Military Brats of Etsy

New Brat on the Blog

2012-02-03T01:20:00.000-05:00

Mariah has recently joined the Military Brats

Street Team on Etsy. Thank you Mariah, for

sharing your Military Brat story with us.

http://www.laydeesjewelrybox.etsy.com

1. What is your first name and where are you originally from?

My name is Mariah and I was born in Canada.

2. What branch of the service was your parent(s) in?

My step‑father is in the Navy.

3. Where did you live while growing up?

Growing up we moved a lot, I've lived in Washington, California, and Texas.

4. How did growing up as a military dependent affect you?

Growing up as a military dependent it was hard because I was young and we were moving every 4 years. It felt like once I made a friend I was getting torn away from them because either their family or my family was moving. Also my step father was gone majority of the time, but that just makes me appreciate the moments we are able to share now.

5. Where do you live now?

Now I live in Houston, Texas.

6. Tell us a little bit about your life now.

My life now is more stable as far as moving goes. I'm a stay at home mother to my 2 year old daughter and I run my Etsy shop when she sleeps.

7. What is the name of your etsy shop and what is your specialty?

My Etsy shop is named Laydee's Jewelry Box, and I specialize in jewelry.

See more of Mariah's jewelry in her etsy shop:
http://www.laydeesjewelrybox.etsy.com

** Don't forget to hit the "tweet" button on the right-hand side of this post, before you leave.

FEATURED ARTIST

2011-11-27T19:52:00.000-05:00

http://www.anhoki.etsy.com/

Check Angela's shop (click on link above) to see all of her shop treasures.

1. Your name and where you live now.

Hi there,

My name is Angela. I live in TN with my husband John and our two girls.

2. What branch of the service was your parent(s) in?

My dad retired in 1994 from the air force after 21 yrs of service.

Pumpkin Vanilla Latte Soy Wax Candle $18.95
3. Where did you live while you were a military dependant?

We moved quite a bit. I was born in Kansas and lived in Texas, England, Nebraska, Italy, New Jersey, Tennessee, Florida, New Mexico and California where my dad retired.

4. When did you become an artist?

I became an artist at age 8 when one of our best Italian friends told me I reminded him of a young and female Michelangelo. I was touched and that changed me forever.

24 Peppermint & Cranberries Incence $4.25

5. What is your primary art form on Etsy? Well.....When I opened my Etsy shop in 2007 its main focus was bath and body. We brought the soap molds and stamps into the mix in '08. I've done a lot of soul searchng and decided to switch my focus to stained glass and all I can create with it in July of this year.

Windchime $95.63

6. Do you have more than one Etsy shop? Please list your other shops.

I do have two shops but the other is inactive.

7. Where else can we find you online?

FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/anhoki

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/anhoki

Personal Blog: http://anhoki.blogspot.com/

Other: http://pinterest.com/anhokis_place/

HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR MEN

2011-11-14T13:02:00.000-05:00

When you see something you like, click on the link to that shop!
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http://www.elephantdreams.etsy.com/

Patriotic Seasons Photo $18

Horse Ahead photo $22.00
8X11

Millenium Kuala Lumpar Petronas Towers photo $18
8 X 10

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http://www.anhoki.etsy.com/

A Whole Lot Of Dude soap $21.00

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http://www.oceanvintage.etsy.com/

Leather Case $46.50

Joe The Genie Of Steel comic book 1950 $50.00

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HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR WOMEN ( $4.00 AND UP )

2011-11-07T11:37:00.001-05:00

See something you like? Click on the link to that shop.
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http://www.anhoki.etsy.com/

Orange Marmalade & Spring Gardens Handmade Soap $12.00

Pumpkin Vanilla Latte Scented Soy Wax Container Candle 12 oz. LIMITED EDITION $18.95

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http://www.oceanvintage.etsy.com/

Vintage Dish Cloth $4.00

Vintage Dish Cloth $7.00

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http://www.oceankisses.etsy.com/

Mosaic Mirror $24.95

Mosaic Bird House $99.00

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http://www.earwingsandthings.etsy.com/

Lampwork Red Christmas package Dangle Earrings $10

Clear Christmas Candy Cane Lampworked Dangling Bead Earrings $10

Blue & White Hand Painted Chinese Porcelain Kitties Earrings $12

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HOLIDAY GIFTS UNDER $25

2011-10-30T15:16:00.001-04:00

CHECK OUT THESE HOLIDAY GIFTS UNDER $25 FROM SOME OF OUR MEMBERS:

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http://www.oceankisses.etsy.com/

mosaic heart frame $24.99

fan pull
leaded textured glass $6.00

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http://www.oceanvintage.etsy.com/

heart-shaped stone cookie mold $4.00

3 vintage dish towels $9.00

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http://www.anhoki.etsy.com/

Scrumptious Essential Lip Butter with Patchouli, Clove, Cedarwood, and Lime Essential Oils $9.95

Pumpkin Vanilla Latte Scented Soy Wax Container Candle 12 oz. LIMITED EDITION $18.95

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AND THE WINNER IS........

2011-10-04T18:32:00.000-04:00

Drum roll please......

The winner of our annual Dandelion Challenge is:

GailsGlassGarden

Congratulations Gail! Please check in at our discussion site on etsy for instructions on claiming your prize!

Thank you to all who participated in our challenge. The voting was extremely close. All of the entries were amazing!

ANNUAL DANDELION CHALLENGE ENTRIES

2011-09-30T10:37:00.003-04:00

The Military Brats Street Team on etsy was challenged to create a work of art with the Dandelion theme. The Dandelion is the "official" flower of the Military Brat.

Check out these fabulous entries and vote for one using the voting box within this post.
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1. http://www.anhoki.etsy.com/
windchime

The dandelion is the flower of the military brat. We brats relate to the dandelion because, like the dandelion, we call nowhere & everywhere home.

These glass wind chimes are my interpretation of the mighty dandelion. Delicate and fragile yet strong and vocal all at once.

At eighteen inches in length and 6.25 inches at the widest point these glass chimes weigh a hefty 2 pounds. Each of the 24 pieces of glass was hand cut (imperfectly of course), ground and drilled by me. The glass is connected by stainless steel wire and accented with wooden beads. The top of the chimes is made from repurposed pine flooring which came to use from a friend. The chain is a combination of stainless steel wire. wooden beads and titanium rings.

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2. http://www.oceankisses.etsy.com/
painted plaque

When I think of the dandelion, I always imagine it in its seed-head form, where with just the right amount of wind the seeds scatter to parts unknown....much like military children who must move with their military parent(s).

I purchased this beveled wooden plaque ( 7 3/4" X 4 3/4" X 3/4"), painted it black, stamped on the mouse design and then hand painted it. The letters spelling out the word "Brat" are made of wood and hand painted, then glued into place. The plaque has a single hanging loop on the back or you could use a plate stand to display it.
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3. http://www.gailsglassgarden.etsy.com/
candle holder

This unique dandelion colored fused glass candle holder measures 3 1/2” in diameter and is 4" at it’s tallest point. This beautiful dandelion candle holder can hold a tealight or a votive candle. It requires two fusings in the kiln, one to melt the glass into the pattern and a second fusing to form the glass into the candle holder.

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4. http://www.creationsanew.etsy.com/
photograph: The Coffee House Dandelion

Dandelions have always been my favorite flowers, I know you say they are a weed, but I disagree! Hubby and I have the same argument every summer; he wants to eradicate every dandelion out of the grass and I want them to grow "wild". We've worked out a compromise; he's allowed to mow them down weekly and I'm allowed to smile, laugh and point when they grow back.

This is a great quote and fits the dandelion perfectly..." Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them. ~A.A. Milne"

Yes, dandelions are my favorite flower; they just add "sunshine to wherever they grow and they leave me with a smile.

My Challenge is named: "The Coffee House Dandelion" I was "practicing" photographying flowers and was shooting roses, carnations and tulips. I also just happened to pick a dandelion out of the yard and put it in a small European Coffee Creamer...My favorite shot from that day!

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5. http://www.elephantdreams.etsy.com/
photograph: Greek dandelion

The dandelion is the official flower of the military brat. This dandelion was found on the Greek Island of Sifnos. Amazingly I had to travel to an exotic Island in order to find this dandelion (my garden has every weed known to mankind except dandelions). I was so excited when I found this one. I was going on about it's origins, etc. when our expedition leader started laughing. Seems the last thing he had done before leaving Seattle for Greece was go to his mother's house and mow down all the dandelions in her lawn. Ah one woman's treasure.......

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PLEASE "TWEET" (see box at right).

VOTING BOX FOR THESE ENTRIES IS AT TOP RIGHT SIDE OF THIS POST. Thank you!

BRAT-TY BLOGGER

2011-08-16T21:02:00.031-04:00

Military Brats Street Team
http://www.creationsanew.blogspot.com/

1. What is your name, your etsy shop(s) name?

Robin Hall - photographer and designer of Creations Anew Photography and Design

2. What is your blog address?

http://www.creationsanew.blogspot.com/

3. Why did you start blogging?

This is actually my 3rd blog. Last year I was working on a 100 photo project and each week I would highlight that week's photo from the project. I'm still trying to get a "handle" on what I'm doing this year. It is already (past) July - IKES!...still no direction.

4. Does your blog have a theme?
*** What do you usually write about on your blog?

Yes, it has a Photography and Design Theme, but sometimes I like to mix it up and throw in other things that I'm doing or into...for instance, it is garden season so I may throw in some pictures of our garden and talk about what I'm growing...etc.

5. Would you like more “followers” on your blog?

Oh sure!

6. Do you promote your etsy shop or anyone elses etsy shop on your blog?

If I'm having a sale or special event in my etsy shop, I'll promote it on my blog. Previously, I have spotlighted other photography artists on my blog.

7. Where else can we find you online?

FaceBook: I'm on FB which I really enjoy doing. It can be addicting.
http://www.facebook.com/CreationsAnewPhotography

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/creationsanew

Other: Flickr - http://www.flickr.com/photos/creationsanew/

All of my photos have some kind of thought or meaning behind them. They were taken during a trip, or a walk, or event, etc. They all have a story. One of my favorite items in my shop would have to be my photographs titled "Expressions". These pieces of art let me incorporate my two favorite elements, photography and design. (Find the "Expressions" photos in Robin's etsy shop by looking for any of the photos with quotes.)

Please support Robin by following her on twitter and tweeting her etsy shop items, connect with her on FaceBook, visit her blog and leave a comment, follow her blog, visit her etsy shop and add her to your circle, visit her Flickr site and leave a comment.
(Note: to leave a comment on blogger, click on comment, write your comment, a new window will pop up asking you to sign in - sign in but do not check the "stay signed in" box. Also, our "followers" lists have disappeared on blogger but sometimes they reappear so look for it if you want to follow a blog. There is a new feature where you can follow through email.)
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Thank you, Robin, for participating in this blog feature and for being so active in our team activities.
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NEW BRAT ON THE BLOG

2011-08-15T19:09:00.000-04:00

A big brat-ty welcome to one of the new members of our etsy Military Brats Street Team:

http://www.julenas1oak.etsy.com/

1.What is your first name & where are you originally from?

I'm Elena J. Abella,from the Philippines.

2.What branch of service was your parent in?

My father is a Master Sergeant from the Philippine Air Force.

3.Where did you live while growing up?

I lived inside a military base called Edwin Andrews Air Base,from birth through college and until I was called to active duty.

4.How did growing up as a military dependent affect you?

Growing up as a military dependent greatly influenced my choice of work after passing the Nurse Licensure Exam. Instead of working abroad,which was the trend then, I opted to enter the Armed Forces thru its Nurse Corps. I guessed I have always wanted to be a Lieutenant and the pride that it will give my father who was still in the service that time.

As a nurse, I genuinely would have loved to serve the men in uniform who were fighting insurgency and insurrectionist (sad to say, the Philippines has them all) but that was not the case for me, as I was assigned to the Presidential Security Group.

5.Where do you live now?

It has been 3 years since we moved out from a military camp.With my husband and our 3 very young kids. We now live in a residential community in the suburbs. It is a middle-class subdivision. I still haven't gained the peace of mind like I had while living inside a military base.Maybe because my entire childhood and most of my adult life I lived inside a peaceful, secured community,where almost everybody is like a family. It's so different now, I miss living in a camp already!

6.Tell us a little about your life now?

So far,I think this is the most challenging and rewarding stage of my life- being a full-time mom! You have to be on your feet even if you don't want to! My goodness, I wasn't warned! After a decade of working as a professional nurse, I thought it's just right that I focus on looking after my brood. I love and cherish everyday I spend with these 3 little angels! It could be chaotic sometimes, but knowing you're making an impact to their lives is enough motivation to be a good person whom they can look up to. Now that we have kids, being a wife is only secondary to being a mom, and in between I have a 'non-profit' business(according to my hubby) to attend to.

7.What is the name of your etsy shop & what is your specialty?

My etsy shop is named Julenas1oak(julena's one of a kind).I make jewelleries such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and a few hair accessories. What makes them different from other jewelries you see is that most of the materials are rare, hard to find vintage components, and reproductions from old toolings sourced from reliable online suppliers. Some of these components are not being made anymore and are very limited so that I only make 1 per design. As they say, "the possibilities are limitless", which is so very true.

It's tedious as most of my materials comes from outside of the country. Most of the time materials requires 2-3 sources to come up with a single piece like a necklace, not that they aren't available in one supplier, but thats just how I want it to be. As much as possible I use natural stone beads and very few glass beads just to add sparkle to a piece.

8.Where else can we find you online?

I maintain a blog at http://www.julena14.blogspot.com and a new twitter account http://twitter.com/#!/VintajjulEna

Okay Brats, let's all go follow Elen on twitter, visit her blog and comment, your circle on etsy.

Thank you Elen, for participating in this new blog feature!

BRAT-TY BLOGGER

2011-08-08T17:11:00.000-04:00

Welcome to our Brat-ty Blogger Feature!
http://karencaseysmith.com/blog/

♥1. What is your name, and your etsy shop(s) name?

My name is Karen Casey-Smith, and my Etsy shop is under the same name, http://www.karencaseysmith.etsy.com/ I'm a fine art photographer who also makes spiritual Flower Mandalas, used to bring uplifting, positive energy into your living space, or work environment.

True - Flower Mandala

♥2. What is your blog address?

Title: photo energy - art that captures you ... http://karencaseysmith.com/blog/

♥3. Why did you start blogging?

Initially I began blogging to show my work, to make connections with people, introduce myself, and tell about what I do. I have to say though, that writing is good for me. Organizing my thoughts enough to write a post really does bring me a lot more clarity, and it's fun to be actively participating.

Presence - Flower Mandala

♥4. Does your blog have a theme? *** What do you usually write about on your blog?

Blogging allows me to make a bit deeper connection with others by telling the story behind an image, insights it has brought me, or by sharing a quote that conveys the feeling of the image. I love sharing things (images, quotes, music, and videos) that are uplifting, spark my enthusiasm, and have been helpful in my life. Sometimes, through my photographs, I enjoy simply showing beautiful, cool, or fun things I see.

Emissary of Light

♥5. Would you like more “followers” on your blog?

For sure, I'd love to have more followers! You can follow through RSS, or sign up by email. Look for the sign up directly under my blog banner, on the right hand side of the page.

Always, My Love

♥6. Do you promote your Etsy shop or anyone elses Etsy shop on your blog?

My Etsy mini is there in the left column, and links to the Etsy shops of some of my friends are on the right column.

Gentle One

♥7. Where else can we find you online?

You can find me at:

        ArtFire _ http://www.artfire.com/users/KarenCaseySmith

        Zibbet_ http://www.zibbet.com/KarenCaseySmith

        Facebook _ http://artist.to/karencaseysmith

        Twitter_ http://twitter.com/karencaseysmith

♥8. Let’s see your favorite item from your shop and tell us something about it.

It's hard to pick a favorite, though one image that continues to have a special place in my heart is Dandelion Clock. The dandelion is just at the right stage to blow for a wish. The colors are a warm memory. It has a lot of significance as well, since dandelions are the official flower for Brats, and the pocket watch you see was my great-grandfather's. I was fortunate to have him around until I was twelve. He was truly the perfect grandfather.

Dandelion Clock

END

FEATURED ARTIST

2011-07-25T20:19:00.000-04:00

Our Featured Artist:

http://www.elephantdreams.etsy.com/

Military Brats FEATURED ARTIST questionaire

1. Your name and where you live now.

Ruth Hill Radcliffe, living in the great state of Texas

2. What branch of the service was your parent(s) in?

My dad was a pilot in the Air Force

3. Where did you live while you were a military dependant?

We lived in Laredo, Texas three times, San Antonio, Texas, Caracas, Venezuela, and Colorado Springs

4. How did being a military dependant affect you?

Being a military brat was a little difficult for me. Our first major posting was when I was 6 years old. We were living in Venezuela at that time and there were 3 revolutions during our three years there. As a very shy and sensitive little girl this was very traumatic, not really knowing what was happening yet seeing violence on the TV and listening to gunfire. I wish that had made me braver, but it didn't.

5. What is your primary art form on Etsy?

At this moment I'm really concentrating on photography, although I am enjoying jewelry making....alas my painting desk is feeling a little neglected.

6. Do you have more than one Etsy shop? Please list your other shops.

1. rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com

elephantdreams.etsy.com

earwingsandthings.etsy.com

7. Where else can we find you online?

RHRadcliffedesigns.blogspot.com

RuthHillRadcliffe@facebook.com

Visit Ruth's shops on etsy:

http://www.rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com/
http://www.elephantdreams.etsy.com/
http://www.earwingsandthings.etsy.com/

BRAT-TY BLOGGER FEATURE

2011-07-17T18:30:00.009-04:00

BRAT-TY BLOGGER
http://www.angieart.blogspot.com/
This is a new feature on our team blog. I hope you enjoy it!

♥1. What is your name, your etsy shop(s) name?

My name is Angee Chase and here are my shops.

AngeeArt.etsy.com ~ Vintage and handmade larger sculptures http://www.angeeart.etsy.com/

WonderWorks.etsy.com ~ Dollhouse Miniatures and Jewelry http://www.wonderworks.etsy.com/

Visualicious.etsy.com ~ Soon to be a How-To DIY shop selling , kits, supplies and .pdf directions for making my edible candy and jewelry "Fruity Cuties." See my sold items for examples.
http://www.visualicious.etsy.com/
HeadlineDesign.etsy.com [letting all the listings run their course to close down. no sales]

********SALE ********I will give a 30% discount to any "Military Brat" who purchases from any of my shops. Before purchasing, convo me with " I'm a Military Brat " in the subject line and let me know what item you want to purchase. I will reduce the price of the item's listing and convo you right back. :D

♥2. What is your blog address?

Title: I N S P I R E D ... A Handmade Production Journal ... http://www.angeeart.blogspot.com/

♥3. Why did you start blogging?

I initially began my main blog to consolidate all of my venues and internet interests in one place. Since I regularly work in multiple mediums, I wanted a place to display everything; new ideas, custom commissions, items not listed in my shops, contest entries, etc. I've used it as a glorified portfolio. This blog stores everything ...so if I go into the archives I can literally see how productive I've been. It keeps track of all my links and most images so if my puter dies...what I have posted online stays alive.

♥4. Does your blog have a theme? *** What do you usually write about on your blog?

I guess the theme would be... Angee's Grand Central Station for everything I'm doing and everywhere I am online. Lately I have been using it (not all that often) to list my newest miniature work. But whenever I come up with something new in any of my shops or on any websites... I report on it to my followers. It affords me the opportunity to share with the visitors "Feedjit" (an app I use that shows visits in realtime) reveals from all over the world!

♥5. Would you like more “followers” on your blog?

I would LOVE more followers if blogger would get on the ball and fix the follower thingie so people could see that I have followers!

♥6. Do you promote your etsy shop or anyone elses etsy shop on your blog?

This blog is all about my creations and what inspires me. Mostly I promote my own items and shop venues. However, when entering contests or other such stuff I usually wind up promoting other blogs & websites.

I also have two other blogs that are primarily intented to feature other shops and artisans. (somewhat in disrepair)

DreamMakerMall.blogspot.com

An idea I had using Etsy minis but after I got it rolling realized you can't make multiple pages that way. They all have to stay on every page. So now it is a very elite venue that features rotating Etsy minis. [Hey this idea would work great to rotate featured weekly/monthly Brat team shops.]

..and this one

Title: Creative-Class ~ ac-Class.blogspot.com

Designed to feature only the best and most awesome artisans, their work, and creative processes. There are some awesome artisans there from last year. I got 5 artisans for free features the first of the year, and none of them ever submitted their info so... there it sits, last post was Dec. of last year! :-)

♥7. Where else can we find you online?

I have a NEW Pro Studio on ArtFire where I have all my eggs in one basket... or carry all of my mediums:

www.artfire.com/users/WonderWorks

and, a new Facebook Fan Page for WonderWorks with an ArtFire landing page Kiosk. This page is geared toward my line of handmade dollhouse miniatures from Etsy and ArtFire.

facebook.com/pages/WonderWorks/130996286980194

My main Facebook Fan Page soon to be mostly about my fine art and sculpture.

facebook.com/AngeeArt

I just recently broke down and signed up on Twitter: twitter.com/AngeeArt

♥8. Let’s see your favorite item from your shop and tell us something about it. You can also share anything you are working on.

Well...I just love miniatures (of course) so, if I had to choose a favorite thing from my shops it would be from my WonderWorks Shop... www.etsy.com/listing/54128796/tiny-gingerbread-house-hand-sculpted

This is the first Whimsy House I made in the series and it's been my best seller. It's great fun making all the tiny candies and parts for it. Thought it was the right size for a dollhouse gingerbread house to sit on a mini dining table, but alas, no! Team MIDS (Miniatures in Dollhouse Scale) informed me it was too big for 1:12" scale. So, it inspired a series of tiny collectibles in their own collector cases. It's still very small... 2" in diameter and stands 2" tall. (looks much bigger in photos than it is in realtime)

I just finished three shrunken heads to go in a miniature witch's house for a customer in Australia, and am currently finishing up some miniature books, a dollhouse world globe, a new design for some tiny flamingo earrings, and adding a gazillion things to my new ArtFire Shop.

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Go visit Angie's blog and don't forget to leave her a comment!
****note: To leave a comment, sign in but do not hit the "stay signed in" button. Blogger has not fixed this problem yet.

FEATURED ARTIST

2011-06-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

http://www.spiderwoodhollow.etsy.com/

Military Brats FEATURED ARTIST questionnaire

1. Your name and where you live now.

       My name is Ellen Nagel. I now live in Washington with   my husband and three cats.

2. What branch of the service was your parent(s) in?

    My father was in the Canadian Air Force for twenty five years. He was an Aircraft Mechanic with the rank of Sargeant.

3. Where did you live while you were a military dependent?

    I lived in many different places while my dad was in the military. We started in Calgary, Alberta then moved to Greenwood, British Columbia then to Penhold, Alberta.

My dad was then stationed overseas for a year. (England, Germany and France) He took our mother and the youngest of the five kids. Two of us were left with relatives in London,Ontario and two in Lousana, Alberta. When they got back from overseas, dad was stationed in Edmonton, Alberta. From there it was Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan then to Namao, Alberta.

I got married to another air force brat the year before Dad retired in 1968.

4. How did being a military dependent affect you?

    As we were always moving, it was hard to make friends so being a large family, all eight of us girls became very close and were friends as well as siblings.

5. What is your primary art form on Etsy?

    My primary art form for over thirty years was stained glass. Two of those years were on Etsy under the name of Lyons Creations. Now, I make spiders, spiders webs and dragonflies in a shop called Spiderwood Hollow which I opened January 2010.

6. Do you have more than one Etsy shop? Please list your other shops.

    I only have the one shop now on Etsy.

These are some photos of Ellen's work:

Visit Ellen's Etsy Shop:
http://www.spiderwoodhollow.etsy.com/

Military Life from a Spouse's Perspective

2011-05-02T08:15:00.005-04:00

The Homefront Team and the Brats are combining efforts to share our experiences with the military lifestyle so that others can fully understand the sense of community, sacrifices, benefits, and expectations we all share as members of a truly unique group of people. Each month we will feature a story shared by a Military Brat Team member, and a story shared by a Homefront Team member.

Military Life…. From a Spouse’s Perspective
Leslie Jeannet of Heart Adrift

Growing up in south Louisiana, I was constantly surrounded by family and friends – you see, southern living has a certain magnetism to it that keeps its natives near and never seems to let them drift far. When my heart became drawn to a “Navy Boy,” as my friends called him, red flags started flying. No one could understand why on earth I’d ever want to be involved with someone outside the city limits, let-alone someone who was in the military!

Fast forward over 4 years later and here I am: far from the family and friends I love dearly, but happier than I could have ever imagined because I married the man who captured my heart. Being a Navy Wife is one of the hardest yet most rewarding aspects of my life. In these short years I’ve learned what it is to trust someone more than I trust myself, gained a love and respect for my country that I’ve only ever heard my grandfather speak of, and realized that communication truly is the key to a successful marriage. Though only partially through his very first deployment, I can tell you one thing: strength finds you when you least expect it.

Thanks Leslie for sharing your story with us! Please visit Leslie's Shop, "Heart Adrift" and her blog, "The Jeanetts"

Also friend her on FB

If you would like to submit a story for this series please contact Jen at Brats of Etsy. You can also find us on Facebook.

2011-04-18T10:15:00.006-04:00

Military Life…. From a Spouse’s Perspective

Milleth Soliza of Fully Hooked

Sometimes someone will say to you “oh you poor dear, deployments must be very hard on you, especially with kids”. Sometimes, they’ll say “thank you for your service”. And then sometimes, they’ll simply give you a look of mixed animosity and pity. And I would respond “yes ma’am, it sure is hard” or “thank you, sir, and you’re welcome”, or simply just smile kindly. Everyone seems to have a premeditated view on military life, and I agree that it’s not the life for everyone. I may sit hours on end, making jewelry and burning the midnight oil, waiting for that phone call to come through from some remote location in the desert, and I may celebrate birthdays, holidays and anniversaries without my other half, but I don’t despair--because this life has allowed me to fall in love with my husband many times over. This life has reinforced every promise we’ve ever made to each other, and truly, I am happy.

Every deployment or separation creates that gut-wrenching anxiety that starts at the pit of your stomach and spreads all over you and seem to settle deep within you, making it hard to breathe… but every return brings with it the euphoria of first love: the butterflies, the tingles, the perpetual pull and gravity of a steadfast commitment made between husband and wife—and I’m okay once more. We knew from the onset that this was going to be hard, but the rewards are great as long as you are committed to making the most of everything. So, hard as military life might be, my smile never wavers.

Thanks Milleth for sharing your story with us! Please stop by visit Milleth's Shop.

If you would like to submit a story for this series please contact Jen at Brats of Etsy You can also find us on FB

Military Life from a Spouse Perspective

2011-03-20T22:02:00.008-04:00

Military Life….
From a spouse’s perspective
Sara of Sara Rubendall Design Studio.

Sarah modeling as "Barbie"

I never in a million years thought I would be a Navy wife. Never. I met my husband when we were in college and shortly after we started dating he told me he had joined the Navy. I was absolutely devastated. The word Navy to me meant that I would never see him. I was a hot mess when he left for bootcamp and I cried until there were no more tears to cry. I thought at the time that nothing good would come of this, but boy was I wrong.

We got married when he took leave from A-school in December of 2004. I was still unsure of this whole Navy thing because we were still apart and I dreamed of the time when we could finally be together. In April I rode a bus down to St. Mary's Georgia where my husband was stationed on his first boat. I was in heaven. I am from a small town in Illinois and to say I hadn't been much of anywhere was an understatement. Now here I was in Georgia where I never thought I would be. Heck, this was the first time I had even seen the ocean! The Navy was turning out to be not so bad after all!

Winning First Kiss

After I survived my first deployment we were transferred to Washington and I was pretty excited. We packed up our stuff and got driving. Once we got to Washington my mouth hung wide open. Never had I seen a mountain either. It was amazing and absolutely beautiful.

Premade Basic Etsy Shop Set

In my experience as a Navy wife I will say that I have gotten to see and do some pretty cool things. How many people can say that they have been on a submarine? I am so lucky to have had these experiences and I thank the Navy for every last one of them :)

Thanks Sara for sharing your story with us!

Please visit Sara's Shop and her blog.

If you would like to submit a story for this series

please contact Jen at Brats of Etsy
You can also find us on FB

Military LIfe From a Spouse Perspective

2011-03-07T08:34:00.008-05:00

Military Life….
From a spouse’s perspective

Crystal of Crystal's Treasures

First off, I’m an AF Wife and proud! My husband was in the military when we met, and we have been together for over 10 years.

One of the hardest things to do is say goodbye to your spouse never knowing if they are coming back, and having to see the heartbreak on your children’s faces as the spouse walks out the door.

I become a single parent each time my spouse deploys. The kids in school and their sports practices, working a regular job, and crafting all take time. Then there is the home life of cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, clothes and necessity shopping, etc. Sometimes it’s so hard, but then you get to talk to your spouse by phone, or Skype, and it all just washes away. Nothing I have to do can be harder than what my spouse does.

Our spouses work every day to give us our freedom, and for that, I thank each and every spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, etc. One of the hardest jobs is to be a military wife, and we are STRONG!

Making jewelry for me has been a large outlet of energy for me. I love it, and it’s not considered a job to me, but a vision of fun. I love creating!

Thank you so much Crystal for sharing your story!

If you would like to submit a story for this series please contact Jen at Brats of Etsy
You can also find us on FB

Military Life from a Brat's Perspective -

2011-03-03T11:43:00.009-05:00

Briana of BP Design

When asked “Where are you from?”, I usually pause. For being from a military family, there is no one place I’m “from“. Every 2 years, Dad would get new orders. We’d pack up and be gone. Each new base would have a whole new set of friends, all with the same story. It is always hard to explain to people what it was like growing up in a military family.

Most of my childhood was spent on the West coast. There were 4 short years that we spent on the East coast. For those 4 years, we resided in North Carolina. I remember riding all over base housing on my bicycle. Learning the lay of the land. There were some woods behind our house that held trails and “hunting” grounds. We played in the Neuse River. A little pill box with the cat on front held (still holds) my collection of shark teeth that washed onto the shore.

It was during those years that I learned to quilt. Dad was in Iraq. Mom and I would go to a fellow military family’s house and meet with other women. Everyone would bring their quilting. I still have the nine patch that I started. It has blue, pink and cream colored squares. This quilt was to be hand-pieced.

One day we went for the quilting and I remember the women sitting around crying and comforting each other. The call had come. We had lost one of our men. Each woman in that room was hurting for the one who had lost their spouse, brother and son. I haven’t picked up the squares since then. Maybe someday I’ll be able to finish it.

As a kid, I knew that Dad was working a lot. I didn’t really understand until that day. He was “working” for our freedom. Our right as a country to choose who leads us. Our right to be individuals. He was willing to give the ultimate sacrifice for me, my siblings, Mom and people he had never met.

Now I am a mother of boys. Whenever we are in town and I see someone in uniform, I point them out to my boys. I tell my boys in a voice for those around to hear, “That man or woman is fighting for your freedom, just like your uncle.”

Please visit Brian at BP Designs

Thanks for spending a few moments with the "Brats of Etsy"
Brats on FB

You See / I See - Trouble Waters

2011-03-03T10:53:00.011-05:00

You See/I See is a brand new weekly feature on the "Brat" Blog. Each Friday, we will ask two brats to find an item from a fellow brats shop that represents their idea of the weekly theme. This week's theme is: Trouble Waters

You See...from Robin of CreationsAnew Photography & Design, - "It is blue/green like water with swirls that remind me of ripples and waves."

Couquette Soap * Lip Balm * Perfume* Sachets * More

I See...from Jen of Cupcakes and Cameos, - " The pendent reminded me of a boat and the chain swirling waters."

Seavbeach Designs

Thank you for visiting with the Military Brats of Etsy!

2011-02-21T09:27:00.005-05:00

Here's her story:

"I have known my husband for half of my life. We met when I was 16, working at a Chinese restaurant. I was looking at colleges to go to, and he was inspired to make more of his life, but had no money for college. He joined the Navy, because they were the only ones that would come to the house and pick him up, since he had no car.

Now to look back, that we hung on to our little teenage romance through 4 years of long distance. I was hooked. I could “see” no other boys around me at college. I was smitten with my sailor. We got married when I was 20.

I've never made a more sound decision in my life! We've been together 16 years now, on this military adventure. When people say "I don't know how you do it?"...I say, "He is worthwhile, I will wait. I'd rather have him some of the time than none of the time." I think most military wives think this way. What better way to show your love and devotion, that is always waiting on the pier, for the love of your life to return."

Deb has been a member of the Homefront Team since 2008 and currently serves as the team's Captain.

You can find Deb here:...
Etsy shop: http://www.LilacAve.etsy.com

My website: http://www.LilacAves.com

My Blog: http://www.LilacAve.webs.com/apps/blog

My Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LilacAve

My Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/LilacAve

If you would like to be featured in this space, just send your info via the "Contact Us" Tab at the top of this blog.

Military Life from a Brat's Perspective: Patti Neal Cadwallader

2011-02-07T09:35:00.002-05:00

The Military Brat Team and the Homefront Team are combining efforts to share our experiences with the military lifestyle so that others can fully understand the sense of community, sacrifices, benefits, and expectations we all share as members of a truly unique group of people. Each month we will feature a story shared by a Military Brat Team member, and a story shared by a Homefront Team member.

This feature is written by Patti Neal Cadwallader,
owner of Ocean Kisses

Military Life….
From a brat’s perspective

There are very few things that will make me scream. In my opinion, snakes and mice, although note worthy, are not scream worthy. Certain insects, however, can solicit a scream from me deserving of any good horror movie. One such insect is the preying mantis. It gets its name from it’s prayer like stance, but this bug is not praying. It is PREY-ing.

Notoriously predatory, it lashes out with its spiked forelegs to snare unsuspecting victims, even having a reputation for sexual cannibalism. It has a segmented body capable of remaining completely still while the arms whip out to grab a living meal. This horrific creature has a triangular face and compound eyes and its head is so flexible, it has a 300 degree panorama of vision. And if all these attributes weren’t enough to give you nightmares for the rest of your life; it is a master of camouflage, rocks side to side in the rhythmic movement of a professional boxer, some species hiss, pinch, bite, and fly. Plus, they can reach up to 12 inches in length and there are 2,200 known species in the mantis family on this planet.

In about 1961, the United States Air Force sent my Dad to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippine Islands. Shortly thereafter, my Mom, my two little sisters, and I followed. We resided in an off-base housing compound for the Americans stationed at Clark. These housing compounds had a guard at the entrance, supposedly for our safety, however those guards could not keep out the incredibly huge bug population that lived with us there. We not only had gigantic flying roaches and preying mantises, there were also rats the size of bunny rabbits and lizards, called geckos, that climbed up the walls in our houses. This was the norm for life on these tropical islands. After awhile you simply got used to sharing your bedroom with geckos, but I never got used to seeing 3 inch long, neon green, swively-headed preying mantises that rivaled any monster Hollywood could come up with in their best scarey movies.

There was a lot to be afraid of in 1961, especially when you’re only 6 years old. Never mind Russia and the Cold War, never mind what was lurking under the bed. For me it was the solitary swaying preying mantis that clung to my bedroom window screen, sizing me up, silently contemplating God only knows what. The 664 days I was in the Philippines, I probably saw a preying mantis every day of my life.

One particular day stands out in my memory. My little sister, Brenda and I were just coming home from our neighbors house. As we crossed the front yard in the steamy afternoon heat, I walked under a low hanging branch of a small tree. We stopped momentarily and faced each other to discuss something of sisterly importance when Brenda, looking up at me, said, “There is something on your head.”

Somewhere, deep in my 6 year-old wisdom, I was sure I had a preying mantis in my hair. “What is it?” I asked trying to sound innocent.. “I don’t know,” Brenda responded, her expression telling me a far different story. “What color is it?” I asked, the terror starting to rise in my throat. “Green,” she stated flatly. I looked at her concerned expression and with my last ray of hope I asked, “Is it a leaf?” At this point, I knew we both knew what was on top of my head, but she wasn’t going to be the one to give me the bad news. “I don’t know,” she said unconvincingly.

Finally gathering a meager amount of courage, I put my hand up to the top of my sweating forehead as if in invitation and in that terrifying moment I felt the insect step on top of my, quivering, hand.
The next few moments are frozen in slow motion memory as I brought my hand down to inspect the inevitable. There was the blood curdling scream.

Brenda probably screamed too, I don’t remember. I flung the monstrous creature from me and my sister and I ran for our lives, our screams echoing behind us as I was sure the enormous mantis was in hot pursuit, its barbed forelegs primed to snag me in midstride. Of course, I would not be able to tell you this story if we hadn’t barely made our escape.

Patti's Shop

Thank you Patti! If you would like to submit a story for this series please contact us ("Contact" tab at the top of the blog) for consideration.

Military Life - "Brats" Perspective

2011-01-15T15:49:00.008-05:00

Military Life ...
From a spouse's perspective

Jeananne Sizemore
owner of Art Whims

A military life is a great one, one that I have known my entire life. As a Navy Brat and now as an Army Wife, I have experienced the ups and downs of what it means to be a member of a military family and that our family includes many more than my genetic relatives. Our family is all of the people in the military and those who have family members and friends in the military.

I am proud that the Homefront Team is now part of that family. The military family mirrors the relationship of siblings; we may fight sometimes, have differences in faith and ideas, but when we really need each other we rally together and stand strong. And with the losses that many of us have faced it still brings tears to my eyes that I have so many people willing to reach out and give me a hug of encouragement when I need one. I am so thankful to be living this military life and would not have it any other way.

Jeananne's Beautiful Items can be Found:
Painted Items
Photography (etsy)
Photography(zazzle)
Facebook
Blog
Twitter

Thanks Jeananne! If you would like to submit a story for this series please contact us ("Contact" tab at the top of the blog) for consideration.

Helping Hand Series - Helpful Hints for Selling on Etsy

2011-01-09T15:24:00.008-05:00

from Anhoki's Place
Artisan Bath and Body

Sellers Helpful Hints
(a new series offering handy hints for selling on etsy)

You have talent. You wouldn't open an etsy shop if you didn't. You've worked hard, made your beautiful items, spent time posting items for sale, and then started to wonder what you can do to make your shop a little better. Hopefully these tips will get you where you want to go, and get your shop some well deserved attention. Just remember, what may work for one seller might not work for another. So just hang in there, try a few new things, and see if that makes a difference.

Topic #1 The best place to start

What should you sell? This may seem like such a simple thing to consider, but those who sell successfully (to inlude shops that are non-etsy) consider this heavily before they put anything up for sale. Think of your shop like a catalogue, or a boutique. If you walked into a shop, and there was little to no variety, would you stay and shop? If you browsed a catalog, and the items didn't work well together, would you seriously consider a purchase from this company? I doubt many people would think it normal to walk into a pet store and find hair accessories in a corner. Or walk into a kitchen store where half a shelf was dedicated to jewelry and think that it belonged. To get a good idea of whether you are off to a good start, perhaps try asking yourself a few questions.

1. What do my items have in common?
2. Do I have enough variety to choose from within my shop? How about within each section?
3. If you looked at a catalog with the same items in your shop, would you be wondering why a certain item is missing? (i.e. looking at a jewelry shop, would you wonder where the matching earrings are for that necklace? How about bracelets?)
4. What could I add/remove that could make my shop more cohesive?

If you have a great tip you would like to share, please email jenharruff@yahoo.com

Military Life - ...From a Brat's Perspective

2011-01-02T16:57:00.007-05:00

Military Life Introduction

Military Life….
From a brat’s perspective

Growing up in the military can be hard. I remember getting so angry and sad when we had to say goodbye to our friends and move all over the country because we had to go where the Navy sent us. We had to endure being a constant new kid at school, and we had to work our way into friendships, only to have them break apart when we moved again in a few years. However, with all of the struggles we went through, we had a great deal to be thankful for. I am the third of five children, so my siblings were my playmates wherever we went. We were great explorers and set out to conquer each and every hiding place, secret path, and playground we could find in the quickest time possible. It was how we claimed our territory and marked it as our home. We grew up for a time in Virginia Beach, Virginia, climbing trees, eating plums from our neighborhood trees, and catching the sweet nectar of the abundant honeysuckle flowers on our tongues. There were marshy ponds nearby where we saw tadpoles grow into frogs, and caught turtles (of course, naming them after the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles). Fireflies danced in the yard, and we held contests to see who could catch the most in a jar with holes in the lid. We caught caterpillars and made them little homes inside shoeboxes full of leaves, only to find that they had fled when we checked on them in the morning.

The best part of growing up as a military brat in Virginia was definitely the military appreciation day held by Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, VA. With five kids and two adults living on a Navy income, we could never afford to go to theme parks, so this was the greatest gift we had to look forward to all year. We got to go on the fourth of July. My mother, older sister, and I were in line for the terrifying rollercoaster, the Loch Ness Monster, and at the last minute my older sister chickened out. So I was trapped into going, pretending I was brave while I shook from head to toe. I kept my eyes shut tight the entire ride. My mom shook me and told me to look up at the fireworks as they exploded above our heads, and I wish I had actually opened them. At least I got to brag about how brave I was when I got off! The whole day was a fantastic experience that made us all feel like a family, and made us all very proud of our status as military brats.

Please take a moment and visit Jen around the web:

Jen Harruff Aprons and Assessories

Follow Jen on Twitter

Jen on Facbook

Creative is the new Black

Angee our Highlighted Brat

2010-07-26T12:30:00.016-04:00

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of it's members to “highlight;” as its Featured Artist/Seller. This month, we are pleased to introduce you to “Angee” of “Angee’s Art Collectibles, Wonder Works and Visualicious.”

Angee Chase - Raised military brat, ex-AF wife, and mother to an AF son.

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

I was raised a military brat, am an ex-Air Force wife and the mother to an Air Force son. I live in Mary Esther, Florida, two blocks from the Gulf, that used to have pristine sugar white sandy beaches until the oil came! :(

I'm so right brained, I lean! My creativity is always flowing, so if I don't do something creative every day I fear I might explode. I have drawn and painted as far back as I can remember. I just practiced, practiced, practiced and after about 20 years, I think one day God looked down on my room full of wadded paper, (mess up, crumple, start again), and realized I might be serious, and decided He would let me have it! The creative gift. Don't know the exact day, but suddenly, I could pretty much draw anything I wanted.

I stumbled on my love for sculpture when polymer clay was invented and I began making mini creations. I won some awards and garnered a little TV exposure which eventually led to selling at local miniature shops.

I have a huge array of artistic creations, in a wide variety of mediums, going on all the time.

Bright and Cheerful Original Art Placemats

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

I'm inspired by everything around me, but mostly nature. I subconsciously notice colors, shapes, movement, patterns, light, and changes everywhere. I love going to hardware stores; the pieces, parts, shapes, fixtures, and etc. make me want to go home and make something.

The oddest things inspire me. A fleamarket sparked my series of bottle paintings; all sold! Prints are now available. I just HAD to see if I could paint clear colored bottles that overlapped and mixed colors when you looked through them. (I used for this idea with my www.AngeeArt.etsy.com banner.)

I pay attention to TV set backgrounds, walls, room decor, patterns, fabric, everything...everywhere. No telling what will spark that next flow of creativity. And of course, vintage toys always motivate my desire to see if I can make tiny versions.

The Mini Ella the Elephant Pull Toy

*What are your favorite materials?

I adore all kinds of clay: homemade bread clay, salt dough, cold porcelain, modeling clay, polymer clay, oriental clay, paper clay, play dough, and even fondant that works like clay. But oddly enough, my favorite materials are jewelry findings and a prized set of expensive Berol fine art colored pencils that in my opinion are the best on earth.

Whimsy Love Treat Shop

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

Non-creative people think I'm as nutty as a fruitcake. On Etsy, I find everyone's as nutty as I am ... in a most wonderful way! We are all similar in our creative processes, and feelings about handmade. And... No matter how much it is not my creative forte, I've learned how important good pics are to successfully sell handmade online.

Garden Glamour SceneScape

*Why should people buy handmade?

How special to purchase real handmade straight from the hands that make them. They're made with love so a part of the artist's personality comes along with them. Every item is uniquely personal to the artist, and many become cherished buyer possessions. As an artist, it's satisfying that someone is admiring a part of you that adorns their home. As a buyer it's such a thrill to know you own something no one else has.

CHOCOLATE LOVES - Nut, Fruit and Fudge Filled Chocolate Fondants

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

More attention to real fine art and distinct categories in this field would be great. I would love to be able to have true separated sections without all my items having to go together. Let me choose what I want to show on my front page and be able to reorganize them when I get the urge. And finally...a little chatbox like FB has to be able to converse with customers and each other.

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I create more things! Last year I decided to mix two of my loves: painting and miniatures so, went to school, and became a nail specialist. Now I can paint tiny pictures and sculpt 3D acrylics on nails. Also working on my new artist/artisan blog "Creative Class" with lots of tutorials, craft lessons, interviews, and tips to encourage creative people. Contact me if you have anything you'd like to contribute.

*Read any good books lately?

The last book I read was how to paint rocks. I'm also in the process of reading the whole dang internet. (ha!) Will let you know when I'm done with that!

Coiled Snake Stone Paperweight

*In ten years I'd like to be?

Still alive, designing crafts for Martha Stewart, and able to take a vacation.

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name/s?

Have a website called WebWrx and love the name. People often say "I wonder how you can make those tiny, little, things." Thus the name. "WonderWorks" where I sell my tiny handsculpted 1:12 scale miniatures.

Angees Art spoke for itself when I opened with only my fine art. I inherited a great amount of antiques and vintage things that belonged to my mother so now it's filled with antique, vintage, and modern (my originals).

I make sculpted bonbons, and invented a tasty, fruity candy that I make edible jewelry from. They are visually beautiful as well as delicious, so I called it " Visualicious" http://www.Visualicious.etsy.com

I may be making some how-to tutorial CDs and downloads for making them, including my secret recipes and all!

Frutie Cutie Strawberry Necklace

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

I artistically need the challenge of change; always searching to create something new. I guess that comes from being a military brat; always moving and looking forward to that next home with new things to see and experience. I have been the entire perimeter of the US, across the width several times, and lived in 8 states. We lived in France for 3 years, Spain for a total of 7 years, and visited Portugal, and England. I went to the Prado and the Lourve museums, where I became enthralled with budding artists that sat
practicing for hours reproducing the paintings of the great masters. I was exposed to the art of other cultures, walked in real castles, and saw wondrous old architecture. I'm sure these experiences became a part of my creative expression; engrained in my artistic soul. Never would've happened without my Dad's AirForce military service.

LINKS:

Fan me on Facebook:
My main blog:

Thanks for spending some time with Angee and the Brat Team.

COLORS OF SUMMER Team Challenge Entries

2010-07-15T12:24:00.012-04:00

Welcome to our Colors of Summer team challenge. Please vote for your favorite entry.

#1

http://beadworksbykerri.etsy.com/

As I was working this piece up, thoughts of the ocean came to mind and I envisioned a mermaid sitting on a rock with the waves rolling in, her tail splashing in the water and this cuff on her wrist. That's what inspired the title to this stunning piece. The cuff features three aqua colored cats eye beads surrounded by petite light amber and chartreuse seed beads. There are five aqua droplets at the base of each cats eye bead as well. Then, cream colored keiski pearls were added between each focal bead setting for added splash. Whether you love the ocean, the beach or just fun in the summer sun, this cuff is sure to put a mile on your face and a skip in your step!

http://rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com/

ABSTRACTION---mosaic celebrating the colors of summer. size: 16" X 12". This mosaic reflects the shimmering colors of the garden in the heat of summer. When I sit outside, colors seem to blend in with each other more as the thermometer rises. Birds, flowers, sky and imagination all connect and reflect the sunshine.

http://karencaseysmith.etsy.com/

In the Herb Garden features the lovely flowers of the chive plant, and wonderful summer light! These come up every year, just a few steps out the back door. It's so nice to have them fresh, and close at hand. Along with beautiful color in the garden, they add so much flavor to food. (Photograph)

http://anhoki.etsy.com/

Deep Sea Salt Bar (Soap)

http://anytimeaccessory.etsy.com/

My Summer Colors Hand Knit Pom Pom Handbag truly represents all that I love about summer. It's fun, vibrant and nostalgic all at the same time. It is my original design and I had so much fun knitting it. It is knit in the round with a large pom pom yarn with variegated colors of yellow, green, blue, orange and pink. The top edge is knit in yellow. The flower in a lovely pink, with a fabric button center. This purse is lined with a fun, coordiating fabric with pink polka dots and is finished off with a magnetic closure and clear acrylic handles. It measures 9 inches high by 14 inches wide.

http://laughingfridge.etsy.com/

When I think of the colors of summer, I always end up with sunshine and brightness in my head! I designed and created this polymer clay sun magnet, poked holes in it for a bit of interest, and painted it with acrylics. I used summery colors of orange, red and yellow, with dots of gold and magenta. It's been painted with several coats of varnish to seal in the colors, and a strong round magnet is securely attached.

http://skinbodyworks.etsy.com/

When I think of Summer especially the 'Colors of Summer' the first thing that comes to my mind is Tomato's!
YES! I know I am weird, but nothing sounds better to me than a vine ripened Tomato!

I recreated that memorable color in a Lipstick, a color that can be worn during the heat of Summer or the Freeze of Winter. A Classy color that is warm and neutral. A wonderful color that really brings memories of picking fresh vine ripened tomato's in the garden with Mom and Grandma.

2010-07-09T12:41:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday July Brats

7-2 buttfreckle
7-7 beadstoo
7-7 Thetatteredgypsy
7-13 modcustomjewelry
7-13 teristreasure
7-17 CraftBonanza
7-17 Odannysgirl
7-19 scooyouphotography
7-19 designsbymariejulie

Happy Birthday to our June Military Brats

2010-06-06T09:54:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday

6-2 RibbonalityBySushi
6-5 glass dancer
6-6 FroggyCreations
6-20 designsviadumas

May's Military Brat - "Something Aloha"

2010-05-10T14:40:00.008-04:00

Hawaiian Plumeria Cluster

Aloha!...

... from “Something Aloha,” this month’s Bratty Featured Artist. Her shop is located in Hawaii where she creates flowers made from air dry clay. Her items range from leis for your pets to Swarovski Jewelry…please visit her shop for......Something Aloha

Small Hawaiian Pet Lei

Sea Grape Pet Lei

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a busy working mother of two active boys...one of them is very hairy with 4 legs! My free time is spent either exercising or working on crafts. I love to craft and enjoy putting my creative side to use...it's also a stress reliever for me!

Hawaiian Plumeria Glass Ornament

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?
My ideas are inspired by the beauty of Hawaii.

*What are your favorite materials?

I love working with sea shells…I think they are so beautiful

Wooden Flower Arrangement Box

*What has been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?
To constantly be creative and come up with new ideas…it keeps your store fresh and encourages frequent visits.

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?
I can't think of anything specific…but anything to help drive up sales would be nice! :)

*Why should people buy handmade?
Handmade makes a statement. Handmade is very personal.

Swarovski Pear Key Chain with Cross

Lava Rock Bracelet with matching Sterling Silver Starfish Earings

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I work full-time as an analyst at a health insurance company.

*Read any good books lately?
The latest book that I read (Alicia Silverstone's The Kind Diet) has made a huge impact on my life. Prior to reading her book, I was treating my body terribly by eating a lot of rich and high in fat foods…I was gaining weight and having a lot of migraine attacks. The book encouraged me to try eating vegan of which I did for 8 weeks and in that time I lost 7 pounds, two sizes, had my good cholesterol jump up to 74, and reduced my migraine attacks to about once a month. Eating vegan has definitely had its challenges and is extremely hard to do...especially when a child is involved. I recently made the decision to eat more vegetarian by adding egg and fish to my diet...I still do not eat dairy products or meat (except once a month when I let myself have a free pass to eat anything). I have never read a book where it has had an impact on my life as this one did.

*In ten years I'd like to be?
Married with more children and working for myself full time. I will be getting married next year and we plan on starting a family as soon as possible!

Single Pink Rose

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

In growing up in Hawaii, the Aloha Spirit is everywhere and you can't help but embrace it. So when thinking of a name it was only natural to call my shop Something Aloha.

Hawaiian Pink Plumeria Flower in Clay

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

I would not have experienced Hawaii as I did if it were not for the military. My dad was stationed at Hickam Air Force Base when I was a young child…he retired and we stayed in Hawaii. While living on Hickam, I was introduced to the Hawaiian culture and danced hula. Hula introduced me to the different Hawaiian flowers because we would wear them at performances. Hickam is also where I began a fondness to seashells. Our backyard was the beach and I would walk along it every day collecting shells. All the beautiful things I was exposed to are now seen in my crafting.

Dog Clay Sculpture

Thank you for spending a few minutes with one of our Favorite Brats and stop by and visit her FB Fan Page and her Twitter.

Aloha!

Happy May Birthday Brats

2010-05-04T12:19:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday to all our bratty May birthdays

MAY
5-1 GrumpyTomsAttic
5-4 Beryltheperil
5-14 Kerleyskreations
5-14 Ihearthandmadegoods
5-19 Seavbeach
5-21 Anhoki
5-26 BeccasBeadCreations
5-26 mash84

April's Bratty Feature - Scoo You Photogrpahy

2010-04-18T18:29:00.024-04:00

Each month, the Brat Team highlights one of it's members. This month it is my pleasure to introduce to you Jeff of ScooYou Photography

Waiting for Wind

"The dandelion is the official flower on the Military Brat"

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a somewhat mellow, sarcastic (good natured), and weird/humorous Air Force Brat. My father is a retired Colonel (did his 30 years and had to retire…Apparently, the Air Force doesn’t want you around after 30 years if you’re a Colonel. I am married to a fellow Etsy member (although not a Brat…by our definition…but…), Souly Stones, who make jewelry. We have a six year old son, Apollo, who has just started taking pictures and wants his own shop on Etsy…hope there’s a market for train and alphabet photography. At any rate, I started getting into photography (as far as talking pictures) since I got my first camera, a Kodak Instamatic, when I was around 10 years old. I didn’t really get into it until I received my first SLR (Single Lens Reflex…the cameras that have detachable lens that when you look through the viewfinder, you’re looking through the lens…hence SLR) in 1995, soon after moving to Portland Oregon, where I still live. I have taken pictures of bands in concert, family portraits, and group pictures, but my true passion is just photography…whatever I think will look cool. I joined Etsy on June 1, 2008…Actually, I wanted to join but was too lazy to do anything. My wife, who has been with Etsy since 2006, forced my hand and signed up for a shop for me and began listing things without my knowledge, so any of the photos that have very little description are ones that she listed.

Ning, Ning, Ning, Nin, Nin, Ni,Ni

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?
I am inspired by whatever I feel looks cool at the time. I’m very visual. I have always loved pictures and particularly love the book The Best of LIFE (circa 1973), which is a collection of the photography that appeared in LIFE magazine from its beginnings to, at least, 1973. My parents had that book, and I have occupied what adds up to be many days worth of absorbing the content of that book. I would just stare at many of those pictures and study them and feel the emotion that it evoked in me and feel that my photography should evoke strong emotions in order for me to consider it good.

Fish Head on the Beach

*What are your favorite materials?

I use a Sony Alpha 100 digital SLR camera, Minolta HTSi Plus film SLR camera, Pentax P30-t manual focus SLR, a Holga medium format camera, various cameras from Lomography, and a pin-hole camera or two.

Fog on a Winter Morning

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?
My wife told me to join groups of those that have a shared interest or characteristic…like being a Military Brat, for instance.

*Why should people buy handmade?
You can be assured that some seven year old in a third world country did not have to get up at 3AM, work at a sweat shop for 14 hours, getting paid a few cents per day to make items for some faceless corporation that sells it to the public at large. Also, handmade stuff is unique, perfectly imperfect, and cool (for the most part).

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?
An option (and maybe this does exist…I’ve had so few sales…relatively) that allows people to buy without joining anything…That’s a turn off for some (me included) when you just want to buy something. Also, I would like to see more features on photographers

Old City Jail

(does not have a link)

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I work in the Social Service field for Janus Youth Programs, Inc. in Portland OR. I help young men who are on parole with the Oregon Youth Authority become job ready and obtain/maintain employment and complete high school or begin college. My dad told me that I was taking a vow of poverty by working this field. Apparently, there is little money available to those who help the pariahs of society.

Raindrop Leaf

*Read any good books lately?

I hate to admit it, but I not much of a reader. I do enjoy books, but am lazy when it comes to reading books. However, the most recent book that I read was “Never Die Easy” Walter Payton’s (former football great with Chicago Bears) autobiography.

Skyscrapers Reflections

*In ten years I'd like to be?
6 foot 3….but…Since I’m only 5 foot 10 and fully grown, I think I’ll mention something a little more realistic…In ten years I’d like to be a full time photographer and no longer involved in Social Service (had to leave due to burnout). I would like to be working for National Geographic, Time, etc. and have my own gallery somewhere.

Shiny Brew
(does not have a link)

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

My nickname in high school was Scoo (because my last name is Scooler…makes sense, huh?). Later on, when I was creating my first email address, I was trying to think of something creative and “clever”. I came up with scoo_u. Moving forward a bit…I used to take pictures of this local band, Freight Train Casanova, during their shows. One of the band members created a littler flyer for the band and put Scooyou Photography down for the photo credits….Needless to say….Okay, I’ll say anyway…The name stuck….If I were to create another shop, I think I’ll call it Scooler Than You Photography….

Autumn Velvet

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?
I do not consider myself to be a Crafter because I don’t really “MAKE” anything except taking photos. That is not very labor intensive. I’m more of an Artist, which I do consider a subset of Crafter…or maybe it’s the other way around…oh well. I take pictures, fix them up with Photoshop and other programs, and list them on my shop with Etsy. I am an Air Force Brat, as I mentioned earlier. From there, I joined Military Brats and POE (Photographers of Etsy) teams. There is the connection. However, I stated earlier that I am not a Crafter, but I have been collecting old wooden window frames, painting them, and putting gobs and gobs of polyurethane for a good shine, and just do stuff to convert them into picture frames and hope to list them on my shop very soon….stay tuned….So, I guess I’m a crafty bratty artistic photographer.

The Future is Now

Thank you for spending a few moments getting to know Jeff and his wonderful photography.
You can find and view Jeff's Photography for sale at Scoo You Photography on Etsy . Please visit Jeff's FB Fan Page and view many of his photos at Scoo You Photography on Flickr.

2010-04-12T12:42:00.003-04:00

Thank you to everyone who placed an entry in our annual Dandelion Challenge. The voting was REALLY close this year. Here is our winner:

http://seavbeach.etsy.com/ FINE SILVER PENDANT Made from an imprint of a real dandelion, this delicate Fine Silver Pendant and Necklace can almost make a Wish!

2010-04-08T20:41:00.006-04:00

Welcome to the Military Brats Street Team’s annual Dandelion Challenge. Team members were challenged to interpret the dandelion in some form of art. The dandelion is the official flower of the Military Brat and April is the month of the military child.. Celebrate with us by voting for your favorite. ONLY ONE VOTE per computer will be recorded.

http://rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com/ WIRE WRAPPED WREATH
My entry to the dandelion challenge is a wire wrapped wreath 4.5" in diameter.It is wrapped with silver, copper and brass wires and features glass beads both seed beeds and other glass shaped beads, pearls, waxed linen woven into the wire. The top of the wreath spotlights a heart shaped focal bead. "Dandelion in the round" was a work of love, in more ways than one.

http://seavbeach.etsy.com/ FINE SILVER PENDANT
Made from an imprint of a real dandelion, this delicate Fine Silver Pendant and Necklace can almost make a Wish!

http://karencaseysmith.etsy.com/ PHOTOGRAPH 8X8 PRINT
Created to celebrate Military Brats everywhere. Their flower is the dandelion. I'm not sure this is official, but "Bloom Where You’re Planted" is a good motto for Brat's, because they do. :)I’ve read that experts say that military children are well-rounded, culturally aware and tolerant, and extremely resilient. This does seem so true of the brats I’ve met. :)

http://anhoki.etsy.com/ DANDELION PEAR SOAP
Dandelion Pear is made with olive, coconut, palm and canola oils along with sodium hydroxide, fragrance and micas. Dandelions, wild flowers, rich green tea, fresh juicy pear, and soothing aloe vera make up this refreshing and VERY refreshing soap.

April Birthday Babies

2010-04-03T10:08:00.003-04:00

Happy birthday to our April babies.

APRIL
4-15 little dearies
4-19 lilysgoatsoap
4-19 OddlyEnchanting.(Brenna)

2010-03-17T14:08:00.001-04:00

MARCH BIRTHDAY BABIES
3-1 Blueplatevintage
3-3 MyInnerPrincess
3-5 PaperArtPlus
3-8 BoompsaDaisy
3-12 BPDesign
3-11 lyonscreations
3-22 Susansee

March's Featured Artist/Seller

2010-03-13T12:22:00.010-05:00

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of it's members to “highlight;” as it’s Featured Artist/Seller. This month, we are pleased to introduce you to “Anise” of Seavbeach Designs. http://www.seavbeach.etsy.com/

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in a rural town in NC. My mom and I were brought here from California to live where my step dad grew up. Dad was always tinkering in the shop and I was always helping, wearing coveralls with pockets full of things. I learned to be an individual and got my artistic ablilities from the both of them. Mom loved to draw and dad put things together, for me that was the best combination.
Today, I live in a small coastal town that is just blooming with artistic people. I love collecting things on the beach, walking the dogs and socializing with friends.

Quartz Beach Stone Pendent

What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

My inspiration comes from many places, for example, right now I'm looking out the window watching the dogs play under a beautiful tree stripped of all its leaves... And I’m thinking to myself, how can I recreate this moment?
I usually daydream and then sketch out my ideas: nature, such as leaves, vines, patterns, all give me creative ideas.

Fall Leaves - Sterling Silver Wired Earrings

What are your favorite materials?

My absolute favorite materials are Silver and Copper. I love forging, bending, drilling and making things shiny. My newest and most enjoyable medium so far would have to be PMC: Precious Metal Clay. I've worked with Silver Clay and can't wait to work with Copper Clay.

A Rose is a Rose - Hand sculpted fine silver rosebud

What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

Patience! Not all shops start out full force; although I've only had one sale, I am learning more everyday. Being self taught and having your own business isn't easy, I know if I have any questions, there are fellow Etsians out who are willing to answer them. I have met some wonderful people on Etsy by staying active in forums.

Bottle Top - Sea Glass Pendent

Why should people buy handmade?

I think about this question often. There is so much put into something handmade, far more than the average person might think. For one thing, when you buy handmade 9 times out of 10 going to be one of a kind. I like the idea that no one will have the "exact" same thing that I have. It always puts a smile on my face when I order something from Etsy and I get my item and someone has put their personality in packaging or boxing. That is the personal side of Etsy and what makes buying handmade so great!

Shell Button Charm Bracelet

What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I would like to see a privacy feature for our own purchases. I have family members that frequently look at my shop and I wouldn't want them to see a gift that I’ve recently just purchased for them.

Adjustable Recycled Copper Bracelet

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am currently out of work, and have been focusing on getting my Hand Crafted Jewelry out there. I have always worked with the public and probably always will; I love the interaction with people.

Read any good books lately?

Cookbooks.. I love them! I read them like books, lol! I like the Vintage Cookbooks the best, and they have to have pictures so I know what its supposed to look like when its done.

I Heart U - Amber Glass Dangles

In ten years, where would you like to be?

Still creating, successful with a husband and maybe children.

How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

Its my name combined with the beach; since, I live at the beach.

Gears - Inspired by Habitat for Humanity

What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

Well, being a brat teaches you discipline from an early age. I think that with my art it has taught me to reach to a higher boundary than I would have if I hadn't had my dad in the Military. He was very proud of who he was and this country and I am glad that he instilled it in me as well.

　
Thank you for spending time with our Featured Artist/Seller and please stop by and visit her blog http://www.seavbeach.blogspot.com/ and her etsy shop http://www.seavbeach.etsy.com/

Robin

February's Feature Artist - Lindsey

2010-02-06T18:50:00.013-05:00

The Brat team would like to introduce to you, February's Artist/Seller of the month;

Lindsey of

Swimming In Fountains ,

*Baubles for Everyday Wear*

Wire & Twisted,

*Wire Wrapped Creations*

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

After eight years in the Navy, I landed in Central Massachusetts with my dog. My last tour was teaching NROTC Midshipmen at the College of the Holy Cross. I was lucky enough to find another job in the same town and have been working as an Engineering Product Manager for just over three years now. Although I enjoy my day job, I needed a creative outlet. So when my sister suggested I stop by one of the wholesale bead shows that are abundant in my area, I did and was hooked. I think the most enjoyable part of my jewelry business is buying the stones. I love learning about them - where they came, their chemical make-up, what stones are associated with others. I never knew there were so many types of natural stones out there until I started working with them; and the natural colors of them never cease to amaze me.

Aventurine Wrapped Pendent

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

An idea can start from one simple stone. Once the seed of an idea is planted, I become obsessed with finding the best combination of colors and textures. The most frustrating thing, and I’m sure we have all been there, is knowing exactly what you are looking for, and not being able to find it. I think most of my ideas center around color, shape and texture. It may take me a few tries to find the right combination that makes the finished piece pleasing to my eye.

Snail in Turquoise Necklace

*What are your favorite materials?

Natural stones combined with colorful crystals. I work mainly with sterling silver, although sometimes I think the design calls for gold. I use a lot of wire and I enjoy finding what new ways I can securely wrap something. (I haven’t stepped into the realm of soldering my jewelry, but someday I will…

Amy Hoops

Amethyst Sun Necklace

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

-Keep working at finding your niche. Don’t try to make it all – keep your designs within a certain style so your customers can recognize you. -Treat your customers as you would like to be treated – communicate, communicate, communicate!-Market yourself .-Don’t expect immediate success on Etsy. You have to work at it almost every day.I think that my shops are still in flux, but I can look at other Etsy success stories and work toward making one of my own. My shop has come a long way from where it began, and I am still trying to improve it. My ultimate goal is to be recognized by the Etsy community (and I don’t just mean ‘getting on the front page’. I recognize other seller’s styles when I see something in the Time Machine or in a search. I’d ultimately like to be recognized by buyers and sellers that same way.

Garnet Twist Earrings

*Why should people buy handmade?

I take a lot of pride and responsibility in the pieces that I sell. I want the people who buy my pieces to be as happy about them as I was making them. You just don’t get that level of commitment when buying something that was mass produced. I want to support the other artists who feel the same way I do. There are so many creative people in this world; why would I limit myself to a brand name just so the person next to me knows who I am wearing? I would miss so much if I did that…

Lacy Leaf Earrings

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

This is a tough question. I think that Etsy does a great job at making necessary changes when we tell them what works and what doesn’t. I think Etsy is as useful as we choose to make it. So, I can’t think of any changes that I’d like to see from them at the moment.I think a better question for me is “what would you like to see happen with your jewelry business?”
Festival season is right around the corner and I am very excited. This will be my second full summer of festival season and I have my schedule pretty well solidified. The jewelry market really is a tough one, so I’ve been making sure my pictures accurately represent my jewelry. It helps both on Etsy (yet another lesson learned from fellow Etsians) and so I have great portfolio to submit to the juries. Here’s hoping to a successful 2010! Before I get too wrapped up in festival season, I’d like to redefine myself at home by creating a studio for myself in the house. Right now, my studio is the dining room table. I am organized to an extent, but I want to be able to easily see the materials that I already have. So, my next goal is to change out my den into a sort of studio for my jewelry making. I love rearranging, so to pull apart the den and make it functional is going to be A LOT of fun for me!

Simply Sterling Hoop Earrings

Autumn Pearls

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I am an Engineering Product Manager by day. It allowed me to get my jewelry business up and running and now supports my jewelry habit. I don’t expect to make millions in my jewelry business. I will continue to create new pieces as long as I enjoy what I am doing.

Pretty Purple Hemetite Bracelet

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am an Engineering Product Manager by day. It allowed me to get my jewelry business up and running and now supports my jewelry habit. I don’t expect to make millions in my jewelry business. I will continue to create new pieces as long as I enjoy what I am doing.

Fluorite Dangle Earrings

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Wood Jasper and Gold Leaf Necklace

*Read any good books lately?

I am always in the middle of a book. Right now, I am reading one by Barbara Kingsolver – Pigs in Heaven. She has written some favorites, Poisonwood Bible and Prodigal Summer. I’ve been waiting for Diane Gabaldon to finish the 6th book of her Outlander series, though. She is a great story teller and is very well written. My mom is reading it now and will hand it over to me when she is done. They are the types of books that I just can’t put down, even when I know I should be doing other things.

Cherry and Sterling Tear Pendent

*Where would you like to be in ten years?

In ten years, I would like to be traveling around the country to various shows, selling my jewelry. I have found that I really enjoy being face-to-face with my customers. I never thought that I would love that side of my jewelry business, but I look forward to the Festival Season every year! In all practicality, though, I will probably be doing the same thing I am doing now – selling at shows and online all year, while working as an Engineer during the day. I enjoy the way it has all started to work out.

Simply Pearls in Olive

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

Years ago, on hot summer nights, I used to drag friends to actually go swimming in fountains– back at the University of Michigan or in Charleston where I was stationed for a little while. I threw around a few different ideas for a shop name, but once I came up with Swimming In Fountains, I liked how it rolled off the tongue. I was a little concerned that it didn’t have anything to do with jewelry, but I kept it anyway… if people find me and like my pieces, they will come again.

When I started selling jewelry, I was making more standard, simple pieces (stranded or linked), still focusing on color, texture and finding fantastic stones. When I starting making my wire wrapped pieces, I noticed they really showed my personality. I loved how they were turning out! I saw that other Brats had multiple shops, so I thought I’d open another one specifically to showcase my wire wrapped pieces. I came up with the name, Wired and Twisted, as a play on words. In addition to describing my wire wrapped style, it expresses how I feel sometimes, especially after one to many cups of coffee. I still love making my original pieces, so I won’t be phasing those out. I think my customers appreciate my original jewelry as well as my new designs.

Smokey Mauve and Gold Crystal Earrings

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?
I think that putting your artwork out there on the web (or in a craft show) takes a lot of courage, forward thinking, and self esteem. Although he never specifically said it, through his involvement in the Marine Corps and his personality, my father taught me not to be afraid of anything and to go after what I wanted. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people; I speak my opinion; I take pride, whether in my country or myself and my work. I learned all those traits through my military upbringing and I believe they are necessary traits of being a successful crafter. My father always did it all… why shouldn’t I?

I have a Facebook page under ‘Jewelry Designs by Lindsay.’
Everyone on facebook should become a fan! I will be running a special while being a Brat Feature. I run other specials throughout the year, so anyone can follow my shop through the page to keep updated on new listings, sales and promotions. I have all my past pieces in albums also, so if you see something that is not in my shop, let me know and can wrap up another one. My show schedule listed on the Facebook page, too. Most of them are in the New England area, but I sell at a festival in my hometown of Canandaigua, NY. I would love to meet any fellow Brats or Etsians that are in the area!

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!

February Birthday Babies

2010-02-02T00:55:00.001-05:00

FEBRUARY
2-1 2PureJoy
2-6 ForYourJourney
2-7 oceankisses
2-7 comfuzzled
2-16 LizEdgar
2-21 BirdcageBalcony
2-21 SueLaing
2-27 earthseessencellc
2-27 MichelesEssentials
2-27 thrudkukinglassbags
hunnelle

2010-01-01T18:21:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday New Year Babies

1-7 StrictlyWholesale
1-7 Modadesigns
1-7 CheapBoutique
1-7 JourneyInJewellery
1-8 jenharruff
1-27 Yodamoon

Happy Birthday December babies

2009-12-06T21:32:00.002-05:00

DECEMBER
12-9 SuperiorStones
12-9 MoonMystic
12-18 SexyGeekWithAttitude
12-27 LocoBead
12-18 MyDarlingBaby
12-31 LaughingFridge

FeaturedArtist for November - Penguinetta Afghans

2009-11-09T08:22:00.005-05:00

"Winters are Cold and Afghans are Warm"

Quote from Valarie

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of it's members to “highlight;” this week, we are pleased to introduce our FEATURED ARTIST–SELLER…Valarie of Penguinetta Afghans.

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a Navy brat, the oldest of six. My Dad retired when I was 14 and we moved back to his hometown in Mn. It was sever culture shock to say the least.

*What is the first thing you can remember making by hand?

How and why did you make it?The first thing I made was a macramé belt. I was in the 7th grade and got a macramé’ belt kit for Christmas; I was hooked! Before that I had attempted to make things but never finished a project.*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?A lot of my inspiration comes from need; winters are cold in Mn and afghans are warm.

Valentine Red Mittens with Ribbed Cuffs

My ideas come from everywhere: a pattern I may see or something someone says will trigger and idea.

*What are your favorite materials?

My favorite material is whatever I can find. When people know you like to craft they tend to give you things like, left over yarn or an old sweater that they think you can unravel and make something new with. I like the challenge of making something from nothing.

My Favorite Baby Afghan in Yellow

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

I think the most valuable lesson I have learned so far is that we are all connected. The brat team is great at supporting each other and rallying around to lend an extra hand when another is learning.
I opened my shop when I was jobless, homeless and depressed; For the first time in my life, I was very far away physically and emotionally from family. I felt an instant connection with the brats and realized that I wasn’t any worse off than anyone else and I was a lot more fortunate than many.

Lacy Knit Baby Blue Afghan

*Why should people buy handmade?

A handmade item is unique. Why have something that is exactly like something that someone else has?

Boy Friend Scarf

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I think it would be helpful if each new Etsy member was offered a mentor. There are so many tricks to getting your shop set up and things that you only learn once you’ve been around etsy for awhile

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am the Safety and Training Coordinator for Johnson County Public Works in Olathe, Kansas. I began working in Sept after being unemployed for 10 months.

Tartan Plaid Afghan

*Read any good books lately?

Baking cakes in Kidcaria.

*In ten years I'd like to be?

Settled and looking forward to retirement.

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

My birth-mom is always calling me Penguinetta because I, the girl from Mn, is always cold. My sweetheart came up with Penguinetta’s Afghans.

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

Moving all the time was difficult. I was shy and my mom was a bit over protective. I turned to crafts to fill my time. It gave me a sense of purpose to create things for people.

You can find me at http://PenguinettaAfghans.etsy.com and
http://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehannon

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!
Robin

2009-11-01T09:24:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday November Babies

NOVEMBER
11-8 ShinyAdornments
11-11 lavenderlizard
11-11 lavenderladybug
11-16 HippoRiceBall
11-18 BeadworksbyKerri
11-26 elephantdreams
11-26 earwingsandthings
11-26 rhradcliffedesigns
11-30 HFGifts (Chelsea)

Our Fall Challenge WINNER !!!

2009-10-21T19:39:00.002-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FALL CHALLENGE WINNER http://www.beadworksbykerri.etsy.com/

Thankyou to all who entered our annual Fall Challenge.

BRAT-TY FALL CHALLENGE

2009-10-17T16:20:00.008-04:00

http://gingerbabies.etsy.com
Polymer Clay Ghost 2" X 2 1/4" X 2 1/2"

http://elephantdreams.etsy.com
pumpkin nightlight 8 X 10 photograph

http://LaughingFridge.etsy.com
Autumn Leaves magnet 2.5" X 3.5"

http://Anhoki.etsy.com

Autumn Woods Cold Press Soap

http://SueLaing.etsy.com

http://BeadworksbyKerri.etsy.com

PJ Bracelet

Bratty Salute to our Featured Seller - Shirly of Paper Art Plus

2009-10-03T12:44:00.006-04:00

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

I'm a misplaced Brit...and Brat..I live in Alaska with my hubby and we are lucky to have one of our children live up here too, so I have grandchildren to spoil on a regular basis! We came up here in 1987 when my hubby was still USAF. He retired here and then he went to work for the State of Alaska. He is now retired, so we waddle along together all day! My Dad was in the Royal Navy and we traveled to various parts of Great Britain and Malta before he left the service.

Coaster - Flower Collage

*What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

I was around 7 years old and it was an apron. It was a school project and we were told to bring in some material to make it. It was supposed to be a surprise so I didn't tell my parents about it and a few months later, when my Dad went to put on his summer PJ’s, my parents discovered where I had got the material; I had cut off one of his PJ bottom's legs!! My parents thought the material had looked familiar! Hahaha!!

Double Fleece Blanket - Dinosaurs Walking

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

Nature! I also have a small row of artwork hanging from a ceiling beam in my craft room from friends; these give me inspiration. Other ideas come from groups I’m involved with or surfing the web. I never copy anything...my mind just wanders off from what I’ve see and then I get creative for myself!

Small Books Flower Wrap

*What are your favorite materials?

Anything paper related! I also love to sew!~

Framed Paper Quill “Lilly of the Valley

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

Never to give up!*

*Why should people buy handmade?

It's a so much more personal ..and usually unique!

Coaster - Kimono Warrior

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

An easier way around the forums!

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am an avid 'farmer' on Facebook, but I also love to do real gardening. I email friends, enjoy my grandchildren and I like to go camping in the motor home!

http://www.facebook.com/A.Brit.in.Alaska

*Read any good books lately?

I love Margaret George and am eagerly awaiting a new book from her. I am an avid reader of historical fiction; the ones that really get into the history of the period but with some romance...especially fond of the Tudor period!

http://www.margaretgeorge.com/books/books.asp

*In ten years I'd like to be?

Healthy, wealthy and wise!! Wise would be good!!

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

I mostly work with paper related products and kept thinking 'hmm, “paper art plus, paper art plus”, when I was trying to think of a name. It sounded great and I thought that's it...it'll do!

Miniature Frame - Paper Quill Flower - Foxgloves

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

Crafting can easily travel with you...and it's a great way to make new friends...perfect for military families on the move!

Six Note Cards and Portfolio Set - Autumn Leaves

　
Please visit Shirley’s Blog, “ A Brit in Alaska” at

http://abritinalaska.blogspot.com/

and stop by her Facebook Page and friend her - http://www.facebook.com/A.Brit.in.Alaska
　
Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!

Happy Birthday October Babies

2009-10-02T08:55:00.001-04:00

10-1 LabMade
10-6 littlepinkplum
10-6 IndigobayDesigns
10-6 terryann
10-31 blackbird72
10-31 deirdreryanphoto
10-31 Deirdresdesigns

Happy Birthday September Brats

2009-08-31T13:07:00.001-04:00

SEPTEMBER
9-9 LaughingFridge (John)
9-12 AngeeArt
9-12 PenguinettaAfghans
9-12 VisualiciousGourmet
9-12 WonderWorks
9-13 mrmoonsoriginals
9-13 Tlsexton0913
9-21 MotherofJackals

September's Brat Feature - Jean of Moon Mystic's Handcrafted Gemstone Jewelry

2009-08-30T16:16:00.008-04:00

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of our members to “highlight.” This month, we are pleased to introduce our FEATURED ARTIST – SELLER… Jean of

Mystic Moon Handcraft GemStone Jewelry

Superior Stones

Silver Smack

*Tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Jean and I live on the Western end of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in “Big Snow Country“ with my husband and four-year-old son and eight-year-old daughter. I also teach junior high and high school English.

“Aqua Sea Glass Pearl Pendant Necklace”

*What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

When I was younger, I loved these little fuzzy creatures called Weeples and you could buy them, of course, but they were really hard to find, so I started making my own. I bought little colored puff balls, and little google eyes, and little antennae, and little felt feet. I even started selling them in school for a quarter a piece.

“Green Amethyst Prasiolite Tsavorite Garnet Pearl Iolite Sterling Silver Cluster Pearl Pendant Necklace”

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

Lately, a lot of my ideas come from nature. In my shop, SuperiorStones.etsy.com, I use a lot of natural beach stones, so I try to keep them as natural as possible and just give them a little accent. In my shop, SilverSmack.etsy.com, I do birds nests, pea pods, and many leaf inspired pieces.

“Seafoam Green Agate Smokey Quartz Woven Herringbone Wire Wrapped Silver Necklace”

*What are your favorite materials?

My current favorite materials are are flashy stones, like labradorite, moonstone, kyanite, and sunstone. I also love working with silver- hammering, oxidizing, texturing, buffing, twisting it, and just seeing what I can make it do.

“Daisy - Brown Carved Bone Knotted Pendant Necklace”

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

I have learned so much from the members at Etsy. Everything from taking better photographs, to making my blog three columns, to uploading my items to Google Base, to setting my shop up for Google Analytics, to accepting Propay and getting the Etsy discount, to drilling, tumbling, and wire wrapping. Everyone at Etsy is so helpful- and not just with information- with moral support too.

“Rare Morenci Turquoise Blue Flash Labradorite and Gray Onyx Sterling Necklace”

*Why should people buy handmade?

People should by handmade because it is better quality and it is special. Somebody was inspired to make it. It was someone’s vision.

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I would like to be able to list faster, rearrange my shop, and I wish checkout was easier.

“Textured Fine Silver Eternity Rings”

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I also teach, garden, play with my kids, bike, read, and ski (about seven months out of the year.)

*Read any good books lately?

I’m just about to finish one. . .Don’t make me ruin it.

“Reflections of Gray”

*In ten years I'd like to be?

Retired and debt-free handsomely supplementing my income making jewely. . .

“Elegant Pearl Pink Swarovski Crystal Dangle Sterling Earwire Earrings”

*How did you come up with your Etsy Shop Name?

MoonMystic was supposed to be Mystic Moon, but Mystic Moon was taken. That one was just kind of a hasty decision because I needed a name for my business cards. Superior Stones was named that because I live near Lake Superior and I use Lake Superior stones in making that jewelry. SilverSmack was named thus because I love(Smack=kiss) working with silver and smacking it with my hammer.

“Beige Carved Bone Necklace”

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

I was kind of lost on Etsy and the Brats were the first team I joined. They took me in and talked to me in the forums when no one else would. Patti or TerriAnn was always there with a hi or some kind words or just some acknowledgement of my existence. It was really nice to know there was a group of people with similar experiences who were just nice and I could just chat with. It was a place I knew I could always go to.

“Ice - Hammered Rock Crystal Fine Silver Eternity Textured Circle Silver Necklace”

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!

August Birthday Brats

2009-07-30T13:53:00.002-04:00

8-11 FlutteringDesigns
8-19 TristaBell
8-21 Bamdesigns

July Feature - Michele of Michele's Essentials

2009-07-06T08:17:00.010-04:00

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of our members to “highlight;” this week. we are pleased to introduce our featured artist and seller

Michele of MichelesEssentials.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Michele Collins and I live in Kenosha Wisconsin. I am a Soap and Candle maker that loves to make products for your skin. I've studied Alternative medicine, holistic therapies, and herbs for nearly 12 years and I hold a Bachelors Degree in Science from The American Institute of Holistic Theology. However, I studied herbs and herbal remedies for some 5-6 years before I received my degree in Science.

Dead Sea Therapeutic Bath Salts SEA SIDE SCENT w Sea Kelp Lavender and peppermint

The use of Herbs and Essential oils goes back in history many thousands of years and has been used to treat many various conditions and ailments. In other countries, herbal supplements and Essential oils are often used medically before pharmaceutical drugs are administered. They also approach ailments with a combination of alternative therapies and common drugs for a heightened and usually improved outcome to the ailment.

I am fascinated with the power of herbs and essentials oils and love helping others with natural alternatives. I have had great success with many of my products. My goal is to own a brick and mortar shop within a year, and be able to fully support my children on my own.

I am a mother of 7 children 5 of which live with me and 2 whom live with their father, I am currently working on improving my business sense through multiple outlets and incorporating various tools to help me expand what I have already achieved.

Basil and Sun Dried Tomato Kitchen Soap

What is the first thing you can remember making by hand?

During my childhood, my mother and I were involved in craft shows. I remember making the old reindeer clothespin ornaments and selling them at the local show, along with various other items. It was so much fun going to the craft fairs and meeting all the people who made things; I enjoyed looking around and seeing just how creative other people where with their wood making skills, painting skills, and hand made dolls. It's always been like a second family to me.

Watermelon Votives

My first year in High School, I made an outfit in a class competition earning me a walk down the runway to show off my skort and matching shirt.

I think that is why, still to this day, I love to make my soaps, I have ventured far from where my mom and I started out, but I can honestly say that my mom was a large part of why I chose this path. I also love to create with polymer clay, even though that is a 'hobby' now.

What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

Honestly, I take my inspirations from nature along with needs. I like to look at certain things and use them together for a certain necessity for my family or friends and I usually don't go wrong.

EVO Clean Laundry Soap

What are your favorite materials?

My favorite materials are oils, fragrance oils, essential oils, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide and butters, anything I can make for your skin or in home scented needs.

Mojito Shower Gel

What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

To keep working at it!

Fresh Forest Soap

Why should people buy handmade?

I believe in handmade because I believe in America, I feel too many people buy items made from other countries supporting their needs, and while doing so hurt the very country they live in. Handmade also brings that what our forefathers have worked so hard for back to life once again.

What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I like it all, there are SO many things to choose from on Etsy, I just love the actual variety that Etsy offers, if you can see it in another store I can usually buy it off of Etsy.

REFREASH Facial Toner

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I am a full time stay at home mom, who is working on going back to school for Cosmetology, with the hopes of bringing my company a complete full circle.

Lime Votives - "Oh My Gosh"

Read any good books lately?

My favorite books to read are actually information books, however I do like to indulge with an occasional fiction story, lately I have been very into a series of books by Yasmine Galenorn, So far I am on book #3 in her series called 'Darkling'.

In ten years I'd like to be?

In ten years I'd like to see my products in every house in America, LOL....

Snoz-Berry Bear Soap

How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

I created my avatar from my logo design. After being on etsy for awhile, I realized I needed to bring a common ground to my products, so I designed a logo. As far as my business name, I used to use Earth's Essence, but I have more recently changed it to "Michele's Essentials" because I wanted to personalize my business and put a part of me into it.

What has being a brat at Etsy meant to you?
I love the support of the Brats, the ladies here are by far the best ladies you will ever meet anywhere on etsy!
To me a brat is someone who has a common ground with others or a group of others. Having a common ground is helpful because I feel we each have our own gifts or talents, and by sharing those talents along with the same backgrounds through our parents being in the Military, we all have that commonality.

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!

Happy Birthday July Brats

2009-06-29T23:58:00.003-04:00

JULY
7-2 buttfreckle
7-7 beadstoo
7-7 Thetatteredgypsy
7-13 modcustomjewelry
7-13 teristreasure
7-17 CraftBonanza
7-17 Odannysgirl
7-19 scooyouphotography
7-19 designsbymariejulie

Featured Artist - Gini of Mod Custom Jewelry

2009-06-15T08:43:00.008-04:00

“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

"Mother Theresa"

Every month, the Brat Team chooses one of our members to “highlight.” This month we are pleased to introduce our FEATURED ARTIST – SELLER…

Gini of ModCustom Jewelry and Oceans Findings

http://modcustomjewelry.etsy.com/

http://oceanfindings.etsy.com/

*Tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Gini Briggs, from Marshfield Missouri (in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and as far from the ocean geographically as humanly possible). I’ve been married for almost 16 years and am the mother of two big stupid dogs.

*What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

I remember making salt clay with my Mom; I must have been about 3 or 4, because my sisters were at school and I wasn't. I don't remember what we made from it, but I still remember the smell! I loved doing crafty things with my Mom.

DAISY EARWIRES

*What inspires you and where do your ideas come from?

The ocean and everything in it inspires me. I get most of my ideas in dreams. But I have to keep a notebook close by the bed, because I forget my dreams really quickly after I wake up.

BEACHY

*What are your favorite materials?

I love silver, copper, bronze and gold. Gold is probably my favorite metal to work with because it’s easy to work, but being it’s so expensive I don't get to work with it often. I also love gemstones, shells, coral and sea glass.

MERMAID

*What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

I have made some of the best friends on Etsy! I've "met" people from all over the world and actually gotten to meet several in person during my travels. That's the best thing about Etsy, having a camaraderie borne of the common thread of handcrafting.

Hussy

*Why should people buy handmade?

Because you don't want to walk around as a carbon copy of everyone else! Anyone can mass produce "stuff", but it takes an artist to make something unique and it takes a unique person to wear art!

TEMPLE

*What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I wish there was more cracking down on mass produced stuff. I see so much that is not truly handmade. If you buy something at Wally World and attach a sticker to it, it's NOT handmade, no matter how you try to spin it!

*Apart from creating things, what do you do?

My education is in Accounting and Spanish, so it makes perfect sense that I've made my living as an air traffic controller for the past 20 plus years. Believe it or not, it's a very creative job. There are definitely rules under which you're constrained, but HOW you go about working within them is up to you. It changes every day and keeps my mind occupied. Plus, there's never anything piled up in my inbox when I come back after being gone for a few weeks.

I'm very involved in our union on a national level and I'm currently traveling the country teaching other air traffic controllers about a new safety reporting system. I love to travel, so that's great, but it is taking a toll on my art. I sneak in as much studio work as I can on my few days home each week.

My husband and I are also both certified licensed Divemasters. So we travel the world exploring our great planet's underwater treasures every chance we get.I'm also the best DogMom in the world...I love my two Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Rosie and Ruby.

I have tons of photos on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/modcustomjewelry/

*Read any good books lately?

Believe it or not, in spite of all I do, I read every day; usually for an hour or so before I go to sleep. Il have 5 or 6 books of various genres going at one time. I'm currently working on "Mists of Avalon," "Atlas Shrugged," "Bloody Bones," and Nelson DeMille's "Wild Fire." How's that for variety?

Visit Gini’s Blog - MOD, Missouri Ocean Design http://waterloggedblog.blogspot.com/

*In ten years I'd like to be?

Ten years younger!!! Seriously, I'm going to be retired from my government job, probably consulting about aviation safety on a contract basis, traveling and diving all over the world with my hubba-hubba-hubby and making more jewelry than ever!

Visit Gini’s Gallery http://www.missouriocean.com/

*How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

My heart and soul belong to the ocean and have ever since the first time I dipped a toe in the icy North Atlantic. Making jewelry feeds my soul just like proximity to the ocean does, so I tied my physical location (Missouri) to my life's love (Ocean).

I'm a BIG Jewelry Geek: http://www.jewelrygeeks.com/modcustomjewelry

*What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

My Stepdad was in the Navy for over 30 years. My Dad was in the Army, but long before he was my Dad. My husband is retired after 23 years in the Army. So the military has been a part of my life for a very long time. Some of my best lifelong friends came to me as part of the military family. I love that the Brats are such a supportive group and that they're as diverse as the art they create.

Visit Gini on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=513392614

and follow her on Twitter http://twitter.com/ArieltheMermaid

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know one of our FAVORITE Brat SELLERS!

Happy Birthday June Brats

2009-05-31T17:36:00.005-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUNE BABIES

6-2 RibbonalityBySushi
6-5 glassdancer
6-20 designsviadumas

Happy Birthday May Brat Babies

2009-04-30T15:34:00.001-04:00

MAY
5-1 GrumpyTomsAttic

5-14 Kerleyskreations
5-21 Anhoki
5-26 BeccasBeadCreations
5-26 mash84

APRIL BIRTHDAY BRATS

2009-04-14T23:17:00.001-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

April 18 lilysgoatsoap

Dandelion Challenge 2009

2009-04-03T21:28:00.006-04:00

Take a look at our wonderful entries for this years Dandelion Team Challenge! The dandelion is the official flower of the Military Brat. Please vote for your favorite entry here: VOTE!

Entry #1
LizEdgar

Description:
I made a bracelet for my challenge entry. I chose the yellow beads to symbolize the dandelion before it changes to the seedlings. I chose the millefiori beads to represent the the lands that dandelions can grow in. The crystals represent the dandelion when the seedlings are ready to fly away and plant their new roots. I just learned that the white puffy part of the dandelion is actually called a "wishie" or a spherical "clock".

Entry #2
Rhradcliffedesigns

Description:
My entry into the challenge is a mosaic done on a wooden plate approximately 11" in diameter. This piece is done with tessarae tiles. And while water resistant it is not food safe nor should it be soaked in water. You can display it in a stand, flat or mounted on the wall. I had fun with this idea and fun playing with tiles after a few years from my last mosaic work. The dandelion was a challenge to depict so I hope you enjoy it as much as I did planning and making it. The back of this plate is painted kelly green and compliments the green of the leaves.

Entry #3
Anhoki

Description:
I made jewelry again. I love the idea of showing off my dandelion pride. I thought about getting a kewl pic of my dandelion tattoo but......Anyway...Both are already listed. Enjoy!

For some of the Brats I love Treasury by LocoBead

2009-02-28T11:38:00.002-05:00

Lovely pinks and fresh greens, can't wait for Spring to get here! Thank you to LocoBead for putting this together. Beautiful!

This Etsy Treasury is viewable here for a short time: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=42744

Stop by Etsy and check it out!

A Bit of Bratty Love Treasury by lavenderladybug

2009-02-14T11:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Military Brats of Etsy!
Thanks so much lavenderladybug for posting this fabulous team treasury on Etsy.
Viewable here for a short time: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=39859

Happy Birthday Brats!

2009-02-04T09:36:00.006-05:00

No wonder Brats are so filled with love ... lots of them have birthdays in February, the Valentine month!

Here's wishing this month's Birthday Brats lots of love in the form of sales. Vist all of their shops and show them some LUV!!!

♥ 2PureJoy.etsy.com ... February 1
♥ ForYourJourney.etsy.com ... February 6
♥ OceanKisses.etsy.com ... February 7
♥ LizEdgar.etsy.com ... February 16
♥ MichelesEssentials.etsy.com
EarthsEssencellc.etsy.com ... February 27

Have a very Bratty Birthday everyone and make sure it's in true Brat style!
Angee .•~*•*~•.
P.S. If I missed adding your day please contact me and I'll be glad to add you to the list.

A Bratty Treasury by Elephantdreams

2009-01-30T20:13:00.005-05:00

A beautiful pink Etsy Treasury by ElephantDreams! Viewable here for a limited time: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=36701

Looking for that perfect Valentine's Day Gift?

2009-01-27T21:38:00.001-05:00

OUR BRAT-TY VALENTINES

anhoki:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19843701

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19817603

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19710945

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19709850

BeccasBeadCreations

Pink hand painted heart pendant:

1. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15191053

Pearls and Peridot:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19930969

Hearty bookmark

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18932017

Rose Quartz Pendant:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17309763

butteredparsnips:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19571263

The buttons can be made into adorable magnets for only $1 more!! Simply email me here and I will set you up with your own listing! These would be great for anyone who enjoys getting a little valentine love - mom, dad, sweetie pie, son, daughter, best friend....

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19286489

I think of sweet pink and red treats when I think of Valentine's Day! These little buttons fit that perfectly. Have me turn them into thumbtacks or magnets for only $1 more and they make the perfect gift for mom, wife, sister, auntie, best friend...

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18030803

I love the art of CMB and the rose fairy is no exception! Sweet heart of a necklace with a little poly rose attached - so delicate and girly! Perfect for any girlfriend, daughter, niece, best friend, sister...

CreationsAnew

Hearted Leaf Mini Desk Set

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19719608

DesignsbyMarieJulie

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11192179

GoodScents:Sc soap

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18794768

solid perfume

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15177100

rollon perfume

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16061723

travel candle

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8892357

LizEdgar

My Brat-ty Valentine gift for my best friend would be an Amethyst and Swarovski Crystal Bracelet because her personality just sparkels.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13410082

My Valentine's gift for one of the sweetest people in my life would be this Sweet Pendant Necklace. Sweets for a sweetie.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7071533

A Valentine's gift for a cherry of a friend:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13409584

A Valentine's gift for a reader in your life:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9283798

LocoBead

A whole wardrobe of earrings:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20005288

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17702010

oceankisses:

My Brat-ty Valentine Gift to my SWEETIE http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19211813

My Brat-ty Valentine Gift to my TEACHER

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6370451

My Brat-ty Valentine Gift to DAD

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10289556

My Brat-ty Valentine Gift to MOM

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10140078

Rhradcliffedesigns

The first two items would make great gifts for a lover of hearts, and anyone you'd like to send a valentine to....from sweetie to friends to family.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9428822

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8919398

For a special someone this heart is unique and beautiful....it can be hung anywhere and says "I love you" in so many special ways.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14568091

terryann

My gift suggestion for her a crazy slouch tote bag she will go crazy for!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=154182

TimelessInspirations

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18347507

Brat Pack of Etsy - Feature Artist - Liz Edgar ♥

2009-01-26T18:23:00.006-05:00

Liz Featured Brat Jan 09 ♥♥♥

here is the forum thread....

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6015569

Her Shop;
http://lizedgar.etsy.com/

Her Blog;
http://lizedgar.blogspot.com/
To view a photo gallery of other jewelry she has made, please visit:
http://myspace.com/lizedgarsshop

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).

My name is Elizabeth, but I go by Liz. I was born in Salt Lake City, UT, but pretty much grew up in San Diego, CA. My dad was in the Navy. During my first year of life he was sent to Vietnam. Mom says he was different when he came home. He was stationed to San Diego when I was a toddler. I wasn’t’ a brat who moved every few years, but a lot of my friends were. We had a common thread that drew us together. Dad went to the Philippines on his last cruise when I was five. We stayed behind in San Diego. He finished out his career and retried a chief.

I have one sister. She is career Navy. She is a chief and will be in the Navy 14 years this February. We are fortunate that she has been able to stay stationed in San Diego the last few years. There was a time when she was in Oklahoma. We are very close. She has a son whom I have helped take care of when either she or her ex-husband was sent out to sea. I am married to a Military Brat. His father was Army and Navy. He is not in any branch of the service. I have three children. My sons are 19 and 14 years old and my daughter is 10. My oldest completed Marine boot camp last summer. For now he is stationed at Camp Pendleton.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

I totally loved creating as a child. Making mud pies with dandelions were a specialty. I had the standard finger paints and play dough as a kid. One year I got a Spin Art set for my birthday. I made a bazillion pictures with it. I remember the cardboard macaroni tree spray painted in gold I made in kindergarten for Christmas. My mother cherishes that tree. I think my favorite was the bean mosaic I made in elementary school. My mother still had it hanging up when I was a senior in high school. I have an Associate’s Degree in Child Development. I like to say I majored in cutting and painting. I have crocheted, cross stitched and latch hooked. I have worked with pellon and felt making finger puppets and props for teaching. I got into the craze of puffy paints and made decorative sweat shirts and t-shirts for family members.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I first got into jewelry making when my daughter’s friends brought their beads to a sleepover a few summers ago. I worked with hemp and knotting. I dabbled with elastic string. I prefer bead stringing wire. I started out making bracelets for myself to match the colors of the clothing I had. I received many compliments. My confidence in jewelry making increased and I began making jewelry for friends and my children’s teachers as gifts. One of my friends and co-worker suggested I start selling the pieces I have made. In March of 2005 I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I made inspirational bracelets to keep my spirits up. Thank goodness it was stage 1 and operable, but at the time I had no idea what I was getting into. While waiting for results between biopsies I kept myself busy making jewelry. It was a great stress reliever.

4-What are your favorite materials?

I really like using glass beads of all shapes and sizes. I like fiber optic because its cat’s eye resemblance. My most recent favorite is glass pearls. I just love their shininess and the array of colors they come in. I prefer bead stringing wire, but have worked with nymo thread.
I also enjoy making ribbon bookmarks and cell phone charms. I love the search for colors that complement each other. I also like adding charms to personalize the bookmarks and cell phone dangles. I have a few favorite bookmarks I have made for myself to use in the books I am reading.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

I learned about Etsy from my sister. She had heard about in on a morning radio show. The show was flagging online sites that don’t get much recognition. I did a lot of searching on Etsy to see what others were doing in their shops. I opened my shop in June of 2007, but didn’t list anything until August of 2007. I liked what I saw and through the forums and I found that I wasn’t the only one who was new to the whole thing of selling my handmade items. I have really been blessed with joining the Military Brats team. I have found so much love, support and belonging. I really appreciate the kudos I receive from other members. It is very encouraging. I am also a member of the San Diego East County team. SDEC started out as a really small group, but we are increasing as the weeks go by. A few of our members are also members of the Military Brat team. It is really neat to have local folks to meet and share with.

6-Why should people buy handmade?

I feel handmade items are made from the heart. I know with the items I make I put a lot of thought and time into each piece I create. Handmade in my opinion represents the person who makes it. Handmade is more original than assembly line products. I love unique items and feel handmade is the best way to achieve that uniqueness.

7-Where do you do your creating?

Initially my work area was either the living room floor or on my bed. I kept my materials and supplies in storage containers stacked in my bedroom. As my collection increased I moved my work area to the kitchen. I took over the kitchen table, but still left a little room for meals. Now my work area is in the living room. I have rearranged the living room and my work area a few times. At Christmas time I took down my work table to have room for our tree.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?

When I am not creating, I take care of my best friend’s baby boy. I have been taking care of him since September 2008. He is 7 months old. Before that I was working at my daughter’s elementary school as a noon duty. I would supervise the children during lunch time and their lunch recess. I did that for three years. I did teach preschool for approximately six years. I left teaching when my daughter was born.

9-Read any good books lately?

I love to read. I was hooked on the Twilight series. My girlfriend and I read the books together last November and December. I have read the Harry Potter series. I dabbled a little with Stephen King’s books. I really like Susan Wiggs. She writes romance novels, but they are not raunchy. I have a Nicholas Sparks book in the waiting. I have read most of his books. I am currently reading “The Shack.”

10-In ten years I'd like to be…Hmm, I haven’t given much thought to where I would be in my life in ten years. I will be celebrating my 40th birthday next month so I would be 50 then. I am happy with who I am. Of course, I would like to be healthy and have my kids near. I would like to be a grandma and spend lots of time with my grandchildren. As for crafting, I am sure I will be doing it in some shape or form. I don’t foresee feeling the need to own a boutique or shop to sell my wares.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

My Etsy shop name is my name. A friend of mine whom I had given many of my handmade bracelets to totally encouraged me to sell my jewelry. She would rave and flaunt the bracelets I gave her. She called the bracelets she had from me the “Liz Edgar Collection.” Bingo! My shop’s name is LizEdgar. As for my avatar, I wish it was a picture of one of my cats. I have always had cats in my life. I love frogs, too. As a kid I remember going to the frog pond and stepping in the mushy mud to find frogs. So, my avatar is a kitty with a frog hat.

12- What has being a brat at Etsy meant to you?

Being a brat at Etsy is totally awesome. We have a common thread that ties us together. At first I didn’t think I qualified as a brat since my family didn’t move around like other brats. Being a brat at Etsy has given me an extended family. Thank you so much.

Black and White Brat Treasury by Lavenderladybug

2009-01-12T11:59:00.005-05:00

Classic black and white! Thank you Lavenderladybug! You can view the treasury for a short time here: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=32952

Dandelion Challenge for April 2009

2009-01-12T11:02:00.002-05:00

The Dandelion is the official flower
of the military brat.

All Brats are hereby challenged to create something with a "Dandelion"
theme by April 17th and post a picture of it over at the team discussion
site in PAGES. There is a prize involved here, so don't be slackers!

The link to each challenge entry will be posted in the Teams & Events
Forum on Etsy on April 18th and voting on our entries will be open to
all team members, Etsy shop owners, and Etsy buyers through April
19th.

SURVEY

2009-01-10T18:57:00.001-05:00

Here's the link to the new survey for our team:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=5_2fvercZQ1Vvqy3o4CnjhDQ_3d_3d

Happy Birthday January Brats

2009-01-07T11:23:00.003-05:00

I've returned from my holiday trip to the panhandle just in time to wish those celebrating birthdays this month a happy one. Visit their shops and wish them well for this new year.

JANUARY 7th...
Cheap Boutique.etsy.com
Journey In Jewellery.etsy.com
Moda Designs.etsy.com
Strictly Wholesale.etsy.com

JANUARY 27th...
Yoda Moon.etsy.com

If I missed someone or you're a new member that wants to be added, please contact me and I'll include you too.

Blessings to all...
♥ Angee .•~*•*~•.

A Bratty Treasury by GrumpyTomsAttic

2009-01-06T23:25:00.003-05:00

Great set! Sure brightened up my day. You can view it here http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=31749 for a short time.

BlockheadRadio/BlogTalkRadio Interview....AFTER THE INTERVIEW

2009-01-03T23:20:00.004-05:00

It warmed my heart to see such a great turn out for our interview with Artisans Teams and Groups, with host Lily (http://www.tulipstreasurebox.etsy.com). You were all great both on the air and in chat. Lily's show is on every Saturday at 1:00 Eastern Standard Time. I understand that our sister team HOMEFRONT will be interviewed on Valentine's day, so I hope you will make time to visit Lily's show (Artisan Teams and Groups) again. I've asked Lily to be an "honorary brat" in our group and I hope she will accept the invitation. Also, I know many of you are members of other teams, so I hope you will alert your team leader to this wonderful way to promote!

If you were not able to join us while the show was live on the air, you can still hear the interview at your leisure by clicking on the BlogTalkRadio picture on the right-hand side of this blog page. You won't be able to know what was going on in "chat" at the time, but you can hear the interview, some of your fellow brats, and some pretty great music!

Thanks again Brats! You all are awesome!

Patti

BlogTalkRadio Interview January 3rd

2008-12-31T10:28:00.004-05:00

Our Team Leader, Patti (Oceankisses.etsy), is doing an interview with BlogTalkRadio.com on January 3rd, 2009 at 1 pm EST.

What a great opportunity to find out what our team is all about! If you've been wondering, this is your chance to really see and even chat with team members during the show.

The call in number for the phone interview is (646) 649-7320
It would be great to have as many team members as possible to call in during this 90 minute on air interview. If you can't call in, log in to BlogTalkRadio.com to chat!

It's going to be a fun and relaxed interview so if you have questions, please ask. Comments, please share.

We look forward to chatting/talking with everyone on January 3rd, 2009 at 1 pm EST!

December's Bratty Birthdays

2008-12-03T10:25:00.005-05:00

This picture is my gift to all the brats who are having birthdays this month. I thought it was so colorfully perfect for December.

Everyone send these special December Brats a Happy Birthday greeting by visiting their shops and when their days roll 'round, wish them well.

♥ MoonMystic & Superior Stones ~ Dec 9
♥ ArmyWifewyo ~ Dec 22
♥ ArtBarkers ~ Dec 25
♥ LocoBead ~ Dec 27

Shout out A Super Great and Very BRATTY BIRTHDAY to all and... have a very Merry Christmas Holiday too!

♥ Angee ~:••:~*""*~:•:~*"*~
P.S. If you're a new member and I missed adding your day, please convo me with your date so I can add it in.

Have a Brat-ty Little Christmas Sale

2008-11-18T23:15:00.003-05:00

Have a brat-ty little Christmas!
It's the best time of the year.
I don't know
but you'll save dough
if shop right from here

Ho ho ho!
and
Happy Holidays!

Just a small sampling of goodies! Check out all the sales.Click on the photos above to go see the artists shop!

Featured Brat ~ Double Brat ~ lavenderlizard and lavenderladybug !

2008-11-18T23:13:00.010-05:00

Double Brat Featured Artist ~ Lavenderlizard ~
The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team
~ November 2008 Brat Feature ~
every few weeks we feature one of our members, this time we are proud to Feature:
lavenderlizard and lavenderladybug

Double Brat with two stores!

See her etsy shops here;

http://www.lavenderlizard.etsy.com/

and
http://www.lavenderladybug.etsy.com/

Here is her blog…..http://lavenderlizard.blogspot.com/

Her flickr photos here;http://www.flickr.com/photos/14254353@N03

See the post on our Bratty Blog here;http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

also posted in my blog;http://justsoterryann.blogspot.com/

Photos of her work between questions.

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).Hi! My name is Elizabeth Kalka, but everyone calls me Liz. I live in San Antonio, Texas (Military City USA), which is just perfect for a Brat! I’m married to a great guy (served in the US Navy), and we have 4 sons who range in age from 2 to 12.I consider myself a Texan (part of my family arrived in Texas in the 1700s, and both of my parents were born and raised here), although I was born in Boulder, Colorado. After 20 years in the Air Force, my father retired, and we moved to the Dallas area, where I lived from the age of 10 until I left for college. Then I spent 12 years in Austin, where among other things, I attended the University of Texas (Hook ‘Em!). After my husband and I married, we settled here in San Antonio.I started The Lavender Lizard with accessories, scrubbies and crocheted necessities about 18 months ago, and this year I opened The Lavender Ladybug, which I envision as my supply and destash shop.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?I learned embroidery stitches while I was a Brownie when we were stationed in La Paz, Bolivia. I still have the first thing I made – I raided my mother’s sewing basket for buttons to embellish it. The “fabric” is very coarse, like burlap, and I signed it with my initials.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?I am probably most inspired by yarn – different colors and textures make me think of different objects. For instance, I found this great fluffy, orange, tweedy yarn, and I thought “I just have to make pumpkins out of this!” So I did! The problem is I have more yarn and ideas for it than I have time….

4-What are your favorite materials?Well, yarn, of course! I also cross-stitch, and I am in the process of designing cross-stitch embellishments for The Lavender Ladybug.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?Patience, for sure! Also, it’s important to know that an Etsy shop is not static – you must spend time listing, photographing, editing, writing, learning, promoting, networking, renewing, blogging, checking the forums, mailing (hopefully), and keeping records. That’s after you have spent time creating in the first place.

6-Why should people buy handmade?Handmade = love! I have always cherished handmade gifts, and I love to have one-of-a-kind items that someone cared enough to make. Buying handmade is supporting an artist, and I can’t stress the importance of that enough!

7-What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?I would love to be able to organize my favorites – I’m forever hearting items, like I’ll go on a hearting spree through Pounce or the Treasury, but good luck finding them again. I don’t have the patience (or time) to check the pages of my favorites.I would also love the ability to organize my shop without renewing items and put items into more than one shop category.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?Well, I parent my boys, which keeps me quite busy. I have served on PTA boards for the last 6 years (this year, I am the treasurer for the middle school PTA). I have a weekend job in retail. And every night before I go to bed, I have to read, no matter how tired I am.
9-Read any good books lately?Just finished “The 39 Clues” (Rick Riordan, the author, also lives in San Antonio), and I’m looking forward to the next one in this series (Put down the book, people – I’m going to win the prizes!)I’m also working my way through the Bones series (although I found I could not stand the TV series based on these books! Weird, huh?) My favorite place in the world is a library.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…Watching my 2 oldest sons graduate from college, DS3 graduating from high school, and seeing my youngest son enter teenage hood. Professionally, I would love to publish some of my original crochet designs.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?Both The Lavender Lizard and The Lavender Ladybug were named with my favorite color in mind. Also, when I was growing up, my nickname was Lizard. My friend Photoshop and I created both of my avatars.

12- What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?It doesn’t surprise me that a lot of Brats also craft. It must have something to do with the ability to be creative on the fly, to adapt to new situations quickly, and to use crafting to stay grounded in our lives. Growing up as a Brat, I was terribly shy and hated meeting new people. I still feel that way sometimes, but I also found that I can relate to most people on some level because of my life experiences. I think that’s probably true of most Brats!

~Liz

November's Birthday Brats

2008-11-03T15:32:00.010-05:00

<>NOV. 8th ...
ShinyAdornments

<>NOV. 11th ...
LavenderLadybug
LavenderLizard

<>NOV. 26th ...
EarwingsandThings
ElephantDreams
RhradcliffeDesigns

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
Here's wishing all of this month's members celebrating birthdays ~Happy Ones! Visit the Birthday Brat's shops and show some love.

If you're new to the team and I missed you, convo me to be added. ♥ AngeeArt