JLynnJewels

Thursday, March 13, 2014

The Happy List...ready - set - go... :)

So you want to know the secret to happiness?

Well - there is no secret...

Do you think there are "to-do's" in order to be happy?

Not for me...

Is there some sort of "Happy List"

Yes - and it's unique to you...

We've all heard the saying...Happiness is not something you can buy...

For me...it simply comes down to finding that content, satisfied feeling in your everyday life - and to take notice of the little things...
(as a Photographer - it seems I'm always detouring because I'm taking notice of the little things...like these beautiful Pink Roses outside my Mom's house)

My daughter always says - "Walk with a Purpose..."
and I say "Live with a Purpose..."

Life has depth, strength, and meaning...

So to live a meaningful life - we need to use all of our tools...talents, skills, and time,

and to do so, with thoughtfulness, love, and a purpose each and every day.

Some people are born with that sunny disposition - and some aren't...

But everyone can tune into their own happiness...

My best advice...don't over-think the happiness thing...that can be stressful...

When you're sad or things are difficult - face it with grace, and learn from it...

And always...pay attention to the little things - with all your senses...

I know you hear it a lot - that gratitude/blessed word (words often overused...)

So that's why I like to say... "Appreciation"

As in...find your own appreciation for the simple things in your own life...

Life is not always sunshine and smiles - there are storms too...

But it's REAL - and each morning when you wake up, it's another day to appreciate that fact.

So...the HAPPY LIST...are you ready??

It's a quick, in this moment and time... TOP TEN List of the simple things that make you smile, laugh, giggle, cry, or gives you those warm, fuzzy feelings of contentment...

My HAPPY list...well - it goes without saying that my family if always first. But beyond that - here's the everyday little things that are currently making me smile, happy, and - just appreciate having another day in this beautiful, big world. I've always been one to notice the little things...and that makes me happy. I don't think about being happy - and although I'm not always a bright & cheery person every sun-shiney day...I can say that 99.9% of the time, I'm happy and positive. To my way of thinking, it's all about learning to let go of the stuff we have no control over, and just being yourself in all your moments in time :)

Here's my TOP TEN in no particular order...

#1 - Appreciation for the backroads...they are beautiful

Just a week ago, I captured this little peace of heaven on the back roads in Maryland. Roads less traveled, with miles of Horses and wooden fences - brings to mind a feeling of peace and relaxation for me. I love making the time for these drives...usually on the way to somewhere I need to be - but I'll leave a little early just to be able to take the roads less traveled...

#2 - That "small" feeling in a big world

Mother Nature is so inspiring...through all her moods from sunshine to storms. When you think about how many centuries our ancestors have weathered and endured - it sure gives you an appreciation for the little things in life...and it makes you realize that we are all just here living in little moments in time...it's an awesome feeling to be thankful for those moments in life - don't you think? The above shot is one I took from my front bedroom window - pretty amazing sunset...and if you look close - you may even see a flock of hundreds of Birds flying across that "on fire" sky...

#3 - Fun & Colorful Coffee Mugs & Notebooks

No explanation needed really...

I have a lot of mugs that I've collected or created over the years...

Did I mention I also have a variety of flavored coffees to fill them too? ...

I love the Art of old-fashioned writing...and making lists...and taking notes...

I'm very thankful to live within an hour of a Vera Bradley Outlet where this past week they just had 60% off their already reduced prices and I was able to "restock" :)

#4 - Places...the Beach, my front porch, and a Winter Wonderland of Snow

Nothing quite like the sound of the ocean waves and seagulls...

Love my Porch time - comfy rockers, good company...and my favorite beverage

Love the sounds of that winter stillness, the cool crisp air and those snow covered branches...

#5 - Flowers

Whether they are outside or from a bouquet I plucked from our Grocery store...

I love flowers...their scents...their colors and the all the beautiful details in them

For me - they definitely effect my mood in the most positive way and typically inspire me to get creative in either painting or designing jewelry

#6 - Fur Babies...unconditional love from our two rescues from the Shelter...

Maggie Moo...who has grown so much in the past year...
but who loves to be held and rocked like a baby...
Yes...she is a big Dutch Bunny!

And ANGEL...our dwarf Netherland Bunny (first to join us...)

She loves to be scratched around her ears...and when she is totally content - she gives us her "Dumbo" elephant ears. She also loves to race around the Family Room and then crash...

She is not much of a Snuggler but loves to hop up and visit with you when you're sitting down. She also loves to play games with my Slippers too :)

#7 - Baking...and Fresh Fruit

There is something about the smell of baking cookies...
We love baking - and typically make traditional cookies - Chocolate Chips & Scotties...
but I also love doing different ones, like these easy "Hoot" Owl cookies...which were part of a surprise "Care Package" for my daughter at College - had a lot of fun making these!

Fresh fruit is the best....

#8 - Beads and ART Tiles of all kinds...and Jewelry of course...

No explanation needed - just visit my Facebook page, my website and Etsy store...

#9 - Art...Painting & Doodling

My favorite...Watercolor painting (yes I do other mediums - but there is something about the liquid fluidity of painting with these very translucent paints)

Yes - I love to doodle (Zentangles) when I can!

Love Pen & Ink and the tiny intricate patterns you can create

with a series of lines, shapes, dots and swirls

#10 - Gypsy/Bo-Ho style patterns...

Fun and colorful patterns - I have a lot of different home decor pieces and throws with similar patterns. These are just so inspirational and a great way to give life

to a colorless corner on a shelf...but they also inspired me to create "Boho" styled ART Tiles and Gypsy/Bo-Ho style Jewelry as well :)

That's my Top Ten for the current Happy List :)

Have you made one yet? If not - try it :)
Keep it simple - and include the little things that make you smile.
JLynn

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Compare yourself with...

Compare yourself with…

absolutely no-one…

I haven't posted in some time - and that's ok. My thought was if I can blog once a month with the things I want to do, the things that are coming up, as well as, the things that are happening right now - it's all good! I'm me, this is my blog - and basically I can do what I want here lol ;)

So the comparison thing…well, it's human nature - but a bad habit - and one that typically has us doubting and putting ourselves down. Whether your internal battle sounds like "they don't like me, I'm not creative enough, I didn't catch on fast enough, I don't have what they have, I'm not skinny, I have a big nose or Queen Mary feet" - the reality is - you don't need to be talking to yourself like this. I'm not sure why we do this - but I do feel part of the reason why we do, is because we live in a world where others judge, categorize, criticize and bully others - often without ever taking the time or to care about their own thoughts or actions. They make assumptions - and 99.9% of the time - they're wrong. So the next time you find yourself in a self talk that's negative - turn it around and simply silence them...if you are talking like this - you know what? You are wrong too :)

Sometimes life is like looking out the window - you watch, you listen, you speak less, and observe more. We all need a little quiet, to focus on all the positives. You hear a lot about being thankful and grateful for what you have - but the simple truth in that - is that some days it's hard to do - but that doesn't mean you stop trying. You do what you can, in the manner you can - and keep on - keeping on...looking for all those simple things that bring a smile to your face. These are moments in time - and they will pass...

Snow is one of those smile things for me. It makes me happy - especially after several years of just dustings. Yes - if you couldn't tell - we've had some snow here this year…these are the Winterberries that are just off my porch from a couple weeks ago. Love this shrub - as they attract the Bluebirds (photo from last year when we had NO snow)…but regardless, being able to see the Winterberry in all its winter glory with snow or without - with visitors or without - just makes me happy and thankful for so much because it's a reminder that life continues through the seasons :)

My BlueBird family loves them too...

A few months ago, I felt myself coming to that cross-road. That place where you stop, look, and really think about which way you're going - and my thoughts at the time - had more to do with the business side and creativity. So along with assessing all my successes, I also looked at the things that were weighing me down and realized I simply needed to let go of them, in order to make room for the "nexts" - so when I think about being grateful - I really am. Maybe because despite knowing and having gone through all the bumps, potholes, and detours in life - I still wouldn't trade any of it away. You know, they say if you have a place to call home, some people that love you - that your life is good and you have more than enough without any other "stuff".

Every day - we have choices - and some of them are...do you focus on all the things you don't have - or do you focus on all you do? And just how do you focus? Well, you need to try hard at silencing the voices, by taking inventory of your life and being happy in the here and now. We all need to view ourselves from the outside and really see our own strengths and true value - as that's one of the keys in helping us stay motivated and keeping our face in the light. You don't have to be perfect...I'm not...and no-one else is either. No big deal. Embrace it all and keep moving forward and focusing on the journey itself - we are all on one.

So my thoughts as January comes to a close…and as I'm still trying to figure out which road I'd like to travel down on the creative side of life - is to keep focusing on all the good stuff. And my Top Tipsters…

Be patient with yourself
Recognize the good and give yourself credit (build your confidence…)
Realize that we are all unique and different and be thankful for that...
Do things because it's positive…and by doing, you feel better about yourself
Happiness has nothing to do with how others are, or what they are doing, or what they have - it's about you alone - and your personal journey.

And sometimes, you may need to remind yourself as I do, that…

We are still learning…but remember if you're here - time is on your side…
To focus on what you have and who you are, and not get confused with what others are doing or saying…
To share...the positive thoughts, and whatever gifts and talents you possess…
When you meet a kindred spirit with a similar mindset, by all means let them know! Compliment their actions, and express just how happy it makes you to share the good thoughts and things.

So when you look in the mirror - really LOOK and truly appreciate the unique individual that is YOU, and focus on the good stuff.

FYI…
"HeartFest" starts tomorrow on our Facebook page - this week there will be lots of shares with the things that make your heart full.

Look for more creative news next blog post…

Have a SUPER weekend everyone :)

JLynn

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

New Year with new thoughts, hopes and wishes :)

Wishing you all the best things in the New Year!

Time ticks on…the pages turn on the calendar. This year has been filled with lots of things - as I'm sure yours has been too! So as I prepare to welcome in the New Year, it is with many beautiful memories that have come before it - and I give thanks for all the time I've been given in this life.

I suppose this is where I might blog a bit about my plans, my thoughts, my hopes and wishes for the New Year as they pertain to my family, life, and business…but like any good book - sometimes we need to wait before the page is turned…

So as think about the sand, gently sliding down into the bottom of the hour glass - only to be turned over again - it is with excitement and anticipation. I've always been one that fondly remembers the past but always looking forward to the NEXT…

Love transcends all time…make it count in all ways…

Sending out much love and good thoughts at this special transitioning of time - Happy New (and old) Year (s)!

Hugs, Janice (aka JLynn)

Thursday, November 7, 2013

The Vulnerable side...

Vulnerable…

To be easily hurt or harmed physically, mentally, or emotionally…

We have all felt "vulnerable" at one time or another, but despite the negative context most associate with this word…it really can be an important positive trait to reinforce and rejoice in. After all, to feel, is to be vulnerable, and it's those feelings that help us connect with others, and in that process...we are more open to love, happiness, creativity and compassion. It takes a LOT of courage to be vulnerable - and in my book it's a good thing.

Yes - vulnerability is a challenge. You may find yourself unsure - or asking a variety of questions (does he/she like me, will they like what I created, did I do something wrong, why did they say that?) Fact is, there will be times of uncertainty - times when those negative thoughts start creeping up on us - causing confusion, doubt, and making you feel sad and depressed - that's why you need a "plan of action" - along with some simple ideas to help you feel better. For those sensitive souls out there like me - there are definitely things that hurt. Our choice is to ignore, run and hide or put things into perspective, and see the big picture in order to rise above it all. Social media has pros/cons - the good is bringing people together and sharing - the bad…well there is lots of bullying and negative things circulating too. In this regard…no matter who the target may be (a group, another person or myself), when I see someone that unfairly judges, criticizes, bullies, manipulates, or intentionally hurts others by utilizing Facebook tools in negative ways, it disappoints me. That's why it's important to do what's necessary to create that upward, positive spiral for your own well being.

As with everything in life - we need to find the balance between work, play, creativity, family, helping others, and yes - even computer time. In our technical world, it really is a challenge to allow yourself to be vulnerable but in all the good ways that bring positive things into your life. So here's some things to stay focused on the positives…

1. Make it a point to "work on" your self worth…acknowledge your special talents - give yourself credit for all you do - feel good about who you are because you are special as many of your loved ones have told you (and yes, your fur-babies agree). Vulnerability doesn't mean you need to deny your expressions or feelings - it simply means embracing it, to better express and recognize the good things in ourselves.

2. Know what you value, have a sense of purpose, and try to see all the colors in between black and white. All of these things are key in helping you cultivate a more open mind that is accepting of all kinds of people and experiences, so you can be confident in the art of being vulnerable. If you like to write, keep a journal and jot things down as you think of them…it's a very soothing and relaxing thing to do.

3. Keep the balance between work, play, relaxation, exercising, hobbies, creativity, reading and more. When we maintain outside interests between family and being social (this includes your online social activity) it makes it so much easier to keep our feelings in check and stay on the positive side.

What has helped me, is remembering to stay in touch with my own feelings…and to think. I'm a believer that things happen for a reason and it usually has to do with a life lesson, a moment in passing time - one that I will get through. So if circumstances leave you feeling like you're being picked on, unloved, or unwanted or any other type of self doubt - think of these three little tips as coming to your own rescue. Support yourself, reassure yourself, and most importantly, LOVE yourself! Remember, self-hugging is an important tool to possess :)

~JLynn

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Changes...from Summer Sunshine to Autumn Leaves

Love Knots...

It has been a long time since I've made time to simply "write" from the heart, and say some things that have been on the mind. With the last rays of Sunshine, the long Labor Day weekend, and the unofficial end of Summer, I thought it appropriate to share. Love Knots...the necklace shown above - was published in the now retired "Bead Trends" magazine during the Summer of 2012. It was created with a lot of heart, and thoughts of Summer. It also symbolized that time in everyone's life when you need to dig in deep, keep the faith, hope for the best, and trust that you will be able to handle anything that comes your way.

Stuff happens...

As I sit writing this blog post on my Mac, my very loved Dell laptop is sitting in the garbage can next to me...she made a valiant effort to keep up, but succumbed to electronic heaven this past week. Yes, I had backups - but it was still a sad day considering I've nursed her back to health a couple of times. So if you own a computer, you have probably been where I am right now, and can relate to my choices...

#1 - Use my son's old laptop (Windows/Vista) - unfortunately, listening to the sounds of it, I'm thinking it might last a few months...
#2 - purchase a new Laptop (would need to save a few more pennies and allocate savings funds that are tagged for my upcoming dental work)...
#3 - adapt and learn some new programs while trying to convert ALL of my files over to my Mac...

Well - after a couple days of thinking, Choice #3 is the one that ultimately matched up with where I'm at. Honestly, it's kind of scary and more than a little overwhelming thinking about making a major technical change before the "busy" time - but I'm going for it! I'm not one to shy away from change - no matter how challenging it may be...

When I think of changes - I think about the path I've walked...one that's been filled with a wonderful mix and variety of things in my career and everyday life. I have been blessed with lots of good times - and have also had my share of tough times too - but no matter what...Kindness and Love have always been a part of it all. No-one knows what the future holds - but with every tick of the clock, I do know that having an open mind and a willingness to try new methods, have been key for me, when it comes to dealing with changes and "going with the flow."

Dahlias that I photographed from my front yard...

I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and typically bring forth some form of needed change to our lives. The quote above is one of my favorites...so when I'm feeling less than my typical happy self - I remember the words, and realize that all of our experiences blend together, to lead us to that better place of understanding and compassion. Whether you choose to see the negative or the positive in any situation, your personal success will always be based on your perspective, focus in life, and how you react to things. So make it count on the positive side!

The "Winds of Change" are hard to pinpoint because sometimes they are so subtle...and simply appear like a gentle breeze on a sunny day. Such has been the case with me throughout my life. Many people are opposed to changes - but for me - I welcome and embrace them mainly because they have always brought new happiness into my life. In just the last 10 years, time has gone by so fast...and I have no doubt that the next 10 or whatever time I have left on this beautiful earth...will go by even faster. When I look back to 2001...my kids were in Elementary and Middle Schools...and now they are Adults. My son graduated from College a year ago (currently working as an Assistant Manager while he still continues to hunt for a job in his field - Computer/Information Systems) and my daughter...she is in her second year of College majoring in Forensic Accounting and minoring in Management (along with obtaining her Master degree on a fast track). It's mind boggling to see just how fast the changes have come for them, and knowing that they don't even realize just how fast their lives are moving too...because afterall, when I was in my 20's, I thought I had all the time in the world lol.

Life is full of surprises and we are constantly "growing" - and in some ways, we are all like Perennials - needing a little "rejuvenation" time in between the blooms. For the last five years, I've recognized a progressive change for myself when it comes to combining my work, creative needs, and finding the balance. At this point in my life, it would be easy to fall back on my tried and true successes (such as a full-time return to Wholesale and Trade Shows); however, I'm one that is sensitive to those inner voices and needs to explore my creativity. Embracing change is not without risk - but for me, the sense of accomplishment and new experiences far outweighs the worry. So begins a new phase for me...

Emotional Tides...

A bracelet that signified my struggles of acceptance and love,

during the months leading up to my Sister's promotion to heaven/November 2011

You see, no matter what paths we find ourselves on - the point is to keep moving forward. It's as simple and complex as that. Difficult and challenging, or happy and easy going - it's the old "Onward Ho"! After losing my Sister (she was only 55), things changed for me. I saw things a little differently, and realized how very fragile life is. Health issues can be very challenging...and every family has their share of them. Our family is no different ~ and this year...my husband ruptured a lower disk in his back in January...in April my Mother needed surgery on her Carotid Artery...in early June, I became temporarily blind in one eye (similar to watching the curtain close or a shade being pulled across your eye...and then total and complete darkness with no sense of control or feeling) - and at the end of July, my daughter had an accident at work, which caused a complete lacerated upper eyelid, Scratched Cornea and cut in the eye. I share these things because I think it's important to remember that a little bit of Teddy Bear TLC along with the "Onward Ho" type of attitude is often the best way to get through the tough times so that you can be thankful for the healing progress and all the little positive things in your life. Guardian Angels are sweet - and fortunately, my husband healed with two months of Physical Therapy - my Mother made it through her Surgery with flying colors (she was 90% blocked). For me, my vision returned and all preliminary testing is showing normal - still have a few more tests they want to run - but for now, we are hoping that the TIA was simply caused by a piece of plaque behind the Retina. For my daughter - she was fortunate to have a surgeon in our County that could do the layered procedure in putting her eyelid back together. She continues to heal and goes back for additional eye vision tests and checkup on how the tissue/scar is healing in another month or so - but we are all extremely thankful and grateful...two very powerful words...

Being positive and hopeful - that's what I strive to be. Creativity helps me with that too - whether it's through my Jewelry, Art Tiles, Photography or Painting - it's a soothing and calming process that allows me to tell the stories of my life, and express all the emotions trapped inside. So to all my fellow creative Artisans out there (no matter what skill level you're at) - if you're allowing your inner thoughts to shine through in the things you touch and create...it's a good thing! Be brave and don't allow anyone to dull your shine, bully you, or dictate what you can or can't create. Surround yourself with positive people that uplift, support and encourage. You are special and unique - and whether you choose to acknowledge it or not - what you say and what you create (emotionally and physically) are special and unique too.

FALL will bring some changes for me...

Personal and Business wise - but all positive!

Look for a return to my ART roots...including Miniature Paintings in Watercolor,

Acrylics, Inks, Drawings, Photography & Digital Artwork

ART Tile and Jewelry NEWs...

Custom Orders will be available on our regular website at: JLynnJewels.com
and...

Ready-to-ship ART Tiles & Jewelry will be offered in our ETSY stores at:

JLynnJewels
JLynnARTJewelry

Have a wonderful Labor Day Weekend!
~JLynn

Monday, August 19, 2013

The Chosen ONE!

LOVE to host informal Creative Challenges - and I'm working on doing these a little more often!

This particular challenge was inspired by Peacocks...specifically the colors shown above. The only rules for anyone that wanted to join us - were to use at last 2 colors and simply post a picture - and HAVE FUN! Yes - I'm awarding one prize - nothing biggie - just a little "something" to the creation that simply made me go WOW...or oh, oh, oh - I LOVE that!

Well - to be honest - I'm so stinkin' objective, and have a tendency to simply love all that take the time to have a little fun and post their creations, that it makes it hard to just pick ONE...! Here's our participants this time around...but let me start out with an inspirational share submitted by Jan...this amazing cake! Talk about detail and color (and no she did not try to pass this off as her own creation lol).

And here are the designs in no particular order :)

Lisa Lodge - pretty Butterfly & Flower Earrings!

These made me feel happy as soon as I saw them...Aloha indeed! Beautiful Polymer Clay beads accented with Butterfly charms and a little silk ribbon texture

Helen Bowen - Peacock Statement Necklace! I simply adore linked chains and I know this would look fabulous with a fun summer outfit - great design that can be dressed up with a pretty silk cami and jacket...or a White T-shirt and Jeans!

Paula Schmidt - Two variations in necklaces...both beautiful - one with a lighter more delicate feel to it...and the other incorporating a variety of beads for a more chunkier and substantial look!

Jan Williams - Beautiful gemstone single strand Necklace...

such a rich and elegant feel to this one - with beautiful colors that catch the light!

Darla Buhler - Such a sweet Cluster that really popped with our color combo!

Great Choker style Necklace that would be a great accent to wear with a V-Neck Shirt

Tonya Busby - always love her intricate combination and selection of beads

- beautiful use of colors, bead sizes and variations!

WELL...I bet you're wondering who I picked lol...I'll get to that in a bit, but first...I thought I would share my design ideas in motion (so to speak)...

With many Tile Orders processed the past two weeks, I worked right up until yesterday finishing them all up - so didn't have the time I wanted to design...however I did go through my bead stash and have a lot of future design ideas brewing...some of which are being "pondered" here...

And if you're wondering about those colorful, geometric earrings at the bottom?

Can you guess what they were upcycled from???

A Belly-Dancer's Chain Belt!

I call them "Belly-Up" - hard to see in the photo...but these are actually lightweight enameled brass pieces that I will be accenting with

Fallen Angel Brass findings, Copper chain, Swarovski Crystals

and tiny ceramic rounds from Karen of Starry Road Studio.

Currently - lot of works-in-progress :)

I LOVE COLOR!

It never ceases to inspire me...

AND...

with these fun Creative Challenges - it's like someone granting you permission to "play" and experiment with all the endless possibilities...

No telling what new designs will come to be!

Well - it's that time! Here's the ONE...

The ONE I chose...and trust me, it was HARD...

Kristy's Earrings were really talking up a storm to me!

I can't tell you the number of times that I came back to look at her photo to simply admire and sigh. Between the organic wire wrapping, and her blending of bead sizes and of course "color"...these earrings were the "ONE" this time around! AS the "chosen" one ;) - Kristy will receive a free ART Tile of her choice

HAPPY DESIGNING!

Keep in mind that our Etsy store is in vacation mode while I take a little time off to play in the sun, get creative, design jewelry, and of course...add all the new FALL ART Tiles to our Etsy store over the next three weeks!

Look for our re-opening of JLynnJewels the first week of September...

AND...

Look for the GRAND OPENING of our JLynnARTJewelry Store!

HAVE FUN during the last couple weeks of summer...

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

PINTEREST Jewelry "PIN-up"winner!

Join our PINTEREST Jewelry Designer Group

dedicated to all those who design for fun or profit

with our specialty ART Tiles!

Each month you have the opportunity to showcase your designs in a group setting that is shared on a variety of social media, including Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

Ask for an invite to our

ART Tile Jewelry designs by JLynn and Friends!

then all you need to do is PIN :)

Make sure you're following "JLynnJewels" on...

Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram

then...

Include JLynnJewels or JLynn ART Tiles

in your product description & Item detail TAGs (meta tags)

in your Etsy, Artfire, or Blog/Website when

sharing your jewelry design created with our ART Tiles!

The PIN-up Winner for the month of June is

Jen Fletcher of JensFancy on Etsy