tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67064911878786606712024-02-20T18:31:55.078-05:00Bonhomie JewelryInspirations and meanderings of a jewelry designer....Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.comBlogger413125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-27961269159443959822012-09-21T09:50:00.002-04:002012-09-21T09:50:32.805-04:00difficult decisions..........you may have noticed that it's been SOME TIME since i've posted<br />
(or maybe you didn't notice. no matter)<br />
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i've been in the process of making some decisions.<br />
after prayer and a good 'ol heart to heart with myself, i've decided to let go of creating jewelry.<br />
you can read a bit more about that decision <a href="http://bonhomieevents.blogspot.com/2012/09/real-lifeletting-go-or-giving-up.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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i'm not closing down <a href="http://www.bonhomiejewelry.com/" target="_blank">my site</a> (for now). BUT it will no longer be my focus.<br />
anyone can contact me for a custom order.<br />
i'm sure i'll still make pieces for gifts (to myself AND others!!)<br />
but i think this season has passed and it's time to begin something new.<br />
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i'm so grateful to all of you who have supported me and encouraged me.<br />
i love everyone i've met through this journey.<br />
i won't be blogging here any longer.....i hope y'all will come visit me over at my new blog:<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://bonhomieevents.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">bonhomieEVENTS</a></span><br />
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i don't expect things will change too much - just a new focus.<br />
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some <a href="http://bonhomieevents.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">come visit</a> and leave me some love over there - i wouldn't want to miss your visit!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-83722170444990856532012-06-04T13:02:00.000-04:002012-06-04T13:02:11.780-04:00new pieces.........{spirit charms}<div style="text-align: center;">
my best friend's boys play a few different sports and she approached me about creating some "<a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/guilford.html" target="_blank">spirit charms</a>" - charms representing the sports they play and the teams they're a part of. </div>
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i gotta admit, i was hesitant. i am NOT a sports fan. at all. </div>
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she insisted that these charms would be huge among her team mom friends - though, of course i would have made them just for her - but i really wasn't seeing it.</div>
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here are the designs i came up with - lacrosse & football at her request, based on their team logos:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21i2kjSHWYBhPGYB-Jm1cfPhVYQUzNMAPTo9HNo72_NhQZYHwrbfmqZl3p70YfApd3U5YNOMoATOoOnpmdyzxsFHzTjiX-VlhOwAeVwUKTZ6LNO1JmxTWdt0EnCTxY-LB2jNSk46okZKo/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21i2kjSHWYBhPGYB-Jm1cfPhVYQUzNMAPTo9HNo72_NhQZYHwrbfmqZl3p70YfApd3U5YNOMoATOoOnpmdyzxsFHzTjiX-VlhOwAeVwUKTZ6LNO1JmxTWdt0EnCTxY-LB2jNSk46okZKo/s640/collage.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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and apparently, she was right ;-)</div>
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huge hit.</div>
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so if you have a son or daughter devoted to sports, send me an email - i'd love to see what kind of design we could come up with!</div>
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in other news, i've been very (happily) busy with <a href="http://www.bonhomieevents.com/" target="_blank">bonhomieEVENTS</a>!</div>
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i've posted a few more galleries of recent parties so take a look and tell me what you think!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-72765067633734268152012-04-27T11:57:00.002-04:002012-04-27T11:57:56.089-04:00lots of stuff goin' on.......<div style="text-align: center;">
i've been a busy-yet-absent-little beaver, lest you think i was ignoring you! that wasn't the case - i really have missed you all and i've been thinking about you quite a bit :-)</div>
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i suppose you're dying to know what's kept me so busy so i'll share with you....</div>
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first, the <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/inspired.html" target="_blank">inspired collection</a></span> has launched! i love every.single.design!</div>
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<a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/inspired.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/inspiredgroup1REV.jpg" /></a></div>
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second, the <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/page42.html" target="_blank">bonhomie bridal suite</a></span> has also launched! custom wedding logos that can be used on invitations, place cards, calling cards, favors...or translated into timeless jewelry pieces!</div>
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<a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/ovalmonogram.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="151" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/IMG_5686REV.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://bonhomiejewelry.com/tree.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="151" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/IMG_5666REV.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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i'm so excited about these collections! but there's more..............</div>
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<a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=eventblogheader.jpgwww.bonhomieEVENTS.COM" target="_blank"><img alt="bonhomieEVENTS" border="0" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/eventblogheader.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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yes, i've also launched an <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.bonhomieevents.com/" target="_blank">event planning service</a></span>. i don't know that i've ever shared this with you but way back when, it was my intention to go into the wedding planning business. i'd had quite a bit of experience with corporate event planning in previous jobs, i'd worked on the production end of countless pageants and shows and i'd helped out a number of friends with their weddings. i had SUCH a fabulous time planning my friend's baby shower and i have SO MANY ideas for any number of other celebrations and - as usual - hubby has been so supportive. he's even helping out with design ideas and prop construction for a birthday party we have coming up :-)</div>
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i'd love it if you'd pop by the <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.bonhomieevents.com/" target="_blank">new site</a></span> and give me some feedback.......maybe even say "hey" on my new <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Bonhomieevents" target="_blank">facebook page</a></span>, please?</div>
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so with that being said, i may continue to be a bit scarce over here but i will show up from time to time!</div>
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it's friday (one month and two days since i last posted - wow!) and i think this is the first weekend in a while where we have nothing scheduled.</div>
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<b>how about you? what are your weekend plans?</b></div>
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ps: have you signed up for my newsletter? (in the sidebar) no? you should - a special surprise will be coming shortly :-)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-90963753101200336592012-03-26T09:16:00.002-04:002012-03-26T09:29:32.815-04:00fab finds.....{jennasue designs}<div style="text-align: center;">i <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/03/real-lifelets-catch-up.html">mentioned</a> how excited i am about my inspired collection.<br />i am so in love with the designs!<br />honestly, i really had no idea i had that in me.<br />yes, they're simple - but so sweet!<br />and exactly what i had in mind for this collection.<br />just goes to show - even when you think you can't, give it a try.<br />ya never know what'll happen :-)<br /><br />the creator of the font on my inspired pieces is a wonderful artist, jenna sue<br />as soon as i saw it, i knew it was perfect and i was even more thrilled to find out she does <a href="http://jennasuedesign.com/">beautiful print work</a><br />i thought i'd share a few of my faves......<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=jennasuecollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/jennasuecollage.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />she's also the author of a blog full of fabulous design & diy projects!<br />so please stop by and show her some love!<br /><br />find jenna sue:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennasuedesign?ref=seller_info">etsy</a> / <a href="http://jennasuedesign.com/">web site</a> / <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/">blog</a><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-73040533707226523792012-03-23T09:48:00.003-04:002012-03-23T10:06:09.591-04:00real life......{lets catch up}<div style="text-align: center;">hey, y'all!<br />i've been out of the loop for a bit so i thought it would be nice to catch up :-)<br /><br />let's see........we had a couple weeks of illness<br />and car trouble :-/<br /><br />i've been planning a baby shower for a friend<br />i would LOVE to give you a peek but she reads my blog :-)<br /><br />i'm diligently working on getting the new collections together....<br />i've had some set backs but i've also had some blessings<br />it seems to take me so long to convert my ideas into actual products<br />we've talked about this before, i think.<br />sometimes i think i sabotage myself out of fear<br />fear of failure, maybe?<br />i don't know....what do you think?<br /><br />but i CAN give you a peek at the progress of the inspired collection:<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=collage_2012-03-23_09-01-25p.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 374px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/collage_2012-03-23_09-01-25p.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />i'm so proud of my designs.......each one is created by me :-)<br />i'll be photographing the collection today so hopefully it will be live soon!<br /><br />hubby's birthday is tomorrow (happy face!)...<br />my birthday is next week (sad face!)....<br />i do have something up my sleeve but since he might read this, i can't share that either ;-)<br /><br />so what have you been up to?<br />any plans for the weekend?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">what have you been up to lately?</span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-12133892470272971222012-03-21T08:52:00.002-04:002012-03-21T09:12:43.182-04:00encouraging words wednesday...{patience}<div style="text-align: center;">i was never really a patient person.<br />and then i became a mama.<br />you mamas know, once that little one comes along, you have no choice.<br />little man has taught me to be patient...<br />in most things.<br /><br />now, as i struggle to become the godly woman He wants me to be,<br />i work to be patient in <span style="font-size:130%;">all</span> aspects of my life<br />but the hardest for me is waiting on the Lord.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=isaiah4031.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 400px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/isaiah4031.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90288949/soar-graphic-art-print-8x10-inch-isaiah">via</a><br /><br />now, i know that whatever He has planned for me will far exceed even my wildest dreams.<br />following God's plan for our lives only leads to good.<br />so you'd think that waiting on Him would be easy for me....<br /><br />nope.<br />i don't know why.<br />but i struggle with this on a daily basis.<br />i feel as though i'm<span style="font-style: italic;"> constantly</span> running ahead.<br />forever saying <span style="font-style: italic;">"oops! sorry God - okay, i promise, i'm <span style="font-weight: bold;">right here</span> until you tell me go"</span><br />then i'm off again, not sure if it was Him who said go or my own impatience.<br /><br />i am so grateful that He forgives me time and time again.<br />that He has patience with me.<br />that He leads me gently to where He wants me to be.<br />and then there's peace.<br />and joy.<br /><br />thank you, Lord.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-91133543734065548372012-03-08T08:29:00.002-05:002012-03-08T08:55:16.938-05:00pinterest...{good, bad & best}<div style="text-align: center;">it's time for another review of my pinterest boards!<br />(you can read the first one <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/02/pinterestgood-bad-best.html">here</a>)<br />i've actually got one <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603040324/">pinterest project</a> going on right now....<br />too soon to share my thoughts but i'll try to remember it for next time :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">baked wonton cups</span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608602916113/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608602916113_mjwJxIc4_c.jpg" height="458" border="0" width="500" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);">Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.inspiredtaste.net/2602/easy-appetizers-baked-won-ton-cups/">inspiredtaste.net</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />you might recall the <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2011/09/real-lifemoms-brunch-party.html">back-to-school brunch party</a> i hosted<br />these were one of the items on the menu<br />(actually, the entire menu was created with pinterest finds!)<br />the presentation is gorgeous and they're so easy to make<br />instead of the fresh dill, i used capers.<br />now, i LOVE smoked salmon. so that's gonna get an automatic 'thumbs up' from me<br />BUT.....it's <span style="font-size:130%;">really easy</span> to overcook the wonton wrappers (especially for me :-p)<br />they're pretty bland and tend to get soggy if they've been sitting for even a short period.<br />but i'd definitely make them again.<br />my score: GOOD<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">lemon meringue moisturizer</span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603044680/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608603044680_Bxs170sm_c.jpg" height="240" border="0" width="320" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);">Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://wifelife2011.blogspot.com/2011/11/lemon-meringue-moisturizer.html">wifelife2011.blogspot.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />i tried this one over the holiday<br />my plan was to included this in the gift basket for my sister & sister-in-law<br />i <span style="font-size:130%;">really</span> wanted this to work - it looks so good in the picture!<br />sadly, it was an epic failure for me :-(<br />now, it could be the fault of my 'blender' (actually a "magic bullet" that's seen better days)<br />or it could be my lack of patience - i may not have blended long enough...<br />my score: BAD<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">printing on burlap</span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603037937/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/186617978278690801_8Muc3egA_c.jpg" height="480" border="0" width="360" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);">Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_G5_YGMiglIw/TJwq2OOK2vI/AAAAAAAACYA/5wYVe8__0jo/s1600-h/burlap%20laundry%20sign%2011%5B4%5D.jpg">lh3.ggpht.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />yet another gift for the sis & SIL<br />(pinterest...my inspirational source!!)<br />this came out beautifully!!<br />i <span style="font-style: italic;">really </span>wish i had remembered to take a picture.<br />i had a bit of trouble finding freezer paper since i don't usually shop in traditional grocery stores<br />(aldis & target all the way)<br />instead of framing the signs, i mounted the printed burlap directly onto a canvas<br />my score: BEST<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">*disclaimer: any opinion stated here is no reflection on the validity/accuracy of the project/recipe. obviously, someone was able to accomplish it successfully :-)</span><br style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">do you have any pinterest projects going on now?</span><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">how's it going?</span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-18038151053923257132012-03-07T10:34:00.003-05:002012-03-07T11:09:11.161-05:00encouraging words wednesday...{different}<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=different.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 647px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/different.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.box.com/s/u6h3zui948t06deofvui">click here</a> for a free printable version</span><br /><br />the other day, i overheard little man say "oh, crap"<br />umm.....really?<br />i explained to him that this was something i didn't want him to say.<br />not just because it's inappropriate.<br />but because we're christians.<br />because you're a good boy and you set an example.<br /><br />did he really get it?<br />probably not.<br />but he got enough to not repeat it again.<br />(at least within my earshot - let's be honest)<br /><br />this lesson will repeat itself time and again as he grows up.<br />eventually he'll think twice.<br />not because i can hear him.<br />but because he's a child of God.<br /><br />and that got me thinking.<br />i'm careful with the words that come out of my mouth.<br />i go to church.<br />i read the bible.<br />i teach my son about God.<br /><br />but am i doing all that i should?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"and do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."</span></span><br />~ romans 12:2</blockquote><br /></div>all of my friends - believers & non believers - know that i'm a christian<br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">i try to show them all that i'm a "<span style="font-style: italic;">cool</span>" christian....</span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">that i'm just like them even though i believe in God.<br />i think it's been my hope that it would convince the non believers that church is <span style="font-size:130%;">the </span>place to be.<br /></span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">but that's not the way.</span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">that's not what i want my son to learn.</span><br /><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">we saw the movie <a href="http://courageousthemovie.com/themovie">courageous</a> this past weekend.</span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">have you seen it?</span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">excellent </span></span>movie - go rent it NOW :-)</span><br /><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">it's time for me to start making the courageous choices.</span><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">to stand apart, to stand up, to stand in His glory.</span><br /><br /><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2">it may be difficult at times.....<br />but it's time for me to be <span style="font-size:130%;">different</span>.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">have you had an opportunity to be courageous lately?</span><br style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">how did it go?</span><br /><br /><div align="center"> <http: com="" albums="" cc241="" kirstie7965="" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/ewwgraphics.jpg" alt="encouraging words with bonhomie" border="0" /> </http:></div> <div align="center"> <form><textarea rows="6" cols="20"><a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/search/label/encouraging%20words%20wednesday" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/ewwgraphics.jpg" border="0" alt="encouraging words with bonhomie" /></a></textarea></form> </div><br /><br /></div><span id="en-NKJV-28248" class="text Rom-12-2"><br /></span><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-39016857053564272152012-03-06T06:31:00.002-05:002012-03-06T06:31:00.566-05:00guest post... {natalie @ nspottery}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">today, i have a guest blogger: <span style="font-size:130%;">natalie from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/NSPottery?ref=ss_profile">nspottery</a></span><br />natalie is an incredibly talented pottery artisan <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >(she's just introduced some beautiful new pieces!!)</span><br />AND she's an amazing cook!<br />i drool over the recipes she shares on her <a href="http://nspottery.blogspot.com/">blog</a>.<br />not only are they good, but they're healthy!<br />natalie knows that i'm trying to improve my eating habits and she's agreed to share a delicious - and healthy! - recipe here with us<br />*************************************<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWN3hqaVe4iPhU79MHxU6M8dg5gdo0aMTmmnR7Yb9J8LGXEzTzmuM-IOzLgDscn-kvXEsrakCOp44QPfXXOI4LgM87lPQX2MSShIKRMtsHo8ZDhjoGEbgEcJ8K8VJ7wn3HkGiOIy_A-4/s1600/Kale+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWN3hqaVe4iPhU79MHxU6M8dg5gdo0aMTmmnR7Yb9J8LGXEzTzmuM-IOzLgDscn-kvXEsrakCOp44QPfXXOI4LgM87lPQX2MSShIKRMtsHo8ZDhjoGEbgEcJ8K8VJ7wn3HkGiOIy_A-4/s1600/Kale+6.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >If you've never tried kale, you don't know what you're missing! Not only is it <em>packed </em>with nutrients (that do everything from build up bones to prevent cancer), but it is so yummy! This recipe is one of my go-to ways to prepare kale. It is simple & scrumptious! The carmelized onions add incredible flavor- the key is to saute them until they are <em>very brown </em>(don't worry if some of them are starting to look burned- they'll taste amazing).</span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BEd0KF-EJfDn2Q1vz4PKrbyfU63JHFvdT_ZNVrYFanPQIt4_H06wfqt8SX7rg7tfH_s6hmvS6BPtmAazLs1x8ZFOQLsZMRZWKEvCBXeWNiAU-oDTDnB2IJMyi3365FG2HVSFF4Jk6fE/s1600/Kale+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BEd0KF-EJfDn2Q1vz4PKrbyfU63JHFvdT_ZNVrYFanPQIt4_H06wfqt8SX7rg7tfH_s6hmvS6BPtmAazLs1x8ZFOQLsZMRZWKEvCBXeWNiAU-oDTDnB2IJMyi3365FG2HVSFF4Jk6fE/s640/Kale+4.jpg" height="480" border="0" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">SAVORY KALE (<span style="font-size:x-small;">serves 2-3)</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">- 1 TB. olive oil</span><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >- 1/2 medium onion, chopped</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">- large bunch of kale, chopped (approx. 5-6 cups)</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">- 1/4 tsp. salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">- 1-2 TB. tomato paste</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">Heat olive oil in large pan on medium-low & saute onions <em>until very brown, </em>probably 10-15 minutes. (I never time it, so this is just a guess.) Add kale and saute for 1 minute. <em>Your pan will be very full-</em> don't worry, it cooks down quickly.</span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMNi6AuMNx9xuiNhffF5avXJFJ8AJeMeKILneaefQnGkLmGeOuosUN7_33qlhKbUDixvv3311v3RXp3O0NvgAomIs6DueJzZCU960SSnjzdi-msp9aNwAv6kr1k1Qe6yPFW08uoqGfNU/s1600/Kale+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMNi6AuMNx9xuiNhffF5avXJFJ8AJeMeKILneaefQnGkLmGeOuosUN7_33qlhKbUDixvv3311v3RXp3O0NvgAomIs6DueJzZCU960SSnjzdi-msp9aNwAv6kr1k1Qe6yPFW08uoqGfNU/s640/Kale+1.jpg" height="480" border="0" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >Add salt & a splash of water, turn to low, cover, and steam for about 12 minutes. </span><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >Mix in tomato paste.</span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifPCZaPcwo1nQZcD1YpzNiYZYGID_TtXa1VlC3FMO7MdrGMBhgXQ89IzW7kWme8TNi5R-ulS-d3bARlHOJFskWilNd0svPs8docVqIL8JFZugCNCaObYVMxRFTUBIn6Lyr9ML4m76YEus/s1600/Kale+2.jpg" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >Serve & enjoy!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6rUgnRnhDqWxC29Gwbpx1KqgsvwY0-POrAcY1bcxrc9YEuIi9aZXTnCPi073lqZ3VrzsVqlSQ68h-r933Qm9LqxDLAkWCxCnTE7y57eN3Hf6RWqAa0U9XUnSwvGZx5y1W9rcf2X4Gac/s1600/Kale+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6rUgnRnhDqWxC29Gwbpx1KqgsvwY0-POrAcY1bcxrc9YEuIi9aZXTnCPi073lqZ3VrzsVqlSQ68h-r933Qm9LqxDLAkWCxCnTE7y57eN3Hf6RWqAa0U9XUnSwvGZx5y1W9rcf2X4Gac/s1600/Kale+3.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><em><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" >Be sure to visit <a href="http://www.nspottery.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> for more healthy + yummy recipes!</span></em><br /><span style="Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;font-family:";" ><em>Thanks so much for having me, Kirstie!!</em></span><br /><span style=" ;font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:x-small;" >recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.heraldpress.com/titles/simplyinseason/">Simply in Season</a></span><br /><br />**********************************<br /><br />thank you so much, natalie!!<br />i'm honored to have you visit!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-55032763970902972242012-03-05T09:00:00.002-05:002012-03-05T09:14:11.098-05:00fab finds......{iphone goodies!!}<div style="text-align: center;">okay, i realize that most of you already have an iphone.<br />but i just got mine so allow me to revel in it's new-ness :-)<br /><br />i will disregard the daily visits to my local sprint store in an attempt to get my phone functioning properly.<br />i will ignore the fact that i'm on my second phone in less than 4 days.<br />and i won't even mention the countless phone hours logged with at least 10 separate sprint representatives, trouble shooters and technicians.<br />we won't mention the texts i receive in (at least) triplicate.<br />nor will we discuss the discrimination my phone shows toward any phone that is not an iphone.<br />and i'm certainly not gonna bring up the fact that my husband's iphone -<br />purchased from the same store, at the same time, with the same settings -<br />works <span style="font-size:130%;">without issue</span>.<br />i won't even mention it.<br />really.<br /><br />instead i'll share with you some really cool etsy finds for your iphone:<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=iphonecollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/iphonecollage.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89354839/fairy-tales-book-charging-station-for?ref=sc_4&sref=sr_65814a2baf07d4770f385061118d36a20b731eeaa01207fe718a286a3173f86b_1330954544_14171485_iphone">1</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88084005/iphone-4-case-iphone-4s-case-aristotle?ref=sr_gallery_21&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=iphone&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">2</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94449811/rose-earphone-plugcoverstopper-pink">3</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91661037/iphone-wallet-mint-green-burnt-sienna?ref=sr_gallery_5&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=iphone&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">4</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92698811/personalized-monogrammed-cell-iphone?ref=sr_gallery_9&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=iphone&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">5</a><br /><br />while i await my phone call from the sprint engineering department (<span style="font-style: italic;">seriously?!?!</span>)<br /> i'll dream of all the cute stuff i can buy for my phone....<br />as soon as i'm sure it's working properly!!<br /><br />happy monday! :-)<br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-37103163837189234192012-03-01T10:11:00.002-05:002012-03-01T10:40:18.534-05:00{counting my blessings.....}<div style="text-align: center;">you may have noticed that i missed yesterday's "<a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/search/label/encouraging%20words%20wednesday">encouraging words wednesday</a>" post<br />not that i didn't have any words of encouragement, mind you.<br />it's just that my routine was thrown off a bit and is off today, still.<br /><br />i tend to get a bit cranky when my routine is altered so the best thing for me to do is:<br />take a deep breath....<br />put on my big girl panties....<br />and focus on all the wonderful things God has provided us.<br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603353342/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/219691288042193344_Sytf1ZRn_c.jpg" height="600" border="0" width="480" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);">Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://astepinthejourney.blogspot.com/2011/07/few-printables.html">astepinthejourney.blogspot.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />i'm thankful for a godly husband and the fact that we live in a place that allows me to freely teach my son about God's love.<br /><br />i'm loving <a href="http://lysaterkeurst.com/2012/02/3-marriage-lies/">this post</a> that i read today. such a wonderful reminder that marriage is not all "sunshine & sausages" (for you, hubby!) but requires God & effort<br /><br />my head is crowded with creative ideas/changes/improvements for <a href="http://www.bonhomiejewelry.com">bonhomie jewelry</a> and i've begun to get overwhelmed. but i must keep in the forefront of my mind that this creativity is God sent. it is a blessing. if i stick close to Him, it will all work out :-)<br /><br />God has been softening my heart in a particular area as of late. i don't know what will come of it but i'm grateful for the sound of God's voice and the moving of the holy spirit.<br /><br />i am so thankful for my son. he is a gift i never really expected.<br /><br />and there are lots of little things, too.....my new iphone. i got some more starbucks keurig cups. hubby did the dishes this morning. i have new designs ready to go to the stampmaker.....<br /><br />praise Jesus for the big and for the small!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">what are you thankful for today?</span><br /><br />linking up:<br /></div><br /><center><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://fontenblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img alt="The Fontenot Four" src="http://i1238.photobucket.com/albums/ff498/sjfontenot/RDD%20Design%20November%202011/thankfulthursdays.png" /></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-28681991178367562662012-02-27T08:46:00.002-05:002012-02-27T08:54:59.372-05:00fab finds....{spring}<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/02/insta-photo-friday-little-happy-things_24.html">this past friday</a> notwithstanding, we've had perhaps the mildest winter in the history of new england.<br />so really, i've no reason to complain.<br />but these hints & teasers of warmer weather have me wishing for spring!<br /><br />brighter colors, flirty dresses, beautiful flowers......<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=collage_2012-02-27_08-39-56p.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 501px; height: 375px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/collage_2012-02-27_08-39-56p.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90481769/spring-sprouts-green-and-yellow-tea">1</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83696960/blush-dusty-peach-pink-angel-hearts-love">2</a>,<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81990658/fine-art-photograph-spring-flower"> 3</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90682205/welcome-spring-home-decor-for-spring?ref=v1_other_1">4</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92144150/spring-wreath-easter-egg-wreath-easter">5</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">are you ready for spring? what's your favorite season?</span><br />let me know in the comments!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-67314666216888544642012-02-24T10:14:00.002-05:002012-02-24T11:01:59.261-05:00{insta photo friday & little happy things!}<div style="text-align: center;">this week flew by. seriously, i don't know where the time went!<br />here's a little recap of my week......<br /><br />we were able to take our time getting ready for school this morning.<br />two hour delay.<br />seriously?? i was just getting my hopes up for spring.<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=tmp_photo.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 499px; height: 373px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/tmp_photo.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />but it really is pretty :-)<br />if it's gonna be cold, it might as well snow!<br /><br />a little scripture doodle after my devotions this morning:<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120224-093237.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 480px; height: 640px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120224-093237.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />taken from matthew 6<br /><br />last night was "family art night" at little man's school.....<br />clay & collages<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120223-185552.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120223-185552.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />little man has a lot of artistic talent on both sides of his family - i can't wait to see him bloom and i always wonder if he'll retain his love for creating.<br /><br />okay, seriously yum. that's all i have to say.<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120221-123037.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120221-123037.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />thankfully, i'm still working out :-)<br />here's proof:<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=IMAG0291.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 490px; height: 326px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/IMAG0291.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />i'm averaging 4 days a week on the elliptical - something always comes up and i end up missing a day.<br />but, i have added time on and some additional strength & toning exercises.<br />yay me!<br /><br />remember me mentioning <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/02/insta-photo-friday-little-happy-things_10.html">these pictures</a> from target?<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=target1.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 244px; height: 325px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/target1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=target2.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 244px; height: 324px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/target2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />here's my interpretation! i love how they came out!!<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120220-141819.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120220-141819.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />i had a conversation with my mother-in-law about artist vs. crafter.<br />what does it take to go from a crafty person to one who's considered an artist?<br />my thought: if you take time to study & perfect, you're an artist.<br />what do you think?<br /><br />i found the glasses i want.<br />what do you think? opinions, please!<br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120219-134346.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120219-134346.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />i don't think i shared with you my most recent attempt to upgrade my glasses.<br />i had my eye exam in january & my prescription changed just a bit.<br />excellent excuse for a new pair, right?<br />well, i was there alone. and i'm blind as a bat without my glasses or contacts.<br />i did NOT have my contacts in when i was choose the new (then empty) frames.<br />hideous. seriously, horribly hideous.<br />so bad that i'll only wear them at the jewelry bench.<br />i'm no longer allowed to pick out glasses on my own.<br /><br /><br />this weekend: mom's night out at a paint-your-own pottery place tonight - though i hear there's the potential to work with glass. i think that has my name written all over it *grin*. saturday is family day and sunday, we're taking a visit to hang out with my mother-in-law.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">what are your weekend plans?</span><br /><br />linking up:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://liferearranged.com/"><img alt="life rearranged" src="http://liferearranged.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/instafridaybutton.jpg" height="120" border="0" width="200" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.hellohue.com/p/its-little-things.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Hello Hue Little Things" src="http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z393/AisletoAloha/littlethingsbutton3.jpg" /></a></center></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-57987819379780641302012-02-23T06:22:00.000-05:002012-02-23T06:22:00.717-05:00pinterest...{good, bad & best}<div style="text-align: center;">i love pinterest.<br />pinterest provides me inspiration, solutions, motivation, entertainment & encouragement - doesn't get much better than that, right?<br />however, i have a confession to make.......<br />i'm a <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >chronic pinner</span>.<br />i visit pinterest sometimes several times a day. and i pin.<br />and pin and pin and pin.<br />sometimes i pin things i've forgotten that i've already pinned!<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(c'mon. don't tell me i'm the only one!)</span><br /><br />so to keep those great recipes, projects & tips in the forefront of my mind, i'm going to start keeping track & making notes of my successes and failures.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">DIY febreez</span></span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608602912307/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608602912307_I0uR7wXt_c.jpg" height="200" border="0" width="165" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.homemademamas.net/2011/07/febrezefor-less.html">homemademamas.net</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />i don't buy febreez any longer - i use this exclusively. the scent doesn't linger the way febreez does - which could have something to do with the bargain brand softener i'm using - but it does freshen & remove odors.<br />my score: GOOD<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">custom candles</span></span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603036655/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608603036655_kinlFziJ_c.jpg" height="300" border="0" width="400" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://agirlinparadise.blogspot.com/2011/01/transferring-ink-to-candles.html">agirlinparadise.blogspot.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />i made these as gifts for my sister & sister-in-law for christmas.<br />premise: using heat, adhere a custom design created on tissue paper.<br />instead of a heat gun i used a blow dryer to adhere the design. i misunderstood the final result - i thought the design would TRANSFER to the candle but, as i just stated, it actually adheres. my results weren't very consistent - i either melted the candle or the design began to separate from the candle. i would suggest using white candles only (i tried using ecru candles) and a heat gun instead of a blow dryer.<br />my score: BAD<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">brown sugar body scrub</span></span><br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608602916137/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608602916137_q2rAOJXv_c.jpg" height="741" border="0" width="500" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.thefrugalstyle.com/wordpress/fashion-beauty/sugar-pie-honey-bunch-diy-body-scrubs/">thefrugalstyle.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />i've made this twice now - once as a take-home goodie for the mom's back to school brunch i did and once as gifts for the sister & SIL. it smells AMAZING and works fabulously. i'm currently out (sad face) but i'm using it as a reward for myself: accomplish x,y,z and you get to make yourself some more scrub! i know, i'm silly.<br />my score: BEST<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >*disclaimer: any opinion stated here is no reflection on the validity/accuracy of the project/recipe. obviously, someone was able to accomplish it successfully :-)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">so tell me, what are some of your pinterest successes?<br />need a pinterest invite? just let me know in the comments!</span><br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-80344241603183015232012-02-22T06:45:00.001-05:002012-02-22T06:45:00.428-05:00encouraging words wednesday....{healed}<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=sunrise4.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 374px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/sunrise4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1377456"><span style="font-size:78%;">via</span></a><br /><blockquote style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:130%;">"but He was pierced for our transgressions,<br />He was crushed for our iniquities;<br />the punishment that brought us peace was on Him<br />and by His wounds we are healed."</span><br />~isaiah 53:5</blockquote><br /><br />by His wounds we are <span style="font-size:130%;">redeemed</span><br />by His wounds we are given <span style="font-size:130%;">mercy</span><br />by His wounds we are <span style="font-size:130%;">reborn</span><br />by His wounds we are <span style="font-size:130%;">forgiven</span><br />by His wounds we are shown <span style="font-size:130%;">grace</span><br />by His wounds we have <span style="font-size:130%;">life</span><br />by His wounds we have <span style="font-size:130%;">love</span><br />we have been saved on <span style="font-size:130%;">cavalry</span><br />and there is power in His <span style="font-size:130%;">blood</span>.<br /><br />when i really meditate on the enormity of this...<br />i am in awe of what He has done for me.<br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-1762457325625451322012-02-21T07:56:00.000-05:002012-02-21T07:56:00.112-05:00{custom designs...}<div style="text-align: center;">you know i've been busy working on two new collections but i've also had some custom orders i thought i'd share with you!<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=dogtags.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 250px; height: 187px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/dogtags.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=mama.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 250px; height: 187px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/mama.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />these were actually a couple of orders i had over the holiday....<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=petiteamerica.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/petiteamerica.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />this is my second year providing a custom charm to the titleholders in the <a href="http://petiteamericapageants.com/">petite america pageant system</a> - run by a good friend of mine ;-)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=kgdmonogram.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/kgdmonogram.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />here's one of the wedding logos i've created to be a part of the "bonhomie bridal suite"......<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=kim.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/kim.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />and here it is translated into a custom charm - along with 2 others i created :-)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=bexmixedmetal.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/bexmixedmetal.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />and here's a mixed metal necklace - bronze with copper. i'm REALLY loving the bronze - you'll see much more of it in the "bonhomie bridal suite" and in the "inspired" collection.<br /><br />many people don't realize that when i say i do custom work, i really do mean <span style="font-style: italic;">custom</span>!<br /><br />so if there's something you've been looking for and just can't find - bonhomie jewelry may be your answer!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-1938033448314536812012-02-20T08:32:00.002-05:002012-02-20T08:49:53.705-05:00fab finds...{vintage}<div style="text-align: center;">i see so many of you posting your thrift finds, taking pics during your antiquing outings....<br />and i'm jealous :-)<br /><br />there was a season in my life when i spent time searching for treasures at thrift stores, flea markets & antique shops.<br />there was joy in finding the perfect piece - and if it was a bargain, all the better!<br /><br />for some reason i don't quite understand, that season has passed for me.<br />don't get me wrong, i still love a bargain and i pick up an occasional treasure here & there :-)<br />but vintage pieces just don't seem to fit into my life at the moment.<br />though that doesn't mean i don't appreciate - and miss - their beauty.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=collage_2012-02-20_08-28-24p.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/collage_2012-02-20_08-28-24p.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92881896/enamelware-measuring-container-1940s">1</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83505588/milk-bottles-with-carrier">2</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87320397/circa-1900-french-large-zinc-basin?ref=v1_other_1">3</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93207944/instant-collection-of-vintage-books">4</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91967386/printed-vintage-grain-sack-passey-nott">5</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">share with me - what's your most recent thrifted find?</span><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-45307450301388701742012-02-17T10:11:00.004-05:002012-02-18T09:15:16.677-05:00{insta photo friday & little happy things!}<div style="text-align: center;">i've been kinda busy this week, trying to get the new collections ready to launch!<br />HUGELY excited about that but it means that very few photos were taken.<br />but i remembered to capture some moments...........<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120215-123355.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 480px; height: 639px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120215-123355.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />valentines for little man.........<br /><br />speaking of valentines, this morning he asked me:<br />"mama, next year are you still my valentine or will it be someone else?"<br />i told him that mama will always be his valentine - even if he chooses someone else.<br />he said "good! i always want you to be my valentine"<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">awww......</span> :-D<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120214-174017.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 240px; height: 318px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120214-174017.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120215-123431.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 240px; height: 318px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120215-123431.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />valentines for mama...<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120217-101729.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 240px; height: 318px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120217-101729.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120217-101801.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 240px; height: 318px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120217-101801.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />guess who this is from ;-)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120215-181437.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120215-181437.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />hubby and i celebrated the day after valentines day.<br />we had a wonderful dinner (which i forgot to photograph!)<br />and good conversation.<br />it was time really needed and <span style="font-style: italic;">so </span>well spent.<br />thank you, hubby, for a wonderful date night!<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120216-175225.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120216-175225.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />somebody got new glasses!<br />he's very proud of them and that makes me happy!<br />but to be honest, even though i was pretty certain this would happen (EVERYONE on both sides of the family needs glasses), i was hoping he might end up the exception.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=p20120217-093505.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/p20120217-093505.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />my very first scripture doodle! i'm not so talented in that area but i really enjoyed the process!<br />AND i had something to add to my journal :-)<br /><br />we've got a quiet weekend planned.....<br />getting some long awaited repair work done to my car.<br />waiting for the refrigerator repair service to call back (don't ask).<br />waiting for our electrician to call back (don't ask).<br />and a birthday party for a friend tonight - yay!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">what are your plans?</span><br /><br />linking up:<br /><br /><a href="http://liferearranged.com/"><img alt="life rearranged" src="http://liferearranged.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/instafridaybutton.jpg" height="120" border="0" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.hellohue.com/p/its-little-things.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Hello Hue Little Things" src="http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z393/AisletoAloha/littlethingsbutton3.jpg"/></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.thehollierogue.com/category/photo-friday/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-297" title="button1" src="http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc383/dreamrdo/photofridaybuttonthr150copy.jpg" alt="" height="150" width="150" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-59314337084988098462012-02-16T08:54:00.002-05:002012-02-16T09:29:45.665-05:00look what i did!...{diy inspiration journal}<div style="text-align: center;">so i've been promising this post for a little while now....<br />i uploaded & edited my photos.....<br />and now i can't find the youtube video i saw for instructions.<br />so i suppose this really IS a diy post.<br />so bear with me, i'm a newbie!<br /><br />so.<br />i began with a plain ole composition journal. which i did not photograph prior to alteration.<br /><br />the video i viewed suggested that the pages would need some additional binding to keep them secure. what she did was, every 20 pages or so, she tied the binding with ribbon and secured them at the top with bows. i'm not really a bow kinda gal so i used raffia then braided the ends for a built-in bookmark.<br /><br />if you like the junk-journal look (and i do) you can crumple up the pages (a handful at a time) to give your journal more 'volume'.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=interiorcollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 338px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/interiorcollage.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />crinkled pages & raffia tied binding. you can see in the second photo the thickness of the pages (and i'd already started applying the scrapbook paper)<br /><br />then i inked over some of the crumpled papers (rub an inkpad over the whole thing) for a grunge look and i glued scrapbook paper over others.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=finishedinterior.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/finishedinterior.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br /><br />you can see here my finished bookmark.<br /><br />i finished up by putting some more scrapbook paper on the front & back covers. i had some scrapbooking brads left from another project so i put a tiny cut in the front & back covers to insert them and used more raffia for a tie to hold the journal closed.<br /><br />i've since seen a suggestion to use contact paper on the cover - i wish i had because i've already had to reapply some modge podge because my paper was coming loose.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=journalcollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 321px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/journalcollage.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />okay, y'all.<br />this was a HORRIBLE diy, i know.<br />partly because i wasn't <span style="font-style: italic;">planning </span>on doing a diy but mostly because i'm just not good at this ;-)<br />if you have any questions, just leave them in the comments and i'll be happy to try to answer them!<br />(i'm also going to keep looking for that dang video!!)<br /><br />i haven't done much with my journal yet.<br />honestly, this type of journaling is new to me and i really don't know what i'm doing.<br />i've found some really cool resources & ideas that i've been adding to my <a href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/inspiration-journal/">pinterest board</a> so take a look!<br />also, i've picked up a few authentic "smash book" accessories from my local craft store just because they're so easy:<br /><br />1. the "<a href="http://www.eksuccessbrands.com/kandcompany/Products/Blue_SMASH_Stick_30-614956.htm">smash stick</a>" 2 in 1 pen & glue stick (i just wish the pen tip wasn't quite so fine and it was blue or black instead of red - i just now noticed that there ARE color options. oops!)<br />2. a "<a href="http://www.eksuccessbrands.com/kandcompany/Products/Blank_SMASH_Pad_30-629929.htm">smash pad</a>"<br />3. a set of "<a href="http://www.eksuccessbrands.com/kandcompany/Products/Paper_SMASH_Tabs_30-614895.htm">smash tabs</a>"<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">do you have a journal? how do you use yours?</span><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-62109173768265540782012-02-15T08:51:00.003-05:002012-02-15T09:57:45.558-05:00encouraging words wednesday...{strength}<div style="text-align: center;">today, i am <span style="font-size:130%;">tired </span>y'all.<br />like <span style="font-style: italic;">bone weary, feet dragging, mind numbing</span> kinda tired.<br />and i don't know why.<br /><br />i didn't want to post today.<br />my thought was to put up a video of some inspirational song and be done with it.<br />after all, no one really reads this, right?<br /><br />but i realized it was satan talking.<br />trying to bring me down.<br />sap my creative energy when i'm on a roll.<br />discourage instead of encourage.<br /><br /></div><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603230193/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/145874475400178647_Yu1JqbEY_c.jpg" height="240" border="0" width="320" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6706491187878660671">Uploaded by user</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />so here i am.<br />still tired.<br />but that's okay.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">if only one person</span> gets something out of this then i am overjoyed.<br />if i begin my day and <span style="font-weight: bold;">rely on the strength of the Lord</span> instead of my dried up reserves, He will see me through and i will accomplish <span style="font-size:130%;">more than i ever dreamed i could</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">amen?</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >amen.</span><br /><br /><div align="center"> <http: com="" albums="" cc241="" kirstie7965="" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/ewwgraphics.jpg" alt="encouraging words with bonhomie" border="0" /> </http:></div> <div align="center"> <form><textarea rows="6" cols="20"><a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/search/label/encouraging%20words%20wednesday" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/ewwgraphics.jpg" border="0" alt="encouraging words with bonhomie" /></a></textarea></form> </div><br />***************************************<br />i'm editing this post about 1 hour later to say.....<br /><br />i added 2 songs to my workout playlist today:<br /><a href="http://youtu.be/JuzEcmGzX_s">jump rope</a><br /><a href="http://youtu.be/MmUDDxflt6o">move</a><br /><br />i got through it with a smile on my face and i even went a bit longer.<br /><br />see what God can do?!?!<br /><3<br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-77973806645824871882012-02-13T07:12:00.000-05:002012-02-13T07:12:00.701-05:00fab finds....{journaling}<div style="text-align: center;">are you a fan of journaling?<br />i <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/02/insta-photo-friday-little-happy-things.html">mentioned before</a> the one i made <span style="font-size:85%;">(and i still plan to post my 'diy', i promise!!)</span><br /><br />i haven't done much with it yet but it's always on my mind -<br />there's just something about fresh, colorful, empty pages. the possibilities are endless!<br /><br />don't want to make your own? no problem! have a look at these journals and journaling tools:<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=collage_2012-02-12_15-08-12p.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 501px; height: 375px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/collage_2012-02-12_15-08-12p.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86744219/make-it-mine-journal-kit">journaling kit</a><br />2. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91330277/journal-cards-3x4-in-scrapbook-paper">journaling cards</a><br />3. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/53641829/sing-song-leather-handprinted-journal">leather bound journal</a><br />4.<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92517235/online-workshop-journaling-from-inside"> journaling workshop</a><br />5. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92268738/30-days-of-lists-mixed-media-notebook">'junk' notebook</a><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-77040470835044479172012-02-10T09:50:00.002-05:002012-02-10T10:15:22.408-05:00{insta photo friday & little happy things!}<div style="text-align: center;">it's friday, thank goodness!!<br />time to share some photos from my week.<br />and guess what?<br />i remembered to take pictures :-)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=livingroom.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/livingroom.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />made some changes to the living room....<br />finally painted one of my mirrors, removed some of the photos on the mantle, put up new 'curtains' (they're really tablecloths - target, of course - so they're no-sew! got that tip <a href="http://christopherandanne.blogspot.com/2011/03/tablecloths-for-curtains.html">here</a>)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=target.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/target.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />saw this at target - colors are almost perfect for my living room update so i'm going to try to paint my own. yikes! i'll let you know how it comes out.<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=gud.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 452px; height: 602px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/gud.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />and also from target.......LOVE!<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=workouts.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/workouts.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br />proof and inspiration :-)<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(the time is actually a countdown. i did NOT do two+ miles 10 minutes)</span><br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=bench-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/bench-1.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />it's been busy at the bench! <span style="font-size:130%;">SOOOO BLESSED!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=aidanparty.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/aidanparty.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />party at the uncles!<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=coloring.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/coloring.jpg" alt="null" border="0" /></a><br />little man and i had our own coloring party :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">that was my week. how was yours?</span><br /><br />linking up:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://aisletoaloha.blogspot.com/p/its-little-things.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Aisle to Aloha" src="http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z393/AisletoAloha/littlethingsbutton1.jpg" /></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://liferearranged.com/"><img alt="life rearranged" src="http://liferearranged.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/instafridaybutton.jpg" height="120" border="0" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.thehollierogue.com/category/photo-friday/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-297" title="button1" src="http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc383/dreamrdo/photofridaybuttonthr150copy.jpg" alt="" height="150" width="150" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cberryonline.com/search/label/girls%20with%20cameras" target="_blank"><img alt="Chrissy Inspired" src="http://i967.photobucket.com/albums/ae151/firefliesandhummingbirds/girlswithcamerasbutton.jpg" /></a><br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-37804362085835765502012-02-09T10:52:00.002-05:002012-02-09T11:20:28.090-05:00growth....{healthy body}<div style="text-align: center;">i thought it would be a good idea to do an every-so-often update on my one little word.<br />ya know....track my progress, keep me accountable :-)<br /><br /><div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/270849365059642918/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/32862272250607546_GSolb8Lr_c.jpg" height="500" border="0" width="375" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6706491187878660671">Uploaded by user</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/brookesummers/" target="_blank">Brooke</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br />the word for 2012 is <span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2012/01/word-of-yeargrowth.html">growth</a></span>.<br />to do any kind of growth, one must be healthy. so...........<br />i've resumed my workouts. yay!<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(i say "yay" now. check with me in a week or two and see how happy i am about it! *grin*)</span><br />i <a href="http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com/2011/07/real-lifeweight-loss-challenge.html">started out with a bang last year</a> then slowly tapered off.<br /><br />right now, my workout is limited to the very awesome elliptical we purchased last year. once i've gotten a good start, i'll add back in my zumba workouts. <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">i feel so 'pretty' when i do zumba - so long as there's no mirror and no one watching :-p</span><br style="font-style: italic;"></span><br />now some people (like my hubby) watch tv while they work out. some people listen to music. others read.....<br />i get bored watching tv....<br />there's too much bouncing for me to read...<br />i'm a music girl. wanna see my playlist?<br /><br /><a href="http://rhap-app-4-0.real.com/rhaplink?rhapid=7340293&type=playlist&title=Playlist&from=naps">workout music</a>:<br />1. Mercy - Duffy<br />2. Rolling In The Deep - Adele<br />3. Puerto Rico - Frankie Ruiz<br />4. On The Floor featuring Pitbull - Jennifer Lopez<br />5. Butterfly - Jason Mraz<br />6. Contra La Corriente - Marc Anthony<br />7. Harder To Breathe - Maroon 5<br />8. Feelin Way Too Damn Good - Nickelback<br />9. Kiss - Prince<br />10. This Is How A Heart Breaks - Rob Thomas<br /><br />ecclectic, i know. and i am SERIOUSLY anal about rhythm so my pace has to match the tempo of the song. which means lots and lots of adjustments to the incline/level throughout my workout.<br /><br />i just started this week and i've managed 3 days so far. i'm averaging about 2 miles each workout and the time happens to equal the playlist once through - give or take a song or two, depending how well i'm getting through it. whats cool is even though i'm just now getting back to it, i can feel an improvement to my stamina each time :-)<br /><br />i've also got my eye on some additional workouts i found on pinterest but i don't want to overdue it - yet!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">so how do you stay healthy? any suggestions for additions to my playlist?</span><br /></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-90046073542194497102012-02-08T08:25:00.003-05:002012-02-08T12:55:47.039-05:00encouraging words wednesday....{new}<div style="padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/197806608603231869/" target="_blank"><img src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/197806608603231869_gzBXJqJp_c.jpg" height="624" border="0" width="500" /></a></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139);"> Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71120478/2-corinthians-517-spring-printable?ref=sr_gallery_1&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=2+corinthians+5%3A17&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">etsy.com</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/bonhomiejewelry/" target="_blank">Kirstie - Bonhomie Jewelry</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">printable available at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71120478/2-corinthians-517-spring-printable?ref=sr_gallery_1&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=2+corinthians+5%3A17&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">agape love boutique</a></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">i've always thought that this was a beautiful <span style="font-style: italic;">concept</span>.<br />accept Christ and be renewed.<br />a fresh start. your sins are forgiven.<br />God's mercy and grace assures us of that.<br /><br />but it's so much more than just a concept.<br />here's what i learned this morning:<br />as a follower of Christ, <span style="font-weight: bold;">i am also required to see beyond the old</span>.<br />and i'm not talking about seeing <span style="font-size:130%;">myself </span>as new.<br />i'm talking about seeing <span style="font-size:130%;">others </span>as His new creation.<br /><br />everyone in our life has a past.<br />everyone makes mistakes.<br />when we come to Christ, our past is forgotten.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">it goes beyond forgiveness.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">the slate has been wiped clean. like it never even happened.</span><br /><br />so i've forgiven and i've loved.<br />but had i truly related to her without judgment,<br />leaving the cloud of past deeds out of the equation?<br />did i honestly see her as a NEW CREATION?<br />i'm ashamed to say that no, didn't.<br /><br />i use the past tense not because i've rectified the situation.<br />i use the past tense because she has already passed away.<br /><br />this was a hard lesson learned.<br />sometimes it happens that way - not because our God is vengeful.<br />but because i wasn't listening to what He was telling me.<br />i cried, asking for forgiveness.<br />He cried with me, i know.<br /><br />but with those tears came a cleansing.<br />a tiny bit of peace.<br />a little bit of healing.<br />assurance that my mistake meant nothing to her outcome.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">she is well and rejoicing with our Lord</span>.<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6706491187878660671.post-57141571134473387452012-02-06T06:51:00.000-05:002012-02-06T06:51:00.252-05:00{fab finds...}<div style="text-align: center;">my best friend is having a baby and it's a girl! most of my friends have boys and those who have girls, i met once their littles were a bit too old for this.<br />i think we'll have fun playing dress up :-)<br /><br /><a href="http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/?action=view&current=collage_2012-02-05_13-38-22p.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 374px;" src="http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc241/kirstie7965/collage_2012-02-05_13-38-22p.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88917787/sweet-birdie-ruffles-custom-crib-bedding?ref=sc_4&sref=">1</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85197302/baby-bow-ribbon-flower-butterfly">2</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88967199/posh-collection-lilac-tutu-set-baby-tutu?ref=sr_gallery_2&sref=&ga_search_query=baby+tutu&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_ref=auto&ga_category=children.baby&ga_facet=">3</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89096271/pink-and-white-polkadot-minnie-mouse">4</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68289813/retro-bubble-romper-with-ruffles-vintage?ref=sr_gallery_7&sref=&ga_search_query=ruffles&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_category=children.baby&ga_facet=">5</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">what do you think? care to share some "little girl" finds?</span><br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/38/113E13313A0A8B3CDC8F4156C951DE24.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>Bonhomiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10605146150636785596noreply@blogger.com0