SOUTHERN CHARM

Right Brainer...that I am...

2011-10-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine a world with Picasso? A world without the Sistine Chapel? We live in a world with unlimited "eye-candy"....even Steve Jobs (RIP) and Bill Gates couldn't have shouted their wares to the world without marketing...thing about it. Art is necessary. A wonderful necessity.
Mrs. Schwartz was my 4th grade teacher at Sequoia Elementary. Loved, loved her. She would read "Charlotte's Web" to us after lunch....with my head resting on my desk, she had the gift to transform those words into real life for me...it remains my favorite childrens' book to this day. I didn't want to go on to 5th grade. I wanted to stay in Mrs. Schwartz class forever. Mrs. Shwartz would let me decorate the class bulletin boards to illustrate the theme of the month......She would assign other students to help me..but they would skip out when the bell rang after school, oh no...not me. I would stay until Mrs. Schwartz had finished grading papers and straightening the room...only reluctantly walking home with white glue happily stuck to my hands, dreaming about color combinations for the next day. 4th grade was my Nirvana. Little did I know at the time that Mrs. Schwartz allowed my creative butterfly wings to unfold and see the world in a whole new light. Colored lights...lots and lots of colors.
I'm no rocket scientist, but academics came pretty easily to me in primary education. In my mind...good grades were just a vessel to have the teachers like me and allow me to doodle aimlessly after assignments were completed. I don't remember ever having to "cram" for tests or stress out during report card time. It just was what it was. No, I wasn't a straight A student...but pretty close. I kind of regret not working harder at reading, writing and 'rithmetic, knowing what I know now...but hey...regrets are useless, right?
What I DO know is that left brain people AND right brain people are essential to keep the world's "ship" righted. A world with only left brain people, in my mind anyway,...would be boring, kind of a grey color..not really social...dull. A world with only right brain people would be, well - I'm biased, kind of colorful and happy people..but would we have the Iphone? Oh dear, one cannot imagine.
There are people who think artists aren't "smart", and oh, how wrong they are...and there are artists who think scientists are dull. I'm still on the fence about that one. Insert smiley face here. But Mrs. Schwartz? She made me feel like I was the smartest kid on the planet. Love her and thank her for that.
Everyone needs a Mrs. Schwartz.

2011-10-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.amarkintime.blogspot.com/

Jenn Crossley is an amazing artist...and it was a treat to spend time with her at Art and Soul, Portland....you simply MUST check out her blog. Prepare for lots of eye candy...her works of art are just that....works of art!

Bye bye sweet bling...enjoy your new home..

2011-09-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

So loved creating this necklace with my favorite colors for a customer from the Buggy Barn Quilt Shop in Reardon, Washington....vintage paper, sugar cube glass, endearing lace bits and chandelier glass came together and I just had to photograph it before L'necklace went on its journey...Thank you Jennifer!!
xoshari

I Heart YOU! "The fruit of the spirit is LOVE, JOY, Peace....Galations 5:22

2011-08-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who braved the heat and the "breeze" at the Buggy Barn Quilt Show" in Reardon this past weekend! Whew! Mother Nature was not going to let summer go out quietly! I LOVE summer...but whoa...was it HOT! The Buggy Barn is so awesome, so THANK YOU to the wonderful people who worked so hard all weekend to make it happen....lots of beautiful quilts swaying in the "breeze"....and "amber waves of grain"...as far as the eye could see. Great setting...
AND, a big shout out to the Patrick and his wife Kathy...who were my saving grace neighbors at the show...without them, my canvas tent would have been in the next county....God Bless You!
The next show for Southern Charm will be at the Custer's Arts and Crafts show in November 2011 at the Spokane County Fairgrounds....until then I will be visiting family and friends, watching our son play college soccer at Concordia University, an art retreat to rejuvenate my creative juices, celebrating our daughter's 23 birthday and of course working on new and fun designs for Southern Charm. Oh and throw in a little kayaking, paddling, huckleberry pickin'....whew! Alot to pack in before ski season begins.....
I HEART all of you....

A Very Busy Artgirl....

2011-08-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

Art on the Green and Sandpoint Arts and Crafts Show are in the books for another summer...
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by my humble Southern Charm booth to look around. I heart you!

And....it's not over yet!! Southern Charm will be in Reardon, Washington for the Buggy Barn Quilt Show on August 27th & 28th....both Saturday and Sunday! I've been going to the Buggy Barn for years as a customer....totally loving the vibe in the store in the country, and mind you - I don't even quilt! I'm a wannabe quilter... So...even if you aren't a quilter like me....spend the day in the country with Buggy Barn Quilts and admire the beautiful quilts hanging on the fences like a magazine cover...enjoy wonderful food and a great lineup of art vendors.......you won't leave empty-handed, trust me!!

See you soon!! hugs...

So EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE!!

2011-04-04T14:23:00.000-07:00

Thrilled to be working with Staci Baily Photography! Check out her blog!

http://stacibaileyphotography.com/blog/

Jalapeno's Facebook!

2011-03-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

facebook.com/JalapenosMexicanRestaurant

there it is folks..yep, Facebook all the way...I finally got Jalapeno's Restaurant up and running...just love this facebook stuff...my apologies again for not posting on my blog!

My Valentine...25 years + more xxoo

2011-02-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

Show Schedule for Southern Charm

2011-02-13T12:45:00.000-08:00

Well,..it's time of year again....applying for shows - and always fun to try new arenas and see friends, old and new! In August....

Always LOVE going to the buggy barn and buying fabrics and other goodies (even though I don't actually quilt...:) )

In March...

34th Spring

Arts & Crafts Show

March 4-5-6, 2011

Spokane Fair & Expo Center

Spokane, WA

Up next is...FEBRUARY 2011

Green Valley Ranch Resort

2300 Paseo Verde Parkway

Henderson, NV 89052

www.greenvalleyranchresort.com/hotel
This serene destination is the perfect location for a relaxing art retreat. For those who desire exciting night life, it is only a few miles from the Las Vegas Strip. And don't forget GOLF -- some of the best courses are located in this area. Enhance your art with a visit to the Red Rock Canyon; take a gondola cruise on Lake Las Vegas with singing gondoliers....

Vendor Show Sunday Feb 27

Always good to start the year off right! And that means the Art and Soul Retreat in Las Vegas! Yippee! Vickie and I LOVE this retreat - the classes, the artists, the fun, the sun! oh yeah baby....Vegas here we come! The show is always a fun time too!

See you soon!!

SOUTHERN CHARM: Do you Heart these?

2011-02-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

SOUTHERN CHARM: Do you Heart these?: "Do you just love these? I do! Kinda hard to see, but these double sided puffy hearts are embellished with two rhinestones and a gem d..."

Southern Charm is now on Facebook! YOU might win a Heart Necklace!

2011-02-12T18:27:00.001-08:00

Do you Heart these?

2011-02-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

Do you just love these? I do! Kinda hard to see, but these double sided puffy hearts are embellished with two rhinestones and a gem dangly...29" ball chain...AND, also included is a mini-tin with the same design in a silver organza bag, perfect for gift giving!
Now available at the Zany Zebra in Sandpoint on First Avenue and
Under the Sun in Bonners Ferry, Idaho!
Questions? Email me at sharifrench@gmail.com
Southern Charm's fabulous facebook page is LIVE (created by Pam @ Like Media) and you have about 24 hours left to become a fan and maybe WIN a beautiful Heart necklace!! woot! woot!

Empty Nest Syndrome....

2011-01-02T20:11:00.000-08:00

Two Thousand Eleven.
Back to College they go.
Oh my, missing the "kids".
Next year, all 4 + 1 spouse will be here.
That will be great.
Then I'll really feel empty nesting....
yikes.....
Chet is making chocolate chip cookies..
really?
Just for us?
Back to the gym, I go.

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T14:05:00.000-08:00

A Wonderful and Prosperous 2011 to Everyone! A chance to renew....a couple of things on my list are...
text less...(~~try, try~~)...handwrite notes more.......and many more of course...what are yours?

This photo of Lake Pend Oreille was taken by Kelsey as we were heading to Cda on Friday afternoon....we are SO fortunate to live here!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T17:41:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas One and All! This is our Christmas card photo 2009 which was taken ON Christmas Day! Next year, we hope to have all 4 kiddos home for Christmas...so our card will definately be a little late as we going to take tons of photos of ALL of us! It's going to be a sunny one again this year apparently, seems like it just should snow, you know?
Thank you to everyone who made me feel all warm and fuzzy about Southern Charm! I've had a blast this year being on the "road" (Jill's husband calls me a "carnie") and it's very fun to see my goodies in stores all over the Northwest! I will have new designs and a show schedule for 2011..
As for my blog, well- you probably noticed that I haven't been blogging very much....honestly, it's because I'm kinda addicted to Facebook! I'll try to be better about my blog....
Until then.....Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! And may God Bless You and Yours in 2011!!
xoShari

Happy Thanksgiving from Southern Charm!

2010-11-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...I've been a very bad blogger...but really - since I took my facebook 101 class (you can stop chuckling now...) I'm kinda addicted to facebook! I can load photos of my goods right from my phone..and I'm SO not a techy kinda gal!
It is wild and woolly out today...the kind of day where the snow blows sideways and your covered deck means nothing. I worked out, then shoveled, then shoveled some more...wierd thing is - I like living here in the Northwest where it snows - sometimes alot -!
Hawaii is great too, don't get me wrong. Love it, love it. But, I love watching the snow fall (even if it IS sideways). Our kids all know how to ski and snowboard - a life sport. Can't beat that. I love the seasons.
In this week of Thanksgiving, I'm so very grateful that I have a warm home to come to, that my children are safe and happy, that my husband is a (very) good guy and we have wonderful family and friends.
I'm grateful that I have my faith in a high power, and that we've raised our children in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Yep, I'm grateful.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Love, me

Vintage Finds and Handmade Treasures!

2010-11-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Don't Miss the weekend's fab show in Spokane, Washington!
there are ONLY Handmade items at this show...so you KNOW it will be amazing!!
SHOP HANDMADE!
GO TO MY FACEBOOK LINK FOR INFO!

Funky Junk Sisters (Junk Salvation) this coming weekend!!! Puyallup, Wa

2010-10-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Initial Necklaces $20.00 double sided 1" x 1"

Resin Paris themed Patina $25.00 approx 1 1/4" round

Bauble Beauties $18.00 approx 7/8" round w/ glass pearl drop

Vintage Typewriter Key necklace (the real deal, no reproductions) $18.00

China Bits Authentic China Bits with soldered dots and a glass pearl drop...$18.00

Southern Charm will be at the Funky Junk Sisters (Junk Salvation) in Puyallup this coming Friday, Oct 15th and Saturday, October 16th! go to http:/funkyjunksisters.com for directions and exciting updates!!!! Hope to see you there!

Monticello Antiques Market, Portland, Or

2010-10-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, did we have fun...

great shopping...

lots of inspiration....

not enough suitcase space...

not enough sleep...

but always enough (and more) fun...

Creative Overload!

2010-10-10T22:33:00.000-07:00

Great store in Portland, Oregon....SCRAP, found lots of stuff I didn't know I needed...for 9 bucks! Can't wait to get my hands dirty! Very fun week at art and soul in Portland with Vickie and Renee! more photos to come...

Portland is Beautiful and Sunny!

2010-10-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

http://artandsoulretreat.com/

See you at Art and Soul Retreat in Portland, Oregon!

2010-10-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

Art and Soul Retreat, Portland 2010

2010-09-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

ooooooooooooooooh yeah! Portland, here we come!! Vickie and I are meeting at our annual art retreat...the best ever! We are so excited to be taking classes with Stephanie Lee and Sally Jean. Renee is meeting up with us also...we all became great friends in Portland last year and then attended the Las Vegas retreat together last February. So..for 5 1/2 days....it's all about art! oh, and shopping, and then the vendor show (of which I'm honored to be a part of..) on Saturday night. Three hours of foot stompin' shoppin' at the Art and Soul Vendor Show ....we'll be shoppin' in Portland for most of the day Saturday, then return to the Embassy Suites and set up for the show.
If you are in the area...you simply MUST stop by because it is eye candy as far as the eye can see! Plus, Maria from Collage on Alberta Street sets up her store in the hotel for an entire week! Come one, come all!!

sharifrench@gmail.com

2010-09-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

Just a post to update everyone on my email address...it is sharifrench@gmail.com

The verizon.net address is bye-bye with no forwarding capability (insert bad words here about verizon), so please accept my apologies if there was no answer on previous emails....but truly - I never received them!
Thank you for your patience!
Also, a new influx of goodies is on it's way to the Zany Zebra in Sandpoint! So..if you are in the area...stop by and check it out! xxooShari

Art Studio! Woot Woot!

2010-09-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

Funk, Funky Art Studio...wall color is "blue lake"....had to improvise after we sold our lake home, right?

A top staple in my studio is this plug thingy...another hubby addition..got the idea from my friend Nancy who put it in her studio...hangs from the ceiling and that way...cords aren't going all catty wampus to the wall...everyone can just plug in "up"...oh yeah baby...

Orders almost ready to ship out....

Yep, my messy little area where the magic happens.....

Alot of progress still needs to be made with my special space....stay tuned...

My FAVORITE Garden thing!

2010-09-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Almost forgot (ok, well, I DID forget) to tell you about my beautiful rustic church bird feeder!!
I spotted it as we were setting up for the Vintage Barn Show last July..Dennis (of the Pammy's Attic fame) created it, and I just love it , love it!!
visit www.upintheatticwithpammyj.blogspot.com
oooohhh...Pam and Dennis have beautiful things!

Self Sustaining Garden...

2010-09-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Wow! Just love my garden! When we purchased this house a couple of months ago, the garden area was a patch of high weeds and a few sad raspberry bushes. My hubby and son went to work and cleared out a space, added seating, and brought in mulch. Since it was so late in the season, I bypassed the seed part and bought established plants (albeit SMALL plants), but they really took off and pretty much took care of themselves! I've been so busy with shows and wholesale orders that I did my "zen" watering every morning, but that's about all. Now, I LOVE going in my wee little garden and finding the treasures...woot woot! I have big plans for next year, since we have a greenhouse too! So excited!
I'm very humbled and grateful to everyone who visited me at shows, or purchased my goodies from a boutique. Thank you for keeping me busy!

Sandpoint Arts & Crafts Show at City Beach

2010-08-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking...where the heck is she? Sleepin' on the job? No blog posts, no nothing!
So sorry...when I hit "show" season...I hibernate in my studio in a creative "explosion" if you will, and throw in a move and you get chaos!
But......a show this coming weekend, August 7 & 8 in SANDPOINT at City Beach is on my home turf and a beautiful setting, much like the Cda show! These are some photos of goodies I am creating for the show...Also, stay tuned for an update on new stores that carry Southern Charm!
Thanks for peeking! xoShari

Art Studio Almost Here....

2010-07-23T19:41:00.000-07:00

OMGosh! I am so very excited to have my very own space for Southern Charm..!
Alas..I won't have a view of Lake Pend Oreille (since we sold our previous home)..but hey - everything is a tradeoff! I DO have a view of my garden and cherry trees, etc. - but I'm thinking that I will be so busy in my new space that I won't have time to even look out the window anyway!
So..a sneak peek at "Urban Art" - a division of Southern Charm!
More to come....xxooshari

Fun & Busy Weekend! Join me!!

2010-07-08T18:25:00.001-07:00

Find me this coming Saturday at the Vintage Barn Show in Rathdrum, Idaho....then, like magic...you can also find me at the Latah Creek Variety Market at the fabulous "CHAPS" restaurant on Spokane-Cheney road. It's absolutely one of my favorite places!! The Latah Creek show is Saturday AND Sunday...so make sure you come on one of those days!! See you there!!

Venice, Italy

2010-07-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

Kelsey is having a fab time in Venice, Italy...a photo of our girl! Oh, they grow up fast. Next stop, Croatia, where we can hopefully skype with Kels and actually talk to her!
Happy 4th of July everyone!
xoShari

Hoopfest 2010

2010-07-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

My soccer boy (young man) also loves basketball! He hasn't missed a Hoopfest (largest 3 on 3 street basketball tournament in the world) in Spokane since he was old enough to play in 3rd grade! My hubby also plays, although the advil consumption post game has increased over the years.
This year....the boys (young men) won ALL of their games and are the champions of their bracket! Yippeee! Even made the local paper! That's my boy! (young man) :)
p.s. my kid is the one with the bracket sheet!

I'm NEVER moving again in my whole life!!

2010-06-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh....I have forgotten what it is like to move.....or maybe I'm older now...or maybe I have more "STUFF", or maybe I don't like change....but whatever the reason..
I'M NEVER MOVING AGAIN!!
The good news is...we LOVE our new (pre-owned) home....smaller kitchen - but bigger art studio space - finally got my priorities right!
In the midst of all this...Verizon "lost" my email address.....SO - if you've emailed me in the last few days...it is in space...and I'm not ignoring you...I just never received it...and Verizon tells me there is no way to retrieve them. (I'm thinking lots of bad thoughts about Verizon right now, insert bad words here)
So..new email address (right after I had about a zillion business cards printed too!)

sharifrench@gmail.com

Thank you for your patience!!!

xxooShari

Bon Voyage!! Spain, here she comes!

2010-06-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

This is a view of the MV Exployer..the Semester at Sea ship docked in the Halifax, Nova Scotia Harbour.......On their way to Barcelona, Spain & beyond!

Nova Scotia, part 2

2010-06-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

Halifax reminds me alot of Seattle with a little Anacortes/La Conner thrown in...ferries,fish & chips,most everything revolves around the beautiful waterfront. Visiting the Maritime Museum today...so excited! Lots of Semester at Sea students arriving and the excitement is building!! I'm living vicariously through my daughter! :)

Halifax, Nova Scotia

2010-06-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Nova Scotia. Always wanted to visit here...always wanted to make the connection between my Louisiana roots and Atlantic Canada. I am a little surprised with what I found...that the French Acadians were ousted from Nova Scotia when they refused to pledge support for the British flag...after all...they were French! They migrated to several locations, but mostly Louisiana, because the Acadians mistakenly thought that it was a French territory. Alas...Louisiana was secretly sold to Spain..but with the Catholic religion as a common thread...the Spaniards and French lived together and Acadians came to be known as "Cajuns". Hence, my heritage... And...now I know why there are so many Cajuns with the last name of Ortega!
I love history, can you tell? A N D...since Nova Scotia was controlled by the British...that explains why only HALF of the population speaks French here...the other half...English, of course...with that hard to miss Canadian accent, eh?
Kels and I visited the beautiful Public Gardens...amazing poppys bigger than my head (and I have a big head) - gorgeous ponds and many people just reading and sipping coffee...what a beautiful place!
We ventured down to the waterfront and did the tourist thing...took that amphibious (sp) tour bus which turns into a boat...just had to do it...and it was a hoot - we had a fabulous lobster salad and coconut shrimp lunch overlooking the water. I rarely drink soda, but couldn't resist a diet coke in an old fashioned glass bottle, isn't it cute?
Tommorrow we are going to visit the Maritime Museum which holds artifacts from the Titanic disaster. The victims where brought to Halifax and the survivors were taken to New York. There are 3 graveyards of Titanic victims here, many with no names...just now DNA is helping with possible identifications...
Monday night is the parent reception on board the ship, then they leave on Tuesday morning for their adventure at sea. How exciting!!! Wish I were going too!xxooshari

Off to Semester at Sea! oops...gotta get a ski in first....

2010-06-10T16:59:00.001-07:00

Kelsey and I are leaving tommorrow for Nova Scotia, Canada! Kelsey will leave for her Semester at Sea Summer Voyage from Halifax on Tuesday, and I will fly back to finish up the crazy/packing/moving voyage of our own! Still in Sandpoint, of course...but we are downsizing and found the perfect house in town!
I've always wanted to visit Nova Scotia...so this will be fun!
Kelsey wanted to get a couple days of waterskiing in before she left (even though the water is a chilly 57 degrees) ... I'm happy to hold the flag...beautiful sunset, eh?

Farm Chicks 2010

2010-06-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

If you've never been to FarmChicks, then you seriously need to start making your reservations NOW for next year.....cuz it's a roarin' good time and if you are a junkin' girl....this is your nirvana!!
My trinkets were in the Vintage Barn booth courtesy of Rolane barnbarnbaby.typepad.com and it looks like the "barn tags" were a hit! Thank you Rolane for the opportunity to have my goodies at Farm Chicks.
Isn't this "cake" amazing???!!! Also...a must do is CHAPS coffee/restaurant/bakery on Cheney-Spokane road in Spokane.....Celeste's new bakery is called "CAKE", so this was a homage (creative genius) to that...and a photo of Rolane's booth, which was the cutest darn thing in the place, and an amazing "lady" with a cupcake liner bodice......inspiration was everywhere!!!!!

Moving, Creating, Packing, Creating...

2010-05-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

As happy as we are to be selling our house and downsizing...packing and creating at the same time has its challenges! Oh dear...lots of double shot espressos and energy drinks.....but it will all be worth it...!! xxooshari

Barn Bazaar, Spangle, Wa

2010-05-24T10:33:00.001-07:00

What a wild and wooley weather wise weekend! whew! Hail, wind, rain, sun,...but the customers were hardy souls and the show was great....lots of goodies...music & food & really fun people. The last minutes of the show on Sunday brought two customers in my booth who were just so fun and giggly - obviously great friends - so that was just a wonderful way to end the weekend in Spangle. Thank you Diana and Fielding for a great show in the country! Look for my goodies in the Vintage Barn booth at Farm Chicks in Spokane on June 5 & 6! xoshari

Two Women Antiques Show, Spangle, WA

2010-05-21T09:42:00.001-07:00

This weekend.....an antique & art & crafts show in Spangle, WA!! Setting up today (friday), then the show is Saturday & Sunday. I think the weather is going to cooperate..yippee!!! Should be a fun way to spend a weekend! Here are my latest goodies....dainty china necklaces.... oh my!
See you there!!!

Funk Junk Sisters May 14th & 15th!

2010-05-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

Change of plans....WAS going to participate in the fab Funky Junk sisters show this coming weekend in Puyallup, WAshington...
But...I have a dear friend from Aspen, co coming to visit and present her newest book www.jillshelleybooks.com in a presentation to the local school system in Sandpoint! We haven't seen each other for YEARS, so of course I wouldn't miss it...Jill is staying with us and I'm going to show her the town and have her see the craziness with the Lost in the 50's fun this weekend in Sandpoint. Her plane arrives at 2pm today...off to the airport!!!
....but visit Funky Junk Sisters and let me know how great it was!!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T20:18:00.001-07:00

As my readers know..I am from the South - Louisiana to be exact. I was born in Ville Platte, which is tiny town smack in the middle of cajun country. My mother, Georgiana, was also born there. My father was stationed in the area with the US Army and my parents met at a local dance and later married. I've been told that it was love at first sight...and since it makes a sweet story, I'm sticking with it.
I remember glimpses of my childhood before the age of 3...watching my mother hang clothes on the clothesline and picking blackberries behind our house. My most vivid memory is waking in the night, frightened and crying for my mum - and being told by our babysitter that she was in the hospital having my sister - her third child. At that moment, my life changed forever - Georgiana died in childbirth, along with Donna Rae, my little sister. My father was never the same after that, and we were raised by my mother's parents in Ville Platte. Even with such loss, my childhood was very happy on my grandparents small farm with lots of cousins and aunts and uncles ready to take on the task of comforting a 5 year boy and a 3 year old girl who had just lost their mother and basically, their father. Alot more details between that chapter and today, but I guess I just want to take this moment to send sweet dreams to my Mum and Donna and Daddy in Heaven. I have the gift of imagining that she is the perfect Mother and for that I am grateful. I have the gift of seeing my Mother's light in the face of my own daughter. I have the gift of God's blessing that He has given me strong women in my life who made sure I had a lifeline and a safety net. Mum, I miss you terribly. All these years later, there is still a missing piece of my heart. Of what could have been. But then....with tears in my eyes, I think of my bonus Moms...Aunt Rowena,Aunt Olivia, Aunt Ramona, Sande, Marilyn and Nita, Joanne. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. And to Kelsey,Tanner, Travis and Jamelyn -I love you all infinity and beyond. xxoomum

Queen mom!

2010-05-04T19:59:00.001-07:00

Just returned from Corvallis, Oregon where my son treated me like a queen...my sweet freshman...It was "Mom's weekend" at OSU and we had a great time!
Here are my double baubles with Queen on one side and a vintage crown on the other. 29" ball chain and a sweet little satin ribbon bow....
(photos were straight when I posted, then they rotated..what's up with that?)

Mother's Day Petite Shadowboxes

2010-04-26T10:20:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner and with that in mind...I've created some of my favorite shadowbox charm necklaces! The dragonfly was created with Kelly from GardenStone (airway heights, wa) in mind...the shop logo is a dragonfly....and this little petite shadowbox has a swarvoski crystal on the dragonfly (bling is always a good thing)...visit this beautiful store if you are in the area...easy to find...and close to the Northern Quest Casino!
The crown necklace is available in either blue or pink or cream (background) and says, "Queen of the Castle" on the reverse side...so cute!
The nest is handmade with glass pearls (eggs) and says "Love Warms every Nest" on the reverse...also available in blue, pink or cream....after all....Mommas everywhere create a "nest" for their loved ones.....
Necklaces are on 29" chain and retail from $24.00 - $26.00....Stop by one of "my" stores or email me and I will get one in the mail for your special "mom"....xxooshari

The Happiness Project

2010-04-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

My latest "plane reading" was this book - "The Happiness Project"..

kind of reads like EAT, PRAY, LOVE and I LOVED it....get a copy...I think you'll love it too!

Thank you Renee!

2010-04-23T18:20:00.001-07:00

Attending Art retreats are more than just creating...it's about meeting people with common interests...and art is all over the "board",..meaning you can express yourself in so many mediums...but we all have a common thread -
Last October, Vickie and I met Renee, from Oklahoma and it's like we've known her forever! Actually, Vickie met Renee first...then I chimed in, and well...sisters three! We planned on the Las Vegas retreat together and had another great trip!!
Lo and behold...after my return home...I get a HUGE box in the mail with this amazing wire "thingy"...and after consulting my neighbor at an art show..he informed me that it's original life was as a scarf/hat holder in probably what was a country store. So...even though I was already enthralled with it (and USING it in my show), I loved it even more! So thank you Renee, and also for the cute doll heads!!! I hope these photos give my wire "thingy" due praise, because it's just SO sweet!

Yippeee! Keys!!

2010-04-20T21:47:00.001-07:00

Well, kind of....had the back up keys IN the car and Mr. Policeman at Spokane International Airport was kind enough to break into my car for me! He's my hero! Actually, he's my HUSBAND'S hero, because it meant Chet didn't have to drive 1.5 hours to come get me....(and that's assuming that he would have..:) )
So...I'm home after a really, really, really FUN trip to San Diego, albeit short...but not a moment wasted. Quality, not quantity!
Oh, and I just read "The Happiness Project" on the plane! Such a great book...reads kind of like "eat, pray, love" by Elizabeth Gilbert.

Locksmith?

2010-04-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

Okay...so we all know that having BOTH sets of keys in your car is not necessarily the smartest thing...well...in THIS case..it may be a blessing!!
As I was boarding my flight last Friday...I heard the airport pager announcing that a set of keys were left at the southwest ticket counter.....oh dear...they were MINE! I guess I was so excited about hitting the beach...
Long story short...even though I called and was told they would hold them for me...Southwest dutifully followed protocol and sent anything left over 24 hours to their central clearing house in DALLAS, TX! My flight arrives this evening....no luck trying to get my keys BACK as yet..so I'm hoping that my other set is in the car and I can call AAA or a locksmith and behold...my OTHER set of keys will be there in the car.
Silly, silly me! I used to be such a responsible traveler....I will be home tonight..then again - maybe not!

DOLPHINs! STINGRAYs! PELICANs! oh my!!

2010-04-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

WOW! Stand up paddle boarding was A W E S O M E!! What an EPIC day! Dede and I went to La Jolla Shores with her paddle boards and were greeted in the ocean by several pods of dolphins swimming and playing within feet (INCHES!) of our paddle boards. We were speechless!! I wasn't as excited about the family of stingrays swimming underneath us but the pelicans dive bombing in the ocean for lunch was pretty cool.
WOW! Just an amazing day! Thank you Dede for the paddle lesson!! I just might have to get a board for fun on Lake Pend Oreille!!

San Diego,...continued...

2010-04-18T22:40:00.001-07:00

Having a great time in San Diego....these are photos of flowers (had to borrow a camera..forgot mine) from the Carlsbad Flower Farm...I used to go here as a teenager when it was just fields and fields of gorgeous color and we would roam around before we hit the beach. Now, it's a huge attraction with tractor rides and $$ to even get in the gates, etc...etc...although not my idea of progress...- Marilyn and I had a great time together jonesing after all the beautiful roses and ranniculus (sp)...and yes-we took the vintage tractor ride..which was actually quite fun.(that's Marilyn and i in the photo above) Then on to Kathy & Rick's in Carlsbad for dinner with the family...we laughed until my cheeks hurt! (and beyond!)
Yesterday was beach time with my wonderful artsy friend, Cheri and checking out her location in Del Mar for a Christian Art Retreat...beautiful setting...I'll have to keep you posted on that...we had lunch at Jake's on the beach...great fun...the weather is great..
Tommorrow is stand up paddle boarding with Dede...oh dear...not sure about photos of that one!!!!
xoshari

San Diego!

2010-04-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

I'm heading off to San Diego, Calfornia...my old stomping grounds...to celebrate two friends' birthdays!! woot woot! Of course, I have every moment jam packed with things to see and do, especially people I want to spend time with!
Happy Birthday Pam & Bob!!

Summer is around the corner

2010-04-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

You know..sometimes you feel like posting a photo just 'cuz it gives that warm and fuzzy feelin' of family...so here you go...
Summer fun at Priest Lake, Idaho - a pristine lake in Northern Idaho - our children when they were younger....Tanner & Kelsey and our niece Alex....just havin' some summer fun! I can feel the rays already!!

2010-04-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Wanted to show you some pieces that I have ready for the Funky Junk Antiques Show at the Irish Dance Hall Grange this weekend. 7 miles north of Spokane and it will showcase many creative vendors from the Northwest! Saturday April 10th from 10am-4pm and Sunday, April 11th from 10am-4pm. Should be fun and hope to see you there!
www.funkyjunkantiqueshow.com

The names are similiar but the Funky Junk SISTERs show is in May in Puyullap, Wa on May 14th & 15th! That show should be awesome too!! www.funkyjunksisters.com

The pendant "For the Love of Farm" is one that I created for Rolane Hopper at the Vintage Barn Show on July 10, 2010! Visit Rolane at www.barnbarnbaby.typepad.com
That is always a great show!! Right now her blog showcases Pam Johnson, a friend of mine who creates amazing jewelry and her husband is a master craftsman with birdhouses you'll want to bring home!

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T07:32:00.001-07:00

With the Easter holiday, it is a fitting time to show you my patina Cross necklace...I hope you all have a wonderful holiday.

Studio Time...

2010-03-30T11:38:00.001-07:00

I've been in my studio for a few days getting some orders out...I just LOVE the whole process.....especially decorating the boxes so they look kind of personal....a box just isn't a box anymore!!
One of my favorite things in my "spot" (besides my beloved Weller) is the vintage postal box that I scooped up at the Farm Chicks show in Spokane a couple of years ago. I mounted it on the wall vertically, then used it to house my stamp collection. Just love the peeling white paint, knowing that it served many a resident in its heyday delivering handwritten mail (remember those??). Love things with H I S T O R Y!! I wish I could say that my studio is deserving of a spot in the "Where Women Create" magazine...but..well - it's just my messy, wonderful spot where I spend an inordinate amount of time. It's complete with my little bunny mug of coffee...

A Gift...

2010-03-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

Loving this key shadowbox and I'm hoping the recipient loves it too.

Getting ready....

2010-03-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Just a few samples of things I'll have at the FUNKY JUNK show on April 10th & 11th in Spokane, WA!

Christmas in March?

2010-03-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

No, this isn't an old post...just Christmas in March! I've been meaning to finish this for awhile now...so while my hubby was watching the college basketball announcements (Gonzaga U. is playing in BUFFALO!)I thought I'd sneak this in and present it at my next show....it's always prudent to be early, right? This piece is created with vintage anagram letters (I applied vintage music on the backside of each letter so it would be equally beautiful from the back) and beveled glass. The back glass is flat. I carefully wrapped each piece with copper tape, soldered, then added the little solder beads. I think the beads really add "umph" to the piece. Of course, it wasn't complete until red bling was added with a few glass pearl beads. Voila!
xoshari

2010-03-12T15:46:00.000-08:00

Extreme Makeover, Final Edition!

2010-03-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

She's back!! Yep! a do-over! And I'm quite pleased with the results...so pleased that I had to drape some necklaces on Georgie that you may have seen before...but they look oh so much cuter this go 'round! I upped the "do" on her hat, also...I love the pattern paper & burlap flowers...but my art retreat buddy Renee-suggested that I dip them in glitter and voila! Oh yeah...a little glitter always makes it better! Thanks Renee! Can't wait to show Georgie off at my next show in Puyallup, Washington - the FUNKY JUNK SISTERS!! May 15 & 16th. Be there!!!
www.funkyjunksisters.com

Boise Town

2010-03-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

I'm back from visiting my sweet daughter Kelsey in Boise...we had a great, albeit quick! time together! Isn't it a m a z i n g when you see your children grow into confident young adults with lives of their own? Yet...it brings you back to a 3 year old when you hug them and they melt into your arms? love that....
Kels and I spent a late evening with Johnny Depp in Alice in Wonderland 3-D. oh my. trippy and wonderful movie....The Cheshire Cat was SO 3-d, it hurt my eyes! Fun.
I also had the pleasure of visiting one of "my" stores - Belle Boutique - in downtown Boise. What a darling shop!! Kelly is the owner and she was delightful...darling clothing and jewelry (but of course) with a flair for cool, edgy decor. And...her prices were great! And...lots of beautiful special occasion dresses upstairs too! And...and...and - I'm thinking that if you are in Boise Town, you should stop in - easy to find - right downtown on the corner..and the gorgeous Capitol building is completely restored and now open to the public again(down the street).
http://www.belle-boutique.com/

Georgie Extreme Makeover, part 2

2010-03-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

Here is Georgie with her "undergarments" on....she is out in the lovely sun to "dry"...
And I couldn't resist taking a photo of this beautiful day God has given us....the water is still out, so no boating yet...but I'll take the sunshine glistening on the water any day!!!! xoshari

Extreme Makeover, Georgie Edition

2010-03-04T14:39:00.001-08:00

I know what you're thinking..WHAT the heck have I done to poor Georigie? Took her legs right out from beneath her and then wrapped her haphazardly like a low-level mummy. aaahhhh....I say...just wait...she'll be back in no time after a beauty makeover that will make her a little more steady on her feet and skin smooth as well, smooth as silky canvas. This is....extreme makeover...Georgie edition...

Just havin' some fun....

2010-03-03T08:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a girl just needs to break from the "everyday" (although my "everydays" are never the same) and create something on the spot. Such was the case with this necklace. I took inspiration from Sally Jean and while watching the not-so-entertaining guys from American Idol...created this and thought I'd share. Whatcha think?
AND...watcha think about American Idol? With the exception of a couple of guys...I think the girls are going to take the microphone and run with it this time. I can't sing worth a chirp...but sometimes the guys are truly painful to watch!

It's good to be QUeEn!!

2010-02-25T13:13:00.000-08:00

Art and Soul, Las Vegas 2010

2010-02-25T08:56:00.000-08:00

Oh my, did we have FuN!! Nope, not a penny gambled-not one bit...kinda forgot about that whole thing...but boy did we have fun...right down to the balloon hats (hey, we make our own fun) and the amaZing window displays and the Bellagio fountains dancing to classical music! Oh, and the aRt! oh, the aRt!!! So,..with that said...drum roll please...is a necklace I created in Jane Wynn's class - and might I add, that Jane and her husband, Tom are the most genuine, generous people...always ready to help, give advice, encourage...they are the best! thank you!

Viva Las Vegas in ballon hats...(don't ask..)

2010-02-22T23:17:00.000-08:00

Funky Junk Sisters Show Coming soon!

2010-02-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

Alice in Wonderland..

2010-02-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

The theme for Art & Soul 2010 is Alice in Wonderful so of course I had to create a necklace for the event!! Just love the little teapot with Alice on the back with flying cards....My grandmother had given me a full recorded set of Alice's adventures on the big LP albums. (remember those?) I still have it. Such a treasure!

Charmed...I'm sure!

2010-02-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

More Southern Charms for you to see...the key necklace is one of my favorites. I find vintage keys and add bling and wire and I LOVE them! Each one is unique and looks awesome with an understated outfit to speak for itself! yummmm.....

Southern Charm...

2010-02-16T19:32:00.000-08:00

Off the Vegas with some goodies...and also just shipped an order to a new account...
McMenamins in Troutdale, Oregon!! I have visited their "sister" restaurant in Corvallis, Oregon (my son attends OSU) and it was great! So..I'm very excited that they have brought Southern Charm on board to their hotel/restaurant chain.
I'll keep posting photos of charms this entire week..so stay tuned! xxooshari

Art and Soul Retreat, Las Vegas, NV 2010

2010-02-12T23:31:00.000-08:00

One week from tommorrow....I'll be on a plane to Las Vegas for the Art and Soul Retreat..Yippee!!
I'll be part of the "vendor show" on Saturday night, then it's classes for the next three days, then whew! - a little museum "shopping" with Vickie (it's her birthday), so much fun and creativity abounds.
I'm not really a Vegas girl (so to speak), but I'm always up for paint, paper, glue and solder..so BRING IT ON! I've had a stressful couple of weeks and I'm looking forward to a little "plane book-reading" time and fun with Vic!
who knows...maybe I'll win a jack-pot on the quarter machines!

WHO DAT!!!!!!

2010-02-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

Who DAT!!! Oh yeah baby...this is the year that our New Orleans SAINTS are going to the superbowl!!! I'll be the first to admit that I don't really get football as I'm first and foremost a FUUTBALL (soccer) fan...but who can resist this fairytale story? And being from Louisiana, my heart is always with the cajuns!! Plus, you throw in the whole Manning legacy and it just makes a great true life story! For those who don't know....the Mannings (starting with Archie, the dad of Cooper, Eli and Peyton) are from neighboring Mississippi and were leaders in the Katrina recovery effort. I can only imagine that it is with great irony that they are rooting for their son, Peyton and the Colts, but at the same time bursting with pride that New Orleans is at the Super Bowl. Archie was a star quarterback at the U of Mississippi and was drafted by the Saints in 1971. Just a little bit of Saints history and we will be rooting for the NEW ORLEANS SAINTS on Feb. 7th!!!!!!
WHO DAT!!!!!

Fashion Icon

2010-02-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

I'm out town right now with my son in Corvallis, Oregon...so with a few minutes on my hands...I thought I'd share a bit of history with you. Ok,...a funny bit of history, at least in my mind! Behold..a photo of my sis, Kathy and I in Jan's wedding way back in the 70's, headpiece and all. If memory serves me correctly, I think we even SEWED our own dresses! oh dear...and we thought we were fashion icons! lol Thanks Rick...for a little ride down memory lane. (Rick is the keeper of the photos...)

Not just Moose Tracks! The Whole Moose!

2010-01-29T16:18:00.000-08:00

Mr. (or is Ms.?) Moose greeted me this morning right in front of my kitchen window...probably 2 feet away just peering in at me as my mind took a moment to register that this wasn't a horse (well, that would be odd as well). I grabbed my camera and opened my front door and Mr. Moose trotted off to visit the apple tree next door. I am still in awe of the wildlife here even after living in Sandpoint for over 17 years. Eagles in our backyard on the lake fishing for dinner and moose in the front yard. Totally amazing....Just had to share our piece of the animal kingdom!

Key to My Heart for Valentine's Day...

2010-01-21T11:56:00.000-08:00

It seems as though the uploading has a mind of its own sometimes...the key charms photo was straight....now crooked...think of it as a neck exercise as you peruse my latest charms, ok?
I just l o v e them! A dainty little key on a metal rectangle on which I have stamped "love you", and then sealed with hot wax and polished! Just begging for tiny dangles everywhere and a chain. These can be purchased as is for your own creations ($11.00 each including shipping), or as a completed necklace which I will post later. A labor of L O V E....
The other photo is a completed Vintage Key Necklace that is a "one of kind" creation...I just adore pulling from my nest of goodies to create these beauties (ok, just a stab at self-adoration...). They retail for $38.00 each and you can purchase this one directly from my blog (price includes shipping), OR you can visit Under the Sun in Bonners Ferry, Idaho OR The Shanty in Newport, Wa OR Zany Zebra in Sandpoint, Idaho! Also, Belle Boutique in Boise, Idaho will soon have a bevy of key necklaces of their own. The fun in visiting these darling boutiques is the tactile fulfillment of shopping where you can see a "collection" of one-of-a-kinds and find the exact one that speaks to you! Send your hubby/significant squeeze down to the boutiques for Valentine's day! xxooshari

It's Good to Be Queen

2010-01-18T15:57:00.000-08:00

You may remember my button shadowbox necklaces...but I have been working on an entire line of shadowboxes...I love to make them! It is unlimited, but I have crosses, birdies, dragonflies, crowns, fleur d'lis, buttons, glitter....I'll be posted them soon! I'll be going to Vegas (yeah, baby!) for an art retreat/show in February..so I've been keeping busy. Also, I like to surprise my wholesale accounts with new things as often as possible. "My" stores always get the first look at new designs! If you are in the area, visit these darling boutiques...

Belle Boutique
Boise, Idaho

GardenStone
Airway Heights, WA

Smith's Mercantile
Chehalis, WA

Sole Sisters
Helena, Montana

The Shanty
Newport, WA

Under the Sun
Bonners Ferry, Idaho

Zany Zebra
Sandpoint, Idaho

Check them out!
xxooShari

Fabric Postcards

2010-01-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I spent the day with friends creating fun fabric postcards...
Teri has an A M A Z I N G art studio (I should have taken photos...) filled with fabrics, trims and tools - all available to us to use while creating. This is a postcard I made for ___________ in honor of her birthday...of course,..she might be blog surfing, so I can't ruin the surprise! Teri made an incredible lunch and we finished with chocolate cake for Jill and Caroline's birthdays! Oh yeah...a great way to spend a wintry day! enjoy
p.s. sorry, I don't know why this is sideways...it was straight up when I posted!

Rain, rain...go away!

2010-01-13T18:21:00.000-08:00

It's January. It is supposed to be snowing. But it is raining and instead of wearing my snowboots, i'm still in my polka dot boots. Don't get me wrong...I LOVE my polka dot boots (thank you Gaily Girl), but I was kinda looking forward to snowy days curled up on the couch with a cup of hot tea. Well,... I hardly ever sit still and do nothing...but the thought of it is easier when it is snowing.

"Where's Little JOHNNY?"

2010-01-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is a first....As most of you know..Mr. Hubby and I own and operate a Mexican Restaurant in Sandpoint, Idaho called Jalapeno's.
This is a first...and we've been in business for over 20 years....

Scenerio-
Nice family comes in for dinner - 2 parents/4 children

Nice family has dinner

Nice family writes check, we thank them for coming in

Nice family gets in car and drives off

A few minutes later, a nice little boy emerges from the bathroom, & looks around
for the rest of his Nice Family

Nice little boy starts crying because he can't find his Nice Family, for they have gone bye-bye

We comfort the Nice Boy from the Nice Family, but he continues to cry and doesn't know his phone number

We continue to comfort Nice Boy (after all, most of us are mommys!)

We scramble to find out who Nice Family is and are relieved when we find out they wrote a check with cell phone numbers printed on it

We call Nice Family who are well on their way home with their other children

We alert them that they left Nice Boy #4 in the restaurant alone

Nice Family returns to claim their Nice Boy

Question: (at least in my mind) Ya think one of the other Nice Children would have said "Where's Little Johnny?" before they sped off the first time!!

All is well in the Nice Family and Jalapeno's staff is relieved

Whew! We could write a book! (but this was a FIRST)

More Southern Charm...

2010-01-08T22:42:00.000-08:00

A few photos of Southern charm...

Alone Again...

2010-01-03T16:59:00.000-08:00

Strange feeling....house is "empty", well, okay Mr. Hubby is still here but there are no kids and no kids' friends anywhere. It was really fun to have them home for the Christmas Holiday...but I was sad to see Tanner off today (and glad for him at the same time)...Kelsey already went back last week...so...just Mr. Hubby, Me and the princess cat left at home. Of course, they are supposed to go off to college and I'm so proud of them..but it always takes a few days to readjust and then..wow! amazing how the downstairs bathrooms just stay clean all by themselves! Yep, I think we'll be okay...

AVATAR...the movie

2010-01-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Wow...we went to see James Cameron's movie...AVATAR 3D - crazy animation! Typically, this is not my kind of movie..but we went with friends and family so it was an "event". The 3D thing really had my stomach doing cartwheels at times....it was great entertainment...but I think i'll stick to chick flicks!

Ring in the New Year 2010!

2009-12-31T18:23:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010! Wow, can't believe I'm writing "two thousand ten"!! Whoa. Two. Thousand. Ten.
Perhaps a fitting moment to give you a glimpse of some new things I'm trying out for the new year...I am so fixated on Paris..but then again...my last name IS French!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T22:38:00.000-08:00

I know...I've been very remiss at blogging...it's the Christmas season pace we keep...college kids home for break...trying to get last minute orders out...making sure that all is good in the world of Jalapeno's Restaurant...all good things...but it makes for a very busy Santa elf!
Kelsey flew back to BSU yesterday....and Tanner goes back to OSU on Sunday......it was fun to have "kids" around again with their friends and we've been having fun with our Wii! I have to brag that I'm pretty darn good at bowling..but not so much at the golf. I love the yoga too....so wierd how it measures your balance zone, etc. I'm feeling very "zen" lately...lol
This is our Christmas photo sans Jamelyn (in Texas) and Travis (in Maui) taken ON Christmas in front of our home on the frozen lake. Tanner styled the photo and we had to get down on the ice for a few shots. brrr! Then we skated around (without skates) - it was such a beautiful day!
I wish you the very best 2010! I've made a decision to (try) blog every day in 2010, even if it's a little blog-bleep....!!

A Dec. Post about Thanksgiving!

2009-12-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

oh dear..has it really been since before thanksgiving since I've blogged? Must be that time of year when there are not enough hours in the day to get everything finished! So,,,,here are some photos of our Thanksgiving table, it was casual elegance....had to get those photos in before the Christmas decor started!!
It's getting close, but there is still time for custom charms...with the glass wafers 1.25 inches round, too darn cute!! I just need good quality (300dpi) photos via email to www.sharif4@verizon.net Or you can send them to me via snail mail and I will take it from there...just email me and i'll take it from there! But do it soon, cuz Santa's elves are running out of time.....

Custom Charm Sweetness

2009-11-24T15:27:00.001-08:00

These are two custom pendant charm necklaces for Brenda, with the cutest darn photo of her and her sister in 1951. I placed them so you could see the front and the back. Hope she loves them! xxoo

2009-11-24T12:12:00.000-08:00

Mo' Bella

2009-11-24T12:07:00.001-08:00

Bella Pink Vintage .... oh sooo fun!

2009-11-24T11:51:00.001-08:00

Bella Pink was great fun...awesome vendors showing their homemade goodness (not to mention Pam with Be Whatever with her handdipped pretzels) and Tracie (our esteemed hostess) running around making sure we were all happy and excited!
Such a great turnout of guests...and a special shout out to Brenda, who came all the way from Post Falls to order a custom (did I mention ADORABLE) pendant! Brenda has the CUTEST photo of both her and her sister in 1951, and I will showcase the pendant later! I LOVE working on custom orders! Thank you Brenda for making the trip up North!
Jennifer and Kathy and Jennifer's cutie pie daughter drove from Spokane, Wa to spend a few hours with us, too. Jennifer and Kathy are the proprietors of the Vintage Show I just did at Nine Mile Falls, Wa. Check out their blog in my favorites!
Tracie, thank you again for a wonderful time..your homemade pumpkin bread was a m a z i n g! xxoo

We're SO Bella!

2009-11-17T21:33:00.000-08:00

A few photos of a fraction of what is to behold at Home For The Holidays! (doesn't that sound oh so grand?)
Hope to see you there on Friday, November 20th and Saturday, November 21st! Sandpoint, Idaho! Bronx Road....Hwy 95 approx. 2 miles North of downtown Sandpoint, follow the signs!

Bella Pink is almost here!

2009-11-17T17:33:00.000-08:00

www.bellapinkvintage.blogspot.com

Bella Pink Vintage this next weekend!

2009-11-15T17:44:00.000-08:00

Don't forget about this coming weekend's fabulous Home for the Holidays Show in Sandpoint, Idaho!!
go to: www.bellapinkvintage.blogspot.com

to find out more!!

Belle Boutique!

2009-11-15T17:23:00.000-08:00

We are back from our triumphant trip to Seattle!! Ok, one more plug for the OSU Beavers!! yippee!
Back to jewelry design, which never seems to be far from my mind (OCD perhaps or creative overload?)
Here are my button shadowbox charms created for the Belle Boutique in Boise, Idaho. SUCH a darling boutique it is, and a favorite of my college girl Kelsey! I'm so thrilled that they are carrying Southern Charm! If you are in the Boise area, stop by!

Belle Boutique
224 N. 9th Street
Boise, Idaho
208-345-1039

BEAVERS WON!

2009-11-14T23:37:00.000-08:00

As I promised...I'm back with the game results...happy to report than the orange/black team won 3-2!!! yeah OSU!!!! It was a great game! It didn't rain although it was quite cold, and we found Adam and Jessie from Sandpoint there to watch the game also. Always so fun to catch a post game hug from my son...!!
xoShari

Go OSU Beavers!!!!

2009-11-14T09:25:00.001-08:00

We are in Seattle at Tanner's OSU Beavers vs Uof Washington Huskies game! We beat them on home turf already, but now we are in Husky territory....if they win this game, the OSU Beavers have a good chance of going on to the NCAA Soccer tournament! Yahoo!! They have had a great year, and Tanner is livin' his dream of playing D-1 PAC 10 soccer (oh dear, have I mentioned that before?) we are excited for the game - Kelsey is flying in from Boise, and our good friends, Larry and Jill made the trip with us (thank you Larry for driving through the snowy pass..yikes). Of course, no trip to Seattle is complete without visiting Pikes Place market OR Anthropologie!
I'll check in later with game results!!

Sisters are Special!!

2009-11-09T11:24:00.000-08:00

My sister Shelley is 8 years younger than me..but we are very close even though I had moved out (and to another state, no less) when she was still young and at home.
I adore her and she just married her best friend, John - the wedding was so beautiful!
I also have "adoptive" sisters and we have SO much fun together and share many family memories that make me who I am today. (ok, a bit quirky...but to know me is to love me..)Just goes to show you that Sisters Are Special, no matter how you "get" them!
Here is a photo of Sisters Charm Necklaces that I made for a sweet customer from the Vintage Finds and Handmade Treasures show that I did this past weekend! It was great fun and the vendors were of amazing creativity and quality! It was like a "mini farm chicks" - no commercial products...just all handmade goodness!!
I won't say the "sister customer's" name just in case they are a surprise gift for her SEVEN sisters! Yes, I said SEVEN!! I can only guess that it was pretty difficult to get bathroom mirror time in that household growing up!

Who Let the Girls OUT?

2009-11-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!! This is a BIG weekend in the Inland Northwest!! Be sure to visit SHANTY Boutique in Newport, Washington for their fabulous "Who Let the Girls Out"? event that takes you through 7 stores in the area with a "passport" of fun and the chance to win great prizes...oh, not mention yummy treats! Don't miss it!! For more info, go to www.shantyboutique.com

And....drum roll....come see Southern Charm (ok, that's me..) and more vendors (Farm Chicks vendors, etc.) at the Nine Mile Falls Elementary School "Vintage Treasures and Handmade Goods" show! Amazing goodies will await you!!

I say.....make it an all day event and wind your way through Nine Mile Falls and on to Newport, Washington. A great way to spend a Fall day and make us all feel warm and cozy inside with a little retail therapy, not to mention Eye Candy all day. Get in the Holiday Spirit!!!

xxooShari

It is SNOWING!

2009-10-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of what I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to....but yes...it is snowing today! October 29th...ok, maybe not all that unusual..but couldn't we have waited until November?? Maybe I'll just tuck in today and create..yep..that's what i'll do.....happy day to all of you too!