tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80386831193838188522024-03-14T06:12:16.992-07:00Magpies Trick~ shiny distractions and surreptitious trivialities ~Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-91262259016576481122011-10-25T10:20:00.000-07:002011-10-26T10:33:11.441-07:00Tuesday TreasuryWe have a new baby! Well, really, we're just babysitting, but we're still very proud of this baby. We have become the new Team Captains of the wonderful Etsy team Lean On Me. Our team founder and captain, the lovely owner of BellinaCreations, is taking a break as captain of the team due to often-debilitating heath problems, but when she is well again, she might resume the role. Fortunately, she is remaining as Team Leader and will still be participating as much as she can! Thank you BellinaCreations for trusting us with your baby! <br /><br />To celebrate our team, we created a treasury filled with wonderful items that are 100% Lean On Me! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTAzOTM2NjN8OTYwNTQ3NTM2/carnival-of-mirth?ref=pr_treasury"></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTAzOTM2NjN8OTYwNTQ3NTM2/carnival-of-mirth?ref=pr_treasury"></a> <br><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo48FIR6ZGqSddgehL6dnciWGB2Nji2aeqBpL6D02DA-Nn93EFJv2L_wWgb6ORoJyWPxA76243Y2PqPMVIjYcwSOELnrgau2YGSuLEl8m05rJUyCEP0RA-pzbSA3_qJGW2_uyCKcRPOjM/s1600/treasury.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo48FIR6ZGqSddgehL6dnciWGB2Nji2aeqBpL6D02DA-Nn93EFJv2L_wWgb6ORoJyWPxA76243Y2PqPMVIjYcwSOELnrgau2YGSuLEl8m05rJUyCEP0RA-pzbSA3_qJGW2_uyCKcRPOjM/s320/treasury.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667854000202191570" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTAzOTM2NjN8OTYwNTQ3NTM2/carnival-of-mirth?ref=pr_treasury"></a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-3784149498489431192011-10-21T16:57:00.000-07:002011-10-21T17:03:01.267-07:00Friday FindsWe LOVE Fridays, don't you? We try to start the weekends off right by doing something fun on Friday nights, even if it is just eating dinner in front of the telly as we watch a film! That sounds rather boring, now that I think about it...does that mean the magpies are getting old? <br /><br />Let's not talk about age...let's move on to our Friday Finds! <br /><br />I am in love with this wonderful body spray by Harmony5. I really wasn't sure how all of the fragrance notes would work together in this scent, but oh my goodness, this is such a warm spray that still has a hint of clean, crisp, wintery air! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82964541/frosted-winter-berry-body-spray-1-oz"><img src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_fullxfull.275042475.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a> <br><br /><br />This is my new "go to" fragrance. This might be a limited edition seasonal item, so I might need to stock up!Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-67793361467771816762011-10-19T12:42:00.000-07:002011-10-19T13:04:41.703-07:00Wednesday WisdomSome days are wonderful and everything in our little corners of the universe is filled with joy. Some days are wretched, no good, nothing-is-going-right-and-I-want-to-hide-in-my-room-and-sulk days. The printer decided to be a trial and a tribulation, I forgot where I left my car keys AGAIN, the lady at the post office was rude to me, there's a hole in my favourite socks, the new soap recipe I tried was a horrid failure, the dogs barked all day, on the way to the clothes line I tipped over the basket of clean, WET laundry into the dirt, I set the smoke detector off TWICE making dinner...we all have those days that seem to be a veritable litany of woes. Let's move on, shall we?<br /><br /><br />Finish each day and be done with it.<br />You have done what you could.<br />Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in;<br />Forget them as soon as you can.<br />Tomorrow is a new day;<br />Begin it well and serenely<br />And with too high a spirit<br />To be encumbered with your old nonsense.<br />This day is all that is good and fair.<br />It is too dear, with its hopes and invitations,<br />To waste a moment on yesterdays.<br /> -Ralph Waldo EmersonMagpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-73794597028482939682011-10-14T11:12:00.000-07:002011-10-14T11:24:06.308-07:00Hello Again and Friday FindsGoodness, it's been a while, hasn't it? I think I have discovered why blogging is so difficult for me...I feel like I should only blog if I have something important to say. I am beginning to realise that needn't always be the case. SO, here we go again, trying to get into the blogging swing. <br /><br />Today on Facebook, we started a little something new. This is what we said: "We come across so many wonderful things on Etsy, so we think we should start showing you some of the things we love. How about we call it "Friday Finds"? SO, here is the first Friday Find! This watercolour is incredibly ethereal and filled with emotion. We bought another serene watercolour from this artist, and we have it prominently hanging in our work room. It gives us peace."<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79662184/misty-lights-original-watercolor"><img src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_fullxfull.263500609.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a> <br><br />We're such fans of LaurasFineArt, and sometime soon we plan on adding another one of Laura's pieces to our wall. Not only is she a talented artist, but she's also a very kind person, and we're grateful there are nice people like Laura on Etsy! Click on the painting to visit her shop.Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-10138931774663042012011-07-09T12:25:00.000-07:002011-07-09T13:15:59.188-07:00Teach A Man To Fish.For many years, we have helped support a charity that is close to our hearts, <a href="http://www.heifer.org/">Heifer International</a>. Heifer International is different from most charities. Heifer says this about their work:<br /><br /><span class="poetry">"By giving families a hand-up, not just a hand-out, we empower them to turn lives of hunger and poverty into self-reliance and hope. With gifts of livestock and training, we help families improve their nutrition and generate income in sustainable ways. We refer to the animals as "living loans" because in exchange for their livestock and training, families agree to give one of its animal's offspring to another family in need. It's called Passing on the Gift – a cornerstone of our mission that creates an ever-expanding network of hope and peace."</span><br /><br />A hand-up. A HAND-UP. This is why we love Heifer International. This is why countless family and friends have received "gifts" from Heifer International given on their behalf: chicks, ducks, bees, goats, and even a pig!<br /><br />We have decided that every month we will add something to our new shop category <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick?section_id=10131105">SALES FOR CHARITY</a> and every dollar of that sale will go directly to Heifer International to buy something from the <a href="http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.204586/?msource=TH1E110001">gift catalog</a>. This month, we will be using the money from our sale to buy someone in need <a href="http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.2667525/?msource=TH1E110001">a flock of chicks</a>. Actually, since this is our inaugural month, our "grand opening" of a sort, we're adding <i>TWO</i> things and donating <i>TWO</i> flocks of chicks!<br /><br />How can you help? You can help by telling your friends and family about Heifer International, you can buy gifts of animals for holidays and birthdays, and you can tell other people about our new shop section. This month we have these items for sale:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://http//www.etsy.com/listing/62883230/charity-sale-fluorite-and-sterling"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.238458737.jpg" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72878867/charity-sale-pink-pearl-and-sterling"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.238962606.jpg" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnvsuR4oX_AoObtsjN5XB4iJwZResn9MYyCQpRQxgFsbJO7tDLEZShhcVhCmzb9Z-Lcg_x93P2INT3Sa_nAil_zVqAcRhH-LQLMdweb4Fo_tO0H-nX4eKlVCFIJZXijv7p9m__ygLaQA/s1600/Chicken.Large.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 235px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnvsuR4oX_AoObtsjN5XB4iJwZResn9MYyCQpRQxgFsbJO7tDLEZShhcVhCmzb9Z-Lcg_x93P2INT3Sa_nAil_zVqAcRhH-LQLMdweb4Fo_tO0H-nX4eKlVCFIJZXijv7p9m__ygLaQA/s320/Chicken.Large.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627448409283822402" /></a></center><br />Thank you, from the bottoms of our hearts, for helping us help others.<br /><br />"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."<br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-72033362838758613662011-06-28T13:47:00.000-07:002011-07-09T13:05:25.787-07:00Lean On MeSometimes Etsy can seem like a big scary world in which it is hard to find a place to belong. We've been very fortunate to find a nice place in the Etsy community to meet new friends and chat with genuinely nice people! Let me show you a few of the lovely things that have been created by some of our talented team members.<br /><br />Presenting Team Lean On Me. Click on the photos to visit the associated shops.<br /><br /><center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71551351/3x3-beaded-picture-frame-pink-and-purple"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.233451704.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />hempkitty's gorgeously beaded photo frame.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58627747/spring-trees-original-landscape-oil"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.182179015.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />Laura's Fine Art. I want to visit these serene woods.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71748986/ooak-pink-green-rose-peridot-swarovski"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.234286739.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />Bellina Creation's ethereal and dreamy vine and crystal tiara.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74327036/gold-silk-laced-corset-with-swarovski"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.245032651.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />remedynz's breathtaking silk corset with crystal beading. <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52760526/mixed-media-collage-art-pretty-vintage"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.162544799.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />rrizzart's whimsical and poignant mixed media collage.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68745937/beaded-victorian-lace-necklace-in"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.221745709.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br />Beadful String's intricate beaded lace necklace. <br /></center><br /><br /><br />These works are just a small sample of the incredible talent that is in Team Lean On Me. We're terribly proud to be part of this wonderful group of people!<br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-71847647937714638932011-06-15T12:27:00.000-07:002011-07-09T13:05:55.075-07:00Leaf EarringsI made some sterling silver leaf and smoky quartz earrings, and I thought it would be fun to share some of the process. The photos are clickable to enlarge. <div><br /></div><div>First, I gathered my materials:<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEvRcMpBlEi3OLzQln9MVu6Ux8lZBJRTnjDU2Tv8p8l7rZExMTZpoFBwqPeX9VLEGogM2X0qyVaex_z9kRoIU6qJPl9BVU7-7B6-tqIwWrTXLcEDOtFLLlccCTwASXaavNvbAjjmxyv4/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEvRcMpBlEi3OLzQln9MVu6Ux8lZBJRTnjDU2Tv8p8l7rZExMTZpoFBwqPeX9VLEGogM2X0qyVaex_z9kRoIU6qJPl9BVU7-7B6-tqIwWrTXLcEDOtFLLlccCTwASXaavNvbAjjmxyv4/s200/LEAFearringsWIP1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618532308117425650" /></a><br /></div><div>Then got ready to solder my basic leaf shapes. Looks like the teenager decided to graffiti the charcoal block:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5L-5GntUCdrk5mj9ycLM016aJeUHsnhLL3utgowrpc1isxT06icB-WQRoHJYyYTO-qwFZgYSI8hitHOM2G0j4JP2CDVDY-Z0M6rcQ-0ixOhl42Qnx_kpxCnGCuoUDSDFut8Xy_oAg750/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5L-5GntUCdrk5mj9ycLM016aJeUHsnhLL3utgowrpc1isxT06icB-WQRoHJYyYTO-qwFZgYSI8hitHOM2G0j4JP2CDVDY-Z0M6rcQ-0ixOhl42Qnx_kpxCnGCuoUDSDFut8Xy_oAg750/s200/LEAFearringsWIP2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618532244332142818" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Soldering the leaf pieces closed:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKsM8qVt9jgDjA3gMpCNKgB69J-mYpv0FAdROvEC5HWPK_uLeS9O26wv3v6IUXbSWxI9EDm6hy4GOJJsMU9bdRqHBzVIgBti7Tne_CiwZQcegTdlC_hP35gV4ZMKyqaK0JIc5lau15-I/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKsM8qVt9jgDjA3gMpCNKgB69J-mYpv0FAdROvEC5HWPK_uLeS9O26wv3v6IUXbSWxI9EDm6hy4GOJJsMU9bdRqHBzVIgBti7Tne_CiwZQcegTdlC_hP35gV4ZMKyqaK0JIc5lau15-I/s200/LEAFearringsWIP3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618532166302359970" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>After soldering, I used pliers to form the final leaf shape:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeenKi94yd6Pdd-IXiPbFKQx3DOAgccseMltAooxVFYsvzukGWOcoYpD1qU6Pv224Fkzr4qQOJnFf2f0fM39eyIwQkBGiDAGkOQfri_TzLC9KVhIbtR_ywIQtTvMMWGAnupJkeKAVJvQ/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeenKi94yd6Pdd-IXiPbFKQx3DOAgccseMltAooxVFYsvzukGWOcoYpD1qU6Pv224Fkzr4qQOJnFf2f0fM39eyIwQkBGiDAGkOQfri_TzLC9KVhIbtR_ywIQtTvMMWGAnupJkeKAVJvQ/s200/LEAFearringsWIP4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618532079592320530" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Leaves need stems (and stems make convenient places to attach other parts of the earrings):</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dD4iz6oxnD_0mOOuJbnCC2-8eE3yReHS2h6XzvFBnClEPZyMukhehdagnTnkhod2wMp76-4A0pM3b5d_yNzfPXxjHzy2XsV0hReTUAc9MS4LzajkJYXUJ-u57-HzVry1WMp-aWFPteE/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP5.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dD4iz6oxnD_0mOOuJbnCC2-8eE3yReHS2h6XzvFBnClEPZyMukhehdagnTnkhod2wMp76-4A0pM3b5d_yNzfPXxjHzy2XsV0hReTUAc9MS4LzajkJYXUJ-u57-HzVry1WMp-aWFPteE/s200/LEAFearringsWIP5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618532019035001858" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Melting wee pieces of solder to affix the stem. Fire burn and cauldron (flux, in this case) bubble:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNo5rVuKVewdp9Xp9R3MDdhXgLt3B356C1tOo0qJWKbrKtHNFNPVzCrQs3ryulp6agAh-64ZNvRtjnkzFUCAP4pTyJuJQoQVCL7qu8_IFx6GENtwZNUwdtLcocGtIsCNCehsaGQ3-aLk/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNo5rVuKVewdp9Xp9R3MDdhXgLt3B356C1tOo0qJWKbrKtHNFNPVzCrQs3ryulp6agAh-64ZNvRtjnkzFUCAP4pTyJuJQoQVCL7qu8_IFx6GENtwZNUwdtLcocGtIsCNCehsaGQ3-aLk/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNo5rVuKVewdp9Xp9R3MDdhXgLt3B356C1tOo0qJWKbrKtHNFNPVzCrQs3ryulp6agAh-64ZNvRtjnkzFUCAP4pTyJuJQoQVCL7qu8_IFx6GENtwZNUwdtLcocGtIsCNCehsaGQ3-aLk/s200/LEAFearringsWIP6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531934766898738" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And next come the veins:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBHdWI5Yxx7OLlv3MS6g3h42c5EwlmGLaUzYqOcrhO8u6_0hXYeks8Q3g-TbS85OiXq5-b_xvGCZwgKJsR0hw3jwEZ2Ec5XGjwt25d1ufzMrhMOuMMHe7xyBczHuh3svtLs_84o2yRPM/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBHdWI5Yxx7OLlv3MS6g3h42c5EwlmGLaUzYqOcrhO8u6_0hXYeks8Q3g-TbS85OiXq5-b_xvGCZwgKJsR0hw3jwEZ2Ec5XGjwt25d1ufzMrhMOuMMHe7xyBczHuh3svtLs_84o2yRPM/s200/LEAFearringsWIP7.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531857770643314" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>First one is finished and very messy. I never said I was the tidiest jeweller ever! I wasted a lot of silver:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0hJXNFmbNCNGLG7ck3C6G5D5fuBxwm3Vkhwxqroua8SxQMRDn9iEoas6u_Qj_9rGHa7mRZ0Rrgdh9W7eiZ8roIcol_adUdqrZrn_b9QOiUf156zBMDSnn7xgsDCKgRq0OQFC1L9Puk0/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP8.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0hJXNFmbNCNGLG7ck3C6G5D5fuBxwm3Vkhwxqroua8SxQMRDn9iEoas6u_Qj_9rGHa7mRZ0Rrgdh9W7eiZ8roIcol_adUdqrZrn_b9QOiUf156zBMDSnn7xgsDCKgRq0OQFC1L9Puk0/s200/LEAFearringsWIP8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531806105762978" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> I tried to do cleaner work on this one so I wouldn't have as much filing work and silver waste. The second leaf is MUCH tidier!:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KlT8qvuFFjEXe2IKtRjnVJg6hgVKn0Bvc-bFHH1lWmt117R7c60B5-61xEimK1qOcjCBUooSEGFxCyxT-NWk37RPeBXDsd1-xuD6-14A8zvS-E3_la6mquKgfPHIf3M292ZztvaJoeg/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP9.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KlT8qvuFFjEXe2IKtRjnVJg6hgVKn0Bvc-bFHH1lWmt117R7c60B5-61xEimK1qOcjCBUooSEGFxCyxT-NWk37RPeBXDsd1-xuD6-14A8zvS-E3_la6mquKgfPHIf3M292ZztvaJoeg/s200/LEAFearringsWIP9.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531742561963666" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Well, except for the firescale and flux residue, that is. Ick:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx1u195H28W0Witej4OMgfa5bGh9nuMij4v_ta1c-z4y59ON-c4rUHjMCjOIDkP2KXWmT6q-X0u1uBdo69FYYxFvt7mifPrWKvkl-Rgy0ycrwxZXTWYeEYbe-ovMd3wCMj_oE3Uaps9U/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx1u195H28W0Witej4OMgfa5bGh9nuMij4v_ta1c-z4y59ON-c4rUHjMCjOIDkP2KXWmT6q-X0u1uBdo69FYYxFvt7mifPrWKvkl-Rgy0ycrwxZXTWYeEYbe-ovMd3wCMj_oE3Uaps9U/s200/LEAFearringsWIP10.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531669452627618" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Cleaned, filed, polished, smoky quartz briolettes wire-wrapped and attached, and ear wires made:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW7AAl1mVA69PIpZR5MItsnnbuO6CTXK9EBLBaar8Qp7q29EabDlRckUJ74j0tA6YIXNZuyUwk54k-RgWVZQQMiROAXNzb-tV20yAb5hFSGefWGhn1u1nIv3MmDfS6eL2X24ITqSHZN4/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP11.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW7AAl1mVA69PIpZR5MItsnnbuO6CTXK9EBLBaar8Qp7q29EabDlRckUJ74j0tA6YIXNZuyUwk54k-RgWVZQQMiROAXNzb-tV20yAb5hFSGefWGhn1u1nIv3MmDfS6eL2X24ITqSHZN4/s200/LEAFearringsWIP11.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531602504546898" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Oxdised, polished again, cleaned again, ready to sell! TA-DAAAA! As I've said before, soldering and metalwork isn't my strong area (that is the exact reason that Derek sets all of the cabochons!), so any time I have a success I am insanely pleased with myself. I'm very happy with how these turned out:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFVvf-uYGQanI8CrZXQoOmah4__8QoUWF-mpMW1rAR7DZy8hIS4hLjvLvXLu47WZ19jhoYCpZ5LAr5Q-8-3ll_xE6dOS8wnAF7vFRi8Jp83SQdteE9mLw7_vjJD9O7crmUex1kgSGaIM/s1600/LEAFearringsWIP12.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFVvf-uYGQanI8CrZXQoOmah4__8QoUWF-mpMW1rAR7DZy8hIS4hLjvLvXLu47WZ19jhoYCpZ5LAr5Q-8-3ll_xE6dOS8wnAF7vFRi8Jp83SQdteE9mLw7_vjJD9O7crmUex1kgSGaIM/s200/LEAFearringsWIP12.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618531544011207874" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: Smoky Quartz </span><br /><span class="shimmer">Quartz helps to clear away negativity. It is believed that quartz is one of the most protective gemstones and it will guard the spirit as it enhances spiritual growth and wisdom. It is beneficial for cleansing the emotions and heightening creativity and inspiration. Quartz aids in concentration and retaining information. A master healing stone, quartz elevates energy and can be used for any condition. </span></div><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-45811235440948476732011-05-16T16:08:00.000-07:002011-07-09T13:06:44.400-07:00Being a Grown-up Is Fun!One night this past weekend we were up late working on some projects. I was working on this (but that's a blog post for a different day):<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMuR1PkDfs8KmuCNjZjFMpBU_szATLOPtIdlcoQe7N0VR3QZJulAO7NBssh29TsegfXYMiALPe6eULfZeaiamkkf6ix2T5vbjxrW9JT5HekBsdkdoX7kYdxGzd03Uq8spWDwtq28WzoA/s1600/smokeyQUARTZleafNECKLACE1.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMuR1PkDfs8KmuCNjZjFMpBU_szATLOPtIdlcoQe7N0VR3QZJulAO7NBssh29TsegfXYMiALPe6eULfZeaiamkkf6ix2T5vbjxrW9JT5HekBsdkdoX7kYdxGzd03Uq8spWDwtq28WzoA/s1600/smokeyQUARTZleafNECKLACE1.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607455547292049058" /></a><br /><br />We lost track of time, and suddenly it was 1:00 in the morning! How did that happen? As I waited for Derek to finish up one last thing, I decided to do a quick art project. Luckily (?), the teen was hanging around with a camera to capture my masterpiece.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWcF4EzsqkNNjGDZ0aonuB0Cmu35Fo6WtwoyuWQHfJClSvH9nplA9mJoZ4tg_NYFFAqUqf6T1qj7NpeCPnPPvUExbjW-yQYizY9bUS7atJx-O3KaJZ0KQCJioLqY4UwxRTLMyBWeqt8w/s1600/mustache1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWcF4EzsqkNNjGDZ0aonuB0Cmu35Fo6WtwoyuWQHfJClSvH9nplA9mJoZ4tg_NYFFAqUqf6T1qj7NpeCPnPPvUExbjW-yQYizY9bUS7atJx-O3KaJZ0KQCJioLqY4UwxRTLMyBWeqt8w/s1600/mustache1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607456381835967874" /></a><br /><br />I get silly when I'm tired. <br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: Smoky Quartz </span><br /><span class="shimmer">It is said that smoky quartz can help you be more in touch with the universe. This is a stone of comfort and calming and is believed to be very helpful in relieving grief and depression. Smoky quartz can help in making sound finacial decisions and in managing money wisely. </span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-60419543351339992352011-05-10T19:03:00.000-07:002011-05-11T08:52:08.866-07:00As well as being Etsy sellers, we're also Etsy buyers. I often use "black bird" for search terms and I want to share a few of MY favourite things I've recently seen on Etsy!<br /><center><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62611185/hand-forged-songbird-vermont-blacksmith"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.199695826.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63076031/magpie-art-watercolor-original-8x10"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.239120622.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65439623/gun-metal-black-lidded-jar-with-a-bird"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.206298252.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65507503/painted-bowls-with-birds-in-flight"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.206569699.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67499335/three-handmade-polymer-clay-birds-great"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.214684890.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/53061075/northwestern-crow"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.163546087.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br />And a white bird for good measure:<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72881852/clay-bird-handmade"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.238992843.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="300" /></a><br /></center><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: BLACK SPINEL </span><br /><span class="shimmer">-Black spinel is a protective stone; bolstering one's own inherent strength, hope, and will. Influencing both mind and body, black spinel aids in refreshing both the physical and mental states; improving physical mobility, as well as helping to stay grounded when dealing with difficult inter-personal situations. </span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-7861775805531103232011-04-30T08:12:00.000-07:002015-08-28T09:43:22.237-07:00Differences of OpinionAs with all couples, sometimes Derek (Mr. Magpie) and I have differing opinions on things. One of my favourite recent creations is this lovely peridot necklace:<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQEQUHPO97nzC41q3hdyvMDfy2JkvIm2ynBf0D3p0RaHvL6uLJY8_tdBhjYomV_oC7YFgd9xNYruqDzut99hnNDsI5ZRlcqdt5gFBKHyiDJ4n7URt5_ZTXEEuQHY8A1hgo-TgCB8BNatg/s1600/trogdorORIGINAL.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQEQUHPO97nzC41q3hdyvMDfy2JkvIm2ynBf0D3p0RaHvL6uLJY8_tdBhjYomV_oC7YFgd9xNYruqDzut99hnNDsI5ZRlcqdt5gFBKHyiDJ4n7URt5_ZTXEEuQHY8A1hgo-TgCB8BNatg/s400/trogdorORIGINAL.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601395523071159362" /></a><br />I was quite proud of this piece as it came to me whilst listening to "Stairway To Heaven" and I knew I needed to make a necklace that went with my favourite line "If there's a bustle in your hedgerow, don't be alarmed now. It's just a spring clean for the May Queen". When Derek came home from work, I hurried to show him my work. His response? "Oh that is so COOL, you made Trogdor!" "What? Trog-WHAT?" He then showed me this video:</div><div><br /><iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/90X5NJleYJQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br />and tried hard to point out the similarities in this photo:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUTd1EL5twQQZHIXAaWfFaqnPPZUBsaUTmJdAgD74p1yckJkGgvBcPLpTA9bnFUaLoeKvGH8sk5xtD1nLTtipbp_ei-j-AAHkIGmyihRUSNezloTZpds4VHKGOjH6HqFY0fL6O503bvw/s1600/TrogdorRef.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 327px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUTd1EL5twQQZHIXAaWfFaqnPPZUBsaUTmJdAgD74p1yckJkGgvBcPLpTA9bnFUaLoeKvGH8sk5xtD1nLTtipbp_ei-j-AAHkIGmyihRUSNezloTZpds4VHKGOjH6HqFY0fL6O503bvw/s400/TrogdorRef.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601398405597733010" /></a><br />"Noooooo, I don't THINK so. This necklace is called 'Hedgerow'....."<br /><br />In a last ditch-effort to convince me this was, indeed, a representation of Trogdor, Derek presented me with this image:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVSebPlM76fdg8ozZ8pqmr1xeEELSeushON2lKpaW5QjowhQI66t9VRNS3_VSuOw237gBPdhCAYNrrTXgpjAEhiYz091kM-e96ye61MBRDSF7IUS-YUZN3AQdfpcPI9M9O6veh285jdE/s1600/TrogdorAfter.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVSebPlM76fdg8ozZ8pqmr1xeEELSeushON2lKpaW5QjowhQI66t9VRNS3_VSuOw237gBPdhCAYNrrTXgpjAEhiYz091kM-e96ye61MBRDSF7IUS-YUZN3AQdfpcPI9M9O6veh285jdE/s400/TrogdorAfter.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601399096137457858" /></a><br /></div><div>Sometimes boys are so strange.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: PERIDOT </span><br /><span class="shimmer">Peridot is said to assist with healing emotional wounds. This stone can help you see romantic involvement clearly and with greater understanding. A Visionary stone, it brings understanding of destiny and purpose. It is believed to slow aging, lessen anger, fear, and jealousy, and to facilitate the birthing process. </span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a></div>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-84906165611431844792011-04-23T08:26:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:13:54.271-07:00Day Date<div><span class="Apple-style-span">Mr. Magpie took the day off work yesterday so we could have a "day date", and our date took the form of a trip to the international gem show here in Austin. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Our feet are tired from all the walking, our backs are sore from bending over to look at all the lovely gems, and our bank account is severely depleted, but look what we came home with!</span></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYgx2UVn7IboDXcR6lF5f7v2j051im8HO98uwIaMkCCGkO1KyctUC1GQHSW4oWzgddXvYyWp56DRnvy0O40_Hhdirp0VA5RWXfRQ620tvt_LRcSwXwOP58sixE89qnxfqG0MDqmVX5ZA/s1600/gemshow.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 373px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYgx2UVn7IboDXcR6lF5f7v2j051im8HO98uwIaMkCCGkO1KyctUC1GQHSW4oWzgddXvYyWp56DRnvy0O40_Hhdirp0VA5RWXfRQ620tvt_LRcSwXwOP58sixE89qnxfqG0MDqmVX5ZA/s400/gemshow.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598801839107844834" /></a><span style="font-size: 85%;">Top to bottom (deep breath): BIG Rainbow Moonstone briolettes, Gray Moonstone briolettes, Pyrite focals (left), BIG Labradorite briolettes, smaller Labradorite briolettes, Mystic Blue Topaz, Blue Chalcedony (left), multi-coloured Chalcedony (right), yellow Chalcedony, mossy Prehnite, GIANT Baltic Amber focal (left), HUGE Prasiolite (green Amethyst) briolettes/focals, tiny rondelles of various gems, Tourmaline, Peridot, Hessonite Garnet, Carnelian, Peach Moonstone, Rainbow Moonstone rondelles, Sapphire rondelles, HUGE Sapphire briolettes, Ruby rondelles, BIG Ruby briolettes, GINORMOUS Ruby focal, Garnet briolettes</span><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span">This is the MOST money and largest amount of gems in one shopping trip. We've been looking at all the sparkles and flashes all morning, and the ideas keep flowing! We are incredibly happy magpies today, and are thrilled with our hoard. </span></div><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: RUBY </span><br /><span class="shimmer">Ruby is said to be a stone of love and wisdom. It helps with decision making and improves the outcome of controversy and dispute. Rubies aid in bringing about and strengthening romantic love. As ruby is a stone of energy, it is believed to increase energy, vitality, and strength and can assist in relieving exhaustion.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-90080318078869952032011-04-14T10:44:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:54:53.287-07:00Inspiration<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Inspiration comes from unexpected places. One morning, I was lying in bed looking about our room. I love our bedroom so very much. It is a sanctuary, a haven. It reminds me of this poem:</span></span></div><br /><br /><center><span class="poetrytitle">The Dream Keeper</span><br /><br /><span class="poetry">"Bring me all of your dreams,<br />you dreamers,<br />Bring me all your heart melodies,<br />that I may wrap them in a blue cloud cloth,<br />Away from the too rough fingers of the world"<br /><br />-Langston Hughes</span></center><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">Except our room is red and shades of gray instead of blue. But I digress.....</span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">As I was looking about, I paid closer attention to a night-light hanging in front of our window. I repurposed an antique birdcage and filled it with things we've found along the way.</span></div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6l3QlqQik8v87fzB3isPUG0DEDXjNlribV2daV1-sj-7uJiSIg__cqKTWpSwVDXw-f9sqzIamdp-hDZKuzcrV22jQOTCd1bF-Uu7yVtVq8F2lNEwhpWUN7SB8VCb42J7rsNn-aEexia4/s1600/INSPIRATION1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 366px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6l3QlqQik8v87fzB3isPUG0DEDXjNlribV2daV1-sj-7uJiSIg__cqKTWpSwVDXw-f9sqzIamdp-hDZKuzcrV22jQOTCd1bF-Uu7yVtVq8F2lNEwhpWUN7SB8VCb42J7rsNn-aEexia4/s400/INSPIRATION1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595498965772229794" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">My eye was drawn to this: </span> (There is no dust there. You do not see dust. This is not the dust you are looking for).</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOViKaxfX9DJgEkzmrzYR2OFnq4VnxjMMiOAnrLCSJnqaoyItdrdDMs0Zfgr6N9fOg4cVfYvsbjGqKUbbGF0vFguhltEr-XK-9sqz7rJ7fUcx3-apJ9hM28eLz1pDJgUpLM3w5qYjwoZc/s400/INSPIRATION2.jpg" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">From that tiny bit of scrolled iron which caught my eye on a Saturday morning, came this:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitaJwk8rm499_GUwDQ8ELIkWjeqhi66SxF1F7adz1IXRuJ7pjcqqxz5c0x61c5AhKt2BK2F90u0KxpQfnKriklX7fMCTWQk_gtzU5HqRy45AMpuxbOlkP1aVg9D1A87mVJmwakNTf-HxU/s400/garnetNECKLACE1+copy.png" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Inspiration. You never know...</span></div><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: GARNET</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Garnet is said to be a stone of romantic love and passion. It is believed that garnet causes one to have positive thoughts and increased energy. It can aid in self esteem and success in business. Lore suggests that garnets assist the blood, heart and lungs, prevent nightmares, and alleviate depression.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-21472058193378336192011-02-02T13:23:00.000-08:002011-04-26T19:56:19.424-07:00Cold Winds.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEPMOJoY5v6J-tiQXBNMSqpDuyMMwxXBh-7Pejor9ieJaea2mt9ss0ea_ewM0jBOnmU4fRlQ__rxH1f9jmP65uW2NiE3jr66IoMguSPnv1YOzUn7pezoIK8eUXCqMvO2fwiONJSvDWPk/s1600/clearQUARTZcicrleNECKLACE3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEPMOJoY5v6J-tiQXBNMSqpDuyMMwxXBh-7Pejor9ieJaea2mt9ss0ea_ewM0jBOnmU4fRlQ__rxH1f9jmP65uW2NiE3jr66IoMguSPnv1YOzUn7pezoIK8eUXCqMvO2fwiONJSvDWPk/s400/clearQUARTZcicrleNECKLACE3.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569207254517135394" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="poetry"><center>The North wind doth blow and we shall have snow,<br />And what will poor robin do then, poor thing?<br />He'll sit in a barn and keep himself warm<br />and hide his head under his wing, poor thing."</center></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">It is a VERY cold week in Austin, and we're expecting ice and snow. We've been under a severe winds advisory...ideal weather for staying indoors and making pretty things! Icy, clear quartz crystal is perfect for weather such as this.</span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: QUARTZ</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Quartz helps to clear away negativity. It is believed that quartz is one of the most protective gemstones and it will guard the spirit as it enhances spiritual growth and wisdom. It is beneficial for cleansing the emotions and heightening creativity and inspiration. Quartz aids in concentration and retaining information. A master healing stone, quartz elevates energy and can be used for any condition.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-41305464977127443062010-10-01T11:02:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:21:59.581-07:00Autumn is here!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbho6JyDrNnbbi_FuEX_CMcnrOgezIVBNiLi-uq9KAq3DRmihOLuC_c0pdzeAeuFDzhkTjZ68r1kcQJIIJOzHhXPGs5-HUdSWognu9lQ92hwg9MCEKABJTavupb0g5wiSo2oUWwbpOH4A/s1600/CarnelianNecklace1.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbho6JyDrNnbbi_FuEX_CMcnrOgezIVBNiLi-uq9KAq3DRmihOLuC_c0pdzeAeuFDzhkTjZ68r1kcQJIIJOzHhXPGs5-HUdSWognu9lQ92hwg9MCEKABJTavupb0g5wiSo2oUWwbpOH4A/s400/CarnelianNecklace1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523140802352745874" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Time for bursts of orange, yellow, red, rust. Time for harvest, time to celebrate the shortening days and the cooling air. Light the fire, give thanks to the Earth, honour the dwindling year.<br /><br />Gorgeous carnelian focal from <a href="http://www.magpiegemstones.com/"><b>Magpie Gemstones</b></a>. This amethyst whispered stories of elixirs and potions...</span></span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: CARNELIAN</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Carnelian is helpful in making choices and decisions, particularly those geared toward success in a career. A stone for focus, carnelian can assist in self-motivation and self worth, and reminds one to live in the present. It is said that carnelians can protect from rage, resentment, and anger in self and from others.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-31138621338100937512010-09-16T10:33:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:22:47.921-07:00Violet Elixir<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPUnKMe4zaSiH_UdQMtPhw8g9Fenh2nr5pn6u6AekpJxrewgVoMPjuvd05nHzfFgp6Ae8k-73w_qMz5bVz7E13zrPiUW4kv-TqdAnZnY4Ylgd7VT68eCxzWKt9vWHbOmy3IXzSxVUTDs/s1600/Purple!01.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 327px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPUnKMe4zaSiH_UdQMtPhw8g9Fenh2nr5pn6u6AekpJxrewgVoMPjuvd05nHzfFgp6Ae8k-73w_qMz5bVz7E13zrPiUW4kv-TqdAnZnY4Ylgd7VT68eCxzWKt9vWHbOmy3IXzSxVUTDs/s400/Purple!01.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523135516172755442" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">We went to a gem show where we found some lovely focal gems from <a href="http://www.magpiegemstones.com/"><b>Magpie Gemstones</b></a>. This amethyst whispered stories of elixirs and potions...</span></span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: AMETHYST</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Amethyst has a calming and soothing effect. It promotes healthy sleep habits, healthy change, shrewdness in business, and aids in quickening the mind to help control negative thoughts.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-22447860730857441302010-07-28T15:13:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:25:04.558-07:00Rainy Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj84VvOTYh9A15kMa_T_Vt3C3R6Lb4UXyHV6Cz9YSQy9Mp1WdK0su0mkZGHuiDaaGkcrxsajAF8jxHIb3j7BIqMMbZNkryRX55XF42lS_k-xGih1Eb7ZKuP3fm12njllnbqlLRcQUd8Kcw/s1600/stormyN1-02.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj84VvOTYh9A15kMa_T_Vt3C3R6Lb4UXyHV6Cz9YSQy9Mp1WdK0su0mkZGHuiDaaGkcrxsajAF8jxHIb3j7BIqMMbZNkryRX55XF42lS_k-xGih1Eb7ZKuP3fm12njllnbqlLRcQUd8Kcw/s400/stormyN1-02.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499085205328495122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">It is a rainy day...gusty winds, dancing clouds, a few glimpses of blue sky every now and again. PERFECT weather! Days like this are made of labradorite. This necklace perfectly fits the feel of our lovely stormy skies</span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: LABRADORITE</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Labradorite is said to provide relief from anxiety and depression, to dispel negativity and to enhance clarity of thought. This stone can help you cooperate harmoniously with others. Labradorite can increase perseverance and strength during times of change and conflict. </span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-10057940592036536452010-07-20T10:28:00.000-07:002011-04-26T19:16:40.874-07:00Anniversary<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEQlLHkfs3dSTybF-YeSOegf0bJna8cfEgPUZGnKD0XUCpLb2FkS16JjSdkXnc-kmYGHYQOz5PIxLhTsBwVTHomNPg8kvq1Aq1potjzKBPHPhJNpmTR0gy2vj8bAnHbWYwFAq0A1_EP8/s1600/30388_1311583022439_1016543331_30738431_4461167_n.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEQlLHkfs3dSTybF-YeSOegf0bJna8cfEgPUZGnKD0XUCpLb2FkS16JjSdkXnc-kmYGHYQOz5PIxLhTsBwVTHomNPg8kvq1Aq1potjzKBPHPhJNpmTR0gy2vj8bAnHbWYwFAq0A1_EP8/s400/30388_1311583022439_1016543331_30738431_4461167_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498274095153578258" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Today marks the wedding anniversary of the magpies! We awoke to our very first Etsy shop sale...isn't that an auspicious start to another year of togetherness?!</span></span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: GARNET</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Garnet is said to be a stone of romantic love and passion. It is believed that garnet causes one to have positive thoughts and increased energy. It can aid in self esteem and success in business. Lore suggests that garnets assist the blood, heart and lungs, prevent nightmares, and alleviate depression.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8038683119383818852.post-51336094443833800662010-07-17T10:25:00.000-07:002011-05-16T19:50:12.421-07:00GRAND OPENING<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Happy birthday, Magpie's Trick! Today is the first day our little Etsy shop is in existence. This is exciting!<br /></span></span></span><br /><br /><span class="shimmertitle">Shimmer of the day: CITRINE</span><br /><span class="shimmer">Citrine is known as the "success stone" because it promotes success, prosperity, and abundance. It particularly promotes success in business, earning it another nickname, "merchant's stone". Citrine is a stone of good fortune, although it brings good fortune in sometimes unexpected ways. It is a stone of manifestation, helping manifest abundance in many ways. Along with prosperity and good fortune, citrine imparts generosity.</span><br /><br />Visit us at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MagpiesTrick">Magpie's Trick</a>Magpie's Trickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436818406272274446noreply@blogger.com0