TPJ Traveler!

I only have a few minutes here but wanted to touch base with you before my Christmas hiatus.

I know that this isn't Thanksgiving but after a song my kids did at their Christmas program last I wanted to tell all of you how THANKFUL I am to each and every one of you who have helped support The Prairie Jeweler in the past years.

In the past 7 months since starting my Etsy.com store and my blog I have had the pleasure of sending my pieces all over the United States. I even found a cool map to illustrate this little fact.

So, to each and everyone of you out there that have a piece of TPJ jewelry, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. I hope you have a beautiful holiday season with those you love.

Lots of peace love and baubles!

XOXO~

Michele
TPJ

Last Week

Just a little hint that this is the last week for custom orders if you want them before Christmas.

If you've been thinking of getting that something special for your someone special you've only got a few days left before we'll have to resort to priority shipping.


Items available in my store will likely make it to you on time with regular USPS first class up until the 18th but I wouldn't guarantee it one day past.

I'll be working on making more pieces with star conchos and other fun conchos that I've picked up so if you've been waiting for something to be listed just drop me a line, i could get to that first for ya if you bribe me just right!

Not a whole lot new left to share, seems I get half a dozen pieces done and then they are all gobbled up at shows. I'm not complaining but it kinda makes for a boring blog.

"Well Behaved"... or not~! Beautiful pink turquoise, sterling silver and clear Swarovski crystals. 2 strands and GOR-GEOUS!!

"Cocoa Rose" although she is already sold I just had to show it off... i cant wait to get my hands on more pink turquoise so i can make another one similar! There is sure to be a very happy lady this Christmas!!!

I have more new pieces but with the weather not cooperating I've been unable to get out to take pictures. If we end up iced in like they say we will tomorrow I think I'll tackle building a light box and do some indoor photos. FUN FUN!

OH and since I know there are people out there reading but my comments are so bare I'm going to throw out a little incentive.... I've got a number in my mind (i know... theres plenty of room among the cobwebs) and if your comment is the "magic" number you'll win 15% off your next purchase!!! Bring it on folks!

Until next time~

Peace, love and warm mittens
XOXO

~Michele
TPJ

Earring Addiction part II

Well considering I'm swamped with my 9-5, TPJ and the kids activities I think I'm doing pretty good to even remember i have a blog.


I had hung up my travelin' shoes to give myself and "Nelli" a break from doing the Art & Craft Shows but the AWESOME girls in Eureka have invited me to a fabulous event next week so Nellie and I will venture south once more before I take a little break for the season. I cannot even begin to tell all of you what a great group of gals the Eureka Cattlewomen are, they have become awesome followers and supporters of TPJ.



Now... on to my subject... Earring Addiction part II~!

"Caramel"- Gorgeous polymer clay by Sparklebee on Etsy.com. This gal is fantastic and so are these earrings. Super lightweight and very comfy.

"Billings Twist"- The perfect match to the "Billings" necklace on Etsy.com. Great little bit of spice to add to your collection.

"Gringo"- These were made to match the "Gringo" necklace but that darn thing flew off the "shelves" I'm in the process of making another so don't fret. These earrings are big but super lightweight and really fun. Get your Gypsy vibe on!

"Hearts"- These were requested by my daughter. Simple pink murano glass hearts with sterling silver. Not too long and perfect stocking stuffer for any little girl that loves pink. (Can be made with posts to make them a little shorter)

"Sorbet"- Now these are just a little more grown up... OK who am i kidding, these are totally Barbie!! Super cute pink swirled with sterling silver. What girlie girl wouldn't wear these?

"Sunkist"- Juicy orange wavy glass beads are just tasty looking. Very fun and bright.
"Plum"- Simple, elegant plum colored drops with sterling accents. Another great pair to have around.

Well... Blogger is mad and wont let me add any more pics... guess I will have to continue another time.

If you're in the area I'll be at:

HOLIDAY SHOWCASE Open House
WED. DECEMBER 5, 2007
5:30PM-8:00PM
EUREKA MEMORIAL HALL-North Oak Street

Until next time~
Peace, Love and Mistletoe

XOXO

Michele
TPJ

Fancy Pants!

Look at me go.... I'm blogging like a big girl!!

I've been busy busy busy lately, between shopping for the holidays and a show every weekend for the past 6 weeks then trying to get my creative juices going while my body is saying TAKE A NAP ALREADY!

You've heard me yap on about Analiese Designs on Etsy and her fabulous pendants... well here are some more of her beauties on my creations.

"Meadow" is a beautiful necklace featuring Ocean Jasper, Sterling Silver and the sweetest of pendants from Analiese Designs.

"Midnight Cowgirl" is another of my fun and sassy Cowgirl Pinup pieces. She's just about as hot as they get with her guns drawn and kicked back on the fence. I dare any double crossin, no good hussy to cross her path!

This is "Valley", so sweet and kind... you hope! This necklace has just about everything strung up on it, turquoise, jade, coral, quartz and sterling... you name it! A totally fun and funky piece to dress up your day!

I have another completed but it deserves its very own post... I'll leave you with a little teaser though.... ROCK CHALK!!!! Oh yeah.. you know it!

One more show has been added to this years schedule as well, this Saturday November, 24th from 9am-4pm in Osage City, Kansas for the Christmas Opener! Sounds like a nice festive celebration in a sweet little Kansas town. Come say hi!

Until next time~

Peace, Love and TURKEY!

XOXO
Michele
TPJ

Quickie!

I just have to show off Tina and her gorgeous ladies! I had the pleasure of working with Tina to design the perfect necklaces for her bridal party recently.

I know the pic is small but it was snagged from the Solars blog (be sure to check out their work, wow!) http://www.joshsolarphoto.com/

Tina chose to do a beautiful brown Swarovski pearl with clear crystal rondelles interspersed and sterling toggle closures. Simple but the perfect accent to the gorgeous bridesmaids dresses.

Congrats again Tina & Bryan!!!

Until next time

Peace, Love and pearls
xoxoxo

Michele
TPJ

24/7/365

That feels like my work schedule anymore! I have been so unbelievably busy and the upcoming Holidays are going to be a welcome break, of course my working will quickly be replaced by insane shopping... but I'm SOOOO ok with that!

Last weekend I had the pleasure of getting together with a great group of gals for the first ever HolidayMarket in Mission, Kansas. Had a great time and cant wait to do it again.

This weekend is the Burlington, Kansas Holiday Art & Gift Show. I've heard great things and this year is rumored to be the largest one yet. Very excited and hope you can come out to say hi!

Now on to the jewels:

Nelli sure does look spunky in "Gringo". This is one heck of a hot chunky necklace. Features tons of beautiful turquoise, gorgeous glass and fun shell beads. This one is a real show stopper!

Ahhh "Copper Caramel" now this one makes my mouth water. I've had the great pleasure of doing business with yet another amazing artist at Etsy.com. These delicious looking beads are polymer clay from the Etsian "Sparklebee" http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5250606

I am HOOKED on the beauty of these beads, and you would never believe how light weight this piece is. Compared to "Turtle" this one is by far much easier to wear.

And speaking of "Turtle" here it is:

HUGE turquoise beads and sterling silver, nothing better in my eyes (ok unless it was dipped in chocolate but that would be so messy). Now as i mentioned before this is a hefty piece and not to be worn by the weak. "Turtle" will have a matching necklace soon, well as soon as I can come up with a way to keep it from making you have a hunchback from the weight.

With that being said.... I better get back to work. I have many other new pieces not listed here but there just isn't enough time in a day I fear.

Until next time
Peace, Love and Turtles!

XOXO
Michele

Slackers raise your hands!

*HERE HERE HERE*

I know I neglect the blog so badly but at least once a week is better than nothing.

Seems things just never slow down. I've had a great time working the weekend Art & Craft shows lately and still have 3 more dates on the calendar. If I haven't had the chance to meet you prior be sure to come out to any of the next 3 to visit my booth and pick up some super hot Christmas gifts for the jewelry lover on your list.

Last weekend I had the pleasure of being in Madison, Kansas for their Fall Arts & Crafts show, even made the Emporia Gazette. Thank you all that came out to shop.

"Starr" was created in my downtime between getting my set up completed and the doors opening for business.

It features my favorite spur rowel pendant but with a twist this time. A gorgeous silver star really grabs your attention on this one. The long turquoise beads are quickly becoming a favorite of mine.

"Bit" earrings are a great compliment to the "Starr" necklace. They might be small but they are mighty.

And last but not least.... my fondness of cowgirl PinUps lives on.

"Honky Tonk" is already sold but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fun. I have at least 6 new pinup girls coming this way! I'm so excited.

So if you are in the area you can catch "Nelli" and myself at the following destinations in the coming weeks:

Saturday November, 3rd
Cattleman's Day
Eureka, Kansas
9am-3pm

Friday November 9th
HolidayMart
Lucky Brewgrille
Mission, Kansas
6pm-10pm

Saturday November 17th
Holiday Crafts & Gifts
Burlington High School
Burlington, Kansas
9am-4pm

Hope to see you there!

Until then
xoxoxo

Peace, Love and peaches
~Michele
TPJ

HolidayMarket....

Come one Come all!!!





Some of the Metro areas coolest gals have pulled together to host the first ever HolidayMarket at Lucky Brewgrille in Mission, Kansas!

There is going to be something for everyone so come get your Holiday shop on!!!

Uppercase Living, Home Decor

On Occasion, Maternity Tops and Onesies & Stationary

Tastefully Simple, Food and Goodies

Pampered Chef, Cooking Gadgets

Embroidery

Paper Mill Designs, Stationary

Photography

Retrospective Design, Photo Montages

Mary Kay

The Prairie Jeweler- handmade jewelry

Premier Jewelry

Arbonne

Cant wait to see you at one of the upcoming shows! Christmas is right around the corner!

Until next time~

Peace Love and Lollipops!
XOXO
Michele
TPJ

Latest addition to the TPJ crew....

Well I've finally found her.... Please meet Nelli- the new TPJ model.

I had this idea of what I wanted in my head but could never seem to find just the right bust or dress form, then I found the perfect dress and still had nothing to put it on. Then out of the blue I find out that Becky at "Olde Glory" had found just what i was looking for. I got down to the store that next day and there she was (holding up an old piece of fence with her "neck")!!

Nelli!!!! I scooped her up quicker than you could blink. She even rode, seat belted in the front seat on the way back to my office. Then, nekked as a jay bird, I proceeded to haul her into my office to show off. Thank God my co-workers aren't surprised by this stuff when it comes to me! She sat on my desk for the rest of the afternoon. OK so at one point I put my shawl on her as to not offend the boys here.

Now she's at home in my dining room, donning the fanciest 1940's party dress and rocking some great jewels!

Keep an eye out for Nelli and I at our upcoming shows!

Until next time!
Peace, love and frilly bits

XOXO

Michele & Nelli
TPJ

Quickie!

Hey a "quickie" is better than nothing!

Here's a little sneak peek at what I've got to work on this coming week or two.

More beautiful-ness from the ever talented Etsy goddess Analiese:
I cant wait to work with these great pendants~! This has to be a favorite of mine for sure:

I am also working on a beautiful set of brown pearl and crystal necklaces and earrings for another fabulous Kansas City bride! My KC girls are just awesome and have some fabulous taste!

Well... I'm up to my ears in jewels and beads so i better get to working!

Next "live" performance (he he he) will be in Madison, Kansas on October 27th. Catch me there!

Until next time....

Peace, Love and Hot sauce
XOXO

Michele
TPJ

Earring addiction!

I think I've managed to form an earring addiction lately.

The "Love me Knot" earrings were originally designed for my aunt Marcia at the Spring Open House. This pair are done in a beautiful neutral Picasso jasper with sterling silver findings.

I love these earrings! "Minted" is the name of the bracelet that goes with these earrings. Beautiful mint alabaster faceted globe and Swarovski crystal with Bali silver accents. They may look big but as they say... "Go big or go home"!

The simplicity of "Graduated" appeals to just about anyone. These are a great "go to" pair of earrings when you are in a rush and just need to grab something and go!

"Wooded" are all kinds of earthy. The beautiful Picasso jasper and wooden looking beads are a great combination. Sterling silver swirls around the top 2 beads like a breeze.

"Global" look like little globes of the earth being cradled by beautiful Bali silver. I usually like bigger earrings but for some reason i think these make a great statement without being bigger than a thought. "Global" also go great with the Denim Blue "Cowgirls Dream" necklace featured in my last post.
Aaahh "Gypsy" how i relish the thoughts of wandering in search of wonderful treasures. These earrings are made to compliment the "Gypsy" necklace mentioned in the last entry.


So many earrings and only 2 ears... whats a girl to do? Oh that's right, buy them anyways, they are just like shoes, you can never have enough!

Until next time~
xoxo
~Michele
TPJ

Stocking Up!

With all of the upcoming Art & Craft shows I've really been working hard on getting new pieces done. I think all of my creative juices have been put into jewelry thus leaving NOTHING witty to write for the Adorned blog. *sigh* So I guess I shall just share some of the newest pretties. That's what you're here for anyway isn't it?

This piece is without a name so far... and that is completely unlike me! So bring on the suggestions.

Beautiful Carnelian chips and frames accented by sterling silver and a fire opal Swarovski crystal. This piece is right in time for fall. Matching bracelet available.

Another "Cowgirls Dream" this time in Denim blues! Gorgeous Denim Lapis accented by blue fossil beads and sterling silver. This time the signature spur rowel is covered in Montana Blue Swarovski crystals.
You'll notice this one is a little on the "lighter" side since it is only 2 strand but believe me that doesn't effect its beauty!

This one is unnamed as well... see... I have no more creative abilities... its like kryptonite to Superman.

This pendant was such a find, beautiful turquoise and coral embedded in fun, fancy metal work. Although it is not sterling like I would have preferred it still has this ancient, antique feel to it that is just phenomenal.

My next entry will be dedicated to all the fun new earrings I've been making. Just a hint... each of the necklaces seen here have matching or complimenting earrings available too!

So until next time~

xoxo~
Michele
TPJ

Football Time!!!

Although I don't follow college football as much as one of my dearest friends I sure do know how you can sport your team!

Not long ago i introduced ya'll to a fabulous artist on Etsy.com named Rachel of Analiese Designs. The great University Mascot pendants featured are once again from her talented hands! The best thing, she can do just about anything your little heart desires. So if you have an image in mind just drop me a line and we can get it all worked out!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk GO KU!!! Beautiful Crimson and Blue! This necklace features red and blue fossil beads and accented by sterling silver and red swarovski crystals. Corky!!! My kids adore Mr Corky ever since Emporia started doing the "Corky on Parade" around town. Again wire wrapped style (this is super durable for rowdy tailgate parties) Faceted black glass beads and ESU gold fiberoptic beads. Think there is even a little onyx thrown in for good measure. All finished off with a sterling silver toggle clasp.

And lastly the Powercat from KSU. It pains me to have so much purple around me but I guess not nearly as bad as if I made a Pit State Gorilla.... LOL.. OK so seriously.. I guess I could if the price were right. Heck I'd even make a Dallas Cowboys necklace if the price were right (of course I'd have to be disinfected afterward! I can already hear the sighs and growls now)

Not that it means anything but this particular necklace is already sold and on its way to a dear friend of mine in Kansas City.

I have so many new pieces to share... just no time to even get them photographed it seems. I promise to work on that today if the clouds stay at bay this afternoon.

Next date to catch TPJ in person:

Holiday Art Boutique
Saturday Ocotober 6
8am- 1pm
Potter-Beath Activity Center (north of Walmart)
2931 West 24th
Emporia, Kansas

Until next time
XOXO

Michele
TPJ

Wild Ride!

Wow... what a wild ride this last month has been! I'm really beginning to wonder how long I can keep this pace up, kids, work, business, more business... and all the while trying to keep my creativity going! I'm definately going to have to find some ways to keep the creativity flowing!

So, last weekend I dove head first into the world of Art & Craft shows and let me just tell you this... I could not have been more pleased with the turn out! I was so nervous, had all the typical first timers fears. "What if nobody likes my stuff, what if I don't sell anything, what if something bad happens like my canopy blows away or some wild gang of purple haired skateboarders decided to use my antique tables as a great ramp!!! ((yeah that last one was such a typical fear of every crafter LOL)) But in the end (and by end I mean 12 hours later) I was overjoyed with the success and response!

If you didn't come see me this is what it looked like. I cant wait until i can buy a nice EZ up with sides!

So in between schmoozing and selling i managed to complete a couple pieces as well:

This is "Crystal Cross", its a beautiful long strand for clear crystal chips with Onyx chips in for contrast. All anchored by a beautiful antiqued sterling flourish cross.
Next is the Pink version of my most popular design, the X's & O's bracelet!!

This fall is looking busy for me so if you're looking to get out and enjoy some great Arts & Crafts be sure to look for me at the following places:

October 6th
Fall Arts & Crafts Bazaar
Church of the Nazarene
Emporia, Kansas

October 27th
Madison Fall Fest Craft Show
Madison High School
Madison, Kansas

November- date unknown
Cattleman's Day Art Show

November
Mall Magic Arts & Crafts Show
Flinthills Mall
Emporia, Kansas



Until next time~
xoxo
Michele
TPJ

We've got "SPIRIT" how bout you.......

Oh lordy... channeling my inner cheerleader there... yikes! I guess years of cheering and dancing as a "kid" still makes me associate the coming of Fall with Football and team spirit. So, to keep with the changing weather (ok so technically its still hot as can be here and the only reason the leaves on the trees are turning is because they are BURNT to a crisp) and seasons I have for your viewing pleasure my new "Spirit" design.
NHHS and EHS letters immersed in a funky Mother of Pearl frame with team colors accenting! What a great way to show your team spirit. Also available as a custom order with your favorite sport charm or for the "Team Mom" I can add "Cheer Mom", "Football Mom" or other "mom" charms. Super cute way to show off your kids team!





Now for your little "Darling". The "Darling" design is perfect for any little girl in your life. Totally customizable with name, colors and charms. This specific design features a great clasp with extension so your little girl can wear this from infancy up to age 8-10. Makes a beautiful keepsake.
This set was designed for a pair of sisters. The "Lil Sis" & "Big Sis" charms are sterling silver and the name is accented by pink Swarovski crystals.
What a great way for "Big Sis" to welcome her new baby sister!

Well... I'm off to work on more pieces. Don't forget the big Great American Market is this coming Saturday in Emporia, Kansas. Blocks of beautiful downtown Emporia will be blocked off for your shopping enjoyment. There will be everything there from quality handcrafted goodies to the kitchen sink (literally). PLUS who can resist the "Nun Tacos"!! TASTY! Come enjoy a beautiful day of shopping and bargain hunting. The Prairie Jeweler will be set up in the 500 block of Commercial in front of Flint Hills EyeCare.

Until then....
XOXO
~Michele
TPJ