Christmas Decorating and Memories

As I am typing, Peanut and Button are decorating the rather misshapen tree.  The traditional Christmas music is playing thanks to Pandora, and the lights are sparkling.  Decorating the tree has always been a joint affair with myself organizing and the boys adding things at random, only for me to secretly rearrange everything that evening one they were in bed.  

This year, both boys are in charge.  Right now, there is a red and silver theme emerging.  Red and silver horizontal stripes to be precise!  Once layer red tinsel and balls, the next layer is silver tinsel and balls and so on up the tree!!!  Add to that, both boys are bickering and taunting one another as The Nutcracker plays and Howard Stern seems to blast forth from the kitchen where Hubby is cooking dinner.  There is a decidedly new feel to this traditional moment.  Oh, Peanut just asked Button why he just flicked his butt???    Lovely!

And yet, as we discover our treasured ornaments and school-made creations that adorn our tree, we all take a moment to look back and cherish our past memories.  Happy moments and joys.  Seeing my teenager and tween get all sentimental over this makes my heart fill with joy.  Traditions are important to them, as important as passing them down is to me.  

Fundraising and Fun

Life has been busy for us in the Z household.  Both boys are doing very well at school, getting used to seventh and ninth grade, and enjoying their sports.  Living with a tween and teen has certainly opened our eyes to the new challenges of parenting (oh boy do I miss the younger years!)

I have definitely found some extra time to myself now it is no longer cool to hang out with mummy.  I have very mixed feelings about this, but I am happy to say that I am putting my time to good use.  I have been doing a lot more fundraising of late and we have made great strides with our two featured charities; Light The Night and CureSearch.

September has come and gone, the traditional month of Childhood Cancer and Blood Cancer Awareness.  Many gold bracelets were sold for CureSearch, and I was careful to add a mix of support charms and charms such as the butterfly which symbolizes support but can be worn on any occasion.  In fact, these gold bracelets have become popular with many customers who do not have links to childhood cancer.  They just love the way the bracelet looks.  The donation is a bonus!

Click on the photos to shop for these designs.

In October, we walked with Light The Night as always.  We actually raised over $2000 to help those fighting leukemia and other blood cancers.  We enjoyed a lovely walk in Connecticut this time, along with close friends and family.  We all said a little 'thank you' for the survivor walking with us.

A Summer Trip to North Wales

It has become a tradition for my mum and I to meet up in England and then head to North Wales for a little holiday in the wonderful Abersoch area.  Situated on the Llyn Peninsular, we were treated to sea views and the majestic mountains all in one place.  I call this my Happy Place.

We stayed in a fabulous B&B called Tide's Reach in Criccieth.  The sea fronted townhouse boasted the most gorgeous views and was overlooked by the 15th century castle atop the hill.  

The view from the front guest room at Tide's Reach. 

Our twin room at Tide's Reach was lovely.  Best of all were the English/Welsh breakfasts cooked each morning for us!  

Looking up at the castle from our B&B.  

 Little old me on the beach outside our guest house.  Morning strolls were a blessing!  

Not every day provided glorious sunshine, but the chance to enjoy the fresh air and seaside feel was too good to be missed.  a stroll alongside Abersoch Harbour and the walkway to one of the beaches at this vibrant seaside town was a great time to catch up on our news and stretch our legs.

Each of the benches alongside the walkway to the beach was dedicated to a loved one who had passed.  What a truly beautiful place to be remembered.  

Right at the tip of the peninsular is Aberdaron, a sleepy little Welsh seaside village with one of the best beached around!  The l13th century little white house is now a cafe, but it used to serve as a resting place for monks traveling to a nearby island where there was a monastery.  

A truly beautiful beach but be warned....the name of this paradise is Hell's Mouth.  Ships have been wrecked by the hidden rocks on many occasion.  The sand, while seemingly so inviting, is also known to have quicksand-like properties.  Yet is it a real draw for surfers who love the waves coming into this cove.  We prefer to enjoy this gem from afar!  

They say home is where the heart is and I have to confess I could live in the village of Llanbedrog with this landmark boathouse, "Foxhole' on the beach.  As a child I would see this house from a distance, from the rocks I used to climb at the far end of the mile long beach.  Now we stay at the side with the little cafe and sandy beach area, and look more closely at this charming little house.  

Of course my careful eating plan went out the window while I was on holiday with my mum.  We enjoyed the fresh foods of North Wales and discovered some really charming eateries.  (More on that in a future post.)  I also got to share some of my jewelry pieces with the locals and get inspiration for new lines too.  

Finally, the door I fell in love with.  In the heart of Llanbedrog, right next to the little church, sits a house with this door.  I imagine it could belong to a Hobbit, or a Lord of the Manor, or be a doorway to a mystical land.  That's how I like to think about doors!  

Join me soon for more on my trip to North Wales.  It was a refreshing and much needed break which recharged my positive energy.  

Links are provided to help you learn more about my Happy Place.  I am not affiliated with any of these places and receive no payment for sharing them with you.  

Let me know where your Happy Place is!  

Light The Night Walk Video

May is Lupus Awareness Month

Many readers will not have heard of Lupus.  Those that know this autoimmune disease will probably have a connection to it somehow.  They may have it themselves, know a loved one or a friend with it, or have seen the purple ribbon but not really thought too much about it.


Lupus is a cruel and debilitating disease that attacks the body in a number of evil ways.  The immune system breaks down and sufferers are open to all sorts of other diseases.


The Lupus Foundation of America shares the following information:

• Lupus is not contagious, not even through sexual contact. You cannot "catch" lupus from someone or "give" lupus to someone.
• Lupus is not like or related to cancer. Cancer is a condition of malignant, abnormal tissues that grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, as described above.
• Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS the immune system is underactive; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.
• Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
• Our research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. The actual number may be higher; however, there have been no large-scale studies to show the actual number of people in the U.S. living with lupus.
• More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country.
• It is believed that 5 million people throughout the world have a form of lupus.
• Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age (15-44). However, men, children, and teenagers develop lupus, too. Most people will develop lupus between the ages of 15-44.
• Women of color are two to three times more likely to develop lupus than Caucasians.
• People of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus.

Lupus warriors need support and heightened awareness.  Butterfly Warriors Jewelry has created jewelry in the color of Lupus..purple.  Wear this jewelry in support of someone or give it to them to inspire hope for a cure.  

Lupus Awareness

Home Office Makeover - Part Two - My Creative Space

So here it is...the big reveal!  For those that just found my little blog, read here to get the back story (with horrific photos of the before).  I am now a happy crafter and creator of beautiful jewelry.  I am now able to breathe, I am now....back to the way I should be!

My initial inspiration for the minimalist 'white walls' look came from a couple of places.  I spotted this Pottery Barn wall and fell in love with the organization.  The white walls created clean lines and I saw the details in the photo.

Home Office Makeover - A Space of My Own - Part One

New Year came and went and I managed to avoid making any crazy resolutions I knew I would not be able to keep.  I did manage to have a completely mad moment and decide (on New Year's Eve) to completely redecorate my little dumping ground that was supposed to be the office.   As you can see, it most definitely was NOT a place of creativity, productivity, or meditation.

That's just not a space one can be creative in!!!! 

So I toddled off to the local DIY store and stocked up on supplies to transform my space into a sanctuary for creativity and self expression.  My chosen color...bright white.  The reason for this choice is so I have a completely blank canvas from which to work.  I can display my jewelry, add pops of color, change the mood with accessories, etc.  I want FREEDOM from any constraints, and white spoke to me.  I began a Pinterest board with ideas for my new office and just loved all the 'white with color' ideas.

Craft Fairs and Booth Displays...Oh My!

 My, things sure have been busy around here.  I am a full time teacher but my jewelry has been taking over more and more of my time.  Business is growing and my enthusiasm for creativity has led me into the world of craft fairs.  I got my feet wet during the summer at a BIG arts show.  I was terrified...I and no really idea what I was doing, I had no real display items and I definitely had no sales experience.

But in I went...and had a very mediocre experience.  I was surrounded by 'professionals' and my tiny table really got lost in the mix.  My nerves meant I became far to reserved to actually drum up trade, and my inexperience led me to drop prices ridiculously low (think no profit low) and it really put people off.

I think I have a stubborn streak in me, however, as I actually felt more determined than ever to make my mark at craft fairs.  I wanted to learn how to do it, how to become a major presence in the sea of artisans selling their wares.  I am not there yet, but I am definitely improving.

Get ready for September with Summer into Fall Bracelets

Indian Agate is a natural stone that can bring about emotional, physical and intellectual harmony. Energy can be stabilized and positive and negative forces brought into balance. 

I cannot believe I am about to say this, but....I'm gearing up for back to school!!!!  That is a double whammy for me as it means we are heading out of the lazy days of summer, and I am frantically preparing to teach my new group of fourth graders who will be anxiously awaiting my brilliance :)

I do love to start fresh in September, a new outfit or two, highlights weaved into my hair and a good cut to see me into the winter....and LOTS of new jewelry!   I cannot say how many times I have worn an old outfit and still had people ask if it was new.  It is usually because I am wearing a new piece of jewelry along with it...it really works.

Summertime Happiness

Captain's Cove Connecticut

I have had a great summer so far.  One of the major perks of being a teacher is the HUGE block of time I get to become a 'mommy' again.  I treasure the time with my kiddos more than anything.  BUT... they are getting older and much more independent.  They no longer want to paint and make clay figures on the deck, or splash around in the kiddie pool to cool down.  Heck, they don't really want me hanging around them too much at all!

So I have had plenty of time to craft my jewelry.

I did get a chance to spend some fun time with the boys when Nana came to visit from England.  One balmy summer day we explored the wonderful Captain's Cove in Connecticut.  It has a very cute boardwalk with tiny booth-style shops and the most delicious fish and chips imaginable.

I am drawn to the sea and being near water never wears thin...even though I live by the coast.  There is something so calming about it  (but I can be terrified of its might too), and the day was blissful.

Red Jade and Tiger's Eye Om Cuff

I arrived home from a wonderful vacation  today and got straight back to 'work' on my jewelry.  I have been using a lot of red Jade recently and I wanted to create something with a Tibetan feel to it.  Reds and oranges/browns were the base colors and I was very excited to incorporate the Tiger's Eye beads.  To find out more about this lovely memory wire cuff, click on the picture or click here.  Then check out other wonderful pieces at Butterfly Warriors Jewelry. 

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Mothers everywhere will be celebrated very soon.  I have been the proud recipient of many a fine gift from my sons. I cherish the thought behind the gift probably more than the gift itself.  I do, however keep each and every single one...forever!  

Kids are usually on a budget, and as I thought about this celebration of love for Mom, I felt my Mottled Glass collection was probably the most ideal gift.  The glass beads are so amazingly beautiful with colors of the seashore.  The double hearts are a reminder of the love between a mom and child. The matching earrings can also be added for that extra special touch, also.  And best of all, it is at a price-point that children can reach without too much help from Dad.  

Countdown to Mother's Day Week 7 (I'm a little late!)

Let's celebrate Mother's Day with a blog hop led by a wonderful blogger over at Blue Morning Expressions.  I am late to the party but you can check out all the rules and fun here.  I will be more on the ball next time and link up in time for others to join me.  Meanwhile, take a peek at some of the wonderful gift ideas for those spacial women in your life.

Fundraising: The Salisbury Bracelets

Last week I sat in a meeting with my grade level teaching partners, planning the curriculum and focussing on learning when, out of the blue, one ask me to make a bracelet for a silent auction at a Salisbury Seagulls fundraiser.  The charity was the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society...how could I say no?  But...the event was in two days so I had to get moving.

I'm good at working to a deadline so I headed to my supply shop and found the perfect quartzite beads in the school colors, maroon and gold.  I even found alphabet beads and a charm that would look delightful.  I stocked up an set about creating a nice design.  Wanting to give options, I made three prototypes.  My friend could pick which one and I would make three or four; one for the auction and a couple for her and her family.

My friend, Karen, literally squealed with delight at the sight of the three bracelets and announced that all three were perfect and can I have five more ready for Friday?  It was Thursday, I had no more supplies, and I had a baseball game and swimming to attend with my kids.  BUT...it was for the LLS so I said yes.

Life After Leukemia - A Little Scare

When people talk about finding a cure for cancer, it has many meanings.  My son is not technically cured...he has to be five years clear of treatment before he is declared "much less likely to relapse".  This means every time he gets sick, I have to calmly check in and make sure it is just a 'normal' sickness.

Most times I don't overthink things.  I don't always run to the doctor.  I watch and wait for a series of symptoms to emerge.  If they do, off to to docs we go.  Today was one of those days.  My mommy gut was telling me to stay calm, but the nagging voice in my head was a little louder too.  This got louder as the nurse, having taken the history, asked if we minded waiting until our regular doctor made it in because of all the strange things going on....WHAT?   Um...yes, we WILL wait (and panic a bit).

I must have flashed back the full two and a half years of hospitalizations, radiation and surgeries in the twenty extra minutes we waited.    I remained calm and my son was oblivious...but I was a mess inside.  You see my son's cancer does not yet have a real cure, and he can relapse at any time.  I know that.  He fears it but does not know the facts fully.

The final result was a diagnosis of Fifth's Disease.  I was so happy, I almost hugged the doctor.  The office was being cautious and I appreciate that.  But we need to find that CURE!

To make a donation to my son's Light The Night fundraising page for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society please visit: http://pages.lightthenight.org/wch/Wstchstr14/KZweig

To purchase handmade jewelry in support of cancer warriors ($2 of every sale goes to my son's fundraiser) please visit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ButterflyWarriors

Terrific Turquoise Treasury - Featured Curator

How could I resist this lovely treasury when it features my absolute favorite color!  Click on the picture to view the entire treasury in all its turquoise glory.  Many thanks to Wendy Wilson from Shrewsbury Creations for including my turquoise HOPE bracelet in this collection.  Check out her beautiful Polymer clay jewelry here.

Amethyst, Rhodonite and Quartzite Bracelets - Healing and Protectio

The idea for this bracelet came from a customer request.  I have sold many Pink and Purple Bracelets with Rhodonite and Quartzite, but she asked of I could create one with Amethyst as the purple bead.  Of course  was happy to do this and delighted with the result.  Butterfly Warriors Jewelry had a new design! 

The healing properties of this stackable bracelet come from the Amethyst and Rhodonite stones. Pinks and purple tones are highlighted with natural earth-tone beads and gold accents for a stunning effect. The 6mm rhodonite semi-precious stones are interspersed with 10mm Amethyst and Quartzite beads, separated by antique gold spacers. 

Amethyst is a stone known for its protection and healing powers. It also has the power to help with insomnia and headaches. 

Rhodonite is a healing stone and clear emotional wounds for the wearer. Past traumas can be dealt with, and the heart is opened up and healed. Rhodonite nurtures love and brings out confidence while eliminating confusion. 

Rhodonite also aids in bone growth and healing organs. It is used to help those with auto-immune diseases and ulcers of the stomach. It also decreases swelling of joints and promotes relaxation and a sense of well being.

A Beautiful Gift for My Etsy Store

Creative DIY

They say good can come from bad situations and I am a walking reference for proof of this.  Despite having some very major issues with the health of both of my sons: my eldest tried to emerge into this world at only 24 weeks gestation and, after a very difficult bed rest, was delivered by emergency C-section and rushed of to the NICU for breathing complications; the very same child developed bacterial meningitis at the age of 4; and my younger son…well he wanted to trump big brother so he fought leukemia…(yes, they still argue about who had it worse!!!)

Yet I am an exceedingly lucky mom.  Both my sons are healthy now and I have experienced so much generosity, kindness and caring from such a diverse group of people, even people who have never met any of this crazy family, and it truly humbles me. 

One such person is Etsy shop owner, Regina Gold.  I have never met Regina, nor had I visited her shop, Gold Puff before.  Yet, after me posting on the discussion forum asking for design advice, she sent me a beautiful logo made especially for Butterfly Warriors.  She told me that my son’s story had touched her and she wanted to donate her talents.  Regina’s shop is not a design shop.  She is not promoting anything for sale.  She is just an incredibly creative person who did something so good. 

I even had the nerve to get picky about the color of the ribbon!  Yep, I am that person (sometimes). But the reason is because I never want my mission to be forgotten.  I notice I am becoming more involved in other illnesses.  I am painfully aware of the horrors of autoimmune diseases: my mom has Lupus, ME and Fibromyalgia.  I have ME. But I still try to focus most on raising cancer awareness.  Also, my donations from each sale go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, so it makes sense to be clear about the main focus. 

So Regina was a superstar and gave me an orange ribbon.   I have to say, I love having such a beautiful logo for my Etsy Store, but it is so much more meaningful because it came from the heart.  Someone took the time to show love for all the warriors, and that is not lost on me one bit.  So here it is, the new logo for ButterflyWarriors on Etsy.  Perhaps Regina has a new calling and should open a shop selling them…I would be a customer if I had not already been gifted such a treasure. 

Summer Freshwater Pearls

I fell in love with freshwater coin pearls as soon as I laid eyes on them.  The shape…the velvety look…the fact they were not perfect!  I knew I had to do something that maintained their natural beauty as well as show them off.  I decided to keep this bracelet very clean.  No fancy frills, I just had the pearl coins do all the talking.  I added detail by breaking up the pearls with copper beads.  Their colors were a perfect match…I really couldn’t have been more pleased. 

While copper and rich velvety colors don’t usually scream ‘summer’ to me, I feel this bracelet can be worn all year and especially in the summer.  Summer means bare feet, natural sun kissed faces, beach hair and casual style with a touch of flair.  Imperfect, copper freshwater pearl coins are a perfect natural element that combines sophistication with beachy. 

Some wonderful Etsy finds that would compliment this bracelet are: