tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337795962024-03-07T14:10:13.769-05:00shiny little thingsShiny Little Things is a blog about mixed media crafts, jewelry making and the business of being creative while also being yourself.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1317125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-84384703196039437102016-10-25T11:34:00.002-04:002016-10-25T11:34:57.867-04:00Halloween Costumes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>my sister and brother in the early 70s</i></div>
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Oh, Halloween. Long gone are the days of yore, when you could snag a plastic-bag costume off the shelf at Gold Circle and wander the neighborhood after dark, filling a pillowcase with Mallowbars and home-made cookies. A $4.99 investment yielded a ransom of sugar and food coloring. </div>
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Who am I kidding. My mom never let us get those plastic bag costumes. I can actually remember her shaking her head as she watched neighbor kids walk down the street dressed as the cartoon character of the season. She would sigh and look at us, as if to say 'see, children, that's what you get when your mother plays too much tennis.' My mom did not mess around with the store-bought costume. <span _mce_style="font-size: 11pt;" style="font-size: 11pt;">We went as clowns. Every year. My mother made super-elaborate homemade clown costumes and we (in the days before the killer clown) wore them for years. Puffy legs and arms were stuffed with newspaper that left black marks on our skin. The rick-rack edged collars and tall, pointy hats were embellished with handmade </span>pompoms<span _mce_style="font-size: 11pt;" style="font-size: 11pt;">. The costume was always adorable, </span>especially<span _mce_style="font-size: 11pt;" style="font-size: 11pt;"> as there were three of us, stair-stepped in height like a clown troop from the world's cutest circus. The taller we got, the less newspaper she stuffed into the costumes to puff them out. </span></div>
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I do remember putting my foot down at one point and INSISTING that I was not going to be a clown. No how, no way. I wanted to be something <em>pretty</em>. Something that involved a fancy dress, or at least a wig and lipstick. We came up with the politically correct Gypsy Woman/Spanish Princess/Royal Person costume, which I wore in some variation for about five more years. It involved (always) a long fancy skirt, a shawl, an adult-boutique-worthy black lace eye mask and a lace fan. Also, since I grew up in Ohio, my winter coat was probably under there somewhere. Fancy. </div>
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After I refused to clown around, my siblings also got on the special costumes boat. In the subsequent years my mom created a Henson Studios-worthy Miss Piggy, a medieval princess (which involved me ruining a beautiful sheer dress with a puffy winter coat because of snow on Halloween) and even an Elvis Presley costume for our family dog. She's even made costumes and costume parts for her grandchildren. I do remember her sighing about new clown costumes a few years back, when my girls were toddlers, but I gently told her no. </div>
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Here in North Carolina we are lucky that Halloween eve can often be balmy. I've walked the dark streets after princesses, vampires and black cats in my shirtsleeves. My daughters' costumes have not needed long velvet capes or custom fur coats, but if they did, I'm pretty sure that Grandma would oblige. </div>
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If you don't have a Grandma to chain to the sewing machine, you should join me on Thursday night at Craft Habit Raleigh. I'll be there, with a box of mis-fit supplies and parts, trying to figure out what I can be this Halloween. <a _mce_href="https://www.facebook.com/events/847329232035922/" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #d96d1a; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/847329232035922/" linktype="1" style="color: rgb(217, 109, 26) !important; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none !important;" target="_blank" track="on">The Costume Jam details are right here.</a> </div>
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<i>hubby and I as 80s Icons</i></div>
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the above was excerpted from my personal newsletter, irregularly sent out to a select group of readers...<a href="https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?llr=n7imsfcab&p=oi&m=1101846160269&sit=pp6gbvwcb&f=f77ea9de-a2f2-4e3c-a952-9a8b0d393462" target="_blank">subscribe here</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-25699202258357367702016-09-13T13:11:00.001-04:002016-09-13T13:11:44.608-04:00They just get a little bit higher every time...Time passes, this is not news to you. Every day, the car gets a new dent, the plant overflows the pot, the neighbor's beagle puppy grows into her ears.<br />
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All these little things remind us that we are aging, time is moving forward and the river of our days is unstoppable. Recently, I've been listening to a few podcasts that touch on language and linguistics and mythology. These recordings have played in my ears as I've walked my dogs, weeded my garden and strung my beads.<br />
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Occasionally, I'll try some fiction (most recently, <i>Gone Girl</i>) but it never sticks. Back to the podcasts.<br />
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This recent podcast mentioned that the Old Norse/Scandinavians had a different view of time than we do. It was not, to them, that flowing river, that timeline, that link of days one after the other. Instead, it was a series of unconnected moments, each it's own experience, but not lined up in a specific way. In our conception of time, the past can inform the future, but (unless you drive a Tardis) the future cannot inform the past. In the unconnected moment time, what I am doing today can affect how I do something as a child. While I don't agree with this view, because, well, physics, I do love it. I love the idea that an action I take now could fill an empty spot that would exist in the past. That my hand touching the wood trim of my 100+ year old home could be affecting the way that doorframe was experienced in a long-ago September afternoon.<br />
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On these September afternoons, I am touching my door frame in the 2016 moment. The fingerprints I wipe off are growing higher each year. My river is flowing forward and the owners of those fingers, like beagle puppies, are getting taller every day. I cannot anymore stop the move forward than I can reach into the past and say, <b>for pete's sake, wash your hands</b>, although I like that idea.<br />
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My podcast playlist (this week) includes:<br />
<a href="https://www.mythpodcast.com/" target="_blank">Myths and Legends</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wordsforgranted.com/" target="_blank">Words for Granted</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pri.org/collections/world-words" target="_blank">The World In Words</a><br />
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Have you read/listened to <i>Gone Girl</i>? Should I stick with it? Let me know in the comments.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-23435014540870573672016-09-10T16:42:00.003-04:002016-09-13T12:42:02.025-04:00Do you like free beads? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 19.0667px;">I thought that subject line would get your attention. We're adding a free 8" strand of beads to all the orders over $30 that we ship, starting today and through. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 19.0667px;">Don't miss this, we've got some VERY pretty bead strands to tuck in your order...</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-29839715075003144702016-09-10T16:42:00.001-04:002016-09-10T17:28:29.744-04:00How To Create a Tassel Color Fade Necklace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDNdhQ98JUUwJpjXJ5lbf0YixoF3jxmaJpo0P28NSJ7gbnX20OpYxNzZmSAv4cjSwugcNaycWC4EFbp9Wmo-QyNd_8edGmC7f7vUo6LIdSqaFm9udZuSeGhGpws1d9WU2JpKZqg/s1600/14289888_10157552012330226_1432922518466121968_o-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDNdhQ98JUUwJpjXJ5lbf0YixoF3jxmaJpo0P28NSJ7gbnX20OpYxNzZmSAv4cjSwugcNaycWC4EFbp9Wmo-QyNd_8edGmC7f7vUo6LIdSqaFm9udZuSeGhGpws1d9WU2JpKZqg/s320/14289888_10157552012330226_1432922518466121968_o-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This pretty necklace, designed by Aimee Leang, features a mix of tassel colors in a fall fade. I like to think it's the perfect blend to wear over a slouchy sweater and your favorite jeans...mmm, I can almost smell the pumpkin spiced lattes now!<br />
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But really, to make this sweet necklace you'll need:<br />
<a href="http://ornamentea-com.3dcartstores.com/antique-brass-chain--oval-link--4-x-5mm_p_717.html" target="_blank">22 inches of chain</a><br />
13 small cotton tassels<br />
1 silky rayon tassel (<a href="http://ornamentea-com.3dcartstores.com/Tassels_c_82.html" target="_blank">all tassels are found here</a>)<br />
1 tulip bead cap (the raw brass one can be found <a href="http://ornamentea-com.3dcartstores.com/Tulip-Bead-Cap--Raw-Brass-4pcs_p_808.html" target="_blank">here</a>, the plated ones are sold out but will be back soon)<br />
1 carnelian bead<br />
20 gauge wire<br />
<a href="http://ornamentea-com.3dcartstores.com/7mm-A-Brass-Spring-Clasp-5pcs-_p_233.html" target="_blank">a clasp</a><br />
13 jump rings<br />
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round nose pliers<br />
chain nose pliers<br />
wire cutters<br />
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to create the main tassel dangle, check these instructions out <a href="http://www.ornamentea.com/TheShop/TutorialPages/CairoNecklace.html" target="_blank">right here</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-37682119662597695922016-07-07T11:06:00.001-04:002016-07-07T11:06:34.723-04:00Pretty Beads...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These vacuum-coated hematite beads are tempting me, big-time right now...I keep vacillating between a bead-weavy thing using them in peyote stitch (or net stitch, the only two weavy stitches that I can do without concentrating) OR just doing a super-long strand of them, all mixed up in stripes and color blocks. I'm thinking REALLY long here, maybe 60 inches or so...I'd just wrap it around and around my neck when I wear it.<br />
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They'll be up on the site, soon...<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-62067301807466568852016-06-22T11:43:00.001-04:002016-06-22T11:43:30.542-04:00Playing With Something New<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I'm sitting here at the table on my porch, listening to my dogs keep dangerous songbirds out of our yard (mostly they just chase, ocassionally they bark) and stringing up some beads. The dogs are pretty sure all songbirds are dangerous, and that means that this time of year they spend a lot of time running from one side of the yard to the other. I'm apparently too feeble to recognize the danger inherent in a robin, or a cardinal, and must be protected vigilantly.<br />
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It's been almost a month since we closed the Raleigh store and my life is settling into a peaceful routine. There are still a few boxes left to unpack from the studio painting. We're waiting for the shelf paint to 'cure' before we put the books and tools back. There are some 'where will this go?' items I saved from the store that I probably should have just sold (like about 65 too-many wire baskets!) but that will all get sorted out. I have had a lot more time, inside my head and in my garden. I have found myself thinking of things I wanted to make, not things I felt I HAD to make.<br />
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Which is nice.<br />
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Within this routine, I've been spending some time with a pair of friends who are embarking on something new. These ladies miss the creative space that we had at Ornamentea, and I'm honored to say that they have enlisted me to work as their sounding board and advisor. Their new spot, Craft Habit Raleigh, will open late this summer. I'm looking forward to sitting in one of their work table chairs and being a customer.<br />
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Projects like the one up above, playing with a new material, are the kind I am enjoying right now. This cotton Temple Cording is made of a zillion tiny threads, all hand-twisted and worsted back upon themselves. It's so compelling to me; I want to knot it and stitch it and loop it. If I were a knitter, I'd probably want to knit it. Thank goodness I am not a knitter, as I only have a few yards (teeny sweaters!)<br />
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This new cording is part of the swath of new items that are appearing on Ornamentea.com. The talented folks who are running the site for me are also geniuses at bringing new materials to the crafting world. I'm going to be responsible for figuring out if these materials are worth importing. Basically, it's my job to play.<br />
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I like that.<br />
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So, if you are in Raleigh, check out the <a href="https://crafthabitraleigh.com/" target="_blank">Craft Habit Raleigh</a> page. If you are a beader, check out the Temple Knotting Cord (it's mixed in with the silk cord for now <a href="http://ornamentea-com.3dcartstores.com/Fibers-Stringing-Material_c_19.html" target="_blank">on this page</a>.)<br />
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If you are a dangerous songbird, stay out of my yard.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-45465266049203177922016-06-08T11:15:00.000-04:002016-06-08T11:25:37.918-04:00The Bead&Button ShowAre you headed to the Bead&Button Show? This annual bead extravaganza win Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is like a journey to the magic kingdom for so many beaders and crafters. There are days and days of classes with a dizzying array of techniques, and all the dream instructors you wish you could learn from. The big treat for many, however, is the vendor hall. It's a bazaar of beads, findings and parts; like the best flea market ever (if you are a beader!)<br />
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I've never been to this show. While I have a from-way-back friend who lives just an hour away, the timing of the show is always awkward for me. Here in the South, our schools get out a bit later than they do in the MidWest, so early June is the time of year when I'm writing thank you cards for teachers, and creating those end-of-year gifts. Don't get me wrong, I DO love a big bead extravaganza, and I'd love to someday teach a class there or just wander the halls, but for now, here, my first choice of a thing to do in early June is writing those thank-you's to the teachers that have made my daughter's lives better this year. </div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=33779596" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=33779596" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=33779596" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=33779596" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Are you going? I'd love to have you visit our friends at Da Beads. They'll have a table with some pretty things you'll love, and you can even use this coupon to get in free: </div>
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Just print it out using your 'print screen' button and fill it in...voila, free admission!</div>
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Have fun!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-44166835396064613672016-05-31T08:39:00.000-04:002016-06-01T08:39:53.152-04:00Waterfalls and Ten Year OldsToday, my nine-year-old becomes a ten-year-old.<br />
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Last night, while she slept, we set up a fish tank in the living room. It is has a waterfall filter, so as I type this I am hearing the flow of water over the edge of a plastic shelf. The sound might be peaceful, or calming, or make you worry that a toilet is overflowing. Right now, I'm working hard on the peaceful. The tiny bits of sponge and charcoal take the place of a full ecosystem, making this home for fish in my living room. So far, this glass-walled pond holds only a large catfish.<br />
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That fish is lonely. The ten-year-old (did I really type that?!) wants to give it some company. She wants to fill it with a whole community of flashing fish. I can't wait to help her.<br />
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It's just this waterfall thing...<br />
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My new life, post-store, involves a lot of working at home with my dogs and chickens. This is my new aquarium; a messy studio and a breezy back porch and a very weedy garden.<br />
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And a waterfall.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-17228949730646558412016-05-24T15:30:00.002-04:002016-05-24T15:30:43.428-04:00What does 'retirement' look like?Okay, let me get ONE thing straight.<br />
<br />I'm not retired.<br />
<br />
First, I'm 48. Unless I forgot that I started Google, I am too young to retire.<br />
<br />
Second, just because I closed the Raleigh store doesn't mean I am leaving the beady world forever.<br />
Or even for more than a long vacation.<br />
<br />
I just can't. It's part of who I am, part of what I do. I ADORN things (remember the sign on the fence?) I just can't stop.<br />
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I did, however, close the store. It was a hard decision, and one I took in a mad rush. I just couldn't do it any longer. Ornamentea was not actually a business (on so many levels!) but more of an art project. A big, participatory art project. A 16+ year, multi-faceted, performance and visual art project. A hard and fabulous and challenging and exciting art project. A project with a zillion guest stars and a wonderful core cast and a LOT of different influences. Like any art project, any painting or dance or musical number, it had to end. It wore me out. I had to end that part of my creative self to make some space for new creative activities.<br />
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Which was good and will be fun and I will love it.<br />
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BUT OH IT'S SOOO MUCH WORK.<br />
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The closing down part. Really, I did not know how long it would take, or how much this part of the 'play' (I guess it's called striking the set?) would/could drag on. I feel like I've looked in a million boxes and sorted a zillion things. I've priced desks and shelves and chairs and lamps. I've been burning up the Craiglist postings for weeks. I'm making piles for the Scrap Exchange, and the <a href="http://www.thegreenchair.org/" target="_blank">Green Chair</a>, and Habitat for Humanity.<br />
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It was actually easier to have a bead store.<br />
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(just kidding...)<br />
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But seriously, anyone want to buy a table?<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-19075496310828458762016-05-17T15:11:00.000-04:002016-05-17T15:40:41.669-04:00Excerpted from our Tuesday Newsletter...which went out a bit late...<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6666669845581px; line-height: 19.0666675567627px;">
Happy rainy Tuesday. Actually, if you are reading this and are NOT in North Carolina, you may not be enjoying a rainy day. If so, I am sorry for you. I love a warm rainy day, especially when I have a lot to do. </div>
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Usually I write to you earlier in the day, but this week, with the Raleigh store closed and rain looming over the trees, I decided to switch things up a bit. I took the dogs for a long morning walk and marvelled at the spring we've had. I say 'had' because I noticed that the mulberry trees were dropping berries already. In my Ohio-girl mind, that's a summer thing. Even after 20+ years in the South, I still marvel over the 'early' strawberries every year and the mulberries that fall before school lets out. My child-inside had to pick a few mulberries off a low branch and taste them. So few trees have flavorful berries, and I can't seem to remember, year-to-year, which ones will be delicious. The ones I tried were not. They stained my fingers anyway!</div>
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The rain is enjoyable today because I am working on some new jewelry designs for our revamped website, <a alt="http://www.ornamentea.com" href="http://www.ornamentea.com/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #e07a30; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">ornamentea.com</a>. Don't tell anyone, but we are doing a soft opening NOW. Well, today. Soon. Right now I just clicked on the link above and it was the same-old site, but any second now it will switch...yes, I might be obsessively clicking it!</div>
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This weekend is both the fabulous ArtSplosure festival AND <a alt="https://popupraleigh.com/" href="https://popupraleigh.com/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #e07a30; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">Pop-Up Raleigh</a>. If it's rainy, don't forget that Pop-Up now includes LOTS of indoor vendor spaces. This weekend we'll be starting our Pop-Up Decal Game. This is a fun way to help us spread the word about Pop-Up AND for you to win some cool stuff. Decals will be available for sale at Pop-Up, but if you are super-speedy you can score a free one at <a alt="http://decoraleigh.com/" href="http://decoraleigh.com/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #e07a30; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">Deco Raleigh on Hargett Street</a>. I'll be dropping a few off on Wednesday around lunch time. Just pop in and say 'I love Pop-Up!' and ask for your decal. We have both big, car-sized decals and petit bike helmet-sized decals! You WILL want one because you need a decal to play along! </div>
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Did you sign up for my 'new list' this last week? if so, you'll be getting an email from me with 6 free copies of some of my most-popular paid tutorials. I had set the deadline to the 15th (Sunday) but I've been distracted with mulberry tastings. If you sign up by tomorrow, you can still get the free projects! </div>
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Yes, you can forward this to a friend who would like their own copies of the tutorials!</div>
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<a alt="https://www.facebook.com/popupraleigh/" class="imgCaptionAnchor" href="https://www.facebook.com/popupraleigh/" shape="rect" target="_blank" track="on"><img border="0" height="194" hspace="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.4536" src="https://mlsvc01-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/d83262b8001/09172b9f-0a2f-4bc7-8112-e86ba5dfa4b6.jpg" style="display: block; height: auto; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%;" vspace="0" width="194" /></a></div>
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<a alt="https://www.facebook.com/popupraleigh/" class="imgCaptionAnchor" href="https://www.facebook.com/popupraleigh/" shape="rect" target="_blank" track="on"><img border="0" height="193" hspace="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.4537" src="https://mlsvc01-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/d83262b8001/d1ab2537-403e-4ee7-bc4b-60c36e543bf7.jpg" style="display: block; height: auto; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%;" vspace="0" width="193" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-60644463692800879072016-05-03T05:58:00.000-04:002016-05-03T05:58:01.063-04:00Tuesday Newsletter, May 3, 2016<div _mce_style="color: #000000;" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">
<i>This is the full text of my newsletter essay...an edited version appeared in Tuesday's newsletter.</i></div>
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It is May. I am sitting here, in my home, writing to you. The big difference from today to last May is that I won't head down to the big green building after I send this email. I'll load up in my car and drive my grandmother back to Ohio. She's been visiting us for a week and we've shown her some powerful thunderstorms, all the best farmer's markets and a thrift store or eleven. It's nothing but the best for my Grammie. </div>
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But really, she likes those things. She likes the time travel of a trip to the South in the Spring. She likes picking up a nice big tomato plant to tuck in her greenhouse for a week before adding it to her garden. She likes seeing what treasures are found here at our flea markets (hint I learned this time: Depression glass is WAY cheaper in the Midwest!) I like her visits and I like that I'm driving her back to Ohio, just the two of us. We will talk the entire time. She'll tell me stories that I've never heard before about family members long gone. We'll play Highway Botany guessing the names of trees and grasses as we wind up the Appalachian mountains, cross the river and find our way to her hillside. That day-long drive will speed by in a flash of years and memories. By the time we arrive I will have traveled back and forth over her stories and the season, hearing tales of old folks grown young and watching the leaves on the trees we pass shrink back to buds. </div>
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I've lived in the South now for over 20 years, and I hate to admit it but I've returned home more rarely than I like. The call to be with my family is one of the reasons I needed to move away from having a 'real' store in Raleigh. I was an obsessively happy, 'chained-to-the-shop' store owner for years, until the ring of other places became too loud to ignore. I hope this year I can heed that chime. </div>
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<span _mce_style="font-size: 11pt;" style="font-size: 11pt;">Here in Raleigh, in the week since we've closed the shop doors, we've been busy sorting and moving all our shop furniture to get ready for the Big Garage Sale we are having next week. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/293552234309987/" target="_blank">Get the info about that here</a>, if you are interested. Our site is also being updated as the stock is getting settled into the new warehouse space and the 'new' version of the site is being put together. While we hoped that the site would reopen this Friday (May 6th) the overwhelming task of adding all the new items (all at ONCE!) means that we won't reopen until next Tuesday, a week from today. I'm prepping four new projects for you, so I can promise the wait will be worth it!</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-86462792645850626492016-04-26T10:59:00.002-04:002016-04-26T10:59:27.035-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ornamentea.com/NewsletterSignUp.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX7TykFjsXKTSvwl67ZTSoSipekg9ghCYmUVSE8Zm-4VUn_6E7n5pKzqcZp68ZfZgH-xtxOyZXLiYp-jOyIU3zysf6m48SR4hyphenhyphenFMKxyajTgdgDT3ef5slTsLw5rV4sfhLJObwag/s320/shop+down+graphic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-12152191543782227332016-04-22T18:34:00.001-04:002016-04-22T18:34:05.499-04:00I'm already excited about my new life...I have LOVED being the Queen Bee of Ornamentea. LOVED, LOVED, LOVED it.<br />
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But then, one day, I realized I wanted to do more.<br />
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I was struggling to write new projects.<br />
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I was forcing myself to get excited about classes and events.<br />
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I was faking it.<br />
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After having a job I LOVED for so long, the faking and pretending and half-assed work was killing me. It was time for me to move on to something new (I STILL don't know what that is, exactly*) and for the shop to close.<br />
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So I wrote a note to my customers and hit the 'send' key and then stopped pretending. I was, suddenly, free to say what had been hidden in my brain for so long. I was able to admit that I wasn't endlessly creative in a retail sense, that I needed a recharge, that I needed a change.<br />
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And the floodgates opened.<br />
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I'm already designing new kits for the 'next' version of Ornamentea. It's an online-only (mostly?) version that will leave me with more time to be creative in a more personal way.<br />
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This will be one of the kits:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUeJQijCpaI8Bu_9MdTODxghW8OHBO7kM5KV82XU2OF6Fal53gyuaygrcbYgIXj2hEZT5iz7-XAyoiJZf9X8rg1IxMyqY6BAjQ1MSxjVkx2M2gisxrRQsskbYhQNIKk4ZJVWltw/s1600/tassel+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUeJQijCpaI8Bu_9MdTODxghW8OHBO7kM5KV82XU2OF6Fal53gyuaygrcbYgIXj2hEZT5iz7-XAyoiJZf9X8rg1IxMyqY6BAjQ1MSxjVkx2M2gisxrRQsskbYhQNIKk4ZJVWltw/s320/tassel+necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well, not exactly this. It needs a tweak or two. </div>
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The basic ingredients are as follows:</div>
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<li>4 strands of 3 mm fire polished beads</li>
<li>1 strand of fancy hematite beads</li>
<li>5 tassels</li>
<li>5 jump rings (I used 5 mm)</li>
<li>1 strand hematite cross/plus beads</li>
<li>1 strand hematite star beads</li>
<li>1 card of #2 or 3 or 4 silk</li>
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I started by putting the jump rings through the tops of all the tassels. Close them securely, and twist them so the split in the jump ring is hidden inside the tassel.</div>
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String about 2 inches of one of the beads onto your silk. Then add a star or a cross. Then switch colors and repeat. Keep going. When it's about the length you want, add your first tassel instead of a star or cross. Repeat to add 5 tassels. Go back to the bead-star-bead-cross thing for a while. Then, when it's long enough, knot it super tight and glue that knot. </div>
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I swear, the kit will have better directions. Come in to the shop this weekend and I'll help you pick out the parts for your very own version of this necklace. </div>
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xxoo-C</div>
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<br />*I really don't know what my full-time thing will be. I'll do the kits and projects for Ornamentea.com, but that's only a bit of what is in store for me. I do know that the world is big and there is something out there I need to try. So I am going to do it. Yep.</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-91962367218810496612016-04-19T10:20:00.005-04:002016-04-19T10:20:56.304-04:00from our newsletter<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<br /><b>from our weekly Tuesday newsletter:</b></div>
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Well, it's finally here. The last week of the Big O in Raleigh. After this week, our website will stay up, but this week is your last chance to come in and shop for goodies in person. I'll be at the shop almost every day (and almost every hour we are open!) so if you come in, please ask for me. </div>
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What do we have for you this week? Well, to start off our store discount is now 65% on all the beads, stones and gems. If you've been waiting for that really pretty strand of your favorite stone, come get it before someone else does. </div>
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If you sell jewelry, and need beads for your designs, our designer-quality findings and parts are at an all-time low price right now. We can still process designer sales (if you have an NC tax id #) so be sure to bring it with you. </div>
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I've been asked over and over if I will keep writing this newsletter. Guess what? I will! I'm going to create a new mailing list for just for folks who want to hear from me, even after we close the Raleigh shop. I will still be making things, and I'll write about that. I will still be designing kits and projects (you'll find them on Ornamentea.com) and I'll write about that. I will still be getting up early to walk the dogs and make coffee, and I'll write about that. If you want to keep hearing from me, just click that link below and add your name to my new list. </div>
<br />I hope I'll see you soon, I'm going to go walk those dogs now-<br /><div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-41737720780396620732016-04-18T11:08:00.002-04:002016-04-18T11:08:51.433-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-EUzSHYMm-zBVwo9A4LU46ItQX41gP72W4_wGpOb-1njGYN3Tw4yb3fXy1Tt5Kr4_ZnGk6CeCuj6x9tfa5P5CUVxdSkmmkDnxEKgtqn9O0IDjQUtn286HLkt5vFTIxPL2-0AxA/s1600/65+web+face600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-EUzSHYMm-zBVwo9A4LU46ItQX41gP72W4_wGpOb-1njGYN3Tw4yb3fXy1Tt5Kr4_ZnGk6CeCuj6x9tfa5P5CUVxdSkmmkDnxEKgtqn9O0IDjQUtn286HLkt5vFTIxPL2-0AxA/s320/65+web+face600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-74083051032052463402016-04-11T22:16:00.001-04:002016-04-12T07:55:35.478-04:00This week is Dollar Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEk88iQE7rQoQ2nrPzG09OBdaW6Ewsk1BfWaRpSEBN6CNuWNWXnQzR3poutNTHa0joffjycgYYZYWdHle8-dKqK78DL7n-G7PxTckrD9YAri3E14ZU4GZ0k71-wew0NPeBTNWP9w/s640/blogger-image--2125392255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj593fl353EMC41wqNpRdOKvpWztkHWQzG0zyxK8bj30BOrflmIzyN8biPCeOpbGnTHgiEI0V3iwSYBI47nHRo7ZWl9MtrqtT9UgOzM3IjSxk_xcd1W4FCJhQWeIVwiIF2cFFUe6w/s640/blogger-image-558003744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">TUESDAY our Vegan Suede Cording is 2 yards for $1 (reg $2 per yard!)</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">WEDNESDAY all pewter spacer beads, regularly $3-6 are now $1 a strand</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">THURSDAY those 16" strands of skull beads are just $1 a strand. These are <a shape="rect" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001vycGHKTSvu2cAFIGn40JcAZ6l_GHk4dGBMToWZ2nP3mLtYZKxKKhQA0jftffmgpeMqi3KtiyC4PJpqUu3UmkD6U7VEdVLC4VWictWPVAkdV7o-QXxKHa8IC-Yo6jdbaBMj8kXfmOuOzbetCS_neHQCv6Hxm7QIu7k24x5_FARUKPG3eGgDf0_YFk9nstFoQT&c=r_UV1DkzDk-io7g7Q3tUiIB1SJWJdcQ_HQG0Rdssj5QV5vm-BQZpPQ==&ch=g3ZCHv77o0bZzA1zOHH_uD-6OKczmpgectVMT-ruQJrhTI8LbjBbpQ==" alt="http://shinylittlethings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none;">HERE</a>.</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">FRIDAY all red cap seed beads are 5 tubes for $1, reg $1.39 EACH.</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">SATURDAY all fire polished glass beads are $1 a strand, regularly $3 each</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">SUNDAY all glass pearl strands, regularly $3-4 a strand are just $1. Yes, this includes the 2mm glass pearls.</span></li></ul><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Pictures are NOT in the right order. The internets were not cooperating with me today! </span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj593fl353EMC41wqNpRdOKvpWztkHWQzG0zyxK8bj30BOrflmIzyN8biPCeOpbGnTHgiEI0V3iwSYBI47nHRo7ZWl9MtrqtT9UgOzM3IjSxk_xcd1W4FCJhQWeIVwiIF2cFFUe6w/s640/blogger-image-558003744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoaGZQBN6QyHWCNaeMSzRpjVM3VM2d3229PACRT4X6gkfXw54iIRQspdtaN2QWJLvPdVwUrJDrg-9BUxNbAutj3YnCw4Q0k5UmkZxLRBxkbxAAhvoxLYpndhYj4pn4S2ukWfpwA/s640/blogger-image-116437627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoaGZQBN6QyHWCNaeMSzRpjVM3VM2d3229PACRT4X6gkfXw54iIRQspdtaN2QWJLvPdVwUrJDrg-9BUxNbAutj3YnCw4Q0k5UmkZxLRBxkbxAAhvoxLYpndhYj4pn4S2ukWfpwA/s640/blogger-image-116437627.jpg"></a></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj593fl353EMC41wqNpRdOKvpWztkHWQzG0zyxK8bj30BOrflmIzyN8biPCeOpbGnTHgiEI0V3iwSYBI47nHRo7ZWl9MtrqtT9UgOzM3IjSxk_xcd1W4FCJhQWeIVwiIF2cFFUe6w/s640/blogger-image-558003744.jpg"></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEk88iQE7rQoQ2nrPzG09OBdaW6Ewsk1BfWaRpSEBN6CNuWNWXnQzR3poutNTHa0joffjycgYYZYWdHle8-dKqK78DL7n-G7PxTckrD9YAri3E14ZU4GZ0k71-wew0NPeBTNWP9w/s640/blogger-image--2125392255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5gwPk8xKv2CejgseSjr7dI4liIGgVNKIoFCSE8OHEdAFmbhNbeJ8z9u2Jxu-hcU3Ygg108wc0PUVBCc7eVpfWHtP40_vzPDG8_2G32u-X2uyhWVRPphHFqP12cWbsRpDQ49r5w/s640/blogger-image--1903530476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5gwPk8xKv2CejgseSjr7dI4liIGgVNKIoFCSE8OHEdAFmbhNbeJ8z9u2Jxu-hcU3Ygg108wc0PUVBCc7eVpfWHtP40_vzPDG8_2G32u-X2uyhWVRPphHFqP12cWbsRpDQ49r5w/s640/blogger-image--1903530476.jpg"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5gwPk8xKv2CejgseSjr7dI4liIGgVNKIoFCSE8OHEdAFmbhNbeJ8z9u2Jxu-hcU3Ygg108wc0PUVBCc7eVpfWHtP40_vzPDG8_2G32u-X2uyhWVRPphHFqP12cWbsRpDQ49r5w/s640/blogger-image--1903530476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8f0SVt2fiZ3NJR2GFns0aA2TZxe6Y_at75juvO2P2usy0CyVRrXOJp7sCohsrZg9LBQ0npSSj9aiwW6qltzG8EznJ0mt0hoFOeBvZPzyoTRuvwNlr3MkeErzfRXaPpcDwhDFcUA/s640/blogger-image-1271456583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8f0SVt2fiZ3NJR2GFns0aA2TZxe6Y_at75juvO2P2usy0CyVRrXOJp7sCohsrZg9LBQ0npSSj9aiwW6qltzG8EznJ0mt0hoFOeBvZPzyoTRuvwNlr3MkeErzfRXaPpcDwhDFcUA/s640/blogger-image-1271456583.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEk88iQE7rQoQ2nrPzG09OBdaW6Ewsk1BfWaRpSEBN6CNuWNWXnQzR3poutNTHa0joffjycgYYZYWdHle8-dKqK78DL7n-G7PxTckrD9YAri3E14ZU4GZ0k71-wew0NPeBTNWP9w/s640/blogger-image--2125392255.jpg"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkypfAP7uuuWjknFIvvtgr-X6-F1oQhBp6GdqCs_erBNyfq_6bBJiV8-SwqkzPGQaO4PjsvimFjYiKB9ZofCLMPakM6kVteKLhbKpVmgciv8z_EOyULTzUmuh4bbuepngSaetmQ/s640/blogger-image-337616855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkypfAP7uuuWjknFIvvtgr-X6-F1oQhBp6GdqCs_erBNyfq_6bBJiV8-SwqkzPGQaO4PjsvimFjYiKB9ZofCLMPakM6kVteKLhbKpVmgciv8z_EOyULTzUmuh4bbuepngSaetmQ/s640/blogger-image-337616855.jpg"></a></div></div><br>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-16821884936406652512016-04-11T21:32:00.002-04:002016-04-11T21:32:22.658-04:00Sometimes things take longer than you think they will...Have you ever felt like you were both eager for something, and also didn't want it to happen?<br />
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That's how I feel, right now. Our little store is going to be closed for good, really soon (probably around the 24th?) and even though I've been chafing at the schedule, eager to move on to some exciting new things (including the exciting thing of <i>nothing</i>) I am also a wee bit nervous. I know I will miss the shop, and I already miss our red work table and hanging out with crafty folk there. We've still got an amazing stock of pretty beads here at the store, and I have a LOT of work to do to get the 'new' version of our webstore perfect, but the LAST DAY somehow looms over me. It is enticing and scary, all at once.<br />
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I think it's a bit how I felt that summer before I went to high school. On the one side, I was so eager to not be in my dumpy old middle school. I had a new Trapper Keeper. I had a four-color pen that clicked between each color. I had a jeans skirt and one of those <a href="https://www.etsy.com/nz/listing/241121779/vintage-80s-blouse-teal-green-orange-red" target="_blank">side-button shirts</a> all picked out. BUT HIGH SCHOOL!? Scary, scary, scary.<br />
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So here I am, it's the beginning of August (metaphorically, follow me for a moment...) and I'm getting ready for this new thing, BUT all the summer stuff has to happen. In this case, here, that amounts to getting the website stuff transferred over, selling as many pretties as I can so we don't have to count them, and getting to spend as much time as possible with my middle school friends (i.e. my coworkers and our customers here at the big O.)<br />
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It's hectic. So much so that I just made a complete muddle of this blog post AND I now have a weird hankering for a knee-length denim skirt and boat shoes.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-44153055052700235982016-04-07T18:19:00.001-04:002016-04-11T20:41:38.071-04:00One of my favorite things-a fabric store at Ornamentea!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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This week we are hosting Elizabeth's Crafty Fabric Stash for a trunk show. I love it when she's here, it allows me to indulge in my dreams of having 24-hour access to a fabric store. </div>
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She's here thru Saturday! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-85809301548744153862016-04-04T22:00:00.002-04:002016-04-04T22:00:16.514-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ornamentea.com/NewsletterSignUp.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="62" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFZaOdWdu9t12vv5gaWQKnBFxPNKwX46fOCaMulHju1WHYbyYzNeAtLvCeHszamQuq1v328zOlf9beW1LzUPnR7MoFiKc0ZaRetFUebucak7Q-zOIocgJi7zFLCrSaUwVvztwiw/s400/new+site+header+for+all+departments.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wait, why are you restocking things during the closeout?</div>
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Remember, our website will remain open. The store will close, but you'll still be able to find some old favorites (and some new ones!) on Ornamentea.com. We will be restocking these items and adding new items during the store closeout, and you can save on them now. After the Raleigh store closes, most of the items on the site will revert to regular price (and we'll have a small sale section!) </div>
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If you are in the area, or can drive here, it's worth it to visit the store. The discounts are deeper and there are loads of items NOT ON THE SITE. If you can't visit us, go ahead and use that coupon code to save 40% on some of our best stuff.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-6171153598174371122016-04-03T08:55:00.000-04:002016-04-04T22:00:41.808-04:00A message from Cynthia<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMzKx9pZG-klrRu2-h905fIaKFS9HNZaWGvBfSUXynjlzPuNz6-Y9M-mAdJFXJ6dYt1gu-L9atNkRz61fyjxsWadR4RKQV13PBlQPVX-ePJ013vCaVDPFhmiuYEWuFeymHYBrsg/s1600/discount+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMzKx9pZG-klrRu2-h905fIaKFS9HNZaWGvBfSUXynjlzPuNz6-Y9M-mAdJFXJ6dYt1gu-L9atNkRz61fyjxsWadR4RKQV13PBlQPVX-ePJ013vCaVDPFhmiuYEWuFeymHYBrsg/s400/discount+graphic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hello-</div>
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I love to host parties. I love the mental prep; choosing the food, how the party will be organized, who to invite. I love the physical details: rearranging furniture and picking out the perfect drinks and treats. I love the socialization: the greeting and the chatting and the introductions.</div>
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A really good party can go on for a while - sometimes a very long while - filled with conversation and noshing and laughter. Usually, a good party is a bit unpredictable. I love this, too. Some guests come late, some leave early and some spill their drinks. The music might be too loud. A guest might be too loud. However, there is always a stretch of time when the party is humming perfectly and I wish the moment could last forever. I want to freeze everything. </div>
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At some point, though, my feet will start to hurt and my mind will wander to my bed, or the dishes, or the book I am reading. Suddenly, it is time for the party to end. The night turns to hugs and good-night wishes. I like this part, too. I say sweet good-byes and then, while I am cleaning up and dancing around the kitchen with my husband, we rehash the party and plan the next one. </div>
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Ornamentea is like a big, long party. We’ve had almost seventeen years of fun and laughter and creativity. But now, today, my feet hurt and my mind is wandering. It’s time for this party to end.</div>
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Please join me in a hug-filled good-bye to Ornamentea. I am planning on going out in style and making sure your bead bins and craft rooms are fully stocked before I do. Our store will close at 6 pm on February 20th to prepare for a crazy, most-fun-ever closeout sale. Our closeout sale will start on Wednesday, February 24th at 10 am and continue until everything is gone. We’ll be selling all our beads, tools, supplies, furniture and decor. We’ll have special trunk shows and new merchandise from our favorite vendors. We’ll continue to run all the classes we currently have scheduled (through March) and we’ll take custom orders through February 1st. I’ve got some more details down below about our beadfreak cards, and classes, and custom work if you are interested. </div>
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What will I do after the party? Well, I’ll plan the next one, of course!</div>
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xxoo-</div>
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Cynthia</div>
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<b>Wait, what?!?!</b></h4>
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<b>can I use my gift certificate?</b> Yes, but hurry. Please use your gift certificate BEFORE we close on February 20th. If you have a gift certificate, and we have your phone number or email, we’ll be contacting you with a reminder. We will not be able to honor gift certificates after February 20th, 2016. No exceptions.</div>
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<b>my beadfreak card is almost full! what do I do?</b> Come in and fill it up! We have lots of wonderful items that you can use to fill that card up, then you can spend that $50. Don’t let those punches go to waste! We will not be able to punch cards or redeem cards after February 20th, 2016. No exceptions. </div>
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<b>will my class still run?</b> yes, any scheduled classes will still run. We won’t be adding many new classes, though, so this is a great time to get in one last class at the Big O before the party ends. Now is the time to finally take that class. Through February 20th you may register for classes with gift certificates or beadfreak cards in the store. After that date, you will only be able to register on-line using our registration links (available on the site) and by paying with a credit card.</div>
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<b>I love this one piece of furniture from the shop, can I buy it? </b>yes, it’s ALL for sale. The furniture, the mirrors, the parasols, the signs, the decor, the lighting, everything. Items are (mostly) priced and can be purchased and (mostly) picked up immediately. Major furniture may require a few days wait. Ask the next time you come in. I’m sure you understand that we cannot hold any furnishings or decor items without full payment. Major furniture, tools and items from our classrooms will be available in March, after we conclude classes.</div>
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<b>what about those sales?</b> we will have some sales and markdowns on items currently in stock. The closeout sale will start at 20% off on February 24th. Discounts will increase as the sale goes on. We will also add new merchandise, as the sale goes on, from favorite vendors. Please note: much of what we sell is limited, or will not be reordered. If you see something you like NOW we strongly suggest purchasing it NOW as it may not be here later. Beadfreak cards will not be punched or redeemed after the 20th of February. </div>
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<b>what will the closeout hours be? </b><br />
We will begin the closeout sale on Wednesday, Feb 24th. Our closeout hours will be different from our store hours, so please watch our newsletter and facebook for details. </div>
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<b>I’m so sad! I will really miss this store!</b><br />
I will too! I honestly love my customers, and my staff right now is incredible, BUT it’s time to move on. </div>
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<b>but I wanted to take a private class!</b><br />
you still have time. Call us as soon as possible to schedule a private class with any of our instructors.</div>
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<b>how can I keep in touch with an instructor or staff member I love?</b><br />
I will be keeping you updated as my staff move on to their next things. If you’ve relied on someone for instruction or custom orders, you may be able to keep in touch with them. </div>
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<b>but Raleigh needs a bead store!</b><br />
yes, I agree. I’d love to chat with you about opening your own. </div>
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<b>can you tell me where you get this specific thing I love?</b><br />
probably not. Our website, Ornamentea.com, will continue to be operated by some fabulous folks and they will be selling many of your favorites. </div>
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<b>can I special order some of this item before you close?</b><br />
Yes, we’d love to get you all stocked up on that special thing you need. Just as before, all special orders will need to be pre-paid. Please place any special orders as soon as possible. </div>
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<b>but I’ll miss your Tuesday newsletter!</b><br />
Thank you, that is so sweet. I will keep writing to you on Tuesdays. For me, the newsletter has always been about my connections with the community and my customers. I love to write. I have a lot of coffee! I’ll write and talk about many things, maybe even my next venture. Look for me in your inbox every week! </div>
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<b>what about Pop-Up Sunday?</b></div>
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Don’t worry, Raleigh’s original pop-up vintage market will continue. We have a new location that you’ll love, where we can have more vendors and there is better parking. Like the Pop-Up Sunday Facebook page and sign-up for our Pop-Up email in that link on the side of this blog>>>></div>
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<b>what are you really going to do?</b> </div>
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I’m going to start by taking a good long time off. I’ll daydream, be creative, take long walks and relax. After that gets old, I’ll start the next party. If you want to make sure you don’t miss a thing, please follow me on social media and subscribe to my newsletter. On facebook, instagram and other platforms I’ll be Cynthia Deis or @cynthiadeis. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-26230345262308801062016-03-16T14:13:00.002-04:002016-03-16T14:13:19.443-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Placing an order?</b><b>Use the code STOCKUP40 at checkout.</b><b><br /></b><b>Happy shopping!</b></h2>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-41703937412460703922016-03-07T15:34:00.002-05:002016-03-07T15:34:41.139-05:00How to make resin pendants - a class on March 13th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnK1r-JVBteRLVw_p8YdFRLPV354BBPg1L1YzLjKosdwlFD4rL_pSXkZOR_LRJpAyNlE286Q0gMpTupGNxsiVe8Qup8K2j7DotLHV2_0YUI7Hv3GJUNNJwN9WTKnnjrpsrK1Yhg/s1600/how+to+make+resin+pendants+class+at+Ornamentea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnK1r-JVBteRLVw_p8YdFRLPV354BBPg1L1YzLjKosdwlFD4rL_pSXkZOR_LRJpAyNlE286Q0gMpTupGNxsiVe8Qup8K2j7DotLHV2_0YUI7Hv3GJUNNJwN9WTKnnjrpsrK1Yhg/s1600/how+to+make+resin+pendants+class+at+Ornamentea.jpg" /></a></div>
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This will be one of the last classes I teach here at Ornamentea. We'll be making resin pendants with paper, glitter, crystal chain and crystals. This class is always a lot of fun to teach, and it's a very 'wonder what happens IF...' kind of class.<br />
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We currently have great stock of bezel settings (<a href="http://store.ornamentea.com/store/category/5/34/Cabochon-%2B-Bezel-Settings/" target="_blank">see some here</a>, more styles are not on the site and are only available in the shop) and plenty of <a href="http://store.ornamentea.com/store/product/28997/ICE-Resin-Jeweler%27s-Grade-Casting-Easy-Measure-Plunger/" target="_blank">my favorite resin</a>.<br />
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If you are interested in signing up, here's the link: <a href="http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=n7imsfcab&oeidk=a07ecc1fb442220418f">http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=n7imsfcab&oeidk=a07ecc1fb442220418f</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-41505756657953624242016-03-02T12:38:00.001-05:002016-03-02T12:38:54.620-05:00Sapphires for healing and beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoRCRBF7woGpgq9dZsNAc6XDJCMes8mzn6-Ej23_C5zN9YPsu8HRq-iviI3JmNZXDtAU7z-64Nyc818-F8QsUtygnHIh6Jq20kcccq1GeezOPzMAsXHS90ylqzZXx_s4Ce3lyVw/s640/blogger-image--2003019508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoRCRBF7woGpgq9dZsNAc6XDJCMes8mzn6-Ej23_C5zN9YPsu8HRq-iviI3JmNZXDtAU7z-64Nyc818-F8QsUtygnHIh6Jq20kcccq1GeezOPzMAsXHS90ylqzZXx_s4Ce3lyVw/s640/blogger-image--2003019508.jpg"></a></div>Sapphires are traditionally the birthstone of September. With a color range from inky blue-black to pale blue-gray to green, yellow, and red, sapphires are one of the most versatile stones. Officially known by geologists as Corundum, this mineral is found around the world. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Healers regard sapphires of all colors as keys to creative expression and intuitive thoughts. While various colors are associated with the appropriate chakra, blue and blue-gray sapphires are most often called upon to deepen and extend meditation and creative journeys. Focusing on a sapphire crystal while meditating opens your mind to the depths of the universe, aiding in creative leaps and intuition. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-26295181758877169902016-03-01T08:54:00.003-05:002016-03-01T09:00:54.311-05:00Weekly Newsletter From Cynthia<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 19.0667px;">
How are you today? I am feeling a bit spring-feverish. I can't help it. Yesterday's blue skies and sun just woke me up. I can even hear the birds singing outside my window right now. </div>
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Our Closeout Sale is going well. If you haven't come in yet to see any of the great new beads and supplies we've brought in for the closeout, you need to hurry. Some of these things are so pretty! We have a week full of fun, so you should read through this note to decide which day is the perfect day for you to visit. If you decide that EVERY DAY is the perfect day, we won't judge. </div>
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<strong>Today</strong> we are putting out all the fancy individual stones that we had in the cases. They will be boxed and are at a great price. Yes, you can take 20% off the price...</div>
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<strong>Wednesday</strong>, we'll be putting out LOTS of color tutorials and how-to sheets for you. These include laminated, classroom-style versions of some of our favorite classes and projects. They'll be $1 each on Wednesday ONLY. After that, they'll go back up to $2 each. Yes, you can take 20% off the price...</div>
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<strong>Thursday through Saturday</strong> of this week we are bringing back the Mix Table for THREE DAYS ONLY. Stop in and see the new mixes we've filled it with; sections of color-coordinated glass beads and the most amazing mix of lucite flowers and leaves we've ever had. You'll be able to bag up these mixes in whole bags only, but you can take 20% off the bag prices. </div>
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Have you entered this week's drawing? Make a purchase at the shop between NOW and Thursday and you can drop a card into our jar to win 20 strands of fire-polished glass beads. Your choice on the beads, and you can enter every day to win! We'll even have runner-up prizes this time, 5 free passes to the Urban Vintage show on Friday night.</div>
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Our Closeout Hours are:</div>
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Mon-Friday 10-7 </div>
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Saturday 10-6</div>
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<strong>Sunday 1-5</strong></div>
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We are offering most* store merchandise at 20% off. This includes THOUSANDS of strands of glass, stones, pearls and other beads. This includes our exclusive chains. This includes our exclusive findings. We are posting pictures throughout the week on our <a alt="https://www.instagram.com/ornamentea/" href="https://www.instagram.com/ornamentea/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #ef4644; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">instagram</a>, <a alt="https://www.facebook.com/ornamentea/" href="https://www.facebook.com/ornamentea/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #ef4644; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">facebook</a>and <a alt="http://ornamentea.tumblr.com/" href="http://ornamentea.tumblr.com/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #ef4644; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">tumblr</a> accounts. The Closeout will continue until everything is gone, at least the end of March. </div>
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Are you confused? Read my blog post about the reasons for closing the store <a alt="http://shinylittlethings.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-message-from-cynthia.html" href="http://shinylittlethings.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-message-from-cynthia.html" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: #ef4644; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" track="on">here</a>. </div>
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*sterling, gold-filled and rose gold are not on sale yet</div>
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these large hole pearls ARE on sale...</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33779596.post-44476123825155802842016-02-25T18:09:00.000-05:002016-03-15T09:50:54.747-04:00How the Closeout Works<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Closeout</h2>
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<i>Note: edited on March 12th to say - we are now at 40% off most items!</i></div>
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<b>Closeout hours:</b></h3>
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<b>Monday - Friday 10-7</b></h3>
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<b>Saturday 10-6</b></h3>
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<b>Sunday 1-5</b></h3>
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Closeout FAQs</h4>
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<b>how long will the closeout last? will you mark things down more than 20%?</b></div>
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Our Closeout will continue until we have sold everything. And I do mean everything...even the furniture. Even the lamps and the shelves and the tables. We will be open at least until the end of March, and probably a little longer. We will have further markdowns as the Closeout continues, subscribe to my email newsletter list at that link in the sidebar, or watch facebook or instagram to make sure you hear about that. </div>
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<b>why are you getting in new merchandise during the closeout?</b></div>
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Two reasons: I know you won't have a local bead store, so I am trying to give you some of the items I might have ordered and sold to you this year...pretty stuff I've been thinking about (like some fancy stones and pearls) and some personal favorites. Also, and this is the big one, while the store is closing, THE WEBSITE WILL REMAIN OPEN. The nice guy you see in the store right now, Jon, has purchased the site and will run it. He's got great taste in beads (check out all his pretty stones!) and I've known him for years. He's going to keep the Big O (website) going nicely. </div>
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Because he's here, he's brought some of his favorite items that may end up on the site. During the closeout, they are on sale for you. After we close the Raleigh store, most of them will go back up to regular price. Stock up, buttercup!</div>
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<b>what about your classes?</b></div>
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Our classes will run as scheduled. Most are full or filling fast, so sign up as soon as you can. </div>
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<b>how long will the Closeout <u>really</u> last?</b></div>
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We will be open for the Closeout through at least the end of March (we have classes scheduled!) and after that for a few weeks, probably. We are not reordering items that we don't need for classes, so that 'probably' is dependent on how fast we sell things. </div>
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<b>will you be getting new merchandise?</b></div>
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Yes, we will be adding some new items. We are scouring the beady world for good deals for you. I don't want to leave you without some special items to inspire you this year...watch the instagram and email for updates!</div>
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<b>what's that about the website?</b></div>
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Our website has been sold and will continue to operate under the name Ornamentea.com. The new owner will choose what items he wishes to restock, that won't be my decision. I do suggest purchasing everything you can now, while it's on sale. No, I cannot tell you where I got that thing you love. You'll have to order it on the site...</div>
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<b>what is happening with this building?</b></div>
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Our building is up for sale for redevelopment. Contrary to the interview on WRAL where my quotes were rudely taken out of context to fit another story, our landlord has NOT priced us out of the building. They are the nicest, most supportive folks and have helped us in this business so much. I decided to close for personal reasons (see this blog post) and they decided to sell for personal reasons. End of story. See the WRAL interview <a href="http://www.wral.com/ornamentea-begins-closeout-sale-wednesday/15407688/" target="_blank">here</a> where my quote is mis-used. </div>
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<b>I want to buy some furniture that isn't priced yet, what do I do?</b></div>
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Wait. We will have furniture from our upstairs offices, our classrooms and our back rooms. If you wish to purchase classroom furniture and tools, those items will be available after we finish our currently scheduled classes. Other items may be available sooner, depending on when we get them priced and out. We cannot hold items, just watch our email for info about when they will be ready to purchase. Yes our outside planters will be for sale. Yes, the cash wrap counter is for sale. </div>
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<b>I live far away, can I help you with the Closeout?</b></div>
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Yes! If you are at a distance from our shop and usually purchase from us on-line, you can participate in the Closeout as well. Our entire web store is on sale, too. Just place your order and we'll deduct the 40% from your order when we ship. Please note that due to the high volume of orders and in-store customers we may be out of stock on select items. Please be patient with us. This is a crazy time here at the Big O. </div>
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