Glory Charms

I set a goal the first of this year to make my gifts for Christmas. My family and friends already have all the knitted sweaters and scarves they want from what I've made before, so I didn't know where to begin. I thought I'd follow my own advice and start with a run through Hobby Lobby. I bought some beautiful beads and chains to make necklaces and bracelets. John gave me all the tools I'd needed from making fishing lures.

Blue Witness Charm Bracelet

What fun! I had no idea I would enjoy this new hobby so much. After writing for a few hours, I get out my beads and make jewelry. Amazing how the creative juices flow between the two crafts. 

My friend, Betty, and I shopped at Jo-Ann's--more beautiful beads and chains. John and I shopped at Michael's and Walmart--even more. I shopped for beads on Amazon. Whoa! I was surprised--and more surprised when emails from the stores announced sales events and included coupons. Even though beads became a big part of my world, I have been able to keep my article submission goals. 

My love for crafting jewelry caused a big portion of our living room to fill with inventory.

"What are you doing?" asked John.

Purple Wild Kingdom
Necklace

"I'm making Christmas gifts."

"I think you have enough gifts for a few Christmases. Have you thought about selling your jewelry?" He sparked an idea. I checked out how to market my beaded treasures on Etsy. They made it so easy to set up my business, but I didn't know what to call it. I looked at all my pieces and found a common theme. Crosses, hearts, fish and animal charms. Images of love, redemption and creation. That was the birth of Glory Charms, my store on Etsy. 

You're invited to come and look around. And when you need a gift, come again. Since I shop sales on the supplies I use, I can pass the savings on to you. Thank you in advance for visiting often.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! I've been wondering how I could make Advent Conspiracy work all year: spend less, give more (of myself), worship God and love all. I don't want to get caught in meaningless Christmas shopping at the end of the year, so John and I went shopping at Hobby Lobby today, searching for craft projects we can work on during the year. I enjoy giving gifts I make so I think Hobby Lobby will be a place I shop this year and the years to come. The selection of yarn and crafts is endless. Like a kid in a candy store, I could spend hours looking for the perfect gifts to make.

Visit the Hobby Lobby closest to you or shop online. You can even sign up for email newsletters and savings coupons. The newsletters are filled with ideas for new crafts to pursue.

What ideas do you have for joining the Advent Conspiracy? Are you crafting gifts? spending more time with family members? I'd love to hear from you.