Texas is filled with joy.

Ronnie has been wanting to try stamping for a while. She finally caught me in the right mood, so I showed her the tools and a few tips. I gave her some aluminum blanks, and left the room. I couldn't watch. To my surprise, this is what she came up with. I was impressed! Not bad for an 8 year old's first try! And how true. Texas is filled with joy :). We are visiting family for the holidays, and all getting a little spoiled for a couple weeks.

Seeing Stars

Here is a great new collection of simple everyday celestial inspired pieces with pave cubic zirconia. This tiny star is fun to wear. Pave is really popular. I will even have a few pave diamond pieces in my shop when I reopen, including this black diamond pave hamsa.

Sideways Craze

I'm turning everything in my shop sideways! This sideways craze is credited to stars like Kelly Ripa and Miley Cyrus. I think it's a great cool and casual way to wear your faith. But it's not just for crosses! Here's a sweet little sideways heart necklace. And how about a sideways lady - complete with belly button (you should see her bum!). Check my etsy shop after the first of the year for your choice of sideways pieces - cross, heart, hamsa, and yes, even a lady!

Chappy Chanukah

Presents (8 nights x 4 kids + a few for Daddy = lots of wrapping) Candles (6 for last night, Lila's turn to light, and Noe's candle is NOT lit, but it sure looks that way!) Cupcakes (thanks Uncle Max, the chocolate peanut butter was my favorite, of course!) Linking up for InstaFriday with LifeRearranged. Happy Hanukah!

Tree trimming

We went to a beautiful home in the Berkeley Hills for a tree trimming party. This is generally the type of view you see from the Berkeley Hills - there is always a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Our house is one of those lights at the bottom of the hill. I think it was my kids' first time to decorate a Christmas tree, except for Ronnie who helped a friend last year. Lila loved it and kept busy the entire party! She was very proud of her work. It's probably a good thing we don't celebrate Christmas. I would really get obsessed with the ornaments and decorations! I love it!

A retreat

This weekend was the annual Vision Science Retreat in Tomales Bay. Nice to start off a weekend of vision science with some optics. Then I got to enjoy the peace, quiet, science, and beer while Edwin held down the fort.