Weekend Get-Away

It's amazing that I have lived here nine years and had not gone to Ko Samet which is only a 2 hour drive and 10 minute boat ride away! Since we had a long weekend in honor of the King's birthday, it was time to escape the city and head to an island resort! So relaxing - sitting by the water, reading, and just getting away from the stresses of life.

Burmese Beauties!

I finally managed to create some necklaces with the lovely Burmese jade that I purchased on my trip in September. I love the little jade elephant and the carved dragon. The multicolored jade is also one of my favorites! You can find these and more at my etsy shop.
Jade has been considered a royal gem in China for thousands of years used only by the imperial family. It is considered to stimulate creativity and have a balancing and harmonious effect.

Travels

It has been ages since I've updated this blog! I have been fortunate enough to have taken a three trips over the past two months - Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Of course, lots of time was spent shopping. I found some great beads and can hardly wait to create some new jewelry. In Myanmar I found some wonderful jade beads in a variety of colors; different shades of green, yellow, rust, white, & brown. In Hong Kong I picked up some great blue & white porcelain beads. Thinking that I would find more blue & white in Shanghai, I didn't buy as much as I should have. It was difficult finding those beads in Shanghai, but I managed to locate and purchase a few strands along with some black and red carved beads. Lots of fun!

COCO!

Yesterday I went to see the movie "Coco Avant Chanel" which I thoroughly loved! What an interesting, inspiration woman! The movie was beautifully done, but left me wondering more about her life. Will need to do a little research to satisfy my curiosity. She was truly remarkable for her times. So this is a little collection of Chanel-inspired items I found on Esty. (Click the pic to visit the shop).



Some of Mademoiselle Chanel's quotes:
"Fashion fades, only style stays the same."
“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”
"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous."
"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud."
“As long as you know men are like children, you know everything!"
“Success is often achieved by those who don't know that failure is inevitable."
“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
"The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you!”
“A women who doesn't wear perfume has no future.”“There are people who have money and people who are rich.”
“Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.”
“A woman has the age she deserves."

NYC - The Big Apple!

My family spent 3 days in the Big Apple this summer! We played the ultimate tourists - sightseeing, dining, and walking all around Manhattan. One of my favorite sights was the Annex - the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! I'll never get to the original one so this is the perfect substitute. The first stop is a holding room with plaques of all the inductees - every time a song plays, the plaque of the artist lights up-creating a light & sound show. Next, is a movie of the history of rock & roll. After that, there are displays of clothing, instruments, and various memorabilia from many of these famous rockers. The last section is John Lennon - the New York Years - created by Yoko Ono. This is so amazing and interesting - it really gives you a peek into his private, family life and creative side. If you are in NYC - do not miss this fascinating place!

Sunglasses - A Summer Staple

As I was wondering through the weekend market today, I stumbled upon a cool t-shirt with sunglasses printed on it. Being in somewhat of a hurry, I passed on it. Now I cannot get it out of my mind! I don't think I 'll be able to find it again. Here are some great finds from my search on Etsy:

Dining in BKK

One of our new favorite restaurants is Zenses, located on the 17th floor of Central World. Dine inside or out to enjoy the great evening views of the city. Four different restaurants prepare the food for contemporary venue. You can have your choice of Indian, Italian, Thai, and Japanese.

Another favorite restaurant is tucked away in the Pakkret area along the river within a colorful neighborhood. The River Tree House has an extensive menu of Thai delights. Watch the river traffic as you enjoy your meal!

Mountain Decor

Our little mountain home needs some decorating! Inspired by the Adirondacks, this place needs a little mountain touch. I had attempted to quilt some woodsy wall hangings, but they have yet to be completed. So I have searched Etsy to see what I could find. Any of these items would look great in our house. Some of these shops are located in the Adirondack region as well.

Featured shops: Division Log Furniture, Wilderness Ties, Adirondack Metal, Signs by Diane, Jusdaspoke, Lightning T Shop, Holly Hock Heaven, Stellar Steelworks, Scenic New York. Click on the item to visit the shop.

Weekend Shopping

Chattuchuk or the Weekend Market is one of my favorite places to shop! So many little stalls; so many things to buy. These pics were taken by my daughter a few weeks ago on one of our shopping expeditions. 8000 stalls of everything imaginable - old, new, clothes, purses, shoes, silk, food, pets, handicrafts, furniture, beads, musical instruments, home decor, plants, etc. It's fun just to wander around! You never know what you'll find!

Rings for Cocktails

Big cocktail rings are popping up all over. What a fun fashion statement to make!  If you prefer unique, handmade pieces - check out Etsy for some great, large rings to wear to your next soiree or to wear just for fun.

Click on the ring to visit the shop where it can be purchased. The rings featured here are available on Etsy at these shops: Kate's Jewelry, Heatherly Designs, Jet Flair, Deanna Burasco, Mike and Mary, Jewelry by Vera Vague, Charmedlets, and Vie Moderne. 

The Sandwich Generation

    It's been awhile since I last updated. I went to NY to help my elderly parents for a few weeks.  They have had a tough time for the past couple of months - health wise. It was good that I was able to see them as they are doing so much better now. I also had a chance to visit my in-laws who also continue to live independently.

    I guess I am beginning to join the 20 million Americans that are a part of the Sandwich Generation; now caring for elderly parents and children.  I realize that I am slightly more fortunate than most at this time - my parents and in-laws are still self-sufficient and able to live independently in their own homes, and my children are young adults with college degrees, beginning to make their own lives. 

      Having lived in Asia for many years, it is apparent that the care of the elderly is built into the family structure and culture. It all makes sense.  Unfortunately, we are half-way around the world from our families.

     This is a touching video clip about a family caring for their elderly father -

http://mediastorm.org/0009.htm. In researching on-line, I found this helpful article by Money magazine for surviving the "mid-life tug-of-war."  It has links to many valuable resources and services to help you through what can be an intensely stressful period of life. For those of you who have been through this or are living through this now- you have my sincere admiration! 

Khao San Road, Bangkok

Khao San Rd is a great place to people watch! Khao San is a legend among the backpackers. There are lots of little guest houses (over 100). Inexpensive street food and restaurants abound - (see pic of vendor with fried bugs). And of course the typical fast food places such as McDonalds are available. Travel agents will help arrange transportation to your next destination. On a budget - no problem there is great shopping for those with limited funds. For those who enjoy a little night life, you'll find several clubs and bars lining the street. You can get a tattoo, have your hair braided, and get an outfit custom made by a tailor.

During Songkran (Thai New Year) the street is packed with people participating in the water fun! Be prepared to get wet!

Black & White!

It is not surprising to see that black & white is one of the fashion trends for 2009! This has always been a classic color combination. Designers such as Dolce & Gabana, John Galiano, Chanel, and Gucci use B & W in many of their fashion creations; from dresses to accessories. You don't need to shop at top designers and pay a small fortune for one item. Etsy is the place to buy one of a kind fashion at affordable prices.  If you love handmade and fashion - visit etsy.com and check out these great finds! You can get the look for less!  Click on the photo to visit the shops featured below:

Shimmering Stars

My daughter's love for stars inspired this collection of star accessories from the awesome shops at Etsy. If you click on the photo, you'll be taken directly to the shop.

Orange You Glad?

Orange is popping up all over the magazines and stores!  Looks like it is  the "new" color for spring. Although orange is not my favorite color, I have found some wonderful pieces that I would love to wear.  If you are in need of a unique piece of clothing, an accessory, or some  jewelry - check out  these trendy pieces from the shops at Etsy!  

Orange Mango Delight, Festa Circular Shoulderette, Orange Swirl Earrings,

The Pleated Everyday Messenger, Yemoja's  Inspiration Wrap Bracelet, Short Sleeve Reversible Top Scarf,

Steamed Punk Brass Ring,  Delilah Flower Headband, Necklush.

Click on the name above to visit each item's shop.

Flower Power!

One of my favorite websites is cheap chic daily - fabulous finds for those on a budget, which I just love! The most recent post features flower hair accessories which are popping up everywhere and becoming increasingly popular. So I searched etsy to see what flowers could be found! Check it out:

Click on this shops to view these gorgeous flowers for your hair:
Tattooedladydesigns, HailyLuDedesigns2, FluffandFeathered,
EmmaEBows &Gifts. JennyPickle'sShop, BethanyLorelle

Valentine's Day

Here are some hearts to help you celebrate the day! 

Hearts!

Valentine's Day is a week away. The shops at Etsy are stocked with a variety of heart items!  Great gifts for your special someone. There is something to please everyone! Take a look at this very small selection! For a larger and better view, click on the picture.

Here are the shops - (left to right; top to bottom - click the name to visit the shop):

(top row)Sweetie Pies Delights, Shelly Treasures.  Little Bitty Bakery, Blue Snail Papers

(middle row) Blue White Jewelry Wear, Mary RuDakas, Dianas Stained Glass, Paper Pumpkin

(bottom row) Just Mares, Cakebox Cookies, Claynfaye; Art 2 the Extreme

Valentines - Giveaway

New York Memos has really gotten a head start on Valentines Day by featuring unique items every day  from January 15 to 31st. Each day has a new Valentine theme - Sweet Things, Country Romance, Vintage Passion, Don't Forget the Men, Some Pet Loving, Valentine Party, Lust, Kids, Perfect Words, Sweet and Tasty, Spreading the L Word, Art of Valentine's. Valentine Fun, Nice & Cozy, Calling All Singles.  Every article includes lovely handmade items from various Etsy shops. Many of the shops are offering special discounts or free shipping to the readers.  If you are looking for that special something for that special person - this is the perfect place to start. You'll find everything from a simple card to a gorgeous work of art.  (My heart wine charms are featured on Day 8 - Valentine Party.)  

Enter the Giveaway to win a beautiful pair of romantic earrings! Don't miss this! It ends Feb. 7.

(Just have to mention that my Chinese Coin wine charms are shown in the Lunar New Year post.)

Chinese New Year - January 26

Welcome the Year of the Ox on January 26th! During the last Year of the Ox  in 1997, Asia went through an economic crisis. Will financial chaos reign in 2009 as well?  According to one local magazine, "Chinese astrological forecasters are predicting 2009 to an a very intense year during which wars and other aggressive incidents between nations and even between persons are likely to happen."  

The Ox represents peace, harmony, and beauty, but it can also be strong willed and react angrily to those who threaten or cause harm.

You want to wear new clothing in gold, purples, or earth colors such as black for prosperity, happiness and luck. Although red is generally considered a lucky color, it tends to irritate the Ox.  

Check out these great Etsy shops for the Chinese New Year items pictured above: 

Fold out Cards, Darker Image,  Meekiyua, ArtChiz

The Magic 8

I recently read an interesting article on "Jewelry Rules" by Danielle Fox in which she explains what jewelry to wear with particular styles of clothing.  Also included is a list called "The Magic 8" - 8 items that everyone should have in her jewelry box.  So I searched through Etsy to find some great pieces to fit this list:

           Magic 8 from Etsy Shops

1. Big, fabulous earrings -  visit NYlightmetals

2. Short dangle earrings - visit hayashibeads

3. A big cocktail ring - visit  Elizaandco

4. A short, round necklace - visit justessdesigns

5. A pendant necklace - visit silverdotjewelry

6. A long, thin necklace - visit bluewhitejewelrywear

7. A short, chunky necklace - visit bluewhitejewelrywear

8. Bangles (at least three small ones and one thick, chunky one - visit ciaraobscura; cindyg

Lumpini Park

In all the years I have lived here, I have never been to Lumpini Park! Sunday morning we were up early to venture over to the park. What a lively place so early in the morning! Lots of people involved in all forms of exercise. Even the monitor lizards climbed out of the klongs to sunbathe.

Year of the Ox

The Year of the Ox begins on January 26, 2009, according to the Chinese lunar calendar. People born during the year of the ox possess strong work ethics, are dependable, loyal, hard working, have great leadership qualities, and are well organized. They can also be stubborn and narrow-minded.

According to legend, Lord Buddha invited all the animals to a celebration, but only 12 came. In their honor, he named an animal for each year creating a 12 year cycle. Those born during the year would possess the traits associated with that particular animal. The Chinese use 12 different animals to represent a cycle of 12 years. The first is the Rat, followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

During the lunar month, the Chinese begin getting ready to welcome the New Year. Debts are paid, hair is cut, and new clothes are purchased. Homes are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away any ill fortune and to make way for the incoming good luck. Doors and windows are decorated with paper cut-outs with the themes of happiness, wealth and longevity. Incense is burned in homes and temples to pay respect to ancestors and ask the good for good health in the coming year. Families gather to feast in celebration. The young pay homage to the elderly and all unmarried children receive the lucky red packet with money. Red, orange, and gold are auspicious colors. Everyone loves the lion and dragon dances!

Chinatown, here in Bangkok, is already gearing up for its New Year. Vendors have red traditional clothes, lanterns, and lots of good luck items brightening the streets ready for sale. I am working on some new Chinese jewelry and wine charms for my Etsy shop. Even though you do not celebrate the Chinese New Year, you can welcome the year of the ox and enjoy these pieces which may bring along a little good luck. They will be added to my shop soon. Here's a collection of Chinese New Year items from various of shops on Etsy:

This is a peek of my new collection - recently added to my Etsy shop.