Showing posts with label christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label christmas. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Five Great Gifts For Giving Men's Edition

Good Morning,

Today we have five truly unique and individual items for the men on your list.  All items are from the talented artists on The Craft Star.  Masculine, sturdy, strong and handmade designs make for wonderful and unexpected gifts thus holiday.

From: Neolithia

Stone Alien pendant necklace hand carved from Dracocite natural healing stone


This is "Bug Eyes", both beautiful and natural stone wearble art, hand carved from two different pieces of Dracocite. The translucent green hand carved beady eyes are strung on natural hemp cord that holds them in the ET's head. The adjustable closure beads are also hand carved from Dracocite, eliminating the use of metal. Wear this rare healing stone and feel its power. This is truly a piece of fantasy pulled from the mind of the Beastmaster and is also signed.

Dimensions: 1 9/16" W x 1 1/4" H x 3/8" Thick

The artist holds a BS in geology and presents this unique personal sculpture not only as "green" but as a statement against ecodamage.  It was made from scrap from a 1901 ornamental stone cutting operation and if allowed, will slowly degrade by sequestration of CO2, the only natural stone to alter in this manner.  Minimal care will prevent this alteration, however.

By request and for a nominal fee, I will write the "life" story of this particular piece of stone, illustrating the "living" nature of this stone's amazing genesis, beginning over 300 million years ago before multicellular life was known to exist on Earth.


From: Metal Ivy Jewelry Designs 

Deer Pendant Necklace, Brass Metal, Rhinestones and Chain




Gorgeous brass deer pendant necklace attached to a matte brass chain. Deer has clear stones to add sparkle and shine. The necklace measures 22.5" and has a 3" extender. Deer pendant measures 1" wide by 1 3/4" long. A great necklace that will complete your holiday look.


From: Rustic Craft
  
Custom Art Gift- Personalized City / State Art - Rustic Wood Custom Sign


Custom Art Gift- Personalized City / State Art - Rustic Wood Custom Sign 
These unique custom designed art blocks feature your desired state outline, with the desired city along the left, and a heart locating the city within the state. These live edge wood blocks are hand engraved and then hand painted with eco-friendly, soy-based acrylic paints and finished in our original beeswax blend wood conditioning paste.

This wood art piece will be cut from our stock of hardwoods which may include:
- Black Cherry
- Maple
- Butternut
- Black Walnut
- Black Locust

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sign options
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- This item can be made from 2" thick stock or 1" thick stock (approx. thicknesses)

- If you have a preference of wood species let us know


- Choose your desired city & state (or country) & if you have a color preference.

Your wood pyrography engraving will be artfully completed by hand, not by a machine...any slight imperfections should be viewed as part of the beauty of handmade art =)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Finishing and Care
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This wood sign / ornament will be finished with our own original blend of beeswax+oil.

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Gift Wrapping
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
All our signs are lovingly wrapped in burlap & tied with raffia ribbon perfect for giving as a special gift. We can also direct ship to your giftee; add the recipient’s address to the receipt upon purchase, or conversation me to send your information. A gift card with desired message can also be included for no additional fee.



From: Iris X Readings, Lotions and Other Potions

Lavender Mint Lotion 2 oz.

 
This is a wonderful, light cream to be used on your skin during the day.  This lotion is made with all natural, organic ingredients that are good for your skin.  It is made in very small batches to ensure high quality and consistency.


From: Jerks Corner
 

I Want To Ride T-shirt


Get Your Swag On
I Want To Ride It Where I Like T-Shirt
This fun Graphic T-Shirt is available in many sizes and colors. You can choose your favorite during the checkout process. 
Includes Think High , Live Simple graphic on the bottom of the t-shirt. 
Get your swag on with Jerks Corner! Hosted by Kirk Sherrod , Jerks Corner is a weekly Hangout On Air Series by bike experts for bike experts. Each show provides information on keeping your bike in tip top shape with "Answers from Adrian" , entertaining interviews with special guests and you can ask your questions live , via the "Bat Phone". Join Kirk and his cast of characters every Monday at 1 pm MST/ 3 pm EST.Find programming updates on Google Plus +Jerks Bike Shop
  

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.  In hope encouragement strikes and you will have a look at other items in teh shop and perhaps find that special something for that special someone.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Monday, December 7, 2015

Oh My Gosh, It's Full of Stars

Good Morning,

Today's feature: Celtic Visions Anodized Aluminum Stars.

We have a great selection of Ready To Wear Pendants in the shop, they may also be used as Ornaments.  Each star measures approximately 1-1/2"a widest points.

Stars come in single or two color combinations and may be customized in the color(s) of choice.  They make great Birthday gifts, Team Spirit jewelry, or Business branding pieces.

Vavoom Violet Celtic Star Anodized Aluminum Pendant

These super cute Celtic Star pendants are just right for those that would like a piece of maille, but don't want to feel like they are wearing armor.  Subtle, shiny, strong and colorful, they will add a touch of femininity to any outfit. 

Customizable in the color or colors of choice.  Current in stock Colors include, Dark Blue, Dark Green, Purple, Turquoise, Gold, Red, *Violet, and Pink with more colors on the way.  Contact the shop with your request and let's make something wonderful together.  Also available in two color combinations of choice, upon customer request.

Check the shop for our Ready To Wear pieces; perhaps we have your favorite on hand.
1-1/2" at widest point, crafted from 16g and 18g Natural (silver) and Anodized Aluminum jump rings.  Each star comes with a bail, chain is not included.  Please note your bail may vary from the one shown.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving (while box supply lasts)

Ask us about multi-item and wholesale discounts


Celtic Star Holiday Aluminum Pendant or Ornament
This adorable piece is lightweight, yet sturdy and stunning.  Aluminum rings shine and sparkle in Natural, and Anodized Red and Green aluminum.  Terrific for a bit of unique Holiday sparkle, the Office Christmas Party or just for fun.  Hang it on yourself, or hang it on the tree, the choice is yours.

1-1/2" at widest point, each star comes with a bail, chain is not included. 

May be made in the colors of your choice.  Contact the shop with your request today.  No additional charge for custom orders.

Arrives, boxed, ready for gift giving (while box supply lasts)

Ask us about multi-item and wholesale discounts.

Gold Star of Merit Celtic Star Aluminum Pendant 
 
Who wants a Gold Star?  Everybody!  Prizes, and accolades for those you love.  These super cute pendants are just right for those that would like a piece of maille, but don't want to feel like they are wearing armor.  Subtle, shiny, strong and colorful, they will add a touch of femininity to any outfit. 

Customizable in the color or colors of choice.  Current in stock Colors include, Dark Blue, Green, Purple, Turquoise, Gold, Red, Violet, and Pink with more colors on the way.  Contact the shop with your request and let's make something wonderful together.
Check the shop for our Ready To Wear pieces; perhaps we have your favorite on hand.

1-1/2" at widest point, crafted from 16g and 18g Natural (silver) and Anodized Aluminum jump rings.  Each star comes with a bail, chain is not included.  Please note your bail may vary from the one shown.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving (while box supply lasts)

Ask us about multi-item and wholesale discounts.

Celtic Stars Aluminum Chainmaille Pendants or Ornaments

These adorable stars are yours for the taking.  Lightweight, super cute, shiny and flirtatious, they will accent everything in  your closet nicely.  Available in a variety of color combinations or customize with your favorite single or two color choice or check the shop for our Ready to Wear selection.

Great for Team Spirit, Business Colors, or would make a fun and unique ornament for Christmas or other occasion.
This one would make a great gift for Denver or Boise State Broncos fans.

1-1/2" circumference, crafted from Top-shelf, Jewelry Grade Anodized Dark Blue, Orange, and Natural (silver) aluminum.  Each Star will come with a bail.  Chain is not included.

Contact the shop with your custom color requests.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

Ask us about multi-item and wholesale discounts.


Celtic Star Purple Aluminum Chainmaille Pendant or Ornament

These super cute pendants are just right for those that would like a piece of maille, but don't want to feel like they are wearing armor.  Subtle, shiny, strong and colorful, they will add a touch of femininity to any outfit. 

Customizable in the color or colors of choice.  Current in stock Colors include, Dark Blue, Green, Purple, Turquoise, Gold, Red, Violet, and Pink with more colors on the way.  Contact the shop with your request and let's make something wonderful together.
Check the shop for our Ready To Wear pieces; perhaps we have your favorite on hand.

1-1/2" at widest point, crafted from 16g and 18g Natural (silver) and Anodized Aluminum jump rings.  Each star comes with a bail, chain is not included.  Please note your bail may vary from the one shown.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving (while box supply lasts)

Ask us about multi-item and wholesale discounts.

Celtic Stars not yet listed.

Vibrant Pink

Dark (Navy) Blue


Anodizing is an amazing processes, and although we would like to be invovled in every facet of jewelry-making there are some things that just can't be done in-house.  Our aluminum is purchased from Blue Buddha Boutique of Chicago, and is top-shelf jewelry grade, non-tarnish metal.  Beautiful, affordable, bright, shiny and lots of fun to wear.  Currently we have a limited selection of colors, but are in hope of filling out more as they become available.

Colors available (depending on your monitor colors may look different).
 



Yellow and brown are currently out of stock in the shop, but may be ordered.

This design may also be found in our shop as earrings, about the size of a quarter, they are available in Silver-plated or Gun Metal rings, with Czech Glass Bead accents, or without.


Dark Star Chainmaille Earrings

Deep, dark, mysterious, and attractive. These interesting pair of earrings make a terrific and wonderful accessory for any outfit. Goth to Rocker, High Fashion to Sophisticated Chic, Cocktails or Concerts these beauties are sure to turn heads.

Perfect for Fantasy Films or Event attire, Cos-play, S.C.A. or L.A.R.P. costume needs.

Smaller than a quarter (coin), hand crafted from Gunmetal tone jump rings, linked in the Celtic Star / Snowflake pattern. Three points accent the bottom edge of the star with Czech Glass beads in Hematite, a pretty matte grey color with a high polish that matches the Gunmetal rings nicely.

*Also available without beads.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

Ask us about multiple item or Wholesale order discounts.

Please see the variations for other Czech Glass Beads colors available for customizing this pair of earrings.

Please see our Read-to-Wear selections in the shop.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.  Please click through to the shop and see what else is on the shelves.  We love custom orders, contact us with your request or design idea,and let's make something wonderful together.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Monday, November 30, 2015

Cyber Monday Sale with The Alchemists Vessel

Good Morning,

Today and extended through Friday, December 04, 2015 everything in the shop is on sale!  

Use Coupon Code: TCS30 at check out for 30% OFF everything in the shop.

Are Sterling Silver and Sterling Silver Plated items included?

Yes!

May I place a custom order with the coupon code?

Yes!

Order your custom item during the sales event and receive the 30% discount, just as a finished item.

Gold Ribbon Aluminum Chainmaille Bracelet






Thank you for stopping in and having a look, in hope encouragement strikes to click through to the shop to see what else is on the virtual shelves.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Five Great Shops For Gifts

Good Morning,

Today I am turning the tables a little bit and introducing five shops that have a wonderful selection of neat stuff for your Holiday needs.  From Hostess Gifts to Home Decor these shops are full of unique, beautiful handmade items ready for their forever home with you.

From etsy - One of my favorite shops is Sue's Arts


HAMSAS, JEWELRY, JUDAICA ART AND GIFTS





On The CraftStar

Debbi H., owns Yankee Burrow, and has a marvelous selection of  handmade and vintage goodies.  She takes custom orders and is the crocheter that made my fabulous Tentacled Hat.

Yankee Burrow 
 
Welcome to The Yankee Burrow Co. You'll find a range of items here, from crochet toys to original artwork. If you see something you like, but would prefer a different size or color, just let me know.




This shop is near and dear to me, hailing from somewhere in wonderful wild Idaho comes Clearwater Cabin Living


Welcome to Clearwater Cabin Living where you will find exceptionally unique, high quality handcrafted rustic home accessories. We offer a variety of items for lodge and cabin décor along with many items that fit well with southwestern style decorating. If you have been searching for cabin décor ideas and love lodge and rustic decorating like we do, then you certainly have come to the right place. 



My European Touch



Looking for handmade functional Art, look no more - you have arrived. Monika of Myeuropeantouch’s passion is rooted in fine art, up cycling and prêt-à-porter for the home. Although not grounded in one particular style in Mosaic and Home Decor, she layers vibrant and pastel color palettes. Thoughtful details add and create functional and sophisticated items, give them new life. Mosaic Art- made from carefully hand cut vintage and new bone china plate rims, combined with stained glass and other lil pretty's and baubles.




The Alchemists Vessel


Specializing in Chain Maille, Sterling Silver and Gemstone Jewelry. Thank you so much for stopping by to view the hand crafted offerings. Like what you see but don't see what you like? Custom work is available. All items are handmade with love and attention to detail. We believe that our customers are unique, and so to our jewelry. 




Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  Encouraging you to click through and see what these wonderful shops have to offer.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
 

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Featured Artist: The Alchemists Vessel

Good Morning,

I have run out of participating artists.  I am sure there will be more soon.   Today's blog is shameless self-promoting. 





Mind, Body, Spirit.  Specializing in Chainmaille, Sterling Silver and Gemstone Jewelry. Thank you so much for stopping by to view the hand crafted offerings. Like what you see but don't see what you like? Custom work is available. All items are handmade with love and attention to detail. We believe that our customers are unique, and so to our jewelry.

Selections from the Shop on The CraftStar.  Now featuring a new materials including 14Kt Gold-plated and Stainless Steel Jump Rings.

  
Sky Genuine Turquoise Sterling Silver Ring


This gorgeous little ring is just right for ring or pinky fingers.  Genuine raw Turquoise has been hand set in a handmade Sterling Silver setting.  Would make a fabulous December Birthday Gift.

US Size 6-6.5, Sterling Silver Ring Stock and twisted accents have been hand forged in to a ring setting and finished with a 6mm raw genuine Turquoise gemstone cabochon.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

This item is not customizable.

Please see our selection of ready to wear items in the shop.

Sterling Silver and Genuine Turquoise Gemstone Cross

21" total length, the Sterling Silver cross is 1 x 3/4" at widest point, this pretty little cross is hand forged from start to finish. Cut from a Sterling Silver sheet and hand stamped with an arrow like design for a Southwestern appeal. Hand cleaned and polished. Some of the tool marks are visible on the back along with the "Sterling" mark. Hand set with a genuine Turquoise cabochon and matching beads along the chain.

The chain is Sterling Silver 1.5mm Fine Figaro pattern and finished with a Sterling Silver Lobster Claw Clasp.

Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.

Half and Half Chainmaille Bracelet

This elegant bracelet is simple and slinky, sleek and smooth.  Silver and 14Kt Gold-plated sides give this bracelet a rich and sophisticated appeal.  Lightweight and comfortable for all day wear.  Jazz up that Office Outfit, Date Night dress or casual weekend outfit.

8" total length.  Handcrafted in 5mm 20g silver-plated and 14Kt Gold-plated jump rings, linked in the Round Maille weave.  Finished with a matching Lobster-claw clasp.  May be changed to spring or Toggle clasp upon request at no additional charge.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

May be made to desired length.

Please see our selection of ready to wear items in the shop.

Ladies Lace Chainmaille Necklace

Lovely, lacy, delicate and feminine.   This gorgeous gold-plated chainmaille collar will add a touch of flair and an air of mystery to any outfit in your wardrobe.  Accented with beautiful Sapphire (Silver-lined) Czech glass beads for a dash of color and sophistication.  One of this Fall's must have colors, the deep rich blue will compliment you and your outfit.  Jazz up that tailored office suit, or pretty date night dress, goes great with your favorite top and comfy jeans.  Matching earrings are included.

Makes a terrific September Birthday gift.  Perfect for Film or Event attire, Cos-play, Role-play, SCA, LARP or other costume needs.  Surprise a "Game of Thrones" or History Channel's "Vikings" fan with a bit of Maille.

16.5" total length.  Handcrafted from 20g 14Kt Gold-plated (over brass) wire, hand spun on a 5mm mandrel, cut and woven in the European 4-in-1 pattern for a pretty and delicate lacy look.  Finished with a matching 14Kt Gold-plated Toggle clasp.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

*This item may be made in a variety of Czech Glass bead colors and to desired length.  Please contact the shop with your request.  Let us help you design that special piece that is all your own.

Please see our selection of other Ready-To-Wear items in the shop.

Ask us about multiple item and Wholesale discounts.


Raven Charm Stainless Steel Chainmail Necklace

A Ravens Nook exclusive.  Big, bold and bright, this strong and simplified necklace makes a great statement piece without being overwhelming.  One of a limited selection of three pendants, this stylized Raven / Bird skull is perfect for Goth or Rocker fashions, Film or Fantasy Event Attire, Cos-play or LARP costume needs.  Amulet, Charm, Talisman, or just a really interesting pendant, this unique piece is sure to spice up any wardrobe.

Appropriate for men or women.  Elegant, exciting, weird and wonderful all in one powerful pendant.

Chain is 18" long including clasp, and is woven with 18g Stainless Steel jump rings in a twisted double link pattern.  Finished with a Lobster Claw and Tab clasp.

Pendant is 1-3/4" x 3/4", silver plated over brass, with hollow back making it lightweight.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  In hope that inspiration may strike and you'll shop with us this Holiday Season.

The Alchemsits Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

 




Thursday, November 21, 2013

New Items at Little Shop of Artists

Good Morning,

We have new items both on line and in the store, just in time for the chilly winter months.

These items are available at handmadeartists.com or at Little Shop of Artists, in the store.

The Alchemists Vessel

Leprechaun




















100% Acrylic Yarn, Hand-knit Scarf, 65" long (fingertip length), 7" wide, lush, warm and gorgeous.

Holiday Muffatees - Red and Silver

What's a muffatee?  If you remember your Beatrix Potter, Benjamin Bunny's Mother knit them for a living.  In the Victorian era, central heating did not exist and layering clothing was essential for warmth.  Muffatees, sometimes created from old stockings (socks), are usually a knitted tube, with a hole in the side for your thumb to slip through. Covering the back and palm of the hand, leaving fingers free for tasks.  These are a version of those with variations, the cuffs are ruffled and there are no thumb holes.  Makes for a fabulous pop of color underneath a jacket sleeve.

Camouflage

100% Acrylic Yarn in "Dad's Scarf", by Bernat.  6-1/2" wide x 70" long, this full length is great for him or her or a returning Military member.  Warm, thick and wonderfully squishy this makes a lovely warm accessory for the chilly winter months.

Red Garter Scarf


 Knit with a blouche' yarn, the Garter stitch gives this a lovely texture.  Full length, makes a great wrap-around and adds a lively bit of bright color to those grey November morns.



















You may find these items by following the links or stop in Little Shop of Artists and try them on, or just have a look.

Thank you for stopping in this morning.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Monday, September 16, 2013

New items in the Store

Good Morning,

Today's blog is short ans sweet.  

A news item or two.

Yesterday, Sunday September 15, 2013, the front parking lot at the shop was repaved.  Little Shop of Artists will be open again Wednesday September 18th or, Thursday, September 19th, this week.

The shop will finally have a computer.   Although it is my personal laptop, services such as shopping an artists on-line shop or site can be done in-store.

We have several new items in the shop including two Fine Art photographic prints from Elton Nesselrodt, they are lovely riverside landscapes, matted and framed.

Autumn is here next week and the weather is turning as are the leaves.  The shop has ventured past jewelry and art-wear to hand-knitted items as well.  This is the very first item I have knit for sale.

"Camouflage" is now finished and for sale, if you have been knitting along with the project, the finishing steps and final touches will be discussed in Wednesday's blog.  Now available in the shop.
$30.00 Hand-Knit Acrylic Full Length His / Her Scarf




Shown here for length / pattern detail.  The scarf has been hand-washed and blocked, the ends taper as the triangles throughout the length of the scarf.


We are in hopes of having several pairs of these cute and feminine Wrist Warmers in shop soon.  Two styles are available "Ruffly Muffatees" and "Texters" - What the heck is a Muffatee?  If you remember your Beatrix Potter you will know that Benjamen's Bunny's Mother had to knit them for a living.  Well that doesn't explain what it is though.  Muffatees are short fingerless gloves of a short.  Many fashion-forward young ladies in the Goth and Steam Punk Fashion scenes will use socks, minus the foot for these fashionable and cute accessories.  In the Victorian era, layering clothes was essential to stay warm in the winter.  Trying to do things in mittens is next to impossible, but "muffatees" allowed you to keep your hands warm and your fingers free for work.

This pair is mine and an example of the Ruffly Muffatee.  They look great under a denim jacket as the ruffle peek-a-boo's from the cuff, and adds a pop to color to the otherwise sometimes dreary Winter attire and grey cloudy days.

Either style would make a great Christmas Gift.

Ruffly Muffatees: $24.00 / pair.



Texters are simple knitted tubes about 7" long with a knitted Thumb-Hole at one side, leaving fingers free for texting and keeping your hands warm at the same time.  Great for driving too.  Currently available in Turquoise (Mint Blue) Acrylic Yarn.

Texters: $20.00 / pair.


Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Friday, August 16, 2013

Handmade Holidays

Good Morning,

Stop reading this like I am crazy.  Just because it is the end of August doesn't mean that for Artisans and Independent Sellers and Crafter's of all kinds that you get to have a vacation.  Oh no!

Now, right now is the perfect time to start your Holiday goods.  I know it sounds super daunting and very overwhelming, but if the task is done in manageable chunks, it can be fun and profitable too.

1.  Supply Inventory:  I know counting is not fun, especially if you work with multitudes of little tiny things.  I am not saying count every piece of everything in your Craft Room / Closet / Box, but take a general inventory.  Do you need more of this or that?  All your tools in good working order?  Alright then.



2.  Evaluate: Do you still have things from last year's season that did not sell?  Give them a good once over, why didn't the item sell?  Did something look wrong, can you tweak it or give it a fresh look?  Do things need to be cleaned?  Now is the time to do that.



3.  Decide:  Are you planning on attending a Craft Fair or other Holiday Event?  Do you know the details?  Do you have everything you need to attend the Fair or Show?  Does the Fair you are attending have a theme?  Now it the time to get that organized, displays, packing material, business cards, signage, etc.  What pieces will you take with you?  Will you work on a project at the show?



4.  Create:  Now that you know what you have in your supplies, and what's on the racks as it were, you can sit down and play with those supplies and create new and interesting pieces for the Holidays.



The Remaining Major Holidays

Halloween: Thursday, October 31st
Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 28
Chanukah:  Wednesday, November 27, Sundown
Christmas: Wednesday, December 25
News Year's Eve: Tuesday, December 31st.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Don't Forget SHOP SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY is November 03, 2013.  Stop by Little Shop of Artists for your Holiday Gift Giving needs, or shop your local independent businesses this year instead of the Big Box or Department Stores.  You'll be the person with the best presents!


Friday, December 21, 2012

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

The Gifts of Giving

Happy Tuesday,

Christmas is just a week away and today instead of offering shopping venues and present ideas, I would like to take a moment to discuss other ways to give and be in the Spirit of the Holiday without spending money (well maybe a little), or rampant consumerism.

I'm not even talking handmade items that you can whip up at the last minute.  I am talking about the gift of giving, giving of yourself, your time, your smile, a kind word, a helping hand.

This time of year there are lots and lots of pleas for your hard earned dollars for this or that charity, cause or fundraising eventInstead of writing a check, why not offer your time, volunteer to serve a meal or two at a soup kitchen, offer your gently used blankets, or clothing your kids have out grown to shelters, grab an extra bag of cat or dog food when doing your own shopping and drop it off at the local animal shelter, put a toy in the Toys for Tots bin.  These are simple small acts that will be felt and appreciated in ways that you can only image.

Be kind to each other, let some one go ahead of you in line, smile just because you are capable of doing so.  People are rushed and hurried this time of year, take a moment to breath, slow down, instead of shouting at the idiot that just cut you off, focus on the song on the raido, sing at the top of your lungs, you'll feel better, and it's better for you.  Sit down and have your favorite beverage and write your friends a letter, I said a letter, not an e-mail, a letter, with pen and paper.  Remember those?  A short "I was thinking about you" note is always more than welcome and a lovely surprise.

I know in this day and age it is a risk talking to a stranger, or offering assistance, put if we all did just one little thing, one small act of kindness a day, without thinking about ourselves or what we'll possibly get out of it, the world would be a gentler, better place to inhabit.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.