Why Mochi Ice Cream Should be a Business Expense

You may be asking "What", "What are Mochi's"? And if you know what they are you may wonder how they can possibly be viewed as a business expense.
I'll tell you!

First, Mochi Ice cream is a delicious gooey dough covered ice cream that is available in a variety of flavors. It is covered with a white flour like powder that can get a bit messy.  I try to grab one or two boxes on every trip to Trader Joe's.  Click here and check them out(my favorites are Mango and Green Tea):

  Now to tell you how I'm able to rationalize classifying them as a business expense.
Most of my followers know that I design and assemble jewelry.  You can view and purchase by visiting kilarohner.com.
I have purchased several storage containers, boxes and kits to store my beads and findings.  However, nothing has been more useful than a Mochi Ice Cream tray.  You all have heard that a picture is worth a thousand words and so here is where I insert the evidence to support my assertion:

Proof!  Now don't you agree?

Come Visit me Friday 8/6 at the Bernardo Winery

I'll be showing my designs and they will be available for purchase at the Bernardo Winery Farmers Market on Friday August 6, 2010 from 9am-noon and in the evening from 4-8PM.
So much to do there: Stroll through the Village Shops, dine at Cafe Merlot and grab some fresh locally grown produce. Wine tasting and live music in the evening!
If you cannot make it check out my schedule on my website at Kilarohner.com
Look forward to seeing you there!
~~~
Update : Went well. Photo's of my display below (next time I will remember the sunscreen). First image set up for Farmers Market and second image I moved my set up around the corner for the First Friday Market. It was a lovely setting. Butterflies where even fluttering about around me.  I will be at the Farmers Market again on August 20th from 9am-12 noon.

Fashion Struggles

On Tuesday I set out attempting to find a figure flattering dress or skirt and blouse.  I was aiming high despite my budget of about forty dollars and far from perfect silhouette.

I ended up at a popular discount chain store. First I tried a few of the juniors bohemian, long flowing dresses that I used to love.  Now they look like a Muumuu and could possibly result in the dreaded "Are you expecting?" inquiries.  

Next I considered going for a bold look to distract.  I tried a black and white blouse flaunting a wild snakeskin pattern and "key hole" chest area with two big plastic rings.  It was not that bad but I reconsidered, not really having the confidence to pull it off.

As much as I adore color, I think I will be sticking with the monochromatic.  I'll be adding hints of color and fun accessories.  This will have to do, at least until I lose that baby weight (my youngest is 5 years).

What did I purchase?  I opted for a cute and slightly bold pair of cheetah print heels that I will pare with a black skirt, a blouse that is waiting somewhere in the recesses of my closet and some of my own handmade copper hoops.

After the ordeal I stopped by Trader Joe's and grabbed a huge pot of mums and a bottle of Cabernet.
I tell myself that it is not the end of the world. There are more pressing issues, bigger fish to fry.
However, I know I made the effort to be my best and can only hope to be better for it.

What Have I Been Up To?

Just wanted to leave a quick post. I have a been working on some new jewelry pieces for my online store Go2Girl Designs as well as creating a Personalized website complete with Catalog and shopping cart.

In addition, I've added several new finds in my vintage shop, Copperlocks.

Feel free to check out my shops.  I hope to be back to regularly blogging soon.

California Coast, Spring Break, Road Trip

Last week I decided to take a drive up the coast to visit family on the Central California Coast.
Gearing up for the trip was simple and I eagerly packed ready for some time away from home.
Not so simple was trying to get my bicycle on/off the top of my 4Runner.  Lets just say it stayed on top the entire trip and I ended up having an impromptu chiropractic adjustment.

I made a treasury on Etsy reflecting my excitement:

We had a lovely drive. The weather was beautiful, wildflowers and poppies blooming everywhere and the sun glistened on the blue Pacific. We visited the Avila Barn in Avila Beach and the kids had a blast running around, feeding the animals (just a few cents for a big bag of veggies). Before we left they enjoyed some yummy ice cream made with milk from Cal Poly University which has the only remaining dairy in the county.

I took a solo trip with just the kids and I to Morro Bay. We walked along the little shops and snatched a few souvenirs. The Shell Shop was a favorite and has been one of mine since I was a child.  We also walked along the coast but never made it to Morro Rock as the kids were opposed to the wind. Lunch at the Hofbrau was yummy and full of fried goodness. I had the fish and chips and the kids each chose a generously portioned Kids Meal ($4.69 includes beverage).

 We also enjoyed a Children's Festival on Saturday in San Luis Obispo at the Mission Plaza. There were lots of booths and free entertainment and I spent a total of $1.00 for 4 juice boxes for the kids.

 Due to crazy weather we stayed a day later than planned which was a good excuse for more time with family. We were sad to leave but took great memories home with us.

Tweet as Can Be! Spring 2010

A little bit of fun on a sunny Sunday.  I came across these adorable earrings by Piper Blue and was moved to share:

More sweet tweets on Etsy:

Ceramic Owl Pendant $12 Ginpins

Bird Nester Kit $12 Maddy And Me

Sweet Owl Turquoise Earrings $14 KMaylward

Little Owl Earrings $17.95 The Magpies Daughter

Luxury Art Yarn Cowl $51 iWunder

Antiqued Brass Frame Clutch $63 Jenna Belle Designs

Though Memory and Moon Mad Raven Print $40 Carapace

Waterbirds Light Switch $12 Yarrow1

Handpainted Jeans Hummingbird $39 Nora Karen

Want to know more about me and my shop?

Check out this feature by Kristina Ra on my shop and myself, Kila Rohner.

Wildflowers Treasury and Go2Girl Brooch Featured

Porcelain Flower Brooch US$20

Featured in this beautiful Treasury by Caelum Hand Made Cards and Paper Creations

Thank you!
 Caelum's Shop

      

Spring 2010 March Home Decor Finds on Etsy

Bright finds for Spring to liven up you living space

all Hand Made, all on Etsy:

From Left to Right, Top to Bottom

Pricing in US Dollars

Add a little spring color to a neutral room with a quilted throw 

Twinkle Twinkle Quilt $43 by Down the Street 

~

A simple framed print to lift your spirits

Cypress Tree Print $25 by Persian Garden

~

Arrange a cheerful collection of bold colored vases

Red Crackle Vases Price Varies by Blue Room Pottery

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Dream of a seaside getaway 

Original Landscape $160 by Nataera

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Aesthetically pleasing and functional

Tree of Free Spirit Journal $28 Blue Toad

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A artistic quilt tossed at the end of the bed for chillier nights

Caribbean Island Quilt $225 by BTaylor Quilts

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Brighten up any area in your room with a felted bowl for keys, trinkets
Felted Nesting Bowls $105 by Maddy and Me
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Sprinkled throughout the home or a perfect hostess gift or cake topper
(I'd love them suspended in a window)
Peace Cranes Vivaldi the Four Seasons $20 by Local Colorist
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Breathtaking artwork for a bedroom or retreat
Sunset Horse Brother Print $10 by Carapace
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Stash your yarn or books in a decorative basket next to your chair
or to add a bit of organization to a bookshelf
Medium Square Basket $18.50 by Sasha Sews
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Add a colorful focal alone or filled with Spring sprigs
Textured Vase $165 Crist Pottery
~
Just loved these mini envelopes and cards for a last minute note
Set of 18 Aliens and Orbits $6.25 by Whimsical Paper Dot

Hope you find something that inspires you or you cannot live without.
Happy Shopping!

Spring Picks March 2010

I'm considering the dress below by Lirola in this beautiful rich plum to wear to an upcoming wedding and have paired it with some lovely accessories.  In the center I've put together an outfit for a little princess.  Last something casual for Spring I'd love to find myself hanging out every day.

Prices are in U.S. Dollars 

Shops in Order from Top to Bottom, Left to Right 

Gemstone and Sterling Necklace Prices Vary  Coryell Design

7 Ways to Wear Wrap Dress $98 Lirola

Rose Ruffle Bag in Nude $285 Stacy Leigh

Chandler French Hair Clip $29.95 Chloe and Maddie

Jackie O Style Childs Dress $42 Teeny Bunny

Marcheline satin slippers $26 Ivory and Moss

Waldorf Inspired Doll $16.50 Polar Bear Creations

Twigs Tee in Leaf Green $29 Ellembee

Strawberry Fields Wrap Pant $25(sale) Green Trunk Designs

Lemon Charade Earrings $22 Early Bird Creations

Summer Garden Handbag $57 Tuuni

On this last grouping, I love that the Straberry Fields pants are made with a recycled vintage bed sheet and the lovely Summer Garden Handbag with a salvaged vintage curtain.

Feel free to check out these shops and note your favorite items.

Happy shopping!

Go2Girl Earrings featured in this Spring Etsy Treasury

Curator: EdithandEleanor

A Few Goodies on my Wish List:

Over the weekend I made up a Treasury on Etsy of a few of the items on my wish list that I'd love to own and thought I'd share. Spring was apparently on my mind. Happy Shopping!

From top, left to right:

Fairy Floss Earrings $20 by Early Bird Creations

Large Brown Leather Handbag $160 by The Leather Store

Dragonfly Halter Dress $82 by Pretty Ditty

Sexy Silk Raw Edge Halter Dress $325 by Prizy Sebastian

Pink Owl Undies $12 by Undies

Raspberry Ice  Bracelet $225 by Coryell Design

Banana Leaf Fine Silver Ring $65 by T's Studio

Melancholy Panties $65 by Majo Rey

Sprout Texturized Trinket Tray (Prices vary) by Ginpins  ( I own two and love them)

Clean and Green Getting Started Kit $40 by Picnic Basket Crafts

Organic Cotton Wash Cloth Sets $8-15 by Handmade by Annabelle

100 Percent Shea Butter Balm $8.50 2oz.  by Ophelia's Apothecary (Already a fan and customer)

*All pricing in USD

Crochet Project #2 Scarf for Micah

My son, Micah, requested his own scarf and minute of fame on my blog.   I debated on whether or not to add fringe on a scarf for a boy.  However, Micah asked for fringe and so I consulted with several friends and decided to go ahead with it.  Apparently fringe for a male is a matter of taste.
This second attempt was much easier than my first, slightly less lop-sided. I used a larger hook and wider stitches.
The best part was seeing the pride my son had in wearing a scarf his "mamma" had made him!
Here are images of my second crochet project and more than willing model:

How To: Take a Screen Shot

There are a few ways to take screen shots of Etsy Front Page, Treasuries, whatever you'd like.
I'm posting the way that seemed simplest to me as requested by StudioCatB.etsy.com , designer of great leather accessories:

I use Microsoft Windows.
I went to my "Accessories" folder and found the "Snipping Tool" and clicked on it.
Click on "Options".
Check "Display icon in the Quick Launch toolbar"
Select "Ok"
Close
You will see a lovely little icon with a pair of scissors on your windows toolbar (near your Explorer/Firefox...icons, usually along the bottom of your screen).
Now for the fun:
Go to the page that you would like to take a screenshot of.
Click the Snipping Tool Icon so that the little box is on your screen.
Click the page you want a screenshot of and select F11 on your keyboard and wait.
Alt Tab until you get to Snipping Tool and let go.
Click "New" on Snipping Tool.
Move cursor to corner and make selection (hold down left mouse button and trace)
When you let go a box will pop up with your selection.
Save by either clicking image of Floppy Disc or by selecting File/Save As
Name your file and note where it is saved.
Press F11 on your screen to return it to normal size.
And you are done.
Have Fun and let me know if you have further questions or comment if you use an alternate method!
 
Want to be notified via email when you are on the Front Page?
I recently found this nifty feature on Statsy.org: Click Here

February Challenge: I've Learned to Crochet

 

I did it! On February 2, 2010 I began my first crochet project. Equipped with two balls of cotton yarn, a crochet hook and a firm resolve to succeed I  set out to learn to crochet.  I searched the web for "How To's" until I came across one that seemed to make sense, that I could follow.  This may be different for everyone, so I suggest doing the same until you come across instructions that suit you best.  I decided to start with the tutorial I found at Lion Brand Yarn's web site.  The instructions were simple enough and there were video demonstrations throughout.  I started with my chain and moved on to the single stitch.  One thing I neglected to do was count the stitches in each row resulting in some uneven edges.  Alyssa, my daughter, helped me select a completely different yarn for the fringe and I followed a tutorial a friend had found on You Tube on Finishing the Scarf & Fringe.

The end result, though not perfect (you can see lots of flaws if you look closely), is acceptable. Approved by Alyssa.

Since it's still mid-February, I have began tackling another simple scarf for my son. I'm on the fifth or sixth row. On this new scarf, slowly learning with experience, I've decided to use a thicker yarn and a larger crochet hook. I'm also trying a slightly different technique and I'm just planning to enjoy my progress.  

I believe this is something I'll stick with, at least endeavor to pick up some new enticing yarn and a hook every once in a while. Drawn by the selections of soft yarn, beautiful colors and the calm that the actual crocheting brings, how could I resist.

 

Front Page Feature Temptress Necklace on Etsy

Wednesday evening I was thrilled to receive emails and messages from all my Sweet Etsy friends informing me that they had spotted my necklace featured on Etsy's Front Page. My shop received over 500 visits! No sales but lots of hearts so you just never know.  Here is a clip of the Front Page:

Thanks sweets for nominating my necklace! You can find lots of sweet creations by checking out my friends shops, The Daily Sweets.  And to find out what the Sweets are up to check out the Official Blog and follow for updates.

Go2Girl Orange Crush Juicy Resin Hand Textured Copper Wrap Ring Featured

 

Many thanks to Alison Kelley Designs for including me in this yummy Orange Sherbet treasury!

Something New

I'm part of an unofficial team of Etsy Sellers and we call ourselves The Daily Sweets.
We have decided that we will select one new craft each month and attempt it as a group.  We are not voting on the best, there is no competition involved. It is merely an attempt to challenge and inspire ourselves and possibly find a new avenue for creating that we love.

This month's challenge, February, is Crochet. This is something I've not tried and I'm very excited. I've decided first to try a chain and simple single stitch using tutorials and videos I've found online.  And I will proceed from there.  We also have a bonus challenge this month of embellishing a mug with quotes or designs.

Our January challenge was creating an ACEO (a small art card that must measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches and we could use any form of media). I waited until the last few weeks and finally decided to use acrylics and gave myself one hour on the timer to create my project without allowing myself to become too critical of the outcome. It is far from perfect but I will pretend to be okay with that. I found it very enjoyable and could easily of continued working on it for hours. 

Below is my ACEO for January's Challenge.  If you'd like to take part, or find out a bit more about The Daily Sweets, visit our new Blog Site: THE DAILY SWEETS

Orange Cheerful Treasury Including my Wonderland Whimsy Earrings

 

Thank you to Falling Star Lane for including my earrings in her beautiful treasury!

Come visit at Long Beach Farmers Market February 7, 2010

 

 Sunday February 7th I will be at the Long Beach Farmers Market

3800 North Olive Avenue

Long Beach Ca 90807

Come out and visit!

9AM-2PM

Mossy Ice Necklace in Daily Dose of Sweets Treasury

Thank you Chloe and Maddie for including me in the treasury.

Find beautiful hair pieces for "girlie girls of all ages" at Chloe and Maddie.etsy.com

Diva Cuff Featured in Bellydancer's Dream Treasury

Thank you Nasila's Knits for featuring me in your treasury!

Abalone Earrings Featured in another Beachy Treasury

Go2Girl Abalone earrings featured in a lovely treasury by ClassynChic :

Thank you ClassynChic for this lovely, beachy treasury. Check out her shop at classynchic.etsy.com

Copper and Resin Ring Featured in Beautiful Treasury

One of my own designs, a rustic copper and resin ring(lower left) was featured in a lovely treasury today curated by
BellaBeadsOriginals

Perfectly reflects the love we have for the beauty of the Pacific Coast.

Check out Bellabeadsoriginals for lovely and original Jewelry pieces.

Bath and Body Luxury from a Favorite, Ophelia's Apothecary

Just a short post to feature one of my favorite shops, Ophelia's Apothecary.
Not only are the products heavenly, the owner is a hardworking sweetheart.


I'm impatiently awaiting my current order of Lip Balms, Perfume and Sugar Scrubs.

I highly recommend you try out her bath and body products! My faves (so far) are the lip balms (Pumpkin Cheesecake on my nightstand), Lovespell roll-on and the body butter is dreamy!  There are selections for baby and products for your man.

So check out Ophelia's Apothecary and find all the things you can't believe you ever lived without.

Opheliasapothecary.etsy.com

Refresh - Revive - Repair

Whenever I need a bit of time to myself to unwind, relax, focus and think I head to the beach. For me, nothing is as calming, rejuvenating and inspiring as the ocean.

Breathing in the fresh, salty air for a bit leaves me feeling calm, settled within myself, my mind and heart repaired and refreshed. I can return home (pockets filled with bits of shell and pebbles) ready to face work, family...my life.

Other things that invoke comparable feelings for me are long walks and various other forms of exercise. What do you do to Refresh, Revive, Repair?

Earrings Featured today...

Go2Girl earrings were featured today in a great treasury on Etsy created by LocalColorist in honor of Dave Brubeck, a renowned Composer and Jazz Musician. A link to his receiving the Kennedy Center Arts Award on his 89th birthday was included.


A "Thank you" and a shout out to:
LocalColorist who offers beautiful hand-crafted, Permanent Origami Pieces check out the shop at www.localcolorist.etsy.com

CCCOE TEAM ETSY

I'm a member of the California Crafter's Club of Etsy. You can find creations from our California artists by doing an Etsy search under "CCCOE team". Today, I've created a treasury featuring just a small selection of over 15,000 items currently offered by members of this group:

2010 New Year & New Goals

2010 has began fairly uneventful, so far. I'm thrilled to put 2009 behind me. This new year is something I'm embracing with enthusiasm and determination to find my potential. So, in the spirit of the new year, my first blog post will be a review of my personal goals for the year (more or less and in no particular order).

• One goal is to Make my Jewelry Business a success. Operating with a profit that can actually be considered INCOME.
• Next on the list (not original at all) Lose weight to be healthy.
• Spiritual growth
• Consider options for furthering my education. At 34, married 15 years, mother of two I'm ready to ask "Who do I want to be when I grow up"?
• Be the "bestest Mommy ever"... not happening. Realistically, love, nurture and aid my children in any way I'm able in growing to become strong, confident, aware individuals. Teach them to be in awe of all of the possibilities before them and the beauty that surrounds them.

I believe this will do for one year. I will elaborate on each of these in further posts as I progress throughout the year.

As my friend, Deb, pointed out I want to "Love the life I live". And I plan too!

Best wishes in all of your endeavors in 2010.

Summer Essentials 2009

With the warm Summer weather I find myself reaching for cool, light accessories. Searching among Etsy, the choices are endless.

One of my favorite and recent purchases is this hand dyed silk scarf by Teresa of YarntoSpin


With all the upcoming Picnics and Barbeque's why not help the enviroment with eco-friendly Unpaper Towels by AthenaCreates


Make any kid (or child at heart) smile with a Plush Sea Creature for their bed (or head) from ObeyMyBrain


Now for items near and dear to me: Jewelry

Be Stylish and Bold in Colorful Pieces by this Aussie Girl and friend EarlyBirdCreations


For that Special Wedding or Event get Beauty and Quality at what seem to be below wholesale from a Etsy Favorite CoryellDesigns


Or go Boho with one of my favorite bracelets from BeadSeedandTwine


I could go on and on here. Feel free to post your favorite finds.
For more items from Etsy enter search terms - dailychallenge - or - sdec - to find items from my friends the Bittersweets and Etsy San Diego team members.