Living Within Your Means Workshop

Living Within Your Means:
Making Your Dreams Practical and Sustainable

Thursday, October 22nd, 4:30-6:00 pm
The Pyramid Club, 1735 Market Street, 52nd Floor, Philadelphia
Refreshments will be served during the session and conversation will continue at a Cash Bar following the workshop.

In today’s turbulent economic environment how can we take steps to live within our means and continue to pursue our dreams? Today’s workshop is designed to help you clarify what is essential to your personal and professional future; and set in place the financial and motivational habits that will help you sustain forward momentum, whatever your mood or situation.

Hosted by:
Bronwyn L. Martin, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial associated franchise and winner of the “2008 PA Best 50 Women in Business.” www.ameripriseadvisors.com/bronwyn.x.martin
Phyllis Mufson, Catalyst for Growth, is a certified life coach and career consultant who has helped hundreds of women realize their personal and professional dreams.
http://phyllismufson.interfaceias.com

Fee: $15. Profits will be donated to the Sandy Ovarian Cancer Foundation

RSVP to info@greaterphilbusinessleaders.com or call 610-444-8312. Reservations are limited so please reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Helping the Children of "Charity Orphanage" in Liberia

After thirty-seven years away, Bill Lawhorn (my husband) returned to Liberia last Spring. His plan was to finally visit "Charity Orphanage" in Robertsport, delivering funds we raised for the orphanages' support, to reconnect with friends he made while in the Peace Corp in the 1970's, and to learn more about the reconstruction of this intriguing country. Bill is preparing to launch a blog where he will write about all of these topics in depth, but in the meanwhile I thought you would be interested to see some of the photos from his trip.

Heading this article: Loretta Sambollah with Musu. Loretta founded "Charity Orphanage" in Robertsport during Liberia's recent horrific civil war. Bill met Loretta when they both taught at Methodist Elementary School in Robertsport while Bill was a Peace Corp Volunteer. It is through that connection that Bill and I became involved in helping the orphans, with Bill's experience as a child welfare social worker and through the sale of the gemstone jewelry that I handcraft.
Frank Sambollah (Loretta's husband) with several of the 28 children from the orphanage. When Bill met Frank, he was a lawyer who ran the local community center. Since Franks' retirement he has helped Loretta with the children.This little boy is poignantly named "Noofme" which means "no one for me."
And this is Saifa.
There's a small school at the orphanage. In addition to donating money for direct needs (food, etc.) Bill was able to buy books, paper, chalk, and other school supplies as well as balls and other toys for the children.

Bill had a great trip. He visited the capital Monrovia, and in addition to spending time at the orphanage, he travelled throughout Cape Mount County with the County Superintendent, and even met Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the President of Liberia. You'll find links to more photos at the end of this article as well as links to more information about "Charity Orphanage" and the history and current situation in Liberia.

"A Gem of a Cause" End of Summer Sale - 5 Days Only

Bill and I send the profits from the jewelry at Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com to help support the children at 'Charity Orphanage.'

For 5 days only - Monday, August 31 through Friday, September 4th, selected jewelry will be on deep discount. This is an affordable way to add to your jewelry collection with one-of-a-kind or limited edition, original designs, handmade with care by me - and photographed by Bill. You’ll find details about the sale posted at the shop and some jewelry photos in the right side bar.

For more background on Liberia and on Bill's trip click here: http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2009/04/jewelry-liberian-children-news-update.html
To see more of Bills' photos click here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=26489&id=1035013350&l=ebf8241c50

Philadelphia "Light the Night" Kickoff Party

“SMALL BUSINESS LIGHTS THE NIGHT - NETWORKING AND KICKOFF PARTY”

Thursday, September 10th from 5:30-7:00pm

Mission Grill, 1835 Arch Street, at the corner of 19th Street, Philadelphia.

Enjoy complimentary beer, wine, sangria, margaritas and appetizers from 5:30-6:30p.m. as you learn how you can help save lives by joining the "Small Business Lights the Night" walk team to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. RSVP for the info session here: http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/all_page?item_id=580137.

Come to the Party - Sponsor a Walker - Donate - Spread the Word! Your participation on any level is appreciated.

Learn more about the Walk at the “Small Business Lights the Night” team page here:http://pages.lightthenight.org/epa/Phi09/SmallBusinessLightsTheNight.

If you can’t attend the Kickoff party but want to participate, contact Team Captain Phyllis Mufson, pmufson@comcast.net or Light The Night Campaign Manager, Chandra Rulf, chandra.rulf@lls.org - OR - Make a donation http://pages.lightthenight.org/epa/Phi09/pmufson

Lemonade Awards for Etsy Artisans Who Give Back to Charity

Would you like to go behind the scenes and learn more about the creative artisans featured on this blog who use their talents to raise funds for charity?

Many of the people written about on Personal Treasures blog are also bloggers. They write about creative process, their lives and work and the charities they support. Their blogs make inspiring reading.

Recently I was given a “Lemonade Award,” which is given to a blogger with a great attitude (thanks so much Allie), and the award asks you to pass along the tribute.

So, here are my nominees for “Lemonade Awards.” They are all Etsy artisans who create gifts that give twice, who are also bloggers. I salute you all of you for your creativity and generosity in supporting charity.

Here are the Lemonade Award rules....

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate at least 5 - 10 blogs that show great Gratitude and/or Attitude.
3. Be sure to list and link your nominees within your post.
4. Tell them they have received this award by leaving a comment on their blog.

AllieArt: Photography Benefiting Children http://allieart4children.blogspot.com
Designs by Melody http://designsbymelody.blogspot.com
So Sherry http://sosherry.blogspot.com
Fancy Free Me http://fancyfreeme.blogspot.com/
That’s Headley http://thatsheadley.blogspot.com/
Kitty Any Dots http://kittyanydots.blogspot.com/
Three Red Trees http://threeredtrees.typepad.com
9 Lives http://www.9livesblog.com
Bunny Lover 930 http://bunnyluver930.blogspot.com
Bird Haven Greetings and Gifts http://birdhavengreetingsandgifts.blogspot.com/
Nun of a Kind http://www.nunofakind.blogspot.com

I chose a few more than 10 - - -

The tender photo heading this blog is "Peep Peep" an original fine art photograph from Allie Art 4 Children http://allieart4children.etsy.com

Adversity Builds Boldness

Adversity Builds Boldness!
Turn the economic downturn to your advantage.

Thursday, June 25th, 4:30-6:00 pm
The Pyramid Club, 1735 Market Street, 52nd Floor, Philadelphia
Refreshments will be served during the session and conversation will continue at a Cash Bar following the workshop.

Are your dreams on hold because of the economy? Join us on June 25th and you’ll move your dreams from vision to action. You’ll meet fascinating women, have compelling conversation, and learn tools to help you face your personal and professional challenges with confidence, courage, and creativity.

Hosted by:

Bronwyn L. Martin, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial associated franchise and winner of the “2008 PA Best 50 Women in Business.” http://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/bronwyn.x.martin

Phyllis Mufson, Catalyst for Growth, is a certified life coach and career consultant who has helped hundreds of women realize their personal and professional dreams.
http://phyllismufson.interfaceias.com

Fee: $15. A portion will be donated to the Maternal Care Coalition

Reservations are limited so please reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Jewelry + Liberian Children - News Update

My husband Bill Lawhorn is leaving for Liberia, West Africa on April 30th to visit "Charity Orphanage". Here’s an update on the Liberian Orphan project and the jewelry sales that have supported it to date.

‘A Gem of a Cause’ - Spring Jewelry Sale

All profits from the jewelry I handcraft and sell at http://personaltreasures.etsy.com and http://mufi.etsy.com are donated to 'Charity Orphanage.'

The jewelry will be on sale April 27th - May 5rd with 10% off all the casual jewelry at Mufi Jewels and 20% off all of the elegant jewelry at Personal Treasures. You’ll find details posted at the shops and some jewelry photos in the right side bar.

If you have a jewelry-loving mother, or you are a jewelry-loving mother, this is an excellent, affordable way to buy something special for Mother’s Day. All pieces are one-of-a-kind or limited edition, original designs, and handmade with care by me.

Update on the Liberian Orphan project

• Bill is returning to Liberia to spend time with the children at ‘Charity Orphanage’ in Robertsport and other institutions in Cape Mount County and learn from them, and the people working with them, what they most need. He will be travelling for three weeks - and return with information and photos to share.

• To date, with your generous help, we’ve been sending money to support the children’s immediate needs. The most recent gift purchased over 400 lbs. of rice and other staples for the children.

Background on the Liberian Orphan Project

Bill served as a Peace Corp volunteer in Liberia from 1969 to 1972, where he taught elementary school. During the recent 14-year Civil War a Liberian woman Bill taught with took in 35 children and founded “Charity Orphanage” in Robertsport.

Before the war there were less than 10 orphanages in Liberia. Children without parents were informally fostered by relatives and neighbors. But in the war so many children lost their families that there are now more than 150 – many unable to meet the U.N.’s minimum requirements for the care of children.

Since returning to the United States Bill has been active with several organizations of Liberian expatriates who support Liberia's reconstruction (see Background below). He recently retired as a child welfare social worker.

To learn more about Liberia -

The photo heading this article of the Kemokai family was taken by Bill in 1972. The children in the family were in Bill's classes and he's looking forward to meeting them again - and their children. For recent photos of people and places around Robertsport, Liberia check Luca Varaschini’s blog -
http://varabis.blogspot.com/2009/03/robertsport-grand-cape-mount-county.html

A video interview with Ellen Johnston Sirleaf, the President of Liberia (and the first woman elected President of an African nation) on the Daily Show. http://bit.ly/eCeKW

A Liberian profile from the BBC -
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1043500.stm

The U.N. report on Liberia’s orphanages - http://unmil.org/documents/humanrights_approvedthematicreport2007.pdf

The National Association of Cape Mountainians in the Americas (NACA) -
http://www.capemountusa.org

The Friends of Liberia
http://www.fol.org

Creative Mother's Day Gifts that Benefit Charity

For a Mother's Day gift she won't forget, consider a gift that gives back. Choosing a gift that benefits charity multiplies the impact of your choice. She will be touched, you'll feel good, and the charity will receive support to carry out its mission.

And - these gifts that give back are additionally special. Each one is designed and hand crafted by one of the artists or artisans selling their work on Etsy.com.

The stunning photograph heading the article is from Auntie Dawn (http://AuntieDawn.etsy.com). Dawn sells her photographs as well as pendants made from Scrabble Tiles, 100% benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society (http://www.cancer.ca). To read about how Dawn is living and working with cancer see her blog http://www.doestudio.blogspot.com.

Ngan from "Enve Jewelry" (http://envejewelry.etsy.com) has crafted these lightly elegant gold leaves with green glass drops. 100% of the purchase price from these and the other earrings in the "Earrings for Charity" section of this shop will be donated to the American Liver Foundation (http://www.liverfoundation.org/) to support Ngan's husband's "Run for Research team" (running in the 2009 Boston Marathon).
Wendy of Besem Natural Scents (http://BesemNaturalScents.etsy.com) creates lovely pampering gifts, fragranced candles and these natural cold-process, scented soaps, moisturizing and wonderful for your skin. 10% of the profits from Besem Natural Scents benefit orphan in Kazakhstan through the Antares Foundation (http://www.antaresorphans.blogspot.com).
Lissa Bird (http://lissabird.etsy.com) offers charming, custom crafted, 'Love to Breathe' pendants, inspired by the life and work of her friend, painter Somer Love. Somer lives with Cystic Fibrosis and finds the simple act of breathing challenging. She reminds us that, "life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments that take our breath away." 100% of the profit from Lissa's 'Love to Breath' line is donated to benefit Cystic Fibrosis research at http://www.lovetobreathe.com/.
Accomplished artist Justin Richel (http:// JustinRichel.etsy.com) offers affordable prints of his striking work, with 20% benefitting the Arbor Day Foundation (http://arborday.org). The Foundation promotes rain forest preservation, urban and community forestry, and tree planting throughout the world.

The two-stranded bracelet pictured above is a mix of blue-flash Labradorite teardrops, tiny Swarovsky crystal charms and white freshwater nugget pearls - for a scintillating mix of quiet sparkle and flash. This bracelet is from my own "Personal Treasures" shop (http://PersonalTreasures.etsy.com) where 100% of the proceeds from from everything in the shop supports the children at "Charity Orphanage" in Robertsport, Liberia, West Africa. All of the profits from the casual jewelry at my shop "Mufi Jewels" (http://mufi.etsy.com) are also donated.

My husband Bill Lawhorn taught in Liberia and will return April 30th to visit "Charity Orphanage" and continue working with Liberian children. You can learn more about this project at http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/09/jewelry-liberian-children-gem-of-cause.html. Also, I will blog about this projects as it develops, so subscribe on the right for updates as they're posted. And finally, for those quiet moments of reflection, these 'conscious living' journals from "This Is It" (http://ThisIsIt.etsy.com)Earth Saver, Peace, and Give. The husband and wife team of "This Is It" crafts ecofriendly gifts - photo albums, journals, greeting cards, and jewelry and donates 5% of profits to animal welface charities; Best Friends Animal Society (http://www.bestfriends.org), Humane Farming Association (http://www.hfa.org/about/index.html), The Jane Goodall Institute (http://www.janegoodall.org), and The Anti-Vivisection Society (http://www.navs.org).

I 'heart' artisans who benefit charity with their work and frequently write about them and their creative fundraising initiatives. You will find many, many more suggestions for beautiful and original gifts that benefit charity on this blog. You can find links to the articles in the Table of Contents to the right under "Gifts That Benefit Charity."

Recession Job Search: Moving Beyond Fear

"Moving Beyond Fear" is the first in a series of articles about what’s effective now for people looking for work. I spoke on this topic recently on Blog Talk Radio and you’ll find a link to hear the show at the end of this post. In the series you’ll find lots of practical tools and tips to help you stand out from the crowd in this highly competitive job market.

Even in boom times looking for a job can evoke fear. There’s fear of rejection, fear of the unknown, and fear of _____________, _______________, ____________. (Add your own fears here).

But right now, with the news focused on the recession and so many people out of work, anxiety about livelihood is heightened. If you’re not personally affected, chances are you have friends or family who are.

The problem with fear and the negative thinking that goes with it is that fear makes it difficult to tap into your strengths, your creativity, your strategic thinking, your self-esteem, your spunk - whatever personal strengths you have that help you persist and be creative when you are doing something difficult - and that’s what’s needed now.

Because the changes in the economy are not only impacting you; they are creating new challenges for employers. If you can show employers that you can help them solve the new problems they are facing, you're the candidate they'll choose.

"The most concrete thing that neuroscience tells us is that when the fear system of the brain is active, exploratory activity and risk-taking are turned off." But when fear is not present, the exploratory system of the brain is active, free to discover, invent, create, and risk.

It’s always part of my work with clients, to help them move past fear and tap into their creativity and resourcefulness. I find it really makes a difference. I encourage you to make it a priority to develop a practice that helps you stay grounded and resilient; the foundation for your successful search.

There are a myriad of methods that work in dealing with fear and anxiety. Please comment and share what works for you.

Here’s an online resource for "Soft Belly" breathing, one method you can use to learn to soothe yourself. Click here for step-by-step instructions for this relaxing meditation http://www.wikihow.com/Perform-Soft-Belly.

Click here to hear my interview with Janet Taylor (Ms. Totally Organized). We talk about recession job search - information on staying proactive, job search tips and strategy, organizing your search and useful resources http://www.blogtalkradio.com/janettaylor. The show is titled "Organizing Your Job Search" and it was recorded on 2/9/09.

A Creativity Fable

Are you creative?

Once upon a time, long ago and far away - when the Russians were launching Sputnik satellites into space, there was a giant Fortune 500 company headquartered in the United States. This firm was investing millions upon millions of dollars of research and development money into beating the Russians in the ‘Space Wars.’

They hired the best scientists and engineers and gave them the best equipment and absolutely anything they could think of to help the scientists to create. And the results were – disappointing.

A few scientists were innovating, but the majority were not.

What to do?? Thus began some of the earliest research into creativity. The researchers surveyed what the scientists read, what they ate for breakfast, their relationships with their mothers – the list goes on and on and on – and they found - - - nothing. No correlation at all connecting the questions they were investigating and who was producing results.

Until the researchers asked the following question, “are you creative?”

The scientists who answered “yes” were producing creative, innovative, groundbreaking work, and the scientists who answered “no” were not.

Looking further the researchers found out more. The scientists who considered themselves creative turned out to be better at tolerating ambiguity. They kept going when the outcome was unclear, when the data didn’t make sense, and when they ran into information that seemed to be a paradox, to contradict itself. This trait allowed the creative scientists to persist until they finally reached success.

How about you? How might your life be different if you had faith in your creativity, in your ability to venture into the unknown and persist until you reached success?

What would you begin if you had that confidence?

Are you creative? Are you willing to consider the possibility that you are?

Women & Money: From Fear to Confidence

You’re invited . . .

Money: Fear to Confidence - Challenges in the New Economy
Thursday, March 12, 4:30-6:00 pm

The Pyramid Club, 1735 Market Street, 52nd Floor, Philadelphia
Refreshments will be served during the session and conversation will continue at a Cash Bar following the workshop.

Stark changes in our economy are creating new challenges for all of us. Come join the compelling conversation on March 12th. You’ll meet fascinating women and learn tools to help you can face your personal and business challenges with confidence, courage, and creativity.

Hosted by:
Bronwyn L. Martin, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial associated franchise and winner of the “2008 PA Best 50 Women in Business”.
http://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/bronwyn.x.martin.

Phyllis Mufson, Catalyst for Growth, a certified life coach and career consultant who has helped hundreds of women realize their personal and professional dreams. http://phyllismufson.interfaceias.com

Fee: $10, a portion will be donated to the Maternal Care Coalition.

Call 610-444-8312 to reserve. Space is limited. Please reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Valentine’s Jewelry Special

Elegant one-of-a-kind and limited gemstone jewelry from Personal Treasures http://personaltreasures.etsy.com.

- Jewelry Consultations
- Free Shipping
- February 3-5th

Some women (I’m one of them) always want jewelry for Valentine’s Day - and other special days too. Face it; for sparkle-lovers nothing beats the thrill of opening up a little ribbon-tied box.

But picking out jewelry is tough. It’s so easy to make the wrong choice.

To make it easier for you to make your jewelry lovers’ eyes shine, I’m offering -
- Jewelry Consultations Tuesday through Thursday, February 3-5th by phone. I’ll ask questions about your sweet hearts’ lifestyle and tastes, look at her photo (if you have one to email), and make recommendations.
- Free Shipping in the U.S.
- Gift wrapping, cards with your message, shipping directly to the recipient of your gift - it's all available at small additional fees. Just ask.

Email personaltreasures@gmail.com to arrange your consultation for a jewelry gift as unique as she is!

All profits benefit "Charity Orphanage" in Robertsport, Liberia, West Africa.
Casual and romantic gemstone jewelry at Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

A "Wave of Appreciation" Party

"There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world, than for bread". Mother Theresa

You’re invited to a #Kindness Twitter Party!
Date: Sunday, January 25
Time: 5 - 7 (Eastern Standard Time) 2-4 (PST), 10-12 (GMT)
Place: http://twitter.com. (I'm at http://twitter.com/phyllismufson)
Everyone is invited.

All you need to do to attend is to share your appreciation.

Read someone’s bio, visit their links, read their Tweets, find something you genuinely appreciate about them, and write about it, and add #kindness to the end of your Tweet.

Do this as many (or many, many, many) times as you like.

Let’s create an unstoppable Twitterwave of appreciation.

Of course you don’t need to be on Twitter to attend. Just take the time to appreciate someone, look at them with appreciative eyes, listen to them carefully, and share what you see with them. Then notice the impact of what you said, on the person you said it to - and on yourself. It’s so simple, and so powerful.

“Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” – Scott Adams

Back Yard Bird Party

Excited by a recent visit of a hawk, I bought a bag of seed to attract more birds to our back yard. Since then it's been bird-party time all day long.

Check out their cute bird behinds and the little one with a beak full of snow (left side, big pot), and the fellow taking a snow-bath. (If you click on the photos they get larger.)
Here they are again, after the sun came out. Bill and I are really enjoying having these birds around. And it reminds me of the positive impact even a little decision can make on your life.


January 31 Update: Now what I've been feeding the birds for a few weeks, they wait for me to arrive and more come by - very cute. Above are some photos Bill took this morning. Enjoy!

These photos are all of sparrows, but we also see finches, mourning doves, and mocking birds. And of course the hawk who started it all. The Red Tailed Hawk sheltered in our yard during a snow storm. Here's a link to that photo - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2009/01/back-yard-hawk.html.

Gifts from the Heart - Valentine Gifts That Give Twice

Here are gifts from the heart that give twice.

Each of the unique Valentine presents featured is handcrafted with care by one of the artists and artisans of Etsy.com and carries a heart warming bonus. All or part of the profits are donated to charity.

These are gifts that are sure to be treasured.

The "Valentine's Swirl" heart pin heading this article is crafted by Kelly Henderson from recycled felted wool sweaters. It would look charming on a dress, hat, coat collar or scarf - a very sweet token of your affection.

Ten percent of every purchase at Kelly Henderson Design (http://KellyHendersonDesign.etsy.com)is donated to "Product Red" to help provide African's living with HIV/AIDS with lifesaving anti-retroviral therapy (http://www.joinred.com/Home.aspx)


At the "Handmade Help" shop you'll find "Heart of Gold," an original oil painting (13" X 13") as well as a great selection of art from a variety of gifted artists.

Handmade Help (http://handmadehelp.etsy.com) is a collective of artists who are survivors of cancer, or who have loved ones who are effected by or have succumbed to cancer. 100% of the profits from this shop funds cancer research through "Stand Up To Cancer" (http://www.standup2cancer.org/).


"Nichern Designs" offers this handy pouch in an endearing Valentine's print in both small and medium sizes. The pouches are fully lined in red cotton and are a perfect size for make up, pencils, keys, etc.

"Nichern Designs" (http://nicherndesigns.etsy.com) will donate 10% of this sale to Prevent Cancer (http://www.preventcancer.org).


At my own shop, "Personal Treasures", you'll find this elegant bracelet with brushed vermeil rounds (18 carat gold over sterling silver) alternating with smooth and shiny Garnets. The photo above highlights the bracelet's easy to use toggle clasp which is accented with a charm. This bracelet would look perfect with anything from jeans and a tailored white shirt to a cocktail dress.

You'll find a great selection of elegant jewelry at "Personal Treasures" (http://personaltreasures.etsy.com) and more casual jewelry at my "Mufi Jewels" store (http://mufi.etsy.com). 100% of the profits from both stores benefits "Charity Orphanage" in Liberia, West Africa. You can learn more about this project at http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/12/gem-of-cause-jewelry-benefitting.html.


"Tinker and Po" fingerless gloves are made from repurposed merino, lambswool, angora or cashmere sweaters. Because they are felted, the fabric is soft, warm, sturdy, and will not fray. This pair pictured above was created from light and warm ballet-pink cashmere. These stylish gloves will stretch to fit almost anyone and will keep your Valentine warm while working in a drafty office, while knitting, at the computer, etc.

Ten-percent of your purchase at "Tinker and Po" (http://TinkerAndPo.etsy.com) will be donated to "Autism Speaks", the U.S.A.'s top private funder of Autism research (http://www.autismspeaks.org)


Kelly from "Retrowhale" makes these funkily, adorable plantable cards from handmade, recycled paper that is embedded with wildflower seeds. Cards come with planting instructions, envelopes, and are packaged in a 100% biodegradable clear bag. These are perfect for children to use at school or if you just want to spread a little valentine sweetness to your garden loving friends. The set of six cards comes in three designs.

10% of proceeds from plantable cards at "Retrowhale" (http://retrowhale.etsy.com) go to Ace of Hearts (http://www.aceofheartsdogs.com/index.html) or Heal the Bay (http://www.healthebay.org/)


Kari of "Finestra" designs evocative jewelry featuring images from her own photography or from beautiful antique illustrations, like the "Maid in the Moon" pendant above. This image is from a poster for "Herrmann the Great," a magician well-known for his "Maid in the Moon" illusion. The same image can be purchased in a bracelet or earrings set with either Silver or Gold.

Finestra (http://Finestra.etsy.com) donates 20% of all sales to your choice of charities:
CARE: www.care.org
Doctors Without Borders: www.DoctorsWithoutBorders.org
Save the Children: www.SavetheChildren.org
American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
Susan G Komen for the Cure: www.komen.org
National Breast Cancer Foundation: www.nationalbreastcancer.org
The Children's Health Fund: www.childrenshealthfund.org
The Nature Conservancy: www.nature.org
AIDS Research Alliance: www.aidsresearch.org

Evolyn Brooks, is the creator of In My Solitude Boutique, an eco friendly home décor company, and of the Possibility Pillow. Each pillow is designed with a back pocket that can hold a loving note, affirmation, or wish for the future. Let your Valentine know that you're sweet on them and believe in their dreams.

Evolyn donates ten percent of the proceeds from each item at "In My Solitude Boutique" (http://inmysolitudeboutique.etsy.com) to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (http://www.bcrfcure.org/).

Want more ideas for Valentine's gifts that give back?

I frequently write about the grass roots philanthropy of artists and artisans. Just check the table of contents on the right side of the blog. You'll find many more unusual and creative items by browsing the articles listed under "Gifts That Benefit Charity".

Back Yard Hawk

It's a snowy, blowy, cold afternoon and I was curled up, staying cozy in my Center City, Philadelphia living room when I looked out and saw - a hawk! It was not five feet from me, probably sheltering from the wind by coming close to a house.

I called my husband Bill who took this shot. If the branches look
a tad blurred, it's because the photo is taken through a window, in a snow storm.

Here's a link to another hawk he photographed in Rittenhouse Square http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/01/red-hawk-in-rittenhouse-square.html

And here's some exciting Red Tail Hawk photos Bill found on the web - http://www.komar.org/faq/colorado-red-tailed-hawk/

Christmas at Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is a horticultural treasure with outdoor gardens, an enormous conservatory and fountains in the Brandywine Valley. It was founded by Pierre du Pont heir to the DuPont industrial fortune who devoted his life to developing the Longwood property.

At Christmas Longwood is a spectacular display of flowers, lights, lighted fountains and Christmas trees. My husband Bill and I visited last Saturday evening with his cousins, where he took this photo. I hope you enjoy it.

"A Gem of a Cause - Jewelry Benefitting Liberian Orphans" - December Update

All jewelry at Mufi Jewels at http://mufi.etsy.com is on sale to benefit "Charity Orphanage" in Liberia.

• Jewelry sales to date have funded 400 lbs. of rice and other staples for “Charity Orphanage” in Robertsport, Liberia! This first donation left the U.S. for Liberia the day after Thanksgiving – details are below.
• Christmas gift reminder for U.S. buyers - To assure timely delivery, I suggest ordering your jewelry gifts by Wednesday, December 17th. After that date Priority shipping is available.

‘A Gem of a Cause’ -

The jewelry sale is continuing through December 31st at Personal Treasures http://personaltreasures.etsy.com and Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com with discounts up to 20%. All pieces are one-of-a-kind or limited edition, original designs, and handmade with care by me. You’ll find the details (as well as many new ‘gift priced’ pieces) at the shops.

I'd like to help you make your holiday shopping a pleasant experience. Priority and international shipping, packaging in signature boxes, gift wrapping, cards with your message, shipping directly to the recipient of your gift - it's all available at small additional fees. Just ask.

All jewelry at Personal Treasures at http://mufi.personaltreasures.com is on sale to benefit "Charity Orphanage" in Liberia.

Update on the Liberian Orphanage project -

On November 28th, an expatriate Liberian couple boarded a plane to visit relatives for the holidays. In their luggage was the money we’ve collected to date, as well as messages and gifts that they agreed to personally deliver to “Charity Orphanage” in Robertsport, Liberia.

When she was 10-years-old, the woman was a student of my husband Bill when he taught in Liberia. They recently reconnected and we spent a wonderful day with her, her husband, and two of their children. We will be waiting for her safe return to hear more news of the orphanage as there are no longer phones or electricity in Robertsport

During the recent 12-year Civil War another teacher took in 35 children and founded “Charity Orphanage”. Before the war there were less than 10 orphanages in Liberia. Children without parents were informally fostered by relatives and neighbors. But in the war so many children lost their families that there are now more than 150 – almost none of them meeting the U.N.’s minimum requirements for basic human rights.

Bill is developing a project to improve conditions in Cape Mount County orphanages where Robertsport is located. He will be returning to Liberia in April 2009. Until then we will focus on providing basic assistance to “Charity Orphanage.” We will be sending the next shipment over in mid-January.

Bill recently retired as a child welfare social worker focusing in adoptions. He served as a Peace Corp volunteer in Liberia from 1969 to 1972.

The U.N. report on Liberia’s orphanages - http://unmil.org/documents/humanrights_approvedthematicreport2007.pdf.

Reflection and Setting Goals - Lay the Groundwork to Make 2009 Your Best Year Yet

Year end is a great time to reflect and plan the future. Here are questions to reflect on and answer that will help you make 2009 be your best year yet –

Answering these questions will help you celebrate what you’ve accomplished this year and lay the groundwork to make positive changes in the New Year. You may want to do the writing now, or in the quiet time between Christmas and New Year’s, whatever works for you. I usually start this process early and refine my answers before the year end, so that I feel clear, focused and ready as the New Year begins. To get the most from this activity I suggest you take a few hours to really think about your answers.

Yesterday I was a guest on Janet Taylor's 'Totally Organized' show on Blog Talk Radio, talking about this topic. You can listen to the show here: http://www/blogtalkradio.com/janettaylor. Here are the questions we discuss in depth -

What did you accomplish in 2008?
- What did you do that you are proud of?
- What problems have you solved?
- What actions have you taken?
- What have you done to take good care of yourself?
- What have you done to help others?

What were your disappointments?
- What dreams didn’t come true?
- Where did you get stuck?
- What did you give up on?
- Did you have any losses in 2008?
- Did changes in the economy hit you hard?
- Did you lose an important relationship?

What did you learn?
- Reflecting on your answers to the first 2 questions – what worked for you?
- What would you do differently?
- Are there personal values you want to focus on more strongly in the New Year?
- Would it help you to get additional support to stay on track?

How do you limit myself from getting what you want, and how can you stop? There are some habits and ways of thinking that will really get in the way when you want to make positive changes.
- How do you limit myself? For example:
Do you let other people’s opinions of you mean more than your own and not do what you plan because of fear of criticism?
Do you not follow through on what you say you’ll do?

Take an honest – and gentle – look at yourself.

- What do you say about yourself to explain these limits? How we explain our actions to ourselves shapes how we see ourselves, what we think is possible, and what we’re willing to try to do.
Do you beat yourself up when you make a mistake and call yourself stupid?
Do you think you don’t have enough time?
That you’re not good with money?
Do you think you’re too much? Or not enough?

These and other ‘limiting beliefs’ can stop you in your tracks before you even start, or make you feel like a car that’s driving with the emergency brake on as you try to move forward. Negative answers may be an indication of limiting negative beliefs about yourself. The good news is that while you won’t change everything all at once during the course of next year you can make substantial progress on the toughest of these limits. And making changes in this area can lead to great fulfillment.

How would you like to think of yourself in the future?

What are my strongest values?
- What do you need to do to feel that you are living in integrity? For example is it important for you to act with compassion? Tell the truth? Challenge yourself to take risks? Whatever the answers are, they will be unique to you and living your values is of utmost importance to your peace of mind.

What are the important roles you play in your life? And which areas of your life need more attention next year? Is your relationship with your parents, your spouse, your children, your co-workers, what you want it to be? How about your relationship with yourself and how you care for you?

Want to go further exploring where to put your focus next year. Here's a link to an article and audio that takes you step-by-step into a 'Whole Life Review' that helps you assess your satisfaction with the various areas of your life. After a Whole Life Review you’ll be sparkling clear about your direction for 2009. http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-goals-on-blog-talk-radio.html

What are my goals for 2009?
What actually works in setting effective, achievable goals? The next link takes you to step-by-step, proven information about what's important in setting goals you can achive - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-and-goals-part-2.html

How can you get the support and structure you need to stay on track?
The link below leads to an article and audio that explains a variety of ways to get support to stay motivated and on track. One or more of these suggestions will work for you. http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/05/support-for-your-success.html

Where would you like to be in your life this time next year?

The Habit of Gratitude

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. What are you thankful for?

-Natalie_Joy - Enormous wealth, but not the monetary kind. Family, friends, health, employment, optimism and faith.
-andreaeleitch - I’m grateful to my parents for providing me with a great home and education, I hope I will be able to do the same for my kids!
-retrochique - I'm thankful for my wonderful family and friends!
-willrobinsoniii - I am thankful for four uninterrupted days with my family.
-MarkClayson - Grateful my life has been productive in health and love and that I am able to view the future with optimism.
-shopbatty - Lil sis eloped. Grateful to meet my new brother-in-law for the first time this Thanksgiving!
-babyluvgifts - I'm grateful for my health, and that of my 2 daughters and my husband.
-sedruola - I'm thankful for family, friends and the peace I feel even in the midst of becoming unemployed. . . life is really good!
-jnpottery - I'm thankful for my wonderful family, and all of my very supportive online friends! Etsy, Twitter & Finer Kitchens foodies.
-VioletDelirium - I'm grateful for the support from my family (specifically my husband) to do what I love and love what I do.
-chichiboulie - Children's views of the world.
-SewDanish - I'm grateful because I live a positive, happy, healthy and creative life with a wonderful husband and great friends.
-journeyoflove - Grateful for family and friends, being employed, a roof over my head, and finding new things to learn about in life.
-JNilsson - I am grateful for my ever supportive family & friends, the gifts & talents God has blessed me with & for living my dream.
-tmusichans - I am thankful for 2 great kids. A wonderful partner in life. Supportive creative folks who fuel my creativity! Peace!
-RDEMarketing - Being surrounded by wonderfully supportive family and friends.
-mrsmapp What else!! A wonderful husband and 2 great kids. Their health and positive emotion (plus my job) have made my life +++.
-2kutekreations I am thankful for my family and for my wonderful nation, land that I love.
-HarpArora Canadian but grateful :) For new hope in this world, for barriers coming down that separate us from each other & nature.

These are all messages from people I've met through the social networking site Twitter (http://twitter.com/phyllismufson). I sent a note this morning asking what people are grateful for and I've had lovely messages trickling in all day.

I have so much to be grateful for. What about you?

Gratitude is a habit I practice because when I am feeling truly grateful I feel most deeply myself. Just a little of what I am grateful for:

- My husband Bill who loves me unconditionally.
- My growing desire to serve, and the tools I've learned to help others. I've always wanted to make an impact and now I do, more and more.
- My family, friends, clients...who have taken me into their lives.
- The challenges I've faced that have shown me my resources.

How can you make a practice of gratitude?

Here are a few ways you can cultivate gratitude at Thanksgiving, and in your daily life. Please feel free to add more suggestions - and also what you are grateful for.
- Start your Thanksgiving dinners by having each guest talk about what they are grateful for. This creates a wonderful atmosphere of intimacy.
- Keep a daily gratitude journal or list. It can be really simple, a few words as a reminder or more elaborate.
In an experimental comparison, those who kept gratitude journals on a weekly basis exercised more regularly, reported fewer physical symptoms, felt better about their lives as a whole, and were more optimistic about the upcoming week ...(Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
- Stop and reflect daily on what you are grateful for. Pick a regular time and create the habit.
Participants in a study of daily gratitude habits were more likely to report having helped someone with a personal problem or having offered emotional support to another.

To close, here's a great article from the blog Zen Habits, "Tremendously Important Ways That Gratitude Can Change Your Life." http://zenhabits.net/2008/10/8-tremendously-important-ways-that-gratitude-can-change-your-life/

Artisans Holiday "EtsyFest" Sale at Etsy.com

November 27 - December 1

“Holiday EtsyFest” is coming, a Black Friday to Cyber Monday extravaganza with almost 200 artists and designers from etsy.com! You'll find great one of-a-kind, creative and unusual presents for everyone on your list; jewelry, clothing and accessories, children and baby gifts, cards and scrap book supplies, fine arts, ceramics, gifts for the home and more.

So, skip the long lines this year and try Christmas shopping the easy way....online....and get some great one of-a-kind items that are all handmade.

Here’s how to shop EtsyFest:

Visit Etsy.com and search using "EtsyFest" as your search term or check the “Holiday EtsyFest” blog at http://heatherknitzgiveaways.blogspot.com/ for a searchable by category list of sellers. You'll receive special discounts from participating shop owners between Thursday, November 27 and Monday, December 1.

Each Etsy store will have their own sale terms, clearly marked in the "Shop Announcement" (in the gray box above the items they are selling). All store accept PayPal as payment, and many stores accept other payment methods, so it's hassle free!

I'm participating in Holiday EtsyFest!

Get 10% off one piece, 15% off two, 20% off three or more cool and unique, gemstone, silver and gold jewelry at Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com and the elegant jewelry at Personal Treasures http://personaltreasures.etsy.com. Free shipping on purchases over $50. Discounts will be combined between both stores. Shop at the regular prices and I will refund your savings through PayPal.

All pieces are one of a kind or limited edition original designs, and handmade with care by me. All proceeds benefit “Charity Orphanage” in Liberia, West Africa.

I ship internationally. Priority shipping, packaging in signature boxes, gift wrapping, cards with your message - it's all available. Just ask. I'd like to help you make your holiday shopping an easy and pleasant experience.