MARIALUNA STUDIO

MACRAME JEWELRY ALL GROWN UP.

2012-01-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

I am so in love with this macramé silk bracelet. My first macramé jewelry was a choker, given to me by my husband's best friend. It was made out of beige hemp cord, and I love it. But now I'm older....much older that is (lol) and need my jewelry to be more sophisticated.

The first macramé jewelry I made out of silk was for a lovely lady in Australia who loved my leather lariat, but wanted something other than leather. Thus, I came to suggest making it out of weaved silk cord for her. It was a lovely piece although I didn't think anything about it then other than I was weaving it for Rosemary. This was about a year ago or more like one and a half...maybe two. Boy, where did time go!!! Anyway, Rosemary lost my contact info and just found me again last month. She sent me a sweet message of how many compliments she received whenever she wears it and how much she loves it...and how glad she was to find me again. Very kind of her :).

Her message reminded me of that particular lariat necklace and how lovely it was. Thus, it inspired me to make this particular double wrap bracelet I named Raka, meaning full moon, for the wonderfully marbled blue picasso beads and how the sterling silver beads and the silk cords shine all around them....echoing their mysterious beauty.

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!

2012-01-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

This is a page from my old Moleskine notebook. I ran into it while looking for something else. Seeing it, I remember how I longed to do what is truly mine. Losing the corporate job I had at the time threw me into a whole other world altogether where I have all the time in the world to do my art. Thus came the question, what is it that I really want? What is it that is truly mine? Needless to say that I was scrambling, reaching for air...trying not to drown. It has been a long journey since then, but I came out of it as a better person. I have a better understanding of myself now...closer to my true self and what I am about. Although the journey will never be over, I am many many steps closer since then and glad of it. I feel tired and glad at the same time. Glad that the past is over and glad for the now and the future. Thanks Universe for what was and what is...and what will be. 2012 will be great!! Happy New Year all!!

SALILA [water]

2011-12-07T12:14:00.001-08:00

I fell for these lovely natural aquamarine gemstones with its variety of colors, ranging from sea foam green to robins egg blue, once I laid my eyes on them. For awhile, I was not sure what to do with them, but they keep calling my name. So I would come and touch them everyday...just as I do with my other stones waiting to be turned into beautiful pieces of jewelry. A few days ago, I grab them, some pearls, chain and what not and set to work. I made Salila into a double layer bracelet and arranged them so so that the pearls and gemstones roll and chase each other as wave on the surface of water would.

Aquamarine is a 19th anniversary gemstone, and birthstone of the month of March.

Metaphysically, aquamarine is known as a stone of courage and fortitude that can bring great power. It is said to assist with quick intellectual response. It brings inner peace and self-love, gives shielding for the aura, and is said to bring angels for their guidance and protection. As such, it is an excellent crystal for meditation. Aquamarine is used metaphysically to dispel anger and fear. Aquamarine is also used psychically to do past life recall and work. It is also said to be a wonderful good luck stone. Aquamarine is reputed to assist withcalming communication issues. It is said to be attuned to the sea and protect travelerson water and sailors. In crystal healing lore Aquamarine has been used for healing GERD, chronic fatigue, the endocrine system, eyes and eyesight, fluid retention, headaches, intestinal disorders, the nervous system, phobias, and teeth and gums. Aquamarine is associated with the throat chakra.

PEAR TART

2011-12-05T21:52:00.001-08:00

Apparently making tart is easier than what I had imagined. Soft pear and tart with a hint of almond. I used muscadine jelly than the usual apricot. HEAVENLY!!

MARTABAK TELUR

2011-01-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

New year, new habbit...new things to think about. Although I did not officially make this my new year's resolution, it is my intention to get to know cooking from my home town better...the food from the lustrous Indonesia. My first experiment is a dish called Martabak Telur which basically is wrapped ground meat, eggs and shallots, served with cucumber salad. You can make your own martabak skin or use ready made egg roll skins instead...just like I used on the picture.

Although martabak telur is usually eaten as an afternoon snack, it also makes a wonderful breakfast. I can eat it anytime of the day really :)
Ingredients
Skin
500 gr flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup water
oil
Filling
400 gr ground meat [traditionally we use ground beef, but I use turkey in mine]
6 cloves shallots, minced
4 stems green onions, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground caraway
10 eggs
Skin | Mix flour, salt and water until the mixture forms a ball. Soak in oil for about 2 hours. Roll dough on oiled surface to form a square.

Filling | Heat a couple of tablespoons oil on a pan, add shallots and sauté until soft and aromatic. Add ground meat, black pepper, salt, coriander and carraway. Cook until meat is done. Whisk 2 eggs, add green onions and ground meat mixture.
Martabak | Heat some oil in a pan on medium low heat and place the skin. Place the filling mixture into the skin, just enough to leave some room on the sides. Fold the sides to form a package. Flip once the bottom side turned brown.
Enjoy with cucumber salad and hot chili.
This recipe is courtesy of my cousin Daisy Legimin: daisycooking.wordpress.com/2010/11/25/martabak-telur/

Santa Brought Me A Special Gift

2010-12-28T18:31:00.000-08:00

Yes, I have been an extremely good girl this year. Santa brought me the long coveted Kodak Duaflex II. Here are my first TTV photographs I took with it. It's so much fun! Thanks Santa!!

Kupu-kupu

2010-11-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

One of the most adorable creatures on this earth, butterflies only last for a short time. I do wish they could stay around longer. A butterfly's beauty and uniqueness have long inspire us. Kupu-kupu, Indonesian for butterfly, is my first piece to glorify this wonderful creature.

Expect What????

2010-09-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

I love making things... jewelry, bags, crocheting, knitting, painting, drawing, ceramics... anything. You name it, I probably did it at one time or another. Yes, woodworking too. I did that for awhile :) It's all like playing to me. It was fun because I had no expectation of the outcome of my art. Then, a few months after I decided to sell my jewelry this 'expectation' rose. I wanted people to love them and buy them!! The focus became making everybody happy and I stopped creating from joy, the thing that makes creating fun in the first place. Then I went through a phase that I called 'Sucky Phase' and did not make anything because I expected so much out of my art and it scared me. As an artist, I have decided that it was not a way to live or create...and I let the expectation go. Now, I let my art flow and come out as it comes out from my heart. I let it into the world without any expectation...or maybe not as much :)

Click on the photos to go to my Etsy shop.

All The Things I Love

2010-09-08T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love working with fiber. I learned to crochet when I was 9 years old and started sewing when I was in middle-school. I used to make bags and hair accessories out of my mother's scrap material. Her scrap bin was my treasure trove :)

I first incorporated my love for fiber in the velvet beads earrings. After experimenting with other materials, I have come back to include more fiber in my collection with this Ameli, a bracelet made out of leather, crocheted cotton cord and recycled glass... completed with an antiqued brass clasp.

Letting go

2010-09-03T14:18:00.000-07:00

In art school, they did not teach you anything about letting go. Sometimes as artists, we love our work so much because they are after all our labor of love. Now and then, I find myself hanging on to some of my pieces. I suppose it is life...people, possessions, animals and everything else in your life: you let go when you're ready. Everything moving in and out of your life in its own good time. There is no supposed to. There is no must. Sometimes you realize you're ready, sometimes you don't. Whatever it is is okay.

I kept this bracelet, Indri, in its box for 6 months after it was finished. I have not listed it until now because I love it so and was not ready to let go. But I think I am ready now to share all the love I put in it with the world...and eventually with the owner.

Other things I'm working on

2010-08-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

Recently I picked up knitting. I have been working on this scarf for about a year when I'm not working on my jewelry or graphics. It is very soothing to do. Unlike graphics and jewelry, I can do this while watching TV with my hubby. At least I can be productive while vegging out, right...lol. This olive scarf is my venture into adding designs onto my scarves. I have already marked my knitting design book for other patterns I want to try. A little ambitious you think?

Georgia Etsy's 2nd Annual Peachy Deal Sale

2010-06-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

Visit these Georgia Etsy Street artists offering fantastic sales between

Sunday, June 20st to Sunday, June 27th!

Search etsy for key word peachydeals

Participating Shops:

Addy B's Cakes
http://addybscakes.etsy.com/
Gourmet, homemade pound cakes in a wide variety of flavors
All cakes 20% off, use coupon code PEACHY. Discount will be refunded via paypal.

Amelia’s Soap Co.
http://amelias.etsy.com/
Handmade Soap Products
15% discount throughout shop; Refund through PayPal

ArtisticPaws23
http://artisticpaws23.etsy.com/
Fuzzy Butts t-shirts and folk art paintings of dogs
Free Shipping.

Artistspirit
http://artistspirit.etsy.com/
Glass Fusion Jewelry & Plates
All items 20% off

black tulip shop
http://blacktulipshop.etsy.com/
handmade accessories
Peachy Deals sale section

CraftersCrossing
http://crafterscrossing.etsy.com/
Handmade Swarovski and wire jewelry
20% off any purchase over $10.00. Discount will be refunded thru Paypal.

Darcey Lane Designs
http://darceylanedesigns.etsy.com/
Custom made Birthday Outfits. Sassy ruffle panty (bloomers)
Custom Children clothes traditional with modern twist.
All purchases 20% off, use coupon code PEACHY. Discount will be refunded via paypal

Daughters Vintage
http://daughtersvintage.etsy.com/
Repurposed vintage jewelry and accessories with sweet, Southern flair.
10% off everything, use coupon code PEACHY. Discount will be refunded via paypal.

deannatroupe
http://deannatroupe.etsy.com/
Free Shipping. Peachy Deals Sale Section.

Deuce Goods
http://panAsh.etsy.com
Handmade Beanies, Cozies, Bottle Cap Art & Badge Reels
PEACHY DEALS Sale Section 15% Off

duchessdesigns
http://duchessdesigns.etsy.com/
Handmade jewelry
Peachy Deals section that is 15% off, price is already marked down.

Freckles Galore
http://frecklesgalore.etsy.com/
Crayon Rolls, Ouchie Bags, Popsicle Wraps, Nerf Ammo Belts, Locker Magnets, Babydoll Diapers and Pee Pee Domes
20% off everything. Use coupon code PEACHY. Refund given via PayPal.

Handiworks by Janice
http://handiworksbyjanice.etsy.com/
Exquisite one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry
Free shipping and a $5 gift certificate towards a future purchase included.
Enter Peachy Deals in message to seller upon checkout.

Hartley Soap
http://hartleysoap.etsy.com/
Handmade Cold Process Soap
PEACHY DEALS: Buy one Bar and get a free travel size bar!

JenstheBestofcom
http://jensthebestofcom.etsy.com/
Artwork inspired by Music. Fine Art prints, wall plaques
free shipping

K. Berlin Metalsmith
http://kberlin.etsy.com/
Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry – Sterling Silver and gems
Free Shipping on All items

Maria Luna
http://marialuna.etsy.com/
Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry and Photography
15% off purchase, refunded through paypal with keyword PeachyDeals

mod momME
http://modmomme.etsy.com/
Handmade accessories for mom and baby.
$5 off every $25 you spend, not including custom items. Use promo code PeachDeals in notes to seller. Money refunded via Paypal.

Mommy So Sweet Boutique
http://mommysosweet.etsy.com/
Little girls' dresses (bandana dresses and pillowcase dresses) and shoes
FREE SHIPPING on select items

Outward Bound
http://outwardbound.etsy.com/
Recycled notebooks from your favorite TV shows and movies!
15% off your total!

Priss Designs
http://prissdesigns.etsy.com/
Modern affordable nature art prints
Free Shipping

Pumpernickel Hart
http://pumpernickelhart.etsy.com/
Handmade polymer clay jewelry and unique gifts.
Free Shipping

Smelly Rhino Studio
http://smellyrhino.etsy.com/
Paintings, pet portraits, prints, cards, and whimsy
15% off your total!

The Pink Locket
http://thepinklocket.etsy.com/
Modern Vintage Handmade Jewelry
20% off Summer Collection and FREE Shipping on all items

the StarShine Shoppe
http://brandylinn18.etsy.com/
Handmade beautiful bottle jewelry
Buy 1 get 1 half off all bottle necklaces

Happy Shopping!

The final bangle

2010-05-12T18:08:00.000-07:00

So here is the final product folks. It is whimsical yet elegant. This piece is somewhat different from my usual format. It has brought out the girlie girl in me, and she is so much fun!! I hope you like it :)

Sitting on my bench...I have...

2010-05-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

I love movement and rhythm...and fluidity in everything which I think translates in this piece. It is a bangle made out of antiqued copper which apparently I use quite a bit lately. When I put it on my arm, it looks like somebody has drawn on my arm or its my new tattoo...very cool effect indeed. I am contemplating whether to leave this piece as is or if I should add some stones on it...or perhaps some playful acrylic flowers???

Anyway, this is what I have in the works right now. I am looking forward to see what I will do with this bangle next. I hope you enjoy the ride as well and check back to see the finished piece soon.

Join me for Felicity Taste of Art, May 1- 8 2010

2010-04-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to join a group of wonderful artists for this show. Stop by to see me and tons of other local Atlanta artists May 1-8 at Felicity (326 Sandy Springs Circle ~ 404.843.6456) www.FelicityGifts.com Schedule is as follow:
Sat, May 1: Opening night will include live music and healthy food by Rosie Milan.
Wed, May 5: 5-9pm. Meet and greet the artists, wine tasting and live music
Sat, May 8: last chance to appreciate and purchase these original works of Art

Behind the Creation of Melati - A Bridal Bracelet

2010-03-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Honestly, this is my first blog post in a while. However, I would love to share this very special bracelet that I created for a very special friend of mine. Cheryl came to me with a pair of earrings she will be wearing to accessorize her wedding dress. She thought I would be the perfect person to complete this ensemble for her. It was a great honor for me to be asked to create this piece. Thanks Cheryl!!

It is so thrilling when you find that piece you have been looking for, a very special piece such as the vintage 1970s New England antique brass piece for this bracelet. This was not the first center piece I found for this bracelet, but could not help myself when I saw it. I knew it was the perfect center piece for Cheryl's bracelet. I supposed it was much like life. You tried on one piece after another until you find the one that fits just right. Cheryl mentioned that she was thinking about a pearl bracelet once, and I kept that in mind while creating it for her. I chose to use two different sizes and shapes of pearls to add to the texture and richness of the center pieces’design. Thus, the interest will not stop on the center piece, but goes all around this bracelet. Everywhere you see, there is something to look at.

Sometimes things do take a different turn than what was planned. In the case of this bracelet, it took a turn into the best possibility. At the beginning, I wanted a toggle clasp at the end of this piece. However hard I looked, I could not find one that was anywhere near perfect for this piece. The universe does have its own way of showing you things though. In the middle of working on another project, I ran into the 3 to 1 connector I used here. I bought it for that project. When I got it, I knew that this piece belonged to Cheryl's bracelet. It was a perfect repetition of the center piece.

The locket was also very special. I did not mention the locket to my dear friend. I wanted it to be a surprise, which I'm glad she loved. It took me awhile to find this piece, but it was all worth it. The locket will be a wonderful reminder of the one you love. Years from now, when you look at it, you can tell P.A....geez honey, you've gotten old!! :)

Holiday Home Show

2009-12-06T16:52:00.000-08:00

Please join me and other North Georgia Etsy artists this Saturday, 12.12.09 at 10am-4pm for some holiday shopping, apple cider and cookies. One of our team member has been so generous to let us use her beautiful house for this purpose: 585 Fowler Road. Alpharetta, GA 20004. I am looking forward to see you all there :)

Great Paintings On Etsy

2009-10-13T14:11:00.000-07:00

Raising a little boy, I am all too familiar with robots. I can only dream of being able to paint something like this lovely red robot. Yeah, The View Mistress is not a real person, but she looks kind. She looks like an old friend. I believe a lot of us women dream of being The View Mistress, being able to do everything...hopefully in no time at all. We all want to be that super woman at some level. To have all the time in a day to finish everything we set out to do.

For its size (5" x 5"), this painting is packed with details. You can see that lots of attention and care was poured over this piece. It is funny, refreshing and adorable. The artist also painted the sides of the canvas which means no frame required, which I love. I cannot wait to see more of this little robot!!

Get The View Mistress at Smelly Rhino Studio

Georgia Etsy Street Team's Fall Sale

2009-10-05T10:45:00.001-07:00

There is no better give than a unique, one of a kind, handmade gift. Take advantage of our Fall sale, and have your pick before everybody else!!
This weekend only! Search for Itsfallyall or gaetsy- team.

List of Participating Shops:

Amber's Aromatherapy
http://ambersaromatherapy.etsy.com/
Handmade soaps, lotions, lip balm, milk bath and custom blended teas
20% all orders

Amelia's Soap Co.
http://amelias.etsy.com/
Handmade Soap Products
15% discount on soaps

April's Afghans
http://aprilsafghans.etsy.com/
Afghans and other crocheted household items
Free U.S. shipping

Artistspirit - A Reflection of Mind
http://www.artistspirit.etsy.com/
Glass fusion jewelry, plates and coasters
15% off any item

Beautiful Tree Huggers
http://beautifultreehuggers.etsy.com/
Homemade all natural soap, lotion, etc.
Everything in the store 20% off

Be Inspired Designs
http://beinspireddesigns.etsy.com/
Scrabble Tile Pendant Jewelry & Accessories
Buy 2, Get 1 FREE plus FREE SHIPPING

Bewhiskered
http://bewhiskered.etsy.com/
(stuffed) animal skin loveys
Free U.S. shipping, $5 off shipping everywhere else!

Bug's Hugs
http://bugshugs.etsy.com/
Unique handmade creations for anyone that could use a hug!
Free shipping (U.S. only) plus 10% off all orders

Cindy’s Too Cute Creations
http://Mytoocutecreations.com
Boutique Monograms and Personalized Gifts
25% off of all Embroidery Blanks!

Cocoa Dreams
http://cocoadreams.etsy.com/
Personalizable baby bibs, blankets, burp cloths and aprons
Free domestic shipping on everything in shop

Crafters Crossing
http://crafterscrossing.etsy.com/
Handmade Swarovski crystal and wire jewelry
10% off merchandise orders totaling up to $99.99
15% off merchandise orders totaling $100 or over

The Crafty Coop
http://lilcoop1.etsy.com/

Handmade resin jewelry with glitter
All necklaces 20% off

Debidesigns
http://debidesigns.etsy.com/
embrodiery,dolls,quilted items
20% off section

Deb's Pane In The Glass
http://sunnya.etsy.com/
Anything Stained Glass from sun catchers, ceiling fan pull chains to business card holders and holiday items
Free USA and International Shipping!

Deuce Goods
http://panash.etsy.com/
Be original this Fall with one of a kind accessories & gifts
15% off All Hats and Scarves

Everyday May
http://everydaymay.etsy.com/
toddler items and women's accessories
FREE shipping to U.S. on all items

FerntreeStudio
http://ferntreestudio.etsy.com/
Adorable Art for Children, Babies and Fun Grownups!
Free worldwide shipping, plus 10% off storewide -all refunded via paypal

Fluffy Flowers
http://fluffyflowers.etsy.com/
cute Creatures & pretty Pouches
FREE shipping to ANYWHERE in the world

The Goddess Within You
http://thegoddesswithinyou.etsy.com/
Artisian Jewelry
Free shipping

Jenjie's Stuff
http://jenjie.etsy.com/
Beautiful and Fun Handmade Items
Free U.S. Shipping and 10% off all items

JoyAnna - all things beautiful
http://joyanna.etsy.com/
Purses, pillows, scrapbook covers, tissue holders etc
FREE SHIPPING within the Continental USA on everything in the shop.

Kartu Graphics
http://www.kartu.etsy.com/
Designer of our fabulous sale graphic

15% OFF

K. Berlin Metalsmith
http://kberlin.etsy.com/
Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry - Precious Metals and gems
Free Shipping on All items

Madame Monogram
http://madamemonogram.etsy.com/
Personalized intems for Bridal, Baby, Child and Home
FREE pair of luggage tags with any purchase, a $12.00 value

Maria Luna
http://marialuna.etsy.com/
Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry and Fine Art Photography
15% OFF excluding items that are already on sale

mod momME
http://modmomme.etsy.com/
Accessories for mom and baby
10% off your total order. Use promo code "fallyall" Money refunded via PayPal.

Nicolita Love
http://nicolitalove.etsy.com/
Handmade and Vintage Jewelry and Accessories
Free Shipping on orders over $20 & Free Nola Brooch with purchase

Nipurnascreation
http://nipurnascreation.etsy.com/
Unique Handmade Jewelry
Buy one get second one half off (BoGo)Sale

Princess Ciarra Raye’s Designs
http://princessciarraraye.etsy.com/
Jewelry for the little girl inside you
Free Shipping

The Print Duchess Studio
http://tlhprints.etsy.com/
Custom Stationery & Personal and Promo Designs
20% off Rectangular Address Labels

PrissDesigns
http://prissdesigns.etsy.com/
Original Mixed Media Art
15% off everything!

Rachelsilk
http://rachelsilk.etsy.com/
Handmade Silk Scarves and Gifts
Sale Items 15% off with Free Shipping

ribbits
http://ribbits.etsy.com/
Kids wear and more
Free shipping

Smelly Rhino Studio
http://smellyrhino.etsy.com/
Art with a little Humor! Original paintings and Prints
10% off and free shipping!

Sweet Pea Boutique
http://happygrandma402905.etsy.com/
Colorful hairbows and clips for girls of all ages!
Buy any hairbow or clip set and get one HALF PRICE, with FREE SHIPPING for orders $10 and up

Worthy Soy Candles & Crochet
http://worthysoycandles.etsy.com/
Soy Candles & Unique Crochet Creations
10% Off Everything!

A Story Of A Necklace Named Annabelle

2009-08-27T09:27:00.001-07:00

Being too hard on ourselves, I am sure, is something that everybody can relate to. I tried and tried ... and tried to include other elements onto my Annabelle necklace. I added more pearls, but they didn't seem to belong there. I added other sorts of kinds of beads, they didn't speak to me either. Other kinds of cords did not work. I decided to leave the project for awhile. When I revisited it, I realized that it was perfect the way it was. It did not need anything else. It is a simple, but not understated, piece of jewelry that makes you feel good when you wear it. When I tried it on to see how it wears, I did not want to take it off. A clean, simple and elegant piece of necklace that makes a girl looks and feels priceless.

A realization came to mind as I put together this necklace. Sometimes it seems like that is how it is with life too. We are too busy with the hustle and bustle of life, keep adding distractions, one after another. We get angry and frustrated because nothing seems to work. We forget to focus inward to what really matters inside ourselves. Life should be clean, simple and elegant as well, no clutter. Keep to your core selves instead of worrying about a million other things. Keep it in the here and now of your true being...inside. Clean, simple and elegant always works, always flattering.
Find Annabelle at Maria Luna

Peanut Butter Banana French Toast

2009-08-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

This makes a delightful brunch...very satisfying. The saltiness and crunchiness of the peanut butter with the tenderness and sweetness of banana and the french toast makes this a sandwich to die for!! My son does not usually like french toast, but he loves this!!

Wonderful Children Clothing Found on Etsy

2009-08-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

Imagine clothing that keeps your children warm but will not over heat them in those cold cold months. Especially since they do run around quite a bit busy as a bee exploring every corner of the house. It will still be warm when it is wet, such as when they spill their drinks. If you are a mom, you know what I am talking about. My dear friend Sew Katiepie makes them so handsomely out of New Zealand Merino wool which is a really friendly baby/toddler fabric, being 100% natural (this is what allows children's skin to breath and will not over heat them). It is naturally flame retardant and self-extinguishing. Further, as this is a fine fiber, it does not irritate the skin like traditional wool might. Also, it is parent friendly too - machine washable.

In addition, Kate also makes cute children's aprons inspired by her little girl who loves to cook. These aprons are so pretty, they can be worn as a layer over shirt and jeans.

Get these items now before it gets cold at www.sewkatiepie.etsy.com (click on the title)

A Window of Rainbow

2009-07-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

As an artist, colors always captivate me. These beautiful window displays took me by surprise. Is it possible...I thought I was seeing rainbows glistening in the sunlight. I wanted to buy them all and display them all over my windows at home. However, the price tags stopped me :D

I am glad to have taken the pictures. They are the next best thing to the real thing...and still capture my heart to these days.

Velvety Velvety

2009-07-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

The first time I learned to crochet was in middle school. Apparently, as I realized now, I have been taking it for granted...until I found this wonderful yarn made out of Italian velvet. I was hooked...I was in love. It was so smooth, soft and gave me the warm fuzzy feeling but yet it looks elegant. It was beautiful. I bought some and started crocheting the amagurami balls to be used as beads. They look wonderful!! However, now I wanted something more than bead shapes. Thus, giving birth to these amazing creations of mine. They are fun, rich in textures and unique. Here are some to start with..count on many many more in the future

Flowers: the symbol of love and compassion

2009-06-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27150180
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27021152
We find flowers everywhere, from a well manicured landscaping to the middle of the woods, even on a sandy beach. To me, flowers are a way of God showing how much he loves us. The sight of flowers, whenever we decide to slow down and look around, lifts our spirits up regardless of their size. They are soothing to the soul. People give flowers to their loved ones...to express their love and compassion, to show that they care. Imagine receiving flowers every morning, that will definitely start my days off right. With this thought in mind, I created this set of earrings and necklace. Whether this gift is for someone you love or for yourself...it will remind that person how much they are loved. There are seven little flowers in the middle of the necklace, perfect for a seventh anniversary gift!!

PEACHY DEALS - A Georgia Etsy's Handcrafted Sale

2009-06-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

The sale will be held Sunday, 6/21 - Sunday, 6/28. Go to etsy (click on the blog's title) and search for gaetsyteam or peachydeals for your deals!! Great handmade items made here in Georgia.

I will be offering 15% OFF all of my jewelries, fine art photographs, paper goods and graphic services from both Kartu and Maria Luna.

Maria Luna on Etsy's Treasury

2009-06-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=57061

Check out the wonderful pink crystal earrings!! Thanks SunnyA!!

From the kitchen of Tommy Allen

2009-06-05T13:54:00.001-07:00

Hello...my name is Tommy. I am 7 years old. I love to make my own concoctions. This one is a twist of one of my favorite desserts, a rootbeer float. I called it Chocolate Rootbeer Float. I hope you like it!! Enjoy!! Oh and make sure you put in lots of love...that's what makes it taste really really good. The more love you put in it, the better it tastes!!

Look who arrived in the mail today!

2009-06-04T14:49:00.000-07:00

This sweet little penguin was made by my friend Yarnabees after the little penguin with blue feet named Chilly from the children's book 365 Penguins for my son Tommy. He is the highlight of the day. Tommy was so thrilled to see the sweet and beautifully made little Chilly...even more so when he found out that it came from Yarnabees. He looks much prettier than in the picture!!

Little Chilly came with a 'Little Chilly' bookmark which I claimed ownership to :) But who am I kidding right...we all know wh0 the bookmark will end up belonging to.

Yarnabees also makes beautiful ducks, lambs, bunnies and much more. Like Little Chilly? Get your own at www.yarnabees.etsy.com

The Path Unwinding

2009-05-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

At first sight, this piece took my breath away. It summarizes what I have learned through the winding road of my own path in life and still have to remind myself of everyday. I have wonderful people in my life who remind me of everything this labyrinth says. They made me realize that I am somebody. What I have been through is what makes me special. It makes me the person I am today. This journey is my own, nobody can do this for me...I am in charge. This wonderful piece of art work certainly does what those people did for me, without the painful conversations :) I am thankful for them everyday!!

This piece is not just beautiful, but also an inspiring one. It brings peace to my aching soul just thinking about running my fingers through it. Find this at www.jmliss.etsy.com

Sunset

2009-05-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

If I can put one touch of rosy sunset into the life of any man or woman, I shall feel that I have worked with God.
G.K. Chesterton

These lovely sunset pictures were taken during our Spring Break last April. I found them to be peaceful and more beautiful than I remembered it to be.

Great Stuff I Found on Etsy

2009-05-08T07:36:00.000-07:00

This beautiful baby swing reminded me of my own childhood. My mother used to hang a long piece of material, in Indonesia we call it selendang, through the ceiling beam to swing us to sleep. Well, this is a great version of it. I am sure it works much better and easier than my mom's. Plus, it functions as a hammock for your bigger kids as well. Found it at: http://robynas.etsy.com

Opinion???

2009-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

What do you think this should be? Double wrapped bracelet or a necklace?

I have made it to the Front Page of Etsy!

2009-04-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!! I can hardly believe it!
Thanks Ira for letting me know :)
(of iragranteco: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7265449)

My Favorite Brownies ever!!

2009-04-27T10:43:00.001-07:00

This is the best brownies recipe I have ever tried. It's super fudgie, gooey ooey goodness is unphantomable (is that a word?). Especially delicious right out of the oven!!

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/3 cups sugar
1/2 cup of butter or margarine, melted
4 oz melted chocolate
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 Tbsp water or dark rum (or espresso)
1/2 cup nuts if desired

Preheat oven to 350˚F. Grease 13x9 inch baking pan.
Combine flour, baking soda an dsalt in small bowl. Stir sugar, butter, chocolate, eggs, water and vanilla extract in large bowl. Stire in flour mixture. Stir in nuts. Spread into prepared baking pan.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out slightly sticky. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars.

Enjoy!!

For Abby

2009-04-24T14:17:00.001-07:00

This package I put together especially for Abby. This is what you should be looking for in the mail Abby :)

2009-04-23T12:53:00.001-07:00

I sold this pair of earrings!! Thanks Abby!!!

Can we say...RED!!!

2009-04-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

This one is for my mother in law...who loves red!!! I think it's very sexy!!!

2009-04-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

I am crocheting more velvet beads!!

Vegetables and Fruit garden

2009-04-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

My son and I planted some okra and cantalope seedlings and some basil and mints in our backyard yesterday. I was not planning to get in the dirt, but it happens to be so. It was fun none the less. Well, Tommy had fun running around the yard amongst the tall beautiful purple flowers from our weeds :( Oh well, they're beautiful none the less. I just hope the chicken wire will keep the bunny out!!

2009-04-18T08:41:00.001-07:00

Family and I are off to the Dogwood festival today. It will be very nice!! This will be the first time for us taking our son to an arts and crafts festival. I know...shame on us :(

Crochet Velvet Earrings in Moss Green

2009-04-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite color: MOSS GREEN!! Elegantness in its own right. If there is such a thing as 'Urbanly Classy'...I think this is it!! Be careful viewing this picture guys as it has a calming effect, like the sea...even though they are green. :)

Back at home

2009-04-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

We're back from Savannah. We had so much fun...it was sad to leave. It was a very pleasant trip...very inspiring. A very encouraging trip for an artist trying to find her way, her place in the universe such as me :)

Velvet Beads earrings

2009-04-03T08:50:00.001-07:00

This is so much fun!! Not your traditional earrings most def.

Lime green and shell necklace and earrings

2009-04-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

I am soooo thrill to have finished this set!! These look much better than what I imagined it be!! Artisan lime green glass beads, silver findings and chain and freshwater pearls. I will list them in my store soon: http://www.marialuna.etsy.com

Flikr

2009-03-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Finally done loading everything in my flickr page: flickr.com/photos/mariaallen

Spring Birds Collage Card

2009-03-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this little birds. They will sure lifts anybody's spirit up...they sure did mine. Find them at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22783348

2009-03-29T16:34:00.001-07:00

Chinese Beads

2009-03-20T09:31:00.000-07:00

My newest addition...how fun and cheerful!!

Very exotic, perfect for a Spring outing!! I am having a hard time resisting wearing this pair out...so somebody please get them off my hand!!