PERSONAL TREASURES

Adversity Builds Boldness

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Thu, 28 May 2009 15:07:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:04:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:38:00 +0000

"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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:58:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 03:33:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:52:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 15:12:00 +0000

"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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:23:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:22:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:09:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:57:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 22:42:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:29:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 16:31:00 +0000

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

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:13:00 +0000

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.

Goal Setting 'Round-Up' on Blog Talk Radio

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:45:00 +0000

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

Last year I asked Janet Taylor (Ms. Totally Organized) that question and she, in turn, asked me to be her guest on her Blog Talk Radio show to talk about goal setting. That segment was the most listened to, and ‘favorited’ show on BTR. So Janet invited me back again, and again, over the course of the year to talk about how to set goals in every area of your life, how to get others to support you and how to stay on track. (You’ll find links to the interviews with some useful resources at the end of this article.)

Janet has invited me back on Monday, December 8th to round out the series with a “Goal Setting Round-Up.” She’ll update us on the progress she’s made on the goals she set last year and what has helped her the most. We'll also discuss the areas where people tend to get hung up in setting goals and making positive changes in their lives.

To make sure the interview is relevant to you, I would like to hear from you with your comments about where you get stuck when developing a vision, setting goals, keeping motivated, charting your progress, etc. Please feel free to write questions. Your notes will help me focus what I'll talk about and as time permits, we’ll answer specific questions during the show.

So, what would make next year the best year of your life?

Resolutions and Goals - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-goals-on-blog-talk-radio.html
Part 2 - S.M.A.R.T. Goals - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-and-goals-part-2.html
Support Your Success - on Blog Talk Radio - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/05/support-for-your-success.html

Etsy Without the Overwhelm

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:30:00 +0000

I'm celebrating! Today "Personal Treasures" jewelry is on the front page of a new site "Buried Treasuries" http://www.buriedtreasury.blogspot.com/.

It's a great, free way for Etsy folk to promote themselves, and a new venture from Etsy metal artist Tim Adams. You can see the work of over 500 artists and artisans, rate their work, leave comments and save images to social networking sites. I hope you'll visit and have a good time exploring. I did.

If you're reading this after November 6th, you'll find my work posted under "Jewelry Lovers 2". And here's a little plug for Tim Adams. He does a lot to educate artists and artisans about marketing and his own work is really strong. The picture above is just a sample. You can see lots more here: http://www.timothyadamdesigns.com/

I've Been Blogged - A Pretty Rock

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 13:07:00 +0000

The beautiful earrings above are by Yazmin, a web developer and jeweler who sells her limited edition creations on Etsy at http://aprettyrock.etsy.com.

Like many of the talented Etsy artists I've featured on this blog, Yasmin gives back, and 25% of the proceeds from the sale of these earrings will go to "Count Me In" (through the end of 2008).

"Count Me In" is a national not-for-profit provider of business resources and education for women entrepreneurs. Their mission is to promote economic independence and the growth of women-owned businesses. http://www.countmein.org/site/home.php

Now to the earrings. Aren't they elegant! These chandelier earrings are made with a handformed ball-studded arc. Accented with a cluster of Israeli-faceted peridot rondelles, labradorite faceted hearts and a solitary marquis briolette.

These earrings are made to order and take up to one week before they ship. But you can find many other lovely necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and hair pins on Yasmin's site that provide immediate gratification, anytime you want more sparkle.

Yasmin is a participant in "90 Features in 90 Days" challenge, where you write about a feature about a different Etsy artist or artisan every day. You can read her post about me at - http://www.aprettyrock.com/90-days-jewelry-that-flows.

Handmade Holiday Greetings that Give Back

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:39:00 +0000

This year consider creating a more meaningful holiday season by with cards and ornaments that give back to non-profit organizations.

The following artisans offer unique, handmade holiday cards and ornaments and they all contribute a percentage from their sales to benefit charity.

Kelly from "Retro Whale" sells handmade plantable cards, her cool mixed media paintings as well as prints at her Etsy shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5591712. Pictured above is her holiday plantable card, made from handmade, recycled paper and embedded with wildflower seeds - what a great idea! It's a card that keeps on giving, and it comes with planting instructions. The inside is blank so you can write your own personalized message. 10% of the proceeds from Kelly's series of plantable cards go to Ace of Hearts http://www.aceofheartsdogs.com/index.html
Heal the Bay http://www.healthebay.org/.

Betty of "Bird Haven", a boutique showcasing her sensitive nature-inspired cards and gifts will be donating 10% of her sales through 2008 to Siamese Cat Rescue Center in Virginia. http://va.siameserescue.org/

"Gold Bird Collage with Gold and Burgundy Ribbons" would be perfect for use on gifts or scrapbook pages. You get 3 tags tied with gold ribbon and 3 tags tied with a gold/burgundy ribbon. Betty is also happy to create coordinating gift bags. You can see these as well as 28 other listings of holiday items at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5678291

Linda at "Nun of a Kind" created “Janet’s Snowfolk”…to help raise money towards a cure for breast cancer. All proceeds from the sale of these ornaments are donated to “The Breast Cancer Society of Canada” (http://www.bcsc.ca/) in memory of a dear friend. "Janet was a wonderful, warm person whose battle with breast cancer, the cancer that was discovered too late to be able to treat successfully, took her life. She would be the first to remind women to not forget to take care of themselves, were she here to advise us." The ornaments, strung with invisible thread for hanging, are individually packaged in cellophane. You’ll find “Janet’s Snowfolk” as well as Linda's wide variety of humorous character figures (hint: look at the name of her shop) at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5254720.

"Stamp Out Cancer" is a shop started by sisters Andrea and Becca in memory of their grandfather who lost his battle with leukemia. 100% of the proceeds from their many, many, beautifully designed handmade cards go to http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/hm_lls.

"You are One of a Kind" cards in dark pink and green are hand stamped, and mounted with dimension are the words "you are one of a kind", with little flowers and ribbon on the sides. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5850461

"Allie Art for Children" is is the site where you'll find these great “Happy Holiday Peppers.” Five blank note cards feature original photography, making each card a very special note to send or a lovely, frameable work of art. 15% of each purchase goes to "Reach Out Children's Fund", a non-profit organization benefiting people in the remote areas of the Andes mountains of Peru http://www.reachoutchildrensfund.org.
Visit Allie's Art for Children at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5805037

You can read more about Allie at http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/10/handmade-childrens-gifts-that-benefit.html

Want to see more cards and ornaments that give back?

Check out http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/11/give-gifts-that-give-twice-holiday.html for "Big Picture" cards from Mavora that benefit World Vision and handmade ceramic ornaments from Leaping Lizards that benefit Living Water International.

Love the idea of gifts that give twice?

Look under "Gifts that Benefit Charity" on the right to find many, many more beautiful, inventive, humorous gifts, all handmade with love by the artists and artisans of Etsy.com.

Carnivale of the Dogs in Rittenhouse Square

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:05:00 +0000

One of the things I like about Philadelphia are the civic events, which often have a funky, home-made, improvisational flavor. Rules are minimal and anyone can participate.

There's the Flashlight Symphony, where anyone can show up with a flashlight (covered in red or green tissue) and stand on the steps of the Franklin Institute at night fall, waving it about and singing Christmas carols.

There's the Dracula Parade, sponsored by the Rosenbach Museum. Just come in costume (or not) and carry Dracula banners or oversized papier mache props illustrating the Dracula story, marching around the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood.

There's Super Sunday - but I can see I'm getting carried away - and getting ideas for future blog posts - so stay tuned.

A new event, started three years ago, is the "Carnivale of the Dogs," uber-sponsored by Commerce Bank.

There are many parts to this event, but the heart, what everyone comes for, are to see the dressed up dogs with their dressed up owners. There's judging and there are prizes - and here are some photos taken this year by my husband Bill.

I've Been Cyber-Tagged!

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 14:45:00 +0000

I've been tagged by Theresa J of “Magnificent Obsession” at http://theresaj.blogspot.com/. Playing tag is a social networking game and a fun way to explore new blogs. The rules of the game are simple:

* Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
* Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
* Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blog.
* Don't forget to let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

About me:

1. My hair started turning grey when I was 15.

2. My first solid food was a steamed clam.

3. I once went snow camping for 10 days on my own.

4. I read my favorite authors again, and again, and again.

5. Although my legal name is Phyllis, in my childhood I was always called Muffy. I started calling myself Phyllis when I started college. Then I married my husband who calls me Mufi, oh well.

6. I once co-wrote a pumpkin cook book. I have a picture of myself (taken by a local newspaper) wearing a plaid shirt in a pumpkin patch and holding a pumpkin pie.

7. I write a column for the Live Your Dreams project - http://www.liveyourdreamcampaign.org/ of the Soroptimist organization - http://www.soroptimist.org. If you like this blog you may be interested in the Soroptimists. They’re an international network of women that improves the lives of women and girls worldwide.

I am tagging:

That’s Headley - http://thatsheadley.blogspot.com/
Elektra Jewelry Design - http://elektrajewelry.blogspot.com/
Allie Art: Photography Benefiting Children - http://allieart4children.blogspot.com/
Artists Who Give Back - http://www.thisisitcreations.blogspot.com
Fancy Free Me - http://fancyfreeme.blogspot.com/
Kerin Rosee - http://kerinrose.blogspot.com/
Planet Janet - http://janetcatmull.blogspot.com/

Gifts for Animal Lovers that Benefit Charity

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:16:00 +0000

This article highlights some unique gifts for animal lovers, and their animals, that have a special bonus. They are all gifts that give twice.

The artists and artisans that have created these items give a portion of the proceeds from each sale to charities that benefit animals. When you choose gifts like these that benefit charity, you multiply the impact of your choice, creating positive ripples. Everyone benefits, from the person who receives your gift, to you and how you feel about yourself, and to the charity that receives vital support to carry out its mission.

The motto of “9 Lives Photography” is “"Every life should have nine cats," and cat photography is the feature at this shop. Depending on the item from 50 - 100% of the profits from each sale is donated to Felines Inc., a cat shelter in Chicago (http://www.felinesinc.org). Many of the photos are of Felines Inc. residents.

Heading this article is "I'm Too Cute" an 'aw' inducing photo of Stella, happily adopted from a cat shelter. This image can also be purchased as a note card set or print at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6162707
Metal worker Kerin Rose creates jewelry that is influenced by the spiritual symbols of many cultures and by patterns in nature. She’s had an eclectic career including being a puppet designer for the Muppets.

These charming dog tags are cast in Argentium (low-tarnish) sterling silver in molds carved from beeswax from bees raised by her sister. 100% of the profits from the sale of these tags goes to the Humane Society of the United States (http://www.hsus.org/). You will find interesting, evocative jewelry at this site, and also much information on Kerin’s process of creation. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5711364

J. M. McGuiness is an online shop where you can find ready to hang photo cards, sun catchers and pendants created by a husband and wife photographic team. The intriguing image heading this article is "Gentle Horse" a photograph, matted for framing, by Rob McGuinness. 100% of the profits from this photograph goes to 3 Bunnies Rabbit Rescue, located in East Hartford, CT – http://www.3bunnies.org. Other items benefit a variety of local animal-related charities.

You can learn more about the McGuiness’s and see their work at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5513972

Über Düper Creations is a collective store celebrating animals where you can find pottery water dishes and treat jars, cat nip toys and planter kits and bakery treats for animals. ÜdC will be donating 10% of all sales to Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary through the end of 2008! (www.peacefulprairiesanctuary.org)

The photo above is of "Beastie Biscuits" (People Tested - Animal Approved), a quarter pound of assorted organic biscuits in cute gift packaging. All organic and über tasty for beasts of all varieties: not only dogs and cats, but goats, pigs rats enjoy them! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5751642

Michele, the artist behind the MVegan5 shop on Etsy creates artwork and jewelry inspired by her love for animals and nature. An active spirit, she is the founder and co-leader of Etsy for Animals: Artists Helping Animals (EFA) http://efartistshelpinganimals.org, a team of artists who gather together to raise funds for animal-related charities.

An example of Michele’s work is her sweet photographic greeting card, “Three Friends.” You can buy a single card, a set of three or an 8 ½ by 11” print. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=25517

If you like to give gifts that give back you can find many more creative options on this blog. Check out the following articles: http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/11/give-gifts-that-give-twice-holiday.html, http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/10/gifts-that-benefit-africans.html, and http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2008/10/handmade-childrens-gifts-that-benefit.html, you'll be glad you did.

A Gem of a Cause - Sale to Benefit Liberian Orphans

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 20:09:00 +0000

Prasiolite Necklace - coming soon to Personal Treasures http://personaltreasures.etsy.com.

All of my personally handmade, original jewelry designs will be on sale through the end of the year at http://personaltreasures.etsy.com and http://mufi.etsy.com with discounts from 10% to 20%. You’ll find the details (as well as many new gift-priced pieces) posted at the shops.

100% of the profits from both stores will benefit my husband Bill Lawhorn's work with orphaned children in Liberia, West Africa.

We have already raised enough funds to buy 400 lbs. of rice and other staples for the “Charity Orphanage” in Robertsport, Liberia. The money will be hand delivered to the orphange around Thanksgiving by a Liberian expat who is visiting family for the holidays.

Labradorite Hoop Earrings - coming soon to Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com.

Many thanks to all of you who have bought jewelry already and who have sent notes of support and interest, as well as offers to be involved. The response has been very exciting and an affirmation that this work is important and that people are eager to help.

Gift Ideas for Breast Cancer Awareness

personaltreasures@gmail.com (Phyllis) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:40:00 +0000

As you might know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many organizations are offering pink merchandise that benefits breast cancer research. At Etsy, http://etsy.com, an online artist and artisan shopping showcase I found some wonderfully inventive items you won’t find anywhere else.

At “Itty Bitties for You” I found all kinds of wild and wonderful robots, pet rocks and other indefinable creatures including a series of “Booby Benefit Bots”, all crafted from polymer clay. "Pink the Robot" (pictured above) is a pendant you can wear to show your support for breast cancer awareness. Itty Bitties will donate 50% of the purchase of “Booby Benefit Bots” straight to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation to benefit breast cancer research. http://www.komen.org. You can visit “Itty Bitties for You” at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5055767.
“Candy Stick Lane” has Boutique Babies for the Cure. Let your little one sport this unique onesie loud and proud! $5 from the sale of each of these onesies will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. At Candy Stick Lane you’ll also find AIDS and Domestic Violence awareness onesies, along a plethora of adorable and creative children’s clothes. Here’s the link - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11692102.
“Dolly Oblong,” a shop full of handmade knit and felt soft toys, has clever and original Pink Rib Bunnies. All proceeds from these Bunnies are donated Pink Ribbon International to fund breast cancer research. Please check out http://www.pinkribbon.org for more information. You can find “Dolly Oblong” at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5902264.

Are you someone who feels inspired to give gifts that give twice? You’ll find many suggestions for beautiful and witty handmade items that benefit charity on this blog. Look to the right and under "Gifts That Benefit Charity" you’ll find links to more articles highlighting wonderful and unusual gift ideas.