Lacy Afghan - 2009 Christmas Special

JMark Afghans, etc. is offering - for a limited time - our favorite Lacy Afghan at amazing prices!

This offer is available only to readers of "Random Musings of a Curious Mind" who order before December 10th.

(To ensure that your order is completed in plenty of time for Christmas, we are offering only 3 sizes and a limited number of yarn colors.)

Ordering couldn't be easier! Simply pick a size, a yarn color, and click {Buy}. For your convenience, we offer PayPal or Google Checkout to complete your order. (No personal information is required, until you place your order through our secure options.)

As always, if you have any questions or problems - Contact Jules - for more information.

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Update Your Office

It's been five months, give or take, since we moved into the new apartment. With something akin to desperation, we managed to arrange and organize our piles of stuff and mounds of furniture into a functional system. There would be no more stubbed toes and banged shins. Then, Frankie moved back in.

Don't get me wrong - it is absolutely wonderful having him home. But, our interior design plan didn't leave a lot of room for more stuff. (It takes an act of Congress to get into my dresser these days.) The monster of a computer desk, which we have banged into and stumbled over for years, (the one that I keep threatening to replace) is eating up space that we could really use for other things. Like it or not, I really think it's time to rethink our office furniture set-up.

Frankly, we would do better with a much (much) smaller desk and a 4-drawer filing cabinet. Maybe, a desk with a 2-drawer filing cabinet on each side. Then, we could shift everything else we own around and make room in my closet! Hey, I like that idea!

Just one - not so small - problem: Everything I like is bigger that what we have now! Oh, boy. Back to the drawing board - oooh, I need one of those, too!

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Order Now to Guarantee Christmas Delivery

Just a quick reminder that JMark Afghans, etc. doesn't crochet your afghan - or hat, scarf, or shawl - until you order it.

For some of the larger, more involved designs, that means that it takes at least a couple of weeks to finish your order.

If you've been thinking of a special, one-of-a-kind gift for your loved ones - please be sure to order now.

All of our items ship second-day, but - the closer we get to Christmas Day - even the USPS can't guarantee timely delivery.

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

2010 Arizona Scenery Calendars

Can you believe it?! 2009 is almost over! And, frankly, I am looking forward to the new year!



In honor of what simply has to be a better year, JMark Afghans, etc. is offering 2 new calendar designs for 2010.


Jules pulled out some of her favorite Arizona and Grand Canyon pictures, just for these calendars. Each month is a trip to another beautiful scene from the Grand Canyon State. These images are only available on JMark Afghans, etc. products at Zazzle. No other place has them!


So, don't wait until the last minute! Beat the rush and get yours today! And spend 2010 in Arizona!


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Grand Canyon Posters

Don't forget to stop by and check out my latest Zazzle creation - oooh I love that word - a set of posters that feature some of my favorite Grand Canyon Pictures. I chose a dark green border to accent, but not overwhelm the view. The view is ... everything!

With a collection of five coordinated, but unique images, they make a wonderful addition to any room - as a set, in smaller groupings, or just one, perfectly placed image.

The first two I created, titled "Grand Canyon Poster 001" and "Grand Canyon Poster 002" (brilliant, aren't I?) are slightly different views of the same location. By changing the camera angle and position, just a bit, the images appear to come from different locations. Yet, they complement each other beautifully.

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Grand Canyon Posters from JMark Afghans

I love creating! Whether it's a new afghan design (and there are a few of those in the works) or mugs, aprons, and posters on Zazzle. Taking a blank canvas, as it were, and watching something new emerge is amazing to me.

My latest creation - oooh I love that word - is a set of posters, featuring some of my favorite Grand Canyon Pictures. I chose a dark green border to accent, but not overwhelm the view. The view is ... everything!

With a collection of five coordinated, but unique images, they make a wonderful addition to any room - as a set, in smaller groupings, or just one, perfectly placed image.

The first two I created, titled "Grand Canyon Poster 001" and "Grand Canyon Poster 002" (brilliant, aren't I?) are slightly different views of the same location. By changing the camera angle and position, just a bit, the images appear to come from different locations. Yet, they complement each other beautifully.

Please wander by to see the rest. Choose your favorite poster - or choose them all. They were designed to need no frame, although custom framing is available.

Or start with our new collection of Grand Canyon products. (Not all of them are new, but the collection is finally pulled together for easy browsing.) I'm going to be adding to my Grand Canyon mugs, with a collection that includes different images and unique quotes.

Don't miss it!

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

New Zazzle Products from JMark Afghans, etc.

I had a couple of options today - do the dishes, or play on Zazzle. As you can see, I chose to create some new products on Zazzle. It's much more fun than washing dishes. (The mousepad background is an airbrush design, with random colors and graphic 'mice' to complete the look.)



This shoe started with the same abstract color design as the new mousepad. In darker colors, it will coordinate with virtually any casual outfit and resist showing dirt or stains. Something I love, because I am really bad about dust, dirt, and not washing my shoes.



Frankly, I love slip-on shoes. I keep a pair by the front door for quick trips to check the mail or pick up a soda at the store. Comfortable and easy-on, they are the best.

These shoes, in lighter colors, should work with just about any spring or summer look - whether you're headed to the corner store, an impromptu picnic, or the afternoon at your favorite museum.

Keep watching! Among other things, I plan to start collecting pictures for a 2010 calendar.

Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Baby Shower Goodies

There are few parties that are more fun for the givers and the guest than a baby shower. Nothing is as fun as oohing and aahing over cute little baby stuff. I just love booties and hats and sweaters and teeny, tiny outfits. Even itsy, bitsy diapers are adorable. (When you're not the one changing them.)

Putting together a baby shower, on the other hand, isn't always quite as much fun. There are so many things to remember and so many choices available. Take the baby shower favors, for example. Finding just the right treat for your guests can be daunting. And, if you aren't careful, expensive.

Thanks to "Party Pail," things couldn't be simpler. There are dozens and dozens of items for any style or budget. Start with a theme and go from there. Or pick your favorites and create a unique theme that reflects the taste and interests of the mother-to-be. I, personally, fell in love with the baby bottle candles and the silver cross bookmarks.

Now, all I need is a shower to plan!


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

TV Stands

We have been moving furniture around, trying to make room for all of the things that Frankie brought with him. So far, so good; except for the TV and VCR in the bedroom. Having the television on the VCR just isn't a good idea.

There are a lot of options, when it comes to choosing TV stands. I really like the simple shelves that sit over the VCR, with the television on top. My favorites have a turntable set-up, so that the TV can be turned to the perfect viewing angle.

Now, I just need to find one that has a slight lip in front, so that the TV can be tipped down slightly. The dresser is just a tad too tall for optimum viewing. Oh, well.

A good reason to keep shopping.


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Keeping Warm the Easy Way

We are happy to report that we had a rainstorm last night. In Phoenix, that's definitely something to write about. There was even lightning and thunder! It was great ... It was chilly!

In fact, it's still damp and chilly today. But that's not a problem, not with all of the afghans around here.

Starting with <<-- this one on the bed.
Ooooh, so warm and comfy! All I have to do is snuggle in and I'm set.


Take your best shot, cold! I'm covered!


Since I love the smell of the air during and after a rainstorm, I tend to keep the windows open.

When my legs or shoulders get chilly, I don't have to close the windows; I just reach over and grab --> this cozy Afghan from the back of the chair. No muss, no fuss; no cold!

It's the perfect size - approx 48" x 60" - to cover me from chest to toes, or wrap cozily around my shoulders. It keeps my feet covered or leaves my hands free - either way, I'm warm and happy.

I can't stand socks on my feet, so an Afghan is just perfect.

Not that cold? Just a little chilly around your shoulders? JMark Afghans has you - literally - covered. Try one of our warm, light shawls.

Don't turn up the heat - Think Green! Think JMark Afghans!


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Wall Fountains

A couple of Christmases ago, I bought Mark a tabletop fountain. It seemed like a relaxing item and, had it worked, probably would have been nice. But what I really wanted - and still do - is one of the larger-size wall fountains.

I truly can't imagine anything more relaxing than sitting and watching the gentle waterfall; listening to that calming sound. It would make an amazing addition to a meditation practice. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get to that calm-place in your mind.

They come in a variety of styles and materials. (The marble or marble and copper ones are my favorites.) Simply mount it right on the wall and bring the peaceful sound of water breaking over rocks into your home.

Heaven knows, we have enough stress these days. It's nice to find something that can take some of that away. Even if it's only temporary.


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Great Cookie Jar Ideas

I get emails from the Folgers Wakin' Up Club periodically. It's my favorite coffee, though I'll drink anything strong and coffee-like. ;-)

If you buy Folgers, you know that the resealable lid is the best - easy to open and close, and great seal. Now, what more could you ask for in a cookie jar? Okay, something that doesn't say Folgers on the side? Problem solved!

Check out these great design ideas: Snowmen, Ornaments, Sledding, Holiday Icons, Banners, or Bows. Not happy with any of those? Download a blank template and create your own design!

I already use my Folgers canisters for flour, sugar, and corn meal. Now I can put great stuff on the outside, too. Cool, huh?


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Scrapbooking

Are you into scrapbooking?

It's something I keep threatening to start, in between everything else I've got going at any given moment. But, I'm lacking in inspiration - or I was.

Years ago, I had an idea for putting together all of the boys' stuff from school - menus from culinary trips, Valentine's Day cards, report cards, awards. You get the idea. But I didn't know where or how to start. I would imagine that's a common problem for beginners.

I'd also like to do something for Mark with all of the pictures from the hospital, before and after his transplant. We go through the pictures a lot, but it would be nice to have a book with notes and remembrances that he could pull out or show to friends.

Happily, I found a place with tons of supplies and, luckily for me, some great ideas. Who knows? I may get those books done one day, after all.


Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Bathroom Faucet

I cannot believe that I forgot to post this! We have a new bathroom faucet! And it's beautiful! (to paraphrase Stephen Sondheim)

The manager came through a few weeks ago - inspecting the condition of the apartment - and I mentioned that we were thinking of getting a new bathroom faucet; would that be a problem?

If I'd known what was about to ensue, I'd have kept my big mouth shut.

She ensured us that they could replace it, though it was a low priority. Honestly, it probably wouldn't have happened at all, except . . . we developed a leak under the kitchen sink and, while they were messing with that, it was a good time to replace the bathroom faucet . . . except it wasn't.

Apparently, the building and it's fixtures are older than Methuseleh. (We weren't surprised.) When maintenance attempted to turn the water off under the kitchen sink, they found other problems.

No big deal - they'd just replace the bathroom sink faucet and the shower handle, and come back in a couple of days - after they alerted the complex that the water would have to be turned off for an hour or so. Nope - not gonna happen!

Amazingly, the same plumbing problem with the kitchen sink existed under the bathroom sink -- and in the shower!

To make a long story shorter, all of the plumbing problems were resolved; we got our new bathroom faucet and shower handle! All is right with the . . .

Oh, crap! The kitchen sink is still leaking!

Maintenance (and Mark, in whom I have much more trust) are quite sure it's the kitchen faucet. An order is placed; in a few days the faucet will be replaced.

Ummmm. We're still waiting.

Perhaps - when our kitchen falls into the kitchen below us - they'll remember us. Who knows?



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Office Furniture

If you'll recall from my last post, I mentioned that we are short on floor space. What I didn't explain is that we are overrun by computer desk. This thing is huge!

A couple of nights ago, Mark crossed his legs and snapped the keyboard shelf out. He's got it fixed, but it tends to pop out rather easily now. So - you know me - I went shopping. (After all, we need to come up with a Christmas gift for the house, don't we?)

Personally, I love shopping for office furniture! There are so many great things in a wide range of styles and prices.

I'm thinking that a smallish desk, plus filing cabinet and wall-hung storage unit would give us the same size work area, but with a much smaller footprint. Just what we need. Not to mention, it would be wonderful to have a desk that the boys haven't torn apart.

Realistically . . . I'll probably just replace the keyboard tray. For now.



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Happy Halloween!

I love Halloween! As long as I can paint my face and not be me.

    

And get lots of candy!!



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Backyard Fire Pit

Well, since I'm house-hunting again, I might as well do a little decorating, too. The lighting hunt isn't going too well, so I think I'll do some outdoor shopping.

With an above-ground pool and 1.2 acres, the home near Wilmington just cries for some landscaping. And, of course, one of the first things I decided to look for were fire pits. You know - the citified version of a bonfire in the backyard?

It didn't take me long to find the perfect item, either. Almost 4' in diameter, accented with mosaic tile and wrought-iron legs - I can already imagine roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, after a day at the pool.

Eventually, I'll need to add a lawn and walkway (nobody loves a muddy yard), but not today!



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

The Hunt for Lighting

For those of you who have been following my lighting battle - all I can say is . . . I'm still looking.

You would think that I could find something I like, given all of the online stores. But there are so many things to take into consideration.

The torchieres have to be sturdy - as well as attractive - because Paka-the-speed-demon loves to do laps through the living room. Even though he's feline, he's not all that graceful and has been known to run into / bounce off of the furniture. (Heck, he's even fallen off the shelf in front of the window. But that's a whole 'nother post.)

Oddly enough, it's not the living room lamps that are giving me the most trouble. That distinction goes to the bathroom fixture, over the sink. Either I am incredibly picky or my taste is so horribly outdated that there hasn't been anything I'd like on the market in 25 years.

Either way . . . I'm still looking.



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Home Theater Sconces

We've been thinking about rearranging the furniture. My wireless card doesn't seem to work as well from my recliner as it does from the table next to the chair. Since I don't actually bend that way anymore, something's gotta give.

Since we're planning to move the TV to a different wall, it seemed like a good time to do a little redecorating. Among other things, I fell in love with some home theater sconces. These are absolutely great!

The styles include an "Admit One" movie ticket, "Take One" clapboard, stars, popcorn, movie camera, and comedy and tragedy masks. Or create a custom design just for your family's home theater. They're wall mounted and can even be connected to a dimmer.

I may have to get the restroom sconce to hang over my bathroom door. It's just too fun to ignore!



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Indoor Lighting

Yes, I'm shopping for lighting again. Specifically - bathroom lighting - because I'm tired of spending 20 minutes on my makeup and, when I walk out of the apartment, looking like a clown. Actually, a really scary clown.

I have had a tough time finding indoor lighting that I like, that I can afford, and that effectively lights up the area where it's installed. Today, I found a couple of really nice options.

The one I liked the best is shaped like an elongated capsule, and takes a bulb in each end. But the whole length is frosted glass, to spread the light for the full 18 1/2".

Maybe I can find what I want!



Be sure to stop by JMark Afghans
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules