Jean Stockdale...

I Am Accepted in the Beloved

I recently met Kristen through her blog La Dolce Vita. Kristen, a wife and a mom, is also a jewelry designer. I was immediate taken with her unique jewelry designs which are available on Etsy at Kristen's Custom Designs. She has a large selection of designs and also does custom work. I ordered this custom made necklace from her and wanted to share how much I love it!

I chose this based on the truth in Ephesians 1:6. Ephesians 1:3-14 is my favorite passage in the Bible. Paul teaches the ABC's of our conversion. In Christ we are: Adopted. Accepted. Blessed. Chosen. Oh, how I love Jesus! And I love wearing this truth around my neck. The Jews took bits of Scripture and wore them on their foreheads and arms to remind them to think God's thoughts and obey God's commands (See Deut. 6:8-9). In the same fashion, I wear this truth to remind me of my position in Jesus Christ. I am Accepted in the Beloved.

I asked Kristen to share a bit about her story so that we might know more about her and her blog. Here is my interview with her.

Name: Kristen Andrews of La Dolce Vita  

Your Family: I have been married to my husband for 11 years, we have a 3 year old son named Will and a 9 year old rescued Greyhound named Kane. How did you start blogging? I started blogging as a way to connect with family and friends and also started blogging about my business and it turned into something that I really enjoy, much like a on-line journal.   

You will never find me without...... My cell phone and Will we do everything together! Also hand sanitizer, sad but true. 

How did you get into making jewelry? I am now a WAHM. I own and operate Kristen’s Custom Creations  at www.klacustomcreations.etsy.com I create hand-stamped keepsake jewelry that conveys a message. My hobby of jewelry making became a business after I decided to take a break from corporate America to spend some time with Will. I feel truly blessed to have a creative outlet and to be able to be home with Will. 

If you had to wear a T-shirt with your favorite saying on it, what would it be? Live the life you love, Love the life you live!

Beloved readers, I cannot tell you how gorgeous my necklace is in real life! If you are interested in a unique piece of jewelry, please click here and go there to view all of Kristen's lovely designs or consider ordering a custom piece from her. I also ordered my initials and it looks similar to this.

One of the things I love about the blogosphere is the fascinating people God has crossed my path with. Kristen fits nicely into that group! Stop by Kristen's blog and leave her a note. Tell her Jean says, "Hey." 

Seriously Sweet Shopping Site

One of my sweet MOMS owns a darling shop in Arlington, Tn. called Classic Trends. It is located at 6347 Chester Street at the Depot Square in Arlington. The phone number s 867-2877. She brought me this pack of paper because Seriously is one of my favorite expressions. This multi-functionally single word can serve as a question, an exclamation, or a affirmation. Thanks, Amanda, I love this paper. It is really too cute to use but I am gonna force myself!

Friday I decided to take the afternoon off and drive out to Arlington for a visit. Amanda's shop is adorable-full to the rafters with fabulous home dec items, wonderful wreaths, precious picture frames, and a multitude of darling do-dads. Amanda has sought out some wonderful artisans to create some one-of-a-kind pieces. She carries a great selection of Christian pieces adorned with Scripture-many can be special ordered. Amanda has recently added some great tee shirts and some cute jewelry. Just look at this handmade piece:

 

The picture does not do this justice, but I had to have this. It is a handmade pendent with my initial on it on one side and leopard print on the other. It is a glass bubble with silver solder. Love it! We lunched at an adorable Tea Room across the RR tracks and had a glorious time of fellowship. I hope you will stop by Amanda's shop and see all the cute things she has that would look darling in your home. The shop is closed on Monday. Click here to see her website. And do yourself a favor and stop by for some shopping and tell Amanda that Jean said, "Hey!"