Friday, November 22, 2013

Gifts for your Wife, Mom, Daughter, Sister, and Aunt

If you are searching for quality, handmade, Christmas or Holiday gifts this season, we have many earrings, bracelets, and necklaces to offer.  Some popular options, that our customers have requested, are earrings and a matching necklace or bracelet set.  Do let us know how we may help you in your quest for an easy, shopping season.  We look forward to hearing from you! http://www.adornmentsbymilani.com



Tuesday, September 17, 2013

New Grandma and Mommy Bracelet by Adornments by Milani

We're excited to present this new style of bracelet to add to our line of Grandma Jewelry!  It's called the Eclectic Grandma Bracelet, and we hope that you like it. It is comprised of solid, sterling silver with freshwater pearls.Do let us know what you think of it, if you have the chance.  Our website is http://www.adornmentsbymilani.com and we look forward to hearing from you!

Saturday, June 29, 2013

Summer Earrings in Your Favorite Gemstone Colors

Freshly created: colorful, gemstone earrings to match all your summer outfits!  Choose some favorites for mother, mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, daughter, and of course, yourself.  What gal wouldn't look stunning wearing these lovelies! Available at http://www.adornmentsbymilani.com 




Saturday, February 11, 2012

Spring Around the Corner

Spring peers around the corner, beckoning spring weddings, spring birthdays, and spring babies. What does spring mean to you? Post your answer to our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/milanijewelry and you may win some spring earrings! =)

Friday, February 3, 2012

Happy TGIF!

Have an "eagle" type of weekend!  Thanks for stopping by!

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Dad Necklace Personalized with Children Names


We didn't mean to ignore all the dads out there! So, needless to say, we are thrilled to present you with the new addition to our line of personalized jewelry: the Daddy Necklace. Available in black or brown leather and able to include up to five children names, we know that any new dad or old dad would welcome this token of honor.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Valentine Gift Ideas for your Wife, Mom, Sister, Grandma,and Daughter

Not content with the mass-produced items at the mall? We are here to fulfill your desire to find unique, handmade, and personalized jewelry gifts for your loved ones! The deadline to order in time for Valentine's Day is February 4, so be sure to place your order asap! Please bear in mind that everything is handmade by yours truly so, it does take a few days for me to create your special gifts. Thanks so much, and we look forward to making dazzling gifts for the special women in your life!

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

A Gal Can't Live on Jewelry Alone


Spicy Black Eyed Peas: not the kind that you listen to;) My rendition of Paula Deen's Recipe. Thanks, Paula!

Friday, January 13, 2012

How many ways can you say Grandma?

There are a myriad of nicknames for that very special person in a child's life: grammy, nana, savta,grandmom, mimi, ma, mama, grammie, bubbe, munchen, etc. And now, we are excited to have a request for abuelita!

What is the special name that your children call their grandmother?

Friday, January 6, 2012

Happy New Year

Happy New Year, everyone! Well, we're a few days late, but nevertheless still fresh with our intentions of an even better year. What resolutions do you have, if any? Here is one that you may enjoy:

Dear God,
My prayer for 2012 is for
A big bank account & a thin body.
Please don't mix these up like you did last year.
AMEN!

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Shop til you Drop, in your Pajamas

I don't know about you, but while the rest of the world clamors around the boisterous crowds and congested parking lots on Black Friday, I will be in my pajamas, sipping herbal tea, and buying Christmas gifts online. I prefer to loiter over all my favorite shopping sites versus waking up at 3:00 am, only to find that there are already lines formed around the block of the establishment.


As such, we will be offering free shipping valid November 24 thru November 27, 2011. Shop at your leisure in your (holey) pjs, unbathed, and halitosis-breath:) We won't mind and neither will your computer. Stay tuned this week for your shopping code!



For those of you brave enough to face the commotion, here are some tips from Consumerreports.org

Shop the ads before Black Friday.
In the next week or two, many of the major retailers will release (or leak) their Black Friday specials, so check one of the comprehensive Black Friday-focused websites, such as bfads.net, blackfriday.info, theblackfriday.com, and Black Friday@gottadeal.com, to see if you’re getting the best deal. Some sites allow you to filter your searches by product categories, such as TVs. Consumer Reports also compiles lists of the best deals we see, so regularly check here at our blog.

Shop online first.
Before you brave the crowds at the stores, check to see if the retailer is offering the same—or even better—deals on its website. In past years, some of the biggest retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, have offered several online sales during Black Friday week that have included many of the same items offered as part of their in-store Black Friday events—and often combined with low- or no-cost shipping deals. And some retailers will offer online exclusives you couldn’t get even by walking into one of its retail locations.

Sign up for e-mail alerts.
Many retailers now use e-mail alerts to encourage store loyalty and more frequent shopping. Sign up for alerts that will let you know about upcoming promotions and to receive exclusive coupons or discounts not readily available to everyone. Shoppers can also learn if the products they want are stocked and available, or if an item is eligible for a "buy online, pick up at store" option that can save shipping charges.

Check out QR codes.
More retailers are now using those square black-and-white Quick Response (QR) codes—which act like supercharged bar codes—in newspaper and magazine ads, on packaging, and even on websites. QR codes can be read by a cell phone equipped with a QR reader app. Often QR codes will simply provide more information about the product, including links to see videos, but they may also contain coupon codes or special deals. And this Black Friday, some stores may be targeting the most recent shopping phenomenon—"mobile" shoppers using their cell phones to research and purchase items—with special deals and offers via QR codes.

Shop close to home.
If you find the best deals are in stores, you don’t necessarily need to drive all over town to get them. With electronics, for example, our research shows that in many cases the prices for highly promoted TV sets from major electronics brands, such as Panasonic, Samsung, and Sony, vary by only a few dollars from chain to chain. So you can safely shop at the closest retailer without feeling that you’re missing out on a bargain. (Also, see our advice below on getting a price guarantee.)

Check the stores' return policies.
You may be familiar with your local chain’s return and exchange policies, but make sure that they aren’t different for a Black Friday special. Sometimes Black Friday sales are “final sales,” meaning the item can’t be returned. Other items may have a shortened return or exchange policy, or one where you can only get a store credit rather than a refund. Also, make sure there isn’t a restocking fee on a returned item.

Check the warranty
If you’re loyal to a certain brand, you may feel you’re aware of its standard product warranty. But even major brands offer special “derivative” models during promotional periods like Black Friday, and they may alter the terms of their standard warranties for these sets. For example, the term may be much shorter, or the repair provisions could be different: If a problem arises, there may be no in-home service for larger sets, or you might have to pay shipping if the TV needs to be sent to a service center. If so, make sure you’re comfortable with the terms, and find out in advance what will happen if you need the set repaired. You may find that it will be your responsibility.

See if you can get a price-match guarantee.
Often stores say they’re suspending price-match guarantees during the Black Friday weekend, but you should ask for one anyway. After all, these are supposed to be “the lowest prices of the year!”

Check specially priced “bundles”.
Often retailers—and sometimes, manufacturers—will combine two or more items into a specially priced package they say will save you money. But you should check the individual prices of these items at both the store and its competitors to see if you’re really getting a great deal. Our research during the past week uncovered some real savings, but we also found bundles that barely saved any money at all. And make sure you really need everything that’s included in the bundle. For example, we found several deals that combined an HDTV with a low-cost sound system that included a standard DVD player. With prices for Blu-ray players—and Blu-ray HTIBs— falling rapidly, this may not be as great a deal as it first seemed.

Buy the item you really want.
Items designated as "doorbusters" draw us in because of their low prices, but they may not be the best products for your needs. In electronics, for example, this is especially true of bigger-ticket items such as TVs, which you'll be living with for a number of years. Doorbuster items, particularly derivative models created specially for the event, usually have lower specs and lack features found on a manufacturer’s standard lines. While this may be fine for a second or third set, you may want better performance or more features for your main TV. Because so many shoppers are looking for the cheapest TVs, which provide little margin for the retailer, the sales staff may be more willing to cut deals on better models, where they have more wiggle room on pricing. And you may find that you’ll actually get a better deal by buying a slightly more expensive set that ultimately proves more satisfying for you and your family.

But avoid the old bait-and-switch trick.
That said, if you’re really buying only on price, stick to your guns and don’t get pushed toward a more expensive model. Retailers will sometimes advertise a great deal on a certain TV but then denigrate it once you’re in the store to buy it, hoping they can push you to a more profitable model.

Don't buy pricey accessories.
Even if you've purchased the right TV at the best price of the year, it's easy to be talked into buying pricey accessories, such as costly HDMI cables, that will negate any savings. Last year I helped a friend buy a TV during the Black Friday weekend, and it took three specific requests to get the salesman to show her moderately priced cables, which were hidden away out of sight. Even better, buy the cables ahead of time from a website such as monoprice.com or bluejeanscable.com and avoid the temptation entirely.

We hope you have a fun, satisfying shopping experience this Black Friday weekend. And if you have any great money-saving tips of your own, we'd love to hear from you. Happy shopping!

—James K. Willcox

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Summer Wedding Jewelry

It's that time of the year when weddings are abundant and the search for everything matching is abound.  If you are searching for the most delightful accompaniment to your wedding attire: earrings, necklace, bracelet or a matching set, we would be thrilled to fill your needs.    We aim to make you the most beautifully accessorized mother of the bride or groom:)

Monday, January 24, 2011

Saturday, November 27, 2010

How to Buy Your Wife Jewelry

Dear Husbands,
Contrary to what you might think, your wife (most likely) would not care for a printer, toaster, or exercise DVDs for Christmas. If you would like to give something that will truly be remembered, and deemed as a thoughtful gift, buy your wife a token of your appreciation and love – jewelry. Your significant other is the person who brings the utmost joy in your life, the person who tolerates your snoring, and the person who picks up your unmentionables off the floor. Demonstrate your gratitude with something that will delight her eyes!

Here are some tips to help you begin your search:

1. Take a look at your wife’s jewelry to get an idea of her style. Does she prefer small/dainty or large/chunky jewelry? Does she wear silver, gold or both?

2. What is her favorite color? What color(s) does she wear most often? What is her birthstone?

3. Determine your budget. Remember how much you spend on tools;)

4. If you are planning to buy a bracelet, measure her wrist while she is sleeping.

5. If you planning to buy earrings, make sure her ears are pierced.

6. Choose a piece that is similar to her current jewelry or another option is to purchase personalized custom jewelry that has special meaning, e.g., jewelry with names of children or grandchildren, anniversary dates, etc.

7. Inquire about exchange and return policies, just in case your perfect gift is not so perfect in your wife’s eyes.

8. Plan your jewelry buying in advance, in order to avoid added stress and impulse buying.

9. Try not to choose something that look like fishing lures from your tackle box.

10. Don’t ask your mother for advice:)

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

English from Around the World

Airline ticket office, Copenhagen :
WE TAKE YOUR BAGS AND SEND THEM IN
ALL DIRECTIONS.

In a Bangkok temple :
IT IS FORBIDDEN TO ENTER A WOMAN, EVEN A
FOREIGNER, IF DRESSED AS A MAN.

Cocktail Lounge , Norway :
LADIES ARE REQUESTED NOT TO HAVE CHILDREN IN
THE BAR.

Doctors office, Rome :
SPECIALIST IN WOMEN AND OTHER
DISEASES.

Dry cleaners, Bangkok :
DROP YOUR TROUSERS HERE FOR THE BEST
RESULTS.

In a Nairobi restaurant :
CUSTOMERS WHO FIND OUR WAITRESSES RUDE
OUGHT TO SEE THE MANAGER.

On the main road to Mombassa, leaving Nairobi :
TAKE NOTICE: WHEN
THIS SIGN IS UNDER WATER, THIS ROAD IS
IMPASSABLE.

On a poster at Kencom :
ARE YOU AN ADULT THAT CANNOT READ? IF SO
WE CAN HELP.

In a City restaurant :
OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AND
WEEKENDS.

In a cemetery :
PERSONS ARE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING FLOWERS FROM
ANY BUT THEIR OWN GRAVES.

Tokyo hotel's rules and regulations :
GUESTS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO
SMOKE OR DO OTHER DISGUSTING BEHAVIOURS IN
BED.

On the menu of a Swiss restaurant :
OUR WINES LEAVE YOU NOTHING TO
HOPE FOR.

In a Tokyo bar :
SPECIAL COCKTAILS FOR THE LADIES WITH
NUTS.

Hotel, Yugoslavia :
THE FLATTENING OF UNDERWEAR WITH PLEASURE IS THE
JOB OF THE CHAMBERMAID.

Hotel, Japan :
YOU ARE INVITED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE
CHAMBERMAID.

In the lobby of a Moscow hotel across from a Russian Orthodox
monastery :
YOU ARE WELCOME TO VISIT THE CEMETERY WHERE FAMOUS
RUSSIAN AND SOVIET COMPOSERS, ARTISTS AND WRITERS ARE BURIED
DAILY EXCEPT THURSDAY.

Advertisement for donkey rides, Thailand :
WOULD YOU LIKE TO RIDE ON YOUR OWN ASS?

A laundry in Rome :
LADIES, LEAVE YOUR CLOTHES HERE AND SPEND THE
AFTERNOON HAVING A GOOD TIME.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Cute Mother-in-Law Joke



The newlywed wife Monica said to her husband when he returned from work, "I have great news for you. Pretty soon we're going to be three in this house instead of two."

Nick, the husband, started glowing with happiness and kissing Monica purred, "Oh darling, I'm the happiest man in the world."

Monica smiled and added, "I'm glad that you feel that way, Nick, because tomorrow morning my mother moves in with us."

LOL!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Pampering Yourself is Not Selfish

I love this article by the Flylady about this month's healthy habit. Take care of yourself, do what makes you feel your best, and wear those jewels, ladies. Let those sparkling faces (and sinks) shine!!

(If you don't know who she is and you are a disorganized cluttered mess, like me, you might enjoy her coaching sessions. There is no charge and her daily emails make cleaning & organizing a lot less painful!)

Dear Friends,

The Habit for this month is Pampering. The reason that we have you
work on a habit each month is to help teach you how to make something
a part of your everyday routine. Pampering is really really important
to your over all health and well being. Learning to take time out for
yourself is a huge part of FLYing. If you don't take care of you who will?

FlyLady and I can't stress enough the taking care of YOU! This begins
with getting dressed to shoes, getting enough sleep, eating well and
blessing your heart by moving each day. The Pampering Habit is
building on to those already established habits to take better care
of you. It may feel silly or extravagant to pamper yourself. Some of
you may even feel as though you don't deserve it. Some of you may feel
that it is too expensive to pamper yourself - I promise you it is not.

We are going to spend this whole month sharing different ideas and
ways to learn how to build pampering into your routine. Pampering is
not selfish, it is all a part of Finally Loving Yourself. Investing
time in who you are and the way you feel is not a waste of time,
it is an investment that will keep paying you back over and over.
Feeling good about yourself changes your mental outlook and attitude.

When you roll out of bed, throw on whatever is handy, somewhat brush
your hair, make an attempt at slapping on some lipstick and throwing
on whatever shoes you see, is not the way to start your day off
feeling as though you can conquer the world. When you lay out your
clothes the night before, have an established morning routine for
fixing your hair and make up and then pamper yourself by putting on a
favorite piece of jewelry that doesn't get worn often, a spritz of
perfume that you love, you will feel totally different when you
walk out of the bathroom stepping into a new day.

In reality not taking care of yourself is actually selfish. You are
robbing yourself of feeling good about who you are and you are robbing
your families of you being the happy and content person that you can
be. It takes BabySteps to teach you to Love Yourself but that is okay
we are striving for progress not perfection.

Pay attention to all the Pampering ideas and tips that are coming your
way and please participate. You will love how you feel about yourself!

Love,
Kelly

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

There's a new kid on the block

...and we are so happy to be her new family. Thanks to my brother-in-law and his girlfriend to bringing her into our home. She cleans up after spilled food & drinks, runs the kids haggard, and likes to annoy my brother; what else could I ask for in a dog=) Stay tuned for more puppy pics.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Men and Shopping

Hope you're in the mood for a few chuckles.


BANNED FROM WAL-MART...

This is why women should not take men shopping against their will.

After I retired, my wife insisted that I accompany her on her trips to Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, like most men, I found shopping boring and preferred to get in a nd get out. Equally unfortunately, my wife is like most women - she loved to browse.

Yesterday my dear wife received the following letter from the local Wal-Mart:

Dear Mrs. Gilbert
Over the past six months, your husband has been causing quite a commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and have been forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against Mr. Gilbert are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras .

1. June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's carts when they weren't looking.

2. July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.

3. July 7: Made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the women's restroom.

4 July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice, 'Code 3 in Housewares... Get on it right away.'

5.. August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&M's on layaway.

6. August 14: Moved a 'CAUTION - WET FLOOR' sign to a carpeted area.

7.. August 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told other shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets from the bedding department.

8. August 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him he began crying and screamed, 'Why can't you people just leave me alone?'

9. September 4: Looked right into the security camera and used it as a mirror while he picked his nose.

10. September 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked the clerk where the antidepressants were.

11. October 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly humming the ' Mission Impossible' theme.

12. October 6: In the auto department, he practiced his 'Madonna look' by using different sizes of funnels.

13. October 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed through yelled, 'PICK ME! PICK ME!'

14. October 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he assumed a fetal position and screamed, 'OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!'
And last, but not least...

15. October 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile, then yelled very loudly, 'Hey! There's no toilet paper in here!'
Sincerely,
Wal-Mart

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Baby Boomer Humor

(Ok, it's not really that humorous:)

I thought you would want to know about this e-mail virus. Even the most advanced programs from Norton or McAfee cannot take care of this one. It appears to affect those who were born prior to 1966.

5. Causes you to forget to attach the attachment. well darn!

6. Causes you to hit "SEND" before you've finished. oh no - not again!

7. Causes you to hit "DELETE" instead of "SEND." and I just hate that!

8. Causes you to hit "SEND" when you should "DELETE." Oh No!

IT IS CALLED THE "C-NILE VIRUS."

Hmmm......Have I already sent this to you?
2. Causes you to send a blank e-mail! that too!

3. Causes you to send e-mail to the wrong person. yep!

4. Causes you to send it back to the person who sent it to you. DUH!

Symptoms:

1. Causes you to send the same e-mail twice. done that!

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Church Chuckle

Some humorous little quips from times past. Which one is your favorite? Hope you enjoy.

They're Back! Those wonderful Church Bulletins! Thank God for church ladies with typewriters. These sentences (with all the BLOOPERS) actually appeared in church
bulletins or were announced in church services:
--------------------------
>>> The Fasting & Prayer
>>> Conference includes meals.
>>> --------------------------
>>> The sermon this morning:
>>> 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight:
>>> 'Searching for Jesus.'
>>> --------------------------
>>> Ladies, don't forget
>>> the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those
>>> things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your
>>> husbands.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Remember in prayer the many
>>> who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard
>>> to love. Say 'Hell' to someone who doesn't care
>>> much about you.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Don't let worry kill
>>> you off - let the Church help.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Miss Charlene Mason sang
>>> 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious
>>> pleasure to the congregation.
>>> --------------------------
>>> For those of you who have
>>> children and don't know it, we have a nursery
>>> downstairs.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Next Thursday there will be
>>> tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Irving Benson and Jessie
>>> Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a
>>> friendship that began in their school days.
>>> --------------------------
>>> A bean supper will be held
>>> on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.
>>> --------------------------
>>> At the evening service
>>> tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?'
>>> Come early and listen to our choir practice .
>>> --------------------------
>>> Eight new choir robes are
>>> currently needed due to the addition of several new members
>>> and to the deterioration of some older ones.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Scouts are saving aluminum
>>> cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will
>>> be used to cripple children.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Please place your donation
>>> in the envelope along with the deceased person you want
>>> remembered..
>>> --------------------------
>>> The church will host an
>>> evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious
>>> hostility.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Potluck supper Sunday at
>>> 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
>>> --------------------------
>>> The ladies of the Church
>>> have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in
>>> the basement on Friday afternoon.
>>> --------------------------
>>> This evening at 7 PM there
>>> will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church.
>>> Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Ladies Bible Study will be
>>> held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to
>>> lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B. S. Is done.
>>> --------------------------
>>> The pastor would appreciate
>>> it if the ladies of the Congregation would lend him their
>>> electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Low Self Esteem Support
>>> Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.
>>> - -------------------------
>>>
>>> The eighth-graders will be
>>> presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement
>>> Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this
>>> tragedy.
>>> --------------------------
>>> Weight Watchers will meet
>>> at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large
>>> double door at the side entrance.
>>> --------------------------
>>> The Associate Minister
>>> unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday:
>>> 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

How would you feel?


It's daunting how your life can change within a matter of minutes. You can be relaxing at home, having a meal with your family, and living in the moment. Relishing in contentment, you are still smiling as you get up to answer the knock on your front door. That smile immediately diminishes upon seeing who is at your doorstep. It is the sheriffs. They are there to tell you that they are evicting you and your family from your home.

What would you do? Where would you go? Would you have family or friends to help you? Those who are not fortunate enough to have someone to turn to, end up homeless.

Andy Bales, CEO of the Los Angeles Union Rescue Mission writes, "Today, as our economy worsens, more and more professional and middle-class people are losing their jobs and homes — and joining LA's homeless population. Most are homeless for the first time and many are turning to the Union Rescue Mission for help. They are the new face of homelessness in L.A." In other words, homelessness is no longer privy to the poor and destitute.

I received this email from the Union Rescue Mission and am forwarding it to you in the hopes that you can open up your heart to help someone who is not as fortunate. Thank you so much for your compassion and God Bless!!

Dear Adornments,

Imagine how hopeless you would feel, knowing you did everything in your power to care for your family, yet ended up destitute on the streets of Skid Row!

Because so many people lost their homes and savings in the recent economic downturn, there is three times the number of families coming to us for help than just one year ago.

Families like these need the renewing power of EASTER -- NOW MORE THAN EVER.

During the Easter season, I need partners like you to help provide hot meals, dignity and a future for individuals and families who come to us hungry, discouraged and desperate. People like Victoria . . .

Recently, Victoria and her husband, with their five beautiful children came to us -- abruptly evicted from the home they were renting because the landlord had defaulted on the mortgage payment.

The meals you provide can be the first step to transforming life for families like hers who are now facing serious hardship.

Because a portion of our food is discounted or donated, each gift of $22.08 will provide meals for 12 people. $27.60 will feed 15 people and your gift of $40.48 will help provide 22 Easter season meals.

As a partner with Union Rescue Mission, your gift today will help bring EASTER L.A. -- A SEASON OF MIRACLES to Skid Row's most desperate people.

In deepest gratitude for all you do,
Andy Bales
Rev. Andy Bales, CEO

P.S. Thank you for any amount you can send now or by April 4 at the latest. Your gift to provide Easter season meals will help families who are facing some of the worst blows life has to offer.
Provide Easter meals and hope for hungry families
Help provide Easter meals and hope for hungry families.

545 S. San Pedro Street • Los Angeles CA 90013 • 213-347-6300 • www.urm.org

Mailing Address:
Union Rescue Mission
545 S. San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
US

Contact Name: webmaster@urm.org
Telephone Number: (213) 347-6300

Friday, December 26, 2008

Merry Christmas, Mele Kalikimaka, Maligayang Pasko

Ooops, guess we're a little late posting this but we would like to wish you a wonderful Christmas and New Years. God bless you and your loved ones.


Numbah One day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
One mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Two day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Tree day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Foah day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Five day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Five beeg fat peeg... foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Six day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Six hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg,foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Seven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Seven shrimp a-swimmin', six hula lesson,five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eight day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', six hula lesson,five beeg fat peeg (that make TWENNY!), foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Nine day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin',six hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah let, tree dry squid, two coconut, an'one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Ten day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Ten can of beer, nine pound of poi, eight ukuklele, seven shrimp a-swimmin'six hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg,foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut,An' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Eleven day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Eleven missionary, ten can of beer, nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', six hula lesson, five beeg fat peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an'one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Numbah Twelve day of Christmas, my tutu give to me
Twelve TELEVISION, eleven missionary, ten can of beer,Nine pound of poi, eight ukulele, seven shrimp a-swimmin', six hula lesson, forty steenkin' peeg, foah flowah lei, tree dry squid, two coconut, an' one mynah bird in one papaya tree.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Last Minute Handmade / Handcrafted Christmas Gifts

Having fun at the malls yet? Lest you think that it is too late to order gifts online, I'm here to tell you that it is not. We use USPS Express shipping for those last minute gifts. It's a mere $16.00 and it can save you a trip to that car-infested mall that you've been dreading. Besides, shopping in your pajamas is a lot more fun & comfortable than shopping with crowds full of frantic people:)

http://www.adornmentsbymilani.com
http://www.adornmentsbymilani.etsy.com

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Popular Christmas Gifts Hanukkah Gifts Holiday Gifts for Grandma and Moms




If you are searching for something that is personalized, sentimental, and lovely to buy your mom, mother-in-law, and grandma, our Mommy and Grandma Necklace are the perfect solution. Not only are they aesthetically appealing (as we've been told), they evoke a deeper meaning for the recipient. The necklaces are not just jewelry, but they are keepsakes about some of the most important people in our lives - children and grandchildren. We love to hear about and witness the response when moms and grandmas receive their special, custom created keepsake jewelry. It gives us great pleasure in knowing that our little creations can give such joy to someone.

As always, thank you so much for visiting our blog and for buying our jewelry. We are very grateful for our wonderful customers.


Grandma Necklace


Mommy Necklace

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Food for Thought



Despite the picture of Apple Latkes recently made for my familia, I am not here to woo you with food. Instead, I am hoping to appeal to your other "senses" - your sense of compassion, kindness, and generosity. There are so many people that are depending on your generosity this Christmas. The homeless mother that looks forward to a meal to feed her children and safe place to stay for the night. The father that recently lost his job and needs just a little help to be able to support his family. The child that is abandoned and has no where else to turn.

Granted it always seems that there is barely enough to fend for our own family. But then I am reminded that compared to 3rd world/developing countries, my family has more than enough. We have a car to drive, a home to live in, food to eat, and a reliable income. We have the basic necessities that others only dream of having.

There are so many non-profit organizations who would be so grateful for your act of kindness. Listed below are a few of ours. Thank you for reading our blog and thank you for the desire to help those not as fortunate.

The Sheepfold

Union Rescue Mission
Focus on the Family
American Center for Law & Justice

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving from Adornments by Milani

We are so grateful for all the things that we have been blessed with throughout the year: our family, friends, and all our wonderful customers. Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to provide you with gifts and jewelry.


For the month of November and December we will be increasing our charitable donations from all jewelry sales from 10% to 15%. Thank you for your continued patronage and we hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with all your loved ones.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

I've been neglectful


Sorry, haven't written much lately, not that I'm much of a writer to begin with, but I'm having serious writer's block. The less I write, the easier it is to let days lapse until I feel bad and force myself to write something. It's kind of like working out.

The first couple of weeks, your motivation level is at a high peak. Then, something happens or changes occur that may prevent you from exercise i.e, getting sick, family schedule, laziness, etc., so your motivation level decreases and then you stop working out as much. Until, eventually, you stop working out completely and then feel guilty about it and make another New Year's resolution to start working out again.

Well, hopefully I won't let it go that far (the blog that is), which is more than I can say for the working out part. The motivation level there is completely stagnant:) Hope your motivation level is much higher than mine!!! Have a great Tuesday!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Non-Partisan Political Humor

In light of voting day, here's a little something to make you chuckle. (Thank you MountainAsh).

While walking down the street one day a politician is tragically hit by a truck and dies.

His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.

'Welcome to heaven,' says St. Peter. 'Before you settle in, it seems there
is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so
we're not sure what to do with you.'

'No problem, just let me in,' says the politician.

'Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is have
you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where
to spend eternity.'

'Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,' says the politician.

'I'm sorry, but we have our rules.'

And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down,
down, down to hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a
green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of
it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him.

Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake
his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at
the expense of the people.

They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne.

Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy and who has a
good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that
before he realizes it, it is time to go.

Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises ..

The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St. Peter
is waiting for him.

'Now it's time to visit heaven.'

So, 24 hours pass with the politician joining a group of contented souls
moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good
time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.

'Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.'

The politician reflects for a minute, then answers: 'Well, I would never have
said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.'

So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.

Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren
land covered with waste and garbage.

He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting
it in black bags as more trash falls from above...

The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder. 'I
don't understand,' stammers the senator. 'Yesterday I was here and
there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar,
drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a
wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?'

The devil looks at him, smiles and says.......

Yesterday we were campaigning. Today you voted.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Whew - Finally Fixed


If you tried to access our site within the last two weeks, you may have noticed that pesky little Internet Explorer problem, which would not open our blog. Apparently, IE does not like all the Pacman, art, foodblog, etc. gadgets on the sidebar, so, some fall cleaning was done to extrude/expel/exterminate the problem (sorry, I'm half asleep and can't decide which adjective to use right now). Hopefully, the problem has been fixed and we can get on with our merry blogging. Have a great TGIF everyone. P.S. Thanks, again, to Cindy for letting us know about the problem. I'd be blogging to the wind, if you hadn't told me know. Well, I probably already am;)

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Back from Hawai'i - Aloha e kakou
























...and all my brother brought back were these pictures...plus a few more things. As much as I like to complain about him, he's not too bad of an uncle. As a brother, well, that's another story;) Malama pono kakou. A hui hou.

Friday, October 3, 2008

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Cyber Chain Letter - Do You Really Want to Know Seven Things About Me?





Cindy, a loyal blog follower (our only loyal blog follower) and fellow jewelry artisan, recently left us a comment, "I'm tagging you and what you need to do is list 7 things about yourself and then go tag 7 other people!! Have fun". Thanks, Cindy;) Since cyber chain mail is a lot less effort than actual tangent chain letters, and since it didn't add the customary, "something very bad will happen if you don't forward this to 100 people", and since she is kind enough to read and comment on my otherwise commentless blog, I am happy to oblige.

Anyways, here it goes:

1. I like to eat ice cream when everyone else is sleeping - that way I can take all the time I want to savor each bite (and don't have to feed anyone else).

2. I look forward to our household purchase of Girl Scout Cookies every year. (Samoas and Do-si Dos, baby)!

3. I have a spare tire that won't seem to go away. (I refuse to give up ice cream and girl scout cookies).

4. My favorite topic other than jewelry is FOOD (in case you haven't noticed).

5. I love to cook for my family (food thing again).

6. I have one husband, three kids, and one dog (the ones who consume the food).

7. I wish that I had a bigger house to invite family and friends so I could cook for & feed them more food.


Hope you all have a great hump day!!!!

Monday, September 29, 2008

The Other Bedtime Prayer

I came across this and had to share it with you (thanks Jerilynne). Happy Monday Everyone!!

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my shape to keep.
Please no wrinkles, Please no bags
Please lift my butt before it sags.
Please no age spots, Please no gray
And as for my belly, take it away.
Please keep me healthy, Please keep me young,
And thank you Dear Lord, For all that you've done.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Democrats vs. Republicans - Heated Political Debates





I come from the old school of business ethics wherein discussion of politics is considered taboo for the workplace. And since this is my workplace (ahem), I refuse to even tread upon that topic. Sorry to disappoint you, but hot and heavy political debates is not something that I will be discussing here. My views are privately shared with my loyal, loving dog who always wags her tail in agreement to all my economic and social views. And of course my DH, but he just grunts to whatever I say (no tail wagging from him). So, instead of trying to persuade, convince or coerce you into some kind of political arena, I'd rather bring a little humor before you. Enjoy!

"We're leaning more and more about John and Cindy McCain. He's on this big biography tour. I guess his wife Cindy is worth over $100 million because the family made money selling Budweiser beer. So he has a wife 20 years younger than him, free beer, and unlimited money. I think I speak for all guys when I go, 'Why is he running for president?'" --Jay Leno

"Barack Obama was speaking to a Jewish group, and he told them that his name Barack is the same as the Jewish word 'baruch,' which means one who's blessed. That's what he said, yeah. Obama had a harder time explaining his middle name, Hussein. Things got quiet there." –Conan O'Brien

"Barack Obama gave a big speech on race, and there was one heckler in the audience, kept screaming crazy stuff the whole time. Turns out it was his pastor." --Jay Leno

"Earlier today, John McCain released 1,200 pages of his medical records. Or, as his doctor calls it, Chapter One." --Conan O'Brien

"Vice President Dick Cheney's wife, Lynne Cheney, said that Barack Obama and Dick Cheney are related. She said they are actually eighth cousins. ... Lynne Cheney says that Obama and Dick Cheney's connection was the result of one of Obama's ancestors marrying one of Cheney's ancestors in 1650. Even more interesting, you know who introduced them in 1650? Bob Dole." --Jay Leno

"You see Barack Obama at that rally surrounded by all those Kennedys? Man, I couldn't tell if he was running for president or bartender." --Jay Leno

"John McCain is now crisscrossing the United States campaigning. Or, as they're calling it, Antiques Roadshow." --Jay Leno

"Are you familiar with the Hillary Clinton 3 a.m. phone call commercial that she's been running? … Well, she's got another one of those, and the phone rings at 3 a.m., Hillary answers the phone, she picks it up, and she says "Stop bothering me, President Obama!" –David Letterman

"And John McCain has one of those 3 a.m. campaign commercials. In this one it's 3 a.m. and he just gets up to go to the bathroom." –David Letterman

Compiled by Daniel
Kurtzman
.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Reprieve from Cooking - L&L Hawaiian Barbecue




I am soooo excited/giddy/stoked that the new location of L&L finally opened it doors right next door to where we live. Well, not really next door but very very close. Close enough for my eldest and I to sneak off to while hubby and the other kids were taking a nap. The anticipation of waiting over a year for the construction to be finished and then stalking it every other day to see whether they've opened is finally over. Hello Chicken Katsu, Lemon Chicken, Spam Musubi, Kahlua Pork, and Loco Moco. (Hello spare tire, that will eventually look like a regular tire around my waist, after eating here). I think that we finished our food in less than five minutes flat. No, we didn't order everything on the menu;) Our plate lunch was onolicious and well worth the wait. I guess maybe next time we should bring DH and the rest of the kids=)

In case you have a craving for some local Hawaiian food and there are no L&L's around you, AlohaWorld has plenny of recipes to try. Enjoy and don't forget to save some for us;)

Friday, September 19, 2008

Happy TGIF



Hope you all have a wonderful weekend, sleep-in, and eats lots of good food. Flowers from my MIL's beautiful garden.

Welcome and thanks for visiting our blog. Prepare to be served with jewels, food, and a little bit of humor. Enjoy your stay and hope to see you again soon.