Auld Lang Syne

A symbol of newfound friendships, laughter and growth, the blossom collection comes to mind when I think about the beginning of a new year.

May we all remember those that have touched our lives in one way or another this past year. Whether it be a spouse, a soldier, a pastor or rabbi, a neighbor, a sales person or a child - let's raise our glasses to the goodness in mankind that resides in our world. May tonight and tomorrow we celebrate the friendships we have and the ones to come in 2010.

Happy New Year!!

Fiore Blossom Ring with Peridot and diamonds. Sterling silver and 18k gold. Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

Christmas Cards

We didn't make a Christmas card this year (or last year for that matter). Not sure where the time goes but it go, go, goes!!

I remember looking at my husband while opening the mail a week into December and saying "It doesn't look like many people are sending Christmas cards this year." Then during the following two weeks the cards were arriving rapid fire, I found myself saying "OH, NO!! We didn't make a Christmas card! How does everyone have time to make a family photo and we don't?"

Art just laughed at me.

I was disappointed that we didn't take the time to have a picture made with the four of us at some point during 2009! I realized yet again, that we still didn't have a family photo! I was starting to get mad! "How can we not have a family photo! Every photo we have, someone is missing, or my hair is goofy or Lily doesn't have on a shirt or Jack is blurred!!"

We spent Christmas back in Wichita this year and it was the most beautiful white Christmas. What a treat to have our two tiny tots experience the beauty of snow together for the first time. Our family was all inside gathered around my parents kitchen (as usual), when Art suggested we go outside and take a family photo. OH WOW! It was actually going to happen! Not only were we going to have a photo with the four of us, but on Christmas Day and with SNOW! I was pinching myself!!

So here it is!! Our very first Bourque Family photo with all the trappings!! Hooray!!

Happy Holidays to everyone and a very Happy New Year!!!!

Love,

The Bourque Family
Art, Sarah Jane, Jack and Lily

On The Twelth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

TWELVE DRAGONFLIES A FLUTTERING!

The dragonfly is the most current motif addition to the Saint collection.

I named our dragonfly "Qi" (pronounce chi). Qi is a symbol of enlightment.

I am anxious about the idea of being enlightened in some way, shape or form. I am eager to evolve and develop as a person. I realize sometimes this takes discipline of my own and most of the time it takes a lot of patience!

I am captured by the elegance and gracefulness of dragonflies. I wanted to translate that feeling of grace into each piece in the collection. I love the way the dragonfly sits so delicately on the sides of faceted stones and even mabe pearls. I feel as though my interpretation of a dragonfly into jewelry is one that is very feminine but yet extremely tailored and wearable for every day occasions.

On The Eleventh Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

ELEVEN CROSSES IN SPLENDOR!!

Have you ever researched how many different kinds of crosses there are? You would be astounded! I knew I was in over my head when my niece did a report on Ethiopian crosses and showed me hundreds of different designs.

I like to think that the Casa Cross (Copyright 2009), which is the cross that Saint is most well known for is my most favorite contribution to the world of crosses. I created the Casa Cross design when I first moved to Arizona. I was so excited to be living in the desert and the inspiration was abundant! I was in the beginning stages of developing my own collection and building a new life for myself. The Casa Cross always reminds me of new beginnings, my new home and my renewed spirit.

Casa Cross Pendant

Sterling Silver

Made by hand in the United States. Copyrigth 2009.

On The Tenth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

TEN DASHING HORSES!!

Strong, handsome and steadfast are three words I would use to describe Artemus, my horse design and...my husband! Well, actually, his name is Arthur but we call him Art or mostly "Artie!" :) If he were a cartoon super hero then he would most definitely be called "Artemus."

My husband Art inspired the creation of my horse design. The meaning of the horse is to follow your heart. However, unlike, a thoroughbred running around the track, my husband Art prefers to run long distances on mountain trails. Both are born to run and have amazing will and strong hearts.

Churchhill Downs Horse Bracelet

Sterling silver and 18k gold w/ diamond accents. Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

SAINT BY SARAH JANE EXCLUSIVE GIFT WRAPPING

Allow Saint to take care of the presentation while you enjoy the gift giving!

Saint is pleased to share with you our exclusive online gift wrap.

Now that you've selected your perfect gift, let us help with the gift wrapping.

We start by slipping your jewelry into a luxurious brown suede pouch that is then tucked inside a beautiful paper wrapped box that is tied together with an elegant gold ribbon. The gorgeous box is then inserted into a coordinating shopping bag with gold tone corded handles.

All three pieces feature Saint by Sarah Jane's signature stamping.

On The Ninth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

NINE PIGGIES "OINKING!!"

How charming can a pig be? Well, if she is covered with sweet smelling daisies she can't be all bad! I named my little hunky, chunky pig "Daisy." When I think of pigs my mind drifts back to the paper mache piggy bank that my parents brought me back from Mexico when I was a little girl. It was painted peacock blue and had swirls of painted patterns and flowers all over it. The opening on her belly was plugged with a big round piece of cork. I am sure that jogs some of your own memories.

Daisy is a symbol of prosperity. She is a reminder to save a little for a rainy day! Then when something comes along that catches you off gaurd (like a sterling silver pig named "Daisy") you will be able to treat yourself! :)

Featured today is the Small Daisy Pig Bracelet with a lobster claw closure. It is made of sterling silver and 18k gold. The bracelet is made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

Holiday Special: $99 Sheldon Turtle Sterling Silver Necklace and Earring Set Until December 31st!

SHELDON THE TURTLE IS A REMINDER TO SLOW DOWN AND ENJOY LIFE!

Just wanted everyone to know that we are extending the special pricing for certain delicate earring and necklace gift sets until December 31st. Normally they retail for $199. We are offering certain motifs at a holiday price of $99 for the set of earrings and matching necklace. Please check out our website! These are wonderful stocking stuffers as well as a fantastic gift at a great value!

Featured today is the turtle motif. We are also offering the ladybug, bee, casa cross and frog at the same special price for both the necklace and earring.

On The Eighth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

MOONS, STARS AND OWLS!!

Ruby eyes and a belly of gold

Perched on a half moon

so the story was told

Wise in his ways

Kind does he speak

"Eyeballs" the owl

Makes my wrist feel

complete!

Goodnight Moon Owl Bracelet

Sterling silver, 18k gold, rubies and yellow sapphires.

Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

On The Seventh Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

AN ANGEL HEART BRACELET!

An amulet of sorts, Annabelle was created to be a tangible symbol of protection. I wear my angel whenever I am feeling I need a little "back up."

She was around my neck when my mother and I participated (and finished) the Race for the Cure 3-Day walk. I wore Annabelle for both of my childrens ultrasounds. I like to wear Annabelle when I fly. I wear Annabelle whenever I am feeling uncertain or going through a difficult time.

When I look at Annabelle I am reminded that I do have someone watching, gaurding and protecting me.

Forever Heart Angel Bracelet

Sterling silver and 18k gold

Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009

On The Sixth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

BEAUTIFUL GOLDEN BLOSSOMS!

Created in the late 1990's, the blossom motif was inspired by my time spent studying design in Paris. I named the blossom collection after the Tuilleries Garden which is situated not so distant from the Musee d'orsay and the Place de la Concorde. It seemed to be a spot in Paris that my friends and I kept passing through. We spent a lot time in the Tuilleries Garden visiting with each other and watching the local Parisan's go about their day. The collection is symbolic of new found friendship, laughter and growth.

Tuilleries Blossom Earring.

Sterling silver and 18k gold.

Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

On The Fifth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

DIAMOND HOPPING FROGS!

A little love and friendship in your life is ALWAYS a good thing, which is why I created Otis. Otis is my little froggy friend that carries all his love around in his heart shaped backpack. Otis is always there for us when we need some love.

Otis' meaning came to fruition one lonely Saturday evening while I was working away in my office. I thought I would take a break from my work and for no apparent reason, I just opened up the front door to my house. I happened to look down onto the walkway and there in front of me was an enormous frog! WOW! HELLO! If this isn't a sign, then I don't know what is! I held onto my encounter with the frog and, just knew it was a sign that love was coming my way in the near future. Sure enough, six months later I met my future husband for the first time. I knew when I saw that big old froggy that something great was going to happen.

Otis Diamond Barbarilla Frog Bracelet.

Made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

On The Fourth Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

DELIGHTFUL LADYBUGS!

Sweet little "Lola" ladybug is a cheery little gal who has an infectious aura of happiness all around her. A symbol of good luck, definitely to be worn anytime and all the time!

Featured here today is the "Delicate Ladybug Necklace and Earrings." A tiny pea sized ladybug set that makes a wonderful holiday gift at an exceptional value. Check it out!

Delicate Ladybug Necklace and Earrings.

Copyright 2009.

On The Third Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

PINK BUTTERFLIES!

Beautiful "Betula" butterfly elegantly flutters as an 18k gold accent on gorgeous pink topaz gemstones. Betula is a reminder to keep a young heart, mind and spirit. Aahhhh, something that is sometimes easier said then done! My hopes in designing this butterfly is that by looking at her gracefulness, you will be internally transformed into your younger heart.

Dancing Butterfly Pink Topaz Earrings.

All Designs are made by hand.

Copyright 2009.

On The Second Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

A TWO TURTLE BRACELET!


The turtle motif was launched in the early part of the millenium with the idea of relaxation and enjoyment in mind. I named my turtle "Sheldon" and suggested that we all draw on him as a reminder to slow down and enjoy life. I love to tell the story about my grandfather telling us that "you only have so many heart beats." The question is how are you going to use them? Are you going to use them creating happy memories and enjoying your time and experiences or are you going to use them in a stressful manner that leaves you uptight? It reminds me of the expression "Whatever!" I cherish the memory of my grandfather. He always exuded a wonderful peacefulness and he had the lightest blue eyes that reflected a wonderful twinkle.

Sir Sheldon Honor Silver Bracelet.
All made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

On The First Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

A SILVER NECKLACE WITH A GOLD AND DIAMOND BUMBLE BEE!

I designed this signature bumble bee as a beacon of light. The bumble bee is a reminder you can do anything you set your mind to. This whimsical sterling silver and 18k gold winged bee w/ pave diamonds is here to help you overcome any obstacle. How is this so? Aerodynamically a bee should not be able to fly because its body weighs eight times its wing size. This amazing little winged bug that I call "Buzz," defies the laws of physics among many other fantastic talents!

"Devora Dazzle Diamond Wish Necklace"

All made by hand in the United States. Copyright 2009.

It's Jewelry Season!

December is a very fun time of year to be in the jewelry business!

People are excited about wearing their jewelry because there are so many holiday parties and festivities that call for "bonus accessorizing!" It is fun to see women wearing their "better jewelry" and truly enjoying being "glammed up!" You can tell women all around us are feeling good and loving the way they look and feel in their winter wardrobe and amazing jewelry! It is exciting to watch spouses hem haw over certain pieces, deciding which one(s) will make the perfect gift. I take great pleasure in hearing about womens special pieces and how they came about owning them and what impact they have made on their lives. BELIEVE ME- jewelry really does make a personal impact!

I even find myself wearing more special pieces lately - pieces that I haven't worn in quite some time. I am home with my two tots and always have on some sort of Saint (it is just in the blood) - but lately I have really enjoyed wearing some styles that are more custom and festive. Gosh! It is really fun!! :) I don't have the time that I used to, to tinker in my personal jewelry box - so this morning while my son Jack was napping, I attempted to do so w/ my precious Lily monitoring every move I made. Well, it was a successful project because I was able to pull together some wonderful charms that have such personal sentiment and just slide them all together onto a simple chain. The impact was awesome. I love the charms and loved that I was able to wear them all together. It was artsy and sparkly and festive! The necklace then proceeded to make me feel happy and artsy and festive and even sparkly!!

Being able to accessorize is a wonderful part of fashion for everyone. Pulling together your jewelry and other accessories with what you are wearing to visually express the personal side of yourself is such an exciting opportunity that we all have. As our body language is mostly unconscience, the conscience choices we make with our accessories have the ability to tell outsiders much about ourselves. This is a wonderful time of year to pull out our amazing jewelry and tell everyone we are happy and merry and ready to have some fun!!

Our Troops

I received an email forward yesterday. It is a forward that I have probably received a handful of times and each time I scroll down and look at the images - I cry. It is a forward that talks about our brave troops and shows several images of the way they are sleeping in the middle of war zones. The forward tells us that the next time we are "uncomfortable" to remember the way that these men and women are sleeping at night. When I look at the images I think how hard it must be in their shoes. I think about how strong and tough and brave they are. I think about how they must really hurt and be scared and lonely sometimes or even all the time.

I was at the Starbucks drive thru a few months back and they were asking customers to purchase coffee to send over to the troops. I remember when I purchased my bags of coffee that they didn't offer to let me sign the bags w/ a personal note. I got really upset inside. I thought that was an opportunity to connect with them. I HAVE TO SIGN THOSE BAGS!! They kindly gave me the bags to sign and there wasn't enough room to say all that I needed to say to them. I pictured young men and women opening up one of the bags of coffee my family bought for them and hopefully reading my messages. It was a very meaningful moment to me.

I remember traveling through the airport a month ago and seeing a soldier on the tram in the Dallas airport. I wanted so badly to tell him "thank you." I didn't do it. When he exited the tram on a stop before me, I saw another lady tell him "thank you." It still tugs at my heart that I didn't tell that man thank you.

I was in a fabric store a few weeks ago looking around. There was a young man helping me. Three of his friends walked up to him in the middle of our conversation and said "Hey buddy, were taking off." One of the boys was on crutches and missing a leg. Another boy was missing an arm. The third boy was in one piece and hugged his friend goodbye. When they all left, the young man that was helping me looked back at me and said "Those are my friends. He is leaving for Iraq tomorrow." I got nauseous. They were boys.

I really don't know who reads this blog. My wish is to tell all the men and women in service for our country thank you for keeping my family safe. I admire your strength, commitment and bravery.