My Favorite Christmas Day Memory

I will cut to the chase and share that it has been a challenge for my daughter Lily to "accept" her younger brother Jack into the family. They are 15.5 months apart. His arrival was not only devastating for Lily but caused her a great deal of stress, jealousy and anger, no matter how much he adored her the last two years.

The last six months have been much better. The two of them are learning how much fun they can have together and are actually playing together, laughing and sometimes even....sharing!

I need to take a moment here to collect myself... tic...toc...tic....toc!

While things are still not Disneyland, they are far better than when we first started.

My most favorite memory of Christmas 2010 will be Lily running out to the Christmas tree to see if Santa had been to our house. When she saw that he had been to our home...she bypassed all of her toys and ran straight up to a toy that she knew Jack had really wanted for Christmas (a Buzz Lightyear Doll). She grabbed the doll and dashed right into her younger brothers room and announced "Look Jackie! Santa brought you a Buzz Lightyear Doll!" It was the sweetest moment. Real progress! To see her share excitement for him made my entire day.

To see she had gotten the Christmas message "tis better to give than receive" made my heart dance. And even if she didn't get that message - I am still gonna roll w/ it! :) Ha!

It's A Sign!

Thus far, I have received SEVEN cookbooks for my birthday this year. It is a sign. A sign of...


Frustration?

Hope?

Encouragement?

I hate to be a Debbie downer - BUT- what else am I supposed to think? I guess I will just keep at it!

I'll show'm! ;)

It's All About the Gravy!

So, I finally made my first Thanksgiving dinner. I have to say that I did enjoy making everything. It was fun to finally be on the other side of it and see how it all comes together. The turkey turned out great along with the sweet potatoes. My mashed potatoes were a little runny and the dressing was edible. The pumpkin pie was too gross to serve (I am still wondering how you can screw up pumpkin pie - but I miraculously did). Last but not least - I made the most disgusting gravy that you could possible make! Yeah for me! It was baaahhhd! What I am dumbfounded about today is that I was such a ding-a-ling to serve it! I mean..where was my head? Why did I put it out there for guests? I guess I just found myself in such motion to get things done that even though I tasted it and it was gross and I didn't like it, I thought there should be gravy (good or bad). I spent most of my time working on the gravy...maybe I felt that sense most of my efforts went into the gravy that it was going to be on that table NO MATTER WHAT! Scary!!

Thank heaven for good Aunt Sharon (aka Ina Garten), no pressure preparing your first Thanksgiving meal w/ your Goumand Aunt as your guest! She showed up w/ apple pie from scratch and the most delicious hand made pumkin rolls (ditch the pumpkin pie and white flour buns from Safeway ASAP)! I must say she handled my disasters with great class and ease. I looked at her and said "this gravy is disgusting...it tastes like a salt lick." Aunt Sharon tasted the poison gravy and calmly said "it's a little salty."

HA! HA! HA! HILLARIOUS!

Well, all in all, I feel good about the day...the food was by no means perfect but I was happy to serve my family and I think they appreciated my efforts. I love them all and maybe next time I can show them my love with better food!

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! Now, let's get ready for Christmas!!! Woo! Hoo!!

What I Like

I like smiles. I like crocodile tears. I like Eskimo kisses. I like the pitter patter of rain on the roof. I like the sound of football on in the background and the smell of popcorn. I like jeans. I like cowboy boots. I like watching plants grow and bloom. I like watching children grow and bloom even more! I like the sound of my feet crunching on the rocks when I hike a trail alone. I like the sense of accomplishment. I like a stunning ring. I like grilling outside on the weekends. I like turtles. I like doing something the right way. I like making others feel special. I like every single color there is and ever will be. I like honesty. I like courage. I like empathy. I like love. I like aging. I like crosses. I like having experience. I like being strong. I like time for prayer and thanks. I like cotton sweats. I like flip flops. I like a good pair of earrings. I like going out for ice cream. I like cuff bracelets best. I like athletics. I like the desert. I like Sunday drives.

Love'n "That Time of Year!"

Well "that time of year" started about a month ago. I don't know about you, but I have been busy, busy, busy getting in the holiday spirit with my family. I am feeling rather proud of myself this time around as I feel as though I am really getting into the swing of the whole holiday thing. Art and I have been married for seven years and every year I seem to take it a step further when it comes to doing all those things that make family holidays special and memorable. It is a lot harder than I even imagined. Kids seem to make the biggest difference. They make it very rewarding for me. Before we had kids I don't even think we had a tree for the first few years. I was traveling all the time and tired and Art was well - " a dude." Times sure have changed - and so have I. When we had our kids I really wanted to readjust my thinking and dive into making our holidays become more "alive." It is such a great way to bring families together. Seize the moment! I have memories of my mom making great holiday meals, and the house always felt like Thanksgiving and Christmas. I really appreciated and enjoyed it - now that I am doing it I have an even greater appreciation. Oh my gosh....lots of work! In any regard, having that experience makes me want to share it with my family and have them enjoy these times of year - make it special for them and for Art and I. My hope is that we will all look back and cherish these times. It is supposed to be fun!! I'm gonna have some fun!

Petite and Unique!

Tiny 18k gold and sterling silver ladybug necklace with six diamond spots.

Design made by hand in the good old U.S.A. Chain hand made in Germany.

When you put this one on...you never take it off!

Learn more about this style by clicking here

Circle

"You have noticed that everything an Indian does is in a circle and that is because the Power of the World works in circles, and everything tries to be round...The sky is round, and I have heard that the earth is round like a ball, and so are all the stars. The wind, in its greatest power whirls. Birds make their nests in circles, for theirs is the same religion as ours. The sun comes forth and goes down again in a circle. The moon does the same, and both are round. Even the seasons form a great circle in their changing...The life of a man is a circle from childhood to childhood, and so it is in everything where Power moves."

Black Elk (Oglala Sioux)

Featured item: Large Sir Sheldon Pendant in sterling silver

Who Am I?

Guess who I am for Halloween and receive a 20% off coupon towards Saint Online!

Send your guess to saint@saintbysarahjane.com

Contest ends October 31st!

FREE NECKLACE

http://www.saintbysarahjane.com/FREEnecklacehttp://

THEY ALWAYS GETCHA WHEN YOUR GAURD IS DOWN!

I had just finished giving both my kids a big Saturday night bubble bath, chased them all around the bedroom to brush their teeth and hair and finally wrestled my two year old son to the floor so I could put his diaper. Mission accomplished! I sent them off to the kitchen to hang out with their dad so that I might have a good ten minutes of my own to clean up and zone out!

After I was all clean and cozy in my pj's I walked half awake out of our bedroom and into the kitchen when.....

PAIN!! PAIN!! LOUD SCREAM!! MORE PAIN!!! VERY LOUD SCREAM! OH MY GOODNESS MORE PAIN!! EVEN LOUDER SCREAM! I AM DYING PAIN!! LOUDEST SCREAM EVER!!

I STEPPED RIGHT ON TOP OF A SCORPION IN THE DARK.

Horrific pain was shooting into my foot and up my calf. It was pulsing and burning like I had been injected with boiling acid and it was going straight into my veins.

It took thirteen years of living in the desert to finally get initiated into the scorpion club.

I spent the rest of the evening on the couch and in bed with a burning leg that would convulse every five minutes. Luckily the pain was gone by morning and only light tingles remained the following day.

From what I understand, my bite wasn't that bad...if that was a "light bite" then I cannot imagine anymore!

Of course, all the talk around our home is about scorpions, and everyone is on the lookout. I am just so thankful it was me and not my kids.

"Mi Casa Es Su Casa!"

One thing I love about cuff links is that they are mostly gender neutral.

On that note, I like to think of them as something you can "share." Thus making it a guiltless purchase. Right?

When shopping for cufflinks as a gift for your partner ALWAYS make sure that YOU really like them and that YOU can wear them too!

Because I gaurantee at some point YOU WILL!

Featured are the Casa Cross Cuff Links in Sterling Silver. To view more Saint Cuff Links click here.

Wanda Bracelet

Everything creative is inspired by something - right? Well...WHAT popped into my mind when I designed the Wanda bracelet?

Do you really want to know?

Remember that Dixie Chics song about a jerk named Earl and a tough gal named Wanda?

THIS is the bracelet that Wanda wore when she let Earl "have it!"

Kind of funny - huh?

Featured is the Wanda Bracelet with Otis the frog in black lizard.

The Wanda bracelet is available in multiple colored skins and most motifs. Just give us a call or send us an email and we will make you a Wanda bracelet for when you need to carry the big guns! ;)

LOL!!

PS this bracelet can be made to fit ANY size wrist...small or large. Just give us your wrist size and we will do the rest!

Goodie Bags And Hugs Aren't All They are Cracked Up to Be!

Saturday morning at 8:30am my 3 year old daughter Lily and I were driving to a birthday party that she was invited to by a pre-school classmate named Aidan. Aidan is a boy.

We were gracefully gliding down the freeway listening to a little Michael Jackson while I absorbed my second cup of coffee, when I notice Lily is just sitting in her car seat beaming. She has the biggest smile on her face. So, I turn down "Beat It" and ask Lily what she is smiling about. Lily pipes out "Aidan loves me."

SCREEEEEECH!

"What did you say Lily?"

Lily replies "Aidan loves me."

I say "He does? That's nice."

Then Lily tells me that she loves Aidan too and that he invited her to his birthday party and they love each other.

I am thinking this is totally hillarious. Wait - no, this isn't funny at all! What is going on over there at that pre-school!!??

The conversation didn't evolve into any more than that but I have to say I was a little weirded out by it!

We had a great time at the party and I kept a close eye on Aidan the entire time (if you know what I mean). I didn't have any cause for concern except the goodbye hug at the end (which everyone took part in).

When we were driving home from the party, Lily told me that she really loved Aidan and that he gave her a present (a goodie bag) and a hug.

I was thinking to myself, 'Lily, I hate to blow it to you but everyone got a goodie bag and a hug from Aidan.'

THANK GOD!

Deco Cotillion Bee Earrings

Q. What do you get when you combine swiss blue topaz and green amethyst?

A. A perfect combo.

Whether your eyes be brown, blue or green, the Deco Cotillion Bee Earrings will frame your face and complexion most beautifully.

Not to mention that an 18k gold bee tickling your lobe can't help but make you smile!

Retail price is $895. Less 20% for the month of September if you are a Saint By Sarah Jane Facebook Fan - or - signed up for our newsletter.

Carpe Diem! To learn more click here.

Daisy Pig Bracelet

Stand on your head, wiggle your toes, and pat your belly while wearing Daisy and you are bound to be prosperous!

Well...it is worth a try! ;)

Daisy Pig is a symbol of prosperity. Wear her as a reminder to save your pennies for a rainy day - or - just wear her because you love pigs and she is a really cute one!

Fashioned after the paper mache piggy bank I had as a child, sans 18k gold and diamonds.

Daisy is a good ole gal! She'll make ya smile....oh and feel really guilty when you splurge! :)

ALERT:

Except you won't feel guilty buying Daisy in September because all Saint Jewelry is 20% off and FREE Fed Ex Shipping for the month of September! WOW!

Enter Coupon Code: FBFAN092010.

To check out all the styles in the Saint Pig Collection, click here.

SALE: Amethyst Turtle Ring

TATUM RING:

Sheldon the Turtle is showing off his gorgeous, faceted amethyst shell. Sterling silver ring with 18k gold bezel mounting. Sheldon's head and tail gently peek out from underneath his shell. Turtle is 1/2" diameter and stone is 10mm.

Limited edition trunk show ring. Get yours today before they are gone!

WAS: $995

NOW: $695

Plus free Fed Ex shipping!

Sheldon is a reminder to slow down and enjoy life. You only have so many heart beats! How are you going to use them?

Click here to purchase or learn more.

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!!

I picked up the movie"Mary Poppins" at the library last week, thinking it would be a fun weekend treat for the four of us to watch together.

It was quite a slumber party! Last night the four of us snuggled up in "the big bed" together with a big bowl of popcorn, a little cup of M&M's and our milks (of course).

Art nor I have watched "Mary Poppins" in over thirty years at least. It was a real treat to watch such talent and creativity. Lily and Jack were transfixed on the film and all the incredible magic of Mary Poppins. It was such a happy, fun time!!

If you are looking for a fun family night, and you have little ones at home - I highly recommend this great family film. I love Mary Poppins!! :) How could you not??

The Coolist Accessory on The Market - EVER!

Take a look around. Not a lot of people have one and if they do then they certainly are not using it. It should be coveted like a Chanel bag.

You are mistaken if you think D&G, Versace or Stella are what is going to make you shine! Shine! Shine!

Gucci handbags, Prada sunglasses, Louis flip flops are all very chic and "oh, so glam!" Of course Saint jewelry is waaaaaaaay up top when it comes to "look'n good!" ;)


A...SMILE

Seriously. Please smile! All the time. Till it hurts and you want to cry but you can't cry because you are obsessed with smiling!

OH! I can't tell you what a difference it makes when you smile. Even if you don't like your teeth - SMILE! Smile w/ your mouth closed....JUST SMILE!! Make it stick. Work on it.

I am so, so, so tired of walking around town looking at people who are dead. People who think that if they smile their "cool factor" will drop into the red. Or people that refuse to make eye contact and connect with another person in fear of having to stop what they are doing and actually engage. Hey, I am guilty of it myself. I also don't like it when I behave that way....not cool.

There is nothing more uplifting then having someone that you don't know just smile at you and say "hi!" You don't ever see them again - but they just gave you a very special gift. They got you to smile too. That is really the coolist. I love that.

One of the inspirations behind my jewerly is getting people to smile and creating connections. Should your little bee earrings make someone smile at you - that just makes my day!

Smiling is what it is all about.

Send Them Back to School with a Little Saint!

First Day of School Blues

The day that I have been dreaming about for the last few years has finally arrived. My little Lily started her first day of school today.

I must admit I was so excited for her to start school. Thinking it would take some of the load off me and hoping to have some quality one on one time w/ my son who is only 15 months younger than she.

After walking her to her classroom and leaving the parking lot I had this hollow feeling in my heart. All these emotions starting rising. "She's gone. This is really strange. I miss her. I am sad. Will she be okay?"

Jack and I spent the morning together trying to figure out our new roles as Lily's absence has us both a little weirded out. We made our way just fine - albeit a little more quietly and less chaotic! :)

We were both so excited to pick Lily up and eager to hear all about her first day. She was so excited to see Jack and I and that made us feel really great. It looked like she had a great day. It was all going so well. Then we walked into the house and she spouted out a few bossy words and I had to send her to her room. Then she had a nice little 'never ending' melt down. Aaahhhh... my reality check!

I can't wait for school tomorrow! ;)

Hoot! Hoot! Hoot! Hoot! Hoot!

It's back to school and a little good grade karma never hurt anyone.

Wear "Eyeballs" the hoot owl for superior wisdom and style.

Now bring home those awesome grades!

Hoot! Hoot!

Featured Item: Eyeballs Longfellow Owl Necklace

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

To learn more about our featured item, please click the photo image.

Staying Young

Everyone always says that your children keep you young. I agree! Young and tired! Ha! Ha! There are other things that I think keep you young too and one of the biggest is girlfriends. I love all my girlfriends. I wouldn't say that I have very many, but the ones that I have always make me feel young.

I never really thought about that aspect of friendships until today.

Tomorrow a dear friend of mine is flying to Phoenix for our second annual "girls weekend." Wooooooh!! Hoooooh!

After I had my little Lily and she had her twin girls we agreed that a yearly "escape" is a mandatory part of the job description.

What do we do? We go bull riding, race car driving and bungee jumping. :) Kidding.

It probably sounds very boring but in between hours and hours of talking and disecting every aspect of one anothers lives we eat lots of salads, drink plenty of wine, power walk, get a massage, catch a few movies, go on a mini road trip somewhere...ANYWHERE, shop some, and just totally veg out. Basically it is an exercise in what your life was like when you were dating your husband (ha! ha!).

By the time the weekend is over we are reasonably detoxified and ready to hit it!

A good friend makes you feel good. When you feel good you feel young and when you feel young you are more energetic, positive and happy.

So I am thinking to myself that the reason I am feeling so yound and happy lately is because I have my children, my husband, my girlfriends and of course Zumba! Life is good!

Featured Item: Betula Large Leather Butterfly Necklace (Betuala Butterfly is a reminder to keep a young heart, mind and spirit). To learn more about this piece please click on the photo image.

Resort 2011 Accessories Trend: Wicker Park - WWD.com

Wow! Resort 2011 Accessories Trend has Saint Jewelry written ALL OVER IT!

WOVENS, WICKER AND CANE PATTERNS ARE ALL THE RAGE FOR NEXT SPRING!!!

Resort 2011 Accessories Trend: Wicker Park - WWD.com

20% Commission On Each Sale. It's Easy: Just Blog About Us!

Image via Wikipedia

Hi Saint fans!

I am writing this letter to you because Saint is offering you a special program that I really think would interest you.

I would like to seriously encourage all of you to consider signing up for our affiliate program. It is a great way to make some extra spending money or if you like, apply it towards your own Saint purchases.

It is soooo easy. Once you sign up, all you have to do is post your personal affiliate i.d. link on your website, or your blog or even your Facebook pages (with some verbage promoting Saint or a particular piece if you like).

Everytime someone clicks on your personal Saint affiliate link on your blog, Facebook pages or website, you receive a 20% commission from whatever they purchase FOR THE NEXT YEAR. Once they click your link they are "cyberly" attached to your Saint I.D. and no matter when they buy Saint online in the next year, YOU receive a 20% commission from the sale.

If you have your own website you can post your affiliate link on your personal site as well and even upload and promote Saint pieces.

Of course the more you promote your affiliate link the more you will make. You can refer people to it when they need a gift for birthdays, holidays or special occasions. Tell your friends and family to use your personal link when they buy Saint Online.

Why is Saint offering an affiliate link for our online sales?

Saint has always been about grass roots marketing since the beginning of our business. We have built our brand one customer at a time by referals, good customer service and a product that exceeds quality and design expectations. The affiliate program is a fun and simple way to give back to our customers and let our customers be a part of our business and help our business grow.

To sign up for the Saint affiliate program please visit: www.saintbysarahjane.com/Store/Affiliates

Sincerely,

Sarah Jane
Designer

Never Say Never! Zumba Anyone?

The last six months or so I have been at a crossroads in my "fitness" program.

I am tired of the treadmill, soooo tired of damaged hair from lap swimming, and not so "excited" about yoga. The thought of hiking when our summer heat reaches highs as high as 117 - no thanks!

Zumba! Yep! Zumba! I crawled to the gym a few weeks ago for my weekly routine and while I was power walking away on the treadmill, I watched (as I always do) all the people in the fitness classes.

Gosh...they look like they are having a really good time. They are really sweating. Why is the line going around the corner to get into that class??

There I was the following week - in my first Zumba class. Nervous, shy and thinking to myself that the last time I had taked a class at the gym was in the early 90's. This could be ugly.

The room was packed, I mean PACKED with gabby women of all ages, ethnicities, shapes and sizes (and a handful of men too).

Everyone was anxious, social and pumped up!

In walked a fire ball of energy that clearly doesn't know how to NOT smile. He said "Hi! I am Teddy! I am your instructor!"

The music started and I was hooked!! WHAT A BLAST! I haven't had this much fun exercising since I was a teenage girl! That is probably why it is so much fun because it makes me feel like a teenage girl again.

I get as excited for my Zumba class like I got excited to go out on Friday night when I was a teen. It is the strangest thing!

Everybody Zumba!! :)

You Know You Had A Great Summer Vacation If:

1) Where ever you are doesn't have cell service or wireless internet
2) The temperature isn't too hot or too cold
3) You have as much fun as your kids
4) You actually return home relaxed and not stressed (there is a first time for everything)
5) You come home with no dirty laundry (literally and figuratively)
6) On the last day you are ready to go home but sad to leave
7) You still had a FANTASTIC time without any shopping! (yes, this is true)
8) You aren't really sure where the time went or what you did but you just keep thinking and saying "what a great trip!"

Hope everyone has a chance to escape this summer. We just returned from our summer vacation up in the San Juan Mountains and as you can guess - we had a great time!

Saint By Sarah Jane Affiliate Program

Promote Saint By Sarah Jane on your blog, newsletter or website and earn 20% for every purchase made by referrals.

To sign up visit: www.saintbysarahjane.com/Store/Affiliates

DROP IT!

Become a convert. Take any style of Saint By Sarah Jane earrings and have them altered into a removable drop to hang from your own hoop earrings or from any of our assorted hoop styles.

Need a change? Send us your Saint By Sarah Jane button style earrings and we will convert them into removable drops for you to hang from one of our custom woven hoop earring styles.

Visit our website and choose your hoop earring style then choose the drop style and we will take care of the rest!

Fairy Godmother

Yesterday I took my 3 year old daughter Lily to meet "The Fairy Godmother" for story time at the Library. She was doing a "special" on Fancy Nancy. Lily is enamoured with Fancy Nancy books and clothes etc. Everyday is dress up.

Surprisingly, when story time began and the fairy godmother began to speak - Lily got very scared. She turned to the back of the room and looked at me in horror and said "Mommy, I am very nervous. Mommy, I am scared. Mommy, I want to go home!"

Greeeaaaaat....

She ended up joining myself and her little bother on my lap in the back of the room. Then out of no where her hand jolted to the cieling when the fairy godmother asked for a volunteer.

Okaaaaay.....

She was chosen to assist in a little magic trick with the fairy godmother - after that I couldn't get her to sit down for anything.

Interesting.....

By the time we left, she and the fairy godmother were best pals and Lily just couldn't quit staring at her. She followed her all the way to the library entrance and even watched her get paid!

One of the greatest joys of parenting has been to relive some of my memories of my youth through my children. Oh, to believe in fairy godmothers and Santa and the Easter Bunny and even trolls under bridges again!

Have an Epiphany

I am wearing this chain almost everyday the last month. Life is busy and I can't think straight! Swim lessons, library, play dates, pbjs, mac and cheese....on and on....

The Epiphany necklace has been my "go to" item. Looks great w/ t-shirts, polos and shorts, flip flops, jeans or a sun dress.

Simple, rich and sporty.

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

To learn more about the Epiphany necklace, please click on the image.

The Dad

The dad who gave me my first push when my training wheels came off my bike

The dad who came home from work late, and after dinner headed down to the basement to study late into the night

The dad who leads by example: integrity, morals and hard work

The dad whom I know without a doubt I can still call at 3am without any hesitation

The dad who told me that I should marry for love - that I can never go wrong

The dad who used to take me fishing on summer evenings

The dad who can listen when I really need him to just listen

The dad who made it possible for me to take gymnastics, go to college, create a business

The dad who so gracefully knows when to butt out and when to butt in

The dad who taught me how to drive at a very young age on the old back, dirt roads after church

The dad who is always ready to go out to dinner

The dad I know I can always count on for a good, long walk

The dad who I look at today and know is so proud to be a grandfather

The dad I am so blessed to have and to always love

Peaceful Desert Life...

So, I am on my way out the garage door to the backyard to hose down a yoga matt that hasn't been touched in three years and I turn the corner and "HELLO!" A rattling, hissing and coiled Diamond Back Rattler is two feet in front of me. NO- I am not exaggerating.

What did I do? Lost all breathing capabilities, nausea crept in fast and I ran like hell!

Raced inside and told Art and he proceeded to call the "snake guys" aka "reptile removal." While he was doing that I snuck back outside to make sure the little booger didn't go somewhere else and of course he was long gone. I was thinking 'my kids, my kids. We can't come out here again until we find that thing." Shaking and dry heaving, I kept looking. FINALLY, I found him sandwiched between our house and a loose sheet being used to cover an outside buffet. Holy macaroni, did I ever lose it when I found him! Oh! I couldn't get a handle on myself. Shaking and jumpy and nauseous eeeeewwwweeeee!!

Justin, the volunteer reptile removal specialist arrived and was probably thinking "Oh, another garden snake...yaaaaaaaaaaawn." Low and behold - this was a good one!! "Mating season! Good thing it was a male. If it was a female then you'd be getting a few more" he informed my husband.

Don't you love seeing my 23 month old sons popper toy right next to the snake? Lovely.

Finger Painting 101

Trying to expand my childrens artistic experiences, I decided to invest in some finger paints for a fun and cool summer project for my kiddos. I have held off on finger painting for a pretty long time, thinking "they can do that in school some day." Then I start to feel guilty - that I needed to get over my strong tendencies to keep things clean and focus on what would be a great experience for them. Big mistake! :)

We really did have a blast w/ the paints but the aftermath is three times the amount of time of the painting . Post painting, not knowing where to begin, I calmly guided both cuties out to the backyard and let the water hose rip! Sprinkler time! I have always joked about having to take a hose to the high chair...well, today I actually stepped out of the way and let Lily and Jack wash the high chair.

I think next time we will do our painting on the picnic table, outside, naked! Yes, there will be a next time! :)

Free Cuff Links For Dad!

Save Up to $100 On Saint

"Babies"

I went to see the documentary "Babies" yesterday. It was wonderful. I highly recommend. I walked away realizing that there is not one way to care for a baby. Just show them love, love, love and everything will be alright!

Lost and Found

Like myself, most people that I converse with seem to have the belief that everything does happen for a reason. Then...there are those that do not have that philosophy. I feel that I have made a genuine attempt at looking beyond this "universal law" but I come back to it time and time again.

I have been dealing with some inner demons the last couple of months. In the process I just didn't want to accept that "everything happens for a reason." Not this time.

The idea of working on finding some sort of peace about things or at least some understanding has not been my focus. Rather, I have been fighting it and fighting it. Feeling the need to be strong and charge foward have consumed my thinking almost daily. There are some things you can not fix - at least not on your terms, which is usually part of the equation.

I have finally decided that it is time to throw it to wind.

Let it go. Change my focus.

Be good. Be kind and giving. Be loving. Be hopeful. Mostly, be trusting.

I am finally heading towards peace. I am letting go. It is time to make a conscience effort to live my life for each day - now. Not for what could of been or what might be.

Having made this "revelation" I am already healing. My heart is already starting to warm almost as if it had been hiding from me(I really can't blame it). Once I made the decision to let go of my pain, my heart immediately came back to me. An indescribable feeling.

Featured: Sheldon Turtle Drop Earring in 18k gold and sterling silver w/ diamond accent

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Turning Blue From Going Green!

Image via Wikipedia

We are doing a fairly good job at our house at being conscience of the environment and our environmental "duties." We recycle, although I have been reminding Art for the last three years that banana peels do not go in our recycle bin. We are aware of how much we water our lawn (it is always too much). We use the energy saver light bulbs, reuse our paper bags and so on and so forth.

On the other hand, SOME DAYS IT DRIVES ME CRAZY! Some days laziness gets the best of me and I think forming these new habits is getting the better of me. I say "new habits" because everytime I get to a point where I feel we are doing alright there is another new habit that we can implement.

A while back I was serving my kids lunch on paper plates. I love using paper plates when I can because they are easy. We all love easy -right? Then I start thinking too hard about it; "Hmmm, is it better to use a paper plate or to wash a real plate? If I use a real plate then I am using more water, but if I use a paper plate then that is something else that is going into the trash. " Not to mention that I then learn that many paper plates have a plastic coating on them that can leech to your food if you heat them in the microwave. I am starting to realize you can become rather irritable over the whole issue.

I got rid of all my ziploc baggies and started storing everything in pyrex and tin foil after learning that using plastic for extreme heating or cooling or any food storage leeches onto the food you eat and is cancer causing. Our refrigerator looked like a shelf in Bed, Bath and Beyond! I was washing more dishes than ever w/ the change over. Oh no! Water wasting!! Not to mention all the time washing - like that is what I want to do all the time.

I finally caved and went on a Ziploc binge! Then I spoke with a dear friend who is way ahead of the curve on all these health/enviro/"green" topics and she talked me down.

I still haven't given up the Ziplocs, I guess it is the rebel in me!

Did I Mention How Great My Husband Is?

The last month has been slightly busy for Art and I.

Art has spent the last few weeks preparing for a trial and then follwed by a week in trial. What that means for Jack, Lily and I is...NO DAD TIME.

It also means waking up alone, going to sleep alone, dinner alone, bed time stories alone.

Not only is it lonely without Art around - it is a lot of extra work. I really appreciate when he comes home at night and takes the kids in the backyard for an hour so I can breathe and whip up some strange and usually unsuccessful concoction for dinner. I love how he always has the coffee hot and ready when I wake up an hour or more later than him. It is not unnoticed or forgotten that most mornings he does the first diaper change and prepares the oatmeal. I don't want to forget to mention that when he gets home for work most nights he lets me sneak off for an hour or more, so that I can get a workout in or some extra work accomplished.

The last month all of these pleasantries were taken away. All these small but "oh so meaningly" acts of kindness were no more. It was a wonderful reminder of how much I appreciate my mate and value his loving gestures. Thank you Artie.

PS I am so glad that trial is over!!

Feeling Guilty

This Sunday morning our doorbell rang at 7:56am and it was one of our darling neighbors... 5 year old Sam asking "Can Lily and Jack come out and play?" Standing in my pajamas just shy of my first cup of coffee...I was totally not prepared for this. Sam has been "knocking" quite a bit this week. He is a doll. I think it is great that he and his two sisters want to play with my little Lily and baby Jack...

BUT- that means that I have to "play" (ie. watch) too!! :)

I was a real trooper this week. Jack, Lily and I, all covered in sunscreen, headed out the front door day after day so that I could watch all five kids play in the front yard in the 90 degree sun. I could feel the brown spots growing on my face that I had worked so hard all winter to fade. I thought to myself 'this is why you have kids when your are young. You don't think about brown spots and and wrinkles and you aren't tired all the time.'

So, this morning when darling Sam arrived I had to think fast. I explained to Sam that we were leaving in a little bit to go to the 'inside playground.' Sam said "Oh, we don't go there." I said "Yes, you are too grown up for that playground."

It wasn't a lie because we really were going there. No matter, I still feel guilty. I wanted to take Jack and Lily to the inside playground because it was nice and cool and I could sit on bench and zone for ONE WHOLE HOUR. Is that awful? Well, if it is or isn't - it definitely is the truth. It is my guilty pleasure. I don't have to worry about pushing swings, getting sand out of eyes, catching them on the slide or anything. For ONE WHOLE HOUR, I can sit there and relax. Then afterwards we get some lunch and a treat and everyone is so happy.

Why do I feel guilty for doing this? I wonder if it means I am slacking? Am I lazy? I don't know...all I know is that I never imagined that one of my guilty pleasures would be sitting at the 'inside playground' at the Paradise Valley Mall.

PS Did I fail to mention how many parents are there with their toddlers? Did I fail to mention how many of them let out big sighs of "ahhhhh" when they sit down next to me and then say "isn't this nice?" :)

Dear Mom: A Mother's Day Diary, Part II

Dear Mom,



You made me. You nurtured me. I can't imagine what life would be like without you. Innately, you're motherly love is the first thing my heart reaches for when I am in need of care or help or empathy. Instinctively, you are the one that comes to mind when I have questions that I do not know the answers. I always think "Mom will know what is the best thing to do."





Though many times I have resisted your guidence, my heart and soul seem to whisper in the background of my conscience "listen to your mother - she is the one person that you know will always want what is best for you."





Now I am a mother to my own children and I am so sorry for all the worry, frustration and concern that I must have caused you to face year after year and issue after issue in my developing years. I roll my eyes when you sarcastically remind me "now it's your turn!" You tell me this as if you find great joy in knowing that I get to experience all the challenges of motherhood. The revenge is sweet for both of us, I suppose.





Here I am forty years old and I find myself making a conscience effort to be more independent of you and trying not to come to you with all my questions and conflicts. Meanwhile, here you are in your sixties and I see you letting go of me more and more each year - allowing me to form my own family dynamic, my own lifestyle....just looking on from a distance while you and dad enjoy the fruits of your years of labor.





My hope is that you are proud of who you nurtured me to be. I am so proud of you and the woman you are today. I want you to know that you are held in my heart and a part of my soul and definitely my conscience! Always.





Love,





Sarah Jane

Featured: Keegan Bracelet

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Emily Center Fashion Show: Phoenix Childrens' Hospital

Saint By Sarah Jane donates Ladybug earring and delicate necklace to the 21st Annual Emily Center Fashion Show.

Fashion show and luncheon take place Saturday, May 8th from 10:30am to 2:00pm at the Arizona Biltmore.

About the Emily Center:

The Emily Center is one of the first hospital-based pediatric family health library's in the country. It has become the southwest's leader in provision of individualized child health information. Materials are available to everyone throughout the state and are free of charge.

For more information about the Emily Center please visit: www.pchemilyfashionshow.com/about.php

To buy tickets for the Emily Center Fashion Show please visit: http://www.emilycenterfashionshow.com/

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Dear Mom: A Mother's Day Diary, Part I

Dear Mom,

There are so many thoughts that come to mind when I think of the many ways you cared for me and shared your motherly love with me in ways that only a mother would.

The summer I was around 8 years old, when you golfed 9 to 18 holes with me every single morning to help me win "Miss Novice Junior." At the end of the summer we learned that I didn't win due to some behind the scenes shinanigans. You gifted me with a trophy engraved "To The Real Miss Novice Junior!" I still have that trophy and the memory.

The time when I came home from school in the fifth grade and was feeling "not so pretty." You laid on my bedroom floor with me and held me while I cried. I will always remember you telling me that I had the most beautiful eyelashes.

The year you sat and watched me evening after evening practice learning a back handspring on a mattress. Then it became back flips, then cheers, debate speeches and forensic speeches).

How you always supported and encouraged my creativity even when you had every right not to!

The first year we started Saint you visited every Neiman Marcus store with me. You also worked in the office and basically ran the production (for several years). I don't know many moms would do that for their daughter.

In my mind you were overly protective of me when I was a teen. Now that I am a mother, I look back and I understand why you set such boundries.

I just want to tell you thanks. These are but a few of many memories I have of you. To this day you are a strong, beautiful, energetic woman and I am so blessed that you are my mom.

Love,

Sarah Jane

Freaky Friday...Errr Wednesday...

Life is strange. Life also plays mind games with you.

My mom showed up at my house this morning in her cute outfit, full of energy and ready to babysit. She and my dad "went out" last night to a party and were going out again tonight.

Meanwhile, I stayed in last night, made dinner and worked in the yard. Tonight I am probably doing some sort of the same version as last night.

Hmmm....last time I checked I was the one wearing cute outfits, babysitting and "going out!"

Talk about a role reversal!

I was standing in the kitchen this morning listening to my cute mom tell me about all the fun she and my dad are having and all the new friends they are meeting - right then and there it struck.

WOW. This is really wierd. Somewhere along the line we flipped lives!

Featured: Allister Bee Extra Large Myrna Hoop Earring, Sterling Silver

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Spring Cleaning (Year Round)

Roll your eyes now and keep reading. I am one of those people who is constantly getting rid of stuff, organizing stuff and cleaning. It makes me feel good.

I can't stand to hold onto something unless I am using it or know for sure that I will in the future.

I just prefer to not save my shoes with dorky heels from passed seasons(incase they come back in style), unsuccessful craft projects, clothes that will never fit again and even if they do I probably wouldn't wear them because I have other things that I like more!

I laugh at a few of my friends (they know who they are) when they say "but this is a classic style!" I reassure them that even though it is classic, they have five just like it and MAYBE they don't need FIVE!!!

Simplify!

Now just by writing "simplify," I will get a nudge from my husband later who doesn't think I know that there is such a word. I can proudly say "He has nooooo idea. If he only knew!"

Many people would say that because it is so easy for me to let go of my "not of the moment " possessions that I am not sentimental, which is far from the truth. I am very sentimental but my sanity is also very important to me. I seem to function better with my work, myself and my family when I don't have cluttered surroundings and my environment is in order. I have tried to let go of this "tidy tendancy" but I have come to the conclusion that if I don't stay the course it will be worse than better for our family unit and all who surround me.

It is more of a challenge to be a "neat freak" when you have two toddlers, but because I have "healthy" compulsive tendencies, I happily take on the challenge. I have slacked quite a bit the last six months....it just gets harder and harder. I pick up the toys - they come back out. I dust bust under the table...we eat, yet AGAIN! Crumbs! Crumbs! OH THE CRUMBS!! I get everyone bathed and dressed - they run through the sprinklers. I have no choice but to cry surrender! My mom came over to babysit last week and the house was a total wreck. I just told her in disgust "Sorry, can't do it. I just cleaned yesterday...just can't do it again...we will have to live like piggies today....I can't do it agaaaaaaaaaaaaain."

So, I have slacked a little lately. I suppose that means my compulsion is waining. I can't figure out if that is good or bad.

All I know is it is Sunday evening and my trunk is full of clothes to donate tomorrow and for more than one reason, it feels really good to let them go.

Collin County Children's Advocacy Center

Saint donates large sterling silver heard of turtles bracelet to the Collin County Children's Advocacy Center in Dallas, Texas.

Event: 2010 Gala, Rock On!

Date: April 24th, 2010

Time: 6pm

Place: Hilton Anatole, Chantilly Room, Dallas, TX

The CCCAC has served 33,000 children since 1992. They offer services to 100% of the children identified with child abuse. The mission of CCCAC is to provide safety, healing and justice to children victimized by abuse or neglect.

To learn more about Collin Count Children's Advocacy Center, please visit their website:

www.cacplano.org

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Walking The Dogs

Saturday morning I arose at 5:40am....ate a banana, put on my exercise clothes, made my "to go" cup of coffee and kissed my husband goodbye. I was off to meet my friend Michelle for some good walking and talking.

I am known for not being a morning person except when I am going walking with Michelle.

Michelle always comes to my house to walk and we will either hike the perserve which is literally our back yard or we will walk the canal. When we walk the canal it is a three hour walk and our turn around point is my favorite place, Starbucks. We load up on a Chai Tea Latte and head on back. It is such a good time!

Typically we do this walk once a week. It is a great time for us to catch up on all that is going on with each other and to just get a good long walking session in. Hit that fat buring zone.

I always prided myself on being a fast walker. Michelle walks fast. Reeeeally fast. WOW.

So you can imagine what it was like when yesterday we had a change of plans and I made the trip to her house to help her walk her FOUR dogs: two huge golden retrievers (Buddy and Brophy), one black labrador (Ty) and the fourth is some kind of mix (Roxy).

OMG.....I am so sore. We walked them for one hour. My thighs are killing me. They drug me here...they pulled me there. They stretched me...they jerked me! They zoomed off erratically with the smell or sight of any bunny, squirrel, bird and dog. It was insane. Dodging other neighbors and their dogs by turning around and going the other way was also part of the program. Saying that I was slightly dizzy from the experience is an understatement! :)

As someone who owns no pets, I have to say that it was a lot of fun - and absolutely hillarious. It is something that my extraordinarily petite friend cannot do all by herself or she will no doubt get into a tangled mess and lose all four dogs. She has shown up on my front porch with road rash one too many times!

Since we were thoroughly warmed up after one hour with the dogs, we took them back to her home and headed back out to Starbucks for our traditional three hour walk. Caught up in all the garage and estate sales in the neighborhood we never made it to Starbucks but Michelle bought a great tuxedo for her son!!

It was a great morning. We got our training in and I was able to spend some special time with a dear friend and her wild but adorable crew!

Fundamental Learning Center

Saint donates Allister Bee Earring and Necklace set to the Fundamental Learning Center of Wichita.

Event: 2nd Annual Garden Party

Date: April 22, 2010

Time: 6:30PM - 9:30PM

Where: Tree Top Nursery

The Fundamental Learning Center provides a continuum of research based instructional programs for teachers and parents as well as for children experiencing difficulty in reading, writing and spelling.

All kids reading ...all kids succeeding is the vision of the Fundamental Learning Center.

For more information about the Fundamental Learning Center or the 2nd Annual Garden Party Please visit:

www.funlearn.org

Cowley County Humane Society

Saint donates Casa Cross Earring and Necklace Set to benefit Cowley County Humane Society.

"Nights In Pawris"

2010 Tasting and Benefit Auction

All proceeds are used to provide shelter, food and care for more than 2500 animals each year. CCHS needs help to keep working toward their mission of finding homes for the adoptable animals they care for on a daily basis.

For more information please visit:

www.cowleycountyhumanesociety.org

What Do Jewelry, Mint Julep and Effortless Style All Have in Common?

The understatement and sophistication of woven patterns has always been a strong draw for me. Woven patterns are a relaxed and timeless asset. I think of woven pieces as I would a great pair of jeans. Saints woven cuffs, earrings, pendants and rings are essential accessories.

For summer, silver wovens are the essence of casual chic. There is no better way to make your shorts, sundresses and flip flops become more style provoking.

As with all Saint collections, our Julep woven collections are all completely handcarved in wax and handmade in the United States. Skilled artisans carve these laboriously time staking patterns.

The Julep woven pattern is inspired by the woven cane chairs my grandma and grandpa used to relax on their porch while my cousin and I would play in the grass. Occasionally, they would be relaxing with a mint julep in the late afternoon while we would chase the fireflies. My grandmother was the essence of Southern beauty and style. When I wear these woven pieces I am reminded of her ability to look effortlessly sophisticated.

Featured: Small & Large Julep Woven Cuffs

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Happy Birthday Aries! Diamonds Are The Gemstone For You!

The month of April brings us the first signs of spring. Like diamonds, we start to see nature awaken and sparkle.

It is no wonder why April's birthstone is the diamond.

Dazzle yourself or someone you love with Saint Diamonds.

It will make you feel oh soooo good.

Featured: Small Betula Diamond Earrings

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

To view more Saint Diamonds: click here.

ROCKO (Relief Outreach Care For Kansans Organization): Jewels of Tasmania - A Mystery Down Under

Saint By Sarah Jane donates a peridot and turtle charm bracelet to "Jewels of Tasmania - A Mystery Down Under."

Proceeds from this event benefit ROCKO: Respite Outreach Care For Kansans.

ROCKO is a non-profit organization founded in 2002 to serve families caring for youth with disabilities. Respite events provide skilled care and enrichment activities addressing the mental, physical, emotional, and social needs of youth. Caregivers are given the opportunity to rejuvenate from the challenges of providing 24 hour care for their loved ones.

More information about ROCKO is available at:

http://www.rockoinc.org/

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Neiman Marcus Trunk Show: Atlanta, Georgia

We invite you to attend a Saint By Sarah Jane Trunk Show at Neiman Marcus Atlanta.

Event Dates: Friday, April 2 through Saturday, April 3rd. 10am to 5pm both days.

Enjoy a wide variety of trunk show peices. Many are one of a kind and can only be purchased during a trunk show event. Allow our Saint representative to educate you on the many stories, meanings and details on the various collections.

Featured: Actress Leslie Fisher wearing Saint By Sarah Jane Devora Bee Ring.

Guadalupe Health Foundation: Midwest Winefest

Saint By Sarah Jane donates a peridot and pink topaz charm bracelet to raise money for The Gaudalupe Health Foundation at The Midwest Winefest.

Retail Value: $695

Date: April 22, 23 and 24th, 2010

To learn more about the Midwest Winefest and to purchase tickets, please click here.

Guadalupe Health Foundation

The Guadalupe Health Foundation is the beneficiary of the Midwest Winefest. It is the foundation's primary fundraising event.


Gaudalupe Clinic

The Guadalupe Clinic is a volunteer organization of doctors, nurses and other health care professionals who donate their time serving the "working poor" of Wichita regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background. In the last year 56,374 medical services, emergency and community services were provided to clients in 21,006 visits. The need and demand for services continues to grow.

Services offered to all patients include physician visits, health screening/education, pregnancy tests, nutrition counceling, assistance with prescription medications, medical equipment, emergency food/clothing and infant formula and diapers. A volunteer corp of 250-plus medical personnel and other join in providing these services.

Guadalupe Clinic received no federal funding or insurance re-imbursement. Clients who can are asked to donate $5, but such monies only represent 2 percent of income.

My Life Is A Musical

I am standing in the kitchen making my kids their predictable mac and cheese entree and I start singing our happy "mac and cheese" song to myself. They aren't even in the room! "Mac and Cheese. Mac mac and cheese. It's mac and cheese!"

My son Jack asks my husband for a piece of banana and before you know it we are all singing "Peace banana. Peace banana. Peace banana. Peace!" We have turned his request into a jingle, as well as a political campaign movement. We have designed a peace sign made out of bananas...all from him wanting a bite of a banana. Everyone wants world peace - right? :)

We sing "die-d-dooh, die-d-dooh. Changa, changa, changa, changa die-d-dooh (Clap! Clap!)"

Then there is "Jackie Joe. Jack, Jack-ie Joe. He's Jackie Joe! Jackie Joe. Jack, Jack-ie Joe. He's Jackie Joe! Jackie Joe. Jack, Jack-ie Joe. He's Jackie Cooooool!" Sadly, Jack's name is not Jackie Joe, but Jack Michael. Jackie Joe just sounds better for the song.

These songs and many more are what lift the moments of tension, tiredness and stress. If we turn our situation into lyrics then we can some how block out the negative and lift everyones spirits. It seems to work in our family.

Imagine if we operated like that in the real world? Having a bad day at the office? Well, let's sing about it! Political issues? Perhaps we should sing our way through it! Can you imagine that? Mad at a family member? Call them up and sing them your feelings! :)

Maybe there is more to music than I realized.

Is The Grass Always Greener?

Obviously, I am still working, however the scope of my job is very limited and I am no doubt a full time mom. Prior to children, my life was Saint; traveling 6 months out of each year, designing, managing, dealing with production issues, marketing, etc... Now my job description is almost exclusively limited to designing at night and during nap times and an occasional P.A. (personal appearance).

Everyone is different when it comes to travel for work. It has its pros and cons. I remember standing in a store promoting and selling my line on December 24th, howling dog tired and from out of no where huge whale tears formed in the corners of my eyes. I was maxed. A sales associate approached me and asked if I was "okay?" We all know when this happens it usually gets worse - not better. She asked what was wrong and I was so embarrassed. I started laughing and said "I am just soooo tired. I am really ready for the season to end."

Saint is a true passion for me but even passions can get the best of you.

Here I am today with a very limited amount of time to dedicate to Saint and unlimited time to family. Some days I yearn to be sitting on a packed airplane where they don't allow you to connect with the ground while airborne. I fantasize about two night stays in a high end chain hotel next to that cities shopping center of choice. I recall the end of the work day mode that encompasses aching, burning feet, people weary brain cells and aaaahhhh the quiet room, clorox white sheets, king size bed, commercial grade carpeting, t.v. and a room service menu. All alone, far away, quiet...and utterly lonely, disconnected and down right miserable at times!

I suppose I have a real love/hate relationship with my old job description. I met some wonderful people and enjoyed delicious restaurants, new cities and I did really enjoy being the spokesperson for my collection. It wasn't all bad! I guess it's complicated...or I am complicated!

Last Saturday I spent the day locally at the Scottsdale Neiman Marcus for a trunk show. It was a wonderful day. I met some wonderful new people and clients as well as some from the past. It was fun to reconnect with the sales associates and basically have a good time. I drove home thinking "What a nice day. However, I am sure excited to get home to my little family!" Upon walking through the door I was greeted with a floor of vomit, sink of dishes, the sprinkler system going berserk in the back yard and no family.

Hmmmm...

Alas, everyone was back in our master bathroom, kids splashing in the tub and Art saying "Oh SJ! What a day!" Right at that moment my mind went to 'quiet room, clorox white sheets, king size bed, commercial grade carpeting, t.v., and a room service menu! All alone, far away, quiet..." :)

Happy Birthday Aries!

Treat yourself to a piece of Saint By Sarah Jane aquamarine jewelry.

Featured: Christina Aquamarine Bee Bracelet
All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

"HONEY BEE" NOW AVAILABLE AT NEIMAN MARCUS

Can You Pick the 2010 Men's NCAA Basketball National Champion?

Pick the team you think will win it all!

Each time that team advances your discount increases.

Provide your National Champion team selection through the contact us form on our website.

Put the team you think will win it all in the message field. Make sure to include your name and email address so we can send you your coupon code.

We will accept team submissions Sunday, March 14 - Wednesday, March 17th. *All coupon codes will be sent prior to the first game on March 18th.

IF YOUR TEAM ADVANCES TO THE:

• 2nd round then your coupon will be worth a 5% discount.


• Round of 16 then your discount will increase to 10%


• Round of 8 then your discount will increase to 20%


• National Semi-finals then your discount will increase to 30%


• National Championship Game then your discount will increase to 40%


• If your team is the National Champion your discount will increase to 50%.

*Only one team submission per customer. If your team is not submitted by 11:59 P.M. CST on March 17th you will not be eligible to participate. All codes will work during the whole tournament, but discount will only increase if your team advances. Please see the coupon activation schedule below.** All codes will expire at 11:59 P.M. CST on 4/11/10. Discount code can not be combined with any other offer or promotion. Some items have limited quantities and will be removed when sold out. Terms and conditions subject to change.

**2nd round then your coupon will be worth 5% off. (Coupon will be active by 11:59 P.M. CST March 19th). Round of 16 then your coupon discount will increase to 10%. (Coupon will be active by 11:59 P.M. March 21st.). Round of 8 then your coupon discount will increase to 20%. (Coupon will be active by 11:59 P.M. CST March 28th). National Championship Game then you discount will increase to 40% (Coupon will be active by 11:59 P.M. CST April 5th). If your team is the National Champion your discount will increase to 50% (Coupon will be active by 11:59 P.M. CST April 5th).

Personal Appearance: Neiman Marcus Scottsdale

Please stop by Neiman Marcus Fashion Square in Scottsdale, Arizona for a Saint By Sarah Jane Personal Appearance and Trunk Show.

Date: Saturday, March 20, 2010

Time: 10am - 5pm

I am really looking foward to spending the day in the store on Saturday. I look foward to seeing some familiar faces and some new ones too!

Expect to see a lot of jewelry!

Large Belmont Pendant

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Coming Clean (And Getting Comfortable)

I was really agitated the other evening at the fact that my husband just assumes that I want to watch ESPN or the NFL channel each night before we go to sleep. I lay there thinking to myself "when we were dating he hardly EVER watched football, let alone in the off season. Why has his interest grown and grown, year after year?"

When I remind him that I don't recall him being much of a tv sports fan while we were dating - he just kind of giggles and says "Oh! I could watch football 24 hours a day! I just love it! When we were dating I didn't want you to think I watched football all the time. I tried to consider you."

Clearly, we are not dating anymore! :)

I distinctly remember myself telling Art that I really am NOT a big shopper. I know I blew my cover on that one not too long after we got home from our honeymoon and every year there after! Ooooopps!

I was thinking about how we are both getting much more comfortable in our marriage. Art does like to watch football and I do like to shop. So why did we down play those interests while we dated? All I can say is that I down played my shopping because I thought it would make him feel more comfortable with me. I mean - I didn't want to scare him off! I would assume Art down played his football for the same reason.

Ironically, by prompting the two things we have down played we have reached a much higher level of comfort!

So we watch our football (off season, on season, sports talk, or any type of game with a ball or a puck that we can get our hands on) and I am still considered "a shopper," however that is a solo sport.

The funny part is that I do like football! I don't want to watch it everyday - but I certainly like the game a lot and love having it on in our home. One of the reasons I like it is because Art likes it.

Now if I can get Art to like shopping! :)

Sir Sheldon Silver Turtle Ring

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Neiman Marcus Trunk Show: Plano, Texas

Saint By Sarah Jane Trunk Show: Neiman Marcus Willowbend /
Plano, TX

Dates: March 12 & 13
Times: 10am - 5pm
Location: Designer Jewelry

Please stop in and view our traveling trunk show package with exclusive designs and many one-of-a-kind styles. Meet Saint representative Sara Getchell. She will be there both days to help you with all your Saint wants and needs.

Otis Samoa Friendship Earrings
All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010

Just Like a Dude

Our 19 month old son Jack is 15.5 months younger than our daughter, Lily. The dynamics of their relationship is something that my husband and I have taken quite an interest in.

It is amazing what a difference each month makes in maturity (or in this case, I should say immaturity). The last few months Lily has become very aggressive with Jack. She steam rolls him, grabs anything and everything out of his hands and loves to tell him what to do.

It is very frustrating watching these episodes. I find myself continually repeating myself, trying to impliment positive relationship skills between the two of them. I feel like a broken record. Share. Please shaaaaaare...PLEASE SHARE (&^%&^%#&%@)!!!

Such a simple concept for a 40 year old....not so simple for a three year old.

When Lily starts picking on Jack - he clearly doesn't like it. He will do battle with her for a few rounds then he just takes off on his own to another room. He just dismisses himself and finds somewhere else to play without all the shenanigans. It really is something to watch.

I can't help but find my heart privately going out to Jack. 'Poor guy - can't he just hold the darn "Thumbalina" doll for a minute?'

I smirk because the times that my husband Art and I don't seem to be "jiving, " he will just kind of disappear into his Martian cave...keeping things on the down low. It still drives me crazy when he goes caveman on me - but after watching Jack in action with Lily, I have a much better understanding for his retreat. I also can't help but wonder what shenanigans I am pulling to send him away! :)

While at the playground last week Jack approached a little girl to play. She totally blew him off. I caught it on video and his composure once again melted my heart.

He just picked himself up and moved on down the road. Who needs it? Right?

Jack, you are one cool dude.

"Loving My Frosted Bees!"

This month we are releasing a new collection of frosted bees at Neiman Marcus. The shipment is a wide assortment of all sterling silver bees with a beautiful frosted finish. These frosted bees are available in every size with and without diamonds.

I have been wearing my "B.O.B." (Big Ole Bee) frosted bee earrings for the last six months and I absolutely LOVE them. I seem to grab for them almost everyday. They are a great scale and the frosted finish with diamonds makes them very easy to wear w/ my "lovely mom sweats", jeans or work attire.

I love them so much that I dare to post a photo of myself wearing them!!

B.O.B. (Big Ole Bee) Sterling Silver and Diamond Earrings

All designs copyright Saint, Inc. 2010