Crystal B's Ideas and Giveaways

Winner of the Cutting Board

2011-12-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

The Random Number Generator has spoken.
The winner of the cutting board is entry #25

Our Little Family

Send me an email with your address and I'll get this right out to you!
crystalbeutler@msn.com

Holiday Giveaway #1

2011-12-04T23:06:00.000-08:00

It's December!
Wow this year just flew by.
It seems like only yesterday that I was wandering through the streets of France eating Eclaires. {sigh}

To celebrate the season, I'm hosting a few giveaways this month!!
Yes, I said "a few."
Exciting huh!!

Today I'm giving away a product to promote a good cause.

This beautiful high grade cutting board is manufactured in Honduras at a small factory called GiveBack Products. If you shop at Pottery Barn, West Elm or Williams Sonoma, you may have see them there.
Each board is made from felled trees from the Rain Forest. {By felled, I mean that the trees were destroyed in hurricanes.}

I have one of these boards at home and I love using it for 6 great reasons:

1. I feel a lot better about cutting my food on a natural board as opposed to plastic products, which studies are showing may be a cause a cancer.

2. It's easy to clean, and disinfect with a swipe of vinegar diluted in water. I keep it on hand in a spray bottle -- it works great on counters too.

3. My knives stay sharper.

4. The product is Earth Friendly -- reclaimed wood, that won't sit in a landfill when it is no longer in use.

5. The proceeds from each sale of GiveBack Products is used to help improve the living conditions of individual families in Honduras. They have an amazing program that is changing the lives of the families who work or live near the factory. You can read all about the specifics on the GiveBack blog, and I hope you do because it might compel you to buy one of their products for someone on your Christmas List. Enter this discount code at the time of checkout and you will get 25% off your order as well as free shipping!!! The code: crystalb12

Here's how to enter the giveaway:

This giveaway is open to anyone living in the United States.
It begins today and ends Wednesday, December 7, at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
The winner will be announced Thursday morning, December 8 at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.

You can enter up to four times:

1) Leave a comment in the comment section with your name.

2) If you Twitter, tweet about GiveBack Products http://www.givebackchopblocks.blogspot.com. Come back here and let us know what said.

3) Like" Giveback Products on Facebook and help spread the word about their great products, and good works. Come back here and let us know you "liked" Giveback.

4) Visit my blog or facebook page and become a follower -- (that's where I mention giveaways, and discounts for my online store.) Come back here and let us know.

Good luck!!

400th Post Giveaway Winner

2011-10-31T12:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting this morning. I had computer issues.

The random number generator has selected the following entry number as our winner .....

#65

Kelly Moody!

Congratulations Kelly. Shoot me an email with your address will you?

I'll be giving away one of my new creations on November 10th. Check back then and enter to win!

400th Post - Giveaway

2011-10-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

I'm celebrating my 400th post on my blog today!
Not this blog, my other blog -- the one where I actually write stuff.

I'm giving away one of my new creations and a few surprises as well . . .

A flower cuff!!
These look so great with sweaters.
I don't even have them listed in my Etsy shop yet!

Do you want one???

Here's how to enter:

This giveaway is open to anyone living in the United States.
It begins today and ends Sunday, October 30th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
The winner will be announced Monday morning, October 31st at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.

You can enter up to three times:

1) Leave a comment in the comment section with your name. If you Twitter, tweet about Crystal B Handmade at http://www.crystalb.org

2) Visit my blog and become a follower -- (that's where I mention giveaways, and discounts for my Etsy shop.)

3) Visit my Etsy shop, and pin one of my creations on your Pinterest boards, or "like" it on Facebook, then come back here to let me know what you pinned, or liked.

Good luck my friends!

P.S. Free shipping in my shop today for all purchases over $20.00.
At the time of checkout, enter the code: 400post

Winner of the Crystal B Jewelry Giveaway

2011-10-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

The random number generator has declared a winner:

#14 Chelsea

Chelsea, you have two days to contact me at crystalbeutler@msn.com to claim your prize.

Thanks for playing everyone! Check back next week. I'm going to give away a pair of aqua blue earrings -- just cuz you asked.

By the way, I think you should link up to my Inspired by Pinterest linky party on Thursday. It's over here.

Crystal B Jewelry Giveaway

2011-10-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I ran away from home.
Well, I didn't really run away,
I went to Kansas to visit Meg, Kim and Ashley for Craft Weekend.

It was awesome.
Holed up in a house for 2 days
crafting
eating,
laughing
creating,
with 12 strangers who in the end
became friends.

If you ever get the chance, you should run away to Kansas too. A little birdie told me that the next Craft Weekend is in the planning phases.

In honor of the weekend, I'm giving away a pair of earrings!

Cute huh!
You need a pair.
You do!

Here's how to enter:

This contest is open to anyone living in the United States.
This giveaway begins today and ends Sunday at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
The winner will be announced Monday morning at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.

You can enter up to three times:

1) Leave a comment in the comment section with your name.

2) Visit my blog and become a follower -- that's where I mention giveaways, and discounts to my Etsy Shop.

3) Visit my Etsy shop, then come back here and leave a comment telling me what you would like me to give away next month.

Good luck my friends!

Make Your Own Table Talk Game

2011-09-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

Did you know that several studies have found that there are fewer than twenty minutes a day of conversation between parents and children -- if you subtract talking that has to do with a command or criticism. Twenty minutes. That's not much is it?

To start opening lines of communication in your family, try playing the Table Talk game at the dinner table. Ask open-ended questions to get your children talking at length rather than answering in one syllable answers. Within a few weeks or months, your children will be used to talking to you and it won't be as hard to communicate with them.

Because Table Talk is a game, there are rules -- rules that help family members become better communicators. The rules are simple, everyone at the table gets a turn to ask a question, everyone at the table gets to give an honest answer without being interrupted or embarassed, and everyone listens to the person who is speaking. Anyone who interrupts more than once must skip a turn to ask a question.

Here are a list of questions for conversation with kids, feel free to make up your own, or you can purchase a Table Topics game online.

What world record would you like to hold?

If you could be driving any car right now, which car would you choose?

What is your all time favorite vacation?

Would you rather see a movie, a parade, or a magic show?

What makes you feel better when you are sick?

If you wanted to earn $50, how would you like to earn the money?

What's your favorite board game?

What object would you like to be able to draw really well?

If you could be a superhero, which special power would you choose to have.

Tell us the five best things about you.

If you could invite anyone in the world to eat dinner at your house, who would you choose?

Why do kids put rings in their eyebrows and nose?

If you could choose to vegetables that you never had to eat again, which two would you choose?

Who do you think I'd rather you be: an NBA ballplayer, the mayor, a famous explorer, or a movie star? Why?

Which of your friends do you think your parents like the most? Why?

On a scale of one to nine – one being not at all and nine being totally – how strict are your parents? Where on the scale would you like them to be? (Parents: you can draw this on paper to make it easier for smaller children.)

What would be the ideal allowance? How would you use it.

Who was the worst teacher you ever had? Tell me why.
What would the ideal teacher be like?

If you had to have one of these, which would pick – and why? Really long nose hairs, hair in your ears, hair above your lip, massively hairy armpits!

How much privacy would you like? What time of the day would you like to be alone, and why?

If you could arrange it, what time would your mom or dad come home from work? Then, what would you do together?

Can you think of any clothes that your parents should never put on again? Why?

Have your parents ever embarrassed you? If so, what did they do?

Which of the following choices do you think would be best, and why?

Dinner with everyone at the table and the TV on with your favorite program
Dinner in which everybody took what they wanted from the fridge and no one had the same thing
Dinner with the whole family together and no TV on

If a genie would give you only one wish, which would you pick, and why?

being world-class attractive

being a genius
being famous for doing something great

If you are feeling sad, what meal would be the one that would cheer you up?

Are you afraid when flying in an airplane? If so, why?

Tell me who you think are the three greatest musicians in the world? Why?

What punishment have your parents given you that you thought was really unfair? Why?

If you could change three things about yourself, what would they be?

At what age do you think a child ought to be tried as an adult if he has hurt someone very badly? Why?

If you could keep your room any way you wanted, how would it look?

How much money could you use a week? Why?

What kinds of lies do your friends tell their parents?

What are the qualities that make a good friend?

Do you think you should be paid for specific chores? Which ones? And how much do you think each is worth?

What was your favorite toy when you were little?

What do you say to comfort yourself when something scares you (like when a plane is bumpy, or when you are in a scary place)?

What do you think makes a person good-looking?

What would you do if you saw a group of guys who looked like a gang walking toward you?

If you could decorate our house, what would it look like?

What do you think of your mom's driving? Of dad's driving?

Looking at your pictures. When you think you have been the cutest so far?

What do you think are the characteristics that make a good parent?

Name the three movie stars you most admire.

Have you ever imitated something you saw in a movie? What was it?

Name a TV or movie star that you think is lame.

Do you think it's important to get physical education in school? Why or why not?

What is the most enjoyable thing our family has done together in the last three years?

Do you think that kids as young as twelve can fall in love? If not, at what age do you think that happens?

What do you think is beyond the stars?

What is the nicest thing a friend has ever done for you?

Why do you, or don't you, like violent movies?

Name two things we should do as a family on the weekend.

How do you think kids are affected by divorce?

Do I ever not notice that you are sad? What signs should I look for?

What sport (that you haven't tried) do you think you would be good at? Why?

Who is the meanest kid you know? Why?

What do you think Heaven is like?

If you were going to have a weird, unusual pet, what would it be? Why would you want that pet?

If you could look like anyone, who would it be? Why?

Do you think "honesty is always the best policy"? Why or why not?

What have you done, in school or sports or anywhere, that you are especially proud of?

Do you think girls look better with or without makeup? Why?

Do you think it's bad, okay, or good for guys to cry at movies? Why?

Which of your friends are you proudest of? Why?

Have you ever had a dream that really scared you? What was it about?

Can you describe the most beautiful place you have ever visited?

What kinds of things on TV and in movies make you laugh?

Tell me about your two favorite movies of all time and why you like them so much.

How do you describe your mom to your friends? Your dad?

Do you feel you are as intelligent as most of your friends? Why or why not?

What is the scariest movie you've ever seen? Why?

Have you ever gotten really lost? If so, tell me about it. How did you feel?

How much TV a day do you think a kid should watch?

At what age, if any, do you think a kid should be able to watch any program no matter what is in it?

Do you think you live in a dangerous neighborhood? Why or why not?

Not counting our religion, which religions do you find interesting? Why?

Tell me what you think is good, or bad, about rap music.

Do you ever feel you could lose your temper so badly that you could hurt someone? If so, what has made you feel like that?

What is the grossest thing you can think of?

Is there anybody in history that you have read about that you would like to be?

What do you think is the right age for marriage? Why?

Tell me three things you remember about kindergarten.

What kids are popular in your grade? What do you think makes a person popular?

Has anyone ever tried to sell you drugs? If so, what did you say to that person?

If you knew a friend of yours had stolen something, what would you do about it?

Do you feel close to any of your grandparents, aunts, or uncles? If so, to whom do you feel closest?

What paper have you written that you really felt proud of? Tell me about it.

If you could trade lives with somebody you know, who would it be?

How do you think you would feel if you thought you were going to be the first person to meet someone from outer space? What would you say or ask?

What would you do if you were invisible for a day?

What is your very earliest memory as a very little kid?

If you had to go live with another family, who would you choose?

When have you been most proud of your mom? Your dad?

Is there anything you pretend you understand, but you really don't? What is it?

Who do you think you are most like in our family? Why?

Do you believe men and women are equally smart? Why or why not?

Do you ever have a dream that comes back over and over? If so, what is it like?

Why do you think some people don't like animals?

What kind of person should be President of the United States?

Why are sports so important to kids?

Is it more fun to be a parent or a child?

What's your favorite family tradition?

Would you rather live a week in the past, or the future?

Which famous athlete would you most love to meet?

Is it harder for your to eat healthy, or get exercise?

What family or school rule would you most like to change?

Who are your closest friends, and what do you enjoy about them?

What do you like to think about while gazing at the clouds?

What is the best way to cool off on a hot day?

Did you ever try to sell lemonade as a kid? What to you remember about it?

What entertainer would you most like to hear while picnicking at a summer concert?

Have you ever been to sleep away camp? What do you remember about it?

If you could only choose one companion for a grueling backpacking trip, who would you take?

Ike & Co. Giveaway Winner

2011-03-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those who participated in the Ike & Co. Giveaway. I hope that you will spread the word about Angie's great shop and blog on Facebook.

The lucky winner of the $20.00 gift certificate is entry No. 7 -- Deserae of Toole, Utah.

Congratulations Deserae, you have until Saturday night to contact me at crystal beutler@msn.com

Check back next week. I'll be on Spring Break with my kids and I need to celebrate!!

Giveaway - Introducing Ike & Co.

2011-03-22T23:15:00.000-07:00

Friends, I have good news and bad news.

The bad news is that I am so busy, I have no time to create, or post, or host a giveaway. I'm trying to get my house ready to put up for sale, and I need to finish my tax return. Agh.

The good news is that I have a great friend whom I met a few years ago in cyber space. She has an amazing Etsy shop, and a very whitty blog. She recently revamped both and gave them a fresh new look, which I am just crazy about. To celebrate, Angie offered to give something away to my subscribers. How nice is that. That's Angie for you -- super nice, and super cool.

Drum roll please ..........

Introducing Life With Ike, a witty blog that I love reading, and Ike & Co. a shop full of funky, hip, colorful jewelry. See for yourself, it's mighty cute stuff.

Angie is giving away a $20.00 give certificate. That means you get to pick out anything you want. Cool huh! Now you can browse through your closet and see which outfit might need a little something.

Here are the rules:

This contest is open to anyone over the age of 18. It begins today, and ends Friday, March 25th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time at which time I will select one winner using a random number generator. The winner has until Sunday, March 27th to claim their prize or a new winner will be selected.

You can enter up to three times by doing the following:

1. Visit Ike & Co. and mark Angie as a favorite. While you are there, take a look around and pick out something for your wish list. I can tell you that I am wishing for some of the brilliant red tear drop earrings. Perfect for my new summer outfits. Come back here and leave the comment "Favorite."

2. Leave a comment here with your name, and an item you that you wish to win from Ike & Co.

3. Follow Angie's blog, Life with Ike. She really is hilarious. I guarantee that you will become a regular. Then come back here and leave a comment that says "Following Blog."

Good luck everyone!

Help for Japan -- In Honor of Preston and Ami.

2011-03-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

Last week my cousin sold his house, quit his job, and got on a plane headed for Toyko, Japan to be with his girlfriend Ami. The plane landed 15 minutes before the quake. My family spent the next 48 hours wondering if we would ever see him again. It was a time for pleading prayers. As I watched the images on television they weren't about people in a land far away, they were happening to someone I personally knew, and love. I got a small taste of what thousands of others must be feeling on a much deeper level.

Two days after the quake, modern miracles allowed Preston to see, and talk to his mom via Skype. It was such a relief to know that he, Ami and her family are doing ok. But, ok, is not fine. Ok is not well. They are surrounded by grief, rubble, and nuclear power plants in trouble. They need our help.

So rather than sitting back thinking about how glad I am that this isn't happening to me, I am changing my state of mind. I am thinking about how I can make a difference. Hence this post, in honor of Preston, Ami, and all those who are suffering right now in Japan.

I am selling these beautiful little earrings made with Japanese fresh water pearls and aged brass findings for $12.00. I will personally donate all the proceeds from the sale of these earrings to LDS Philanthropic Services, a charity that provides humanitarian aid all over the world. But in this case, the money will go to aid Japan. You should know that I chose this charity because they do not use any of the money donated to cover administrative costs -- all of it goes to charity.

It's a win/win for all of us. You get earrings, we both get to help, and the people of Japan receive aid.

If you would like a pair, click on the Pay Pal button below.

Spread the word. Tell your friends about this post on Facebook, and Twitter. You can paste this link in your message and it will bring them here. http://www.beutlerlife.blogspot.com

If you would prefer to make a direct donation to LDS Philantrhopic Services (Humanitarian Services) you can do so my clicking here. You can specify in the comment section that you would like the money to go directly to aid Japan.

P.S. As of 3/20, our collective efforts have contributed $170.00 to aid Japan. Thank you friends. Every little bit helps. Imagine what would happen if every able adult in the United States gave up lunch 1 day a month and sent $5.00 to their favorite charity. Wouldn't it be amazing.

Bummer about the Share and Steal

2011-03-06T20:14:00.001-08:00

Sorry guys. We didn't get enough entries for the Share and Steal. Not even close!!! I'll try it again next month.

Share and Steal, What a Deal!!!!

2011-03-03T18:14:00.000-08:00

I've been a busy beaver these past few weeks. I'm making all sorts of new things for Spring. To celebrate the fact that I was focused long enough to make a bunch of jewelry whilst getting my house ready to put for sale, I decided to hold a Share and Steal. Here's how it works:

I will offer 2 “thieves” a chance to “steal” (purchase) a custom vintage button necklace of my choice for $5, including shipping. As I said before this is NOT a giveaway but a fun little way for someone to get a unique piece of jewelry at a ridiculous price -- the button necklaces sell for $45.00.

Share this link: http://www.crystalb.etsy.com on your blog, fan page, twitter etc. Then come back here and let me know (in one post) what you did and how you did it. Only one post per person allowed. You must be a fan of Crystal B on facebook in order to purchase. You can become a fan by clicking on the button below.

crystal b. handcrafted jewelry

Promote Your Page Too

You have 48 hours (until noon, Saturday, March 5th) and there needs to be at least 100 participants in order for Share and Steal to happen. So if in 48 hours only 98 different people have shared, then it will be canceled. I will post the “thieves” by noon cst on Sunday, March 6th at 4:00 Pacific Standard Time). You will have until noon on Monday, March 7th to email me otherwise an alternate will be chosen. Be sure to spread the word and the love. Feel free to grab a Crystal B button and add it to your website or blog.
Let the “stealing” begin!!
xo

Crystal

P.S. If you make a purchase in my Etsy shop on or before March 5th, your shipping is free. Enter this discount code at the time of check out: buddy

Holiday Winners

2010-11-18T16:58:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in posting the winners!!!!!! I was so caught up in getting ready for the Harry Potter premier that I forgot.

Ok, this week's winners are . . . .

#13 Deserae Fiedler and #91 Natasha!!

Send me an email girls to claim your prizes. crystalbeutler@msn.com

Thanks so much for playing everyone!!! I'll be posting a new giveaway after Thanksgiving. Be on the lookout.

Holiday Giveaway

2010-11-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

I'm finally done with all my holiday boutiques!!!! Whew, I'm glad it's over. Now I can focus on Thanksgiving!

Last month, I asked you to tell me what I should list for my next giveaway and the most popular answer was . . . "These red earrings would look so cute for the holidays!"

So, I'm listening! I'm going to give away a pair of these earrings and a bobbi pin to two lucky winners!

Are you excited??? I hope so. Here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Wednesday, November 17th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Thursday, November 18th. The winner must notify me by Saturday, November 20th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name (and sign up to follow along if you want to know about future giveaways and discounts.)

Entry #2: Visit my recipe blog, and tell me which recipe you would like to try for Thanksgiving dinner. Then come back here write in the comment section "I would like to try . . . . "

Entry #3: Tell me what you are doing for Thanksgiving! And if that's too boring, then tell me your favorite Thanksgiving Dish. Mine is 2nd dinner which is around 11:00 p.m. when we break out all the left overs and make sandwiches. Is that weird, or does anyone else do that??

Good luck everyone!

Winners of the 200th Post Giveaway

2010-10-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all your comments!! I know what I'm giving away in November and December!

And now for the winners . . . .

The random number generator has selected the following:

Entry number 174 - Amber King has won the cameo earrings, and

Entry number 277 Blueeyedboys has won the necklace!

Congratulations! Make sure you email me with your name and address before Thursday evening. crystalbeutler@msn.com

Thanks for playing everyone! Check back on October 30th -- I'm doing a Halloween giveaway.

My 200th Post Giveaway!!

2010-10-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

I'm celebrating today. Want to know why? I wrote my 200th blog post last week, and that my friends is cause for celebration. Two hundred posts! I didn't think I had it in me!

So here's what I'm going to give away to two lucky winners . . . .

One winner will receive this beautiful necklace from my Etsy shop. Perfect "go-to" necklace if you ask me.

And there other winner will receive some lovely cameo earrings.

Are you excited??? I hope so. Here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Tuesday, October 20th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Wednesday, October 21st. The winner must notify me by Friday, October 23rd by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name (and sign up to follow along if you want to know about future giveaways.)

Entry #2: Visit my blog, mark me as a follower, and read one of my 200 blog posts. Then come back here write in the comment section: "Following the Blog". If you are already following, write: "Already a Follower of the Blog."

Entry #3: I'm being featured in a holiday magazine that comes out this month!! Yes, I really am -- Matthew Meade Holiday!! (Ok, it's a little feature, but hey!! It's a feature!!) Visit my Etsy shop and take a look around. Come back here and tell me what you think I should give away next month in celebration of the Holiday magazine feature!

Good luck everyone!!!!!

P.S. I give away stuff often, so you should come back often. Yes, you should!!!

Mark Your Calendars

2010-10-13T14:10:00.001-07:00

It's that time again -- holiday season is right around the corner. I don't know about you, but I'm already thinking about my Christmas list and all the other things that come with November and December.

If you live in Southern California, you need to come to this boutique! It's going to be amazing with lots of fun, handmade gifts. And, I'm going to be there, so even if you don't find something you want to buy, we can visit!

I might even give you some treats!!!!!

Put it on your calendar!!! Queen Bee Market at the Hilton Hotel in Del Mar, California. November 12th and 13th.

Necklace Giveaway

2010-09-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm giving away one of these today.

But not on this site. Visit My Giveaway Today if you would like to enter to win.

Good luck!!!

Autumn Giveaway Winner

2010-09-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

I loved reading about all the cool costume ideas!!

The winner of the giveaway is number 13 -- Samantha C!

Congratulations, you winner you.

Send me an email to claim your prize. crystalbeutler@msn.com

It's Autumn Giveaway

2010-09-08T20:51:00.000-07:00

I walked out the door this morning and the air was cool! Could it be that the dreaded heat wave of September and October is going to pass by Temecula this year? Will we actually get to celebrate Fall? That's a reason to have a giveaway!!!

I've been super busy this past month making lots of new stuff for my Etsy shop. I think someone needs to win my new favorite pair of earrings . . . .

These go with EVERYTHING! I made them with giant fresh water pearls and chandelier crystals.

Want a pair??? Well get busy and enter to win!

Here are the rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Sunday, September 12th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Monday, September 13th. The winner must notify me by Wednesday, September 15th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name (and sign up to follow along if you want to know about future giveaways.)

Entry #2: Visit "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, and sign up to follow me. Then write in the comment section: "Following". If you are already following, write: "Already a Follower."

Entry #3: I know it's only September, but I'm already thinking about Halloween. Leave a comment and tell me about your favorite Halloween costume. My absolute favorite is princess gown I found in my grandmother's dress up closet. I begged her to let me wear it on Halloween and I don't think I took it off until Christmas. My other favorite was when I went as a box of doughnuts in college. Eight of us made doughnuts out of life preservers and stood inside a giant box. It was an award winner.

Good luck!!

You Need This.

2010-08-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

I am a lover of cookbooks. So much so, that I have been known to take them on vacation as reading material. Just ask my cousins. We poured over cookbooks every time we took a Lake Powell vacation when we were young and unattached.

This is my all time favorite cookbook.

It's is a church cookbook compiled by women who live in Temecula, California. Anyone who loves to cook will tell you that church cookbooks (and Jr. League cookbooks) are the best. Well, this one . . . it's the best of the best. I'm telling you, there are some amazing home chefs here, and they have shared their secret recipes with the world.

I've given this cookbook to family and friends and every one of them says "Thanks for sending me this book!!! It's the only one I ever use now." I have to agree. It's my go-to book and it never lets me down.

Well, this is your lucky day, because guess what, we are reprinting the cookbook and adding more of our favorite recipes! (Thank you Julie P. for taking this on again.) At last count there were 1200 recipes and they are still coming in.

You want one? Maybe you even need some for your family and friends for Christmas, or a new bride, or a child going away to school!

If you are interested in placing an order, look no further, you can buy it here. But remember orders will not ship until the first week in November.

The cost listed below includes shipping and Paypal fees.

All proceeds from the sale will be donated to the young women of our church to help them pay for girl's camp.

You need this cookbook. Even if you are a beginner, you will love it just as much as an expert chef. Just ask my kids. They use it all the time too.

If you have an old copy, or buy a new one, leave your testimonial in the comment section below. Let us know which recipes you like most!!

August 6th Giveaway

2010-08-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!!

On Friday, August 6th, I'm giving away a pair of earrings, but not on my blog. Visit my friend Rie if you want to enter to win! Click on her button below!

So Cute

2010-08-03T18:10:00.001-07:00

I am lovin' this nautical alphabet poster. I had to buy one, even though I don't have little kids. But I have someone in mind who will love it.

Sometimes I do that -- buy things and then find someone who can use it.

Do you love it too? Well, I know where you can get one.

Click here.

Winner of Vacation Getaway

2010-08-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

I'm home!! Sorry I was delayed in posting the winner. I have jet lag, and I have it bad!!! Bermuda is amazing by the way. I'll be writing about it on my blog this week in case you are interested.

O.K., enough suspense. The random number generator has spoken. And the lucky blogger who gets a Crystal B gift certificate is:

Number 80 .........

Snowflake07

Congratulations, you winner you! Email me at crystalbeutler@msn.com by 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 5th to claim your prize.

Vacation Giveaway

2010-07-20T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I just realized that title is a bit misleading!! I'm not giving away a vacation -- I'm going on a vacation.

I'm leaving this Friday to BERMUDA!!!!! How lucky is that -- the whole trip is free thanks to our friend Clarence and sky miles. I'll be thinking of you as I bask in the sun. And be thinking of me as I take a red-eye flight and sit for 5 hours in an airport layover in the middle of the night. (Traveling tip: Never, and I mean never let your husband book the flights!).

Before I go, I want to host a giveaway. This time .... I'm giving away a gift certificate so you can pick what YOU want, or you can give it to someone else. How does that sound????

The gift certificate is in the amount of $32.00, which should pay for a necklace, or a pair of earrings or some hair pins. You get to pick!!!

Here are the rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Saturday, July 31st at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Sunday, April 18th. The winner must notify me by Monday, August 2nd by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name (and sign up to follow along if you want to know about future giveaways.)

Entry #2: Visit "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, and sign up to follow me. Then write in the comment section: "Following". If you are already following, write: "Already a Follower."

Entry #3: I need help picking a menu for my book club. I'm hosting soon and need to plan a brunch. Visit my recipe blog and then come back here and leave a comment telling me what you think I should serve.

Good luck everyone!

Prom Birthday Party

2010-06-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

When Claire was 8, we had a "prom" birthday party. It was one of the funnest parties we've ever had. I wrote about it today on my family blog. I had several people ask me what we did for the party, so here it goes. I'll post more pictures later, but I think you will get the gist of it, without.

This party was time intensive, and it cost a bit of money so we only invited 6 girls. You could cut the cost by modifiying some of the activities, or if you asked each girl to come dressed for a prom. We provided outfits, which was the take home gift.

Invitation:

We made a wrist corsage for each girl with 1 inch ribbon and artificial flowers that we purchased from Walmart. We hot glued the flowers onto the ribbon and placed it in a plastic container that we bought at our local grocery store. We went to the bakery department and bought the small clear plastic containers they use for salads. It looks just like the container used by a florist when they package a live flower corsage. We filled the container with shredded green paper and placed the corsage on top along with the invitation.

I can't remember the exact wording we used on the invitation. I think it all rhymed. But I know it included the following information:

Miss Claire B is turning 8, we're having a Prom to Celebrate!

Date
Time
Place

Don't fret at all about what to wear, we'll do your makeup, and style your hair.

Come prepared to dine and dance! You'll have a date that's coming from France!

This corsage is for you to wear on your wrist, the night of Prom, that can't be missed!

Hope you can come! R.S.V.P. 304-1111

Preparation:

I called each of the moms and explained what we would be doing at the party -- some of them were worried that I was really planning to invite boys who would be their actual date.

I made each girl a prom outfit. I made a skirt out of gathered tulle sewn on wide ribbon. I made a top out of tank tops I bought for $2.00. I couldn't find a color to match the tulle, so I had to dye the tank tops. If I had planned a-head, I would have been on the hunt for these earlier to avoid dying. I used discount coupons to buy the tulle and the ribbon. You need about 3 yards of tulle for each skirt you make. If you want to know I how I sewed these, email me. They are really easy.

I made a prom date for each girl out of brooms I purchased at the dollar store. I spray painted the top of the broom brown to look like hair. I painted the eyes, nose and mouth with acrylic paint. I made a bow-tie for each of the brooms. You can use 2 inch wide ribbon. Make sure you glue it in place so it doesn't come untied.

I called a few teenage girls and asked them if they would help me at the party. I needed them to do hair and makeup. They were willing to help me at no cost because they had to fulfill community service hours for school. (The teenagers in our school district are required to perform 10 hours of community service each year.)

I made an easy dinner. If you don't like to cook, make spaghetti, or something in a crock pot that you can make earlier in the day.

Buy some little elastics, combs, hair spray, plastic flowers, and other items for doing "up-do" hair styles. I also had some curling irons. (The teenagers can bring their irons if they have one.)

Here's what the party entailed:

1. A visit to the Beutler Beauty Salon for a hair style and make-up. (40 minutes)

2. A visit to the Beutler Boutique for a prom dress. I had each outfit hanging on a white plastic hanger with a cute name tag tied with ribbon. The girls hung their street cloths on the hangers and and I put them in the closet for they wouldn't lose anything. (10 minutes)

3. Once they were all ready, I had all the girls go into a room where their dates were waiting for them. They were all really nervous because they thought real boys were coming to the party. They laughed really hard when they saw the broom boys. I gave each of the broom boys a name and made introductions as I handed each girl a broom. I said something like: "Claire, I would like you to meet Armond. Armond loves skateboarding, knitting pot holders with his grandmother, and making shoes out of gopher hides." (10 minutes)

We drove the girls to a place in our neighborhood where everyone goes to have their pictures taken at prom. We took a picture of each girl with her broom date, as well as pictures of the group. This part was really fun. The girls loved posing with their brooms. (30 minutes)

We drove back to our house and went into our dining room where the girls had a fancy dinner. We pretended it was a restaurant and my husband and I were the waiters. We served them little steaks, mashed potatoes, fruit, a roll, and a little salad. We bought the little mini steaks at Walmart. I think they were about $10.00 for a pack of 8. Surprisingly, the girls loved this part and they were all so well behaved and they even ate all of their food! (20 minutes)

After dinner, we went outside on our patio and had a dance. The girls danced for about 20 minutes. I took movies of this part. It was hilarious.

After the dance, we went to a 50's diner and had milk shakes. They took their broom dates. Claire opened presents at the diner. (1 hour) If you didn't want to do this, you could have cake and ice cream at home. But, we thought it would be fun to go somewhere so they could show off their outfits and dates. They LOVED this. Everyone at the diner came up and asked them what they were doing.

We had all the parents come to the diner to pick up the girls.

Thank you notes - Claire gave each girl a prom picture along with a thank you note.

If you end up having a party like this, send me a picture!!!! I'd love to see how it all turns out!

Winner of the School's Out Giveaway

2010-06-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

Do you want to know the best part about giving something away? The comments. I just love the things you write -- especially this time. I loved reading about what everyone is going to do this summer. It was so diverse. Thanks so much for playing. I wish I could give a prize to every single person who played. If I didn't have to pay for postage .... sigh.

Ok, the Random Number Generator has selected entry number 130 ....

Rosalee Dougal!!

Congratulations you lucky girl you! Please email me at crystalbeutler@msn.com before Monday to claim your prize.

Check back in a couple of weeks, I'll be giving away a new creation that you are going to want.

School's Out Giveaway

2010-06-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

I'm in countdown mode. Three more days until school is out. Three more days. I can hardly wait.

I think you should count down with me, so I'm having a giveaway that will last, three, count 'em, three days.

Here's what I'm giving away:

A flower ring!!

I'm not sure which ring I'm going to send you. It will be a surprise. But, it will look something like this one. Cute huh!

Here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Sunday, June 13th 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Monday, June 14th. The winner must notify me by Tuesday, June 15th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

Entry #2: Visit "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, and sign up to follow me. Then come back here and leave a comment "following". If you are already following, write: "Already a Follower."

Entry #3: Leave a comment and let me know what you plan to do this summer. I'm going to Bermuda, can you believe it! I can't. (We got free tickets.)

Good luck everyone!

Winner of the Clark Couture Giveaway

2010-06-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to entry number 28 -- Laura!

You are the lucky winner. Please email me at crystalbeutler@msn.com with your address.

Clark Couture Giveaway

2010-06-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

I few months ago, I participated in an elementary school craft fair. When I was unloading my car, I noticed two of my friends, Liz and Mel sitting in a booth full of flowers. As it happened, their booth was next to mine and I discovered the flowers were darling hair clips. They have a business called Clark Couture.
We spent the day chatting and admiring our creative work. Before the fair was over, I said "Hey, if you guys ever want to do a giveaway, call me!"

Last week, they called me! And lucky for you that they did!

Clark Couture is giving away one of their amazing accessory frames and 4 hair clips of your choice! Here's a picture of the giveaway frame.

And here's a sample of their adorable hair clips, which can be worn on girls of all ages, including me. (I bought a few at the craft fair.) Just think, the lucky winner get's to pick 4 clips of their choice!

Here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Sunday, June 6th 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Monday, June 7th. The winner must notify me by Tuesday, June 8th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

Entry #2: Visit "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, and sign up to follow me. Then come back here and leave a comment "following". If you are already following, write: "Already a Follower."

Entry #3: Visit Clark Couture. Then come back here and leave a comment telling Liz and Mel which clips that you would like to win.

Good luck everyone!

Three Giveaways this Week!!!!

2010-05-31T20:10:00.001-07:00

Are you ready! I'm giving away jewelry this week, but not on my blog. I want you to have a chance to win so I'm sending you to the places where you can enter.

On June 2nd - I'm giving away a beautiful necklace on the Blog Guidebook a new site created by Lyndsay Johnson. You are going to love it!! It's a great resource for learning how to enhance your blog, connect with other bloggers with similar interests, and to find giveaways. You name it, Lyndsay has put it all together in one place. Here's the link:

On Wednesday, June 2nd - I'll be giving away several things at My Giveaway Today. If you've never been to this site, get excited because my friend Emily, the creator gives away amazing things Monday through Friday all year long. You heard it right! If you love giveaways, you will love My Giveaway Today. Make sure you bookmark so you can find it again!

On Friday June 4th, come back here because I'm giving away adorable hair clips and an awesome accessory frame that holds jewelry (and hair clips). My friends Liz and Mel are the creators of these do-dads and they kindly offered to give some of them to you!!

Good luck everyone!!!!

Winner of the Mother's Day Locket

2010-05-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for playing everyone! I loved the comments about mothers and the things they teach us. In case your wondering, my mother taught me it's ok to sing to the radio at the top of your lungs, even if you are tone deaf.

And now for the winner ........

Entry Number 46 Gina!

Congratulations, you have 24 hours to email me with your name and address. You can contact me at: crystalbeutler@msn.com

Check back in two weeks for another giveaway. This one involves scrapbook supplies, and earrings!

Mother's Day Giveaway!

2010-04-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

In honor of all women with a "mother heart", I am giving away a locket.

Did you know that in days gone by, women kept a snippet of loved-one's hair, inside the lockets they wore around their neck? I love this tradition. Too bad my husband is bald. (In his defense, he shaves his head.) I guess I'll have to go after my kids with a pair of scissors!

Any-whoo.... here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Tuesday, May 4th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Wednesday, May 5th. The winner must notify me by Thursday, May 6th, by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

Entry #2: Tell me something you learned from your mother.

Entry #3: I just posted new recipes on Best of Friends -- my recipe blog! Pay it a visit and tell me which recipes your mother would enjoy at a Mother's Day celebration.

Good luck everyone!

P.S. If you are a mother, send your husband a link to my Etsy shop and drop a mother's day hint! http://www.crystalbeutler.etsy.com

Winners of the April 15th Birthday Giveaway!

2010-04-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks for playing everyone!!! The Random Number generator has selected.......

Entry number 11: enSTYLEepedia as the winner of the Nie necklace,

and

Entry number 100: Natasha as the winner of the earrings!!!

Winners, send me an email at crystalbeutler@msn.com with your full name and address.

Check back on April 20th -- I will be giving away some of my new designs.

Apron Winner

2010-04-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for playing!

The winner of the apron and the cookbook is........

Entry #12 - Sarah Owen

Send me an email at: crystalbeutler@msn.com with your name and address!

Check back on April 15th -- I'm giving away something to celebrate my birthday!!

It's Easter Weekend - Giveaway

2010-04-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

For those of you celebrating Easter -- Happy Easter. To those of you who are not -- Happy Spring (even though it has been going on for a while).
.

I've been thinking about recipes all week -- Easter Feast and all that. So I thought, what better item to vie away than a cute apron and a cookbook!!!!! In case you are thinking, "I don't cook" well think again because I've giving away the apron below, and a copy of Rachael Ray's 20 Minute Meals. Even a novice can make her recipes. They are fast and easy ... and good too!
.

Want to see the apron............ here you go!

This contest starts today and ends, Monday, April 5th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Thursday, March 4th. The winner must notify me by Wednesday, April 7th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

Entry #2: In any one of my blogs located here, or "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, or "The Best of Friends (a recipe blog)" sign up to follow me. Then write in the comment section: "Following ...."

Entry #3: Visit my recipe blog -- The Best of Friends, and take a look a round. Then come back here and let me know which recipe you would like to try.

P.S. If you like aprons, you should check out the aprons I sell. You can find them here.

Good luck everyone!!

Winnier of Charmingly Adorned by Angie Necklace

2010-03-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

The winner of Angie's necklace is entry number 22, Janelle! Congratulations Janelle, you have until Friday at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Standard Time to contact me with your name and address. You can contact me at: crystalbeutler@msn.com

If you liked Angie's jewelry, you should know that she is going to be holding another great giveaway on May 18th at My Giveaway Today. Make sure you enter to win!

Thanks for playing. Make you you check back next week -- I'm giving away a darling apron and a cookbook!!

Giving Away a Necklace from Charmingly Adorned by Angie

2010-03-22T00:08:00.000-07:00

My friend Angie and I share a few things in common -- a love for books, and a love for jewelry. We've had fun chatting back and forth via the Internet about both. Last week, Angie sent me a BEAUTIFUL necklace. I was so excited because no one ever makes jewelry for moi'. Not only that .... Angie offered to give away a necklace from her Etsy shop called Charmingly Adorned by Angie. You can find her shop here.

Check this necklace out .....

I told you -- it's beautiful, huh! This necklace looks similar to mine -- it's 32 inches long and made from a variety of beautiful colored stones and silver hoops. It even has a toggle clasp. I love toggle clasps! The thing I like about this piece is that it is very well made and it goes with EVERYTHING! It's my new "go-to" necklace. I have to hide it because my daughter (a jewelry thief) will take it if she gets a chance.

I think you need this necklace!! You do!! Aren't you lucky you have a chance to win??

But wait, there's more! Angie's not only offering to give away a necklace, she's offering free shipping to anyone who wants to make a purchase in her shop -- today only. Pretty nice of her huh!!!! I think you need to pay her a visit, yes I do!

Here are the contest rules:
.
This contest starts today and ends, Wednesday, March 24th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Thursday, March 25th. The winner must notify me by Friday, March 26th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.
.
You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:
.

Entry #1: Enter your name;
.

Entry #2: Visit Angie's Etsy shop and mark her as a "favorite." Then write in the comment section: "Marked Angie as a Favorite."

Entry #3: While you are in Angie's shop take a look around. Then leave a 3rd comment and let us know which piece of jewelry in her shop is your favorite. For example: " I love the Carmingly Bright Blue Skies Necklace!!"

Good luck everyone! Make sure to check back on Thursday to see if you are a winner!!

March 10th I'm Giving Away Jewelry on Giveaway Today!

2010-03-10T07:39:00.001-08:00

On March 10th (that's today) I'm giving away jewelry on Giveaway Today. Check it out!!! It's an amazing giveaway site, in case you've never been there. Here's the link:

http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/

Good luck!!

Giveaway From Blogaholic Designs

2010-03-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

Blog Design Giveaway! Blogaholic Designs is teaming up with Jady Day Studio to giveaway two custom blog designs! This is for blogger blogs only. The two kits to be used Springdipity Safari Dreamin How to enter By leaving a comment on Blogaholic Designs. Each comment counts as an entry so leave many and on every post : ) And you might want to look at the two above kits and put your favorite in one of the comments. Other ways to enter · Become a fan of Blogaholic Desigsn on Facebook. · Become a follower of Blogaholic Desigsn. · Post about this giveaway on your blog and let me know by leaving a comment! When It ends The deadline for entries is March 12th. The winner will be announced on Blogaholic Designs on March 13th.

March 1st Giveaway Winners

2010-03-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

Post Script: Sorry... I messed up the ending date for this giveaway. I typed, 10:00 A.M., instead of P.M. Check back on March 10th for another fun giveaway that involves recipes .... and jewelry of course!

Thank you so much for sharing gift giving ideas, such GREAT ideas!!! I loved them! In fact, it was hard to decide which one I liked the most -- but I think Pam, who shared her idea about heifer.org really caught my eye -- especially with all the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile. Pam, you win a free pair of my red fleur earrings.

The winner of the Nie Nie necklace is .......

#76 Diane Vorderstrasse!

The winner of the baby bibs is .....

#92 Tanya M. aka Coffee and Diapers

The winner of the pillow cases is .....

#14 Nanette Semon

Congratulations winners! Send me an email at crystalbeutler@msn.com with your name and address. If I don't hear from you by Friday at 10:00 PM Pacific Standard Time, then I will select a new winner!

Check back tomorrow for a blog design giveaway.

March Giveaway

2010-02-28T22:12:00.000-08:00

For some reason, I have lots of friends and family with Spring birthdays, March is the beginning of a big birthday palooza that lasts for about 3 months. I'm always looking out for gifts... and since that has been on my mind, I'm giving away things besides jewelry -- things you can keep, or give away -- it's up to you.

First, I'm giving away 1 Nie Nie necklace (since that's what most of you have asked for). Nie has been on my mind. I'm hoping she feels better and is able to continue on with her surgery.

Second, I'm giving away 1 set of hand made baby bibs suitable for a boy, or girl.

And finally, I'm giving away a set of hand made pillow cases -- so cute for a girls bedroom, but they can also be used as a sleepover pillowcase or a tooth fairy pillowcase -- to be used only when the tooth fairy visits.

Here are the rules:

This contest starts today and ends, Wednesday, March 3rd (my cousin's birthday) at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Thursday, March 4th. The winner must notify me by Friday, March 5th (my mom's birthday) by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:
.
Entry #1: Enter your name.
.
Entry #2: In any one of my blogs located here, or "Life & Times of the Beutler Family, or "The Best of Friends (a recipe blog)" sign up to follow me. Then write in the comment section: "Following ...."
.
Entry #3: Share a gift giving idea ..... For example: "In my town we have a cannery. Every year, I like to use it to can a few "creativity kits" or "fun in a can" kits. Kids just love opening the can and you can fill it with things from the dollar store. I've made art kits with crayons, clay, stickers, paper, glue, scissors ,etc.; or beauty kits with nail polish, cotton balls, makeup, etc. Sometimes it contains easy stuff like some candy and a gift card. I make a creative label for the outside of the can using scrap booking supplies, but if I'm in a hurry, I make one on my computer. Way fun. If you don't have access to a cannery, use transparent plastic jars. You can find them at Walmart or Ikea.

Good luck everyone!

P.S. I might just giveaway a surprise for the best gift giving idea.

New Contest on March 1st

2010-02-23T12:16:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know, I'll be hosting a giveaway on March 1st. Don't forget to enter!!!!!

Winners - Anniversary Giveaway

2010-02-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much everyone for helping me celebrate my Etsy anniversary! I gather from all of your comments that the most wanted necklace is the Nie Nie.... and the most wanted earrings are the CJanes! Love those two women. Love them. Check back on March 15th and I will host another giveaway for both of those items as well as something for Easter!

And now for the winners ........ The random number calculator has selected.......

#11 Shanny Blockburger

and

#122 Tiffany Hillam

Congratulations! You have until Tuesday, February 16th to contact me at: crystalbeutler@msn.com with your address and your wish!

It's My Etsy Anniversary - Giveaway

2010-02-11T16:18:00.000-08:00

It's my Etsy Anniversary!! Two years in business -- it's been so much fun. I need to celebrate and thank all of my wonderful customers for their kind comments and loyalty. So... today, I'm hosting another giveaway!

Here's what I'm giving away:

I'm Granting Two Wishes...... for Any Item in My Shop!!

Two lucky winners will each win the item of their choice from the shop of Crystal B.

That's right. You get to pick the thing you want most!!

But first.... I think I need to show you a few pictures just to get you excited:

Remember.... you get to choose anything you want from Crystal B. So go visit my shop and start your wish list!!!

Here are the contest rules:

This contest starts today and ends on Valentines Day -- Sunday, February 14th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you. The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Monday, February 15th. The winner must notify me by Tuesday, February 16th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I do not receive a response from the winner, a new one will be selected using the random number calculator.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

#2: Mark me as a follower so you can get notices of future giveaways on this site. Then write in the comment section: "I marked you as a follower." If you are already a follower here -- visit my other blog "Life & Times of the Beutler Family and follow me there. Then write in the comment section: "Following both blogs."

Entry #3. Answer this question: "The thing I would like to win most from Crystal B is........."

Good luck everyone, and thanks again to all my customers!!! I really appreciate you.

Winners of the CJane/Crystal B Giveaway

2010-02-04T22:39:00.000-08:00

Can I just say how much I loved all of your comments about CJane and her wonderful writing. It touched my heart and made me realize the power we have to lift each other when we journal. You all said it best.... I love posts about relationships, overcoming trials, and the day to day observations of life. Keep writing CJane, we love you!

Now for the winners of our giveaway........

#97 Nanette Semon is the winner of the Lucy earrings!!!

#228 Laura Waltz is the winner of the CJane earrings!!!

#310 Suzanne Sillin is the winner of the Mrs. Johnson earrings!!!!

#474 5ibarras is the winner of the Nie Nie necklace!!!!!

You each have until Saturday to email me with your name and address at:

crystalbeutler@msn.com

Thank you for participating. I really wish I had the time and money to send every single one of you a pair of earrings!!!

Check back on Friday, February 12th for another giveaway. That's the anniversary of the day I opened my Etsy shop. I think I need to celebrate with all of you!!

P.S. Please note that the comment numbering on my blog is a little weird. Each time a new page begins the numbers start all over again. You have to check which page you are on to know exact numbers. Sorry about that.

CJane & Crystal B Giveaway

2010-01-31T20:30:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited! This giveaway is in connection with my favorite blogger -- Courtney Kendrick. Most of you know her as CJane. She's my cyber friend and this week, we are co-hosting a giveaway for a delicious pair of earrings. I gave them to Courtney's sister, Lucy who LOVES them. I love them too, so I'm giving this pair away to readers of CJane (and anyone else who just happens to be visiting this site.) Hint to all readers.... make sure you read the P.S. at the end of this post!!)

A little bit about these earrings. They are made with vintage reproductions of flower cabs that were manufactured in Japan during World War II. They remind me of the drapes that used to hang in my house when I was a little girl -- the drapes were my great grandmothers (our house belonged to her before she died. They were manufactured in the 40's too.) The earring posts are surgical steel so they won't irritate sensitive skin. I also have these earrings for sale in my Etsy shop, in case you don't win the giveaway and you need a pair.

This contest starts today and ends on Thursday, February 4th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you.
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The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Friday, February 5th. The winner must notify me by Saturday, February 6th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:
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Entry #1: Enter your name.
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Entry #2: Mark me as a follower so you can get notices of future giveaways on this site. Then write in the comment section: "I marked you as a follower" If you are already a follower -- write: "Already a follower."
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Entry #3. Answer this question: What is your favorite CJane post?? (One of my favorites is her story about "The Tent" and... of course the story about her childhood dog who destroyed a date with an Irishman (If you have not read this story, you have to take the time to read it... hilarious.)

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Good luck everyone!

P.S. 2/2/10 Wow!!! We've had so many entries that I'm upping the ante! In addition to the Lucy earrings, I'm going to give away three more things..... one to 4 separate winners! Are you ready... I'm also giving away 1 pair of CJane earrings, 1 pair of Madame Johnson earrings, and a Nie Nie necklace!

Hearts to You Giveaway - Prize unclaimed!!

2010-01-27T22:35:00.000-08:00

Oh I hate to do this... I really do... but the winner of this giveaway did not claim her prize. I reluctantly have to pick a new winner and that winner is entry number 61 ........

Julie Lundquist

Julie.... I am crossing my fingers that you check back so you can claim your prize by Friday, January 29th at 10:00 p.m. Otherwise I'll just have to start a brand new giveaway.

Hearts to You Winner

2010-01-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

I loved reading about all the cool gifts people have received for Valentine's Day. Thanks for participating!!!

The Random Number Generator has selected entry number 91 as the winner of this giveaway, who is...........

Lily Bayard

Congratulations Lily! You have until Wednesday, January 27th at 10:00 p.m. to claim your prize.

Check back on February 14th for a new giveaway.

P.S. I'm posting a whole bunch of new stuff in my shop on Wednesday, January 25th. Check it out!

Hearts to You - Giveaway

2010-01-20T22:03:00.001-08:00

I just listed a new necklace in my shop -- just in time for Valentine's Day. I think you could get away with wearing it all year long though. I like it so much that I'm going to give one away!! Yep, that's right another giveaway!!

A little bit about this necklace: It's made with a selection of glass hearts made in Czechoslovakia, an aged brass charm that says "I Love You" in French, and aged brass findings. The necklace measures 18 inches. I think you need one, don't you??

This contest starts today and ends on Sunday, January 24th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and is open to anyone over 18 years old, living in the United States. If you are under 18, you have to get a parent to enter for you.

The winner will be selected using a random number calculator on Tuesday, January 26th. The winner must notify me by Thursday, January 27th by sending me an email at: http://www.crystalbeutler@msn.com.

You can enter up to 3 times in the comment section:

Entry #1: Enter your name.

Entry #2: Mark me as a follower so you can get notices of future giveaways on this site. Then write in the comment section "I marked you as a follower" If you are already a follower -- write "Already a follower."

Entry #3. Answer this question: What was the best thing you ever received for Valentine's Day?

That's it. Good luck to all!!

P.S. If you like giveaways, check out my friend Emily Cushing's website. She gives away something cool every day. I've found amazing stuff on her site! http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/

Winner of "Mrs. Churchill"

2010-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Mrs. Churchill giveaway. I was so motivated by all the New Year's resolutions! It was inspiring. So... the Random Number Calculator has selected entry number 151 as the winner of this giveaway -- and this contestant is Jenni, who has a blog called Quick & Easy Recipes.

Congratulations Jenni! Please claim your prize by sending me an email at: crystalbeutler@msn.com. If I don't hear from you by Wednesday, 20th, I will select a new winner.

Check back this Thursday if you want to enter to win a heart necklace. Perfect for Valentine's Day!!

Happy New Year

2010-01-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

It's January.... a brand new unused year! What are you going to do with it? I have lots of plans, but first, I want to give away a necklace!

We all need reminders now and then.... this one helps me.

Here are the rules:

1. This giveaway is open to anyone over the age of 18. If you are underage, you must have a parent enter for you.

2. The contest will close on Sunday, January 17th at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.

3. To enter, leave a comment in the comment section with the name of your favorite Crystal B. necklace which you can find here: http://www.crystalbeutler.etsy.com

4. You can enter a second time by leaving a comment in the comment section with one of your New Year's resolutions.

5. I will select a winner using a random number calculator. The winner will be notified on January 18th. I must receive and email from the winner within 24 hours, or a new winner will be selected.

If you like giveaways, mark me as a blog follower! I'll be having contests every month.

Good luck!

Winners of the Necklace Giveaway

2009-12-06T19:25:00.000-08:00

Our contect for necklackes is closed. Thanks to all who participated. Sorry I posted the winner's late... I went out of town this weekend, and didn't have internet access! What was I thinking!!

Here are the winners. Drum roll please.........

The winner of the Couture Vert necklace is: SocialStudiesSoubrette

And the winner of the "All is Well" necklace is: Mandi

Congratuations winners. You have until Tuesday evening to contact me. If I do not hear from you by 9:00 p.m., PST, I will select a new winner. My email address is: crystalbeutler@msn.com

Check back on Tuesday, December 14th. I'll be hosting another giveaway then.

Necklace Giveaway

2009-12-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

It's December!! Time to think about Christmas shopping. I'm giving away two necklaces this week that you may want to keep or give to someone on your list.

The first necklace is called Couture - Vert:

It's cute huh! Perfect for the holidays.... but think about how amazing it will look this Summer!

The second necklace is..... (drum roll please)............

A Nie Nie necklace! Yep, that's right. You asked for it, so here it is:

Here are the contest rules:

This contest is open to anyone over the age of 18 living in the United States or Canada. If you are under 18 years of age, a parent must enter the contest for you.

The contest will end on Saturday, December 5, at 10:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.

There will be two separate winners. Each will win one of the above necklaces. The winners will be chosen using a random number calculator.

I will post the name of the winners on Sunday, December 6th. You have 24 hours to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed I will pick another random winner.

Here's what you need to do to enter:

1. Send your significant other, or your mother an email with a link to my Etsy shop and tell them this is a good place to shop for gifts.
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2. Leave me a comment in the comment section of this post and tell me something that is on your "wish list". ( I'm wishing for a professional organizer to come and help me organize my office. It's a disaster!)

3. Leave another comment in the comment section and tell me which item from my Etsy shop you would like me to feature in my next giveaway.

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My Etsy shop is located here. Just give this link a click: http://www.crystalbeutler.etsy.com/

That's it, that's all you have to do. Good luck!!

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P.S. If you sign up to follow this blog, you will be able to know right away when I'm hosting my next give away!

Twilight Contest Closed

2009-11-17T16:46:00.000-08:00

The winner of the Twilight wolf necklace is.....

Eve Smith

Congratulations Eve, you have until Wednesday, November 18th at 9:00 p.m. to claim your prize by sending me an email. Have fun at the premiere of New Moon!!

Twilight Giveaway

2009-11-13T16:54:00.000-08:00

Contest Closed:
Welcome to my new giveaway blog, a place where I will be giving away items from my etsy store. If you've never paid it a visit, you should!!! You might just find the PERFECT Christmas gift for one of your friends, or.... something for yourself. You can visit my shop by clicking here.

In order to kick things off, I'm celebrating the release of New Moon! So, I'm going to give away a Crystal B wolf necklace. Are you a Jacob fan .... or does your heart belong to Edward? I'm guessing Edward, but we might just change our minds after we see the movie. Did you see the way Jacob jumps over Bella in the preview!!

Here are the giveaway rules:

This contest is open to anyone 18 or older, living in the United States or Canada.

In order to enter, leave a comment in this post with your name and tell me your favorite part of New Moon. That's it!

I will post the name of the winner on Tuesday, so make sure to check back then. The winner will be chosen using http://www.random.org/.

The winner must send me an email me at: http://www.crystalbeutler.msn.com/ with a mailing address.

If I don't receive a response from the winner within 24 hours of being announced, a new winner will be chosen.

Good luck, and have fun watching New Moon!!!!