We are all in this together......upper-class, middle-class, lower-class, and the underclass.....our greatness is in us uniting!

as a policy professional is excited to see that the need to revamp our regulatory systems have been highlighted for real CHANGE!

is glad to see that this administration understands that a healthy, educated workforce is necessary!

is glad to know that entrepreneurs have a place in this administration's budget and in moving this country forward!

is happy to have a man of integrity, character, and courage who is willing to tell the truth while providing solutions and collaboration!

is happy to have a man of integrity, character, and courage who is willing to tell the truth and seeking solutions and collaboration!

is wishing all family, friends, colleagues and online acquaintances a Happy Valentine's Day!

Spring 2009 Jewelry Trends

Spring 2009 is in the air.

As always we must begin with color. There are three important color stories for the season.

The first is black and white.

The new take for this graphic combo is floral. Pretty all over large flowers. What’s really fresh for black and white is taking it in a less slick direction and adding a more textural attitude.

I believe using fabric wrapped beads, printed ceramic, and glass beads from India that are imperfect is a great way to achieve a crisp but natural look for this palette.

Coral and yellow is the warm palette this spring/summer. Look to the continent of India for inspiration.

Use patterned beaded and etched metals to complement your colors. Antique finished on metal, and rose gold platings can really make this theme a bit more directional.

Amazonite greens and translucent turquoise look great for a cool spring palette.

Try mixing matte and shiny beads for a beachy feeling. Touches of raffia for texture make a nice contrast, and using a brown or natural material to ground the colors is a new way to do blue.

Great earrings are going to be the key item for spring. Casual, light weight, colourful chandelier earrings will definitely take the spotlight.

Some key materials that are on the rise are

* seed beads
* chunky wooden beads
* mixed color threads
* printed and painted shell
* worn finished metals.

From e-article by Anne Rush, a professional designer and director in the fashion jewelry industry

is glad her mother came to give some "Mommy Love" this weekend and made it back this morning!

is thanking her Sorors of PAO for the beautiful flowers she just received!

is recuperating..