Expect an element of surprise.

Today marks 100 days until my big birthday!

If my 8-year-old were here, she would absolutely be counting down too. 

When I was 8, I had a jewelry business. I’d set up a stand for neighbors and family, selling paper rings and bracelets, each one designed with Crayola stamp markers. My favorite ones were stamped with an intricate pattern of purple flowers and pink hearts. 

Sometimes I’d add a touch of "bling" … this was some aluminum foil to make it look fancy. 

I remember after my first sale, a ring with green shamrock design, sitting behind that little stand feeling so proud.

For the last year or so I’ve invited that creative child back, this time with a few better techniques and materials :)

To honor that imaginative, ambitious little girl…and the 100-day countdown, I’m challenging myself to make and sell 100 combined necklaces and bracelets. You tell me what colors you like (or someone you’d like to gift this to), and I’ll create something for you. 

The profits will go to two organizations in Venezuela that are close to my heart:

- Panabus, an organization that transforms the lives of people experiencing homelessness. They offer medical, dental and hygiene care in their bus.

- Asoprogar, an organization that provides home and a caring environment for children that have been abused, neglected or abandoned by their parents in Venezuela. The kids receive shelter, food, health, education and psychological assistance.