Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

A New Year... A New Beginning

2012-01-07T15:52:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012 ~ Live it in vivid color!

I love a new year and the feeling it brings of a new beginning.

A new year gives us time to reflect about the thoughts, dreams and desires we may have and want to pursue in the near future. Maybe it's a new hobby that fills your creative soul with joy or a new health plan that encourages more nutritious meals and a new sport or exercise routine that nurtures your body.

Maybe it's more time with friends doing things you love or more time alone re-charging your spirit in the mountains or at the beach.

Maybe it's a new job, career change or living situation you've been thinking about or planning for awhile.

A new year gives us the opportunity to change and grow to become a more authentic person, a kinder one to others and to ourselves. It encourages us to focus on new intentions to pursue, to take notice of the beauty in each day and be grateful for our blessings and the gifts we have to share.

Wishing you wonderful new beginnings in 2012.
With Love,
~Nancy

Key West, FL

My wish for you:

Live Happy
Enjoy new experiences
Share generously
Color your world
Love with all your heart
Be compassionate
Live in harmony
Find joy in every day
Cultivate a healthy life

Crested Butte, CO

This past year my business has grown and daily life has been filled with much adventure, travel and creativity. I'm happy to share some of my favorite scene's from 2011 with you. Enjoy!

Crested Butte, CO

Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Palm Beach, FL

Little Torch Key, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Juno Beach, FL

Key West Boat Parade

Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Crested Butte, CO

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Fantasy Fest, Key West, FL

Crested Butte, CO

Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Bullseye Glass, Sante Fe, NM

Crested Butte, CO

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Taos, NM

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry Beach Shell Bracelets for Margaritaville

Owner of Green World Gallery, Artist Koz and I

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry Signature Bracelet for Green World Gallery.com

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Crested Butte, CO

Summertime backyard visitors

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Crested Butte, CO

Little Torch Key, FL

Our sweet dog, Summer

Christmas in the Islands

2011-11-30T20:14:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays!

Be Merry. Be Bright. Be Colorful

Christmas in the islands is celebrated in a big way under the swaying palm trees, along the sparkling seas and sandy beaches in the southernmost key in the Florida Keys.

I hope you enjoy this little escape to the islands

and Live the Life you Love.

Looking for more Holiday Ideas and Inspiration take a look through the Holiday Blog Posts or join in with your own Holiday Blog at the fabulous coastal blog. http://nauticalcottageblog.com/

With Love,

~Nancy

Merry Christmas from the Islands

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Fast Buck Freddies Store
It's a festive time in Key West and store windows and entrances are filled with tropical santa's, santa's on bikes and creative gift ideas.

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry Bracelets for Margaritaville - Made in Key West

All the jewelry you see pictured is inspired by an island lifestyle and the sunsets, sand, palms and gorgeous ocean found in the Tropics. For these designs and more coastal holiday jewelry visit my website. www.nancyyuskaitisjewelry.com

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Favorite song lyric of the day: "All my life there's been this affair can't get enough of this salty air." ~ Dave Calhoun - Typically Tropical

Santa is on Duval Street

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Southernmost Beach, Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

My favorite coastal ceramics filled with shells & treasured ornaments

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Love this colorful display in my dining room

Favorite song lyric "...no place to go except watching the sunset slip into the sea."
~Howard Livingston - Livin on Key West Time

Beautifully decorated island home

Santa's ready to help with your shopping

Autumn: A Beautiful Time of Year

2011-11-17T19:28:00.001-08:00

Autumn: A Beautiful Time of Year.

Thank you for your support and encouragement during this last year. I appreciate all of you in my life, the relationships I've made and the heartfelt comments I've received fuels my passion to design jewelry everyday.

Wishing everyone an enjoyable and Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Thoughts that I found inspiring, and thought I'd share it with you.

"Thanksgiving thoughts are the kind of thoughts that we should have all year long. For its the folks with thankful hearts whose lives are filled with song. We should take time for kindness to those we hold most dear, and just extend a helping hand to others through the year. Let's set aside some quiet time and share it with a friend. For friendships bring a special joy and pleasure without end. So may the blessing of this day that I would ask for you, now fill you with Thanksgiving Peace that lasts the whole year through."

Little Torch Key, Fl

Crested Butte, CO

New Mexico

Crested Butte, CO

Little Torch Key, FL

Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Key West, FL

Key West, Fl

Key West, FL

Crested Butte, CO

Rosehips, Crested Butte, CO

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Crested Butte, CO

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Crested Butte, CO

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Florida Keys

Southwestern Adobe Style

2011-09-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

It only took a few days during my first visit to Taos to fall in love

with the town and it's palette of adobe and turquoise.

I fell so in love with these warm yet vibrant tones that I am

painting the living room and kitchen of our mountain home in these

beautiful shades. The painting starts tomorrow and I am excited

to update the look and feel of our home and appreciate the new

atmosphere it evokes.

I love color...that's apparent in my jewelry design and in my home,

whether it be an island beach house in tropical lime, aquamarine

and cobalt blue or a western mountain cottage with rustic wood, tile

and lots of local art including paintings, photographs and ceramics.

This time I am making the move from a happy yellow gold shade

that I contrasted with a deep plum with lots of white trim including

a white staircase, dark wood floors and furniture in leather

and copper. Although this color scheme was enjoyed for quite a

few years it was time for a change at least in wall color.

I will post pic's next week after the transformation

inspired by our vacation and these photo's and look forward to

hearing your comments and opinions.

Wishing you a Colorful Life,

~Nancy

Inspired by the Ocean

2011-09-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

Let summer linger a bit longer with ocean inspired jewelry.

My life is like a stroll upon the beach, as near the ocean's edge as I can go.

--Henry David Thoreau

No matter where I am I never let go of my desire to be near the coast.

My Island Beach Style Collection is filled with jewelry inspired by the

shimmering aquamarine hues of the sparkling sea, beachy sun-drenched

colors, sea shells, sandy beaches and sunsets.

These latest designs are particularly inspired by all the beautiful shades

of the sea and can be found with their names and descriptions on my website.

NancyYuskaitisJewelry

Wishing you ocean breezes,

~Nancy

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Deep Blu Sea"

Florida Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Paradise Found"

San Francisco

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Tropical Island Sea"

California

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

California

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Dazzle Earrings ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

California

Dazzle Earrings ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Colorado

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Key West

Island Beach Style ~ Sandy Beaches & Seashells

2011-08-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy August in the studio designing jewelry for several online gift shops, Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville and Via Key West. I hope you will take a moment while sipping a cup of coffee or your favorite tea and visit them both online, I promise you won't be disappointed with the unique selection of gifts in a tropical style.

I've also been busy filling new orders, making custom earrings and bracelets for repeat customers and even a memory bracelet for one of my most supportive customers who wanted to remember a close friend.

Bracelets are always a fun way to add a pop of color and show off your style with ease. Today I've featured two of my favorite things in the world...beaches and seashells. Bracelets shown will be available online at www.margaritavillestore.com Made in Key West and ViaKeyWest

I can't believe it's the end of August...where has the summer gone? Even though school has started and it's almost Labor Day I'm still in a summertime frame of mind listening to beach music at Beachfront Radio and dreaming of the beach.

Keep in touch with Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry on:
Facebook
Twitter

I hope you enjoy the rest of the summer in style.
Live a Colorful Life,
~Nancy

Bahia Honda State Park, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Little Torch Key" Beach Shell Bracelet

Parrotdise Restaurant ~ Little Torch Key, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Sunset Key" Beach Shell Bracelet

Southernmost Point Cafe on the Beach ~ Key West

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ "Sea Time" Beach Shell Bracelet

Ibis Bay Resort and Restaurant ~ Key West

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry "Golden Sands" Beach Shell Bracelet

Marathon Key, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry "Lilac Beach" Beach Shell Bracelet

Bahia Honda State Park, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry "Bahama Village" Beach Shell Bracelet

Bahia Honda State Park, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry Beach Shell Bracelets

One of my favorite signs

Picnic Island, Little Torch Key, FL Keys

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry "Summer" Beach Shell Bracelet

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry "Summer" Beach Shell Bracelets

An Artful Town ~ Crested Butte, CO

2011-08-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

Crested Butte, Colorado in the summertime is filled with art shows, ArtWalks, an organic farmer's market and this past weekend the CB Art Festival lined our main street, Elk Avenue with rows of white tents filled with colorful art. It is a festive two day event filled with live music, delicious foods, art and food demo's and of course lots of local and national artists. I've featured a few of my favorite artists from various shows this summer that I hope you enjoy. Creativity inspires creativity. Enjoy!

~Nancy

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ AWEfest 2011

Luisa Kingsdale Naughton ~ LKClay ~ AWEfest 2011

Dinnerware Designs ~ LKClay Ceramics~ AWEfest 2011

Thimblelina design by Nina ~ AWEfest 2011

Fun Collage Art from Vintage Sculpture ~ CB Art Fest 2011

AWEfest 2011

Adam Freed ~ AWEfest 2011

Shaun Horne ~ CB PlenAir Painter ~

Crested Butte Art Fest 2011 ~ Love these colorful birdhouses from Weathered Wonders

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ J.C. Leacock Photo Gallery

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Dusty Demerson Photography ~ CB Art Fest 2011

Crested Butte Farmer's Market 2011

Artist, Sherrie Vandervoort, ceramic artist Tricia Dill and I at the Paragon Gallery

Sherrie Vandervoort and her paintings at the Paragon Gallery

Jan Birch Rugs ~ Crested Butte Art Fest 2011

Timothy White Furniture-maker ~ AWEfest 2011

J. C. Leacock signing his Colorado Photography Book ~ Crested Butte Art Fest 2011

Donna Rozman Ceramics ~ Crested Butte Art Fest 2011

Artist's of the West Elk ~ CB Art Fest 2011 ~ Kate Seeley's work

Crested Butte Art Fest 2011 ~ Elk Avenue

Funky, cool glass art ~ CB Art Fest 2011

Seaside Sunsets in the Florida Keys

2011-08-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

Sunsets in the Florida Keys are a gorgeous ending to a beautiful day.

Each one is more unique than the day before and each one calls for a celebration.

I love sitting on the back dock toasting the sunset as it falls into the ocean giving the sky a burst of color in shades of peach, persimmon, mango and conch shell pink. These photo's are some of my favorites taken over the last year or so in the lower Keys and

Key West. I hope you enjoy the beauty and delightful surprise that calls to me each evening whenever possible to experience this true gift.

Wishing you sunset delight,

~Nancy

It's Summertime! Celebrate with Flowers

2011-07-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a happy, bright, sunshiny week from the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte.

It's Summertime! Let's celebrate with Flowers.

This delightfully small ski town which is covered in a blanket of white for many months of the year is experiencing an explosion of color in shades of pink, purple, orange and yellow this summer. Last week was the Wildflower Festival and the flowers were peaking on the mountainsides and trails, but everywhere you look there are gardens, flower boxes and hanging baskets bursting with gorgeous colorful flowers.

Everyone gets into the spirit of summertime here and plants to their hearts content or purchases the most beautiful flowers available to display in their yards and porches. Shops, galleries, offices and restaurants display hugh hanging baskets which must be watered each day in their entrances and the town provides planters and flower boxes which line the main street, Elk Avenue in vibrant summer blossoms.

Although the growing season is short here, usually about 90 days this flower frenzy is a feast for the eyes and fills your heart and soul with gratitude for such beauty.

Enjoy the flowers and the inspired by nature ~ Botanical Style flower bracelets which can be found on my website or if sold, by special request. Keep checking back for more flower inspired jewelry this summer.

Remember to stay on touch on facebook and twitter too!

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry/facebook

Twitter.com/NancyYJewelry

Happy Summer!

~Nancy

Botanical Style ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry available at Pfister's Handworks

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry available at J. C.Leacock Photo Gallery

Love & Flowers Bracelets ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Peace, Flowers, Love & Joy Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Botanical Style Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Mother & daughter Botanical Style Bracelets ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Pretty Pink Flowers ~ Botanical Style Bracelet

Peace & Flowers Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

A Mountain Style Summer

2011-07-06T15:13:00.000-07:00

Crested Butte, Colorado is a beautiful small mountain town in Western Colorado. It is a ski town in the winter known for it's extreme skiing, friendly locals and colorful costumed events. In the summertime it is known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado and a festive place to enjoy the cool mountain fresh air while hiking, biking, camping or fishing close to home in just about every direction.

Long summer days are filled with many activities including art walks and art shows, free outdoor concerts in the park downtown and on the ski mountain, theatre plays, organic markets, and bike races such as the chainless, 24 hour townie, and Ride the Rockies. There are also many great festivals to participate in including the upcoming 25th annual Wildflower Festival July 11-17th that makes this town unique. In this post I've included a few pics from our 4th of July Parade which is always festive, entertaining and fun for all ages.

Relax and Enjoy the Mountain View,
~Nancy

On our way to the campsite

J.C. Leacock Photography Gallery

Available at J.C. Leacock Photo Gallery in Crested Butte

One of the many beautiful flower baskets on Elk Ave

Available at J.C. Leacock Photo Gallery in Crested Butte

Cowgirl Style Bracelets ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Local Bench Art

Cowgirl Style Jewelry ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Local Natural Food Market

Campsite Campfire

Serious Stargazing at the campsite

Favorite Coffee- Chai Spot downtown Crested Butte

CB Parade 4th of July 2011

Dancin' in the street on Elk Ave

CB Parade ~ 4th of July 2011

Rocky Mountain Biological Lab ~ CB 4th of July Parade

Elk Ave Crested Butte ~ 4th of July

Downtown Crested Butte 4th of July 2011

4th of July Parade ~ Crested Butte King & Queen Has-Been's Float

Alpenglow Stage ~ Free outdoor summer concert venue

Oh Be Joyful

Colorful Signs of The Florida Keys

2011-06-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Key West, FL

It's always an adventurous scenic ride down US1 in the Florida Keys and you will be entertained by what you see along the way. Each Key boasts it's own island personality with some subtle and some more bold. The view is breathtaking with the ocean on both sides of the highway in gorgeous shimmering shades of turquoise and green.

As you pass each mile marker heading south from Key Largo to Key West the sights will captivate your attention to the various restaurants, resorts and shops along both sides of this two lane overseas highway. Since there is only one road through the Keys everyone coming into or leaving the Keys must travel together along with the local traffic on each key as people drive to and from work, the grocery store or out to enjoy a fresh seafood meal and live music at the various tiki bars on along US1.

The sights and scene's you will see here is a sampling of Keys life as you explore the island chain. I hope you enjoy the ride!
Live happy,
~Nancy

Sunset Key Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Stock Island, FL

Margaritaville, Key West, FL

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Hogfish Grill, Stock Island, FL

Conch Republic Flag, Little Torch Key, FL

Key West, FL

A tropical House Sign, Fla Keys

Key West Seafood Vendor

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Bahia Honda State Park

Island Beach Style Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Boating Warning from Dolphin Marina, Little Torch Key

Key West, FL

Key West

Ibis Bay Restaurant & Resort, Key West, FL

Sail Away Necklaces ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Hogfish Grill, Key West, FL

Sea Shades Earrings ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry
www.viakeywest.com

Islamorada, FL

Summerland Key, FL

Islamorada, FL

Stone Soup Gallery, Key West, FL ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Island Beach Style Bracelet ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Fantasy Fest

Key West, FL

Seaside Days ~ Relax. Unwind. Escape.

2011-05-29T12:32:00.000-07:00


Key West

Hello,
Take a dip the water is refreshing and wonderful. As I gaze out my studio windows I am inspired, nurtured and charged with energy to design unique jewelry in shades of sunsets and shimmering seas. I hope you enjoy the view!
Live Happy,
~Nancy

"Follow what you love and it will take you where you want to go." ~ Natalie Goldberg


Blue Sand ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Southernmost Point, Key West


Sky Blue Dazzle


Conch Shell ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Mallory Square, Key West


Amber Dazzle


Key West Sunset


Dante's Poolside Key West


Bohemian Style "Adventure" Necklace ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Bayside Fla Keys

Bohemian Style ~ "Spicy Red" Necklace


Island Boat Decor


Ocean Key, Key West


Aqua Sea Necklace ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Ibis Bay, Key West


Florida Keys

Springtime in the Islands

2011-05-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

Spring...the transition between Winter and Summer in the Florida Keys is a vibrant beautiful time of year. The temperature is warm in the high 80's with very little rain and moderate humidity. The ocean is warm yet refreshing for an afternoon swim in the backyard or beach or with a short boat ride to a nearby coral reef you can immerse yourself with a variety of colorful tropical fish. The waters are mostly calm and there is a light breeze swaying the palm trees just a bit. Flowering bushes and trees pop with gorgeous shades of pink, purple and orange contrasted with white picket fences in beautiful small front yards. What a joy and pleasure it is to be living on an island in the Florida Keys in the Springtime!
Wishing you new beginnings and the promise of beautiful things to come!
Live a colorful life,
~Nancy


Marathon Key, Fl Keys


Florida Keys


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Island Beach Style Bracelets


Little Torch Key, FL Keys


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Island Beach Style Bracelets


Key West, FL


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Island Beach Style Bracelets


Key West


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Island Beach Style Bracelet


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Bohemain Style Collection


Island inspired party boat decor


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Palm Tree Collection


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry ~ Island Beach Style


Key West Art

Celebrate Earth Day Everyday

2011-04-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Earth Day although events were held all week in the Florida Keys, my destination to celebrate was the Help Yourself Cafe in Key West. This lively cafe sits on a corner and its outdoor seating area is filled with beautiful plants and fragrant herbs. It was mid-day and a warm 85 degrees out and my first stop when we arrived was to a booth serving fresh coconut water where I was given a large cold green coconut and a straw to enjoy its refreshing benefits. Fresh coconut water is available everyday at the cafe bottled for a quick pick me up but there is something extra fun about drinking it straight from the coconut. This popular beverage is filled with electrolytes, vitamins and minerals and is considered a natural energy drink. I usually buy it pre-packaged in health food stores and various markets around the country and enjoy some before or after exercise and to re-hydrate. As with anything else...nothing beats fresh!

Recycling, reusing and reducing waste are important steps to maintaining a healthy planet and as consumers we can also reflect our personal beliefs by supporting handmade art, local business, fresh organic foods and natural home and beauty products in our choices.
Enjoy Life and Celebrate the beauty in this special place we call home...Earth.
~Nancy


Earth Day event at Help Yourself Cafe in Key West


Help Yourself Cafe in Key West

Help Yourself Cafe
829 Fleming Street
Key West, FL

A restaurant providing Key West with delicious organic food in their garden setting cafe seven days a week from 8AM-4PM.

To re-inspire the passion for eating food as it should be:

DELICIOUS, NUTRITIOUS, NATURAL

With a mission to inspire and nurture people and communities to help themselves through food and lifestyle choices, Charlotte (Charlie) Wilson opened Help Yourself Café in October 2008.


Enjoying fresh local coconut water in Key West


Lurey Taylor, Key West Artist

I visited the other booths while listening to some live music and met an artist selling her designs using beach glass, driftwood and shells as mosaics and beautiful wind chimes.


Adam Russell from Honest Works Island Pottery

I also met Adam Russell from the southernmost pottery company in the United States, Honest Works Island Pottery demonstrating the process of turning a pot on the wheel in front of the Help Yourself Cafe. His friendly manner and colorful pottery have inspired me to visit their website and Key West gallery to choose something to take home to my cottage by the sea.

Kelly Lever and Adam Russell, co-founders of Honest Works, are ceramic artists focusing on making a positive impact on culture with their beautiful functional ceramics and attitude.
As stated on their etsy site..."Artwork is our time out of time, meditation. It is our way to bring forward a tangible version and a viewable collection of thoughts and ideas."

I look forward to keeping up to date following their blog which is filled with gorgeous words, descriptions and photo's of their pottery and Key West lifestyle.

www.honestworkskeywest.com
www.etsy.com/people/HonestWorks
www.keywestpottery.blogspot.com


www.floridakeysseasalt.com

Organic Foods:

Help Yourself Cafe Organic Market in Key West is open on Mondays 11AM-5PM offering a delicious assortment of fruits and veggies in front of the cafe. Bulk items such as grains, nuts, seeds, beans and dried fruit are also available any day by bringing you own jar or containers.


Crested Butte Farmers Market in Colorado


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry at the Crested Butte Farmers Market

I am spoiled by living part of the year in a quaint ski town nestled high in the mountains of Crested Butte, Colorado where I became involved in starting an organic market four years ago. The Crested Butte Farmers Market, has grown each year to become a vital part of the community providing artisan cheese and baked goods, sustainably produced heirloom vegetables, grass-finished and pastured meats and hand-crafted art and jewelry.


The Crested Butte Farmers Market in Colorado

The Crested Butte Farmers Market is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sustainable agriculture within Crested Butte. The market is open Sunday 10AM-2PM June through October and soon will announce the week night the market will be open. www.cbfarmersmarket.org/


A bounty from Annie's Organic Buying Club in South Florida


Annie's Organic Buying Club in South Florida


Annie's Organic Buying Club in South Florida

Two weeks ago I joined an organic buying club Annie's Buying Club, which delivers amazing fresh produce to the Fla Keys. Each week I am delighted with the beauty, assortment and taste of the produce I receive in my order. One week there may be strawberries, pears, lemons, asparagus, romaine, grape tomatoes, fingerling potatoes and carrots and the next will be pineapple, white radishes, apples, bananas, kiwi, artichokes, broccoli, zucchini and yellow squash. I order the full selection and receive plenty of delicious produce to last throughout the week. www.anniesbuyingclub.com

The Good Food Conspiracy Market on Big Pine Key has been offering healthy foods and fresh soups, sandwiches and juices for decades and the back yard patio is a charming place to enjoy your lunch.

Food for Thought in Marathon, Fla Keys is a vegan raw cafe nestled in a beautiful healthfood/bookstore offering a variety of smoothies, fresh juices, coffee, espresso, tea as well as daily raw specials, soups, salads, wraps and grain bowls. Most items are gluten/soy
free. It is a great atmosphere to shop for groceries, enjoy a delicious soup or salad for lunch and pick out a new book or two for yourself or a gift.

Green Lodging in the Fla Keys:
Parmer's Resort, Little Torch Key
The Gardens Hotel, Key West

HAPPY EARTH DAY !!!! Here are 10 things you can do NOW to make the world a better, safer, cleaner place ! ~ ~ Sharon Conners

1. Walk or Bike to work
...
2. REUSE, RECYCLE, REPURPOSE, REDUCE !
...
3. Change your lightbulbs to LED's (CFLs contain Toxic Mercury!)

4. Get rid of toxic cleaning and personal care products and replace with all-natural, biodegradable, non-toxic and/or organic products.

5. Go MEATLESS 2-3 days a week ! (Reduces greenhouse gasses, petroleum consumption and groundwater/soil contamination from factory farming)

6. Go ORGANIC ! It's not as expensive as you think. You ARE what you eat. If you EAT healthy, you'll BE healthy !!

7. Plant a garden ! If you don't have land, a patio or porch containers will do. Make sure you use ORGANIC soil, fertilizers and SEEDS !

8. Get rid of toxic things in your environment /house : plastics, vinyl, particle board/MDF, carpeting and replace w/natural eco-friendly, non-toxic alternatives like solid wood, tile, ceramic, glass, woven grass (jute,hemp, sisal), wicker, bamboo, cork, recycled glass, natural stone.

9. Invest in an air purifier for your home. (Make sure it DOES NOT create ozone)

10. Invest in a whole house reverse osmosis water filtration system. Almost all city water is contaminated with highly toxic fluoride and chlorine which cause serious health problems as they're breathed in as gases while showering, absorbed through your skin or consumed while eating/drinking. Not to mention 100's of other dangerous chemicals that contaminate water supplies..ie hexavalent-chromium 6, arsenic, barium and more.

Now that you have a list of things you can do right away... GET TO IT and have a HAPPY EARTH DAY.... EVERY DAY !!

Touched by the Wind & the Sea

2011-04-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Re-decorating the living room in our seaside cottage has been my creative project this past week in between managing my jewelry business and I thought I'd share some of my favorite images along the way. Florida's light is so bright and nature's colors so vivid I hope it inspires you to -- Celebrate Color & Live Happy!

Palm Trees, Ocean Breezes, Sun and Sand


Southermost Point Cafe Beach, Key West


Marathon Key, FL

A Tropic State of Mind


Little Torch Key, FL


Key West, FL

Springtime Flowerburst


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Luscious Pink Guava


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Hear the Ocean Calling

Little Torch Key, FL


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Beachcomber

Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Dream in Color


Half Buck Freddies design store in Key West


Key West Style store in Key West

Sandy Beach

Key West Style Store in Key West

Tropical Island Brights


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry


Half Buck Freddies in Key West


Key West Characters


Mother daughter Flower Bracelets ~ Nancy Yuskaitis Jewelry

Tampa, FL

2011-04-06T07:55:00.000-07:00


Bayshore view towards Downtown Tampa

We recently enjoyed visiting Tampa, FL for the week. Although it rained varying degrees from light sprinkles to raging downpours with thunder and lightening there was also tornado warnings, heavy wind, flooded streets and power outages.

We still managed to go out and enjoy a few restaurants at night and catch up on our visiting. These photo's are from this visit and previous ones when the weather was beautiful.

One evening we had a fabulous time at Bin 27 Bistro in Hyde Park. It's a beautiful modern restaurant with wonderful service. We chose to order from the Tasting Tuesday menu which included a wine pairing with every course that was perfectly matched to complement each dish. The Lemongrass-Chili Butternut Squash Soup was amazing as was the Chocolate Expresso Tres Leche Cake and the Citrus Beignets with Orange Sherbert. The Blackened Tilefish was too blackened for our taste so the next time I'd order lightly blackened but the overall dining experience was very special and so was the company. Cheers!


Hidden Garden Pool


Spanish mossy trees


Downtown Tampa in front of the Children's Museum


Downtown Sunset


Hyde Park Village


Hidden Garden Pool on a rainy afternoon


Tampa Bay


Tree-lined Streets

On the First Day of Spring

2011-03-20T15:15:00.000-07:00


MARATHON KEY

HAPPY SPRING!
Spring arrived today as I prepare to leave this snow-filled ski town for a warmer climate. Although usually sunny days and the bluest of skies surround us in the winter in between snow storms lasting only a few days, the cloudy gray skies and feet of white snow everywhere is inspiring my daydreams and night time dreams with visions of the ocean, palm trees and bright vivid shades of citrus, hot pink and blue.


MY FESTIVE ISLAND BEACH JEWELRY

Although skiing has been wonderful and winter has been filled with many festive celebrations its season is coming to an end in a few weeks. I find I am spending time longing for the familiar scenery of my home state of Florida and the exotic tropical lifestyle of the Florida Keys and Key West.


LITTLE TORCH KEY

My mind transports me with anticipation to bike rides in the warm sunshine, fresh seafood caught that day and seaside sunsets with friends over a refreshing cocktail. Outdoor tiki bar style dining and dancing, fabulous live music, boat rides and and picnic island.


LITTLE TORCH KEY

My imagination is filled with ideas and colors to update our seaside home ... a Retro Island Cottage that is filled with a collection of happy memories, photo's, gifts and family hand me downs from both sides adding to its eclectic tropical ambiance.


MY ISLAND BEACH JEWELRY


LITTLE TORCH KEY

Some of the most cherished items are a swizzle stick collection from my dad's many travels in the 60's and 70's, a watercolor painting of his former home in the Abaco's on the sweet little island of Hope Town and a collection of Bahamian cocktail recipes on fabric swatches that I have framed and displayed. A beautiful large wooden fish serving platter hangs on the wall in the dining room and pretty silver glass cups used daily are from my in-laws.


BAHIA HONDA STATE PARK


PICNIC ISLAND, LITTLE TORCH KEY

If I were there right now I could describe many more sentimental items and maybe one day when I am sitting there writing I will take photo's and share them with you.

Cheers! Here's to a Happy Spring filled with new beginnings!

MY DISPLAY FOR "A TASTE OF ART" SHOW


LITTLE TORCH KEY, FLA KEYS


MARATHON KEY

Snow-capped in Crested Butte

2011-03-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

As Spring is approaching and the snow is starting to melt on these warm 40 degree afternoons I thought I'd share some of the sights from this winter. One of my favorite activities besides designing jewelry and writing is photography and I am rarely without my camera. This winter has provided many beautiful scenes to capture on my way to and from the mountain or town, while skiing, snowshoeing and on my way to the post office to pick up our mail as there is no mail delivery in this little mountain town. It's always a bit like grand central station to go stand in line and visit with many friends and neighbors. I hope you enjoy looking at these snow days and experience a bit of wintertime in Crested Butte, Colorado.

Thanks for visiting! Cheers!


Sweet foxes in our backyard


My snowflake pendant


Elk Avenue ~ Main Street Downtown


CBMR


Back door visitor


Blue Snowflake Pendant


View from Red Lady Lift


View of neighbor's home looking out our front window


Fat Tues Parade


Show-off at the Ice Bar


Pink Snowflake Pendant


Neighbors


Backyard Sunset


CBMR


Elk Avenue Downtown Crested Butte


Avalanche Restaurant on the Mountain


Mt. Crested Butte


The Ice Bar at Crested Butte Mountain Resort


House in Town


Winter Sunset


On the Lower Loop


Our dog, Summer


Entrance to Mt. Crested Butte


House in town


The Joy Warrior Gallery in the center


Crested Butte Mountain Resort


Friends home in town


Friends home in Mt. Crested Butte


Condo in Mt. Crested Butte

The life and studio of a creative soul

2011-02-28T22:12:00.000-08:00


Mt. Crested Butte, CO


Summer Island Mountain Girl


Turquoise Ultra Midi Drop Earrings


Mt. Crested Butte, Colorado


Tropic Midi Drop Earrings


The view outside, Mt. Crested Butte, CO

The life of a creative soul is a busy one especially when you work at home. My studio is a happy place filled with colorful glass for fusing in various sizes and stages of design and there are bins and drawers filled with jewelry supplies including beads of all types in every color.


My postcard collection


...more post card collection.

It's a cozy place to work even in winter with 10 feet of snow outside, the walls are painted soft creamy yellow, rusty red and deep sage green and are covered with artwork from friends, paintings, wildflowers posters, photographs of family, art design books, a key west calender, and my post card collection from all over the US and quite a few countries I've visited.


Handmade art by Laura from Joy Warrior Gallery, Crested Butte, Colorado

Being the visual creative soul that I am, I love the stimulation I receive from artwork and color everywhere. My thoughts and eyes can dart from one vibrantly colorful place to another but when it needs a visual rest there's the breathtaking view outside to gaze at.


The view outside, Crested Butte, CO


Cobalt Blue Dazzle Earrings


Elk Avenue Downtown Crested Butte, CO

In the mountains, one day it may be snowing large clumpy snowflakes and the next day may be the bluest sky you've ever seen. On an island, one day there may be a light, gentle breeze and the ocean is like glass and the next a gale force wind is blowing the outdoor furniture over on it's side and white capped waves are crashing over the dock. I just love the contrast of it all.

Sunset view Mt. Crested Butte, CO

Working at home in both environments gives me many occasions to venture outside and enjoy the day. I just have to remind myself to do so because my days are a crazy mixture of glasswork, beading, healthy cooking, business, laundry, marketing, bookkeeping, inspiration, correspondence, housework, photography, hot tea breaks, trips to the post office, daydreaming about the children's books I'm working on and of course making time for outdoor play...skiing, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, boating or going to the gym.


Nordic Skiing, Crested Butte, CO

Did I mention I also share my studio space with my husband, a lifelong casual musician. There are guitars and concert posters on half of the room and a living room arrangement, with a couch, chairs and a coffee table with tree bark legs. It's a quiet spot for reading or contemplation or a loudly inspired place when I turn up the blues tunes or island beach music.


Sky Blue Midi Drop Earrings

If you agree my days are busy then you'll believe me when I say my nights are busy too! I love great restaurants, live music and live performances such as dance, plays or comedy and movies so even though I may live in two small towns there always is something to do to inspire and enjoy!
Wishing you days and nights filled with fun and entertainment that you love!
Live happy,
Nancy

What inspires me ... Tropical Retro Style

2011-02-23T09:57:00.000-08:00


Ocean Sunset Necklace

As a Florida native, the tropics are a big part of my life and what inspires me. Early photo's of me are on the beach in Miami and the Florida Keys. I have always lived near the ocean at least part of the year and enjoy the seaside lifestyle although it can vary depending on where you are. Every coastal community is unique although they all have beautiful beaches...great seafood and gorgeous green foliage and fragrant colorful gardens.

Ocean Sunset Bracelet

I love designing Island Inspired Jewelry because it reminds me of my Spring and Summer favorites ...tropical getaways...beach days...boat rides...sunsets over the ocean...aquamarine sparkling seas...sun drenched tropical cottages...beach walks...fresh local seafood...seaside parties...picnic island...beach music...swaying palm trees...swimming the coral reefs...dolphin sightings...vibrant flowering plants...the sound of crashing waves and tropical inspired art.


Ultra Tangerine Earrings

This week I have been busy designing jewelry for an online Key West gift shop which sells unique art including beautiful paintings, festive ceramics, local books, delicious cakes, jewelry and much more...


Tropical Lime Dazzle Earrings

My designs this week have featured two gorgeous seaside shades ~ Turquoise and Orange,
both vibrant like sunsets over the ocean but with a retro yet fresh modern feel. I call it Tropical Retro Style.


Ultra Sea Breeze Earrings

I hope you will visit www.viakeywest.com and enjoy looking around at all the unique and fun tropical gifts and maybe find something for yourself or a special someone. Be Well and Live Happy!

www.viakeywest.com


Tangerine Sunshine Earrings


Ultra Key Lime Earrings

Honeysuckle Pink ~ Color of the Year 2011

2011-02-21T21:49:00.000-08:00

"The purest and most thoughtful minds are those which love color the most." John Ruskin

This year Pantone has chosen Honeysuckle Pink as the color of the year!
It is a festive contemporary burst of color and a reminder that summer is on it's way. This warm reddish pink is described as optimistic & positive, uplifting our spirit to handle the challenges of everyday life.

It is a stimulating color that will brighten and energize your home or your wardrobe when used as an accent color on walls, accessories, clothing or jewelry. It's a joyful shade that looks great on everyone.

Leatrice Eiseman, color specialist and executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, said, “It’s not quite as hot as a hot pink, it has slight coral-ly undertones, which gives it some warmth. It’s what a lot of people find appealing.”

Pink conveys compassion and an open heart and is a soothing color on physical, mental and emotional levels. It is calming, reducing stress while increasing relaxation and also heals grief and sadness. It's associated with caring, nurturing, peace and kindness.

In Feng Shui, Pink is believed to increase relaxation and is the universal color of Love.

Its gentle and delicate feng shui vibrations have a proven soothing effect on one's behavior. You could almost say that, as a feng shui color, Pink literally soothes the heart and fills it with love!

If you love pink then this is your year to express it in clothing, jewelry and around your home or office. Pair it with aqua and orange for an exotic inspired combo or with turquoise and yellow and add a neutral like sand or white. I will be experimenting with this coral rose combined with greens, blues and purples for Spring and Summer Jewelry. Stay tuned...
Live Happy and Enjoy!

It's your Birthday...Wish Big & Shine!

2011-02-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

Birthdays give you reason to reflect on life and since I just celebrated mine this month I thought I'd share my wishes for your birthday this year.

Enjoy Life & Live Happy!

Birthday To-Do List

Hope

Laugh

Dance

Count your Blessings

Share Joy

Feel Beautiful

Be Inspired

Do What You Love

Imagine

Sing

Be Yourself

Smile

Accept Love

Eat Good Food

Celebrate

Laugh Louder

Dream in Color

Love Life

You Can Never have too Much Happy!

2011 ~ A New Year

2011-01-04T14:52:00.000-08:00

Ski Days Snowflake Necklace

As a new year arrives and I reflect back on 2010 and the many opportunities to grow and expand into new venues with new designs my mind wanders back through the highlights of a festive busy year. Thank you to all who supported, encouraged and collected my artwork, I truly appreciate you.


Entry for SoDu Gallery's show "From a Woman's Hand."

In the spring, I entered the "From a Woman's Hand" show at the lower Duval Street Sodu Gallery in Key West and managed to have the same necklace sold twice during the one night show and a new place to show my jewelry.

AWEfest 2010 Crested Butte, CO

Necklace display at Pfister's Handworks, Crested Butte, CO

Mt. Crested Butte in the Fall

Lavish on Elk Avenue in Crested Butte has been a great supporter of my jewelry since the beginning by carrying pendant necklaces and earrings and I look forward
to continuing that relationship this year.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

A trip to San Francisco in the Fall inspired the new City Lights Collection, which was popular this holiday season as was the fresh Retro Style for Modern Girls.

A Snowy Mt. Crested Butte

Thanking musician Paul Thorn with necklaces for his wife and daughters in Crested Butte, CO

2010 Motown in the Mountains, Crested Butte, CO Jewelry donation

Fla Keys Sunset

ART-rageous Day of Art, Crested Butte, CO

Ocean Sunset Necklaces for Margaritaville.com 2010

Key Lime Drop Earrings for 2011 www.Margaritaville.com

A Taste of Art Private Show in Key West

During the month of May, I was thrilled to be the featured artist at "A Taste of Art" at the Simonton Court Inn in Key West for an evening event of tropical poolside art.

SoDu Gallery on Duval Street, Key West

Mosaic Necklace for wwww.viakeywest.com

www.Viakeywest.com started carrying custom selections of my Sea Shades Island Style Jewelry on their online gift boutique and in mid December it was an honor to be the Artist of the Day.

AWEfest in Crested Butte, Colorado

In the mountains of Crested Butte, during the summertime there were outdoor art shows to participate in including the ART-rageous Day of Art at the Center for the Arts, AWEfest on Elk Avenue and even a Sunday or two at the CB Farmer's Market.

New Earrings for Boondocks Gift Shop on Ramrod Key, Fla Keys

Bohemian Style Necklaces for Stone Soup Gallery in Key West

Bohemian Style Jewelry at the Stone Soup Gallery in Key West as I enjoyed being a featured artist in November for the Walk on White Artwalk.

Sailboats and Palm Trees for Boondocks Gift Shop, Ramrod Key, FLa Keys

Boondocks beautiful new tiki style Gift Shop on Ramrod Key now offers my Island Style designs including whimsical sailboats, tropical palm tree necklaces and colorful new dangle earrings designed for a Fla Keys style attitude.

New www.Margaritaville.com Necklace

www.Margaritaville.com has been an exciting new venue featuring tropical inspired jewelry for their Made in Key West online shopping store. Currently I have a necklace, bracelet and earrings available with new designs arriving every few months.

Orders ready to deliver to Margaritaville in Key West

SoDu Gallery, Key West, FL

Sea Glass Shimmer ~ Island Style Collection

Margaritaville Turquoise Bracelet~ Made in Key West


City Lights Collection

Island Girl Bracelets at Stone Soup Gallery, Key West

Bracelets were BIG this year featuring lots of turquoise, coral, wood and shell beads coordinating with necklaces or earrings and Mother-Daughter sets were also popular.

Little Palm Island Resort, Little Torch Key, Fla Keys

On a private island on Little Torch Key, the Little Palm Island Resort gift shop has been selling my original fused glass palm tree necklaces providing far away travelers a reminder of their tropical getaway.

Fused Glass Palm Tree Necklaces for Little Palm Island Resort Gift Shop, Fla Keys