Toaster's Transformations Giveaway!

Friends, I'm so excited to introduce you to the sweetest gal, that I just adore... sweet Amanda, from "And They Will Become One Flesh"... she just rocks. She's been with me through our entire adoption process... praying, donating amazing goodies for the little orphans in Ukraine, and always saying the sweetest things. She's actually expecting herself, and might I just say... her bump is adorable... you can see for yourself!

Amanda recently opened up her very own shop on etsy... filled with beautiful upcycled creations. She sure knows how to take an old t-shirt and turn it into a beautiful headband. Not only is her shop filled with bright and one-of-a-kind creations, but Amanda has an amazing heart for the Lord. So without further adieu... come get to know her a little...

Give us 5 words that describe yourself: Affectionate, enthusiastic, thrifty, welcoming, crafty

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? HERE, I love living in Erie, PA. Many people don't like it because of the snow we get during the winter, but, at least we don't have tornados, hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, etc. I love the change of the seasons. My husband and I also have a great community here of family, friends and church family.

Hidden talents? I can tap dance. Well, I used to tap dance and would love to pick it up again someday. My heart pines for dancing when I watch So You Think You Can Dance, especially when I see tappers.

When did you set up shop? For quite some time, I had wanted to set up a shop of things I made from repurposed/upcycled/thrifted materials. Unfortunately, I was very nervous about setting up shop and held off for a while. Then, my husband and I found out that we were pregnant and I knew I wanted a way to stay home with our little one. So in June I opened up my shop. What a blessing it has been! It's been a great creative outlet for me. I've been enjoying taking articles of clothing and unwanted fabrics and transforming them into something else. God is sooo good.

Which is your favorite creation? (you know we all have favorites!) Good question! I haven't really thought about it before, but I think my favorite may be either the Ilene Blossom or the Ashley Headband. Love them both very much.

(this one is one of my favorites... love the vibrant color!)

Why handmade? My husband and I are trying very hard to start supporting more local businesses. Our economy isn't going to recover when our country isn't producing anything anymore. So I'm trying to do my part to help our economy and also to be a good steward of the things that God has given me. I know these things are not my own but just able to be used by me. So I'm trying very hard not to be wasteful of the resources that I have. Plus, aren't handmade gifts always the best???

Anything you can share withthose that are wanting to set up shop? tips? I wish I had more tips but having just set up my shop I don't have too many. One tip is to get involved in the great handmade community. I've made some great friends who have encouraged me so much *cough* Karen *cough*. I would also say that if you are on the border of starting a shop, pray about it, but if there is not a reason you can see not to start up, take a risk and just enjoy the journey! Even if you don't sell right away, don't get discouraged. I know that I am just enjoying this creative outlet God has given me. Keep focusing on Him and delighting in Him. Remember He is where you get your worth, not your blog or shop.

Didn't I tell you she's adorable? I'm really hoping this winter, that I'll be able to visit with her... snow and all! And just for one of you lucky readers, Amanda is giving away $20.00 shop credit!

Here's how to enter (get an entry for each one you do):

- Visit Amanda's shop, and let me know which item is your favorite.

- Follow this blog via GFC, and leave a separate comment telling me you do.

- Follow Amanda's blog, and leave a comment telling me you do.

- Follow me on twitter.

- Follow Amanda on twitter.

- Tweet about this giveaway and leave a separate comment (or facebook it!)

That gives you 6 different ways to enter this lovely giveaway... so get to it! It'll close on Sept. 26th... winner announced on the 27th!