Stella & Dot Sample Sale!

I know - it's 100 degrees in the shade and summer has just barely begun BUT, it is time to start thinking Fall Fashion - and time for a SALE! I need to make room in my display for these beautiful new styles,

so it is time to sell some of these gorgeous pieces! I have marked down many of the items from my current display, some items that are being discontinued, some are already no longer available and I am passing the savings on to you. These are a few of the pieces that I have that are retiring, if you are interested in purchasing or would like more information about more of the items I have for sale, please leave me a comment with your contact information and I will be in touch with you ASAP! OH! Did I mention - NO TAX and NO SHIPPING (for local customers) on these items I have in stock!!

Sofia Cluster Ring - Smoky WAS $39 NOW $29

Rich cashmere hues in freshwater pearls and smoky glass beads. 1.25" cluster. Adjustable brass band fits ring sizes 5-9

Della Triple Strand Necklace WAS $98 NOW $73

Triple the beauty with luxe glass pearls and faceted smoky glass beads. Shortest strand is 22.75", longest strand 25" with extender. Toggle closure.

Sofia Cluster Bracelet - Smoky WAS $79 NOW $59

Hundreds of hand wrapped freshwater pearls and smoky glass baubles cluster together. Stretchable bracelet adjusts to fit with a 2.5" inner diameter.

Uma Silk Wrap Necklace WAS $49 NOW $37

Irresistible eye candy of dip-dyed silk-covered beads create one of a kind gradients of hot pink to light pink. Can be worn long or doubled, or add the Uma Flower for a stunning look. Approximately 30" bead length. Self-tie closure. 14.75" ribbon length.

Uma Flower WAS $39 NOW $29

Not for shrinking violets, this fuchsia silk brooch with chic frayed edges sparkles with hand-set Swarovski crystals. Pin on your lapel, hair or necklace. Shapeable petals. 4 - 4.5" diameter, brass pin.

Sayulita Statement Necklace WAS $178 NOW $98

Warm wood beads, cool Swarvoski crystals, and turquoise beads - hot couture style on a grosgrain ribbon. Individual as you are, each bead is sewn by hand, each stone is handset. Strand length: shortest 20", middle 23", longest 25.75". Ribbon - 15" length, 1.25" wide.

Cortez Bib Necklace WAS $148 NOW $74

Bold and oh-so boho, a mosaic sea of glass beads and malachite adorn luscious chocolate suede. Handmade in our couture embroidery factory. Approximately 19" of suede on each side of 3.25" wide bib. Self-tie.

Cortez Cuff WAS $118 NOW $59

An off-the-cuff statement of turquoise, glass and wood beads on supple leather. Handmade in our couture embroidery factory. Approximately 7.5" length, 3" width. Adjustable, 2 settings. Fits small to medium wrists.

Palm Necklace with Starfish Brooch WAS $98 NOW $73

This season's hottest color, chartreuse, looks Palm-Beachy with the Starfish brooch dotted by hand-set pave crystals. Glass beads on hand-knotted silk thread. Length approximately 59.5". Lobster clasp closure.

Boca Necklace with Bee Brooch WAS $98 NOW $73

Create a buzz with this whimsical brooch dotted with enamel beads. Worn attached to the glass bead necklace on hand-knotted silk thread. Length 59.9". Lobster clasp closure.

Even if you don't live near me, you can take advantage of the summer Style for a Steal Sale! Just go to my website - www.stelladot.com/sherririce and click on the "sale" tab. I can save you some on shipping - just enter my name when it asks for your Hostess, then your shipping will be a flat rate of $5.95. Your order will ship directly to you (you choose the address!) Priority Mail and you will receive your order in just a few days (usually 3 to 4 business days)

Where have I been???

I can't believe it has been so long since I have checked in with y'all! (I hope I still have more than one person that checks in on me!) Things have been a little crazy around our house. Let me catch you up on our family.

On Sunday April 11th we had an absolutely beautiful day. The weather had been very cold up to that point, and it seemed that it either rained or snowed every weekend! So on this particular Sunday my Handsome Prince decided to take full advantage of the warm, sunny day and get some much needed yard work done. He cleaned the front porch and pulled weeds out of the flower beds and even mowed the lawn.

At about 11 in the morning he didn't feel good. Sort of short of breath and just not "good" so he decided to take a little break. He grabbed a bottle of water and sat on the porch for a little while and started feeling better so he went back to working. That happened a couple more times and the shortness of breath became more of a tightness in his chest. Hmm, maybe this is something more than just 'working in the yard for the first time this year' aches and pains.

He decided it was time to call it a day with the yard work around 2. Came in, cleaned up and then sat in the chair for a few minutes. Still didn't feel good. I began with the list of questions - "Does your left arm feel numb? Are you nauseous? Dizzy?" No, to all of the above. He decided maybe he should check his Blood Pressure - it was 166 over 100. Okay, we are going to the Emergency Room - NOW! We arrived at the hospital a few minutes before 3 and by 3:05 we were in a room and he was hooked up to more monitors than I could count.

We were VERY fortunate that we didn't wait any longer than we did. The first blood test they did showed no enzymes, but because they couldn't rule out the heart as the source for his discomfort they decided to admit him overnight for observation. They did three more blood tests during the night and each time the enzyme level was a little higher. My Handsome Prince had a Heart Attack. They scheduled more tests Monday to determine where the blockage was and how much blockage he had. They had thought they could just do a stent (stint?) and all would be fine. Unfortunately, the blockage was 95% in his main artery, and 40 and 45% in two other arteries on the left side. Bypass surgery was the best option and scheduled for Tuesday Morning.

The Medical Staff at Mercy Hospital is just phenomenal! We were so Blessed to be cared for by highly qualified Doctors and Nurses. Everyone was so kind to us and very good to explain all of the different procedures and what we could expect. This is scary new territory! We are getting through it though, and Larry is feeling MUCH better. He even went back to work for a few hours yesterday! (We both work for my Parents, so you don't have to worry that he overdid it. He went to the office to get caught up on the projects we have going on and then came home to rest.)

This has certainly caused us to put things in perspective. You really can not take ANYTHING for granted! Tomorrow is not promised to anyone. We are making some changes for the good in our lives. There will be a LOT less stress and a LOT MORE family time. Larry and I want to Thank all of you that carried us through this in prayer. We appreciate you! I'll check in again soon!

Stella & Dot Trunk Show

Stella & Dot recently released their spring jewelry line, and I am currently hosting a Trunk Show at our art gallery, Big Red Gallery & Gifts.

It is the perfect setting for this beautiful jewelry!

I have a large area to display the jewelry along with the gift items that the Gallery carries.

The framed and unframed art work is on the second floor.

I have a little "Sale" area set up just inside the door.

These are pieces that have been discontinued from the fall line. I have them discounted and I am offering them as cash and carry for my Customers. Several of these pieces are sold out and no longer available through my Stella & Dot website - Collector's items!!

Stella & Dot has many items that are perfect for your casual every day wardrobe, and can easily transition to a fabulous date night or special occasion accessories. If you know of someone getting married soon we have several items that are perfect for the Bride and Bridesmaids.

Necklaces, Bracelets, rings and our charm collection!

These are just a few of the gold chains and earrings.

A little something for everyone!

Bracelets and charms.

Soiree Bracelets in every color!

Our Charm Collection continues to be one of our top sellers. Available in Sterling Silver or Gold Vermeil (ver-may) you can create a look that is unique for you, or someone special!

The Palm necklace with Starfish Brooch and matching Starfish earrings.

A few of our Sterling Silver chains and earrings.

Looking for something to go with your Easter outfit? I bet we can find the perfect accessory for you!

At a Stella & Dot Trunk show you can try on all of the jewelry so you are sure to fall in love with something that is just right for YOU! Once we place your order it will ship directly to you in just a few days and arrive in your mailbox within the week. Everything ships in adorable little boxes - just add a ribbon and you are good to give!

Each month we have a few special offers for our Customers. We call these Trunk Show Treasures and this month you can take advantage of a 25% discount on these smoky styles. The Smokky Drop Earrings, Della Triple Strand Necklace and Smoky Cluster Bracelet look great with a variety of colors.

I would LOVE to help you earn FREE jewelry while you and your friends enjoy a Girls Night IN!

There is no boring presentation to sit through, just a fun couple of hours trying on jewelry and gabbing with the Girls. Schedule your personal shopping date and get an extra prize from me - it could be up to $30 off of your order!!

If you want to see more please visit my website - www.stelladot.com/sherririce

or leave me a comment and I will be happy to answer any questions you have!

Northwest Arkansas Wine Opener

If you live in NW Arkansas and you are wondering what to do tonight I have a suggestion for you! The Northwest Arkansas Wine Opener to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is being held this evening at the Doubletree Guest Suites in Bentonville. The event is business casual attire and begins with a VIP Reception at 6:00 pm and the Wine Opener begins at 7:00 pm. Participants can bid on auction items, sample wines and enjoy gourmet cuisine by Crabby's, Mimi's Cafe, Johnny Brusco's Pizza, Table Mesa, Basil's and Happas Hawaiian Grill.

This is a casual and fun evening where participants can Sip Fun Wines at various tasting stations presented by international and domestic wineries. The area's hottest chefs prepare their specialties so that guests can Savor Great Cuisine. Guests that purchase the VIP ticket will be treated to a special tasting of exclusive reserve wines and exquisite food pairings furnished by Ruth's Chris at the VIP Reception.

A Silent Auction is also held during the event. Volunteers gather donations from various businesses throughout the area. I became involved with the Wine Opener a few years ago. A friend of mine has an amazing daughter that is fighting CF. Mackenzie is an inspiration to everyone she meets! This year I have donated the Charlize Wood Necklace from my Stella & Dot business. I will also include the matching Charlize Teardrop Earrings for the winning bidder when they invite a few of their friends over for a private showing of the Stella & Dot collection.

So if you are out and about this evening and would like to contribute to a wonderful cause I hope you will consider stopping by The Wine Opener. If you would like more information about the event you can go HERE. If you would like more information about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation please visit their website or call 1-800-FIGHT-CF

American Idol Top 24: Men's Night

Last night we were a little disappointed with the Top 12 girls, so tonight is the guys night to shine. I don't really remember any of the male contestants that were chosen, so I am looking forward to tonight's show. So without further ado,

THIS is American Idol!

First up tonight is Todrick Hall from Arlington TX. He is a 24 year old writer. Actor. Dancer. You will remember that Todrick is the one that auditioned performing an original song he wrote "Todrick is my name" Tonight he chose the Kelly Clarkson hit "Since you been gone" I'm afraid Todrick may be tomorrow.

Aaron Kelly is 16 years old from Sonestown, PA. He performed Rascal Flatts "Here comes goodbye" and we really liked it. The Judges did not. The disagreement begins early tonight!

Jermaine Sellers is a 27 year old Church Singer from Joliet, IL. He sang "Get here" and parts it of were good, but parts of it were really pitchy. I think he can sing, just maybe wasn't the right song, so I hope he gets another chance.

Tim Urban is 20 years old from Duncanville, TX. He was originally cut during Hollywood week but caught a break and was called back to replace someone. After his performance of "Apologize" I think he should-TO US! Didn't care for this at all.

Joe Munoz from Huntington Park, CA is 20 years old. He performed "You and I" and did a terrific job! I really enjoyed his voice. I did not agree with Simon at all on this one.

Tyler Grady from Nazareth, PA is a 20 year old caught in a 70's time warp. All during Hollywood week he caused quite a stir with his fashion statements and performances. Tonight he stayed true to form with "American Woman" I think he is in trouble.

Lee Dewyse is 23 years old from Chicago, IL. I like the song he sang, but I was "farming" on Farmville and trying to take notes and alas, my multi-tasking caught up with me! So sorry.

John Park was next up. He is the 21 year old from Northbrook, IL that auditioned with Shania Twain as a guest judge and she just loved him. Tonight he sang "God bless the child" and I don't think it worked for him. Bless his heart.

Michael Lynche is the 26 year Personal Trainer from St. Petersburg, Fl whose wife had their first child while he was auditioning. He sang "This Love" by Maroon 5 and the judges weren't crazy about his song choice. I thought he did good and I think his personal story will get him at least one more chance next week.

Alex Lambert is 19 years old from North Richland Hills, TX. That's all I've got. Oops.

Casey James is 27 years old from Fort Worth, TX. Here's the one to beat folks! He performed the Bryan Adams classic "Heaven". And we were! OH.MY.GOODNESS!!! LIKE. A LOT.

Andrew Garcia was the final contestant tonight and bless his heart he had to try to top that performance by our next Idol. Andrew is 24 years old from Moreno Valley, CA. He performed "We're going down" Yeah, I think you are.

Okay that does it for the boys! Who do you like? I would have to say Crystal Bowersox is my favorite girl this week and Casey James is my favorite over all. What are your thoughts?

Let's discuss!!

It's time for Season Nine! Top 24, Girls Night

It's time for some Idol! I don't know about you, but I'm excited about the talent this season! I am also pleasantly surprised by the newest Judge, Ellen. There seems to be a much more relaxed, easy and constructive discussion among the four Judges this year. It's nice to be able to watch the show and listen to their opinions and not do the eye roll every time Paula opened her mouth.

We've enjoyed watching the tryouts and the gruelling Hollywood week drama. Now we are ready to get down to business! It's the Top 24 and the women will perform hits from the Billboard Charts first. According to Simon this is the Girls year! So let's get down to business...

Paige Miles is 24 years old from Naples, FL. She started the night out with It's alright now by Free. I thought she did pretty good considering the first one to go HAS to have a case of nerves.

Ashley Rodriguez is a 22 year old student from Chelsea, MA. She chose Happy by Leona Lewis and I don't think it was the best song choice for her. I think she may be UNhappy on Thursday night.

Janell Wheeler is a 24 year old Wine Sales Rep from Orlando, FL. Janell made another poor song choice by going with What about Love by Heart. How many seasons are we going to have to tell you DON'T choose a song bigger than you!

Lilly Scott from Littleton, CO has seen the most dramatic change in her life since auditioning for AI. She is a 20 year old and has been living out of her car and performing anywhere and everywhere. For her performance tonight she chose Fixin a Hole by The Beatles. I didn't care for it and I didn't like the strange facial expressions she made while she was singing, but the Judges loved it. This won't be the only time we disagree tonight!

Katelyn Epperly from West Des Moines, IA is a 19 year old College Student. She sang the second Beatles song of the night, O Darlin. She did good enough that I want to hear her again next week.

Haeley Vaughn is the baby of the group at 16. She is from Fort Collins, CO and she performed the third Beatles song of the night, I want to Hold your Hand. I'm not sure it was good enough for another chance next week.

Lacey Brown is a 24 year old Event Coordinator from Amarillo, TX. She tried out last year and was cut during Hollywood week. She SANG Landslide by Fleetwood Mac. Her performance was the first one that I really enjoyed of the night and the Judges were not fans. I hope she makes it through.

Michelle Delamar from Miami, Fl is 22 and works in a clothing store among other things. She chose Falling by Alicia Keyes and I thought did a great job.

Didi Benami is a 23 year old Waitress from Knoxville, TN. She has had a very emotional journey - her friend died and she is doing this to honor her memory. She kind of reminds me of Brooke White from a few seasons back (7? with Cook?) I like her and I liked her performance of The Way I am.

Siobhan Magnus was the surprise of the night for me. She is 19 years old, a Glass Blowing Apprentice from Cape Cod, MA. She chose Wicked Game by Chris Isaac and I thought it was FANtastic! Very Good.

Crystal Bowersox is 24 years old, a Musician and a Mom from Ellistan, OH. I noticed her in the audition show, and also during Hollywood week and really liked her. I think she will really do well. Her performance of Hand in My Pocket was just incredible tonight. Did I mention that she played the guitar AND the harmonica? She is definitely talented.

Katie Stevens was the final performance of the evening. She is a 17 year old High School Student from Middlebury CT. She sang Feelin Good by Michael Buble' and I felt like she did very good, but the Judges disagreed with me again on this one. They thought the song was too old for her, that she needed to be 17. I hope she gets another chance!

Over all I thought the night was pretty good, started out a little slow but by the end of the night it was very entertaining. I think that Ashley, Janell and Haeley are probably in the most danger. I would say that Didi and Crystal are my favorites right now, and Siobhan is my dark horse!

Now it's your turn - let's discuss! What are your thoughts on Season 9? Leave me a comment with your Idol thoughts.

Stella & Dot: Your Passport to STYLE!

I am SO excited about the new Spring 2010 line that will be released by Stella & Dot on January 15th! The theme for this Look Book is "Your Passport to Style" and is inspired by the vivid colors, rich cultures and strong women around the world. Bold. Worldly. Whimsical. Fabulous!

Here are just a few of my new favorite things...

Azure Couture Earrings

The Cortez Bib Necklace and matching Cortez Cuff

Summer Soiree bracelet

Bardot Spiral Bangle

Palm Necklace with starfish brooch. The necklace is LONG and can be worn so many ways! The brooch is removable.

Matching Starfish earrings

The Uma flower can be clipped in you hair or pinned on to anything!

Like the Uma Silk wrap Necklace

I would love to assist you and your Girlfriends at your own private trunk show. Everything is SO MUCH prettier in person! I am currently scheduling shows for February and March. You get to try on as many of my samples as you like and earn FREE and half-price jewelry just for inviting me. The orders will ship directly to your guests, so you don't have any delivery hassles. This is great Customer Service, especially if you have family and friends all over the country, they can order from your show so that you get credit for the sale and their order goes right to their home for no additional shipping fee.

I am also available for fundraisers. If your group or organization is holding a fundraiser this spring I would be interested in talking with you about a donation! You can leave me a comment here on this post or go to my website www.stelladot.com/sherririce and contact me there.

***EDITED TO ADD***

"If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:17-18

I feel a little silly for being so excited about this jewelry when there is such devastation in Haiti right now. I want to do something to help, so I have decided to donate my commission from my show sales for the rest of the month to Compassion. If you would like to do a little shopping and in the process help me to raise some money for the disaster relief effort just go to my website and in the top right hand corner click on "find your hostess" Type in Sherri Rice and then begin shopping. Because the need for funds is urgent NOW, I will close this party on the 31st of this month. If we have a good response I will create a new fundraiser the first of February.

If you would prefer to just contribute to Compassion, go Here to make your donation.

Thank you