Moobie Grace Designs

Lori Anderson's 5th Bead Soup Blog Party - REVEAL!!!!

2012-03-03T00:00:00.055-05:00

YAY!!! It's Lori Anderson's bead soup reveal day! Honestly, I know I won't accomplish anything else but blog hopping today! There will be no doing laundry, dusting (ok...I don't do that anyway), and the family is definitely going to have to fend for themselves today...It's ok...I stocked up on ready to eat snacks, and dinner is in the crock pot!

First, and foremost a HUGE thank you to Lori!! I can't imagine after organizing a massive blog hop that she has a single nerve or a nary pink hair left on her pretty little head!! So for you Lori:

My BSBP partner is Jennifer Cameron of Glass Addictions. Awesome partner, who creates stunning lampwork beads and jewelry designs! After exchanging a few emails with Jen, I set of in search off the perfect soup mix for her. Here's what I came up with:

And the unbelievable soup beads I received from Jen:

When I received the coveted package, I held my breath as I lifted the lid! As soon as I picked my jaw up off of the ground, it hit (as it usually does)...this isn't what I had expected? In my own mind I had somehow picked out what Jennifer would send...am I the only one who does this? Even though I have no control over the selection my partner puts together, I still somehow think I'm in control of the situation! Yet more proof that this life is so unpredictable! This is when the reality of Bead Soup Blog Party quandary descends...and for me, it's the best part of the hop!! Reds, aquas, purples...oh my...now what?

Helping #1: As bad as this sounds...I don't wear earrings often. Stop "tsk-tsking" me! I think it comes from years of office work, and always having a phone glued to my ear. Many earring impressions later I just gave them up. Sure, I wear them when we're out on the town, but unfortunately we don't paint the town very often!

I like whimsical, not only in jewelry, but in every aspect of life, and these fit the bill perfectly! I had a couple of these brass starfish connectors laying around, and decided to use waxed cotton instead of head pins for more of a casual look and a lot more movement. Jen sent me the amethyst nuggets, Czech glass, labradorite, and pearls and I added pressed glass, candy jade, magnesite, impression jasper, Swarovski, and lavender Czech glass shells. Of course I had to add a little sari silk...it seems to creep into everything I create lately!

Helping #2:

I love bracelets!! I don't tend to make them often, as that's my husband's department, but since I keep my Bead Soup creations for myself, I went at it!

I adore these lampwork beads that Jen made and included in my soup! I'm not usually a red wearing girl, but I'll make an exception for these...maybe with the cute grey dress I have, yet never wear? Jen also sent the "dangles" of tiny dusty purple pearls and AB lavender Czech rounds. Also included in my soup mix, was a gorgeous pewter starfish clasp from Green Girl Studios. I love "sea side" inspired components, but I couldn't for the life in me create a piece using it as the toggle. Nothing seemed to "fit"...and after 3 failed attempts, I decided it would work best as a charm. Being pewter, it stands out among the copper, almost making it as much of a focal as the lampwork...PERFECT!! My all time favorite is coral. Seriously, I hoard it...have bins of it...every shape, color, and size, so I accented all the loveliness of the lampwork with a single organic coral bead! I recently tried my hand with Copprclay and using the bumps of Jen's beads as inspiration, made a sea urchin toggle clasp and a tiny little charm to complete the look (I know they're not the best, but I'm such a novice that it's not even comical). The toggle and clasp haven't been tumbled yet, hence the dull sheen....but I was impatient and wanted to get photos ASAP!

Helping #3: Quite possibly my favorite piece I've ever made for myself...which doesn't happen often! But when I signed up for my first BSBP, I promised myself that the beads I received, and the pieces I designed would be just for me!!

The lampwork focal that Jen sent is absolutely amazing, yet it intimidated the hell out of me! It sat on my bead table front and center for a few weeks...just taunting me! I didn't want to just put it on a chain and call it a day, because I knew it deserved more! It was destined to be a necklace, and I wanted it to be a signature, bold and artsy piece, 3 pounds of wasted copper wire later I came up with this! Again it sat on my work table...I had the focal wrapped, but now what? A few days later I was digging around in my mold container and spied tiny little resin frames that I had purchased (but forgotten about) to use for making molds, and the proverbial light bulb went off!

Just days ago, I blogged that I very rarely wear any of the typical dainty beads that I create...which seems insane to me. But, I'm a funky/bohemian type, and delicate just doesn't fit my personality, but I had an idea to make it work! I made tiny picture frames from polymer clay, grunged them up, drilled them, and inset little polymer clay embroidered flowers/vines into each frame. Dainty, yet more me! The dangles are a mix of all the soup Jen sent me (including a single blue kyanite...I'm hoarding the remaining four) and a few from my own stash. I've since relocated the teal shell spike to the other side as it distracted from the "crystal ball" lampwork, and we couldn't have that, now could we?

Group shot:

I never wear matching pieces...nor do I make them...it's against my religion! :) So, while I wouldn't wear all of these pieces at the same time, (wouldn't I look like the circus coming to town?) I love that I can switch them up, yet they all coordinate. Not to mention I think I found a favorite color palette of aqua and tomato red!

Last minute creation...Helping #4:

I finally decided what to do with the amazing blue kyanite that was included in my soup! I love these lampwork beads from my own stash, and Coppr Clay seashells that I made for these earrings. Everything will take a dip in liver of sulfur, but as usual I waited until I was completely out to order more!

Now, for a little sneak peak of a give away!

I decided to share the "leftovers" from my soup (labradorite, pearls, amethyst and Czech glass), and created a bracelet with one of my new framed embroidery beads to hang front and center. I'll give everyone a few days to blog hop before I post the actual give away. Stay tuned!

I apologize for the shoddy photography of the last two pictures...I really was in a hurry! I will retake pictures of the give away bracelet before I post the actual give away next week!

So, there you have it! I apologize for being long winded, especially since you have 200 other blogs to visit...but as usual, I'm usually the talker of the bunch!

Now, run along and check out all the other participants' creations!

Click on the pic for the participants!!

Could This Week Get Any Longer?

2012-03-01T23:24:00.000-05:00

Seriously...the longest week in history!! Saturday's Bead Soup Blog Party reveal is a little more than 24 hours away...the "hurry up and wait" syndrome is hitting me hard!

What better way to pass the time than to stroll down previous Bead Soup Lane?

My partner for the September 2011 BSBP was Tari Sasser of Creative Impressions In Clay...I always get a fabulous partner!! I mean, just take a look at the soup she sent!

And my creation. I wear this ALOT, In fact, just last week. I only completed one piece before reveal day, but I've since made myself a bracelet with the awesome tie dye beads from my soup...I need to get a picture posted.

And the soup I sent to Tari:

Tari worked miracles with my soup!

Now, rest up, and run back here, at midnight tomorrow (really 3/3/12) and get to blog hopping with me!

No Words

2012-02-29T20:02:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, there are no words...so pictures are the best way to get your thoughts out there. Today's one of those days!

One day, I hope that there won't be a reason to continue making these...

Where's My Medal?

2012-02-25T21:02:00.002-05:00

As of 11:20 a.m. tomorrow, February 26th, I will be the mother of 3 teenagers...with the last one only 2 years behind. That can't be right!?! There is NO way I can be that old!! Honestly, I just graduated high school, what? Maybe 5 years ago? Geez, where has the time gone?

I swear, he was just a little guy the last time I looked!

My wedding - 2004. The first guy who ever stole my heart. Honestly, he IS mine!

Ethan - My sweet boy 2008

My poor guy...he lives in a world of girls!! First day of school 2009.

May 2011

So, today's his day! Happy birthday to my newest teenager!!

(I won't embarrass him anymore...so I'll end this post now!)

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

2012-02-23T22:48:00.001-05:00

I'm feeling a little scatterbrained this evening...so you get a little bit of everything!

First, it's been a while since I shared what's been coming off of the bead table...so here ya go!

A little kooky...but I love little antique what-nots, so I had to have these vintage medicine bottle cut outs! Finished with brass, gold coral, yellow agate...and a cute little pill shaped wood bead...on sari silk. I love "odd" jewelry!

I see house shaped beads everywhere these days...so I decided to give it a go...Moobie style. Added orange glass faceted rounds, some Czech flowers, and lots of copper.

I can't wait for summer! Sea glass ladder necklace with brass/copper chain/chain and 2 little Czech glass flowers...hurry up summer!

My sweet children brought a bunch of shells back when they went to the beach last summer. They've been sitting around waiting for "their day" Shells, yellow agate, pearl, Czech oval, new jade and a sea urchin spine...I can already smell the salt of the ocean! All on brass and embellished with kelp-like sari silk.

Decided to go with a tribal flair. I found the naked lady (can you see the difference between her front & and her back?) Czech beads at the closest decent bead shop...wish I would have purchased more than one strand! Lots of copper, large orange swirled polymer bead, coin, mother of pearl spike and a touch of sari silk.

My only New Year's resolution was to branch out and buy more artisan beads...instead of ordering in bulk run of the mill type beads...boy is this a dangerous resolution! Here's what I received in the mail today:

Awesome lampwork from Pomegranate Glass

And these beauties from Golem Studio I was sad that another set I ordered sold out before my order was shipped...guess I have to be a little quicker on the draw!

And these are in route...

Also from Pomegranate Glass

Both from fellow Virginian Silverfish Designs

Now, I know I'm not suppose to show you my Bead Soup creations yet...but I'll give you just a little teaser...'cause I like you...

This one reminds me so much of my mom! She ALWAYS had a horseshoe hung above the most used door to bring good luck to all who entered...hence the horseshoe shapes. Her lucky number was 7...so seven horseshoes, of course! Oh, and the cute faceted labradorite rondelle? That's the teaser...my bead soup partner Jennifer Cameron sent that as part of my soup...ok...so not much of a teaser (but I promise my finished soup looks NOTHING like the above), I know! You'll have to come back March 3rd to see all THREE of my creations!!

Wishful Wednesday!

2012-02-22T23:17:00.001-05:00

I have a serious case of studio envy...

This is what my space started off looking like...back before I'd ever really even BEGUN...I now have a 5"x5" clear space to work...and added 8 off those shoe storage containers...and 2 more multi-drawer units.

About a year ago...and I'm too embarrassed to post a current picture of the disaster area!

While I do have a designated area...the laundry room isn't exactly creatively inspiring...nor is it decorated all nice and pretty...well other than the piles of laundry! I love that I share the space with The Mr., but when he's got the drill going, and metal shavings are flying everywhere...it's kind of nerve racking. Of course the back door is in there too...which means you have my side of the "studio" (using that term loosely), Mr.'s side...and a very narrow (like inches) path in between for everyone coming in and going out. Then there's the times when there is actually laundry being done...and it never fails...mid micro-sized-piece-of-clay-on-makeshift-needle-tool when....BZZZZZZ!!!...the dryer is done. Scares me to death every single time...piece dropped...many colorful words spoken! And there's no way to turn off the buzzer!

So, I'm window shopping for when 2 of my four move out and I might be able to discreetly occupy the bedroom...like I said...wishful Wednesday!!

Boy do I need one of these...must win lottery first! My bead storage is currently plastic "shoe" boxes, labeled for each color, then the beads are then organized into little Ziploc baggies, and all the boxes stacked on top of each other. While I guess it will have to do, there are those lazy days when I use whatever box is on top...then dig like I'm looking for gold!

Photograph from http://peasinapod.typepad.com/peas-in-a-pod/

This is a must...immediately! While I don't mind shooting photos outside, it stinks when it's overcast, rainy, snowy, or when the dog decides he wants to sniff out the new piece...or is feeling especially photogenic that day and refuses to move his hind end from the setup!

Collapsible light box from http://www.thinkgeek.com/electronics/cameras-photography/a205/

And even though this is a coat rack...I surely could use it to hang "in progress or not quite-happy-with-it" necklaces on...instead of hanging them off the cabinet knobs...errr...not like I'm doing that or anything!

And while I'm dreaming...I want a pretty vintage-y feel to the room! This will work nicely!

Photograph from Pinterest

Obviously I fell and bumped my head today...so I might as well add this to my new decorated, large, and noise proof studio space...and I have the perfect spot for it already picked out!

www.metalclaysupply.com

I have a thing for birch trees...since I planted one back when I was 5 or 6...the mural...minus the nursery...or I'll never get my own space!!

Ok...I've come back from La-La land...back to the laundry room I go!

And yes, I know I should be thankful that I have somewhere other than the kitchen table to create...and I am...honestly!

Tick Tock

2012-02-21T23:05:00.001-05:00

Patience definitely isn't one of my virtues...

Finally, the countdown to Lori Anderson's 5th Bead Soup Blog Party reveal is only 11 days away!! Errr...I better get busy and finish up!

Although I can't quite show you what I've cranked out in the past few weeks...I'll give you a little teaser

Gorgeous lampwork beads from Glass Addictions & my color palette I selected

Jen of Glass Addictions is my bead partner this go-round, and she sent some awesome soup to work with! I've racked my brain trying to come up with unique designs. I'm not in to delicate/demur jewelry (which is pretty hilarious considering that most of the beads I create are on the dainty side), I prefer wearing a single bold piece of jewelry, so Jen's lampwork beads are right up my alley! Now, if I can just bring them justice!

So, slide back this way on March 3rd to see what my obscure little brain came up with, and who knows...I just might reconstruct a new outfit to wear with my creations!

White Blaze Fever

2012-02-20T16:14:00.001-05:00

Seriously, I've become obsessed with reading biographies written by "thru-hikers" of the Appalachian Trail. So far...in the past two weeks I've added these to my virtual book shelf:

This was my introduction to biographical trail hiking.

This was by far my favorite...possibly because she hiked the trail ALONE!! Awesome read!

Another great read. These sisters walked much of the trail barefooted!!!

My current read...see...told you I've become a little obsessed!

Our family has spent quite a bit of time hiking day trails along the A.T. mainly within Shenandoah National Park/George Washington National Forest. Spy Rock, Crabtree Falls, and also The Priest (when we are kid-less as it's a little much for them)...are a few of our favorite hang outs.

From our most recent hike to Spy Rock:

Why do 10 yr olds think running on top of mountain is a good idea?

Another trip to CrabTree Falls:

My favorite bridge not far from the trail.

There's nothing more spectacular than coming upon waterfalls along the trails...deep within the woods.

Rock hopping is always on the to-do list.

Three out of four of my kids thoroughly enjoy hiking, and you can't keep up with my youngest...she scales inclines and rocks like a spider monkey! I suppose partially because it's one of the places that her learning disability doesn't hold her back. Even when it comes to reading the signs, she can lead by simply by following the white blazes indicating the Appalachian Trail.

These white blazes are painted on trees every so often along the entire 2150+ miles of the trail...GA - MA

I'd love to thru hike, but I know without doubt, I'd never complete it! ADD would make sure of that! I would however like to hike the 540+ miles that run through Virginia (that's over a 1/4 of the entire trail.) I wouldn't dare impose this whack-a-doodle trip on the kids, and I don't think The Mr.'s knees could take it...so it has become another item on my bucket list. Maybe a Mother/Daughter hike when she gets a little older?? That way she can contact emergency medics to retrieve me once she's finished the hike! Most would laugh uncontrolablly at my "dream", you see I'm a far cry from an outdoorsy type of girl. Honestly, the ONLY time I've ever "camped" was once in high school...in the woods...in full view of a friends house! Roughing it to me includes lodging at Super 8.

We can't wait til Spring. St. Mary's Falls is the first on our list for this summer!

St. Mary's Falls in Virginia...more of a trail than a hike.

Also Humpback Rock near Charlottesville:

Dragon's Tooth Hike:

And Little Devils Stairs:

Hurry up SPRING!!!

That Four Letter Word...

2012-02-17T21:12:00.004-05:00

...You know the one I'm talking about...that dirty obscene S word...S-N-O-W!!! Living in rural southern Virginia has very few benefits, but not getting much snow happens to be one of the perks!! This year, we've had a "spring like" winter, and believe me, I've thanked The Good Lord, every single day!

But, like everything...all good things must come to an end, and the wretched white stuff is headed our way Sunday. And well, I don't have to tell you how folk in the south act with more than a dusting of powder...

I live just a little to the right of the #4 on the above map of VA

I know people go crazy over the magic that falls from the sky...NOT this girl!! Although it looks innocent and gorgeous in these macro shots:

This cold natured, Raynaud's having girl is not looking forward to it...at all!

For some reason, that I've yet to figure out, most people envision this:

When this is the reality:

Of course the kids, the Mr. and even the dog are waiting with anticipation!! Then again, I'm the one fixing (yes fixing...I live in the south) gallons of hot chocolate, drying wet clothes, scarves, mittens, mopping up the lakes throughout the house...all for 5 minutes worth of outdoor activities...rinse, and repeat...just as soon as the clothes are dry, and the empty mugs are scattered all over the house!!!

My youngest angel...making an angel. This was taken directly off of our front porch...where I could stand in the doorway and use zoom.

Of course the first thing they do is roll in it...guaranteeing completely soaking wet clothing!

See even the Mr. is a crazed lunatic...please pay no attention to our pathetic snowman with leftover Halloween fang mouth!! And NO...she's not smoking a cigarette...please don't call CPS...that's a leftover candy cane discovered in the candy dish when we dug the fangs out!

The dog thoroughly enjoyed his romp. Guess who had to pick the snow off of him??

Why do I have such disdain for the white stuff? "Well, see what happened was" (infamous phrase used in excess around here, from 5 who will remain nameless)...I grew up here:

Maybe you don't recognize the pic above...this is more of what you're used to seeing:

Right on the outskirts of Niagara Falls, Canada. Where blizzards show up on Mother's Day...yes...that has happened!! Where the snow drifts were so bad that we were literally snowed inside...until my Dad could somehow get outside and dig our door out of the 10 foot drift. Where people didn't drive like lunatics at the mere sight of a flake, and grocery stores didn't run out of bread, eggs, milk, toilet paper, and other random necessities at the forecast.

Where checking for frostbite was akin to your mother making sure you brushed your hair. The place where school, businesses, and everything else didn't close up for 10 days until it melted! We walked to school...and I can remember doing so with over a foot of snow on the ground...granted it was only a mile, but I was 8!!

My childhood home...snagged from Google Earth...which looks nice and green...of course the picture was taken during the summer!

And then this is when Momma ventures out...

...When it starts melting...

...And I can see the sun again!

So, my friends...I'm going to hibernate for the next couple of days...if you haven't heard from me by next week...send out the rescue teams please!!

Cupid Has Arrived!

2012-02-13T22:58:00.002-05:00

My sweet husband knew from day one, that he better not bring these home for me:

I'm just not a flower girl! I'm definitely not what one would consider a "tree hugger", but I hate cutting flowers!

Or jewelry...unless it's a cool artisan piece, of course!

I adore this thistle ring from Winged Lion

Or this from Bond's Jewels

I love little puppies...but we already have one four legged friend who has completely overtaken our lives...so this is out!

But darn is she adorable!!

Now, I am a chocolate girl...BIG TIME...so these would be awesome...although my hips don't agree!

And since caffeine courses through my veins, this would be euphoria!

But I'll take mine in a hand thrown mug please!!

How awesome is this mug from Ceci Capen Clay Studio

We're getting pretty close to the perfect gift...

And my sweet, sweet dear husband...

Knows just how to romance me...

He pulled out all of the stops this year...

I'm not sure how he'll ever top this...

Are you tired of me beating around the bush yet?

This is on it's way to me...

Lortone Double Barrel Tumbler

Be still my heart...

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

100 Grams of Coppr Clay....

2012-02-12T23:14:00.001-05:00

...And all I have to show for it is a small wing charm, and a toggle clasp, well unless you count the first 10 "I'm-not-sure-what-I-did-wrong-and-they-all-ended-up-in-the-trash" attempts! Is it cocky that I'm happy with that? The Mr. believed I'd only wasted map gas and approximately $20 of clay...meanwhile, I'm over the moon with my accomplishment!

Maybe if said spouse hadn't of stood over my shoulder continually asking "are you sure you're doing this right? Want me to do it? This isn't going to work! Here, give me the torch!" I might have gave in and agreed with him, but see, I'm the kind of girl that when you say I can't...you can bet the farm I will...just as soon as I waste $20 worth of clay!!! LOL!

Granted, I'm well aware that working with metal clay long term will probably require a kiln, but watch out world...I'm a girl with a torch at the moment!

So finally, after I got a piece to sinter, and it didn't break in two, my smug little self handed it over to "my better half" and walked inside. Where he was hot on my tail with "It doesn't even look like copper...it's dull! Who wants to use that?" I tried to explain it was oxidation but he thought I'd been beat...sometimes he doesn't know me at all!

I head to the kitchen to pickle my two treasures, and while he fixes himself lunch I hear a "that's more trouble than it's worth baby!" I stick to my guns, and get to burnishing.

It IS A LOT of work!!! I'm thinking a tumbler would make things easier...

I gave my accomplishments a dip in liver of sulfur, and a quick polish. Happy with the results, I went in search of dear sweet husband. He was floored at how they turned out. After all, I am just a wee thing, who couldn't possibly accomplish something so "manly"...that included fire...all by my lonesome! Wanna know what he said? "Hmmm...maybe WE should think about saving for a kiln, so you won't have to spend so long holding the torch!" I LOVE HIM!!

I know my technique and process need TONS of work and refinement, but I'm a happy girl at just a teeny accomplishment...and now I need more clay!!

And I won't even show them to you...as I'm thinking of using them in my Bead Soup creations!!

Happy Day

2012-02-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

What an awesome day!

- Metal clay came in the mail...just waiting on the rest of supplies to get here before I "give it a whack!"

- I kept our grocery bill for the week under $125!! Did the happy dance all the way out of Hell-Mart!! Ever tried feeding 6 (4 of which are growing, always hungry kids) on less than $150 a week?

- My darling little boy (almost 13), who has resisted getting his hair cut for almost a year, hence needing pretty barrettes, jumped in the van after school and asked me to cut his hair...how much you wanna bet there is a girl involved? Buzz cut achieved!!

- My 5th grade science project of the ocean floor, has been sculpted...let's just hope it dries so we can paint it before Friday morning!!

- Our oldest deemed "it's time I start paying my own cell phone bill!" (Must have been abducted by aliens last night)...and being the awesome mother that I am, after I came to, I helped her change the credit card info online.

- It's Tuesday and my favorite show "Ink Masters" is on...I'm a sucker for tattoos!!

- And...what's better than being married to the sweetest man ever? Being married to the sweetest man ever, who is a plumber and brought home GOBS of thick gauge (10 - 14) copper wire...all for me!!!!

All is right in my little world tonight!

Happy Saturday

2012-02-04T10:26:00.000-05:00

Anticipation!! Can't wait for all my new goodies to get here! Until then, here are just a few beads I listed on Etsy yesterday...

Faux brass/bronze hollow lentil 4 bead set - tree of life, sand dollar, flowering vine and cherry blossom

Faux ceramic rustic honey bee bead

Hope everyone has an awesome weekend! I'm going to try and re-organize the studio to make room for new supplies!

Evolution

2012-02-03T16:00:00.002-05:00

I'm always in the mind set of evolving, with art. At times, it gets the best of me. Painting was a complete disaster...think along the lines of obscure stick people! Drawing? Well that's just as sad, believe me! And forget about me sculpting anything...there are better results from preschoolers! I've tried my hand at MANY other expressions of art, and it seems that I always come back to polymer clay.

Unfortunately, polymer clay gets a "bad rap" among the general population. In my experience most (non artisans) equate it to "cheap plastic" that's molded, mass produced, or a child's art medium comparable to Play Doh. During art/craft shows, I only have a few moments to explain the logistics of what polymer is and what it isn't....extremely hard to do to someone who has no experience with it...believe me! Hence, the reason, that I always have just as many pieces for sale that DON'T contain any polymer clay in their creation.

The Mr. and I always like to play a discreet game of "What will they pick up first"...are they "clay people" or "non clay people". Most of the time, I can spot them...they "get" it. Don't judge us :) ...shows take so much prep, planning and overall stress that we need little diversions or we'd kill each other! What you see in our booth is months of planning, mock set ups, building of displays, sewing table coverings, and spending MANY hours in our tiny studio together creating.

Our 2011 Booths:

Now, as much as I'd love to try my hand at lampwork, or even pottery, the start up costs intimidate the hell out of me! Anyone that has teenage children (x4 here) knows that extra funds for such "hobbies" just don't exist. I have racked my brain on how to mesh my love for polymer clay with another medium.

PMC, or precious metal clay seemed like the best option. Not only is the consistency somewhat similar, but I have most of the needed/desired tools already on hand here in the studio. My dear sweet husband bought a torch the other day (talk about a romantic Valentine's gift), so that I could get the feel of working with it without the expense of purchasing a kiln off the bat! I've ordered a sampling of clay, and I can't wait to dig in when it arrives!!

Just a few excellent examples of PMC art:

Wax seal PMC pendant from New Hope Beading

Bronze Copper Silver PMC ring from Deb Munroe Studio

Silk Ribbon Wrap Bracelet from KLM Designs

And of course I have to include my BSBP partner's creation:

Love Glass Necklace by Jennifer Cameron available at Glass Addictions/Jen Cameron Designs

So, come back in a week or two...maybe I'll have a few pieces completed, and I'm sure many stories to share!

Bead Soup Arrival

2012-02-02T19:09:00.001-05:00

As it's well known, I'm one of the 200 participating in Lori Anderson's 5th Bead Soup Blog Hop, and my partner is Jennifer Cameron of Glass Addictions!!!!

Ok, I won't fill this post with "fluff", and I'll get down to the good stuff...the beads!!!!

Do you know how hard it is to refrain from opening the goodies long enough to get a decent picture?? Complete torture!!

And the sweet card Jennifer enclosed...cute color combination to boot!

A Green Girl Studios pewter starfish toggle clasp... LOVE!!

The focal and accent beads...more utter and complete LOVE!!! I seriously have had to hide them from The Mr...as he's more than ready to sneak one to use on his bracelets...and believe me, that's a MAJOR compliment!!

Jennifer's focal and gorgeous blue kyanite...probably one of my favorite stones to work with!!

The supporting cast: Amethyst, blue kyanite, labradorite, czech, and cultured pearls!!

A few "group" shots...

Amazing, right? I can't wait to dig in!!

Come on back March 3rd, to see my creation...and blog hop to over 200 more pieces of eye candy!!!

If you want to check out everyone's soup before the reveal...here is the list of participants:

1. Adlinah Kamsir (Kingdom of Bahrain) and Hajer Waheed (Singapore)

2. Adrienn Lukacs (Hungary) and Agata Grygiel (Poland)

3. Agi Kiss (Hungary) and Carolien Muller-Genger (the Netherlands)

4. Agnes Asztalos (Hungary) and B.R. Kuhlman

5. Alesha Conklin and Becki Mendivil

6. Alice Peterson and Carol Dillman

7. Alicia Marinache (Canada) and Dita Basu

8. Amanda Dittloff and Brandy Thomason McNair

9. Amanda Tibbetts and Andrea Trank

10. Amy Freeland and Kay Mallery

11. Andra Weber and Christine Murrow

12. Ann Sherwood and Diane Welte

13. Barbara Bechtel and Kerry Bogert

14. Barbara Lewis and Cat Pruitt

15. Bonnie Coursolle (Canada) and Fay Wolfenden (Canada)

16. Carmel McGinley (Australia) and Tracy Stillman (Australia)

17. Cassie Donlen and Deryn Mentock

18. Cathie Carroll and Janel Dudley

19. Cece Cormier and Morwyn Mullins

20. Charlene Jacka and Christina Hickman

21. Cheryl Brown (Canada) and Diana Ptaszynski

22. Christina Stofmeel (the Netherlands) and Eva Kovacs (Hungary)

23. Christine Damm and Deb Brooks

24. Cilla Watkins (Canada) and Elaine Robitaille (Canada)

25. Sabrina Straub (Switzerland) and Kathy Combs

26. Cindy Cima Edwards and Eleanor Burian-Mohr

27. Cory Celaya and Rhea Freitieg

28. Courtney Breul and Dana Hickey

29. Cynthia Abner and Jennifer Boreck

30. Cynthia Tucker and Jean Peter

31. Debbie Goering and Heidi Post

32. Dee Elgie (UK) and Joanne Lockwood (UK)

33. Dian Hierschel (Germany) and Eniko Fabian (Austria)

34. Diane Cook and Lyn Foley

35. Donna Bohler and Lisa Lodge

36. Donna Millard and Kiersten Giles

37. Doris Stumpf (Germany) and Eszter Czibulyas (Hungary)

38. Elisabeth Auld and Eva Sherman

39. Elke Leonhardt-Rath (Germany) and Marjolein Trewavas (UK)

40. Ema Kilroy and Laurie Keefe-Cecere

41. Erika Nooteboom (the Netherlands) and Giorgia Rossini (Italy)

42. Erin Grant and Jean Wells

43. Evelyn Duberry and Gaea Cannaday

44. Genea Crivello-Knable and Heather Powers

45. Ginger Bishop (military, Okinawa) and Martina Nagele (Germany)

46. Heidi Kingman and Lori Greenberg

47. Helen Kemp and Lisa Wangeman

48. Helene Goldberg (Australia) and Karen Vincent

49. Jamie Hogsett and Jeannie Dukic

50. Jeanette Ryan and Jelveh Jaferian

51. Jennifer Cameron and Tania Spivey

52. Jennifer Justman and Kari Carrigan

53. Jennifer Tough and Lorelei Eurto

54. Joanna Matuszczyk (Poland) and Julianna Kis (Hungary)

55. Joanne Tinley (UK) and Michaela Pabeschitz (Austria)

56. Julie Anne Leggett and Kelley Fogle

57. Karen Hess and Linda Landig

58. Karyn Bonfiglio and Kathleen Lange Klik

59. Kashmira Patel and Kat White

60. Kat Barron Miller and Kelly Morgan

61. Kathy Lindemer and Rose Binoya

62. Krafty Max and Sandra Miller

63. Kristen Latimer and Pam Ferrari

64. Kristie Roeder and Lea Avroch

65. Kristina Johansson (Sweden) and Penny Neville (Canada)

66. Krisztina Erlaki-Toth (Hungary) and Nicole Keller (Germany)

67. Lara Lutrick and Lisa Suver

68. Laura DeMoya and Lisa Hanna

69. Libby Leuchtman and Melanie Brooks

70. Linda Koch and Rosemarie Cowit

71. Lisa Chapman and Menka Gupta

72. Lisa Liddy and Marion Simmons

73. Lori Anderson and Marcie Abney

74. Lori Bowring-Michaud and Mary Govaars

75. Lori Dorrington and Maria Rosa Sharrow

76. Lori Finney (Canada) and Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp (Canada)

77. Lynn Bennett and Mandi Ainsworth

78. Marta Kaczerowska (Poland) and Milla Starchik (Canada)

79. Mary Harding and Shannon LeVart

80. Mary Jane Dodd and Stacey Curry

81. Melinda Orr and Molly Alexander

82. Melissa Meman and Michelle Escano-Caballaro

83. Michelle Jensen (Canada) and Sandra Young (Canada)

84. Nan Emmett and Nicole Valentine-Rimmer (Canada)

85. Nancy Boylan and Suzette Bentley

86. Natasha Lutes and Patti Vanderbloemen

87. Pam Hurst and Rebekah Payne

88. Patty Miller and Sara Rhoades

89. Rebecca Anderson (UK) and Lori Anderson

90. Rebecca Sirevaag and Sharon Driscoll

91. Rochelle Brisson and Shannon Chomanczuk

92. Rosa Maria Cuevas (Mexico) and Tejae Floyde

93. Sabine Dittrich (Germany) and Sally Russick

94. Sandi Volpe and Sarah/Saturday Sequins

95. Shanti Johnson and Tracy Mok (Canada)

96. Skylar Brez and Theresa Buchle

97. Sonya Stille and Traci Zeller (Canada)

98. Stefanie Teufel (Germany) and Tania Hagen (New Zealand)

99. Stephanie LaRosa and Vonna Maslanka

100. Terri Wlaschin and Wendy Blum

(List courtesy of Lori Anderson at Prettythingsblog.com)

Mornings With Moobie Grace

2012-02-02T07:35:00.001-05:00

Let me set the stage: I was blissfully enjoying snooze-land this morning, when I was suddenly jolted awake by the back door slamming...at 4:47 a.m.!!

Mr. : (Walking back into our bedroom, already showered/dressed/raring to go)
   - "Why are you up??"

Me : - "Good question! It might have a little something to do with the housequake you just
   caused!"

Mr. : (Trying to look oh so innocent, as if even in a sleepy stupor I would believe this was the
   dog's doing)
   - "You going to stay up? You want me to start the coffee? You could get a jump
   start on the day!"

Me : (Becoming a little miffed at the sweetness/innocence/chirpiness Mr. is trying to convey)
   - "@#$!*&%!@! Are you kidding me? What do people do vertically at this ungodly hour?"

Mr. : - "You can do whatever you want. Enjoy the peace and quiet, be alone with your thoughts."

Me: (Fluffing my pillow and finding a comfy spot)
   - "I WANT to go back to sleep, I was enjoying the peace and quiet before you caused a 6.7 on
   the Richter scale, and who has any thoughts at this time?!"

Mr. : (Scratching his head)
   - "So, is that a yes or a no on the coffee?"

Me  : *DEATH STARE*

Mr. : (Shuffles off to work)

...Yet here I am...still awake. Not enjoying the peace and quiet in the least!

Staying Inspired

2012-02-01T22:12:00.000-05:00

While sitting at my work space this morning, I realized I just wasn't "feeling" anything I had to work with. Ok, that's laughable with the insane amount of beads, metals, coins, clay, wire, stamps, molds, etc I have at my disposable...but sometimes looking and working with the same materials, day in and day out, the creativity seems to become stagnant, and every creation tends to look the same after awhile. Well, at least that's my excuse to search out and buy new beads!!!

After taking a very quick inventory, it dawned on me that while I create my own beads, and purchase lots of gemstone beads, and other components, I really have never ventured into working with other bead artisans' creations...darn do I live a sheltered life!

Mission in hand *insert Mission Impossible music sound bite here* I spent the day browsing at leisure. Sweet baby Jesus!!!! There's just TOO much talent out there for me to even make a dent in sampling everything ! I'm definitely going to have to pace myself.

So, here's what I picked up today:

From PajegoArtHouse:

All photos from Pajego Art House

My stash from Captured Moments:

All photographs from Captured Moments

Yes...I got a little greedy with the bracelet beads...I just couldn't decide!!

Then of course, I had to get coordinating supplies...enter the mass collection of Czech beads I purchased and then these...

Just some of my haul from Dime Store Emporium

All photos from Dime Store Emporium

So...anything else I must check out??? I definitely don't want to leave anyone out!

My Heart Is Heavy

2012-01-31T21:09:00.001-05:00

I've gone back and forth on whether to discuss this here on my blog for a few weeks now. I usually don't like to be a Debbie-Downer here, but while personal, I know in my heart of hearts that I'm not the only going through this, and I know no one walks this path alone...

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

I received some horrible news two weeks ago. A close family member of mine has cancer. The first thought that ran through my head was "this is a dream, right? Here we go again" and then "how the hell do I handle this...knowing what could be? At least last time I had my naivete." Of course then I snapped out of the selfish mode and considered what they were going through as well...so far away from me...

The cancer "is curable"...and I swear if I hear that one more time I'm going to wallop someone...been there, done that and it wasn't curable! My mom battled for 15 months on what should have been a "curable" cancer. Without any immediate family close by, a lot of the day to day care I took on willingly (can I also say I was going through a bitter custody court case at the time, and well after she was gone), with four children, a new marriage, a new full time job, and then dealing with an alcoholic step father thrown in the mix didn't help matters. Despite those dark days (most I didn't even remember my name), I wouldn't trade the extra time we got to spend together...regardless of the reasons or the outcome. The parent/child relationship came full circle, rolls were reversed, and I did all I could to show the thanks for all those years that I never actually said "thank you!"

My mom & myself on my wedding day - July 31st, 2004. (mid cancer battle)

Coincidentally, she quickly exited my life exactly a year later...to the day.

I know my story isn't especially unique...or tragic in the grand scheme of things, but nevertheless, it's mine. Mine to somehow work through, find faith for, and yet another reason I'll never give up.

Pinterest Photo

So, while I travel down this path, yet again, still without a damn clue, please bear with me. If you've emailed or contacted me, I promise I will get back to you, it's just some days I'm still my happy-go-lucky self, and other days I'm holding a massive pity party for one!

So, while you're waiting for me, can I please tempt you with getting involved with a Relay For Life event near you? I can't even begin to tell you what an awesome experience they are. Our whole family participates at our local event, and although the first year was extremely hard, the experience is always uplifting, humbling, and harrowing.

Our 2010 luminary - My oldest designed it. I wish I would have gotten a picture of the last lap made that night. In complete darkness, with only the luminaries lit...and in total silence...to honor those who we've lost.

Our t-shirts I made for the 2010 event

2011 Relay event. My girls participating in the "Relay for Relay"

Same girls 2011...thinking they could win the cupcake eating contest. Unfortunately, a massive thunderstorm came through and the event couldn't be finished that day, so we missed the luminary walk.

So, please...be kind to those around you, as you just never know what they're going through

The Bead Soup Has Landed!

2012-01-30T18:52:00.001-05:00

My Bead Soup Blog Hop partner, Jennifer Cameron of Glass Addictions received the soup I sent her today!!!

Now, because I'm a complete moron, and packaged, sent, and then realized I forgot to enclose the card with the description of my soup...I'll post a labeled picture here...sorry Jennifer!!!

And a few more shots....

Bead Soup

Close up of the clasp: Polymer clay floral with copper key toggle

Close up of the polymer clay focal bead

I can't wait to see what Jennifer sent me...I know it'll be to die for though! I'm even more excited for March 3rd...BSBH day!!! Seriously, I'm more excited about this than I was at Christmas!

I'll be listing more artisan components in my Etsy store...but it won't be until late next week!

Ingredients Are On Their Way....

2012-01-26T13:07:00.000-05:00

I finally got Jennifer's bead soup sent off to her today. In conversation, she mentioned that she gravitates towards blue in her designs (I have the same issue except green is my color of choice)...so I made sure that ABSOLUTELY no blue was included in my soup mix!

I can't wait to see what Jennifer and all the participates create...it's my favorite part of BSBH! You too can follow and visit all of us HERE on Lori Anderson's blog Pretty Things.

And now for just a little sneak peek!

Nothing like a little color swapping and pixelation to completely throw someone off!

And a quick photo of my less than phenomenal packaging...

Knit One, Purl ...Damn ...I Lost Count ...AGAIN!

2012-01-25T23:55:00.003-05:00

Not long ago, I was feeling adventurous (I must've had more than 4 hours of sleep and a least a pot of coffee that day), and on a whim, I decided to teach myself how to knit. Just think, I could knit the whole family matching sweaters, and socks!!...lots of socks, cozies for everything, blankets for the homeless, table cloths, toilet paper...the possibilities are endless!!!!!

Sienna Closet leg warmers

I can crochet like a mad man, although self taught, so I'm certain my technique is off...or at least a strange sight to see. Being left handed isn't all it's cracked up to be! So my theory was "how much harder can it be?" I've used a knitting board many times, but felt like I was back in the 70's (I just showed my age, huh?) weaving potholders on my bright red plastic loom! Let's just say that I jinxed myself before I ever started!

The Knit Knot Snood

After a quick trip to Walmarket (oh, how I despise that place...but here in BFE there literally isn't anywhere else to go without driving 45+ minutes) I came home with 2 sizes of needles, ready to conquer the knitting world!!
Of course my tutor of the day was Mr. You Tube himself! I never realized how useful the pause and replay buttons are until I needed to use them every .7873 seconds! Never easily discouraged, I forged on...and on...still forging...

Bella Bunny by Rare Rabbit Designs

I should also add, that I went out and purchased 5 -10 more needles of different sizes, lengths, circular needles, bamboo needles, and even pretty ($$$$) rosewood ones, that surely held the secret to perfect knitting! *Sigh*, that evidently wasn't the case. I've ordered yarn in every weight, color and fiber possible...because we all know that hand dyed, hand spun, bamboo and silk yarn was going to greatly improve my knitting ability, right? Yeah, the only thing that did was tick me off when I had to cut off approximately $15 worth of yarn because it was tangle beyond repair!

Silk yarn from Dye For Yarn

To date, I have started 100's of projects...dropped a stitch, completely jumbled the pattern, collected a gorgeous assortment of lovely yarns, and lots of bright and shiny knitting needles...that I seriously want to use to gouge my eyes out!!

So, my friends....anyone care to share the secret-society-knit-effortlessly-secret?? Because the only thing I've accomplished so far is an uber awesome rendition of Edward Scissorhands, and a mean air drum solo act!!

I Burned My Soup....So More Glass Addictions

2012-01-21T10:47:00.000-05:00

My BSBH partner definitely got her business name right..."addiction" about sums it up! I sat down to make her soup yesterday, and I'm not sure what happened...during the curing process, 2 of the beads cracked and turned strange colors. I have no clue what went wrong...in the trash they went! So, today, I'm back in the studio...which is a PERFECT way to spend a rainy Saturday!!!

In the meantime, I happened to look through Jennifer "sold" items on Etsy and fell in love with quite a few...no surprise there!

Oh my!!! Seashell beads!! Love the way they look like little pools of water.

I love all the colors in this!

Here's another favorite of mine...reminds me of a Van Gogh painting.

And these speak for themselves!

I can't help but see an emerging butterfly deep within this bead...

How awesome is this?

Ok...this is my new favorite...love it!

Anyway...I'll get Jennifer's soup out to her on Monday...a day later than planned...

Quote Day!

2012-01-18T23:29:00.000-05:00

I'm a sucker for quotes. Seriously, I even have them on my living room walls...they offer me comfort, inspiration and wisdom. Because I'm weird that way!

And this my friends is how a drained, tired and lazy girl writes a blog post!

Bead Soup Blog Hop & Glass Addictions

2012-01-17T23:39:00.002-05:00

Somehow I had the good fortune of the planets aligning and I was one of the lucky 201 drawn to participate in Lori Anderson's 5th Bead Soup Blog Hop!! This will be my second BSHP...Yep...I had SO much fun the first time around, I had to go back for seconds!! If you're unfamiliar with Lori, or with her Bead Soup Blog Hop (and seriously, I don't know how she doesn't claw her eyes out trying to organize and please a group of this size...or of any size for that matter), then please head over to Lori's blog and check it all out...but first let me introduce my "partner in crime" for the hop...

Again, somehow I lucked out and drew a golden ticket...as I was paired with the amazing glass artisan Jennifer Cameron!! I adore lampwork, with all it's mesmerizing facets buried within the glass, and even though I drool over glass beads on a daily basis, I haven't had the opportunity to work with them as much as I daydream about. Partly because I can never decide which ones to purchase, but for the most part I always fear of not doing the beads justice in my creations.

Enough about me, let's get on with Jennifer's eye candy shall we?

First, let's check out her studio:

I love all the colors and having them on display they are like little works of art all by themselves!!!!

And of course I couldn't help but spy this little creation by Jennifer in her Etsy shop...found HERE

I've worked with glass discs...and I promise that I'll be hiding my creation after seeing how gorgeous this necklace is! Jennifer made her own PMC hearts too...all kinds of talent!

Now on to the main act...BEADS!!!

See what I'm talking about? So many dimensions in such a little bead! Unbelievable!

I get lost in this piece...

And I'll wrap it up with my favorite:

Now you can see why it's my favorite!!

Please run on over and check out Jennifer's BLOG or her Glass Addictions Etsy store...but don't be greedy :) and save some for the rest of us!

Don't forget to come back and check out all the participants' creations on reveal day March 3rd! I'll be re blogging the participants list, complete with links prior to reveal day!

Bead Soup Blog Party Sign Ups End Today!!

2012-01-09T21:35:00.000-05:00

Lori's Anderson's Pretty Things Blog 5th Bead Soup Blog Party sign ups end TODAY...run...sign up...then cross your fingers and hope your number comes up! :) But, even if it doesn't please come back on March 3rd to visit all the participates goodies!!

Back From the Land of the Lost

2012-01-03T22:17:00.000-05:00

I'm such a horrible blogger...the holidays just made it that much worse for slackers like myself! There's nothing like sleeping in, working on my own schedule (yeah, that didn't happen in the past two weeks), and taking naps at my leisure (these happened ALOT), but sadly, all good things must come to an end! With my gaggle of kids back to the books (and yes I did a happy dance and contemplated popping open a bottle of bubbly), I suppose I must clear the cobwebs out of my studio and my mind and get back to a schedule....and oh how I hate a schedule! I live life "calendar free"...honestly, I despise being all date planner organized...I threw that in the trash when I fell off the corporate ladder.

I've also ventured on to a new obsession...reconstructing/upcycling clothing into new garments with shabby/boho flair. I'll admit that I really was only looking for an excuse to buy (hoard) vintage lace, crochet and other bobbles from the antique mall we frequent on the weekends. Thankfully, I haven't sewn through my hand yet (and yep...I've done it before), which equates to success in my book! No pictures just yet, as it's absolutely FREEZING in my neck of the woods!!

With the new year, comes new commitments, and resolutions...I'm not big on those either by the way! I did promise myself to lose the 10 lbs that happened to find me sometime during the holidays. I even ate the last of the chocolate pie last night so I wouldn't keep getting up and eating a slice as a nightly midnight snack. Who's brilliant idea was it to buy 4 pies for Christmas? That would be the Mr....darn him...I don't see it hanging around on his hips!!!

I've also got to be a little more organized...my "studio" space is shared with my husband, and also doubles as our laundry/mud room. Organization is not my strong point...I gave that up as soon as I had more than one child...but it's a complete DISASTER in there!!

But, despite all of the above...my biggest commitment this year is to simply...

The Grinch

2011-12-18T21:50:00.000-05:00

6 days til Christmas Eve.

I love Christmas...the excitement and wonder. I'm the obnoxious girl who usually has her tree up at least 2 weeks before Thanksgiving. White tree, bright, glittery, even gaudy ornaments usually complete our look.

Christmas 2010 - mid decorating

Don't mind the slew of extension cords...the Mr. was in charge of rerouting cords and he was slacking...

I'm just not feeling Christmas this year. I'm not sure what happened. I just can't get into the Christmas spirit. Usually, I'm completely done shopping and even wrapping by December 1st, and anxiously awaiting the arrival of that special morning.

Ask me what I've purchased/made to date? Stocking stuffers and a few gifts for the kids! No "big" presents, no completed creations carefully wrapped under the tree, and I'm running out of time. We (we, as in my husband) just got the tree down from storage yesterday. Plugged it in and all but one tiny section won't light up. It's as if even our tree is boycotting Christmas this year. I drug myself out to buy simple white lights, and was quite upset when I could find any...is there a shortage I don't know about? We picked out blue...they are completely gloomy...even on the white tree! I have to laugh...I'm anal about the Christmas tree, and this year it's just sad!!

There's been no Christmas cookie baking marathons, no planning of the gluttonous Christmas dinner...even the kids don't seem excited this year (which is beyond worrisome). The Mr. and I concluded in our late night pillow banter, that if the bank account allowed, we'd board a plane and go somewhere warm and beachy to wash away our foul moods.

Alas, there is a BIG glimmer of hope...my "adopted" child who moved to Texas in August, arrived back in town tonight...she quickly chased my lack of Christmas spirit away!! There's nothing like having ALL your kids home for Christmas!!

How could that face NOT cheer you up?

So, tonight...however "late to the party" I am...I can finally look forward to the next week, and sleep soundly knowing "all is right in my world!"

Do As I Say...

2011-12-16T00:26:00.000-05:00

...Not as I do. My mom wore that phrase out while I was growing up. Of course, I never took anything away from this wise tidbit of knowledge my Mom was trying so desperately to beat into my head!! Hopefully y'all are quicker learners than myself!

- Trying to drill through anything with a bead reamer, only results in a slew of colorful (although creative) curse words...oh, and a hole through your palm! I can not tell you how many dozens of times I've done the above, with the exact same results...

- 10 days before Christmas isn't the best time to realize that you had better start your Christmas shopping. Especially if you happen to have 4 children. NOT looking forward to this weekend of marathon shopping!

- It's Murphy's Law that if you are able to "have a lie in" (sleep in) you can guarantee that the dog will begin his schizophrenic barking episodes by 6 a.m., or as luck would have it, a work crew shows up to begin repairs on the neighbor's home...right outside your bedroom window. If you're as lucky as I am...both simultaneously!

- A family of 6 can not consume 6 gifted barrels of cheese balls in a 3 months...it goes against the law of physics!

- Etsy seems like a stellar idea until you have to photograph a single bracelet 739283 times before the photography gods take pity upon you and grant you a single acceptable picture.

- A man can sleep on a couch with the TV & surround sound blaring, with referenced work crew noise, paranoid canine barking, four children threatening loving endearments of fast approaching bodily harm, smoke detector bleeping because you had to hold a quick session of Peoples' Court to prevent sibling homicide, and the doorbell chiming like Westminster Abbey, but be prepared to have to read lips if he happens to fall asleep in bed "because he can't sleep with the TV so loud" Volume level 4.

- Trying to find cheap white Christmas tree lights is a task that should only be attempted by Sherlock Holmes, and blue lights are NOT attractive or festive!

There you have it my friends...today's list of what NOT to do...stay tuned, I'm sure there will be many more installments to come!

GRRRR!!!!

2011-12-09T00:14:00.004-05:00

You know, I don't hop on my soap box often...and definitely not so all of Blog Land can read...but I'm making an exception this evening...

Nothing peeves me more than when someone tries to do something nice for others and it gets thrown right back in giver's face. Someone who took time out from their own busy schedule, family, and even their own business for no other reason than to simply try and offer assistance and opportunity (of any kind) deserves a medal in my book...and when the above happens to a friend it boils my blood!

Geez...was anyone taught about being grateful? How about thankfulness? Does "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all" ring a bell? I'm pretty sure we all learned about these, say, oh...in Kindergarten?! Not to mention it's the Christmas season...*sigh*

I wasn't going to mention any name...but then this post would be pointless...

Lori Anderson of Pretty Things held a wonderful Virtual Craft Show Nov 26th - Dec 3rd. I jumped at the opportunity to join...and I'm glad I did! For me, it wasn't about "raking in the cash" from Etsy sales. It was more about getting my name out there, making new friends and networking (for lack of better words). I didn't know exactly how Lori was going to set it all up, and it never crossed my mind to question her, or disapprove afterwards. I make a few sales, and I'll be honest, I was surprised! I'm still "wet behind the ears" when it comes to blogging and selling on Etsy, and I know success doesn't happen overnight. Not to mention the lack of spending money in today's economy.

So, Lori here's your medal:

Psst...did you notice it's a pie medal?? :)

I'm sorry a few didn't see it that way...

I'm aware this isn't at all "business-like" and proper, and to be honest...I don't really care tonight! I was born with the gift of being able to say what others are thinking...at least I think it's a gift! LOL! This is about a friend who did her best to help as many people out as she could at one time...and instead feeling good about it, probably got her feelings hurt in the end! Nice going! < Completely sarcastic comment....

Some may get their feathers ruffled about this, and if you feel the need to un-follow me, I completely understand...

Now, let's all hold hands and sing Kumbaya! :)

Eye Candy!

2011-11-27T20:41:00.001-05:00

I'm too exhausted to post anything with substance...I've spent all day photographing, editing and listing on Etsy. I can't complain, 74 degree temperatures at the end of November don't happen often here in Virginia, and I soaked up the sun outside most of the day!

So...that leaves me with what to post? Ahhh....eye candy listed in my Etsy store recently of course!!

Vintage Silverware Bracelet -Hansel & Gretel Upcycled Rare German - Early 1900's

Fused Plastic Necklace - Modern - Upcycled - Gray - Gunmetal

Polymer Clay - Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Brooch Pin - Floral

Polymer Clay Necklace - Wisteria

Polymer Clay Cylinder Necklace - Sunny Days Florals

Polymer Clay Bib Necklace - Jet Black - Floral - Pink Parisian

Bohemian Ladder Necklace

Polymer Clay Necklace - Hand Forged Copper - Purple

Polymer Clay Bracelet - Florals - Flannel Gray & Coral

I'll be working on more components this week...bead sets, clasps, toggles...hopefully will have them listed by the week's end!!

Lori Anderson's - First Annual Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-26T10:28:00.001-05:00

From November 26 - December 3, Lori Anderson is hosting an online craft show featuring 70 artisans and craftspeople. Every day, Lori will be listing all the shops and sales going on which you can view by going to her site (click on the banner above)...and the best part?? THERE'S 70 GIVE-AWAYS TO BE HAD!!!!!!

__________________________________________________________________________

Here's how you win:

Please visit www.Prettythingsblog.com

For each of the 7 days of the show, you get a point for each of the following (you don't have to do all four)....

Commenting on Pretty Things Blog/First Annual Virtual Craft page

Facebooking Pretty Things Blog/First Annual Virtual Craft page

Twittering Pretty Things Blog/First Annual Virtual Craft page

Blogging about Pretty Things Blog/First Annual Virtual Craft page

Be sure to have either a blog with an email contact, or leave an email in your comment so I can notify you!

Drawing will be held a couple of days after the show.

__________________________________________________________________________

Here's Moobie Grace Designs' give away:

Designer's Dream Eclectic Mix

Includes:

1. Polymer clay oval toggle clasp in taupe, with a dainty lavender flowering vine and gorgeous antique white sari silk. Clay toggle measures approximately 1.5" in diameter, not including copper bail.

2. Polymer clay bead and hammered copper toggle set in rich, woodsy shades of brown. Accented with topaz hued crystals and beads, and includes sari silk in coordinating color. Beads measure nearly 2" in diameter, while hammered toggle measures 1" in diameter.

3. Eclectic mix of lime green and shades of gray polymer focal bead with brass center accents and beads, with cool shade of gray sari silk length. Focal bead measures approximately 1.25" in diameter.

Value $35

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To celebrate I'm also offering 10% off my Etsy Shop (for all my blog reading friends) November 27th - December 3rd. Use code VCSBLOG10 at checkout.

You can also check us out on Facebook to keep up with new listings, news, etc!!

Me...

2011-11-24T10:47:00.000-05:00

I started my blogging journey determined NOT to reveal too much about who I am, trying to keep myself separate from my business. I quickly realized that my business, what I design and create, and my personality are completely entwined. So, without further ado...

♥ I don't wear my heart on my sleeve, so stop looking for it!

♥ Mess with my kids and it gets ugly...FAST!

♥ I'm a yarn snob

♥ I miss my Mom. Every. Single. Day!!

♥ I'm a little schizophrenic with my music choices.

♥ I'm definitely not a crier, but that doesn't make me cold hearted.

♥ I have high morals and often ponder why others don't.

♥ I like being a little quirky, but I know where the fine line between quirky and just being weird is drawn.

♥ I love fashion trends and spend way too much money on them!

♥ I'm a tattoo addict.

♥ I'd give anyone the shirt off of my back if needed, but I won’t be taken advantage of...at all!

♥ I'm a complete book nerd.

♥ I'll gladly fight for what I believe in, and I stand by my convictions, always!

♥ I love sitting back and watching karma take over...it's even sweeter knowing it wasn't caused by your hand.

♥ I'm the girl who will spend hundreds on a purse, yet buys off brand ketchup.

♥ I like using my creative side, although sometimes it gets me in trouble.

♥ I think outside of the box, which is a quality that doesn’t seem to be appreciated much anymore.

♥ My friends ARE my family!

♥ My own personal hell would consist of being forced to watch Star Trek and listening to bluegrass music!

♥ I'm brutally honest, and I call things as I see them...the truth hurts doesn’t it?

♥ I'll do just about anything once.

♥ I love art. The more obscure, the better!

♥ I tend to burn bridges earlier than most, but luckily my gut instinct has always been correct.

♥ I usually do things ass backwards, but I don't need you to point it out, as I'm fully aware.

♥ I’m a girlie-girl but I hate the color pink, drama and acting like an airhead.

♥ I have no regrets in life...but would like to rearrange a few things.

♥ I'm a dare devil, bungee jumping anyone? (It was great!)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

I'll Go Sit In The Corner Now...

2011-11-15T12:48:00.000-05:00

Wow! I stink at blogging on a regular basis...SO not good for business! I mean well, then 23904828 other things seems to pop up during the day and I never get around to publishing anything I've written.

Not to mention I've just been in a funk lately. I chalk it up to the impending cold weather just around the corner...and the fact that it's Nov. 15th and I haven't bought a single Christmas present!! Opps!

I've had lots of studio time lately...not that anything's being accomplished :) In fact, when I result to cleaning the house...creativity is at an all time low...I'm not in the least bit OCD!

I'll share a few recent creations...still playing with sari silk...

A few bag charms...

Of course some bohemian earrings...

And of course necklaces...

I have a few more things that I'll be listing soon in prep for Lori Anderson's First Annual Virtual Craft Show

Yes, Virginia...There Are Still Miracles

2011-10-28T21:13:00.001-04:00

If you've been following my blogs in the past few days, then you know that little Robert Wood, Jr. a severely, non verbal autistic boy has been missing since last Sunday. Thankfully up until today, the weather wasn't too cold. 70's -80's in the day, and mild nights...that was about to change tonight.

Cold front blew our way, and today's highs were mid 40's, tonight down past freezing...throw in heavy rains, sleet, and possible snow tomorrow, and all the searchers knew that after the weekend our rescue search was going to turn...for the worse.

I am completely OVER THE MOON tonight, that I can say ROBERT WOOD, JR was found today, around 2 p.m....ALIVE!!! I swear, if I hadn't of been driving down the highway when I heard the breaking news, I would have hit my knees!!! He was taken by Med-Flight to MCV medical center where he was reunited with his family. Other than minor issues, he's going to be just fine! M.D.s haven't stated how long they will keep the little boy, but I'll try to update as I hear the latest news.

Over 6000 citizen volunteers came out over the past 6 days to search through densely thorned woods. I never heard a negative comment, and they covered 80+ square miles...grid style. The view was astonishing to see hundreds standing shoulder to shoulder on the edge of roads, clad in fluorescent vests...just waiting on orders to enter the woods.

This little boy will never know how many prayers, volunteers, love and concern we all had for him...and that's ok with me!

Today we all witnessed a miracle...Tonight...his mother's arms are NOT empty!!

You can read Robert's rescue HERE.

Humbled.

2011-10-27T19:51:00.000-04:00

That's the first word that comes to mind tonight. Along with fortunate, heartsick, blessed, determined, and awed. The search for Robert Wood, Jr. continues tonight...sadly, he hasn't been found yet...

The outpouring of volunteers (over 1200 not including professional searchers, law enforcement, dog handlers, FBI, etc)...whether they were searching, donating food, or attending the nightly vigils, are truly awe inspiring. The love, and the need to help bring a child back home to their family, brought us all out to search.

The terrain was intense (and we're avid hikers) to say the least, we encountered swamps, snakes and so many thorns and thickets that I think I'll be picking them out of my skin for days...but none of that mattered. You heard no complaints, no whining and absolutely no negativity!!

I took a few pictures, but I'm too exhausted and emotionally drained to post them tonight....so I'll leave you with these....

I also learned that more women than men, were willing to tough it out, crawl on their bellies, spend hours raking through leaves, and would have stayed there all night if allowed...because we know the ache his mother feels.

Finally, as I walked out the woods this afternoon in tears that we had failed....I realized I was with my daughter, and my younger children were safe at home. She came home with me tonight....both of us, never will forget this day...no matter where we are, or where we go...we have this day.

...This little boy needs a miracle...his mother's arms are empty tonight...

On A Serious Note...

2011-10-26T16:14:00.003-04:00

I'm not one to lead a "serious" life. I laugh as often as possible, and am generally lighthearted in nature....with that being said...today, I am blogging as a mother of four children...NOT as a jewelry designer, artist, etc...

Last Sunday, approximately an hour away from me, a severely autistic, non verbal, little 8 year old boy went missing. Tonight will be the fourth night he might be alone/hurt in the dense woods surrounding Lake Anna State Park. You can read Robbie's story HERE.

Robert (Robbie) Wood - Richmond Times Dispatch Photo

Tomorrow, my oldest daughter and myself will join the thousands of volunteers, some coming from as far away as South Carolina, to search for this little boy. Please, any positive thoughts, prayers or other spiritual words would be greatly appreciated...not only for little Robbie, but also his family, friends, law enforcement and volunteer searchers. "We are going to continue this until we find him," said Hanover County, VA Sheriff Capt. Mike Trice today....

Most of us have children, and I can't begin to fathom the heartache....

Edited 10/26/11 6:08 p.m. - Tonight searchers are leaving glow sticks with food/blankets attached deep within the woods, in the hopes that although Robbie is cautious with people he doesn't know, that the glow sticks will catch his attention. Not only giving him warmth and food, but also allowing searchers to know where he might be! Just Awesome!!

Thank you...

Tania - Mother of four

Let's Talk Boho

2011-10-24T22:33:00.000-04:00

I ordered quite a bit of sari silk last week, and I can't seem to put it down! Sweet Baby Jesus!!! I can't believe I've never really worked with this before...it's AMAZING! It brings much needed texture and whimsy to jewelry designs. I've climbed aboard with the boho/gypsy style (a girl can only make sweet and dainty flowers for so long), and thought I'd share some of my favorites from Etsy.

Velvet Crushed Vintage

I believe I feel an obsession coming on!! :)

Lori Anderson's - The First Annual Virtual Craft Show

2011-10-18T18:21:00.000-04:00

Please check our Lori's site for all the details...but HURRY...spaces are filling up soon!! I'll be there, along with MANY others!

It's An Eye Candy Kinda Day

2011-10-18T12:57:00.000-04:00

I've spent the morning listing a few new bracelets to my Etsy store, and it's been a while since I shared recent works here on my blog...so.....

Hammered & patinaed vintage spoon bowl cuff bracelet

Upcycled silverware spoon handle bracelet featuring an artisan cupcake lampwork bead

Ok...this is sort of a joke in our family. Every single show, someone asks if I make western themed jewelry...so here you go...now I can say I do! :)

These hand stamped spoon bowl bracelets are quickly becoming my favorite. We always sell

all that we bring to shows...down to the one I'm wearing for the day!

I'm not giving up on summer!

Vintage beaded pearl charm...love this!

And of course I've done cancer awareness bracelets!

From my favorite poem by E.E. Cummings

"Paint the town red" stamped spoon bowl bracelet

And finally, a few of the new components I've started creating.

Whew...listing is almost as demanding as art shows! All of the above (and more) can be found on our Etsy store HERE

Hope everyone has a great Tuesday! I'm off to enjoy the 80 degree temperatures we're having today!

Who Are You?

2011-10-17T09:26:00.000-04:00

I, like most, fight to be myself, and express myself each and every day. It seems that what I thought I was yesterday, I'm not today. The dreams I had last night, have morphed in to something entirely different by the time I wipe the sleep from my eyes this morning. I know I can't be alone in this realization...can I?

Maybe the explanation is simply we dynamically change with each passing day, what we experience today, effects us to the point of adding many other facets to our personality, dreams and philosophy by the time the sun sets? Funny how when I was a "rat" on the corporate wheel, I never noticed this...I imagine that I was completely out of tune with myself, and the world around me. Now that what I do is so heavily centered around who I am, and how I feel (amongst a million other things), the realization can't help but slap me in the face!

How does one make sense of all this? Please let me in on the secret if you've figured it out! If we look back, this seems to be a pattern...after all, many artists have driven themselves mad...

Tadaa!!!!!

2011-10-13T18:26:00.003-04:00

And so....the Etsy shop has listings!!! Whew! That's hard work! Ok, now...don't get all excited just yet...it only has 9 items at the moment...but there's more to come!!

AND...I had my first sale within 10 minutes!!

You Can Find Me...

2011-10-12T17:14:00.001-04:00

...On Facebook HERE

...And on Etsy HERE (hopefully will have store listings by mid next week!)

St. Mary's Falls...Here We Come!!!

2011-10-11T16:26:00.000-04:00

Hopefully, providing I can get my tennis shoes on by the weekend, we're going to take a much needed day trip to St. Mary's Falls trail/hike near the Blue Ridge Parkway with the kids. We're regulars up that way. We've regularly hike to Crabtree Falls, and Spy Rock (you can read my recent blog about our Spy Rock hike HERE). We'd like to hike to The Priest, but I'm not sure my younger ones could make the hike...so we'll save that for a little later.

St. Mary's Falls...it's more of a trail than a hike...which is a good thing as I limp along with a broken toe! I can't wait to pack a picnic lunch, and spend the days with the kids...without gameboys, PS3, DVD's, iPods, cell phones and the like to interfere!

Hopefully, we'll see some of this:

And this:

So, while I gripe and complain about living "in the middle of nowhere" quite often, I love that within 2 hours I can have the mountains or the beach for our viewing pleasure and memory making!!

I'm Not Getting Back Out of the Bed Again Today!!

2011-10-10T10:51:00.000-04:00

Broken toe...what a way to start the week off! Who knew a little toe fracture could hurt so darn much? Oww! I've already banged it again and dropped the box of Splenda on it this morning...figures. I'm waving the white flag and retreating back to my bed for the rest of the day!

I have lots of crochet projects to finish, but my new soy yarn keeps whispering my name from it's hiding spot in the corner...so much for "out of sight, out of mind" theory. Let's see if I have the will power to block the temptation and finish the 7 sets of fingerless gloves I have started (don't think there's a huge demand for singles) but never finished.

And while I'm sitting still (that rarely happens) I couldn't help but wander over to Etsy to peruse the yummy crocheted wares!

Japanese lace crochet pattern from Kakaeight

As much as I'd love to crochet an afghan, my ADD tendencies would get in the way.

Beautiful!! Wool n Hook

My youngest would LOVE this owl purse pattern from Angels Chest

And how adorable is this viking hat from Heather's Things?

I want this!!!! MODA Crochet

Ok...time to stop procrastinating and work on mates for gloves!

Darn, Patty....

2011-10-05T19:50:00.000-04:00

of My Life Under The Bus....has made me want to learn how to etch...like I need another obsession!

Just take a look at these:

And these....

One of my favorites....

I can't stop myself.....

You can find your favorite on Etsy (click the pic)

Although, Patty's shop is closed for a "hot minute" she'll be back soon....just prepping for a show, and believe me it takes lots of WORK!!!

BUT...you can enter to win her give-away HERE and you can find her on Facebook HERE

I'm Warning You Now....

2011-10-04T22:59:00.000-04:00

I just need a vent...a school related vent (surprise, surprise).

**Let me preface by saying that I don't expect teachers to do all the teaching...we work diligently at home on a daily basis. Everything I'm posting here, I've already voiced to the school...and I just get blank stares. We live in a "one school" county, meaning the school she is in, is the ONLY public school in the county. Period. We simply can't afford private schools or even tutoring until I find a full time job.

My youngest is dyslexic...well the school can't deem her that because it's considered a medical diagnosis, so her IEP has decoding deficit listed as the learning disability...doesn't matter how they word it to me...it's the same thing. Anyway, my child is 10 years old and can't read or write more than her name...and I'm dead serious!! She's been receiving "special ed" classes for 4 years now...and in my opinion, there should be a little more progression.

This year = new school for her. I walked in the first day and requested an IEP meeting with all of her teachers, and although they didn't understand why I wanted all her teachers present (don't you have to read in every subject?) they obliged. I thought we were off on the right foot, and I was being a proactive, concerned parent advocating for her child....instead I feel like I got the old brush off!

It seems that her "special ed" this year consists of the special ed teacher in her regular reading class with the reading teacher assisting WHOEVER needs assistance..."integrated learning." Now, I'm no educator, but you can't just pick up a 5th grade reading book and expect her to catch on...it doesn't work that way!

Fast forward to last week, when for the 100th time, I receive a letter to sign her up for "optional" after school tutoring. I declined, as in the past these are usually more of a group-everyone-into-the-cafeteria-and-we'll-do-homework-together sessions, and that doesn't work for her. Well the principal didn't like my "no thank you" comment I wrote on said 100th letter and quickly picked up the phone to call me.

Gracie failed her math SOL (Standard of Learning) last year, so this year not only does she have her regular 5th grade math class, she also has an additional remedial math class as well. I understand the remedial math class is mandatory because she failed, I've gotten over it.

Back to phone call from the principal... She tells me that the tutoring is also mandatory, even though the sign up sheet clearly states "optional." I bucked her on that, and requested state/county documents stating the exact policy...still haven't received them! Ms. Principal then goes into chipper motivational speech mode and says "we just want her to pass this year's SOL!" Fire lit through me!! My response was "well that's where we have our problem...see, I just want her to learn to read & write!"

So here it is the first week of October, and the kids have been back in school almost two months, and still no confirmation on getting her in the remedial reading group!! If their actions don't give someone a clear view of their priorities, I don't know what would! They could care less about teaching her to read/write...as long as the school is accredited....over my dead body!

I won't even go into how today, the so called special ed teacher called me...after getting Gracie out of class, asking her for my phone number and then using Gracie's cell phone (because she didn't want to take the time to go look it up) to call me about a meeting she said she scheduled but "forgot" to notify me about??

Guess where I'll be bright and early tomorrow morning? :)

Now, because I didn't want this to be a complete b**chfest, here are just a few examples of how dyslexics "see" words/numbers on a page:

Click Here For Interactive Examples

And also two other examples:

Now...how is she EVER going to pass their precious SOL tests without learning to read? They can put her in every remedial math class but if she can't read the printed material, she can never pass! Why am I the only one who gets that?

AARRRGGHHH!! If you've gotten this far...God bless you!!

Having a Ball

2011-10-03T09:20:00.001-04:00

...of yarn that is! I have such an addictive personality. I think I love yarn just as much as I revel in beads, wire and clay! I have bins, upon bins of colorful balls of yarn....and just as many bins of finished/mostly unfinished projects. I'm not the expert crocheter, and you can forget knitting...it seems I don't have enough coordination to knit more than a huge knot of yarn! But, what better way to spend an autumn morning than perusing for more scrumptious "must have" balls of fun?

Woodlands super chunky from Funkyarns

Recycled sari silk yarn from Amber Threads

Thick & thin merino wool from Autumn Rose I love the colors in this one!

Recycled T shirt yarn from Mike's T Shirt Yarn

And finally, my favorite yarn to work with...bamboo!!!

Bump on a Log bamboo yarn from Quovadishandspun

Hand spun carbon bamboo yarn from Larkspur Funny Farm

Yep...it looks like it's going to be a crocheting kind of day today...anything to avoid delving into the show jewelry to what can and can't be repaired/reworked!

It Was Just One of Those Days...

2011-10-02T19:15:00.003-04:00

....you know, the kind where you should've just stayed in bed? Yep, that about sums up yesterday's show. Don't get me wrong, we did well, and I love venturing to new shows, and meeting new people, but everything went wrong...and I mean EVERYTHING...to the point that it would have been hilarious any other day...

I wake up early...3 a.m. early, but I was ready to go...feeling good about EVERYTHING...that's what I get for being so cocky! :) We had a great spot...on the corner, in front of an awesome historic home renovated into The Lake House Restaurant. So, you're wondering what went wrong?

Well, as quaint as the town of Clarksville, VA is...I failed to take into account possible gale force winds...ok maybe not gale force, but damn close!!

Now, Virginia isn't usually chilly in October...but of course yesterday was freezing and windy! Because we had to set up in the parallel parking spaces, we had nothing to stake our tent or sides to. I really wasn't worried, as we have it weighted down pretty well...or so I thought! Three of us finally got the sides up without getting blown in to the land of Oz, and began setting up. By this time, I can't feel my hands, and because I'm vain and wanted to look cute...it's not like I brought gloves, wrist warmers, or anything remotely warm! Dear, sweet, husband walked over to grab me a cup of coffee that I could ~~soak my hand in~~ drink to warm up a little before the crowds flocked.

Disaster #1 for the day? Our sign easel was blown down the street...in pieces, I might add!

I think it can be repaired. Actual easel is history, but I think even though the frame is in pieces, it broke at the corners, and came off of the backing. The actual banner has a few scuffs, but it will survive. I will not mention how badly a brad through the finger felt later in the day when I picked it up to load back in the van.

Granted, it really doesn't have much weight to it, but it's never been a problem at outdoor show before. Oh well, I wasn't going to let one hiccup ruin my day before it started!

Day was going beautifully, and had quite a few interesting conversations with customers (my husband says I always attract the "colorful" people wherever I go) but I was constantly on guard, as they left the street open (first I've ever seen where that's done) and I was afraid I was going to get sideswiped a couple of times.

Wind was a problem all day. Just little things, such as knocked over display busts, etc...nothing major.

2 p.m.: Enter gale force winds! Seriously, It was everything all 3 of us could do to hold on to the tent so that it wouldn't blow into the street and hit cars driving down the road. I know my tent is cheap crap, but due to four children who think they need to eat three times a day...and every day at that :) ...it's not in the budget right now, so I'll forge on with what I have!

2:30 p.m.: The good Lord gave me a sign that it was time to pack up before we killed some poor unsuspecting soul with our para sailing tent, when this also took a loss on to the sidewalk...

Our "new" (2nd time out) earring display. We upcycled a cracked and needing love oval window frame from a Habit For Humanity resale store, and we worked our butts off to put this together. The easel my husband made and then the oval is screwed to the easel. I guess it weighs at least 50 + lbs...it's MASSIVE!

Anyway...down it went, earrings to the sidewalk, and we hurried over to access the damage...it wasn't pretty! I'm not a crier, but I was tempted when I saw that a lot of the more detailed pairs were broken....beyond repair, and I literally had to turn and walk away when I saw that the only artisan lampwork I've ever owned were broken. I was able to salvage 2 of the best (still chipped) matching beads that I can wear myself.

Here are the victims in their splendid glory:

Both from Modern Trails on Etsy

Again, the damage to the display can be repaired, so it's not a total loss. But, needless to say, we totally broke down and came home after the sign from above...chapped lips, frozen fingers, windburned skin and all! :)

In the long run, I'll look back on this particular show and laugh...in fact, I can almost chuckle about it now...I'm sad that some of my work was lost, but A LOT of it found new, well-loved homes before the catastrophe!

**Pssttt...my oldest is out for the evening and I snagged her laptop so I could post photos to make me feel a little better!

Round Three...

2011-10-01T04:31:00.000-04:00

Because I'm young (don't laugh...it's not funny), because having 4 children leaves me with too much time on my hands, but mainly because I'm just "not right" (I'm a lefty by the way) here I am up at 3:30 a.m. (again) on a Saturday morning! Yes, I'm aware I probably could be committed on that fact alone...never mind this is show 3 in as many weekends...and the 4th out of 5 weekends...I'm expecting the white-jacket-men to show up any time now!!

Now after the above insanity, I've also been working on some components and I'm hoping to open an Etsy shop in October...just as soon as I catch up on some sleep...I'm exhausted!!

My poor laptop is still dead as a doornail, so no pretty eye candy just yet....bear with me...

Well, short blog, I know, but the alarm is signalling it's time to wake everyone, and get my circus on the road, if the kids don't dollar-me-to-death today maybe we'll have a great day! :)

Resurrection Failure!

2011-09-26T21:02:00.001-04:00

I won't even begin to describe the "fun-filled" past few days/weekend I've had...there would simply be too many not-so-nice-wash-my-mouth-out-with-soap words used! Let's just say this happened Thursday night:

*insert cartoon picture of my laptop crashing*

All while trying to print out my 4 pages (Arghhh!!!) of vendor instructions for the show this past Saturday...had never done this show, nor did I know my way there...awesome!! Notice there also is no mention of the referred to show...I'll leave that for another day...

I've spent the day trying to revive my well loved, yet overused laptop. Fail. It's history...

Gone are all the pictures I just took last week (yep...the ones for my upcoming bead/components Etsy store), which I also deleted from my SD card so my youngest could use it in her camera! Not to mention all the favorites, links, etc that are gone...what a way to start my week!

I do have my daughter's archaic Dell laptop, but as you can see from my attempt to insert a picture...it's slightly lacking, and won't accept my printer driver...and yep, another show this weekend (same verse, same as the first).

I'll leave out the part about a replacement being out of reach at the moment....I'd put my big girl panties on...but I can't find them! (Had a cute GIF for that last statement too).

Bear with me, as I try to seek divine intervention and wish a workable laptop into fruition! :)

Edited to add: Ugh...just remembered all my crochet patterns that took me years to collect are gone too!!And yes, I know I'm being a whiny baby, that in the grand scheme of things a crashed computer is completely trivial! I get that...I really do, but combined with everything else I'm stressing about, I've come to the conclusion that I must have had a horseshoe up my arse in a past life...because I sure haven't caught a break in this one lately!!

Inspiration

2011-09-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

It's inspiration/quote day!!! Mainly, due to the fact that I'm so busy I don't know whether I found a rope or lost a horse!!! Three shows in as many weekends, and I always wait until the last minute to prepare and create. (Hey, I have four children...I live for unorganized chaos!!)

I need to keep this in mind every day!

This next one is probably true:

And finally....

Wait...and this one, simply because I despise the show and am an avid reader! :)

*All photos snagged from Pinterest

Now, that I've consumed a cup of coffee, and must get busy!!

Thinking Aloud....

2011-09-20T20:22:00.000-04:00

Just a thought...

1. As much as I LOVE designing & making jewelry, I'm debating on starting an Etsy shop with bead sets & components. The Blog Hop really opened my eyes to how diverse jewelry design can be, and my partner Tari, of Clay Buttons, proved that what I thought were "dainty" beads can really be turned into anything!! Just take a look:

Pictures of Tari Sasser's work from the Bead Soup I sent her...amazing!!

Of course I'll still be a regular at shows, and hopefully soon, I can find a reliable, affordable site host to boot! There's so much to work out like pricing (DEFINITELY not my strong point), set sizes, did I mention pricing? :)

Any suggestions, advice...and slaps in the face are more than welcome!!