Who Are You?

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...

Pinterest

Thinking Aloud....

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!!

Day 1 of Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Blog Hop

Psssst:  If you're looking for my Bead Soup creation...it's in the previous post!

Day 1 of  Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Blog Hop:  Wow!! I've been able to visit approximately 1/2 of the blogs today, and with each new blog, I'm nothing short of amazed at the soup mixes sent/received, the talent, the creativity and craftsmanship of my fellow hoppers.  I honestly can't begin to pick  a favorite...every single piece created has a uniqueness all it's own! 

I always try to take something away from every experience...the good ones (in this case) and also the bad (too many to count!)  and here's what I've learned so far:

1.  Having someone pick out what you will base your creation around is a completely foreign concept to almost all of us!  Whether we create our own beads & components, or prefer to purchase we're still making the choice...take personal choice away...and well, you have 362 people scratching their heads for quite some time! :)

2.  Every piece I've viewed today is completely different...further proving that each one of us is an unique individual...yet we all share a bond of beads/jewelry.  Something as simple as that brought us all together, where nothing about our differences mattered...maybe we should encourage Congress to start their own Bead Soup party?

3.  The encouraging comments, thoughts & accolades make me proud to be a part of this community.  I know all too well the feeling of not "being good enough" at times...and the  inspiring comments I read today could just be the little lift someone needed...myself included!

4.  Lampwork artisans still amaze me!!

5.  As well as the intriguing work of bead weavers!!  I have little experience with seed beads (mostly limited to picking them off of the floor, after dropping more than I've strung)...I can't imagine the hours that go in to these tiny works of art!

6.  Visiting all 362 blogs in a weekend was just a pipe dream of mine...nothing more!  I got way too side tracked reading more than just "The Soup" blogs...story of my life!  Of course having 4 kids, a silverware bending husband, and the world's most needy dog stuck inside on a rainy day wasn't much help!

7.  Lori Anderson deserves some type of medal, to be knighted or the like! :)

8.  I drank way too many cups of coffee...could be the reason why I'm still blog hopping 18 hours later...please Lord don't let the kids wake up before noon!

9.  I should of explained my work in a more detailed description...I was just too eager to start my trip around the world!  I know we were encouraged to dig deep into our own stash for complimenting accents for our pieces, but I didn't want a piece that was more me, than my partner!  I want to look at my necklace and be reminded of Tari...therefore, I left it simple.

10.  After the said 18 hours, I have deleted more of this post than I will end up posting...and I need to back away...especially when I can't even string a coherent sentence together!

Soup. Is. On!!!

Yes Ma'am....today is the day...or should I say the start of MANY days!!  I know for myself, it will take me all day weekend to visit all 362 blogs!!  The weather here will be perfect for an all weekend blog hop...rainy, dreary, and a little chilly.  That's ok...I have my own pot of soup (chicken n' dumplings) simmering, hot coffee brewing and plenty of eye candy to look forward to, with Moobie Grace herself by my side!  She loves to peruse all the beautiful creations!

I know this hop was more than an overwhelming task for Bead Soup Blog Hop Hostess Lori Anderson of Pretty Things, during less than ideal circumstances, but it's SO appreciated!!

My perfectly matched up Bead Soup partner is Tari Sasser of Creative Impressions in Clay and to recap this is the haul of ceramic goodies she sent my way...I'm a lucky girl!

Cool, funky, bright & fun...Tari sent a little box of happiness my way!

Although, completely out of my comfort zone (funny how Lori knew exactly where that was!) I was determined to create something...all for myself this time!!!  I don't think I could possibly do justice to Tari's beads & buttons...especially since I'm used to making my own components and beads...who knew working with someone else's fantastic creations could prove so difficult?  Here's what I came up with...and actually didn't reconfigure after my 874 attempt. 

Tari's bold pendant and coordinating beads on my copper hammered wire wraps and copper chain.  Finished with Tari's funky and fun toggle clasp.  I *heart* all 20+ inches of this!!!  I'm thinking chunky sweaters, boots & jeans with this pop of color this winter!!

ETA:  I'll be adding a full shot of the necklace tomorrow.  It's pouring here, and my sub par camera doesn't like the lighting in the house!!!

And the beginnings of another:

These beads are my favorite!!  An eclectic tie dyed effect that I'm still debating on how to use to their full potential.  I also want to use the cool button as the clasp...somehow.  I'll be sure to post pictures of the new piece just as soon as my creativity kicks in!  Please, take a minute to browse Tari's site:  Clay Buttons, I promise you'll find something that you just have to take home for yourself!

For those of you that missed what I sent my partner, Tari...here's a quick shot:

I can't wait to visit Tari's blog to see what she created!

Again, a HUGE thank you to Lori Anderson and all that it entails to pull off a hop of this proportion.  Now, I'm off for a hop around the world...literally...just take a look for yourself!

Just in awe!!!

HAPPY HOPPING!!!

Only In Virginia....

Last Sunday we took a few of the kids to hike to Spy Rock in Nelson county, VA.  It was quite the hike...complete with everything hurting by Monday morning!  On our way down what we thought at the time was only a thunderstorm graced us with torrential downpour!

Here's a few highlights:

Definitely worth the hike!

Breathtaking views from atop of Spy Rock.

Only a 10 year old thinks that running on top of a mountain is a great idea!

Great spot for a nap.

On the long, albeit scenic drive home, we encountered numerous detours due to downed trees.  No problem...we're flexible like that.  My heart lurched when I glanced to my right and noticed a 10 foot wide path right through the middle of a countryside church.  I didn't take any pictures, as I was always told by my mom "not to become an obnoxious tourist during someone else's misfortune."  Turns out we just missed a tornado by about 15 minutes.

Tuesday morning was like Christmas in my mailbox!  I received a few expected packages and also my Bead Soup beads from my partner Tari Sasser!!!  Woot-woot!

I quickly snapped some shots (next post...stay tuned) of the colorful ceramic creations she sent, and got to work.  I stepped out on the back deck so a few of my pieces could take a quick dip in liver of sulfur when the ground started shaking...and the dog and I were slowly getting shaken off of the deck.  Yep....what everyone has watched on t.v. for the past 2 days....earthquake in Virginia....epicenter approximately an hour from us, in Mineral, VA.  Now, a 5.9 quake is a just a Sunday picnic out west...not so much for us east coast country folk!  We've had a few aftershocks...the worst being around 1 a.m. last night...but now we've moved on to bigger things heading our way today....hurricane Irene!

My lights are flickering as I type...so I'm going to batten down the hatches for now....

Me, Myself & Irene

We've just gotten over our little earthquake and now are gearing up to face Irene.  I have TONS to share once I complete my fight the masses at the grocery store mission this morning! 

Tari Sasser from Creative Impressions in Clay is my Bead Soup Partner & I received some cool & funky ceramic beads this week from her!  I have lots of photography to share...but first I must batten down the hatches on the homefront!

Frozen Charlottes

I have been intrigued with "frozen Charlottes" for quite some time. 

These historical dolls date back from 1860-1900, ranging from an inch in size up to 18 inches.  Many of these cuties were rescued from a dig at the doll factory yard in Thuringia, Germany. The arms and legs do not move or are "frozen." Children used to play with these bisque dolls, and even made clothes for them. Sometimes called bathing dolls (backside unglazed, therefore allowing them to float in the tub), and were even used to decorate or were baked into cakes.

Why "Frozen Charlotte?"   During the mid 1800's there was a story printed that later turned into an American poem about Fair Charlotte. This tale spoke of a vain Charlotte who refused to bundle up on her way to the ball. She froze in her carriage and her beau is said to have died of a broken heart. This story was told to remind children to bundle up when going outside.

Etsy:  Okiedokieartichoky

Etsy:  EKSupplies

Etsy:  OscarCrow

One of above 1 inch babies is on it's way to me....my very own Charlotte.  Now...I'm thinking a pendant of some sort?  Of course my "sensible" husband questioned:  "Please tell me you don't plan on wearing that creation?  Never mind...I know you will...if it causes a second glance, you're all over it!  Only you would wear a 100 year old, dug from the ground and broken doll and think it was mainstream."  I love him!  He knows me too well!

I've Led A Sheltered Life

I realized some time ago, that I've never worked with lampwork beads...well other than the mass produced "generic" versions at the beginning of my beading journey...and they proved to be not so fun to work with.  I know, I know, I've committed a cardinal sin in the bead realm!

Since, I've drooled for hours at the gorgeous artisan glass, but never bit the bullet...nor could I even begin to make a decision on which to try out...until last night.  There are SO many talented "torchers" out there, that I really had no clue where to even start...so I let my eyes make the decision for me.

Here's my small purchase that I can't wait to receive:

Are these not amazing??  They remind me of wintry tutus.  Can't wait!

Snatched up these as well...I mean, how could I not?

Both were purchased from Modern Trails on Etsy.  Beautiful!!!  I left plenty of her mesmerizing work for everyone else...although I was tempted!  Now, I'll be watching the darn mailbox and stalking the mailman til they arrive...I have a one track mind like that!

Bead Soup Partner

This year I'm participating in Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Party Blog Hop.  I'm excited, to say the least.  I received my "bead partner" via email, and about broke my neck to check out her blog.  Enter apprehension...



Tari of Creative Impressions in Clay is more than accomplished!!  Her work is full of color and whimsical!  Just take a look:

Told ya!  You can browse her funky selection HERE.

I finally got Tari's soup out in the mail yesterday.  I made my mix weeks ago, but due to an unforeseen road block with the school system (that's a whole other blog post) I had my plate quite full!!

Anyway....here's "the goods!!!"

 

Torch Day!

Clay is my "go to" artistically speaking, but lately I've had more funks than brilliant ideas.  I thought maybe I'd branch out just a little....still incorporating clay because I can't see myself giving it up for any length of time.  So today I went out and got a soldering torch & iron.  I have tons of gifted copper wire in an array of gauges, so I'll practice with that first... and I'll be soldering everything in sight, I'm sure!

I also received my Lori Anderson give away package....actually it came Tuesday or Wednesday & my darling husband "forgot" to give it to me!  He thought I'd ordered something online again and was holding it hostage! :)  Silly man...I never order anything!!! 

I"ll be back to post my prize from the generous Lori this evening...off to NOT burn down the house with my torch!

For Once...I Have Nothing to Say!

It's been quite awhile since I've picture shared...that, and I have absolutely nothing witty or exciting to share!

Leaves & berries necklace.  Polymer clay leaves with cerise turquoise rondelles.

Polymer clay sea urchins, with patina added.  Not exactly the vision I had created in my mind...but it works.  Copper wire balls also with a little patina thrown in for good measure.

This is what happens when our yard needs a good mowing...I wander around picking weeds to imprint.  Polymer clay hollow lentil & toggle with wood, brass & clay accents.

Still searching for the perfect urchin...Dark coral polymer clay with a wash of antique white and silver.

Organic aged & distressed, then accent painted.  Brass & polymer accents.

Shipwrecked.  Sea green urchins with gold coral, yellow & green jade, urchin stick, and bronze & creamy pearls.  Wire wrapped formed connectors (still getting the hang of wire wrapping).

Polymer and pearl bracelet.

Experimented with tri-colors.  Polymer focal and toggle with copper, green glass & chrysocolla beads.

Shipwrecked chandelier earrings.

So, there you have it!  A sampling of what occupies my time & thoughts these days.  I've been trying to branch out from my typical danity pieces, and loving it!!

Re-Evaluation Time

There comes a point in time where we all have to step back and re-evaluate.  Whether in our relationships with spouses, friends and children, our careers, or what needs improvement within ourselves.  I have come to that crossroad...

Crossroads

Oh, how I wish mine was as picturesque.  I struggle daily with the want need to create.  The days I can't get in to the studio to work, I end up irritable and moody.  Sadly, I've come to realize that while I can create for days on end without even stopping to eat a proper meal, none of it matters if I can't get a workable business plan for myself together.  Business woman, I am not!  While I thoroughly enjoy the process, I can't for the life in me figure out or obtain even a meager living by doing so....welcome to my crossroad....

Ramblings...

In the past week or more I've filled out more than 50 online job applications, and have been turned away from just as many...the incomprehensible thing is; I DON'T WANT any of these jobs!!!  Not a one!!!  My desire to contribute to our family income is great, and also needed...so why am I in such turmoil over this decision?  Because only in the past 16 months have I finally found myself...reclaimed who I really am, what I stand for, what I excel at, and what I'm passionate about...sad but true.

Always Be Yourself

I've read every book, online article and success story available...and I'm still lost on how to market myself and the cliental I need to succeed.  Every day, I feverishly work in the studio...all day...12+ hour days...in which by the end I still question "why" I'm still pushing myself so hard!  It's a fight that I'm not sure why I'm still doing...but know it's what I must do...So, I'll continue to fight to be myself...

"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are." ~e.e. cummings

"Almost every man wastes part of his life in attempts to display qualities which he does not possess, and to gain applause which he cannot keep." ~Samuel Johnson, The Rambler, 1750

"Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else." ~Judy Garland

"Learn to... be what you are, and learn to resign with a good grace all that you are not." ~Henri Frederic Amiel

"You were born an original. Don't die a copy." ~John Mason

"All my life I had been looking for something, and everywhere I turned someone tried to tell me what it was. I accepted their answers too, though they were often in contradiction and even self-contradictory. I was naïve. I was looking for myself and asking everyone except myself questions which I, and only I, could answer. It took me a long time and much painful boomeranging of my expectations to achieve a realization everyone else appears to have been born with: that I am nobody but myself." ~Ralph Ellison, "Battle Royal"

A Little Mixing It Up Is Good For The Soul

I finally have gotten around to snapping a few pictures of my new work...kinda grungy, but I like them in gypsy-ish, woodsy kind of way!  Not my usual sort of work, but I like branching out, and attempting new ideas.  Granted, there are still kinks to be worked out...and they are time consuming...so...we'll see where this path takes me!

"Brass" polymer clay bee hollow medallion with brass chain and findings and mysterious aqua faceted stone (I have no clue what it is...I *think* it might be candy jade) and aqua shell spear dangle & robin's egg blue ceramic round charm.

Close up of the bee.  Many, many layers of patina...it started out as a grayish brown clay.

Honeycomb "brass" polymer clay lentil

Carved (completely by accident, as I was trying to shave of the roughness and my knife slipped & decided to go "whole hog" on it) clay toggle clasp.

Fleur De Lis pendant.  this one is still in the works...just not happy with the finished look of the necklace.  Hollow polymer clay "brass" lentil with teal cut glass and peach marble accents.

Closeup...it's missing something...I just can't put my finger on it yet...so it's hanging out (literally) in my view while I mull it over.

Stamped polymer toggle.  Aged & distressed.

Silver hollow polymer ginkgo pendant.  Pearl & Swarovski charms.

Carved & distressed toggle clasp.

So, while it's a far cry from a PMC finished piece...it'll occupy my creativity...for now!  And because I have an addictive personality, I just ordered 10+ patina colors!!

Window Shopping

I love to spend hours of my life perusing Etsy, sometimes with a specific genre in mind, other times I just wander.  It's window shopping at my fingertips!  And when you live in a town where the only shopping experience is Dollar General...well...you get my point!   Here's where my wandering lead me today (while I should of been in the studio):


Love, love, love this leather cuff!! 

From:  CJohannesen

I'm all about some ballet flats, and these look SO comfortable...and vegan to boot!

From:  TheGeneration

Painters fascinate me...which could probably have a lot to do with the fact, that painting (even walls) is definitely not my niche!)  I want this hanging in my house!!!!

From:  MamaPainter

Lampwork beads.  Enough said!

From:  ModernTrails

This would look great in my teal, orange & gray schemed bedroom, that I've yet to get accomplished!

From:  TheHomeCentric

And I'd have to have an orange one to go with the teal, right?  This fits the bill.  I love to mix dainty, frilly, girlie things with more organic/rustic items...

From:  LivyCreation



That concludes today's window shopping excursion....