Monday, December 30, 2013

A New Year. A New Beginning. How Do You Begin?

Time really does fly by. Look, we are already on the brink of a new year! How do you like to begin your New Year? Do you make resolutions? Do you clean and organize your home? Or do you just plod on the way you've been doing?

I happen to love the thought of a new year and a new beginning. Here are a few things I like to do to start the year off. I don't call them resolutions...these are just things I always do.

1. Organize & Purge- I love to clear out the excess in our house. I sort and get rid of clothing, household items and my overflowing art supplies. (I hate parting with those but sometimes I must) I also begin that awful process of getting things together for taxes!
Last year, I organized my art space in the basement with new storage and containers for my many art/jewelry making items. So this year all I'll have to do is tidy up the art room...a big job for sur.

2. Clean- Anyone who knows me, knows that cleaning is not a fun activity for me. I LOVE a clean home but don't like to be the one cleaning. I find it a complete waste of my creative time. With that said, I typically set aside a few solid days to clan the house baseboards to windows. This year I will set aside News Years day for the start of this task....goes hand and hand with my organizing thing :)

3. Do something New- The start of the new year is a the perfect time to try something new. Last year I began running. Totally new for me. I also took a couple glass classes, one with Heather Trimlett and the other with Kim Edwards. I took a few painting class also...one with Flora Bowley, and the other with Pauline Agnew. This year I will take some more glass classes but will also take blacksmithing and welding. I'm also going to get certified to teach yoga. I enjoy begin a student and learning new things?

Saturday, October 19, 2013


Gargoyles. These creepy creatures have actually been a great seller! Its fun making them since you can see their individual personalities emerge with each push or pull of the hot glass.

My sugar skulls are also a favorite of those who like the unusual. I'm actually going to make MYSELF a Days of the Dead necklace. I always end up selling things which that is what I do but I'd like something for myself.....I shall construct soon!


I've been sick this last week so I have to catch up on some house keeping today but later I'll be out at the torch melting some glass into submission!

Friday, August 16, 2013

Arts at the Gardens


This weekend is the Arts at the Gardens show at Sonnenberg. I adore this show. 22 years ago Pete and I were married their and our anniversary is tomorrow! What a great way to celebrate our 22nd year of marriage. Memories fill my mind of our special day. My mother and grandmother (Non) were there but sadly they both have passed away but are forever in my heart. Do you think it would be weird to bring photos of our wedding day tomorrow?? I'm feeling sentimental :)

For all who are local, please stop out to say hello and to see what is new. I always have something new....its goes quickly typically so make Saturday your day to shop the show!

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

A Class with Sharon Peters

Last week it was the Gathering and my class with Kim Edwards. This week I took a class with Sharon Peters and boy was it silly fun! Sharon is a warm, funny, giving instructor with a great sense of humor!

Sharon's work in not my usual style but I love taking classes. You just never know what you will learn. I picked up lots of great tips besides the techniques she was teaching and I WILL be making some silly style beads.......why not?


I thought I'd make some "silly" beads to give to students this year as rewards. Or, maybe I'll present them as auction items to raise money for the art room.......I'd love to get an Elmo to use in my room. Not the sesame street character, an Elmo is a document projector which can be used daily in the art room.


Sharon is the queen of silly beads. She makes dragons, goblins, chickens....all in a silly creative way. Can you see the start of Goblin eyes on the bead she is working on in the flame?

I'm waiting to pick up my beads so I have nothing really to show you of mine. 
On a side note: If you haven't, I'd recommend taking as many classes as you can. 
You just never know what cool, useful information you'll pick up!


Friday, July 26, 2013

Gathering purchases


The Double Helix I purchased yesterday. This bundle was only 140.00! Typically I spend close to 300.00. I guess I'll have to get more today!

Overall I was really conservative in my purchasing. There really wasn't too many vendors and really I do have plenty of stuff already.

Now that I'm writing this, I WILL be picking up more Double Helix today. Its such an incredible glass if you can get it to do its thing. THATS the trick! I have not yet consistently mastered that!!

I'm working the Silent Auction table later today so if you are at the Gathering, please stop by and say hello.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

The Gathering

The International Society of Glass Beadmaking conference called the Gathering starts tomorrow right here in Rochester.  Hundreds of glass bead makers meet to learn the latest techniques, discover new tools, take classes and socialize.  The trade show begins later tomorrow and everyone races in there to get stocked up on glass and all the new must haves. Lots of fun. Lots of money being spent!

Today was the first day of a two day workshop I'm taking on making glass chain maille. What fun its been so far! I can really see how I might eventually use it in my work.


Here is our group of 10 crazy glass workers. Around us there were about 5 other classes going on too. Everyone was very focused!



On my lunch break I went around taking some pictures for a photography class I'm currently taking.


The class is on taking images with your phone and then apps are reviewed so you know what to expect from each. I love taking photos with my phone. So immediate and the apps you can get for manipulating your image are amazing.


I think this filter really gives a cool effect. 


If you get a chance, check out Kim Edwards work on easy. She does some amazing things with glass!

Friday, July 12, 2013

Glass + Paint = A Great Day!


I guess I'm kind of addicted to making these. Buttons or pendants??


My latest painting. It took me forever it seemed to finish this. I love all the colors....and all the places to look at. Some might say its busy but I say its rich!


Summer vacation means time to paint and make beads! I'm only a few feet from my studio and torch when I'm painting outdoors. So nice for someone with a little touch of ADD!




Sunday, July 7, 2013

Something about Purple

Purple has been my color lately. 
Not necessarily a conscience choice either.
This is one of my Mandala pendants.
I really love this pendant.
Love the denim blues, the wonderful purples and the turquoise accents.
This pendant is changeable too.
Something about Purple.

Look here for some interesting facts on the color purple.


Friday, July 5, 2013

Running, Yoga and Vegan Lifestyle

Running and yoga have become my latest obsessions. Both make me feel good in different ways. Running pushes me in my endurance but is rather meditative. Yoga is stretching, balance, flexibility and very meditative! I take classes however I've recently become hooked on the Blissology dvd's that are amazing! Check out the link and explore the site.

I've been vegetarian for over 25 years and my sister very recently decided to jump on the wagon too. She has been doing more vegan recipes and then once I really thought about it, I'm considered vegan too. I don't necessarily like labels......I think people tend to flaunt them for some reason......but for those who like them, there you have it.

My sister shared one of her favorite blogs last night when we were there for the 4th. Great stuff!! Check out Food Doodle. I'm making these energy bites today.........they are awesome!

Energy Bites
makes approximately 2 dozen depending on size
  • 1/2 C nut butter(almond butter, peanut butter, sunflower seed butter or any other nut or seed butter.  Anything will work here)
  • 1/3 C honey(I believe brown rice syrup would also work.  I’m not sure of thinner sweeteners such as maple syrup and agave though as they may not hold together as well)
  • 1 C old fashioned rolled oats(you can toast for a nuttier flavor at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes)
  • 1 C shredded unsweetened coconut(you can substitute any dry ingredients for this, wheat bran or germ, oat bran, some ground flax seed(I wouldn’t recommending using an entire cup!), any kind of ground nuts or seeds.  For a cookie dough type bite try adding a few tablespoon of your favorite whole grain flour)
  • 1-2 tsp vanilla
  • pinch of sea salt if using a natural nut butter with no added salt
  • 1-2 tsp your favorite spices or spice combinations(optional)
  • 1/2 C other addins(any kind of whole or roughly chopped nuts or seeds, dried fruit, good quality chocolate chips, etc)
In a large bowl add the nut butter, honey or other sweetener, vanilla and salt if needed.  Use less vanilla if yours is very strong or more if you really enjoy the vanilla flavor and don’t buy an alcohol based kind.  If all your ingredients are room temperature you should be able to stir to combine.  If this is difficult you can warm in the microwave for a few seconds or even place the bowl in an inch or two hot water for a few minutes to soften everything.  Once this is combined add the remaining ingredients.
In this case I used almond butter and for my addins I used equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds and mini chocolate chips.  Mix well.  Once it’s all combined place in the fridge for about 30 minutes.  Then remove from the fridge, scoop out some dough and roll into a ball.  I find it’s much easier, and works better to squeeze the handful together to compact it and then roll it into a ball.
If yours are too sticky you can considering adding more dry ingredients into them or rolling them in something like ground nuts, coconut, etc so they aren’t as sticky.  Place the balls in an airtight container either in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy snacks.


Read more: http://fooddoodles.com/2011/06/28/one-bowl-all-natural-no-bake-energy-bites/#ixzz2YB5ORWhU

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Summer Vacation Begins Today!

The school year has ended for teachers, the day camp I was teaching at is completed and now I am ready to begin my time of rest, relaxation and recovery from a busy year!

I love my day job as an art teacher but I don't believe many realize how draining it is to be with children  5 days a week in a scheduled "work" environment. No matter how fun and exciting teaching art is, there still is all the preparation of materials, record keeping, report cards, meetings and the high energy of young people. I love it but rest is great too!

I am finishing up one last order for Hearts for Hannah and will be reporting how much will be donated this year. It will be significantly less I am sure since it has become increasingly more difficult to keep all the balls in the air so to speak. Still, I think we will have a respectable amount to give in Hannah's memory.

Next year, I am working on revising my fundraising event. Yes, I am continuing to support Joining Hearts and Hands but I really need to find a more efficient way for me to do my creative part. I have plenty of time to think on this so no rush here.

I have many things planned for my summer break. I will be attending a glass conference in late July, taking a class with a master glass worker and, as always, prepping for my shows that start in August. Another plan for my summer is to continue my focus on my painting. It is a wonderfully free method of painting that I am currently doing and gives me  great joy. As of now, I do these paintings for myself. However, I am considering offering some of my work as prints and cards......who knows.

Here is my latest painting but still in process. The goal is to have it complete by the weekend!



Color, just like my beads, is a big part of all my creative endeavors. I still have work to do on this so check back to see how it turns out :)

Monday, June 17, 2013

Hearts for Hannah~ Batch #3 & #4

Here is Batch #3


Here is Batch #4


Please remember to post HERE as to which one you would like. This lets everyone know what is taken. You can scroll down to my first Hearts for Hannah post for directions if you are new to this. Thank you so much and thank you for being patient with me :)

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Update...

Hi Everyone. My work life has been keeping me mighty busy these days. The end of a school year is always crazy but this one is a bit more hectic than usual. I haven't forgotten about things here, just trying to swim to the surface for air! I'm expecting to be making hearts tomorrow so I can post late on Monday. Thanks for your patience!

Thursday, June 6, 2013

More....

Another batch of hearts will be available on Saturday! Thanks everyone for your support so far!

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Hearts for Hannah- Batch #2


Batch #2! Lovely florals....pinks, orange, blues and a little brown. Remember, leave a comment HERE to let me and everyone know which heart you would like.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Hearts Tomorrow...

Hearts will be posted tomorrow evening some time around 7:30-8:00. I have after work plans so posting will be a bit late.

Tomorrow's theme is: Floral.....There are some sweet one's sitting in the kiln! I can't wait to get them out in the morning. Hope you will stop back to see them tomorrow!!

Monday, June 3, 2013

Hearts for Hannah- Batch #1


Here is Batch #1 of my Hearts for Hannah. I was rushing around so the image isn't top notch but most hearts here read pretty true to color. The heart at "7:00" is a lovely denim looking blue with turquoise raised dots...lots of reflection in this image so you don't get a true sense of it.

Here is how it works:

:: Please comment HERE to let me know which one you would like. This way others can see who has claimed what heart.
:: Comments DON'T show until I read them....a feature on my blog that lets me preview comments before listing them.
:: Hearts are 25.00 each. Checks or cash only made payable to me. At the end of the fundraiser a large (hopefully) check is made out to Joining Hearts and Hands for the full amount collected.
:: I can NOT take special requests/orders. If you really, really want a particular heart you are welcomed to order one from me after the fundraiser.
:: I will post both on my blog and my facebook page when I will be posting a new batch of Hearts.
:: Remember- This is a month long fundraiser. Be patient. I believe that 99% of those who want a heart get one :)

A gentle reminder:

* I try to say this with the most care and gentleness, I can NOT accept request or orders during this fundraiser. This is a time consuming endeavor which I do after my regular work hours. Orders put a damper on my heart production and suck me dry of creativity.

* Please consider that I lovingly donate all my materials, time, skills and proceeds to this fundraiser. Please know that I would love to make you a heart (or something else) once the fundraiser is finished so please consider visiting my Etsy Shop or visiting me at my booth at a number of Summer festivals!

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Hearts for Hannah....

I've had a great start already to my month long fundraiser! I will be at the torch today working and will post available hearts tomorrow evening. Pre ordering has now ended and I will be focusing on hearts to post each day. Tomorrow evening I will also go over the how to's of getting a heart for those who are not yet familiar.

Namaste!

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Order Now!

I'm late in posting this but better late than never.....

This year I am offering the option of ordering Hearts for Hannah based on some past popular sellers. I am only offering a few styles for you to choose from based on ease and past interest. I will also continue my daily posts of hearts here on my blog ....they are sold first come, first gets the heart....its rather fun for me to see who wants what and all the eager emails that await me.

For those of you who may be new to the Hearts for Hannah fundraiser, please reference my Giving link on the bar above. All of the proceeds raised are donated to Joining Hearts and Hands in memory of Hannah Congdon.

Why do I do this?
I do this to support Hannah's mission and the memory of all the Fairport angels.
I do this to honor the families and to let them know that people care.
I do this because it was so deeply sad that I wanted to know something good could come from it.
I do this because it is my small way of helping others.
I do this because it reminds me that life is short. Be kind. Care for others. Give your time to someone or a cause in need.

Here are the hearts I will create by order:


The purple heart to the right can be done with a purple, green or red background.
The heart across from the purple heart can be done with a black, red or blue background. The outlined heart will be done in either black or white.
The yellow heart at the bottom can be done in a yellow, red, black or light blue background. Inner hearts will vary in color.
The floral heart at the top is done on a black background with multi colored flowers.

Please note that although the design concept will be the same, each will vary due to the handmade nature and color availability.

This one is available just because the 4th of July is so close :)


The green background heart to the left can be made in green, purple or red.
The light green heart at the top can be made in green or turquoise. Flowers will be random.

I hope you will order a few and wait and visit my blog to watch for new styles that will be available in June!
Comment here on my blog or send me an email with your order!



Sunday, May 26, 2013

Memorial Day Cookout


Doing a little cooking out later today to celebrate Memorial Day! The menu will include carrot dogs, hot & sour cucumber salad and Thai Tofu wraps! Here is the recipe......I love these just as much as carrot dogs!
Thai Tofu Lettuce Wraps1 small Thai pepper, minced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp. olive oil
3 Tbsp. soy sauce
1/4 cup water
Juice of 1 lime (plus more for garnish)
1 Tbsp. arrowroot powder or cornstarch
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 16-oz. pkg. firm tofu, drained and cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1 Tbsp. basil, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
8 iceberg lettuce leaves
  • Sauté the minced pepper and garlic in the olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat. Add the soy sauce, water, and lime juice, stirring until well combined. Stir in the cornstarch and simmer over low heat until the tofu is ready.
  • Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a nonstick 12-inch skillet.
  • Add the tofu and cook, stirring frequently (stir-frying), until heated through and browned on all sides, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add the sauce and chopped basil, then stir-fry for 1 minute. Transfer to a bowl.
  • Scoop a spoonful of tofu onto each lettuce leaf, top with basil, garnish with lime juice, if desired, and serve.
Makes 2 large or 4 small servings

Monday, May 13, 2013

Real Simple

This past weekend was a bit chilly for May and it caused me to spend more time than usual indoors. Friday night I had a small Spring Preview show and although the weather was yuckie, I had a number of visitors stop in to see my latest designs. My new work is simple. Beautiful lamp work paired with simple easy to wear designs. The bracelets were extremely popular as were the pendants and rings. I love making beads and jewelry and I want people to be able to afford to wear it. So simple is good.

Saturday I spent much of my day putting things away and cleaning. Its amazing how 2 people can clutter up a house real fast! Putting things in there place took so much time......so much time that I am still working on the cleaning part of the house cleaning duty. We always say we are going to be better at putting stuff away but I guess its harder than it looks for us.

One of my favorite things about cleaning (which I hate since it takes time away from what I really like to do) is the clean smell that fills the air. For over a year now I have gone green with my cleaning and make my own essential oil products. Everything from abrasive scrub to body wash to lip balm and allergy inhalers. So much more cost effective and none of that chemical concern. Here is a great sink scrub you can try:

Kitchen/Bathroom abrasive scrub
* 1 cup baking soda
* 1 tablespoon white vinegar
* 3 tablespoons castile soap
* 10-20 drops your favorite essential oil such as; lemon, peppermint, white pine, lavender, lime, ylang yang.

Mix together and store in a tub. Works great!

Well, enjoy the day!

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Beautiful Things

This is typically a Friday post but finding Beautiful Things in our life is really an always thing. Each day really is a gift. Sometimes things within our day can be challenging but rather than focus on the negative, see what happens when you begin to draw out the positive. Here are my 3 beautiful things for today
:: Morning walk. Its the time of day that is most quiet. The sunrise, birds chirping and just the quiet is such a wonderful thing.
:: House cleaning. Really I hate to waste time cleaning but once you get into it, cleaning is rather Zen. Total focus on cleaning the surface, smelling the scent of whatever materials your using and then the neat, uncluttered result. I've got a ways to go but boy its starting to clean up nice here!
:: Aromatherapy. Scent really is a source of memory for me. Pleasing scents are also very relaxing. Today I made house cleaning products with essential oils along with body wash and hand cleaner.
:: Spending time with my beloved dog, Winston. Winny, as we call him, is 98 in dog years and is definitely showing his age. He has a hard time with his back legs and sleeps a lot. He likes nothing better than to just be with me in the same room or just lay on my foot as I clean. I know his days are numbered and I am happy to spend as much time as I can with him doing what he loves....sunshine, naps and treats.

Enjoy your day Namaste!

Monday, May 6, 2013

Show Time ~ Day 6


On Sunday I worked for about 5 1/2 hours setting up a 4th and 5th grade art show for my students. I think its pretty cool......its at a local gallery. Students will feel what its like to be the artists of honor at their own gallery show. I'm very proud of them all! This photo shows just a sneak peak at what is on display.

The work that will be seen is based on 2 artist studies we recently completed. Romare Bearden and Dale Chihuly.....the 5th graders did a group project on Chihuly and created a chandelier using plastic....I must finish constructing it for them and it will be proudly placed in the front window.

My glass jewelry will be part of this show at the end of the week. On Friday evening I will have a display of my most current work. There will also be a chance to pre purchase a Heart for Hannah too.....hope a few of my local friends will come by!

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Solitude- Day#4

Outside of work, I've spent plenty of time alone. Peter, my husband, is working on his doctorate which means lots of study/writing time for him and lots of alone time at home for me. One would think that all this time at home might mean an impeccably kept house....but you would be wrong. I've taken advantage of this time to take classes and explore other creative interests.


 Recently I took a two day workshop with bead Diva, Heather Trimlett. It was a great experience! Sometimes you take a class to learn one thing but leave having learned something entirely different.....Her style is simple, clean and precise. What I REALLY learned (besides what was being taught) is to slow down.

Slowing down is not in my genetic make up nor is it what you necessarily need to do to prep for a show. That was my thinking anyways. This show season I am going to slow down and focus on presenting my best....not get hung up on quantity.

Interesting fact: Did you know that a number of bead/ jewelry makers hire others to make their beads? Now don't get crazy......I didn't say everyone or imply that anyone local is doing this......however, I discovered this fact (?) while doing a show.......I would get down on myself as to why my booth wasn't loaded with things (I mean I do have a regular full time job and all) and another vender clued me into this. I have no real idea if this is completely true but interesting to ponder....

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Downward Dog & Cobra~ Day #2




I've always loved yoga. In my youth I was very flexible and was doing yoga moves without knowing it. I'm no longer THAT flexible but I'm pretty good for a gal my age. Yoga is becoming a regular part of my week and I hope to make it a daily practice over the next few months.

I took an amazing painting class over the winter and the instructor was big into yoga. Along with painting techniques, she also included bits of her yoga practice. It was very inspiring. There is a relaxed, open feeling you get after doing an hour of yoga.....benefits your overall well being, strength and flexibility but also opens you up to creative possibilities.  I'm hooked. So much so that I'm thinking of getting my instructor certification......my husband just laughs. He tells me I do too much.

You might be thinking, "What in the world does this have to do with glass, beads or jewelry"?.....Its the calmness. The centeredness that I find useful to my creative endeavors. Be it painting or glass working yoga has relaxed me and centered my thinking. It loosens you up and makes you more ready for new ideas.....thats me anyways. I just love it.....Sadly, I'm missing my yoga class tonight due to prepping for the art show next week.....very focused on my students work and my work seems to be second fiddle for now.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Day 1~ Falling in Love Again

Yeap. Today is May 1st and I'm ready to begin my 30 day adventure into falling in love with blogging again. I just returned from work and am sitting down typing out my thoughts as they come. Stream of consciousness kinda.....edited down of course since I do jump topics frequently without any warning. As you've probably guessed, I did not plan ahead on this. What fun would that be.......

One thing I do every day is start with a 4 mile walk. Yes, every day rain or shine. Coffee in hand I'm out the door by 5:00am.



Most mornings I stop at this spot to take a picture of the sunrise. I started doing this in the fall so I have a nice series showing the change of season and the changing in lighting.


This morning I added another shot.....the water tower. I loved the way it was silhouetted against the rising sun and clouds.

I try to do something creative to begin my day.....photography is typically it. It makes me feel good and ready to tackle my day ahead.

Its a beautiful evening and I'm suppose to be going to my asian brush painting class but I'm being bad......I've decided to skip it and enjoy the sunshine instead! A little sun and then a little studio time!




Sunday, February 24, 2013

I'm Thinking Spring!


Colorful rings to welcome Spring!

So fun since you can change the topper!
Look for these in my Etsy shop soon!
My photographs haven't been the best lately....I'm blaming the grey skies outside...


Friday, February 22, 2013

Just Beachie


I remember when I first began making beads etching was the thing to do. 
This morning I was in an etching mood figuring I'd only etch a couple.



I decided I liked this "fuzzy" look to the glass.....
I like to call it Beachie...
so I did a few more...


And a few more. I like them.....I'd like to put some of these in my etsy shop.
Beads or Pendants??

Thursday, February 21, 2013


Sometimes inspiration is elusive. 
Sometimes the things you find inspirational are worn out.
Sometimes you need to look with fresh eyes and no expectations.
Sometimes a new view is what you need.
Art is a journey.

Refresh. Enjoy. Look in new directions. 
Words I've been living by this past year.
Inspiration renewed.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Smelling Spring

This week is February break and I'm off from work. My schedule and pace is my own. Yesterday I enjoyed a stroll thru my favorite floral shop, Arena's. I love going there during the winter to smell spring.....flowers, dirt, color and texture are in full bloom there........and of course I can't help but leave with something.


It was cold outside but the sun was shining brightly.......


Always something interesting to see & smell........


I love orchids. The succulents were beautiful too......


My day ended with a short session at the torch too. I made some buttons and will be placing them in my etsy shop later today.

Planning today's exploration: maybe the zoo, the gallery or our lovely conservatory to see more flowers. Who knows what the day will bring.......hope you enjoy yours!

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Come Paint with Me

Come fly, Come paint...........



: Paint an awesome Valentine for your sweetie.
: They will be so impressed with your talent.
: Don't worry. Its fun and easy!
: Art is fun
: ARt reduces stress
: There will be no mistakes, just Happy Accidents... I think Bob Ross said that?!
: Its the best way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
: Art is for cool people.
: Art adds years to your life.
: Art makes you beautiful.

Art making makes you fly...........come fly, come paint with me!

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Bead Cuisine of the Day

As you can clearly see, my studio needs to be cleaned up a bit. Now, I'm not complaining....I don't mind a mess but it might just be edging towards the REAL messy side right now. BUT, I really want to make beads.....So, yes, cleaning will wait!


My mini personal challenge lately has been to use up the glass rods I currently have in stock. I do have lots but like most of us, I tend to stick with certain colors while others rarely get used. Yesterday I tended to use Dirty Martini, Hephalump, Firecracker Red (I love that color) and Gelly Pink....Red is a go to color for me but I had to use it! Can't show you what I did yet....must clean first and I'm considering etching some.

Today, I'm not certain what colors will be on my menu. Whatever I have a lot of and can work in red with will probably win out.....I need to think Valentine's Day.


Wednesday night a teacher friend and I took a Hearty Winter Soup cooking class at the area culinary center. What a great time we had. It was her first time there but not her last!


Every station made something different and afterwards you could try them all. I've taken a number of classes there and have loved each one.

Today is book club and some more bead making! Hope you do something fun too :)

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Mobile Blogging!

Sitting at cam's pizza and writing this post to try the mobile version of blogger!



Now that I'm home.....I see that mobile blogging doesn't work great for photo's! Had to edit this to be a bit smaller. This picture was taken today in my "busy" a.k.a messy studio.


This too was taken today. I call it Death of a Heart.......it was one of those days.

Love Button


These are a few buttons I made yesterday that will soon become pins.....cleverly named Love Buttons :) 


A few hearts too.......what would Valentines Day be without hearts!?

The kiln is warming up and I'll be out in the studio today working on more things....a few off mandrel hearts, more love buttons and some other stuff....

We will be enjoying a weirdly warm winter day here today....close to 60 degrees! Nice but not getting to excited since it will be icy cold by weeks end!
Enjoy your day!