Bella Bead Jewelry~ Fun Jewelry 4 Fun People

Mehndi

2012-01-27T08:15:00.000-08:00

This period from January until about mid March, I'm all about enjoying some creative rejuvenation. Oh, I'm still creating beads & jewelry too but my pace is slower . Its now that I am free to be a creative explorer since the summer show schedule is in the distance...playing with materials I love other than glass and just experimenting is a great way to stir my muse. I love so many different types of art making that this time is really pure joy and inspiration. A great way to dream up new jewelry and bead ideas!

For Christmas my Aunt gave me The Spirit of Henna. Its a box that contains mehndi patterns, henna pens and a book of history and ideas. I'm home sick today and really am anchored to my bed but I still want to make something!! So I've decided to decorate my body....my hand and arm that is :)

I just love the beautiful patterns! Flowing designs and just one color.

Typically someone else does your henna.......I'm doing my own so I'm sure my designs won't be this spectacular.

I love paisley. Over the summer I created some fun paisley inspired buttons......I might revisit that idea after my mehndi focus today!

I'm sure I will feel wonderful after my henna tattoos are done. What will my husband think when he gets home?! What do you do to feel better when your home sick?

Thinking Spring

2012-01-22T07:19:00.000-08:00

It's no wonder that I'm thinking about spring. Our winter here in upstate NY so far has been very mild. AND I'm not complaining one bit. I'm born and raised here but do not like the winter all that much...I try my best to get involved with outdoor stuff in the winter and to really embrace the snow but really, I'd rather have it HOT.

The grocery store already has tulips and daffodils and Easter candy. Last weekend I was in the mall shopping and noticed that stores are even beginning to show off their spring clothing lines. I better get on board!

Pantone is the leader in color. From graphic art to fashion, Pantone is the place to forecast seasonal colors. Here is what they are saying:

I love the Tangerine and Cabaret....and the Bellflower too! Nice brights mixed with some soft Beachy colors like Cockatoo, Starfish and Margarita. Makes me think of Siesta Key Beach......I'm hoping to get their this April.

Hope this inspires you to think spring also. I'm sure we will be seeing these colors in spring fashion lines and home decor.

I'm Never Bored

2012-01-18T15:45:00.000-08:00

Truly. I am never bored. I think that is the great thing about being a creative person. You're always thinking, looking, experimenting, making........Tonight I'm fascinated by creating paper roses.

I'm making dozens of these and then will hot glue them to a wreath form.....or a cone form...or maybe a heart shaped box.....not sure yet.

Here is how you do it:

:: Cut a square of colored card stock. Trim it into a circle shape. Don't worry about being perfect. Cut a spiral.

:: Starting at the end, begin rolling paper tightly. Roll until you reach the center of the spiral....this is the bottom of the rose.

:: Hot glue to a wreath form or use as an embellishment to a card. So much you could do with them!!

Years ago I made these with students in art class but I got re-inspired with them from someone on Pinterest! Another addiction I now have :)

As you might have guessed, I'm thinking about Valentine's Day and making a few things to decorate our dining room. I love being festive! This weekend I plan on making dozens of Valentine cookies that will be decorated very fancy.....I'll be sure to post.....I'm bound to make one giant mess!

Captivated by Pinterest

2012-01-15T07:29:00.000-08:00

I know, I know......I'm probably the last to be part of the big Pinterest craze but I've finally arrived! For the last 2 weeks I've been pinning and repinning images of my favorite things creating my boards. Kind of addicting......and I don't really need something else pulling me away from things I need to do! But I do find it fun.

For those of you who know me, I am crazy for window displays. I think that these are one of the oldest marketing tools store owners have and they are so effective......but under utilized by many. A great window display...or store displays of any kind really........evoke feelings and really transport the viewer........right into your store ready to purchase! Anthropology stores have remarkable displays. They are colorful, creative and for the most part simple. Simple in concept that is. They will take one item and then go to the extreme with it. Just beautiful. So please go to my Pinterest boards and see what I like.....you will see lots of Anthropology displays!

Along with my pinterest interest, I've been busy Art Journaling. Later today I will hopefully post some things I'm doing on my Tutorial page......we'll see.

Beads

2012-01-03T03:11:00.000-08:00

These Valentine Beads will be up in my Etsy Shop later today.

I had planned on putting them in my shop yesterday but I was off doing other things.

My prices are always very reasonable.

I'll be doing more of these too. Its back to work this week and then our Holiday Party on Saturday. Sunday will be spent in the studio!

Happy New Year! Resolutions Anyone?

2012-01-01T12:37:00.000-08:00

Wow. Its the New Year again! I hope you all enjoyed your celebrating last night.....I spent time with family over a great dinner, conversation and watching the ball drop in Times Square on television. I love our traditions no matter how simple they are. Its the time spent with one another that is important.

I think its the age my sister and I are at that we realize the importance of family. Last night as the adults gathered to celebrate over dinner, my nieces and nephew began preparing for their night out on the town.......parties and friends..... this is what is important to them at this time in their life. I remember those days and have great memories. Last night I enjoyed watching my eldest niece get dressed and ready....she is just such a pretty girl....I was so happy that she let me do her make up for her. Years ago I was a make up artist and still love designing a face. I must say, she looked great! So off they went to their parties and friends and us mature family members ate, played games and laughed.

My first page of my new art journal.

I will be journaling everyday this month and posting what I've done.

So, resolutions....do you have any? The New Year just makes you think of making changes and I see nothing wrong with setting out to do better. As always, I'm keeping it simple:

Personal Life:
:: Be creative everyday. No matter how small, do something creative. I'm thinking of my Art Journaling.
:: Be focused. Whatever it is that is deserving of my attention, I will focus on that thing completely. Multitasking to a minimum. Being present.
:: Practice Kindness. Of course we all try to be kind most of the time right?! But I'm really thinking of those times when you don't want to be kind....maybe its a bad mood your having or maybe it means being more understanding of someone.
:: Be of service. I am a big believer of serving others. I don't do this as often as I would like but I do try and help and serve the needs of others when I can. This year I'd like to focus a bit more on this.

Business Life:
:: Take time to experiment.
:: Limit the number of shows I commit to.
:: Practice, practice, practice all those new techniques I've learned last year with the many classes I've taken.
:: Be better with my Etsy Shop!!

Nothing Fancy, Just Thursday

2011-12-29T06:48:00.000-08:00

My sister gave me this book for Christmas and I've thumbed through it at least a dozen times now. My Non was a seamstress and her back room had her sewing machine set up.....buttons, threads, scrap fabric...this is what I remember of her back room. At a young age I had an interest in learning to sew most likely because of her. I've sewn a number of things here and there over the years but never with the skill of my Non. One of the things on my "bucket" list is to make a quilt. Now, I've made simple quilts such as rag quilts and totally love them but I want to make a traditional quilt.....I'm not up to that challenge yet but the simple projects in this book will get me motivated in that direction.

Today I'm going to make pillow cases. Yes, these are very simple but these pillow cases are leading me into making a duvet cover for our bed.

Fabric scraps will be used on a canvas to create a background for a painting that is brewing. Today I will also work on my Art Journaling. I am challenging myself to Art Journal everyday in January.....good or bad, I will be journaling! Lets hope I can keep to my challenge :)

New Years Eve Thoughts from a Reformed Bad Girl

2011-12-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

In a few days we will all be ringing in the New Year. Resolutions, good eating and lots of drinking are a few traditional ways many of us chose to celebrate. Well in advance of your celebrating I want to remind everyone of the options that you have to possibly save your own life or the life of others. You know New Years Eve is coming so plan ahead by do the following:

:: If you live in an area that offers Tipsy Towing by AAA, they drive you and your car home for free on New Years Eve.

:: If you live in Rochester, we do not yet have Tipsy Towing so you can call Designated Drivers of Rochester.

:: If you've had to much to drink or think you've had too much...call a friend, call family or designate a driver at the start of your night.

:: You can always party but NOT drink. If you have ever been at an event where someone else is drunk and you're not, you've seen just how stupid drinking really is. Yes, it feels good (temporarily) and you feel carefree but you are most likely behaving like an idiot.

I remember how much fun I thought I was having while drunk and also remember the regret I had the next day. I don't often speak out about this but I've lost so many friends because of this and just want to remind people of choices they have.

Christmas

2011-12-26T06:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas is such a warm, wonderful time of year its hard to see it move on. Its at this time of year that people seem a little bit nicer to one another, people smile a little bit more often and forgive one another a little quicker. Wouldn't it be nice if we all had this Christmas spirit in our hearts for longer than just a day or a month.....wow, now that would be a gift.

I've had so many wonderful things go on this Holiday season....time spent with my sister, holiday presentations at school with my art students, a night out with my eldest niece, dinner with good friends, going to see the play A Christmas Carol on Christmas Eve with my husband, Christmas Eve dinner with family, cooking that dinner with my niece and then celebrating Christmas Day with family. Spending time with those you cherish is really the best gift of all.

I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday too. This week I'm off from work and will start my New Year organizing and getting ready for a big party we are having here..........always something to do right?!

Enjoy!

One Minute Writer- Color

2011-12-14T02:56:00.000-08:00

Since I've been in a blogging slump I figured I'd do some prompts to recharge myself. I visited the One Minute Writer blog and noted their prompt for the day ( this was Sundays prompt) was Color.........write a negative emotion a certain color gives you........hmmmmm. I really had to think. I decided to select a color(s) that were closely tied to me being in big trouble as a kid. I happen to love these colors too ....just not when this shirt was worn by my mother.

Blue and Green Striped Shirt
I love colors. Bright happy cheerful colors! So its funny that the two colors that I happen to love the most are also two colors that filled me with dread during my childhood. You see, my mother had this shirt....a sleeveless, v-neck, Navy blue and chartreuse striped shirt that was out to get me! No matter how well my day was going, if that shirt showed up on my mother, I knew I was going to be in some big trouble at some point in the day. This shirt really seemed to have power over my mother causing her to get really angry at ME. She could start the day just fine but once Ms. Sleeveless, V-Neck, Navy Blue and Chartreuse Striped Shirt was put on............the mood of the day began to grow dark. Years later when I as an adult I told my mother about that shirt.........I remembered trouble I got into because of that shirt and just how much I hated it. Was it the shirt or the pairing of colors??? I don't know All I can say is I hate that shirt colors and all!

Beautiful Things Today

2011-12-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Oh, this is Melissa, our music teacher....she has the best expressions and this one was snapped during our ornament making this afternoon.

Typically, Three Beautiful Things is written on Fridays but I feel like doing it a little early this week. Here are my Three:

:: When co-workers come together for crafty fun. I had a number of teachers and staff come down for a quickie Ornament Painting class after school. A great ending to the day.

:: Wet kisses from my two dogs. They simply love unconditionally and are always happy to see me. I love them so.
:: A great slice of cheese pizza! Its simple but its amazing how different each pizza place can make cheese pizza taste. Cam's is one of my most favorites...never disappointed.
:: Relaxing on the couch under a snuggly blanket. I rarely just sit but tonight it feels wonderful. I am going to enjoy every minute of it.

Holiday Spirit

2011-12-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

November was a very busy month with shows every weekend. December has been busy too but in a festive way. I've done fun holiday things with family and friends. I took a Holiday a arrangement making class with my sister at a local garden store and an Italian Holiday cooking class with my niece at our area culinary institute and met a good friend for dinner just the other night........ I'm looking forward to seeing A Christmas Carol on Christmas Eve with my sweetheart, our After the Holiday Open House party in January and the Ornament quickie class I'm doing at work this week for co-workers. Always a lot going on!

Along with all the Holiday fun, I've been slowly working on creating a Handmade Ornament tree for our home. Each year at our Holiday party I have guests paint ornaments as a gift that will hopefully remind them of a fun party at our home. I've created some different ornaments this year so my guests will have a choice of ornament they would like to make.

This year at our party I will offer ornaments decorated with Graffiti, scroll work, glitter, marbling, and paint & patterns. I have a few other examples to prepare but I think it will be a nice selection. I'm doing a quickie class at work for staff on Tuesday also........I thought it would be fun to get my crafty co-workers in the Holiday mood too.

Another artsy endeavor I'm taking is to once again focus on my Art Journaling. Last winter I really began to experiment in this area and I've continued here and there since then. I have a few new Art Journals waiting to be decorated so I'm contemplating doing a Page A Day starting in January. If I do a page a day for a year..... thats a hugh commitment......it would be a challenge........I'm seriously thinking about it. But I could also do A Page A Day for the month of January....that is more reasonable.......something I might be able to do.......not without a struggle however since I know I won't always be inspired by anything.

I've been happily enjoying the Holiday spirit by being involved with family and friends. I'm already thinking of the new year by planning on whats next this January. I hope you are enjoying all these days before the Holiday doing festive fun things with your family too. Time spent with family & friends is the best gift I could receive or give. We often don't give people in our lives enough of our Time......Time is what memories are made from......Christmas Eve and Christmas Day go by in a flash......I hope you will enjoy each day before the actual day arrives!

Small Business Saturday

2011-11-27T04:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Small Business Saturday and I totally shopped small businesses! They were local too which made me even more happy. The first place I shopped was this new to me business called F. Olivers. They create very fancy olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Plus, they give out recipe cards to go with the oils & vinegars you've purchased.......such a great idea. I purchased a pairing for my father, my sister and of course myself. Today I'm going to make Dirty Angel Food Cake using the dark chocolate vinegar & the chipolte olive oil I purchased. I know, it sounds odd and possibly not very good but I am confident it will be amazing.

If you happen to be in Rochester or Canandaigua you should definitely try out F. Olivers. A wonderfully different type of place and one that is a new favorite for me.

The other spot I shopped at yesterday was More Fire Glass Studio. The owner, Elizabeth Lyons, is an amazing glass artist and holds a holiday open house annually. I learned glass blowing from Elizabeth and I started my love of lampworking at her studio too. She has grown to be a dear friend. I was so thrilled to pick up one of her glass vases and then a pair of wicked cool earrings from Mahine Ratteson. Okay these "gifts" are for me but I did support small business and I shopped local.

Over the next few weeks I'll share with you the small businesses that I will be shopping at in hopes you too will shop small business, buy handmade, support local shops.

Etsy Update

2011-11-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

Its been a whirlwind month for me and I've just slowed down enough to update my shop just a little bit. For the past few weeks I've had a show to do each weekend and they all seem to have been 3 day shows. I don't know what I was thinking when I booked all these but thankfully I've made it through! My last show was on Black Friday and was just for one day. So today I had to begin the chore of house cleaning since it is in total neglect.....so far I've de-cluttered and am ready for the real cleaning to begin- tomorrow that is since I'm pooped.

An Etsy update was also on my To-Do list today. So I've done a few additions to my shop and will plan on more updates tomorrow too. Now that my schedule has lighted I am really going to try and post more in my shop before the holiday. I think I've been trying to do this each year and I get only a little better each time.

I love this necklace and will be making one for myself I love it so much. This is my Peace, Love, Happiness necklace, my theme for the holidays, and its available in my Etsy Shop now. I also have a few pairs of earrings there too. Tomorrow I should have some pendants and another necklace........more hearts will arrive soon too.

Peace, Love and Happiness

2011-11-07T11:11:00.000-08:00

My latest necklace.....Peace, Love and Happiness is my new "line" ....theme I am working with. These 3 words come from many sources. The sixties of course, a comment often written in notes or cards and what we all hope for. The day after Thanksgiving I am part of a show honoring Hannah Congdon and this was too a sentiment she would often say.

Here is another version I am doing. Stacking the sentiment. Bead artist Michelle Goldstein was the originator of the boxed heart (at least I believe so...sorry if I have the wrong creator) so I transformed the square a bit to use in my design.

I certainly hope I will have enough work to display at the 4 shows I will be doing in Novemeber!! I don't know what I was thinking when I booked all these. Well, people can always order things right :)

Boo!

2011-10-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! Going to watch a little halloween t.v. and hand out some candy! No beads tonight :)

Wonderings & Buttons

2011-10-30T08:44:00.000-07:00

Slowly I'm getting things ready for my many shows in November. There is always just so much going on.....but I wouldn't have it anyother way. My days have been filled with a variety of things and my torch sessions have been short but productive. Yesterday I worked on a few buttons and constructed a few pieces. Here are my latest button designs. I love paisley so I've done my own interpretation. I've also worked on a large shank style and a smaller version.

:: Wonder what buttons I'll make today? Rarely do I set out with intent rather I like to just go with what strikes me.

:: Dinner? Not sure what to make tonight. Hoping someone will solve this for me.

:: Love Halloween but not looking forward to it on a Monday night. Poor kids......can't be out late due to a school night.

:: Will I have time to just sit and read today? It would be nice to just relax and read and nap. That is a treasured bit of time that doesn't happen as often as it should.

:: Good grief. What happened to my routine of going to the gym. I honestly haven't felt the energy to do so. Maybe energy isn't a good word........maybe it should be time.

:: Wonder if the kids will come to art class wearing their costumes tomorrow. I hope so! Its amusing watching them work on our activities in costume.

:: My knitting projects are pulling at me too. That is one thing that I know will have to wait.

Have a great day everyone......let me know what you think of the buttons so far........making more today!

Etsy Update- Sugar Skulls

2011-10-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Just letting you know that I just placed 4 large sugar skull beads for sale in my Etsy Shop! Here is a necklace I just finished that shows how I like to use them...........wearing it now and love it!

Weekends

2011-10-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

Not the best image here but you can see what I did in Bronwen Heilman's class a few weekends ago. Simply loved this technique.....hope to do some now that class is done. As you can see I have 3 glass pieces that need to be put onto beads.........many steps to this process but fantastic results!

A few weekends ago Pete and I went to Niagra on the Lake for a one night getaway. We had a wonderful and relaxing time. Love this image of a sunrise.

We stayed at the Prince of Wales and these carriages were all over the main street.

Another view. This is on the side of our hotel. The first thing we did when we arrived was go on a Jetboat on the Niagra rapids! I was totally scared. Pete went last year and I was suppose to go but chickened out. Click on the link and see for yourself........it was awesome!

This was the sunrise when we left.....foggy and kinda spooky.

Bewitched

2011-10-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Tomatoe red hearts ready to be made into pins........or should I put some in my etsy shop??

Extra large Sugar Skull beads.......love these!! I have a few more in the kiln. These measure approximately 1 1/4 inches across and almost 1 1/2 inches tall. Making myself an awesome Days of the Dead necklace with one or two of these skullies......the rest will be in my etsy shop tomorrow.

Witch Hat necklace......Candy corn, bones, and other assorted halloweeny beads dangle beneath a fun witch hat.......necklace comes ready to wear! Find it in my etsy shop tomorrow.

Creating Balance

2011-10-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Its been a little bit since my last post, I know. The school year has started which means I'm back in the art room (yeah!!!), my last outdoor show took place a few weeks ago (a great show but thankful its done), I took an awesome glass class with Bronwen Heilman (freakin fantastic) and now I have to re balance my life. Weave in time for blogging (I love to blog), create a new workout schedule (hard with so many things taking up my time) and making sure I get down time.....this is very important to me!! I so need and enjoy time with no comittments or "have to's". Last weekend I took the entire two days and did NOTHING!! I haven't done that in a while and it felt wonderful.

Today is back to bead making. The kiln is warming and I'm shaking off a headache that I woke up with. My day started with an Art Meetup I hosted for students and parents. It was great........fun seeing car loads of families with donuts, coffee and kids ready to take part in a scavenger hunt I had planned.

Beads......Yes......I will be working on a few things in a bit but here is a small sample of what I've done recently:

A new bead ring! Love these interchangeable rings......I should have a bunch ready soon.

Bangles! Now I have a better selection of sizes! They sold well at my last show!

Abstract flat bracelets too! Love these........very comfy.

Building Creative Powers

2011-09-01T07:56:00.000-07:00

For the last few years I've been taking part if various e-courses to assist in building my creative powers ranging from painting to jewelry to journaling. The course that keeps drawing me back in is the Experimental ARt e-course with Amelia Critchlow. Click Here to register & to find out more about it.

I believe I've taken this course 4 or 5 times and each time I gain something new. Amelia is a wonderful nurturing guide on this journey and I highly recommend it to anyone......no matter your experience or level- there is something for you!

One of the things I enjoy most is that it is self paced yet Amelia gives weekly "homework" to keep us focused. Yes, I know what you might think.......life is busy...... but you never are made to feel guilty about missing something here or there......you are always able to go back and finish up whenever. Being that I've done this course a number of times, I can now decide which lessons to focus on. I've learned so much each time.

I think the best part about this course is that Amelia is dedicated to giving each and every one of her students positive feedback. If you chose, you can post your images to the Flickr group Amelia sets up and then she, as well as other class members, provide encouragement. Just wonderful!

I will be making periodic posts about my Experimental Art adventures so I hope you will join me on all this creative fun!

Good Morning Saturday!

2011-08-27T05:13:00.000-07:00

Right now I'm sitting in my most favorite spot in our whole house drinking coffee and reading. Its my sky chair on our newly enclosed porch! Its quiet for once and I'm just enjoying the sun, the sky, and the peace. I feel that today is going to be a great day. Don't you feel like that sometimes? There is no particular reason for it, you just feel today will be great. I've got a few little things planned but nothing to spectacular. Just living simple.

One reason I'm just so happy is that I'm reading the latest issue of Artful Blogging and feeling very connected to what some of the bloggers are talking about. When I get a magazine the first thing I do is go thru it pretty quickly just looking at pictures and big things that jump out at me. Then I go thru it again and focus in on articles of interest. Funny but the first article of interest was the first one by blogger Kelli Murray. Loved the images and art and then loved what she was saying. I can't tell you how important it is to really take the time to learn about someone....you make connections you'd never thought you'd make. Once I read about her in Artful Blogging I found similarities in ideas and thoughts. Thats something you just can't do by only looking....you have to be able to ask or read more about that person to feel connected.

Here are a few other reasons I'm feeling happy today:
:: Heading to the market for tomatoes, cucumbers and berries. Planning on doing a bit of canning in the days ahead. This always reminds me of Fall....a favorite season.
:: Taking some time to read my book club book, My Fair Lazy. Its hard for me to sit still but today I'm dedicating some time just for that.
:: Studio time. Before the school year starts I like to cram as much beadmaking in as possible. I have Clothesline coming up as well as some other events and I need plenty of product.
:: A nice long walk or bike ride with my husband. He has been plenty busy this summer and we really have had limited time together. Simple things are often the best.
:: A little knit time. Oh, I love to knit but I don't often make time for it. With all the other things I've got going on, knitting takes the last seat on the bus. Today I feel like knitting too......I have plenty of projects to work on.

Hope you have a wonderfully happy day too!

Summer Wrap Up

2011-08-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

Summer is coming to a close in just a few short weeks. Back to school. Back to work for me. The nice thing about going back to work is that I love my job teaching art! I don't get sad about the work, I get sad about giving up my life of leisure. Once the school year begins however, I feel like I'm back in the saddle & ready to roll.

Sonnenberg Gardens had their Arts at the Gardens show this past weekend and it was glorious as always. Saturday was beautiful...hot actually but I didn't mind a bit. Sunday was a mixed bag....gloomy and wet at times and nice and sunny at other times. This picture is when we arrived to set up...Peter's favorite thing (ha, ha, ha). The Sonnenberg show is one that I look forward to every year since the atmosphere, the staff and volunteers really are exceptional. All the vendors are awesome too. Of course, this show is extra special because we were married there 20 years ago almost on the date of the art show!

These are a few more of my rubber bangles that I've been making. Love them. However, I made my first batches using my hand & wrist as a guide. Makes sense right? Well, I never realized how small my hand was.......to me they look like an average size hand. Ah, but I was wrong. The first batch fits someone with a small knuckle to knuckle span which I've learned is not the average. To fit a bangle properly you need to measure knuckle to knuckle since this is where it needs to fit over. So, I've adjusted my measurements and now have a great sized bangle that I hope will fit many.......I hope to have a number of these for the Clothesline Festival in a few weeks!

Now that summer is almost over, I have to really think about all I want to cram in! I was thinking of doing some canning....haven't done that in a number of years! Always like pulling out fresh tomato sauce in the dead of winter....or jam...or chow chow! I'll need to talk with my friend who is a great cook to get ideas from her!

Saturday Morning at the Market & My Most Favorite Dog

2011-07-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

I love going to the market and purchasing locally grown vegetables. I totally believe in supporting local businesses and would rather eat fresh than frozen. The Rochester Public market is the largest in our area and a very good market.....I go there often and its great because its open in the winter. But..........my favorite is the Fairport Public Market! I think in part because I have this love for Fairport....kinda like Mayberry.....and the fact that its all local farmers & growers plus its smaller in scale. Plenty of vendors.......plenty of variety.........all with that sweet home town charm.

So after my morning walk I drove out the the Market and picked up only a few items.

Could not resist the bouquets of flowers. Picked up a bunch of Sunflowers (my favorites), a bunch of SnapDragons and some Zinneas. Flowers just have a way of making you feel good.

I also got a few tomatoes, a zucchini and some blueberries....I like eating handfuls as a snack. To top off my market stroll, I got my absolute favorite thing to eat (drum roll...................) A carrot dog!!

I attempt to get everyone to love these things just as much as I do. I tell everyone I know about them. This guy who sells them has probably done very well from all the word of mouth I give as well as from others. I love them so much that I now make them myself just about once or twice every few weeks. I do get plenty of eye rolls from men especially but once they give it a chance they learn that these are quite good. Here is my recipe that I figured out on my own (the original carrot dog guy wasn't giving up any of his clues to how to make them).......so simple

Carrot Dogs:
Large carrots- as many as you'd like to make
Cut carrot ends off and boil in water until tender (I'm guessing about 20 minutes)
Remove and marinate in Italian dressing- I use Parmesan Italian dressing- for either a few hours or overnight.
Grill just as you would a hot dog. You should get some nice brown areas
Grill your bun (I like whole wheat)
Put on the bun and add your favorite toppings. I love mustard and onions!!

I tried to get our lunch ladies at school to serve these but again.......the eye roll.

On to beads........I will be making some beads today of course. A few hearts but also some other items. I really need to get going on prepping for upcoming shows. Tomorrow I should be posting new items to my Etsy Shop as well.

My flowers are sure to influence some Art Journaling today too.

Studio Monday

2011-07-26T04:23:00.000-07:00

Yes my studio is messy. But this is how I work. Yesterday I made a few pendant beads and was experimenting a bit too. Show and tell will come later.

Really...its an organized mess. If I were to clean it up I don't think I'd be able to find things easily.

Love using murrini. When I have time or the interest I make it myself. Otherwise I purchase my murrini.

In between beads I played around in my Art Journal. Listing colors of some new watercolor crayons and pastels.

Lunch at the pizza shop and noticed the beautiful mural that is being worked on across the street at the floral shop. To bad no one was actually working on it at the time. Can't wait to see the finished result!

What was your Monday like?

The Heat is On!

2011-07-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

This past week has been very hot with one of the days being labeled "excessively HOT"...where I live we reached 104 degrees with horrible humidity! So, as you might guess, this has put the brakes on beadmaking! I did tough it out yesterday in the 92 degrees but it was only for a short time to get components made for a necklace order.

Since I have a hard time sitting still and not creating something, I've been devoting my time to painting and Art Journaling. One night I spent sometime with my friend Joanne and she had a group of us create large paintings that we transformed into books. A nice night of mess making. Pictured above is my large painting and as you can see, I love circles! This seems to be a theme I've been working with rather unconsciously in both my paintings and my beads.

One evening I hosted an Art Therapy Night where a few ladies came over to paint and make some pmc charms......it was fun.....Hot Fun being that it was a sultry evening!

On Wednesday mornings I host an Art Class for Kids. We have hours of fun painting and other sorts of art making...

My sister and I went to a Red Wings game one eveing and had a great time reminiscing when we worked at the ball park as teenagers. It was suppose to be a group of 6 of us but everyone bailed out so it was just a sister thing that night. Check out my picture of the horse made from baseball mits....anything can be used to make ARt!

Today I think I will continue on with some painting and also tough it out once again to make a few beads. I love the warm weather but the humidity is not fun....my hair is a complete crazy mass, I move like a snail and I don't feel like eating a thing......visualize that!

What do you do in the heat??

Trying New Things

2011-07-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

Its so much fun exploring new things. The summer gives me that time to do just that....I've been painting- working with plaster- Art Journaling- beading with seed beads (generally not my thing) and taking classes. Art journaling has been so relaxing. I'm not much for planning so the "happening" approach to working with my journal pages has really suited me. I'll have a picture next time of what I've done.

I just took a class with Barbara Becker Simon and learned how to create her amazing bangle bracelets. Everyone in the class used Bronze clay but me being the odd ball...I used PMC Pro. This pmc has less silver content (90% rather than .999% like the other silver pmc's) but fires to a stronger hardness so I'm told and able to withstand punishment that goes with wearing a bangle. I'm pretty happy with my result....a few people in class ended up with broken bracelets due to firing issues...so I'm really happy I actually have something I can wear.

This is the seed bead bracelet I made yesterday. Like I said-this typically isn't my thing but I really liked this bracelet. Apparently its all the rage right now and really simple to make. The part that took the longest was adding the little clearish seed beads just because of their size.......really a quick bracelet once you know what your doing. A very similar bracelet but with just one row (think just my green beads in the center as one row) appears in the Sundance cataloge for a pretty big price. The bracelet in Sundance does wrap around the wrist 3 times but its this same concept just long and narrow.

Hearts for Hannah- To Know Someone

2011-07-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

The check has been cut and we are just waiting to pass it onto Joining Hearts and Hands! Summer schedules can be hard to coordinate... but it should be very soon that we can personally present the check!

I wanted you all to know what a hugh success Hearts for Hannah has been. I am so thrilled that each year I have done Hearts for Hannah, the response has grown and grown. This year we made as much as we did the 2 previous years combined! It was so close to 2000.00...1800.00 to be exact! That means I made about 92 hearts!!!

Hannah's family is so appreciative of this event I hold each June to honor their daughter & sister. The Congdon family passed me this writing piece that Hannah did as a writing assignment Senior year. This speaks volumes as to the nature of Hannah and her wish for love & kindness. I thought you'd like to read it...permission to post this was given by the family...

About Me

by, Hannah Congdon

I like to smile, be loud and bubbly

But there is more to me than what you see

I am not just a cheerleader who’s really preppy.

I believe I am here to make a difference

To help those who need it the most.

To give them strength and comfort when it is needed.

I miss the times when I could sleep forever

And had no worries in the world.

I could play all day and just be me.

I fear the world I do not know

And what only time will tell.

I don’t like not knowing what happens next

Or what is in store for my future.

I love to love.

I think all the world needs is love

And for everyone to get along.

I don’t like war and hope for peace on Earth.

I hate when people don’t get along

Or fight over stupid reasons.

Life is too short to be caught up in drama.

I wish people would treat others with respect.

Listen when they are talking

And don’t talk while they are talking.

I like to be known as a cheerleader

But there is more to me than that.

I hope to someday make a difference in the world

So it will be a better place for everyone.

Peace, Love, Happiness.

I certainly hope that by reading this you feel wonderful about being part of Hearts for Hannah. This was Hannah's dream....to make a difference and that is what all of you are doing by purchasing a heart designed by me each June. Thank you.

Garden Art and Walkabouts

2011-07-10T04:03:00.000-07:00

I love garden art. After the warm weather months have ended, I like to bring a few of my outdoor items inside to enjoy. This fall we will have our new 3 season room to enjoy along with my pebble fountain pictured here.

Every morning I begin the day with a walk....a walkabout! Its peaceful and meditative. My husband has been joining me most mornings and I think he is really enjoying them too.

We live near a park so some of the times we will walk thru the park to see what we see. Here is a beautiful piece of driftwood that someone placed in this perfect clearing. Love the organic shape of it!

Onto Bead News: My latest pendants are what I call playful shapes. I have a few in my Etsy Shop right now that you can peek at. Just a pleasing shape with plenty of color and designs. I'm on my laptop sitting outside writing this post and I don't have my photos on here....please take a look. I love them and I sure hope you do too.

Second Saturday Open Studio

2011-07-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

What a fun day. It was a perfect weather day too...sun shining...not too hot...just beautiful. This gorgeous day was also my first Second Saturday Open Studio. I will be doing this most every second saturday of the month and will feature different things....maybe a "Quickie" class or "Bead Special" or whatever I dream up. Today I had people coming and going from 11:00- 2:00...never a dull moment.....the feature was a Quickie PMC class and I had many taking part in this bargin of a class. Just a great day to hang out and play.

Last night I made a few of these new pendants...I love organic shapes!

I also had more hearts but as you can guess.........they are gone :) I'm going to put a few of these in my etsy shop to see how they do. I like this one......actually there are a few I'd like to keep for myself but of course I won't

Please visit my Etsy Shop to see what I have...Thanks and have a wonderful weekend!

More Etsy Updating

2011-07-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

I have really been focused on my Etsy Shop updates this last week since I've done such a poor job of it prior. Today I will have the hearts shown below available along with some beads and buttons. Look for these items later today....around 4:00.

I'm on a butterfly theme at the moment....love them!

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Happy fourth everyone! For many of us, today is a day of parades, picnics and fireworks all in celebration of our nations independence! When I was growing up our Fourth of July weekend began with a weekend garage sale, trips up to the Town Hall for the festivities, parade watching on the fourth (I actually was in many of the parades for one thing or another) and then a family picnic. These are some of my fondest memories since we generally gathered at our home because of our big backyard and pool.

Our picnics had the typical foods but what was really special were the desserts my mother made. Yesterday when I was cooking for our picnic with the neighbors, I came across a recipe my mom had written out for me years ago called, Our Delight. I must have asked her for this recipe for a dessert contest I must have been in since the post script said, "I'm sure this will take first place". So, yesterday I made this dessert and it was a hit with everyone......including the neighbor who claimed to not be a dessert person!

Here is the recipe. I hope you'll try it out.......it was wonderful! I had it for breakfast this morning :)

Our Delight

Crust:

2 cups flour

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup butter- melted

Filling:

1 1/4 cups whipping cream

4 oz cream cheese- room temp.

1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar

2 3/3/4 oz boxes of instant vanilla pudding

21/4 cups milk

2 bananas - sliced

1 cup whipping cream

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup flaked coconut (I didn't use this since I forgot to get it when I was at the store)

For crust:

Preheat oven to 350

Combine flour, pecans and butter

Pat down into 9x13 baking dish & bake until light brown- 20-25 minutes

Let cool completely

For Filling:

Beat 11/4 cup cream with cream cheese and sugar until thoroughly blended (kinda like soft peaks)

Spread over cooled crust and chill

Mix pudding packets with milk until thickened.

Spread over cream cheese mixture & chill

Thinly slice banananas and arrange in a single layer over pudding

Whip more cream and spread over bananas ...sprinkle with coconut

Chill & serve!

Etsy Shop Update!- Day 3

2011-07-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

I have several more hearts to place in my shop today. I've included a patriotic heart that I just love.....a few rainbow hearts and some others. Although this is a holiday weekend I hope you'll try and visit my Etsy shop for a heart of 2 :)

I'm actually going to take today off from beadmaking to enjoy some picnicing with friends. I'll be back to work on the 4th for a little bit but today is just fun fun fun.........Oh ..my comma key is broken so I have to use ...

Etsy Shop Update!- Day 2

2011-07-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

Its always good to stick with something when your on a roll. I've been making hearts daily now for over a month and I just can't stop! So, with keeping my focus on updating my etsy shop, here are more hearts. This is a group shot of what will be in later this morning...visit my Etsy Shop shortly for these hearts.

I'll post more tomorrow but will be taking the 4th of July off. Fireworks, picnics and fun will be the order of the day come Monday.

Tomorrow I plan on getting back to my Sketchbook Sunday.....I will post hearts but will also be writing about my Sketching. Hope you'll check in with me tomorrow too.

Etsy Shop Update!

2011-07-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

My shop has not been a priority as of late but I am now dedicating some time to it! Since my Hearts for Hannah fundraiser is completed for this year, I will now be placing hearts in my Etsy Shop. Here are the hearts that are going up today......actually right after I make this post!

These hearts will remain the same low cost of $20.00 for the month of July and then go up slightly (still an awesome price) in August to $25.00. Hope you will pop over to my shop and grab a heart or 9 :) I will have more to post tomorrow along with some other things. Thanks so much and have a wonderful day!

THANK YOU!

2011-06-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

I can't say it enough.....Thank you so much for being part of my Hearts for Hannah fundraiser. You are all part of keeping the memory of Hannah and the other 4 angles alive in such a positive way. With the funds raised, Joining Hearts and Hands will continue the development of Hannah's Hope by building more classrooms and other needed necessities...please check out their site for information and newsletter. I hope you will remember Hearts for Hannah every June since this is my personal committement to her memory and JH&H's.

For those who missed out on grabbing a Hearts for Hannah, I will have hearts in my Etsy Shop starting tomorrow. For the month of July I will be keeping these hearts at the same low $20.00 price. Come August, they will then be $25.00.

I hope you will consider signing up to recieve my newsletter too! I will keep you up to date on shows that I will be part of, special offers and classes that I hold at my home based studio. You can find my newsletter sign up along the left side column here on my blog.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #13- All Gone!

2011-06-30T13:10:00.001-07:00

Hearts for Hannah Batch #13

2011-06-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

Here is the last batch for the Hearts for Hannah fundraiser. Thank you all for making this a hugh success! I like to imagine that Hannah is very happy with what these funds will do for the children in Kenya!

For those of you who missed the fundraiser but would like a heart, please check my Etsy Shop tomorrow. I will have several hearts waiting for you.

Hearts for Hannah Batch 12- All Gone!

2011-06-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

I have several hearts going up tomorrow and I've tried to repeat popular designs. Hope you will check back tomorrow. I will post promptly at 4:00 and do my best to have a nice bunch to pick from.

Thank you so much for all your support for this annual fundraiser.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #12

2011-06-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Batch 12 is ready. Tomorrow will be my last batch post for Hearts for Hannah. Its been an amazing month!

Hope there is something here for you! Tomorrow the last batch will go up around 4:00.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #11- All Gone!

2011-06-28T13:18:00.001-07:00

Please come back tomorrow....more hearts then!

Hearts for Hannah Batch #11

2011-06-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Okay. Here is the next batch! Hope you find something you like. Another batch will post tomorrow.

Batch #12 will post later tomorrow. Please check my blog or facebook page for time.

FYI- Hearts for Hannah Batch #11

2011-06-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

My next batch of hearts should post around 4:00 or so. Time is running out....I will only post 2 more batches after this one.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #10- All Gone

2011-06-27T12:32:00.001-07:00

Come back tomorrow :)

Hearts for Hannah Batch #10

2011-06-27T12:17:00.003-07:00

This one is a small batch since I had people stop over to pick up hearts and want to get more. Don't worry...more will be posted tomorrow!

Remember, to get one of these hearts you must either email me which one you want, post a comment here on my blog or on my facebook page. First come, first will get. I'll be working in my studio making more for the rest of the day!

Batch #9- 1 left

2011-06-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

As of this moment the only one left is the pink heart with orange heart center. More to come tomorrow!

Hearts for Hannah Batch #9

2011-06-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Here is Batch #9....all ready to go! Of course, more will come tomorrow. If you are new to this blog and are wondering about these hearts & how to get one, please scroll down to see how this all works. Its first come, first serve so you have to be quick.

This is the final week for the Hearts for Hannah. You will have until Thursday to claim a heart. My plan is to do this fundraiser every June until I just can't sell anymore hearts!

If you miss out on this fundraiser, I am always making hearts. I sell my work at the Memorial ARt Gallery, Ock Hee's Gallery, at local Festivals and I have an Etsy shop. Hearts are a main staple of what I do. Hope you will check back here often to see what I have for sale.......even after Hearts for Hannah has ended :)

Batch #8- Last one left

2011-06-25T06:22:00.001-07:00

The last heart available from this batch is the dark one with the ivory dots. The background color is actually a deep purple but is hard to read on this image. More coming tomorrow!

Hearts for Hannah Batch #8

2011-06-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

I'm posting this early since I will be focused on my trunk show for most of the day. I will be posting more hearts tomorrow too!

Hope you get a few of these :) We are close to the goal but now I'd like to exceed it!

Batch #7 has sold out!

2011-06-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

Just letting you know that Batch 7 has just sold out. Please come back tomorrow and I will have several more posted. I just know that my goal will be exceeded......if I stay on track like this. What a wonderful way to remember Hannah and benefit Joining Hearts and Hands! You are all proof that there is kindness in this world.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #7

2011-06-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

Here is Batch #7. I hope you see something that you need to have! Remember, post here on my blog OR email me the one or 7 that you want. It is first come, first serve. My blog comments do not post automatically. I have to review them first and then they post...just in case you wonder why you don't see your post. It does tell you that your post is awaiting approval but some people may not see this. So, here they are:

More will post tomorrow too! I am posting several hearts each day until the end of June!

Batch #7 & News Coverage too

2011-06-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

I've finally reached the end of the week which is the end of the school year for us teachers! My time is becoming my own and I will have plenty of time to get Hearts for Hannah Batches up DAILY until the end of the month. If I sell every heart, every day I will not only meet but exceed my goal!

Today was rather exciting for me! I was interviewed by a local T.V. station regarding Hearts for Hannah. Exciting but also scary....I'm not really comfortable in front of a camera so I'm not sure how it will come out. I'm told it should be on Sunday. Channel 10, another local news station, posted a write up on their website....all good stuff!

Well, Hearts for Hannah batch #7 will post tomorrow mid afternoon. I have several in the kiln now and I think they should be good ones!

Hearts for Hannah Batch #6

2011-06-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

Busy week. Sick dog, dance recital for my niece and preparing for my trunk show next week! YIKES....trying to utilize all my time well. So, here is the next batch...batch #6. The "real" batch number 6 never got posted since it sold out before I could even take pictures. Sweet.

In between preparing for my show this coming weekend, I will be making more hearts today. Batch #7 should get posted tomorrow evening around 6:00 or so. But, if you are a facebook user and have "liked" my facebook business page, you will be notified about an hour before I post them.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #5

2011-06-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

This is a small batch. Kinda tired yesterday so wasn't very productive. But, I like the new designs I've included. The rainbow and the abstract one I love. My picture is not the best here...3 have wings, 1 has bumps on the edge.

Remember: if don't know how to get one of these hearts for the bargin price of 20.00, please scroll down my blog to find the info. ALL proceeds are donated to Joining Hearts and Hands in memory of Hannah Congdon.

Hearts for Hannah Batch #4

2011-06-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! So happy to report that Hearts for Hannah is doing well so far. At this point all hearts have been spoken for! This delights me since I feel so strongly about supporting Joining Hearts and Hands AND honoring the memory of Hannah Congdon.

So, here are the current hearts that are available. If you are unsure of what to do next, please scroll down for instructions. Its first come, first get type of thing so I sure hope your timing is quick! I will post a few more tomorrow late in the day (I'm at work).

For the most part, these hearts have a front and back design. Hope you find something you like for yourself or for a gift graduate, birthday or even Christmas!

Hearts for Hannah Batch #3

2011-06-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

Here are the current selection of hearts available. If you are unsure of how to get one of these, please scroll down for further information. ALL proceeds go to Joining Hearts and Hands in memory of Hannah Congdon.

New Heart Post on Saturday!

2011-06-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

I think the Hearts for Hannah fundraiser is off to a great start! My next post will be on Saturday since I've been busy and work and tired once I get home. But don't worry, tomorrow night I plan on make a number of hearts just for you :)

Since I've had a lot of question of how to purchase these wonderful hearts, I'm going to remind everyone again.
1. Check my blog frequently. I post available hearts every few days. I make what I'm inspired to create and take into consideration what seems to be popular.
2. Leave a comment here on my blog indicating which heart or two that you want. You can also email me your choice at bella@lindasbellabeads.com. Who ever gets to me first, gets the heart.
3. If your local, we can arrange a time for you to come and pick up the heart. If your out of state, please send an additional 5.00 with your check to cover shipping.
4. ALL proceeds are donated to Joining Hearts and Hands in memory of Hannah. JH&H will receive their check the first week of July.

Its that simple! I certainly hope to be sending one or 10 to you!

More Hannah Hearts....

2011-06-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

Another batch to look over. Finally, right? I've been busy at school tye dying t-shirts with first graders, making rainbow cake with second graders and hosting a Parent ARt Day for kindergartners. Along with all that, I've been selling a few of these hearts at school also..

It's kind of hard to see the transparent wings on some of these hearts. I'm just an okay photographer :) Remember, post which one you would like (or email me)........bargin price of $20.00 each......and ALL proceeds go to Joining Hearts and Hands in memory of Hannah. Please consider one or 5. They make great graduation gifts, birthday gifts or simply a great gift that holds a great meaning.

First Batch of Hannah Hearts & Pins

2011-06-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

Its always a slow start for me with my Hannah Heart production. I've got a trunk show to prepare for and the end of school going on. Don't get me wrong, I love being busy but I felt it necessary to explain any slowness on my part.

Here is the first batch of hearts. Remember, email me or post a comment here indicating which one you want. First come, first served type of thing. Every other day or so I will post more so you will need to check in often.

Hearts are 20.00. A real bargin! All proceeds will be donated to Joining Hearts and Hands in Hannah's memory. Here are pins my second graders made to sell. Joining Hearts and Hands visited our school in February and students were shocked at the conditions students had to work in. There pins are all one of a kind and made by those little hands with love.

This image isn't very good but I really wanted to post them. They have a shiny surface that is the reason for the glare. Pins are 3.00 each. Same thing......all proceeds will go to JH&H's

What a Find!

2011-05-23T03:46:00.001-07:00

My mother was a wonderful woman who had so many amazing talents. She was a professional dancer in her time and had many statements that I will always remember but didn't have a clue about what they meant when I was younger.

Here is one of them and it applys to the statement below:

1. There is nothing new under the sun. (I think this was someone elses statement that she took)

Thanks to Lucinda Storm for posting this on her blog....yes, I asked if I could use it here too.

I truely believe that our "ideas" are not truely owned by us. We are constantly gathering information knowingly and unknowingly. I believe that copying, like a Xerox, is bad. But, picking ideas here and there and blending them with other ideas is natural.

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-05-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Not much of sketchbook update but I do have a few things to share. Really, I have been making beads but I've just been too darn busy to post! To prove that I have in fact been making stuff, I'm posting a few beads that will soon become part of a neck piece. All in preparation for my Trunk Show in late June.

Some colorful cones! They of course will each be part of a necklace. Thinking spring. Thinking flowers.

I adore hollows! I love rather organic, asymetrical patterns too. Reactive glass is so magical!

An upclose look at a few.

Adding silver elements to my glass work is such an exciting look to me. These will become bracelets but I just like the look of it all together. Could be a great necklace too.........maybe one will be in the works.

This doesn't have any glass to it sadly. However, I do love it! Kinda like a modern cowgirl look. Why not? I truely do love many things.

Well, enjoy the day....I'm off to work at the torch. I have plenty to do! Sure hope you will add a comment and tell me what your up to or what you think of my latest. Oh, and I'm planning on a give-away so stay tuned:)

Season of Festivals

2011-05-14T03:34:00.000-07:00

The festival season is being kicked off this weekend with our first festival of the summer, The Lilac Festival. It goes on for 2 weeks to celebrate our cities flower and today there is a parade at 11:00. Too bad the weather this weekend will be cool and wet. I will most likely go to it later today just to support all the artists who will be there rain or shine.

At the end of June I have my first show of this season at a gallery in Honeoye. Looking forward to it but I REALLY need to step up my pace. I have lots of pieces of things made but not much product put together. I truly believe that I work best under pressure since no matter what I try to put in place to schedule my work better, I go back to what must be comfortable.........working right up to deadline.

Today I plan on working at the torch. Along with the show, I have a my annual Hearts for Hannah coming up in June too. Yes, lots to do!

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-04-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! I think spring has finally arrived here in the Northeast. Yesterday the temperature was in the low 60's, the buds on the trees are ready to burst and my forsythia bushes are in bloom! Today the weather was just okay but I know the good stuff is right around the corner.

I constructed this pendant the other day and I'm showing it on Sketchbook Sunday since the idea originated in my sketchbook! A few weeks ago I had an idea for something like this and then began making components. I made a silver birdhouse, found a nice piece of drift wood, and made what I now call Lollipop headpins. To me, this really says "Spring"!

I guess I've really been on a "house" theme as of late. This is a small 6 x6 mixed media painting I've done and will be submitting to the 6x6 art exhibit. This too has origins in my sketchbook....my Art Journal book to be exact....and was a fun diversion to work on. I hope to make more 6 x6 paintings early this week...at least one more....before I deliver them to the gallery.

Well, I hope you all had an enjoyable Easter Sunday! Looking forward to the Royal Wedding on Friday and then the Kentucky Derby the first Saturday in May!!

This and That

2011-04-21T05:52:00.000-07:00

Although the weather has been very chilly and nothing at all like spring, I've had a wonderful spring break so far! The pace of my life is my own and I can flit from one thing to another as I please. Today I'm going to share some images of things I've been working on..........and my fluttering to this and that will be reflected!

This is my latest work in progress...I have much of it done but construction and the toggle await me to begin. This piece is a spin off of my Chihuly inspired necklaces. I like taking something I've done and re-interpreting it. I like to see the progression or evolution of work.

A mini Mother's Day brooch. This concept was not my idea. Sara Sally LaGrand began making these corsages and I thought I'd try my hand at it with my own spin. This one will belong to me since I'm sure I will have to fine tune my construction technique but I like it.

Here are some more of my Lollipop headpins. I used some in a pendant design yesterday and really like how they look. Want some?? Let me know and these will be up in my etsy shop!

It's Spring Break!

2011-04-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

The last several weeks have been a whirlwind! Budget cut worries at school, art events...at school, appointments! Now its our spring break and I can begin getting back on track. Whatever that is...life is always full and busy right?!

Along with bead making, I've been busy with some on line Art Journaling e-courses. A great way to entertain my muse. I believe that you have to be involved with other things to keep your creative voice in strong working order to keep your main way of expression flowing with new ideas......which for me is glass beads and jewelry. Journaling has also brought into focus other creative aspirations that I've not ever acted on. So, we will see where this ride takes me. I love the journey that my creative life brings me!

Art events at school have also taken up a lot of my time as of late. Planning, preparing and the actual happening all take time. Its not a problem since I love doing these events but it is my usual free time that gets impacted....and that means Bead Time! Anyhow, I just hosted a Family Art Night and it was a hugh success! My dear friend and fellow artist, Nancy Valle, came and demonstrated clay........what a great time everyone had!

Nancy is also a glass beadmaker and was the one who originally taught me. Such a warm and wonderful person. I visited her studio last week and had to purchase one of her ceramic sculptures!

Can't wait to have it displayed! It's a garden sculpture but I'm hanging mine in our living room.

Technology and Stuff

2011-04-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

My husband is a techie and always gets the latest in computers. BUT he just purchased a new MacBook Pro for me and I'm so thrilled! I can now take my show on the road and be one of those people who sit in Starbucks blogging, surfing and googling. This will also be a great way to work on report cards or create newsletters anywhere.....I love technology...most of the time. I'm also happy that I have a wonderful husband who keeps me up to date.

Yes, I've been making beads but my pace has been a bit relaxed. I have a trunk show coming up in late June at a gallery and need to pick up the pace soon. Since I'm working from my MacBook, I don't have any photographs loaded so pictures will need to wait.

Along with my bead making, I've been exploring other creative outlets. Art journaling has been a big one along with painting. Starting Monday I will be taking an e-course, Restore Your Soul, that is based on art journaling and writing. Anxious to start. I'm also participating in a photography project titled A Million Little Pictures. Photos will be touring the United States in a Photomobile in late June.......fun stuff that helps to keep my Art Muse entertained.

Whats keeping your muse inspired?

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-03-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

Seems like the only post I've been making the past two weeks has been this one. That will change this week, I promise. I've finished up some school art events along with assessments and I have a lit bit more time.

Earlier today I finished up this mixed media painting I started a few weeks back. It was fun working on it since I felt like one of the kids in my classroom.....just doing whatever strikes me. I think that is one of the things I like most about children's work......not overly thought out and spontaneous.

I chose to make a image of a house since so often children use this as part of their picture making. I really was using the house as a symbol of safety and warms...Its a small painting...I believe its 7x7. I was contemplating adding text but have held back for now. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

I feel a cold coming on by am going to make it out to the torch to make a few beads.
Have a great day!

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-03-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

This past week has been interesting to say the least....as many of you know, I'm an art teacher by day and have been teaching for 16 years. Our district is purposing significant cuts to art, music and library. I will still have a job but will travel between two buildings.....you have no idea what this really means. Six full time art teachers, 6 music and 6 librarians will be unemployed.

So, my sketchbook has suffered because I didn't give it time this week....

But when I did allocate the time, sketching was relaxing........ Today I am out in the studio making beads.....spring is my inspiration yet again.

I hold onto Hopefullness that those in charge will see the light.

Just imagine how gosh darn boring school is going to become for all your children.....the arts are vital for so many reasons. It is a place where being the best isn't the goal........ its really about self expression, exploration, experimentation, critical thinking..............okay, I'll get off my soap box :)

Whack Your Head Wednesday

2011-03-09T02:57:00.000-08:00

Find What's out of Whack

#34 Be critical and sense what's out of whack with the idea. Remember: you don't want to put a piece of garbage out in the world with your name on it. What won't the idea work? What's lacking? What doesn't feel right about the idea?

Studio Monday

2011-03-07T14:45:00.000-08:00

These few pictures are'nt the best since they were taken with my phone...but here is a look at my messy work bench. Yes, its messy but I do know where everything is....I love my studio haven. Been contemplating having my studio off site rather then at home. Hmmmm..... there are so many great reasons to have it at home I wonder why I'm thinking of moving off site? The one major plus for having an off site studio would be seeing/chatting with other artists in the building and First Friday events. I really have no problem focusing on my work so that would not be a reason to get an off site studio...........still don't know.......still wondering. Seems like there has been this big thing to get a studio. I have several friends who now have them away from home and I guess love it. Still weighing it out for myself to see if it really makes good sense. Not in any hurry since I have a wonderful studio at home base.

Another photo from my phone....making some great spring inspired beads.

And this photo is probably the worst of the 3.....but, here are my Lollipop Headpins.

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-03-06T12:14:00.000-08:00

Its hard to believe that a week has gone by and I haven't posted anything! Where does the time go? I made it back here today however, for my Sketchbook Sunday to share a page from my journal.

I enjoyed working sketchbook idea to bead so much that I thought I'd try it again. Remember, this is not my typical method but am starting to wonder why it isn't!

My painted rainbow and little bird in the corner show up in these beads........Still working on one of these beads and hope to be able to share the finished piece.

These are the back sides.....not totally crazy about them but oh, well. I think once I make them into something and show the side I like it might work.

I took a week long Art Journaling class online and will show my work here next week. I'll also show some journals done by others that I like.....this art journaling thing might be a keeper!

Sketchbook Sunday!

2011-02-27T08:41:00.000-08:00

As you may know, I've been doing a bit of Art Journaling. I journal write daily but my current efforts are to bring a more artistic flare to my writing. I really see Art Journaling as two distinct practices.....art and writing. I've focused mainly on the art end and have used my art to inspire my writing prompts.

To manage this addition to my currently hectic life, I'm going to really focus on the Art Journaling for a minimum of one day a week......Sundays. I'm sure there will be more 'cause I really like it, but I don't want to overwhelm myself.

Yesterday while drinking my morning coffee I started to sketch out ideas for beads. I typically don't do this and if I do, its usually on the back of a reciept or napkin or something like that. But yesterday I started with sketching out organic shapes that I had hoped to develop into beads....added a little watercolor and some thin decorative lines and ta dahhh! I really liked the process.

I couldn't stop there.....I took my sketchbook with me to the studio and created what I had drawn...

I kinda like this! I am typically a spontaneous bead maker where I just do what pops into my head. This planning out business could be a good thing for me....

This one is my favorite.

This is the other side. I like the others too but the lime green, although it didn't stand out when I was looking at it, seemed a bit seedie in the photographs.

Organic Style

2011-02-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

Playing around with rather abstract shapes. Organic.

The front and back are each different.

Not so organic but I like the rounded edges and the "not so fussy" shape.

I've kinda got a thing for houses....probably influenced by my students. Childlike drawing is awesome....to bad I'm a grown up and have to try extra hard to be like a kid.

These will be in my etsy shop today......

Whats rubber, silver and glass?

2011-02-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

Bangles! Love these bangles.

I like to wear them together. Make a nice sound as they move around on my wrist.

I might put them in my etsy shop later today.... Do you want one??

This toggle is in my shop now........hope someone will grab it:)

And this vintage key and glass bead.

6X6

2011-02-24T08:35:00.000-08:00

This year I plan on entering a number of art pieces to our local 6x6 art exhibit. This art exhibition is held yearly and is a fundraiser for Rochester Contemporary Gallery....but for some reason, I never do submit anything....procrastination I guess. Check out the link I've provided and who knows, you might like to join in too.

Yes, Beads!

2011-02-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

I didn't make many yesterday but I DO love how these came out!

The organic shape reminds me of butterfly wings....abstractly.

Now, what to do with these lovelies? I don't know but I'm going to make more :)

I sure hope someone is reading this........sometimes I feel like an island and I'm the only one on it...am I talking to myself again??!!

Art Journaling- Day 3

2011-02-22T07:45:00.000-08:00

Smile. This is my prompt for both the art and the writing today. I created a cartoon like character of myself and then left space to do some writing. The video that shows my process is posted on my facebook page....I'd love for you to leave a comment.......I know there are a few people doing this Art Journaling journey with me and I'd love to hear your thoughts.

So far I've really enjoyed the Art Journaling process. I was a bit intimidated with starting but now that I'm into Day 4 (I'm a day ahead of my posts) I am beginning to feel free-r in my approach. Tomorrows demonstration I think will show that.

Okay. I'm feeling a little guilty for not posting any jewelry/ bead work so I'm going to show a few things.....

I like enameling these days...........everyone is doing it :)

This is a bitty little lock I made.....awesome element for bracelets.

Art Journaling- Day 2

2011-02-21T03:43:00.000-08:00

On to day 2! On this page I'm using the circle as my springboard and making a mandala. Circles or wonderful color........you can see the colors I selected but certainly use the ones you are most attracted to. As you can see, I've titled this page, The Circle of Life. The text is a passage from Black Elk, a Native American speaking about life being like a circle.

To create this page I used:

1. watercolor crayons

2. Pitt pens

3. Acrylic paint

4. Aqua pen

5. Oil Sticks or oil pastels

Because Blogger hasn't been allowing me to upload video for some reason, I've posted the videos on my facebook page. Also, please become a member of our Art Journaling Boot Camp flickr group. You can post you work there during the week and afterwards. This flickr group will stay up even after the bootcamp has ended.

Art Journaling- Day 1

2011-02-20T05:51:00.000-08:00

Wow. The video part has taken much longer then I had anticipated but I DO have one to show. I have posted it on my facebook page and linked it here since Blogger was giving me a problem.... Thanks to my husband who helped me with the video and editing. He learns by reading, while I learn by doing.

The title to my first journal page is, The Alphabet of Life-

The picture below is my finished page. I'm actually doing 2 sketchbooks...one is my "practice" book and the other is the one I use for my video or photographs. The text for this page is based on a sign I have on a wall in my living room titled, Alphabet of Life. It has great affirmations for each letter. I've used these and then added my own personal text too.

Here are the supplies that I used to make this page....I used stamps for the lettering and also for embellishing the background.

Here is the link to the newly started, Art Journaling Boot Camp flickr group.

Art Journal Boot Camp~ Get Set!

2011-02-17T15:46:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone....not sure who all will be taking this Art Journal journey with me but I'm excited to start!! As I have stated, I journal daily (write) but I really want to take my journaling efforts to a more artsy level where my approach is creative first and then on the text....A shift in journaling for me. I can tell already that I will have many journals going at once to serve different purposes.....there are many types of journal approaches .........there is no wrong way here folks so don't get caught up in doing things the "right" way.

So, to be ready for Saturday morning, get yourself the following items:

1. A sketchbook. I really wanted to use my nice bound sketchbook but the paper is thin and really best suited for dry materials. So I am using a spiral bound mixed media sketchbook instead. I could use the nice one but my pages would soak thru and get wrinkled in what I expect to be some painterly processes.

2. Your favorite paints, markers, pens etc... I will do my best to list the products I have used on each page but always feel free to jump in and post what you've used or done.

3. Light tack masking tape. My first page will be an exploration in to Masking Tape so I figured you might want to get some ready.

Thats really it for now.....

I have a new video camera....much like a Flip but mine is called a Blogger. I would like to video tape myself working on these pages but might have resort to photographs occassionally. I'm going to try and be one day ahead too..............gosh, I sure hope I can pull this all off!

Tomorrow night I will set up a flickr group for anyone who wants to share their work. It will be an open, on going group where anyone can jump in at anytime.

Art Journaling Boot Camp- Feb. 19th thru Feb. 26th

2011-02-14T03:18:00.000-08:00

Next week I am off work for Presidents Week! I love time off.....who doesn't right?! During this week off I will be offering here on my blog an Art Journaling Boot Camp. I journal daily already but wish to make my efforts more "artsy". So, I thought I'd post my journey and invite all of you to come with me.....if you'd like. I will have an Art Journaling flickr group that you can post your work on too. Its open to everyone and anyone........so please spread the word.

I'll be doing a "preparation" post on Thursday, February 17th so you can be ready to go on Saturday! Who's in??

Not really NEW but IMPROVED!

2011-02-13T07:55:00.000-08:00

I have been doing "bead mosaics" for years. They have always sold well but I don't make them often since I rely on my "cast offs" to make them. As part of my New Years plan, I decided to focus my attention on my mosaics and to make stuff from them while my "cast off" supply was at a high point.....

I will be showing these at a Spring Trunch Show so I don't want to spoil the grand surprize ......you will just have to wait for that. But I will show you one of my boxes..

These boxes are great for storing any of your Bella Jewelry! They are for sure.......one of a kind! If you are interested, I will have this available in my etsy shop later this week. My prices are always reasonable.

last year

2011-02-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

Just playing around with a few images from: last year

3 beautiful Things

2011-02-04T03:26:00.000-08:00

1. Snow Days. I just had an unexpected day off from work due to the snow earlier this week and this time to myself was a beautiful thing. Peaceful. Restful. Creative. I moved at my own pace, relaxed with coffee, and created some wonderful mosaics if I do say so myself :)

2. Young artists working with paper mache. Nothing better then to watch 7 year olds slowly create a fantastic 3-D animal mask out of paper mache. The mess, the discoveries and the excitement...the best!

3. Gratitude. Being grateful and having peers grateful for what you do is always a beautiful thing. I recently had a second grade teacher recognize me at a staff meeting to compliment what I do. It was really much more but I won't get into it here.....it really put a smile on my face. The public acknowledgement of her gratitude in turn made me so very grateful for this recognition.

Whack Your Head Wednesday

2011-02-02T02:08:00.000-08:00

Think Like A Kid

# 17 A high school teacher drew a dot on the blackboard and asked the class what it was. "A chalk dot on the blackboard," was the only respone. "I'm surprised at you," the teacher said. "I did this exercise with a group of kindergartners and they thought of fifty different things it could be: a squashed bug, an owl's eye, a cow's head. They hand their imaginations in high gear." As Picasso put it, "Every child is an artist. The challenge is to remain an artist after you grow up." What would a six year old see if he were looking at your project?

February challenge- Experimental ART!

2011-01-31T02:15:00.000-08:00

Sometimes experimenting with an art form other than the one you spend much of your time with opens creative doors. I love glass and working with it but even so, it can become ho hum if I let it. So, this next challenge involves stepping outside your glass bead box (or whatever artistic outlet you have) and into something way different. Painting, weaving, watercolors, drawing....whatever. Just give something else a try other then glass, beads and jewelry. Oh, come on. If Dale Chihuly does it, so can you!

I'll be posting some of my experimental work at the end of February and I hope you will too.

Loosen up. Have fun. Get crazy....................then post your experiments on our flickr group.

Here is How to Enter:

1. Create a piece of art of two based on theme of the month....February 2011 theme is EXPERIMENTAL ART. This challenge is to encourage creative growth so don't make beads or jewelry.........experiment with something different!

2. Post your creation on our flickr group.

The purpose of this challenge is to find inspiration and to then inspire others by what you have made.

Broken, cracked, loved, unloved, test batch, beautiful and even ugly

2011-01-30T06:34:00.000-08:00

These are the characteristics of beads that make it into my misfit bead box. I just can't toss them away.....I have used these misfits to make some amazing "other than jewelry" objects and today I will be using some to make what I hope will be fantastic! I'll post my creation later in the week once finishing touches are put on :)

So, what do you do with all your misfit beads? When people come to visit my studio they love to paw around in this box to find treasures........ I have know idea what they do with these items but I'm happy that they find something to take home & be creative with.

2011 Resolutions

2011-01-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of a chandellier Peter took while in Turkey. He is an international speaker now and has been going on some fasinating trips.

2011 Resolutions
I'm a bit behind on this I know, but extra time to think about it is a good thing...right? So, here are my 3 simple things that I will add extra focus to for 2011;

Biz wise:

1. Sometimes the universe speaks to you and to me its been saying, "slow down and focus". So, this year I will be focusing my attention to working smarter rather than working as fast as I can. I want to do what is within reason to do instead of trying to do it all. Hard for me to do but I will give it a good try.

2. Inventory. I'm really going to work at stocking up. Rather than racing to get orders filled or booth inventory at a good level, I will be working on creating a body of work and then cataloging it too. This really goes into my first goal of working smarter.

3. A website re-do. This one might actually be hard since I have to rely on someone else to get things done. A new site is on the horizon however and the goal is to have it ready by summers end.

Family:

1. More family time is always a good thing. Lets see if we can get a few of those mini vacations planned that we didn't do last year.

Other Stuff:

1. Working with other mediums. I love to paint......so maybe I'll paint a little more.
2. Cooking. Did some of that last year and maybe I'll do a bit more this year.
3. Take lessons. I teach all day and I love it. But, its nice to be the student too so I plan on taking a few more classes in whatever strikes my fancy!

What Resolutions from 2010 Did You Keep?

2011-01-16T10:24:00.000-08:00

I was just going back through my 2010 posts to do a year in review here on my blog. What really caught my eye right off the bat was my 2010 list of resolutions. I quickly read through them and was happy to see that I really did stick to most of what I wanted to accomplish in 2010. Here is a quick re-cap;

1. I really did take a bunch of classes this year. Here is who I took lessons with; Trey Cornette, Brad Pearson, Melanie Mortel, Hadar Jacobson (pmc) and Kirsten R (putting photographs on beads)

2. I did really put more effort into my blogging and etsy shop.....still need to improve on the website. I'm actually thinking of putting a "buy now" button to see how that goes.......who knows.

3. My studio is still messy but it is in much better shape then at this time last year. Some things you just have to give into and a chaotic work space, for me, is one of them.

Under Family Things..

1. Nope. We really didn't do many mini vacations as we had planned. Conferences and jury duty kinda took care of that.

2. Yes, we took plenty of motorcycle rides and that was a blast!

Other stuff....

Yes! I finished up knitting projects but also began new ones that need finishing. We had more get togethers with friends as planned and I did take a few cooking classes with friends.

So, I feel that I did a great job at attempting to really attain all that I wanted in 2010. This new year still has me thinking but I hope to outline a 2011 plan soon!

Buttons

2011-01-10T02:39:00.000-08:00

I have a bunch of buttons in my etsy shop ready for sale. I love buttons :)

Murrini Making

2011-01-09T05:03:00.000-08:00

I've been infatuated lately with making murrini. I think its because of the classes I took last year where in many of them, we used murrini. This one is currently in my etsy shop.

I use any color combination that I think will work. I have a "working box" of rods that I chose my colors from and this box is over flowing with delicious colors. This too will be in my etsy shop as soon as I figure out a name for it :)

3 Beautiful Things

2011-01-07T03:24:00.000-08:00

1. I'm an early bird. I love getting up early even when I don't have to. It feels like I'm getting extra time in.
This view seemed pretty to me at the early hour of 5:30 the other morning.

2. Sometimes just simple words or phrases mean so much. Often the negetive statements really get your attention since they can be shocking or unexpected and often are plain melicious. But when you do get some kindness tossed your way, WOW......it is a moment to delight in. I have had numberous kind words said to me recently from both students and adults.......feels great. A beautiful thing.

3. Walking. I love to walk. It is a great meditation. I take long walks as often as I can. In the warmer months...it is daily. In winter........frequently. Sometimes the wind and cold is too much for me. But, I've been walking a lot lately and yes, its a beautiful thing.

Out with the Old. In with the New!

2010-12-31T09:03:00.000-08:00

My new highlighter pen.........this needs to be a bead shape! A New Year bead shape!

New Felt & Glass Button Brooch. Just a little more bead-dazzeling to do. Old idea. New twist using zippers!

Hope everyone has a great New Year's Eve and a wonderful New Year!

Ready for a New Year?

2010-12-28T09:26:00.000-08:00

On the upside. I feel like I have a head start on the New Year. My traditional closet clean out is done and everything is organized in there, my studio is getting a sorting thru and I'm beginning to ponder what my word for the year will be........yes, I pick one word that is my focus for the year ahead. It really helps me to frame my thinking and allows me to keep with one focus. I do have attentional problems and often flit from one thing to the next. I select one work for my jewelry biz and another for my art teaching each year and it really helps.

I might be in a creative slump. I have to admit, I feel a bit blah when it comes to navigating my direction for the year ahead with my jewelry. Last night over dinner I confessed to my husband that although I enjoy my bead/jewelry biz, things are beginning to feel a bit ho hum. There is nothing exciting me. Everybody seems to be doing such similar things that to me, the jewelry outlook seems a little lifeless. Yes, yes......color, everyone is doing it, bold.....yeap. lots out there doing that too. These were once hallmarks to my work and they now seem plain. overdone. common. ordinary. maybe even boring. Whats a girl to do??

So. Where do I go...what do I do with this ho hum feeling? My gut tells me to calm down and something is bound to stir my mojo....not to rush things. So, the big plan is- just KISS.......(keeping it simple stupid) for the time being. Not much I can do with my case of the blaahhs but just wait it out. I will be experimenting at the torch, hanging with other artist friends, painting, going to some favorite haunts and all that stuff. Looking to find something that lights my fire!

There is one thing I'm planning for February but you'll just have to stay tuned for that one. I'm focused then on staying loose, experimenting and lots of play time at the torch!

Creative Challenge

2010-12-27T09:18:00.000-08:00

The day before the holiday break I had students work on a creative challenge that took team work....They had to work in groups of 6....

and decorate one member to look like a Christmas tree! It was hilarious watching them work. It was interesting to see how some teams worked out the cooperation aspect of this task and how others didn't do so well at it....

First team to finish had to have members sit under the tree like presents. Lots of fun. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday too :)

Lost my Jingle

2010-12-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

Recently my sister and I went to a local garden centers Holiday Open House. What a great time we had! We each made our own wreath, decorated it with ribbons and other accents and then brought them home to hang. There was food and just loads of good cheer. Next week we are going to the culinary center for a cookie exchange. Love these festive outings!

I'm looking forward to a new year and having some time to regroup and to enjoy some unstructured time to "play". Nothing is more deadly then having to do something rather than wanting to do something. At least for me. I have been in the "have to do it" mode and really have felt the drag of it. I'm looking for something fresh and invigorating!

I love making beads and jewelry but feel I have lost my "jingle" as of late. It's kind of a creative lull I guess. I see sooooo many jewelers out there with terrific things and I also see lots of the same.......ho, hum stuff too. I feel that I must go into a mini winter hibernation to hopefully immerge with new ways of seeing. Sounds gloomy right? Hope not.....its just a little creative bordem that has set in.

A little holiday shopping, getting my nails done and then maybe a little baking. I've been loving my Nook and have read plenty of great books with it so far. Tonight I'll wrap gifts and work on some knitting. I've been sick for the last few days and am resting lots in between those things I "have to" do.

A Little T & A

2010-12-04T12:42:00.000-08:00

Not the best picture since it was taken with my phone but wanted to share anyways. When I first began making jewelry, I made these "goddess" bracelets. Kinda fun....big "T's" and a nice trunk too. I made them in the likeness of the Venus of Willendorf. Anyways, I've had a few people request goddess bracelets and goddess beads recently so I thought, why not. This one and another in earth tones goes to Sally.

Fa, la, la, la, la..........la,la,la,la

2010-11-29T16:29:00.000-08:00

Isn't he cute? At my last show, a little 10 year old came to my booth and eagarly told me that she sold things too on Etsy.......of course, I asked if she could show me and she quickly pulled out a few felted animals. So adorable.......I purchased this fun little owl. I think she was a bit surprised by my purchase but I just thought she was adorable....the owl too.

These are called my "Me So Pretty" buttons. I LOVE them. I wanted to keep them but they are at a local bead shop and for sale....Head over the Bead Breakout if you want them.

A display in process. I am the featured artist at Bead Breakout for the month of December and January. When the owner told me I had "this" wall, I had to think fast as to how I might "hang" my work. I've never hung my work and was a bit nervous about it since glass doesn't really like to be displayed this way but I really kinda like how its working. The display isn't real full right now since I just finished a 3 day show but I will be in to stock things up once I have things ready.

So..........Happy Holidays everyone! Buy handmade & buy local....gifts like this are always more unique and are American made!!!

Setting Up For the Show

2010-11-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

This weekend I will be at the Holiday Bazaar at the Rochester Museum and Science Center. Being at this show always puts me in the Holiday mood. Decorations, music and the thought that Thanksgiving is right around the corner....Its an indoor show too which makes set up really nice.

Well, I'm almost ready to go. I have a few items that need putting together and then I'll be off for the Friday evening start to this event. Hope to see you there :)