my little world

Rust Never Sleeps But I Do

2012-01-21T03:12:00.000-05:00

rusty heart earrings on Etsy

Rust never sleeps, but I do, except when my daughter decides to get in bed with me because she woke up early and is bored. For some reason she believes she is doing me a kindness by waking me first thing on a weekend morning. I'd rather sleep. I'd actually rather sleep then do just about anything when it is cold and gray. Even with better living through chemistry I still find winter turns me into a sloth. Or maybe I am really am a fancy species of bear meant to hibernate for months and come out when things start to turn green again. Or maybe I am actually not from this planet and where I come from we are not equipped to go through winter. I do not know. I would just rather be in bed under the blankets with a farting dog to keep me warm.

It's the end of January in Michigan which means things are going to feel forlorn for a few more months. The sun may occasionally come out to tease us. I think it does this to piss me off by reminding me of what I am missing. Haha very funny. Just because someone is the center of the universe it does not make them nice. Or maybe it's the clouds that are bitches and the sun is just minding its own business.

I could blame the clouds.

For the most part its cold and gray and damp. Cold and gray and lots of rust. So I try to find beauty in things that are not pretty. You have to do that to live through these winters.

That and lots of 3 buck chuck.

Good Riddence Rotten Rabbit!

2012-01-01T18:14:00.000-05:00

The first day of 2012 has been crazy windy outside. I half expect to see a cow blowing by the window. Or maybe in my hood a rat would be more likely.

But is all good. This wind is blowing away the last of the bad juju from 2011. There was a lot of bad juju to blow away. 2011 was the year of the rabbit. I find it hard to imagine a little bunny having such a nasty streak. But I suppose there must be very bad rabbits.

I will be the first to admit not everything that happened in 2011 was bad, as a matter of fact for every hard thing thrown my way I was able to find some goodness.

When people in my life chose drama over reason, it allowed me to see them for what they really were instead of what I wanted them to be. Seeing clearly is a gift, even when the picture isn't as petty as you'd like.

When my husband and I walked away from our 25 yr. involvement in a large holiday show, rather then go along with someone's deceitfulness and manipulation, we walked away from a large part of our yearly income without any plan B. But we stood together and hopefully made an impression on our 10 year old daughter that right thing to do isn't always the easy thing to do. And we found out that real friends have your back even when it's not the safest thing.

When I lost my beloved Buster after 13 years of being best friends, people reached out with so much kindness and sympathy that I knew I was not alone in my grief.

And everything that happened this year made me stronger and I hope wiser.

January 23 starts the Chinese year of the dragon. The dragon is sacred, and symbolizes strength, luck and new beginnings. That sounds pretty good to me.

Sunday Morning Cup of Coffee

2011-11-27T10:47:00.001-05:00

This morning I am using the same mug I used in my last Sunday morning post. Maybe its because the shape is familiar and comforting in my hands. These last few weeks I have been more then a little bit out of sorts.
A few weeks ago I lost my best friend, my studio assistant, my companion of 13 years, Buster.
He was smart and sassy and funny.
He was never far from my side as I created things, as I ate, as I slept.
I feel his absence deeply even with my two other dogs around me, as I sit at my desk and work, getting ready for Cyber Monday. It seems unreal that the world keeps turning without him by my side.

Sunday Morning Cup of Coffee

2011-11-06T14:07:00.000-05:00

This Sunday's coffee mug is by my friend Lavinia of Alma Pottery.

As you can see from this picture my bead table is full of projects. I have deadlines for the holidays and I have been trying to keep up. I should do another Desk Disaster Friday post. It's been a while.

This Holiday season is a little different for me then seasons past. I am no longer doing a big show that I was associated with for more then 20 years. They chose to be scoundrels, so I chose to leave the show.

I may be a hooligan, but never a scoundrel.

So his year I am filling galleries and will concentrate on website and etsy to get me through the season.

Change is good. Change is exciting. I used to be afraid of change in my life, but now I embrace it.

Even change that comes painfully and at a cost can bring you to new exciting possibilities.

I wonder what it feels like to be a caterpillar. Do they know what is in store for them, or are they taken by surprise? Do they embrace the change or do they fear and resent it? Do they even know that anything is happening?

Maybe they look forward to it like a kid looks forward to getting his drivers license? Is it a rite of passage? Do the other caterpillars throw a party?

Is the butterfly scared when it comes out from the cocoon, or is it excited to feel its wings?

I am rambling, but if I ever come back as a caterpillar I will blog about it.

Sunday Morning Coffee Cup

2011-10-23T12:38:00.000-04:00

Good Morning. I have decided to make some Sunday morning posts talking about my coffee cup. I know you are saying "why the fuck do I care about your coffee cup?" (Unless you don't swear like a sailor like I do) So let me 'splain.

I enjoy a good cup of coffee in the morning, which is a nice way to say 'addiction is a disease and I turn into a werewolf without it'. And more importantly, I have the most kick ass collection of mugs, and I don't have anything else to say. Ok I do, but when I say things like "there are no jobs in my uterus" some people are alienated and other people are confused because they think I might be hiring.

So let me tell you about my coffee mugs:

They are special and magical. They are hand made by real people called potters. The fact that they are handmade by people who took a lump of clay (which is like mud and comes from the earth, incase you didn't know) and used their own hands to transform and refine this lump into something of beauty and usefulness, endows this object with a kind energy and spirit that mass produced products objects cannot possess.

New Age Mumbo Jumbo crap, you say! But when you hold a handmade work it is a different experience then holding a mass produced object. I ain't making this shit up.

There is some kind of good juju in an object crafted with affection and commitment. This is something that most people in this world have forgotten to experience. They are disconnected from the objects they touch everyday which in turn disconnects them from their own vitality. That connection can set the mood for their entire day.That is why it is so important for people to continue to make things using their own hands. And for other people to experience that bliss through handmade things. It is a thing that connects people to their world and themselves.

So this morning I am drinking my coffee out of a mug by Ed Brownlee.

He is a very cool dude with awesome pottery. I am happy to say we have a few wonderful pieces of his work.

If you live in the south central Pennsylvania area, you can visit his studio and others on the weekend of Nov 5 and 6. it is a great chance to add something special and handmade to your life, or to gift someone else with a bit of good juju.

Art Bead Earring Swap

2011-10-05T01:06:00.002-04:00

I have to say I was truly blessed to have Lori Bowring Michaud as my swap partner. Along with her beautiful earrings she also sent a bit of herself and a very special place, Willard Beach, South Portland, ME.

Her uncle was a life guard there for 38 yrs. and her parents met and fell in love there. That makes me feel it's a very magical place and I want to go there.

The earrings she made have resin set in silver bezels, sea glass from the beach there, mother of pearl, apatite, and peridot.

They evoke the salty air and the colors of the ocean and beach and all the little treasures buried in the sand if you stop and look to find them.

Here are the rest of the participants in the earring swap:

Diana Ptaszynski http://www.suburbangirlstudio.com
Jenny Davies-Reazor  http://www.jdaviesreazor.com
Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp  http://www.skyejewels.blogspot.com
Lisa Petrillo  http://www.lucidmoonstudio.com
Patty Chaban Gasparino  http://www.mylifeunderthebus.typepad.com
Susan Kennedy  http://www.suebeads.blogspot.com
Shannon Chomanczuk  http://www.formysweetdaughter.blogspot.com
Cilla Watkins  http://www.tellyourgirlfriends.com
Diane Hawkey  http://www.dianehawkey.blogspot.com
Pam Ferrari http://www.ferrarioriginalsyahoocom.blogspot.com
Lori Bowring Michaud  http://www.artfullyornamental.blogspot.com
Stacey M. Curry  http://www.starhitchedwagon.blogspot.com
Linda Landig  http://www.lindasbeadblog.com
Norma Turvey  http://www.moonlitfantaseas.blogspot.com
Melinda Orr  http://www.orrtec.blogspot.com
Holly Westfall  http://www.silverrosedesigns.blogspot.com
Rosemarie Cowit  http://www.gemrosedesigns.blogspot.com
Staci L. Smith  http://www.stacilouise.blogspot.com
Sarah Elder  http://www.mysocalledjunkylife.blogspot.com

Beady Left Overs! Meatloaf Monday

2011-09-19T09:05:00.001-04:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, my fab partner Jen Judd sent enough beads to make a few projects. This one is really different from what I usually do, but I am very pleased by the way it turned out.
First there was this funky but beautiful amethyst colored crystal round flat faceted piece. It reminded me of all the cool vintage rhinestone pins I used to collect. Next there was the clasp Jen sent. It was so delicate and natural that I had to feature it as part of the focus. Next there were all the pearls in shades of plum and violet. They were the perfect adornment.
I made this a few times and took it apart as many, until the simplicity of it just presented itself.
I used a "silver silk" knitted copper strand & doubled it for the chain. Its about 18", light and sparkly.
I hope you enjoy this left over dish and have room for one more tomorrow.

The Soup is Ready!

2011-09-17T03:42:00.001-04:00

Taa daaa! Soup is ready and just in time for breakfast . In other words its 2 AM on reveal day & I am finished.

I didn't think I was going to get done at all. It has been one of those days. But I pushed through like a beady super hero.

I overcame the fact that my studio was disassembled this morning and is in random boxes all over my house. It's a long story involving a friend a table and a fire, but that's something I'll save for later. It was bad planning on my part, but things happen when they happen.

So without further ado, here is the soup!

I had the most splendid ingredients from my partner Jen Judd, so fresh and sweet.

First I separated the ingredients into 3 parts.

I saw 3 complete meals in this assortment.

The elegant and simple glass focal bead by Donna Millard just knocked my socks off. I was immediately excited by the possibilities. I picked the beads that best complimented it and began my plan.

Well, nothing ever goes as planned. Not for me anyway! I had hidden most of my beading wire and tools in one of the random boxes that was formally know as my studio.

While I panicked and started tearing through things in boxes I pulled out my recycled sari silk ribbon. Of course I had to stop and be distracted by its silky beauty and it occurred to me that this sari silk was just what the soup needed. So, plan B was born.

I loved the way the silk grounded the entire design and the gold shimmer pulled together the purples and greens of the beads. It's that organic feeling that I was looking for.

But what to do with the left overs?

Jen sent me such a generous assortment of beads that I was inspired to make 2 more projects.

Stay tuned for the next chapter, it might bead meatloaf monday or maybe bead tuna casserole tuesday.

I have two more projects up my sleeve and will reveal them in the week ahead.

So save room & don't fill up on sweets.

Please check put the other fabulous soups on these blogs here.

bon appetit!

stuff in your soup

2011-09-14T12:41:00.000-04:00

I am in a better mood so I will show you what my bead soup that Jen Judd sent me really looks like.

Its funny how you think you know what you want but you really don't always know whats good for you. The things that you want don't always stretch you or make you grow. Sometimes the stuff that lands in your head or in your soup looks weird but tastes delicious. (Really don't eat anything that has landed on your head, or in your soup. I can't be responsible.) I have learned that a lot lately.

But this is about my bead soup. Which is sort of about what you want and what you don't want? I was literally overwhelmed by the goodies Jen sent me. In particular the focal bead. It is fabulous. How could I not be inspired? And some of the other fabulous beads that went with it were like JACKPOT!~! I was excited the moment I saw them. Some of the beads however made me stop and think What the hell was I going to do with them. Half the beads were in my comfort zone, but half of them were not! It's the same feeling you get when you get half way finished with the easy part of a jigsaw puzzle and the pieces that are left sitting on the table just make your head spin.

But sometimes stepping back and looking away can do wonders. The other half of the puzzle showed itself when I wasn't expecting it. It all came together in my head. And now I think I am more excited by the beads that were the extra puzzle pieces. I can see how they fit. Now I just have to put it together.

The bead soup reveal is coming! Sept 17! oh crap, thats this Saturday. I better get busy!

letting go

2011-09-11T02:16:00.000-04:00

Look at this.

I know you are not as impressed by this as I am myself.

But thats OK. I am used to people generally not being as impressed with me as I am myself.

But I want to point out something. It's important and momentous. Yes, both of those big words. I got rid of things. I was even completely sober at the time.

There is, what is referred to in some homes and studios as, "Empty space". No shit.

You may be asking yourself "Why?" You may not even care. I am not fooling myself. I know that you are really not that in to me. But I will tell what happened. Its called "Letting go".

There comes a point in your life where you are weighed down with things you really don't need. Maybe you never really needed them, but you held on "just in case". This goes for some relationships too. Sometimes you realize how much freer you are without all those things.

Maybe you come to this conclusion on your own. Maybe you realize it after watching a hoarders marathon. Or maybe people and relationships that you had suddenly turn upside down and you have to face the fact that you really don't need them after all and you will feel free and strong when you see them sitting by the curb waiting for the trash man to come. You may even laugh when the pickers get there before the trash man and see what you have thrown out and they have a look on their face like WTF? Yep not even the pickers want it. They have no idea what it is and why you had it to begin with.

It turns out I will be sharing studio space with my husband again. He used to do a lot of his work at the local college, but things change and it becomes time to let go of things and situations that are dragging you down. Kick them to the curb. We are both letting go of shit we don't need. It feels freeing. I am almost giddy.

Magic Beads

2011-09-05T18:06:00.000-04:00

Andrew Thornton used my magic bead in his August Readers Challenge. I really like how the word "magic" inspired the designs.

I respect words and the power that they have and I embrace the idea that jewelry has the ability to transform the psyche of the wearer like Wonder Woman and her bracelets ready to explode into action.

While my beads don't actually blow people up with lasers, they inspire people to make wonderful things and that is just as cool.

Check it out!

Bead Soup & other Bizniz

2011-08-29T06:12:00.005-04:00

This is my pretty soup, but you can't see it yet because I'm mean.

A week ago I came home from the Philly bead show tired and wearing my cranky pants. While I was away my bead soup arrived. It was waiting for me. It pulled my cranky pants right off. I admit a cold glass of pinot grigio had already unzipped my cranky pants- but opening this lovely box of beads made them drop right to the floor.

I should mention who my soup partner is, her name is Jen Judd Velasquez. If you don't know of her you should definitely check out her work. She is very talented, and she is also in the Air Force which makes her extra cool. I am very excited to start stirring my soup.

Speaking of the Philly bead show, I was overwhelmed by all the wonderful friendships that were enriched there and the new ones that were started up from scratch. There are few things that make me happier then beads and beadie friends.

News for August

2011-08-01T19:06:00.005-04:00

I will be at the Bead Fest in Philly in a couple of weeks. Pleaser take note of the NEW LOCATION.

I promise I will be in a better mood then I was in Ann Arbor. I realize I have probably scared many potential customers away with my last post. I blame the heat. Seriously it was like "this is your brain on drugs" but the egg was sizzling from the heat, not from any drugs. I probably wouldn't have been so cross if I had been high.

I would be all "dude my brain is melting and I see pretty colors everywhere"

Also I have signed up for the fabulous Bead Soup Blog Party again. This is hosted by the super talented and kind Lori Anderson.

I have done it twice and had a wonderful experience both times. I can't wait to find out who my partner is this time around.

And I don't know if this is a secret or not- but I'll spill a little bit of the beans. The fabulous and handsome Andrew Thornton is going to be using my beads this month in a special thingie.

You will have to read his blog to find out more when he is ready to tell all.

Yes, it's my brain and yes, I know it's melting

2011-07-22T17:58:00.006-04:00

Ok its been like 100 degrees here, and when I say like 100, I mean its like 100 with a heat index of hell.

It started out hot and miserable during my set up. It was so hot and miserable my misery made the news . Seriously.

I am trying to remember to smile. Its hot and I am past cranky. I have to explain the concept of "beads" to every other person who comes in to my booth.

Bead: –noun

a small, usually round object of glass, wood, stone, or the like with a hole through it, often strung

with others of its kind in necklaces, rosaries, etc.

Yes, Yes, I make all this. They are beads.

People at art fairs often don't even know why they are there themselves, unlike bead shows where you can presume they are there because of a knowledge of and an interest in beads. Yes I actually did have to explain to a woman "how it worked", not once, but about a dozen times. Each time she held a bead in her hand it was like a mystery. "So, how would this one work?"

"Ummmm pretty much like the last 6 you asked about. Its has a hole, you put a string through it"

God is punishing me for being mean.

I am ready to shout "NOTHEYARENOTFUCKINGPAINTEDROCKS" but I refrain. It is too hot to shout. I croak it under my breath as they walk out of the booth.

I am almost thankful that the crowds are small, as my patience is growing smaller with every rise of the thermometer. Parts of my anatomy are surprising me with their sweating proficiency. Who knew?

My charming assistant.

I take comfort knowing that there is only 2 more days left. I may have to hurt someone if I stay in this heat any longer.

OMG time to make some art shit

2011-07-12T01:26:00.004-04:00

This morning the realization hit me that the Ann Arbor Summer is just a week away.

I am still finishing up on my Bead and Button orders and I haven't really thought about making more work for Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair until NOW.

I have some pieces started that I can complete, but other then that I need new work.

I am slightly panicked tonight. OK a little more then slightly panicked. I can't find my wine opener thingie which has added fuel to the panic fire. (You didn't know I was fancy enough to drink wine with actual corks, did you?)

Deadlines are funny things. I hate them yet at the same time I wonder if I would ever finish anything without them. My creative urges move at their own pace, sort of like a lazy cat that might leap up and chase a dust fairy that only it can see at a moments notice.

Its times like these when I really a personal assistant to keep me on track by doing all the stupid things life requires like banking, organizing, cooking, cleaning, feeding the dogs, doing the laundry, etc. etc..... mmmm come to think of it I really need a wife. Would anyone like to marry me? I'm sure my husband wouldn't mind, and don't worry you don't have to participate in a three-some- or a two-some or even a one-some. You will be too tired for sex. I totally understand.

If you'd like to meet me before committing to marriage, you can come see me at the summer fair. I'll be in booth 194 on Main St, in front of Palios Restaurant

If you bring me an iced coffee I might even let you get to first base.

The Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair

July 20 - 23, 2011

Wednesday - Friday, 10 am - 9 pm

Saturday, 10 am - 6pm

I exist as I am, that is enough

2011-06-23T15:12:00.007-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about Walt Whitman lately. It's my birthday this weekend,

and it's a "big" one, if one can be bigger then the next in more then just a numerical sense.

I suppose this has been as good a time as any to stop and ponder things, but besides this

let me back track a little here, besides my momentous birthday, this month has been filled with drama courtesy of my female siblings, so much drama in fact the only things missing were footlights, fake blood and straight guys in tights. (OK, I added straight guys in tights cause I'd like that, but you get the picture), and this was all on top of the Bead and Button Show which no matter how much fun I have it is a big energy suck preparing for, being at and coming down from it. So I have been pretty much feeling threadbare and fragmented or the last few weeks.

At this point in my life I have figured out a few things;

1: I am not going to please everyone. I am not motivated by other people opinions since I always seem to piss them off anyway You cannot be an artist by pleasing other people

2: At some point in your life you have to own your problems, fix them, move on and shut up.

3: Your friends will have your back

4: If you can't find beauty in dirt, then you will never see the real beauty in flowers. Anyway, back to Walt Whitman. Like I said I have been thinking about him and this bit from Leaves of Grass, in particular. I think it sums up everything beautifully.

I exist as I am, that is enough.

I exist as I am, that is enough

If no other world be aware I sit content

And if each and all be aware I sit content

One world is aware, and by far the largest to me,

And that is myself.

And whether I come to my own today or in ten thousand or ten million years

I can cheerfully take it now, or with equal cheerfulness,

I can wait

Walt Whitman

Leaves of Grass

happy birthday to me

Bead and Button and Bedlum

2011-06-05T02:29:00.006-04:00

Trying to figure out my 8 ft bead display in my 12 ft living room. (little dog not included)

OMG! I only have 3 days before I leave for Bead and Button. Of course I am nowhere near ready.

I lived with my husband for 13 years before we ever got married because I am so bad at planning things. I was lucky enough to have friends that were would-be wedding planners and they asked us if they could please plan a wedding for us, and all we had to do is show up. Well that worked for me. Unfortunately, I don't have friends that are would-be bead show planners. I have to figure all this out myself. It could take me 13 years to plan for this, but I have a deadline and I have to show up if I am in order or not.

First there is display.You want to look good, have a nice set-up and differentiate yourself from the other 9,367 vendors so that when zombie eyed bead junkies decide to go back and find your booth they can have something to remember you by. Yes people do go around asking things like "do you know where the person is that has those beads, you know the round ones that are sort of squarish with dots?'' After an afternoon of looking at bead after bead people do become disoriented and dislocated. (This is your mind on beads. Any questions?)

Then there is your stock. What to make, how many of each and in what colors and assortments.

These are big decisions along with what to wear, what to pack and what kind of wine to bring.

My house has been turned upside down as I scramble to finish everything. It looks like an episode of hoarders, but with real cool beads everywhere. I can imagine them sending in a team with shovels and masks asking me, is this bead worth keeping? Luckily I know where my 3 dogs and my daughter are and they have not been buried in the rubble, but its a good thing I have to pack up soon before they can be mummified in the wreckage.

By the way, I'll be in booth 1228, If you are at the show place stop by and say hello. I'll be the disheveled woman with the cool beads.

TaaaaaaaaDaaaaaaaaa! or how I conquered the pink!

2011-05-25T15:27:00.003-04:00

well here it is-

I actually could live with this. It makes the pink not so scary!

please see the rest of the do-overs on this blog hop.

http://site.jkdjewelry.com/blog

Sally
Dagi
Lisa
Christine
Erin
Leslie
Shannon
Niky
Diane
Barbe
Elisabeth
Lori
Linda
Pam
Patty
Nancy
Kim
Marci
Charlene

do over challenge

2011-05-22T11:27:00.005-04:00

Last month I got a strange package in the mail. I get small packages delivered to my home all the time, things I buy for beading, other supplies, etc., so when I opened this package I don't remember what I was expecting, but it wasn't this PINK and (I'm sorry Jeannie) rather hideous necklace and earrings set.

I was perplexed and slightly flummoxed. ( I have been waiting for a chance to use that word.)

I was thinking this was a gift from some strange beady internet stalker and then I got the brilliant idea to read the note in the envelope. Yes! that was a real stroke of brilliance on my part.

It had slipped my mind that I was participating in THE DO-OVER CHALLENGE

Well I can say this necklace real needed a d0 over- but WHAT to do?

It was sooooooo PINK. Not a lot to work with. Not my color scheme, not my style at all.

I quickly put it back in the envelope and refused to think about it until this week.

Well they call it a challenge for a reason.

But now my camera is acting funky & I can't get my photos off it this morning.

My husband will be home later tonight with the other camera & I will have to wait till then to reveal my Do-Over creation. So tonight when you are watching Celebrity Apprentice and waiting for when the Donald provides the birth certificate for the yellow thing on his head - remember to check back here & see what I came up with- technology willing-

Time flies when your head explodes

2011-05-04T21:05:00.003-04:00

Its been a month since my last post. I have been busy. Darting around seemingly in circles and sometimes crashing , sort of like a balloon when you let the air out, (except with out the loud fart noise.)

Its spring and along with allergies, all the shows are starting to pop in place on my calendar.

I have been trying to figure out new display for Bead and Button, fill orders, stock my easy and website, and not doing a very effective job of any of it.

It didn't use to be so hard, back in the day before I was a mom. Now I need to save all my useful braincells to raise a tween child. Any left over braincells go to managing my other tasks.

I really need a personal assistant, or a housekeeper, or a nanny or a chef or something to help me manage my life better, cause I am doing a fairly messy job of it on my own.

I don't know, maybe I just need more coffee. Yeah, thats the ticket. & No, those are not supercool beads, they are Easter eggs colored with onion skin and leaves from the garden. OK, I did think about stringing them up, but my daughter wanted egg salad for lunch.

Rainy Days and Mondays

2011-04-07T00:01:00.006-04:00

This is how my week started, a clusterfuck.

Monday morning I lifted the kiln lid only to find one of the support posts toppled during the firing and all my lovely little rows of beads collapsed onto each other and fused into a useless wreckage. Oh happy day.

I remind myself it could be worse. No one died and it's only clay. I only lost 1/3 of the kiln load. It could be worse. I remind myself that if this is the worst thing that happens to me today I will consider myself lucky.

It's really not that big of deal, but it does create a domino effect. These beads were for an order that was to be shipped Monday afternoon. They had to be redone, bisque fired, glazed and fired again, which takes time and makes me push everything else back a few days.

This is the story of my life- a few days behind on everything. No matter how carefully I plan I end up playing catch up with my deadlines.

I will try to look on the bright side. Since this is now a completely useless lump, I can call it ART and I can wear a cute little black beret. I like hats and nobody expects an artist to be on time.

Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiits SOUP TIME!

2011-02-25T23:01:00.007-05:00

Here are the wonderful ingredients I received from my Soup Sister Amanda Cargill Austin.

When I opened the package, which was beautiful in itself, I was mesmerized by the colors.

Dreamy blues, frosty greens and shades in between. I automatically thought of oceans and shores and all the bits of life and things that inhabit that space.

I knew I wanted to do something with an organic feel. And then I put the beads on my desk and promtly lost them in the rubble.

Early this week I realized I had better get cracking as Soup Time was fast approaching. My first task was to locate the beads.

I rummaged around until I uncovered them & realized I had some killer pearls that had to go with my soup ingredients.(no, they actually don't really kill anything but damn they are cool).

But wait! There's more! I have seed beads up the wazzoo. And I found several hanks of various sizes and colors that were destined to join the soup. Along with these elements I gathered assorted bits and pieces thay were laying around in the wreckage that called to me including a lovely Czech glass shell bead, one of my cermic padlocks and some of my faceted spacer beads.

As I piled them altogether I fell in love with the chaos and unstructured random look of all those beautiful elements.

So that was it. That was my soup. I impressed myself with my aptitude for artiness. HA! My triumph was short lived as it occurred to me I had no idea how I was going to hold it all together. It happens all the time. I excite myself with my genius & then reality pisses all over it.

Now the challenge was how to construct something unconstructed.

I found a roll of sturdy annealed steel wire and made a simple crescent frame.

I used wire to add all the elements, weaving in and out and filling the spaces as I went along.

I am quite happy with the end result- especially for not having a real plan in my head. (And I did it mostly in bed with 3 farty dogs and a bucket of 12 hr Cold relief)

It ties on with a sea-foamy green silk ribbon.

I hope you enjoy the Bead Soup blog hop and check out all the other dishes.

& Thank you Lori for hosting this & Amanda for sending such yummy soup starter. I cannot wait to see what you have done with the things I sent you.

XXOO

LOOK AT ALL THIS SOUP!:

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things

2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life

3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane

4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio

5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations

6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs

7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things

8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe

9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto

10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio

11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas

12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts

13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place

14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings

15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita

16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails

17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found

18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs

19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs

20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats

21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs

22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim

23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu

24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads

25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air

26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio

27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads

28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter

29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts

30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul

31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium

32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus

33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble

34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design

35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle

36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs

37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works

38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights

39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire

40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio

41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's

42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions

43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya

44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations

45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles

46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig

47. Amanda Davie, Articulations

48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady

49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux

50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton

51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks

52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles

53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde

54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog

55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning

56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings

57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio

58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem

59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa

60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do

61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog

62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon

63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs

64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals

65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats

66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.

67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash

68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique

69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver

70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit

71. YOU ARE HERE! Diane Hawkey

72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas

73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix

74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems

75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!

76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium

77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art

78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden

79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads

80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook

81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy

82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods

84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs

85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries

86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka

87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae

88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy

89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations

90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss

91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous

92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead

93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations

94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof

95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio

96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box

97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs

98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue

99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads

100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings

101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio

102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations

103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios

104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore

105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations

106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky

107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric

108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs

109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading

110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman

111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe

112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo

113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs

114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me

115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf

116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer

117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles

118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie

119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart

120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs

121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven

122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings

123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass

124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks

125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things

126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos

127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee

128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M

129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry

130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads

131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny

132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore

133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog

134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder

135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs

136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies

137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art

138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.

139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter

140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy

141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse

142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings

143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts

144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense

145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique

146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads

147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul

148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me

149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog

150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions

151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T

152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals

153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area

154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs

155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta

156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef

157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye

158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color

159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman

160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory

161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst

162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed

163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu

164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio

165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra

166. Anna Motz, Stunning

167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings

168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads

169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings

170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope

171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones

172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs

173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass

174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre

175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine | Credit River Art Glass

176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog

177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio

178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're

179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux

180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me

181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art

182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog

183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen

184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink

185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin

186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer

187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels

188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry

189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos

190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.

191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry

192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle

193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini

194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse

195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between

196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets

197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts

198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs

199. Karen Williams, Baublicious

200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend

201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell

202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts

203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs

204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads

205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique

206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry

207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads

208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love

209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry

210. Shirley Moore, Beads and Bread

Bead Soup Party Preview

2011-02-22T02:18:00.005-05:00

Of course my inspiration fairy comes and slaps me upside the head at 2 AM. I should be getting to bed because I have to me a mommy at 7AM.

But all the sudden I get that feeling that my heart just might burst if I do not follow where this is leading me now.

I know what I need to do with my soup, all the beads are talking to me at once telling me their story.

Then the next step. How do I construct my project? Its 2:30 and I really need to sleep, but I know this will be jumping up and down in my head like kids in a bouncy house until I figure out what to do.

I need a substantial structure to hold everything together. I am lucky that I found a roll of steel wire while rummaging in my bead boxes.

Ok now I am on a roll- its eight go to bed or stay up all night and work.

I choose sleep only because I will be less cranky in the morning as I push my daughter out the door and dive back into my beads.

Bead Soup is coming!~

2011-02-22T00:44:00.002-05:00

here is a preview of all the wonderful blogs participating!

Mark your calendar for this Saturday, Feb 26th!

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things

2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life

3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane

4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio

5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations

6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs

7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things

8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe

9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto

10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio

11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas

12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts

13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place

14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings

15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita

16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails

17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found

18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs

19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs

20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats

21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs

22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim

23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu

24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads

25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air

26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio

27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads

28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter

29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts

30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul

31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium

32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus

33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble

34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design

35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle

36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs

37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works

38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights

39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire

40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio

41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's

42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions

43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya

44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations

45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles

46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig

47. Amanda Davie, Articulations

48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady

49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux

50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks

52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles

53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde

54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog

55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning

56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings

57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio

58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem

59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa

60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do

61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog

62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon

63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs

64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals

65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats

66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.

67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash

68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique

69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver

70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit

71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey

72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas

73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix

74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems

75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!

76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium

77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art

78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden

79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads

80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook

81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy

82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods

84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs

85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries

86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka

87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae

88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy

89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations

90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss

91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous

92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead

93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations

94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof

95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio

96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box

97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs

98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue

99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads

100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings

101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio

102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations

103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios

104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore

105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations

106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky

107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric

108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs

109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading

110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman

111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe

112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo

113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs

114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me

115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf

116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer

117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles

118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie

119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart

120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs

121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven

122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings

123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass

124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks

125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things

126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos

127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee

128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M

129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry

130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads

131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny

132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore

133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog

134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder

135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs

136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies

137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art

138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.

139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter

140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy

141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse

142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings

143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts

144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense

145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique

146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads

147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul

148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me

149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog

150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions

151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T

152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals

153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area

154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs

155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta

156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef

157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye

158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color

159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman

160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory

161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst

162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed

163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu

164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio

165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra

166. Anna Motz, Stunning

167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings

168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads

169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings

170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope

171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones

172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs

173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass

174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre

175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine | Credit River Art Glass

176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog

177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio

178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're

179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux

180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me

181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art

182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog

183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen

184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink

185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin

186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer

187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels

188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry

189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos

190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.

191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry

192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle

193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini

194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse

195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between

196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets

197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts

198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs

199. Karen Williams, Baublicious

200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend

201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell

202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts

203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs

204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads

205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique

206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry

207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads

208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love

209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry

210. Shirley Moore, Beads and Bread

Desk Disaster Friday

2011-02-13T16:49:00.006-05:00

OK, I know its Sunday afternoon, not Friday, but if you will recall from my last Desk Disaster post I have CD (chronic disorganization). Its a syndrome. Don't judge.

I do want to report that I actually spent an hour cleaning this week. I set a timer. I

have my limits.

In all honesty a box of things got knocked down when I was letting the dog out. Assorted beads and bead paraphernalia went rolling across the floor which inspired a dose of stink eye from my husband. Don't get me started. He hardly has room to stink eye anybody. He doesn't even have a syndrome unless you count testosterone as an affliction, but I digress.

I did make some progress cutting through a small slice of chaos.

You can actually see "table" on my table.

I am gathering up many orphans and vagabonds and will have a giant sale when they are sorted.

Have you made any progress in your attempt to address your mess? or are you just going with the flow?

We have a flickr group! Post your mess!

Soup Weather

2011-02-10T00:40:00.006-05:00

We have been clobbered by snow and cold weather for so long it feels like I live in the frozen tundra.

It's soup weather for sure and I wanted to share the ingredients from my Bead Soup Partner the lovely and talented Amanda Cargill Austin of Sea Shore Glass.

In truth I received these beads over a week ago but between the snow days and my daughter home from school for a teachers mental health day, I have fallen behind once again. (not to mention they were camouflaged in the anarchy on my desk for a few days)

But I have been working.

This is the way to the studio

This is how I dress to load the kiln.

These are my feet walking out to the kiln.

This is the trail I leave.

It's definitely soup weather.

Desk Disaster Friday

2011-01-21T12:15:00.007-05:00

Ok people it's time to get naked. I have seen your your neat little piles of beads and such that are on your desk . I have seen your Bead Table Wednesday and I laugh.

Ha ha. I laugh at your messes. You are all amateurs. Your messes cannot even compete with mine.

So I dare you. I DOUBLE DARE you . Show me your Desk Disasters. Are you brave enough? are you messed up enough? are you also in a state of chronic disorganization?

Did you know there is a clinical name for it? Its called CD (chronic disorganization). Its a syndrome. I'm not making this shit up. You can Google it.

So if you are willing to play along with me I will post the condition of my desk every Friday and I vow to get on top of this disaster and conquer it.

I know I am not the only one out there. Especially when it comes to our creative spaces.

The rest of my house does not look like this. Its not up to Martha Stewart standers, but it is generally not a fucking disaster either, but when it come to my creative space, it looks like my mind had exploded in 3-D.

Come on admit I know some of you are just like me. Lets post our disasters and lets see if we and find a way to tame the beast.

Who wants to play?

We have a flickr group! post your mess!

Patience is a Virtue

2011-01-15T11:12:00.005-05:00

Patience is a Virtue, but I can't remember the last time I was called virtuous.

I got an email today pairing me up with my BEAD SOUP BLOG PARTNER. All i got was the E mail address of the other person and I have no Idea who it is.I can't wait for them to E mail me back and reveal their identity.

I'm like a kid on Christmas Eve. I can't help but to shake the presents.

So I leave you with the kinks for some morning tunes.

Happy and Free!

2011-01-12T00:03:00.004-05:00

I am feeling much better about things. I am actually excited to work again. I scrapped my old website and it felt like a weight was lifted. It was past time for a change. I am building one at big cartel. It's simple for us technologically challenged. You can still find me at www.dianehawkey.com, but things will be different. Its a work in progress. I'm loading it up with inventory and figuring out what I want to do with it. If you would like to purchase any of my work during this time of transition and can't find it on my website, just shoot me an email.

I am also feeling better in general. I was pretty much sick the entire month of December, so was my macbook.

I finally shook off the cooties, and the nice boy at the Apple store traded my old macbook for a new one out of the box so I can be blogging on the interwebs more frequently. (I learned all about kernel panics. They are bad)

All of this has me feeling happy and free, like dance naked in the rain happy and free. Right now we have 3" of snow out there and more coming down, so naked outdoor dancing is put on hold. Oh well, spring will be here soon

So some exciting things are happening that I want to share:

The Bead Soup Blog Party

My word beads are in both Step by Step Wire Jewelry & Stringing magazines and that's a great way to start the year.

Out With The Old, In With The New

2010-12-27T20:18:00.010-05:00

reinvent redefine rediscover recharge reexamine

Its that time of the year again. Things are going to change. I need a fresh start.

I am going to redo the website,(If its disappears for a while, don't worry, it will be back). I am getting rid of old styles that are just not "me" anymore.

I've had some of these beads for 10 years and they no longer make me feel good. Some still resonate with me and I will keep them, perhaps tweak them, but it will be a conscious decision and not "just because".

A lot of these things have been a heavy weight on me. I need to breathe again and allow myself the freedom to create.

I honestly don't know what that will be. Clay makes me happy but I will be exploring more media keep the winter blues at bay.

Maybe its because its the end of the year. Maybe because I realize how old I am and how fast time slides by.

So many people I care about have experienced loss in this past year. Loss of their homes, loss of their beloved pets and even loss of their earthly life.

It has made me reexamine my own life and my own direction and I hope it has made me brave.

Wishing everyone a sweet New Year.

WINNER

2010-11-28T00:02:00.002-05:00

The auction winner is aljamie

& the winner of the special randomly drawn surprise (a small set of word beads) is

mlgovaars

Please email me with your addresses and we'll sort the details.

Thanks to everyone who bid.

Friendship is a sheltering tree.

2010-11-17T01:22:00.003-05:00

Friendship is a sheltering tree. ~Samuel Taylor Coleridge

I count myself lucky to know Andrew Thornton. I met him many bead shows ago. He is one of those special people that make the world a little more sparkly.

Andrew has been diagnosed with skin cancer- (specifically a big word type of cancer that I cannot spell)

The good new is he has had treatment and the Doctors have now pronounced him cancer free.

The bad news is that as an artist in this country you have to pay for your own medical bills, which easily cost 10 times more then you funeral.

So there is where friends and good people come in.

Many artists have been helping Andrew make a small dent in this mountain of medical debt by having special sales of their work . I am happy to be joining them with this Spirit Doll.

As I posted before, This is one of the last remaining spirit dolls in my inventory.

I have made them for a number of years and I feel its time to try new things. I will not be making these figures anymore. This is a last chance to own one.

So if you would like to bid on this this piece, knowing all proceeds will go to Andrew Thornton, (I will pay shipping) please leave a comment below with your bid.

The bidding will start at $20 U.S.

Also as an incentive to bid I will put every name that bids in a hat & the winner of that random drawing will get a special surprise that I'll post later. (let the suspense kill ya a little) The more times you bid, the more chances of getting the special surprise.

The bidding starts today Weds Nov 17 & ends at midnight Saturday Nov 27th.

About the piece:

This spirit doll is about 12 " tall and is ready to hand on the wall.

It is made of white stoneware, glazed in a beautiful pewter metallic and fired to cone 6.

The central assemblage is mixed media.

It is signed and dated.

Opening bid $20

THE BIDDING STARTS NOW!

time to change, time to shine

2010-11-15T00:00:00.008-05:00

I have been thinking a lot about change lately. Its easy to do what works and not risk failure. As an artist there is a trap in being successful. You begin to get too comfortable.

I feel ready to change a lot of things. It is exhilarating and sad too. I will be saying goodbye to some things that I have done for a long time that are almost a part of me, like chopping off pretty long hair because you have hung on to it for so long you forget what made you grow it out in the first place, but you know you really wanted it at some point.

I will be placing a lot of beads on Etsy at special prices for the Holidays to move a lot of my stock. I am not sure what my beads will look like next year, but I know there will be changes.

Also, I have been making these "spirit dolls" or figures like this one for many years. People have loved and collected them, and I have been very fortunate to have found a following with them. But all things come to an end. And I don't think I will make any more of these. Or if I do they will be in a different and yet to be explored incarnation.

Anyway, you have a chance to acquire one of these figures before they are gone. I have just a few left in my stock and I have decided that I would like to use the opportunity to do some good as I let this work go.

So stay tuned I'll announce how you can get one of the last of these and help a fellow artist with his enormous medical bills.

Admitting you have a problem is the first step...

2010-11-09T20:35:00.007-05:00

Here it is, no sugar coating it. I spent last Sunday at Ayla's Bead Bazaar. My table was next to JC Pearls. They had 3 tables, so that's 18 feet of pure pearl goodness. It was like putting Martha Stewart next to a vendor full of color coordinated cocktail fork organizers. They kept calling my name.... Diane....Diane....

I have had a thing for pearls nice I was a girl. They are my birthstone and symbol of the moon, ever so gently reflecting light back to you.

Ok, it was like putting Anthony Bourdain in a room full of shark testicles cooked in butter. I could not help myself. I had to have some. I really cannot afford to be buying more pearls & the sales were not the kind that make me feel like "hey you can do something nice for yourself today". They were more like "ummmm... booth fee + hotel room + gas + food = oh shit, I better fill my Etsy store".

But looking in the bright side I reasoned with myself, (since I am a reasonable person) I really do want to design more finished jewelry & heck I could do some kick ass designs with these little beauties.

So I succumbed. What can I say? They were so pretty.

November is here

2010-11-04T19:52:00.004-04:00

November is here. The leaves are still falling, but so is the temperature. Its time for that short burst of frenzied holiday shows and stocking galleries that are still talking to me.

The only consolation to this madness is I have a legitimate excuse to play with glitter. I really don't need an excuse to play with glitter, but just in case my kid goes to school sparkling like a disco hootchie, I might need an explanation.

Besides the approaching winter, the other change around here is Arlo.

He is my new Boston Terrier.

Arlo was a day away from execution at a kill shelter in Tennessee when he was pulled by a rescue and flown to Louisville by Pilots and Paws.

Last Saturday he was transported by three different volunteers up to central OH were we pick him up and brought him home.

We were lucky we found him and he is lucky he made it out alive.

I wish there were not so many who run out of luck too quickly.

Inspiration in Autumn

2010-10-17T12:13:00.003-04:00

The Chihuly exhibit at the Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids has been on my to-do list since it opened in May. I finally made it there in last days of the exhibit this month.

It was so magical in its autumn backdrop. I think I came at the right time.

It also made me think about organic shapes and the use of color. I know this will influence my work in the future.

Now if I only had a Chihuly instillation in my own garden, life would be just about perfect.

Ok I seriously suck

2010-09-30T09:19:00.006-04:00

Ok, I suck. It has been 28 days since my last blog post.

I feel like I should be doing a mea culpa.

The problem is my life just hasn't been that interesting. I have been busy making beads, filling a large order, getting my daughter settled back in school, taking the my poor 12 year old dog to the vet (does anyone really want me to blog about his stuffy gallbladder & flatulence?)

And the honest truth I have been in a funk. I have been so busy with production and all mundane things life requires that I haven't had time to be really be inspired.

This is the dilemma of the artist that relies on making a living with her craft. Too often it leaves little time to explore new things.

I am hoping that as this new month begins I will be able to have fun again.

Lots of catching up to do.

2010-09-02T10:00:00.004-04:00

Some of the loot I got from Bead Fest to go with my new Koi bead.

So much to say, so little time. I know I have been neglecting my blog, my etsy and everything else you can think of, but know that I have not been sitting around eating bonbons.

I went from the Philly Bead Fest to the Bucktown Art Fest and back home to a pile of orders.

I am still playing catch up.

The Bead Fest was great fun. I got to hang out with some super cool & talented ladies, including the fabulous Lorelei Eurto, Kerry Bogert, Nancy Schindler, Kelly Wentzel, and Cassandra Procopio, along with my booth-mate Melanie Brooks. We had the greatest time together and I cannot wait to go back next year to do it again and hang out with my new friends. (Did I mention how awesome these women were?)

As soon as I came home from Philly I had to put on my magic artist pants turn this pile in my studio into art.

Chicago was fun but the Bucktown show was a disappointment sales-wise. Not sure if I'll do it again next year. (But my magic artist pants did their job and I did make some great pieces)

Now I am back home trying to catch up on orders, get my life together, get my daughter off to the 4th grade, apply to foster a doggie through Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue , (cause I need another Boston Terrier like a hole in the head, but I just can't help myself), get projects ready for publication, teach 2 classes this month & oh yeah, the Holidays are right around the corner.

Holy crap! I must be out of my mind.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-08-15T00:50:00.007-04:00

The truth is the garden is a mess. it has been HOT for too long here and things are either overgrown or thin and crispy. There is no in between. To make matters worse, I have not had more then a few moments to even survey the damage. I am working to get ready for two shows in the next 2 weeks. Bead fest in Philly and Bucktown in Chicago. To complicate matters even further, the Bucktown is going to be showing my sculptural work, not beads and jewelry. I have to completely switch gears in the middle of this mess.

I have not had the time to stop and and appreciate the beauty of summer. It feels like it might be over with before I get to slow down. I wish I could find the same beauty in the endless grey days of winter when it seems I have all the time in the world.

For now, its back to work for me. Time to figure out what I am sending ahead by mail and what I am taking on the plane to Philly.

Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair

2010-07-29T23:52:00.010-04:00

My Art Fair Booth

I survived the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair and lived to tell.

It was hot and humid and at times the rain sent so much water running through my booth it was like Venice, but without a cute Italian boy in a boat floating by.

I laughed, I cried, I made new friends, saw some old ones, felt really stabby by 4pm everyday, but all in all it was a good show.

Now I am getting ready for the Philly Bead Fest later this month. Switching gears again & then switching them back for the Bucktown Arts Fest after that.

In the meanwhile its good to be back home off the street, out of the rain and sun and back in bed with my old stinky dogs. Who knew dog farts could be such a comfort?

Monday sunny Monday

2010-07-12T16:55:00.007-04:00

I did not write my Sunday post because, quite simply with all this heat, everything is thin and crispy (including my brain cells).

We did however get a glorious thunderstorm overnight which seemed to revive things.

Next week I will be setting up for the Ann Arbor Summer fair. So if you happen to be in town:

I will be in Booth 194 on Main St. in front of Palios Italian Restaurant.

I will trade beads for iced coffee drinks!

So between now and then I will be working at a manic pace and won't have much time for the interwebs.

But I will leave you with a link to Beads of Clay where I am the featured artist for the month of July. And I am adding two items to their ETSY store.

No bees, no honey; no work, no money

2010-07-07T02:19:00.004-04:00

I wonder if the bees ever get weary of their vocation? Do they fly into my garden and say to themselves"Oh Crap! look at all the damn flowers! I will be pollinating all freakin day!"?

Or do they just take it one flower at a time, never worrying about what the day will bring?

This morning I looked at my pile of beads to glaze and said to myself "Oh Crap! I will be glazing all day!" I did glaze all day, 6 hours straight, and only conquered maybe half of the pile.

This means tomorrow will bring the same thing.

No bees, no honey; no work, no money.

I should not complain though. I had the benefit of air conditioning all day. The bees are not so lucky.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-07-03T17:37:00.004-04:00

A quiet place

I need a quiet place I have one in my garden. I go there to be alone with my thoughts.

In my garden there is a small plot that is our pet cemetary. Two kitties, 3 fish and countless sea monkeies are buried there. I have a swinging seat and a beautiful veiw of the garden, I sit there and to stop thinking, or sometimes to focus my thoughts.

This week has been especially stressful. I am getting ready for the Ann Arbor Summer Fair, finishing up orders and just trying in general to get a grip on my life.

The quiet time has been important to help me keep a balance.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-06-27T12:25:00.008-04:00

At the risk of riling my dead ancestors, I'd like to talk about the humblest of flowers, the orange daylily. (Hemerocallis for you latin lovers).

My Nana did not like them because she thought they were common flowers that grew in ditches and on my father's side my Grandma did not like them because she was a hot tempered Irish Catholic who despised all things orange and would go so far as to knock their heads off when she passed them because she assumed they were all protestant "PUPS".

I confess during my first years of gardening I didn't hold the daylily in high esteem. It was the flower of last resort when nothing else would grow in a particular spot. The humble daylily never let me down.

I have come to admire and resect them for their beauty and reliability and for their optimism. They open at sunrise and wither at sunset, and the very next morning a replacement flower steps in and does it all over again without complaint.

Simple and humble and strong, the common daylily has earned my respect.

Here are more humble flowers, these ones are my high fired stoneware buttons. I have listed some on Etsy, but will special orders too.

Bead Soup Party!!

2010-06-20T06:14:00.004-04:00

The Bead Soup Blog party is on. So grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, depending on the time of day and your mood, and enjoy all the lovelies.

These beads are from my soup partner Barbara Bechtel of Second Surf.

When I first saw them I was enchanted by the colors. I have a thing for coral, and these just made my heart go pitter patter. The unexpected thing is, how good they felt in my hand, Some beads were just made to be fondled. I knew I had to design something that could be touched while being worn, almost like a talisman.

So I decide to do a very long wire wrapped piece that would hand down and allow the beads to be held when worn.

Todays party features these beaders:

14. Jen, Jen Judd Rocks

15. Kella, Me But a Little More In Depth

16. Emanda, Artemisia Studio

17. Marie, Skye Jewels

18. Loretta, Designs By Loretta

19. Stacy, Sissy and Jack's

20. Joanna, Filcowe

21. Diane, Diane Hawkey

22. Marianna, Pretty Shiny Things

23. Anna, The Laughing Raven

24. Marcie, La Bella Joya

25. Lois, Que Onda Q'town?

26. Jayne, Mama's Got To Doodle

Check out yesterdays posts too!:

1. Lori, Pretty Things

2. Lorelei, Lorelei1141

3. Norma, Moonlit Fantaseas

4. Beth, EB Bead and Metalworks

5. Katie, KatieBead

6. Kimberly, Bahama Dawn

7. Debbie, Prairie Emporium

8. Lisa, Joolz by Lisa

9. Kate, Tropical Blonde

10. Janet, Singing Woods

11. Julianna, Juls Beads

12. Erin, Treasures Found

Back from Bead and Button

2010-06-16T19:30:00.012-04:00

It's good to be home.

We (Melanie Brooks & I) had a little trouble on the way back with a deer on I-94. We were OK the deer & the van both were totaled.

I've taken a few days to chill and now I am back to business.

So first things first,

The show: I had an excellent time. Sales were good. A lot of new stores are carrying my beads. that makes me very happy. It's exciting to think of my little beads in hands all over the country.

My new work went over well. I got to reconnect with some old friends and customers. The only regret I have is not getting to see more of the show myself.

I did get to go the the swinging Tierra Cast party at the Hilton after the show closed. It was awesome & we got to see some of their new line. I am excited to use some of the new components in my work.

I did manage to get out of my booth long enough to pick up some wonderful goodies though.

This lovely silk ribbon from "Silk painting is fun" I wanted to roll around in all the pretty colors. I did restrain myself.

And I made some cool trades with Andrew Thorton of Green Girl Studios (Hey Andrew I still owe you some more beads~)

And then there were these lovelies from Heather Powers of Humble Beads:

I fell hard for these colors. I don't know what I am going to do with them yet, but I promise it will be awesome.

And like always, I had to get something for my daughter:

These are by Clay River Designs.

Actually the betta fish is for my daughter & the orca is for me. (We have 4 bettas and there is always a drama with them. I just nursed Matisse back from the brink of velvet death days before I left for the show- (Betta drama will be for another post some other day. Actually I think they could have their own blog since they seem to have very eventful lives for fish. Too bad they can't type with their little fins. I ain't got the time.)

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-06-13T09:49:00.002-04:00

I am home sick. i have been squirreled away at the convention center in Milwaukee for the Bead and Button Show. I have meet so many great people here and reconnected with so many friends that I should feel surrounded by good vibes and happiness, but the truth is no matter how wonderful the experience has been, I miss my home, I miss my dirt.

When I get home late tonight I will go to sleep in my own bed and in the morning I will walk through my garden and assess the changes that have occurred worry about the plants that look neglected and moan over the work that needs to be done.

I could never be a gypsy. I need my roots and they need to touching my small piece of earth.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-06-06T10:07:00.003-04:00

Sometimes things in Life are not as perfect as you'd like. One of my favorite roses "Pat Austin" was ravaged by sawfly larva. But it still opened and smelled amazing despite its troubles.

This past week for me has sort of been ravaged by cosmic sawfly larva. I am leaving for Bead and Button on Weds. I am supposed to be farther ahead in my preparations.

I planned well but the universe had other ideas. This week has been a series of misadventures and of little things going awry, highlighted by my dog getting into the medicine cabinet and opening a bottle of grape flavored children's ibuprofen and licking up the contents. Which meant my day was spent with an emergency vet visit instead of finishing up bisque ware for the show.

So I am trying to find the beauty in imperfection and reminding myself that we just have to do the best we can under the circumstances, even with cosmic sawfly larva.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-05-31T13:30:00.004-04:00

Ok it's really Monday, I know, but it's a 3-day weekend so give me a break.

This is a picture of my deck & yes I know it needs refinishing, but I'm busy, so give me another break there.

That fabulous rose is called Zepherine Drouhin. It is bourbon climber, nearly thornless and wonderfully fragrant.

Later in the season it will look like crap. it is a martyr to black spot. (Not the kind Pirates get, the kind rose bushes get).

I won't spray, so I live with it.

Anyway, I LOVE the pink color of this rose. It is actually officially called "cerise" and it demands to be noticed. It is not a sissy pink. If Cerise were a girl she could kick your ass without breaking her nails.

Bead Soup Party!!

2010-05-26T16:27:00.004-04:00

Last week I got my Bead Soup swap. My partner is Barbara Bechtel of Second Surf.

Ideas have been bouncing around my head after touching these lovelies. They feel amazing in my hands. It will be a pleasure to create with these.

The bead soup party starts June 19th so I still have time to dream up something wonderful.

Sunday Muddy Sunday

2010-05-22T23:48:00.013-04:00

This is a yellow Iris that smells like powdered lemonade mix.

Ha ha! Made you sniff the screen!

This post is the first in a series of Sunday posts on my blog inspired by my garden.

It is the end of May and things are in bloom. I live in Michigan, incase you need to be reminded, things in bloom are a big deal here. It is a short and sweet season of gardening in this area.

I love my garden. I love all gardens. They are magical places to me. They are spiritual. They are my church. They are where I feel connected to all creation.

So I decided to devote one blogging day a week to my garden and its inspiration.

This is not going to be a how to or a source of practical knowledge about plants and planting, although I do have some knowledge of things, but rather a celebration of plants and bugs and flowers and dirt.

This is one of the things that feeds my creativity. Something deep and profound happens in a place where you collaborate with nature.

I wish you really could smell this.

its a bouquet of some of my earliest blooming roses.

Zephirine Drouhin, Therese Bugnet, Reine de Violettes, and Clotilde Soupert

along with the remaining Korean lilacs.

It is heaven.

Just working away.

2010-05-17T20:25:00.004-04:00

I've been a busy working away. I don't get out much when I'm getting ready for shows.

Here is some work that I haven't had time to list on Etsy.

Bead and Button is fast approaching and I want to really rock the show this time.

Also if anyone is going to be there and wants to give me a bathroom break, please let me know!

Motherhood

2010-05-08T01:12:00.004-04:00

It's Mother's Day today.

Motherhood stuffs me so full of emotions I could pop.

I cannot explain the weight of feelings motherhood presses on you. It is an ever changing state of wonder, love, frustration, amazement and terror.

It rips your heart out and stuffs it full at the same time.

Some people make it look easy, but I assure you its not.

Happy Mother's day to all the mothers all over the world.

Not dead, just sleeping...

2010-05-07T00:35:00.003-04:00

I have been neglecting my blog and all my interwebs lately. I assure you I am not dead, just a bit frazzled. I am a mom and a wife and a person and an artist and sometimes there are just not enough hours in the day.

But here is a quick run down of the last few weeks.

I did the Suburban Bead Encounter in Naperville. Sales were not great but it was a nice show & got to see a lot of cool beads & wonderful peeps.

I have been working on a new backdrop display for my husbands (Doug Spalding in case you don't know) art fair both. He doesn't sew, so I get to do it for him.

He is at the Laumeier art fair in St Louis this weekend. So we'll see how this new backdrop works out.

I have also been busy making beads & getting ready for the crazy bead show/art-fair schedule ahead.

So, I a still alive and ticking. Just a bit stretched.

Not to mention the sick dog, the kid on the bike who got hit by the car right in front of me ( he was OK, but i had a freaking heart attack) and the kitchen pipes so rusted they crumbled into pieces when I whacked them with my hand digging for the upholstery cleaner under the sink to clean up the mess the sick dog made.

Some days its really hard to be inspired.

Ouch my boob!

2010-04-07T15:46:00.003-04:00

I went to the imaging center today to redo my mammogram. I had been there last week but they needed additional pictures. This time they compressed my breast into a pancake and it still aches 5 hours later.

They got the images they needed and sent me home with a clean bill of health.

So just a reminder to those of you who need it done, schedule your yearly exam and may you celebrate your womanhood with years of good health to come.

Finally listed on Etsy

2010-04-05T23:52:00.003-04:00

These were so hard to photograph for some reason. I finally have them listed on Etsy.

I Spy

2010-04-04T01:05:00.004-04:00

I spy with my little eye, a bead of mine on the cover. I can't wait until this issue comes out!

You can pre-order it or look for it on your newstand soon!

Its always an awesome magazine.

I'm back.....

2010-03-30T23:00:00.005-04:00

The Madison Art Glass and Bead show is over with and I am happy to be home.

I met some awesome people there including Brenda Schweder who was wearing a most fabulous neckpiece of steel wire. It turns out that she is the talented Brenda Schweder who has authored books on jewelry design and is coming out with another one soon.

Very Cool.

I also saw some great work, like the wonderful metal pendants by Kristi of Colliebug. Not only was her work inspiring, but I wanted to run off with her table cloth and wear it.

I figured she may have noticed it missing and i would be pretty easy to spot twirling around in it.
(thats my beadie bud Melanie of Earthenwood looking over the Colliebug stash.)

Like i said its good to be home. I missed my people and my dogs.

My next road trip isn't until the end of April for the Suburban Bead Encounter. Thats April 25 in Naperville IL, so mark your calenders. Please say "Hi" if you are there. I don't bite, contrary to what you may have heard.

Bead Shows!

2010-03-23T15:37:00.003-04:00

This past sunday I was at the GLBG Bead Bonanza. It was fun to get my feet wet again the bead season.

I got to spend time with Melanie Brooks and Andrew Thornton which was just icing on the cake.

This weekend I'm off to Madison WI for the ART GLASS & BEAD SHOW.

New Work!

2010-03-20T16:35:00.003-04:00

I am going to debut my new work at the Bead Bonanza tomorrow.

These are my very cool padlock pendants. Yep, they are ceramic.

They are different from anything I've done before, which makes me nervous and excited both.

I will try to get them listed on Etsy next week too.

I'd love to hear what you think about them.

It's Spring!

2010-03-13T20:49:00.002-05:00

That means I am getting ready for the GREAT LAKES BEAD BONANZA . It will be next sunday in Southfield Michigan.

The following week I'll be in Madison Wisconsin for the ART GLASS & BEAD SHOW.

I'm excited to get the season going. I hope to see lots of old friends and new people there.