Sharon's Jewelry Garden

Yes, it's True!

2012-01-29T13:18:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to have participated in Lori's ground-breaking Bead Soup Book! I want to thank Lori for her confidence in my creative ability and congratulate her on an awesome and ofttimes, difficult job.

Head out to Lori's blog to celebrate her brand spankin' new book. I'm waiting for my autographed copy!

First Annual Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-22T11:31:00.000-08:00

Big news! The First Annual Virtual Craft Show is being hosted by Lori Anderson of Pretty Things, Nov. 26th through Dec. 3rd, 2011.

Seven days of fun, 70 artists participating, including yours truly:

And we are GIVING AWAY 70 beautiful pieces of hand-crafted art to wear!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

Autumnal Alchemy

2011-10-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature is alighting every flower and tree with her alchemical wand and we are her rapt audience. The chilly air is perfect for torching copper and watching the transmutation of color from that of shiny pennies to shades of vermillion, rosy reds and softest pink. The torch is our magic wand and like Mother Nature, we weild it with care to achieve those gorgeous fall hues that warm our hearts and senses. Happy Autumn!

Autumn Fires by Robert Louis Stevenson

In the other gardens
And all up the vale,
From the autumn bonfires
See the smoke trail!

Pleasant summer over
And all the summer flowers,
The red fire blazes,
The grey smoke towers.

Sing a song of seasons!
Something bright in all!
Flowers in the summer,
Fires in the fall!

Barbara Lewis' Virtual Book Tour

2011-10-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Head on over to Barbara's blog and check out her Virtual Book Tour for Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry and cool giveaways!

Lots of good stuff happening there, so check it out!

Winner!

2011-10-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

Melissa Meman, come on down and claim your prize! Email me your address and Beaducation will send you a DVD of your choice. Congratulations and happy creating!

Beaducation DVD Review and a Giveaway!

2011-09-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Beaducation's newest MetalWork Series DVD class, Introduction to Soldering with Kate Richbourg. Kate demystifies the art of soldering, it's not as frightening or dangerous as it looks! Kate's teaching style is meticulous and thorough and will have you soldering away creating a beautiful sterling silver link bracelet and a cool copper dome charm in no time!

Kate begins by reviewing the most important first step: your safety and what you need to protect yourself from chemicals. I found the her tips on making jumprings the most thorough I have seen yet. Using paste solder, Kate demonstrates how easy it is to produce excellent results, as well as troubleshooting tips if your solder decides to misbehave. Creating the copper charm is the icing on the cake and with Kate's instruction, you will have the resources and inspiration to create anything your imagination can dream up.

And now for the giveaway! Please leave one comment on my blog and I will draw a winner for a Beaducation DVD of your choice! Check out your DVD choices here on Beaducation. Comments will be closed on Saturday, October 1, at 12 Noon PST. I will draw a winner by random generator. Good luck and happy soldering!

No Naughty Dogs Were Harmed In the Making of This Second Bead Soup Necklace!!!

2011-09-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

Whew! It's finally done and I think I like this version better, so I'm chalking it up to a "happy doggy accident"! And yes, my dogs really did eat my beadwork...if I had a nickel for every time that student excuse was thrown my way I would have tons more beads! Maybe I should have believed them... ;)

Drum Roll Please:

I used almost all the stones that Shannon sent me and added my own Czech glass flower and leaves, in addition to my handcrafted copper S links which I think echos the curves in the flower focal.

I think the rich pinky-orange ribbon really enhances the ceramic butterfly, bronzite and jasper stones Shannon included.

Well, there you have it. A tragedy of sorts has blossomed into a comedy of errors and all's well that ends well! Thank you for being patient and all your funny comments!

Bead Soup Blog Hop

Bead Soup Reveal:To Be or Not To Be, That is the Question:A Tragedy in One Act

2011-09-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm sure this is going to be a first in blogland, and especially Lori's Bead Soup Party! I had made a lovely necklace from the gorgeous beads Shannon Chomaniak had sent and I was ready to take pics yesterday in front of a nice sunny window in the bedroom.

The phone rang as it usually does in the middle of a project! So I ran to the kitchen to answer it and had a conversation with a dear friend. SO. Here comes the tragedy...as I was walking down the hall toward my "photo shoot" bedroom, I heard scuffling sounds under the bed, and guilty looks from the other two dogs who are too big to fit under that bed. Well. My creation was transformed into a play toy that now was scattered all over the hardwood floor. ZOUNDS and CURSES, you naughty dogs!

Hubby helped me gather the bits and there is one bead missing which I'm sure landed in a guilty party's stomach. It should come out in the end though, but you may be sure I won't look for it!

Anyway, I will do my best to salvage the bits and create a new necklace or bracelet today and post by this evening, I hope. But meanwhile, I did visit Shannon's blog and I'm thrilled that she created such beautiful pieces! I'm so happy she loves my handcrafted copper flower and butterfly that I created for her! Here is some eye candy so my post won't be so bare!

Head on over to the talented Shannon's blog to check out her finished soup, and everyone elses! Go Here

Bead Soup Goodies

2011-08-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

Look what I found in my mailbox today!

My Bead Soup partner Shannon Chomanczuk of For My Sweet Daughter sent me some delicious ingredients and I am excited to cook something up with these gorgeous beads!

Shannon sent a rustic ceramic flower pendant by Beadfreaky, peachy butterfly by Nan Emmett, swirly lampwork bead by Unicorn, navy blue lampwork by Sea Shore Glass, and to tie all the earthy colors together, some leopard jasper, bronzite, and a Vintage toggle clasp.

I really love these ingredients, thanks Shannon! And I do have to mention that great minds think alike, not only are our names similar, but I also sent Shannon a flower focal and butterfly charm...I hear the Twilight Zone theme song...:0)

More Copper!

2011-08-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

Just a few more things I've been pounding on and torching which equals fun for me!

A bracelet focal that I patina'd with los and ammonia. Can you spot the navy blue colors on the left top and bottom? It's almost a steely blue color.

another torched flower, looks like a hibiscus...

An autumn leaf...

and an autumn bloom...that's all, folks!

Some New Metal Work

2011-08-09T22:21:00.000-07:00

I have been pounding copper and silver last week and forming three dimensional flowers in pursuit of emulating nature as it unfolds around me. One of my favorite flowers grow on the Desert Willow tree, indigenous to the high desert and very popular for its beautiful pink blossoms that bloom against a brilliant green foliage. So pretty, and don't you love those pods? That's my next experiment!

And here is my interpretation in copper ~

First, I sketched my flower then sawed out the pattern and gave the copper a rich colorful patina with my torch. I added a vintage Czech drop, but I'm thinking of removing it and adding something in pink, what do you think?

My mother was born in Hawaii and has a fondness for the Hibiscus flower. I have a pot of these tropical beauties on my patio and they are surprisingly easy to grow in the desert. I created my version in silver and will do a second in copper soon.

Finally, just a pair of earrings for fun. I have fallen in love with Czech glass beads and the purple drops look like juicy plump berries!

That's it for now, I had better get crackin' on my Bead Soup recipe. Stay tuned for more metal adventures!

Hot Connections Jewelry Book Review

2011-07-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

I was very excited when asked to review this new and timely how-to jewelry book authored by artist, teacher, and metal smith Jennifer Chin since nowadays artisans everywhere are expanding their art jewelry repertoire to include soldering precious metals and setting stones.

I own several soldering instruction books and DVDs so I was curious to see what Ms. Chin had to offer, and I was in for a real treat. I felt Ms. Chin's personality shine through in her calm and reassuring narrative. Her instructions are clear and easy to understand and I learned several neat soldering and fabrication techniques that I never learned in my year long immersion in a college level metalsmithing class. That in itself was priceless to me!

Ms. Chin presents her lessons in six chapters which are fully illustrated in color shots and clever pencil sketches. Each full chapter includes several project lessons of lovely and modernistic designs. I found the photography of Ms. Chin's and other artists work to be crisp and pristine in black and white, evoking the feel of museum pieces, but still accessible and inspiring to the budding jewelry artist.

Hot Connections Jewelry will definitely get your creative juices flowing, not to mention feasting your eyes on stunning wearable art that you too, are capable of creating after reading this valuable art jewelry resource!

It's Going to be HUGE!

2011-07-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

YAY! Bead Soup Blog Party sign ups start August 1-3, so mark your calendars! Check out Lori's blog for all the details. I had so much fun in the first two events I am happily signing up for the latest and greatest. Don't miss out on all the fun!

Adventures in Fold Forming and Leather Tooling

2011-07-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Have you been in a creative funk lately? I've been pretty unproductive, you know that nagging feeling that you should be creating but need a kick in the pants? So I searched for an alternative learning experience, a place where I would be immersed in new techniques with like minded artisans. I discovered a wonderful oasis in the desert right here in Las Vegas. It's the beautiful private home studio of Colleen McGraw and she teaches metalsmithing, mixed media, leather tooling, Silver Metal Clay, and so much more in a relaxed setting conducive to creativity. Here are some projects I've recently finished:

I love this leather bracelet! We cut out our own leather strips, tooled designs into the leather with stamps, colored it, riveted it with bling, then sawed out faux bone into a design of choice and wired it onto a vintage finding. Whew! It took five hours but well worth it!

I completed these fold formed copper bracelets last month in Colleen's studio:

The bracelets were torch fired for a beautiful bronzy gold color then preserved with renaissance wax. Armed with a plethora of new techniques, I am inspired to create again. If you live in Vegas and have a hankering for a relaxed and friendly creative environment, check out Colleen's blog for her monthly lessons and do tell her I sent you!

Gamboling in the Meadow

2011-05-07T21:56:00.000-07:00

I was imagining myself gamboling in a meadow when I was working on these earrings, with the burst of flowers and the sunlight dancing prisms on the quartz. It reminded me of a trip to Utah one summer, and there are pictures of me frolicking amongst the meadow flowers, but way too embarassing to post! Instead, here is a favorite poem, one guaranteed to make you smile!

The Gladness of Nature

by William Cullen Bryant

Is this a time to be cloudy and sad,
When our mother Nature laughs around;
When even the deep blue heavens look glad,
And gladness breathes from the blossoming ground?

There are notes of joy from the hang-bird and wren,
And the gossip of swallows through all the sky;
The ground-squirrel gaily chirps by his den,
And the wilding bee hums merrily by.

The clouds are at play in the azure space
And their shadows at play on the bright-green vale,
And here they stretch to the frolic chase,
And there they roll on the easy gale.

There's a dance of leaves in that aspen bower,
There's a titter of winds in that beechen tree,
There's a smile on the fruit, and a smile on the flower,
And a laugh from the brook that runs to the sea.

And look at the broad-faced sun, how he smiles
On the dewy earth that smiles in his ray,
On the leaping waters and gay young isles;
Ay, look, and he'll smile thy gloom away

7000 Bracelets Blog Hop!

2011-04-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my little corner of the 7000 Bracelet Project Blog Hop benefitting children with rare diseases. You can see all the pretties by clicking on particpant's links at Lori's Pretty Things blog, our blog hostess with the mostest.

The bracelets made for this blog hop will be sent to The Global Genes Project, an advocacy group who launched "7000 Bracelets for Hope", a children's rare disease campaign. The bracelets are given to one of 7000 families having children with rare diseases to show them love and support. I'm very proud to be part of such a worth while project.

The bracelet I created has a beautiful dark blue fluorite barrel stone accompanied by more fluorite stones, aquamarine rondelles, and sterling silver Bali beads. Enjoy the hop, everyone!

Lori's Fab Giveaway!

2011-04-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

Lori Anderson is having a giveaway of fabulous goodies on her blog Pretty Things! Take a sneak peek at one of the prizes:

I would love to win these cool stamps. Lori is sharing her bountiful shopping haul from her recent trip to Bead Fest Philly. To ooh and aah and enter Lori's giveaway, check out her blog.

Also happening at Lori's blog is the "7000 Bracelets for Hope" challenge.

Those beaders participating are to to make ONE bracelet in an adult size in a denim/blue jeans-inspired theme. Basically, any blue bead will do! The bracelets will be sent to The Global Genes Project, an advocacy group who launched "7000 Bracelets for Hope", a children's rare disease campaign. The bracelets are given to one of 7000 families having children with rare diseases to show them love and support.

Although it's too late to join, you can participate in the blog hop to view all the gorgeous bracelets this Saturday, April 16. All participant's blog links are posted on Lori's blog. Happy blog hopping!

'Lil Alien II

2011-04-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've heard the crazy rumors that have been circulating...that Hollywood is preparing us for the eventual takeover by, you guessed it...aliens! With all the ominous ufo movies, ancient alien tv programs, and the ridiculous car commercials. One commercial seems to capture all of the hysteria by flashing a speeding car, a Mayan priest reaching for the stars on the top of a pyramid, and aliens invading earth. Could that car be speeding AWAY from the Mayan prediction of 2012 catastrophe and impending doom of a hostile alien takeover? heheheh. yeah.

Where is this leading? Shameless self promotion of my newest Alien ring. He sports one antenna, three eyes, and lots of ancient amber orbiting his little face. He's sending me strange signals, horrible, horrible transmissions that my brain cannot shut out. Eat. More. BonBons. It is imperative that I eat more chocolate and other gooey deserts because it is my duty as an American citizen to keep the Sugar Czars in business. Am I right?

PS This is what happens when you've eaten too much Boston Cream Pie. I have to take a nap now.

A Spring Tonic

2011-04-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

I need a spring tonic, how about you? What is a spring tonic, anyway? I lived in the Appalachian mountains a lifetime ago and my Ma-maw-in-law had a tonic for 'purt near anything that ailed you. Her herbal spring tonic was taken complete with nose-pinching (nasty tasting stuff!) and was guaranteed to get the sap flowing in your lazy winter bones!

Now that spring has arrived, the song birds outside my window are chirping melodious music, my roses are blooming pink and apricot hues, and the lazy warm weather invites me to linger outdoors, perfect weather for sitting on the patio and sipping tea, or tonic!

This idyllic time of year gets my blood flowing again and I feel the urge to create something new, an Ode to Spring, something fresh, soft colors and blossoming dreams. Here is the result of my spring fever:

A yummy tangerine druzy set with twining vine and blossom in sterling silver.

I leave you with a quotation to ponder and inspire you to create your own Ode to Spring:

Is it so small a thing
To have enjoy'd the sun,
To have lived light in the spring,
To have loved, to have thought, to have done.

Matthew Arnold
From the Hymn of Empedocles.

Maire Dodd, Come on Down!

2011-04-02T16:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, in spite of modem problems causing a delay in the drawing we have a winner, Maire Dodd! Maire, please contact me so I can send you your fabulous prizes!

There will be more prizes coming soon, so stay tuned!

Winner was selected by Random.Org

It's My Birthday and I'll Share if I Want to!

2011-03-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

Hey hey it's my birthday today and I'm closer to 60 than I've ever been in my life! Hoo boy...and yes, my blog photo was taken two years ago (:0) so in celebration of my youthful longevity, I am sharing some of my favorite things, ceramic dragonfly focals, and a mystery clay connector just to keep an element of surprise.

So, while I am admiring the spring bouquet of irises, my fave flower, and munching on my fave See's chocolate bon bons my husband presented me today (hey, life is too short to spend it being a starving skinny minnie, can I get a witness?!) I am having a giveaway! Just leave a comment, or become a follower if you're not already, and I will draw a lucky winner on April 1, no foolin', at 5:00pm PDT. It's as easy as that! Good Luck, and I hope your Birthday is as lovely and tasty as mine!

Beach Pebble and a Little Alien

2011-03-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

Just give me a bag of rocks and I'm happy. You know what I mean if you love traversing hill and dale searching for that perfect rock, fallen tree limb, or cactus spine to add to your growing collection. It's like balm to a naturalist's soul. In my case these days or until the icy winds calm down, it's the Etsy hunt for that perfect beach pebble or fossil shell. I found mine at Stone Me. Don't you love that name? It makes me laugh a good belly laugh, and I'll take those laughs wherever I can find them!

Anyway, I popped this smooth, soothing to the touch of a beach pebble into a bezel and transformed it into tangible evidence that summer really does exist and it might be making an appearance somewhere near you. It's fun to play with and you can rub it and make happy wishes!

But I have to say this little guy stole my heart when I finished him...he looks like an ancient alien with antennae and cyclop eye. I wire wrapped the fossils onto a sterling cigar band with heat patinaed copper wire. I really had fun with him and I swear I'm picking up signals from...?

Happy Creating!

Shelby Foxwell, Come on Down!

2011-03-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, the True Random Number Generator chose #15, Sundown Bead Designs, as the lucky Beaducation winner! Shelby, you just won your choice of one of these three Beaducation Video Tutorials: Wire Fundamentals, Stringing Fundamentals, or Intro to Fine Silver Fusing. OOOHHH!

Make your choice and I will send your name and email address to the Beaducation Babes.

But wait, there's more! I will have another giveaway soon featuring a Rings and Things goody bag, so keep watching for your chance to win more fabulous prizes! AAAHHH!

A Beaducation Video Class Review and Giveaway!

2011-03-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

I was delighted when Beaducation's Kate Richbourgh contacted me to review a video tutorial of my choice for National Arts and Craft Month! Since I've not fused fine silver yet, I opted to watch Kriss Silva's class "Intro to Fine Silver Metal Fusing" and I was definitely impressed with her professionalism and knowledge of fusing fine silver.

Kriss is very thorough in her video, stressing safety in the studio and reviewing each tool and supply needed for successful fusing. I especially enjoyed her discussion on filling your micro butane torch, since I purchased one a while ago and had not yet used it. I even learned some cool new tips and tricks about shaping metal!

I decided to try my hand at silver fusing after viewing Kriss's tutorial, and printed out the handy instruction guide to keep for easy reference at my work bench. I opted not to fuse my links together, and connected my fused fine silver hoops with jump rings instead, and I pounded them pretty well, good therapy! Here are my results for the rings, and my new earrings!

How would you like to win a free Beaducation Video Tutorial? Just leave a comment on my blog and I will choose a lucky winner by random generator at 12noon PDT onMonday, March 21 . Good Luck!

RAW52/2

2011-03-09T22:57:00.000-08:00

Here is my Ring A Week submission, number two out of nine...okay, so I'm lagging behind, but I am chugging along determined to catch up!

An ethereal orb of glowing labradorite on your finger will light your path on all your fantastical journies. I imagine a Rivendell elf wearing this on her travels to the Grey Havens, can't you?

Bilbo's Last Song (At the Grey Havens)

Day is ended, dim my eyes,
But journey long before me lies.
Farewell, friends! I hear the call.
The ship's beside the stony wall.
Foam is white and waves are grey;
beyond the sunset leads my way.

Foam is salt, the wind is free;
I hear the rising of the sea.
Farewell, friends! The sails are set,
the wind is east, the moorings fret.
Shadows long before me lie,
beneath the ever-bending sky,
but islands lie behind the Sun
that I shall raise ere all is done;
lands there are to west of West,
where night is quiet and sleep is rest.

Guided by the Lonely Star,
beyond the utmost harbour-bar,
I'll find the heavens fair and free,
and beaches of the Starlit Sea.

Ship my ship! I seek the West,
and fields and mountains ever blest.
Farewell to Middle-earth at last.
I see the star above my mast!

Making Time for Creativity

2011-03-05T12:13:00.000-08:00

Do you suffer from "Creativity Lag", "Overwhelmed Chaos", or just that "Too Pooped to Pop" syndrome? I suffer from all three maladies! If I have impending deadlines, I freeze. Too much housework piling up? Ditto. It seems like there's never enough time in the day, or night, to accomplish all your fabulous creative ideas, much less plod through housework drudgery. I find that if I am working on a project, I am thinking about cleaning the kitchen and when I'm cleaning the bathroom, I'm thinking about that deadline! It actually took me two weeks to finish this pendant:

What to do?

I found this wonderful article posted on Whole Lotta Whimsy e-zine about making time for creative pursuits...well, I really noticed the squirell first, but that's another problem of mine...fuzzy funny animal pics. So, I read the article and found the advice to be valuable and I'm passing it on to you, with Whimsy's permission! I am taking Tonya's advice to heart so here's to accomplishing my ring project this weekend, instead of next month!

***********************************************************************************
WHOLE LOTTA WHIMSY Feature Article

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We creative types often live in overwhelm and chaos. It's not our fault. We can blame it on our right brain.

Right brain dominant or creative types are attuned to the feeling of life. We lead with our feelings and are minds are buzzing with great ideas. Ideas that take us on adventures where we often find organizing and systems to be dull. We prefer spontaneity and some clutter is often welcome. The key is keeping it all to a comfortable minimum.

When I work with artists, they often mention time management and overwhelm. Bemoaning it's existence and place in their lives. They'd like to find an easy way to learn to simplify, organize and systematize their priorities. This is possible by managing yourself.

In the last ezine, we covered Get Clarity. It's determining the important things you want to be able to accomplish and then how to Process the "Stuff" including Defining the Next Step.

My top 3 tips to Squashing Overwhelm in your Day

Tip #1

Set the tone for your day the night before. Similar to our Sunday Summit, at the end of each day, take a moment to go over what 3 things you'd like to accomplish the next day. This lets your subconscious sleep on it and prep for success.

I don't know about you but when I wake up, I can make or break my day in the first hour. If I am reacting to everything around me (emails, calls, issues) , I lose control of the flow of the day. The day slips away and at the end, I feel worn out and upset that I didn't accomplish what I wanted to. I was too busy being "busy".

Tip #2

Decide on 3 simple action items you'd like to accomplish today. These should be action items, not goals.

Goals are a header name of a project, like make a ring with granulation and a turquoise cab set into a bezel.

Action items are steps to accomplishing that goal, like saw, solder and stamp the outer design of the turquoise bezel setting. You break down the main goal into actionable steps!

One of the three items should be something from your Do It bin (like filing your taxes due this week) and another from your Defer It bin (entering receipts from your last show).

Tip #3

Schedule out your day in 60 minute increments. 40-50 minutes of that 60 are for working toward completing the task and 10-20 minutes are for checking email, facebook, twitter, tea, restroom, etc).

Your brain likes to focus. It does it's best work when no mulitasking is involved. Your brain is not happy when it's all hyped up like a golden retriever chasing 20 squirrels!

I know scheduling goes against our need for spontaneity, but it dissolves the desire for reacting to the things that keep us "busy" and the possibility of chasing the squirrel.

I also find using a timer to be essential. It's like crossing the finish line. When it goes off, you can celebrate. It's time for recess!

You'll find that by working toward the completion of a project, even if you do not finish it that day, you will feel immense pleasure that you have made progress. This will inspire you to work on it again, until it is completed.

Imagine how it would feel to have made a considerable portion of that ring today, instead of not even starting it. We don't have to work in an all or nothing mentality. Mindset is everything!

Breaking things down into small manageable bite sizes is key! Feeling completion and some sense of success is essential!

Don't forget to schedule in exercise, a good breakfast with protein, reading or writing, etc.

Send me an email and let me know how this is working for you. I love feedback and constructive input. If you've got something that works for you, please do share it.

HAPPY CREATING!

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Peaks and Valleys

2011-02-26T17:35:00.000-08:00

Life has a way of waking us up out of our complacency through peaks and valleys that represent the times of our lives. Good times and bad times, even those uneventful times, plodding through each day without a thought or a prayer. And sometimes life just plain kicks your ass and knocks the air out of you with the shocking unexpected .

The untimely passing of my brother, only 50 years old, was that shocking unexpected event. It surely knocked the wind out of everyone around him, but he was always surprising everyone he knew. Disappearing for weeks on end on an unannounced camping excursion in the mountains, or presenting us with treasures he unearthed from the desert, and sometimes panning for gold, yielding just a few grains, but the adventure was what he enjoyed most. So I firmly believe that he is on the grandest adventure of his short life and I will be there one day to share his excitement once again.

In the meantime, here's to you Bryan, trickster extraordinaire, appreciator of natural beauty, and lover of a good brew, we have a bond that will not be broken.

Moonglow and Ribbons

2010-11-27T19:59:00.000-08:00

I find myself more and more drawn to metalsmithing these days. I love to pound and smash metal, torch it to a deep red glow, then wait for the results. Sometimes the metal performs to your will, sometimes it defies explanation, but it's always a satisfying experience...

A touch of ribbon adds softness...

A little moonglow...

Little cups o' torch-fired copper...

Happy Creating!

Painting With Fire Reveal

2010-11-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of working with Melissa Meman's enameled beads for the PWF enameled bead swap. Melissa sent me some awesome beads which I used in an Autumn Harvest bracelet. I affixed her beautiful enameled turning leaf onto my copper oval disk and turned the rest of Melissa's beads into a bracelet with copper wire wraps and fibers. I think the fibers add a soft touch to the copper.

If you haven't discovered Barbara Lewis's site Painting With Fire, check it out and join, you will be amazed at all the talent gathered there. Thanks Melissa for the beautiful beads, I sure enjoyed creating with them!

Autumn in Las Vegas...It's Still Green!

2010-11-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's still summer here in Vegas with green lawns, green trees, and highs in the 80's. I predict a "no fall zone" and an unexpected cold snap in the near future, causing hundreds, if not thousands of people running to the local Burlington Coat Factory in search of down coats to keep that arctic chill of 55 degrees at bay. Yes, I will be one of them because 55 in Vegas is akin to 20 below in Alaska, I kid you not. It's because our blood is so thin by summer's end that any negative change in temperature causes fireplaces to be lit and bonfires to be danced around in backyard patios across town, whilst sipping spiked hot chocolate with fluffy, melting marshmallows.

Look, even Frosty the Snowman is freezing his garbonzos off...someone plug in those lights so he can warm up, dag nabbit!

So, here is my Ode to Autumn in the form of heat patinaed copper clouds and Mexican Fire Opal, catching those last rays of sunshine.

Have a lovely Autumn weekend, wherever you are!

It's Like a Frosty Limeade

2010-10-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

Ta da! I finished my druzy and sterling silver knuckle-buster...I think I have to register it as a deadly weapon! When I first gazed upon this sugary, minty-lime agate druzy, I thought of flames dancing and cavorting around the stone, but not the hot kind. I envisioned the icy flames of winter that pierce your very core, the kind you yearn for in the searing heat of a barren desert summer. After sketching several designs, I liked this asymmetrical look.

In keeping with that frosty chill, I textured the back plate with a stone finish and left the silver shiny. It measures 2 1/2" x 1 1/4" and is incredibly comfortable.

New adventures, new horizons, new designs... life is good!

A Little Something from the Polymer Clay Table and More...

2010-10-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

I still love to play with clay in spite of my new found love of metalsmithing. I do enjoy the squeezing, rolling, mixing, forming, and cutting out clay designs, and then decorating with pretty colors...a lot like baking cookies, yes?

One of my favorite flowers, the Thistle, in warm rosy Autumn colors.

A very vintage-looking floral design in winter white and deep mauve.

And enameling...instant gratification for color junkies. Must create more enameled pieces, and the weather is finally cooperating for all that hot torch work. All three up for sale in my Etsy shop!

In class I am currently working on a rather large ring featuring a green druzy agate and a sterling silver back plate of flames...hope to be finished by the week's end! Have a great creative weekend!

Rain Dance

2010-09-02T14:49:00.000-07:00

This desert dweller is dreaming of rain, bursting clouds full of life-giving moisture to quench this parched land, deafening thunder music to my ears, lightning strikes to send a thrill of excitement down my spine. Dreams and dances have not brought the needle sharp torrents, but I have created my own little thundercloud ready to burst with a sprinkle of watercolored gems!

I created this brooch by sawing sterling silver sheet metal into cloud shapes, then hammering different textures onto the metal to impart a feeling of sprinkling rain. After soldering the clouds together, I then antiqued the silver with liver of sulfur gel for a steely gray, cloudy look. The wire wrapped water-colored gems also remind me of rain droplets: kyanite, apatite, rainbow moonstone, frosty aquamarine, and glowing labradorite.

I designed this piece to be worn as a necklace as well. Maybe if I dance a little jig in my backyard whilst wearing this talisman, the thunderheads will roll in and give my roses a refreshing drink and a rainbow to enjoy. Come rain, come!

She Watches the Sea

2010-08-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have finally succumbed to the siren song of semi-precious gemstones. How I love the varied facets, the deep inner fire and chatoyancy. Yes, I am easily distracted by sparkly things! And easily distracted by new cool tools, like my new stamping set in a whimsical font. So, I am playing around with different styles and combining gemstones with my metalwork...new works on the horizon.

The sea necklace consists of a cluster of water colored gems: aquamarine, labradorite, and moonstone. I added a plump (plump is good in this case!) pearl and silver starfish for a beach feel. You may notice my stamping is awry, but I purposely scattered the letters as if the tide were splashing in and washing away the words in the sand. The little hammered circles represent the sea spray.

The peridot necklace is just a fun, dangly necklace for everyday wear. I enjoyed torching those headpins. I will post these two sparklies on my Etsy shop later today...back to the hammer and anvil!

Stringing Fall Blog Carnival!

2010-08-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

The very lovely and talented Michelle Mach, former editor of Beading Daily, has sparked a new idea for Stringing Magazine contributors! This is a first in a series of quarterly blogs in which each contributor discusses the inspiration behind their published jewelry pieces. There will be prizes as well! Blog readers who leave a comment will be entered into a drawing and Michelle will give away a copy of the Fall Stringing Magazine, plus, there may be more prizes, so be sure to leave a comment, and don't forget to visit all the contributors!

My Fall Stringing piece is called "Incredible Things" and the inspiration is the handforged copper and sterling silver focal by Cindy Pack of CasBeads. I bought this focal from her Etsy shop about two years ago and in my typical behavior, I hoarded the beautiful pendant, bringing it out into the light of day to gaze upon its unique beauty once in a while, not really knowing what fate intended until I began thinking about what feeling I wanted to convey in my Fall Stringing submission piece.

Fall is my favorite season, and it has always brought me a sense of renewal and new beginnings, like starting school and making new friends, embarking upon a new spiritual and temporal adventure, even though traditionally, Autumn brings a sense of calm, a slowing down in pace, gathering in the harvest in anticipation of the bitter cold of winter ahead.

Being an English teacher, I began thinking about Demeter, the bountiful Greek goddess of the harvest. Being a goddess is hard work, as I'm sure you know! It takes strength to battle Zeus, and feminine softness to appeal to his gentler demeanor. That's how "Incredible Things" came about. I chose the strength and durability of Cindy's copper and sterling silver focal and copper chain, then married that strength to soft white and pink vintage beads, along with a beautiful pink floral lampwork lentil from Joyce O'Shea. Women possess a strength and power unlike any other, and a softness and nurturing gentleness that everyone desires to be near. She Can Do Incredible Things!

http://www.kellyangeleybeadologie.blogspot.com/

http://simplyseablimejewelry.blogspot.com/

http://www.rubybayan.com/rubybeads/

http://www.michellemach.com/blog/index.php?/archives/136-Carrie-Beckwiths-Sunburst-Necklace.html

http://www.earthenwood-beads.blogspot.com/

http://gaeabeads.blogspot.com/

http://lorelei1141.blogspot.com/

http://artfulbeadstudio.blogspot.com/

http://hintjewelry.blogspot.com/

http://lucidmoonstudio.blogspot.com/

http://michellemach.com/blog/index.php?/archives/140-Stephanie-LaRosas-Cornucopia-and-Afternoon-Social-Necklaces.html

http://deniseyezbakmoore.blogspot.com/

http://www.silverparrotdesigns.blogspot.com/

http://michellemach.com/blog/index.php?/archives/139-Anne-Perrys-Woodsy-Owl-and-California-Bungalow.html

http://lucidmoonstudio.blogspot.com/

http://treasures-found.blogspot.com/

http://www.michellemach.com/blog/index.php?/archives/137-Erin-Strothers-Smoke-Cognac-and-Mixed-Metaphor-Necklaces.html

http://www.michellemach.com/blog/index.php?/archives/141-Molly-Schaller-The-Bamboo-Cutters-Wife-Dandelion-Hahttp://peacockfairy.blogspot.com/rvest.html

http://jenjuddrocks.blogspot.com/

http://www.zbeadz.com/

AWOL

2010-08-05T23:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's been quite a while since I last posted and some of you are inquiring of my whereabouts...let's just say it's been a wild and craaazy July full of twists and turns and rollercoaster rides but I survived and I'm back and gearing up for more creations. So, while creating has been on the back burner of late, I am posting shots of my four college class jewelry projects...I know, I know, you've seen them before but a bona fide visual arts professor took pictures of our projects the last day of class and dang, he made my pieces look fabulous! So, here they are and here's hoping I get back in the groove tout de suite!

COPPER VESSEL WITH HEAT PATINA

REPOUSSE LEAF IN COPPER

HOLLOW FORM/CHASING FRONT

HOLLOW FORM REVERSE

STERLING SILVER LOST WAX CASTING PENDANT

What the Heck is That? or, Adventures in Lost Wax Casting!

2010-07-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

Here is my most complex piece yet, a sterling silver blossom with stem, cast in wax, and boy was it an adventure! First, I cut all components from thin, pliable wax and then sculpted the blossom using a scalpel instrument heated over an alcohol lamp to adhere the pieces together. Next came the fun part, building a base and structural rods from wax wire to support the blossom.

Then, the piece went into a cannister, filled with a plaster of paris substance, kiln fired for three hours, removed from kiln while still hot. Almost two ounces of silver casting grains were melted in a crucible and then poured into the upside down cannister whereby the wax is melted away and the silver takes its structural form. Whew! Lastly, I slowly lowered the molten hot cannister with a giant set of tongs into a cold water bath were lots of sizzling and hissing took place.

But wait, there's more! Washed off the plaster from the blossom, and here I am now, trying to saw off those spindle supports and the base (called sprue) in time for class tomorrow in order to begin filing and polishing to a bright, shiny, silver glow. The blossom will be transformed into a pendant hanging from the little curve on them stem's tip. I only have two more weeks of class, so I better get sawing! Happy Creating!

News Flash!!! My friend and fellow Las Vegan, Heather Pyle, is having a giveaway for cool earrings on her blog and the deadline is today, so check it out!

Bead Soup Reveal!

2010-06-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

Bead Soup Ingredients from the talented Valerie Horton of Hot Glass:

Here is the finished Bead Soup!

I decided to go with an earthy tribal feel with rustic brass links; wire wrapped onto a wire arc on which I placed Valerie's ingredients. I hope I did justice to her glowing dichroic glass pendant!

Have fun cruising all the Bead Soup Party Participants, just click on the pic!

What I Made in School This Week...

2010-06-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

I think you all know that I've been taking metalsmithing classes, and this summer is no exception. I enrolled in the six week long intensive summer session and tomorrow is the three week mark--it's already half over and I have two more projects to complete. My first assigned project is a hollow form sterling silver pendant with botanical stamping, three flower stems, and a flourish of apatite and aquamarine stones. I wanted the pendant to possess an antique feel, as if my Grandmother had passed the treasure on to me, but also wanted a bit of a modern, bold feel as well. Hence, the gunmetal chain from Ornamentea. I also created a toggle bar, and carved a heart on the reverse.

My second assigned project is a vessel made of 18 gauge copper sheet. I drew the flames on the metal and sawed the pattern, which only took 5 hours and about 15 saw blades! I then pounded the heck out of it with a rawhide mallet on the steel stake until the bowl shape took form. Then, on to the flex shaft for polishing, which was quite tricky around the flames...never have a knee-jerk reaction with the foot pedal or you'll have flying debris everywhere!

The last step was gingerly toasting the bowl with torch flame until the desired patina took effect, which turned out an outrageous fuschia and tangerine orange! The flame god was with me yesterday!

That's it for now, two more projects to go! I feel so blessed to have been able to attend these classes which have broadened my knowledge base and given me a new creative outlet. My professor is awesome and the students of all ages are so inspirational as well. We have bonded and consider ourselves a creative family, exploring new territories and helping each other on this soulful journey. Have a blessed and creative week!

It's Here!

2010-06-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

The new Stringing Magazine summer issue is out and it's a beauty! So many luscious designs to drool over and covet! Coveting is okay in this case, right? I'm certainly going to make a couple for myself to wear this season. Here is my contribution to the summer treats, Enchanted Pathway.

I hope you all enjoy the new Stringing Magazine and create some stunning jewelry to show off your lovely summer tan!

June ABS Carnival Blog Statement Necklace

2010-06-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just a little eye candy for the June ABS Carnival Blog. Cindy Gimbrone challenged the ABS Carnival Bloggers to create a statement necklace for June. I created this a while ago when statement necklaces were coming into vogue. I decided to show off Dianne Woodall's spectacular oceanic lampwork bead by working it into this sculptural and colorful wire necklace. It's a tribute to summer and the ocean's joys and discoveries. Enjoy your June and all the links!

Cindy Dolezal Designs Blog
Cindy Gimbrone
Islandgirl's Insites
Jeannie's Blog
Jen Velasquez
Kate Clawson
Mary Harding
Nicki's Reef

Bead Soup

2010-05-31T12:35:00.000-07:00

I received my Bead Soup Party ingredients from my crafty partner, Valerie Norton! She sent me a luminous handcrafted dichroic glass pendant along with pretty ruby red glass beads, Swarovski crystals, and various yummy beads to play with. Be sure to visit Valerie's blog to see the ingredients I sent her! Happy Beading!

ABS Carnival Blogger: To Grow or Not to Grow...

2010-05-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

That is the eternal question! The ABS Carnival Bloggers theme for April is Growth and it can be a painful process of self-discovery. I confess, I had grown fond of my comfort zone creating polymer clay beads. I was finally getting the hang of it, the beads were looking pretty good and I even had some published in jewelry magazines. I love polymer clay and will always create with it because of its astounding versatility. But was I missing out on something more challenging? Something I was afraid of exploring for the fear of failure? Oh, yes.

I have metalsmith envy. All those complicated tools and contraptions just to bend metal into pleasing shapes. Vises, rolling mills, bracelet mandrels, hammers, drill presses, and the dreaded three ton metal cutter lurking outside in the dark gloom of swirling fog (or is that fire and brimstone?) enveloping its hulking form outside of the classroom. Oh wait, there are rows upon rows of acetylene and oxygen torches just waiting to explode, and pickle pots and kilns, oh my! How do they do it? It was an enticing mystery. The fear and trembling was strangely intoxicating, mingling with the sensation of promises of good things to come. So I took the plunge into dark waters, transforming my envy into something tangible.

Of course I was afraid of failing in this new venture, but who isn't? I signed up for a full semester course of metalsmithing 101. It's been a long four months but how I have grown, not only as an artist, but as a student accepting criticism and priceless instruction in the metal arts. I sawed and filed and hammered and torched and in doing so, made so many new and lasting friends. My work changed dramatically over the semester from flat, one dimensional pieces, to three dimensional art. My metalsmith envy grew into a healthy respect of artists who devote themselves to the never-ending possibilities of growth in their field, and their patience and giving nature with greenhorns, such as myself.

Today was my final class which included a class community potluck lunch, and personal exit interviews with our Professor, Joanne Vuillamot. We discussed my progress and I was told that I have the methods down pat and now it's time to concentrate on my design sensibility. I registered for the intensive five week Metalsmithing II summer session. Am I nervous? Oh, yes. Change through growth is again looming over the horizon and I am expected to blossom further as a potential metalsmith, but that's okay. The growth potential keeps me rising every morning with expectations beyond my current ability, but that is what growth is all about, don't you agree?

At Long Last...

2010-04-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

So I've been working hard at my metals class learning to solder, form metal around a bracelet mandrel, and set stones. I also created a few more enameled pieces. I am very happy with my hammered copper cuff. I think I may set a Leopard Jasper stone on the widest part with sterling silver, but we shall see!

I don't particularly like my first ring experience, I broke the stone's tip and pushed the scalloped bezel in too far toward the stone. I still have to polish the silver so that might spruce it up a bit!

Remember the layered copper flower? Well, I went enamel crazy on it and this is what happened...my professor was not too pleased!

And now a few new enamel pieces. I love the opalescent effect on the emerald focal and plan on experimenting with other effects.

A new pair of earrings, perhaps?

Have a creative weekend, everyone!

Winner!

2010-04-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Thank you, lovely and talented ladies, for playing along and your encouraging birthday words and support! You gals rock!

The winner of the Chickadee and egg beads is Riki Shumacher! Congratulations, Riki! Please send me your address at sharonpalac@yahoo.com

I used the Random Number Generator and the number is 37 out of 57 which includes all the extra chances to win. Thanks again!

It's My Birthday!

2010-03-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm 39 again, and again, and again! So in honor of my getting younger every year, I'm having a giveaway! You can leave a comment, follow, or Tweet/Facebook if you'd like extra chances to win. The prize is a cute polymer Chickadee bead and two sweet Robin eggs. I will draw the lucky winner at 10:00 AM Monday, April 5.

Now I'm off to the kitchen to watch Walter cook my birthday dinner! I do love a man who knows his way around the kitchen!

Further Enamel Explorations

2010-03-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

I've been playing with fire again and noticing that melting enamel is a zen-like experience. The harder I tried the less progress I was making. I just let go and watched the flame perform its magic. The flame is mesmerizing to watch, and the enamel's reaction to the flame very mysterious, for it never reacts the same way twice. Now I listen to my intuition, watching the enamel melting and flowing into fiery pools, knowing when to add more flame, or draw back just a bit. Not that I'm an expert, far from it! I read that enameling takes one minute to learn and a lifetime to master!

I am having trouble with counter-enameling. The enamel just doesn't want to co-operate! Here is an example of counter-enameling on the left, not so pretty, eh? I really do like the plain copper back, but counter-enameling would render a more finished piece. I researched further and found that Golden Clear enamel sets a good base for counter enameling, so I am waiting for my order to arrive.

I have to admit I really am fond of these pieces, I love the rustic look and the black edges tend to add an interesting dimension. So much to learn, practice, and accomplish in this lifetime; I am surely enjoying the journey!

What I Made in Class This Week...and More

2010-03-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

My metals class has been focusing on soldering shapes together. Last week we practiced and this week we made our final piece for critique. I sawed, hammered, and soldered three layers of copper to form a flower with thorns. It has yet to be completed, I still have to solder a few silver balls for stamen, and I'm also thinking of torching it a red patina, although fire patina's are unpredictable so I may end up with a purply-blue color! I stil haven't decided if this should be a ring, soldered onto a cuff bracelet, or a pendant. What do you think?

In other adventures, I'm using all my enamaling pieces for jewelry and have to make more! The fire bug has struck!

Enamored with Enamels!

2010-03-09T13:28:00.000-08:00

I finally made some time to create with my new enameled copper pieces from the Richard Salley class I attended. First, my enameled heart/leaf with hammered copper swirls, which was inspired by a necklace in the new Step by Step Wire magazine! I joined the swirls with tendril-like sterling silver coils and copper links. It's adjustable to accomodate various necklines.

Secondly, my Earth bracelet joining an enameled link to vintage beads and hammered copper swirls. And last, Earth earrings with sterling silver earwiresand spirals. I named these pieces "Earth" because the colors remind me of the earth view from space. All three pieces are available in my Etsy shop this afternoon!

I just love the way enamels can be combined to create a personalized and unique color pallete for copper beads. I am sure you heard the good news about Barbara Lewis's new enameling book? She's working on it now and I can't wait to see it and learn new techniques!

Christine Damm and Friends

2010-03-03T18:07:00.000-08:00

Christine Damm's sister-in-law Vila has been diagnosed with leukemia and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. In an act of kindness and love, Christine is creating a charm bracelet for Vila to remind her how much she is loved and valued and would like us to participate with her in creating charms for Vila's bracelet. If you would like to be involved in this special project, please read Christine's blog for specific information.

As a token of appreciation, Christine is having a drawing for three incredible handcrafted prizes. Vila will surely be surprised and heartened at all the love and support she really has!

Passion at Play ~ ABS Carnival Blog

2010-03-02T11:38:00.000-08:00

What comes to mind when you hear the word "passion"? A fiery romantic liason? Righteous anger? Passion denotes an intense, driving need or devotion to an object or activity. The day I found my passion was when I was confronted with a spool of unruly wire and a few wicked looking tools sporting very sharp points! I was a fumble fingers during my first and only wire wrapping class. I dropped my tools, nearly poked my eye out with wire, jabbed my index finger, then went home with a few paltry findings. My defeat by wire grew into a desire to master it, to coil and bend it to my will.

From that desire to wire wrap soon blossomed another passion: beadmaking. I needed to create the beads I hung from tamed wire! Soon, my passion became playtime with colorful polymer clay and its infinite incarnations. My passion grew to embrace my latest obsession: torch enameling. One passion ignites a flame that may cause a veritable forest fire of creativity if you allow your mind to travel unexplored territory! Fuel your creative passion by attending art retreats, local bead shop classes, or play with like minded friends.

Fanning the flames of desire to create from nothing but a few pieces of clay, metal, and wire and transform them into objects of beauty with hopes that others find it beautiful as well is the end result of creative passion. We want to share our object of affection to be accepted by others and quite possibly inspire as well. If it were not for other talented artisans, my passion may not have reached this level of playfulness and exploration, so thank you, fellow artisans, for sharing your passion at play!

Bernz-O-Matic, Oh How I Love Thee!

2010-02-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

Enameling is sooo much fun, it should be illegal! Thank goodness it isn't because I had a blast yesterday in Richard Salley's class. Richard made everything so easy and his teaching style is laid back but very informative and covered much more than enameling, like sawing, soldering, and riveting. I created several hearts pendants, earring pairs, and bracelet components, a la Barbara Lewis, who got me in this enameling craze in the first place!

Everyone was so excited with enameling because it's instant gratification, and the Bernz-O-Matic torches are very easy to use~ no one caught themselves on fire! I made more new friends and I'm very impressed with the friendliness and sense of community spirit amongst the Art and Soul attendees and teachers alike. I will definitely attend again next year!

I also appreciate the fact that there was a Art and Soul Cottage Craft supply shop with everything you would need for classes and more. They even had a Divorce Prevention Sale yesterday for all of us big spenders, you know what I mean, don't you, ladies?

Art and Soul!

2010-02-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

I had such an amazing experience taking Lisa Kaus' multi-media painting class, Color Your World at the Art and Soul retreat held here in Las Vegas. Lisa is so very talented and a joy to be with! She is very thorough in her instructions and generous with her time and talent. I learned so much from her and plan on painting more pieces in the future. Here is Lisa in action applying hot beeswax to a painting!

And here is my little work of art. You know me and my fascination with trees!

And here are the lovely ladies who participated in the Art and Soul Alice in Wonderland Tea Party Fashion Show on Sunday, aren't they the cutest?

I made some great new friends and tomorrow brings a new class with Richard Salley: Enameling 101. Wish me bon chance!

Barbara Lewis: Painting with Fire Artwear!

2010-02-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

The lovely and talented lady behind these gorgeous flame torched enamel beads is having a giveaway to celebrate her new blog, Painting With Fire! Check out the bead sets and follow her blog to win!

Drum Roll, Please!

2010-02-15T14:32:00.000-08:00

I used the True Random Number Generator and the lucky winner is #159, Birgit from Munich! Congratulations Birgit, you won my Hard Candy bracelet!! Please visit Birgit's awesome blog, Swapping Howdies.

Thanks to everyone who flew in on their magic carpets. I have made new friends, discovered fabulous blogs, and learned so much on my continental flight!

Fanning the Flames of Love!

2010-02-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

They say love is blind, but Cupid's aim is always true! Wishing you all a very special Valentine's Day and watch out for those arrows!

What I Made in School This Week...

2010-02-12T11:55:00.000-08:00

I began a semester long college metalsmithing course two weeks ago and it has truly been an enlightening experience. Little did I know just how time consuming and precise one's work must be in order to execute a decent looking piece! After breaking many, many saw blades I finally created this ocean wave. The piercings represent fish and the hammered texture, bubbles. I also stamped "sea" and oxidized the pendant.

Let me tell you this was not easy! My right arm and shoulder ached from sawing and it took 4 class periods to finish! I possess a new respect for metalsmiths who are dedicated to their craft with such passion and precision.

Next week we are learning to solder and each one of us must create a layered ring, pendant, or bracelet. Hopefully with each new project my skill will increase and I am looking forward to that! Happy creating!

Soup Party Serving!

2010-02-10T08:37:00.000-08:00

When I saw Whitney's bright orange beads and the silver clasp and findings, I envisioned turqouise rounds joining the mix for rustic cowgirl fare. When a cowgirl is roping doggies or barrel racing, can she see her pretty necklace? No, but she can gaze upon her inspirational bracelet in between lasooing those greased pigs!

I combined two turqouise rounds with Whitney's orange lampwork and roped everything up with tan suede leather and lightly oxidized copper for a chic Western look. Yee haw, Whitney!

Please stop by Lori's blog and see what the chef's have been up to!

One World One Heart Blog Extravaganza

2010-01-31T21:05:00.000-08:00

This is a first for me since I've been blogging for less than a year, but the bloginista extrordianaire Lisa Swifka, creator of One World One Heart, is once again hosting this worldwide giveaway event.

It gives us a chance to discover and connect with other bloggers and artists around the world.

Every blogger who participates hosts a giveaway on their blog. This giveaway is open to anyone who blogs! Don't be shy! The rules are to post only one comment for my giveaway and have a blog address I can link back to, or leave an email address so I can contact you should you win. It's as easy as taking a Magic Carpet Ride! This event ends February 15, so If you'd like to participate in a giveaway of your own, check out Lisa Swifka's blog and read all about it!

The prize I'm offering is my Hard Candy lampwork and copper/sterling chainmaille bracelet. You've got to look good whilst riding your magic carpet, right?

I am looking forward to reading your posts and discovering your blogs!

Harbinger of Spring

2010-01-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I could use some spring daffodils bowing their heads gracefully in the warming breeze, and robin red-breast singing his sweet song in the early 'morn, and lambs grazing in the green meadow! Maybe not so much rain? How about some lovely new jewelry designs?

And now for some much needed color and inspiration, the upcoming Spring issue of Stringing! Doesn't that cover look enticing and cheerful, blooming with beautiful ideas for your spring jewelry wardrobe? Can't wait to receive my copy!

*********************************************************************************

Awaiting Spring would not be complete without this beautiful poem written by Anne Finch, a British poet, dating around 1706. Don't worry, no pop quizzes here!

Exert thy voyce, sweet Harbinger of Spring: To the Nightingale.

by Anne Finch

Exert thy Voyce, sweet Harbinger of Spring,
This moment, is thy time to Sing:
This moment, I attend to praise,

And sett my numbers to thy Layes;

Free, as thine, shall be my Song,

As thy Tune, concise, or long;

If, thou Repetition try,

Verse redoubl'd shall reply;

Poets, wild as thee were born,

Pleasing best, when unconfind,

When to please is least dessign'd,

Soothing but their cares to rest,

(Cares do still their thoughts molest)

And still the anxious Poets breast

Like thine, when best he sings, is plac'd against a Thorn.

She begins, lett all be still.

Muse, thy promise, now, fulfill.

Sweet, oh! sweet, still sweeter yett,

Can thy words such accents hitt?

Can'st thou Syllables refine,

Melt a sense, which shall retain

till some spirit of the brain,

'Till with sounds like these, itt joyn?

'Twill not be; then change thy Noat,

Let division shake thy Throat,

Hark! division now she tries,

Yet, as far the Muse outflies,
Prythee, cease, then cease thy Tune,

Trifler, wilt thou sing 'till June,

'Till thy business all lyes waste,

And the time of Building's past,

Hiding thus, in night, thy head,

Sure, thou'rt to some Faction wed,

Or to false opinions bred.

Thus, we poets, that have speech,

(Far from what thy forests teach)

If a fluent vein be shown,

But transcendent to our own, --

Criticise, reform, or preach,

Or censure, what we cannot reach

The Soup

2010-01-22T11:45:00.000-08:00

Here are the beads Whitney Lassini sent me. I like the orange colors, so bright and cheery for this dreary time of year! I have something in mind with oxidized copper links mimicking the swirls in the focal bead.

As for me, I forgot to take a picture of the soup ingredients I sent with the Forest Oracle Dryad bead (see last post) I made for Whitney. She will have the honor of posting the big "reveal" pics on her blog!

The Spring Frost and Twilight Dryad beads are up for sale in my Etsy shop, do take a peek! Happy Creating, everyone!

Which Tree Shall It Be?

2010-01-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

I created three new Dryad focals this weekend and sent one off to Whitney Lassini, my Bead Soup Party partner. Hmmnnn, which one could it be? The Spring Frost focal with lots of icy patina and a hint of flowers, the rather flamboyant Forest Oracle bead with its mysterious orbs, or the steadfast Twilight dryad?

Stay tuned, dear readers, and the mystery shall be revealed along with my secret bead soup recipe...Bon Apetit!

My Bead Party Partner!

2010-01-12T14:11:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy to be partnered with the lovely and talented lampwork artist Whitney Lassini. Whitney creates fabulous lampwork beads that I am drooling over! Check out Whitney's Etsy shop and see what I'm talking about. Now I have to get to work creating a special Dryad bead just for Whitney!

Bead Soup Party!

2010-01-02T12:21:00.000-08:00

To start the New Year with a creative bang, Lori Anderson is having a Bead Soup Party and you're invited! Read all the details and see who's participating on Lori's blog. This is going to be fun!

Blue Moon, you saw me standing alone...

2009-12-31T09:46:00.000-08:00

"Once in a blue moon." Here is a quick and dirty pseudo-scientific explanation about the blue moon we will observe on the eve of the New Year. Lest you think I wrote this, I actually filched it from About.com!
I wish you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year filled with good surprises, new discoveries, and a renewed creativity in your chosen art form. Nostrovia!

You have probably heard this expression before. It usually means not very often. But, is there really such a thing? Well, yes, but it’s probably not what you may think, and it’s definitely not what it used to be.

According to David Wilton’s fabulous Word Origins web site, the phrase Blue Moon probably started with an anonymous poem from 1528, Read me and be not wrothe, For I say no things but truth:

"If they say the moon is blue,

"We must believe that it is true."

Calling the moon blue was an obvious absurdity, like saying it was made of green cheese. The phrase, “until a blue moon” developed in the 19th century, meaning never, or at least extremely unlikely. After all, they do occur.

In 1883, an Indonesian volcano named Krakatoa exploded. Scientists liken the blast to a 100-megaton nuclear bomb. Fully 600 km away, people heard the noise as loud as a cannon shot. Plumes of ash rose to the very top of Earth's atmosphere. And the moon turned blue.

Krakatoa's ash was the reason. Some of the ash-clouds were filled with particles about 1 micron (one millionth of a meter) wide--the right size to strongly scatter red light, while allowing other colors to pass. White moonbeams shining through the clouds emerged blue, and sometimes green.

Blue moons persisted for years after the eruption. People also saw lavender suns and, for the first time, noctilucent clouds. The ash caused "such vivid red sunsets that fire engines were called out in New York, Poughkeepsie, and New Haven to quench the apparent conflagration," according to volcanologist Scott Rowland at the University of Hawaii.

Other less potent volcanos have turned the moon blue, too. People saw blue moons in 1983, for instance, after the eruption of the El Chichon volcano in Mexico. And there are reports of some caused by Mt. St. Helens in 1980 and Mount Pinatubo in 1991.

The key to a blue moon is having in the air lots of particles slightly wider than the wavelength of red light (0.7 micron)--and no other sizes present. This is rare, but volcanoes sometimes spit out such clouds, as do forest fires.

The use of the phrase blue moon to indicate an actual astronomical phenomenon first started in 1932 with the Maine Farmer’s Almanac. It’s definition was a season with four full moons rather than the usual three, where the third of four full moons would be called a "blue moon." Since seasons are established by the equinoxes and solstices and not calendar months, it is possible for a year to have twelve full moons, one each month, yet have one season with four.

That definition mutated into the one most quoted today when in 1946, an article in an astronomy magazine by amateur astronomer James Hugh Pruett misinterpreted the Maine rule to mean two full moons in one month. This definition seems to have stuck, despite its error, possibly thanks to being picked up by the Trivial Pursuit game. As we’ve seen previously, as in the case of seeing the Great Wall of China from space, the writers of Trivial Pursuit are capable of making errors.

Whether you use the newer definition or the one from the Maine Farmer’s Almanac, a blue moon, while not common, happens on a regular basis. Either way, they occur approximately 7 times in a 19 year period.

Much less common is a double blue moon (2 in one year). That only happens once in the same 19 year period. They occur in January and March, thanks to the short month, February. The last double we saw was in 1999. The next will happen in 2018.

So, will you ever see a blue moon? In astronomical terms, it is very likely. If you hope to see a full moon which is the actual color blue, that is less likely, but possible, especially during forest fire season. But, if you don’t want to do something, don’t put it off until a blue moon. You may be at it sooner than you’d like.

Merry Christmas to All...

2009-12-24T21:46:00.000-08:00

...and to all, a good night! In the midst of decorating our tree, one of Santa's reindeer paid us a special visit from Ireland with goodies from Sanda! A beautifully hand crafted Christmas card, a jolly Old Saint Nick tag, and hanging from the mysterious reindeer's saddle, a lovely heart and pine cone ornament!

I grabbed my camera before the reindeer flew off and took this quick picture. Thank you dear friend Sanda for making my Christmas even more special! And thanks to all my blog friends around the country and the world, you've made this a memorable year with your treasured friendships. A most blessed Christmas and very healthy and Happy New Year to you all!

Calling All Animal Lovers!

2009-12-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

Hello all you animal lovers!

The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily so they can meet their quota of getting FREE FOOD donated every day to abused and neglected animals. It takes less than a minute (about 15 seconds) to go to their site and click on the purple box 'fund food for animals for free'. This doesn't cost you a thing.

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising.

Here's the website! Please pass it along to people you know. I also added the website to my blog roll so you can click away!

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/

You can also click on the other tabs - for instance, giving a free mammogram!

My Latest Obssession...

2009-12-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

Last month it was spirals, this month it's trees! Each Dryad respresents a season, clockwise from the top is Winter, Fall, Summer, and Spring. I am so enjoying this process of discovery and creativity. I realized that I am following Cynthia Thorton's advice from her art book, Enchanted Adornments. She advises to create art jewelry expressing your passion, to take note of your surroundings such as nature, and transform that passion into wearable art. Each piece that you create is imbued with your spirit, your essence. Your passion is embodied in your art, and that is something that defies time and space.

Joseph Campbell also gave us invaluable advice, to be true to yourself, "to follow your bliss". Here is an excerpt from an interview:

BILL MOYERS: Do you ever have the sense of... being helped by hidden hands?

JOSEPH CAMPBELL: All the time. It is miraculous. I even have a superstition that has grown on me as a result of invisible hands coming all the time - namely, that if you do follow your bliss you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in your field of bliss, and they open doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don't be afraid, and doors will open where you didn't know they were going to be.

I look forward to my life long journey of self discovery and expressing my passions. My wish for you today is to find your passion and live the life you have dreamed of. Make yourself a miracle!

A Forest of Dryads

2009-11-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

I have a great fondness for trees and desired to express that fondness through my artistic voice. I am contemplating a series of polymer clay tree pendants representing the characteristics of Dryads. Dryads are mythological female spirits of nature, nymphs who preside over the groves and forests. Each one is born with a certain tree over which she watches.

Ovid's famous treasury of classical mythology, Metamorphoses, tells the story of Dryope, who was rooted into the ground upon plucking a flower from the Lotis tree. She slowly began to turn into a black poplar, the bark spreading up her legs from the earth, but just before the woody stiffness finally reached her throat and as her arms began sprouting twigs her husband Andraemon heard her cries and came to her. She had just enough time to warn her husband to take care of their child and make sure that he did not pick flowers.

A dryad either lives in a tree, in which case she is called a hamadryad, or close to it. The lives of the dryads are connected with that of the trees; should the tree perish, then she dies with it. If this is caused by a mortal, the gods will punish him for that deed. The dryads themselves will also punish any thoughtless mortal who would somehow injure, so beware of harming any trees! Perhaps Dryads were the very first "tree huggers" in history!

I created three pendants, an ancient wisdom tree, a young spring sapling, and an abstact tree. The fourth bead I impressed the limbs into the base bead. It looks more like Medusa than a tree, I'm afraid, and has since "metamorhised" into a ring! I am looking forward to researching and creating more Dryad beads!

A Tolkien Birthday

2009-11-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

It's the birthday of Christopher Reuel Tolkien (1924) born in Leeds, England. He's the youngest son of J.R.R. Tolkien, who wrote The Lord of the Rings, and he drew the original maps that appeared in his father's epic fantasy novel. In addition to synthesizing all that complicated information about the imaginary Middle Earth to draw up the illuminating maps, he was also his famous father's test audience.

It took J.R.R. Tolkien 12 years to write Lord of the Rings; during that time, Christopher was a teenager and in his 20s, and he constantly provided feedback for his dad's work in progress. Since his dad's death, he's edited and published a number of his manuscripts, including The Silmarillion in 1977, which he completed after years of sorting through and deciphering his father's handwritten notes. Between 1983 and 1996, Christopher Tolkien published a 12-volume work, The History of Middle-earth.

Courtesy The Writer's Almanac. Illustrations by Alan Lee.

Wintry Beads

2009-11-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, it's frosty cold here in Las Vegas with brisk northerly winds blowing around icy grey clouds. Finally, Old Man Winter is here! I created more spiral beads in honor of winter, the grey and white mimic cold winter skies and the caramel and white remind me of autumn leaves skidding across early frost-laden earth, or creme brulee, whichever you prefer! Have a perfect Sunday!

Bittersweet Memories

2009-11-13T11:24:00.000-08:00

This poem reminds me so much of my Grandpa who rose early every morning to prepare a hearty breakfast for the family beginning with my favorite grapefruit, which he always sectioned with care.

Grapefruit
by Ted McMahon

My grandfather got up early to section grapefruit.

I know because I got up quietly to watch.

He was tall. His hairless shins stuck out

below his bathrobe, down to leather slippers.

The house was quiet, sun just up, ticking of

the grandfather clock tall in the corner.

The grapefruit were always sectioned just so,

nestled in clear nubbled bowls used

for nothing else, with half a maraschino

centered bleeding slowly into

soft pale triangles of fruit.

It was special grapefruit, Indian River,

not to be had back home.

Doves cooed outside and the last night-breeze

rustled the palms against the eaves.

He turned to see me, pale light flashing

off his glasses

and smiled.

I remember as I work my knife along the

membrane separating sections.

It's dawn. The doves and palms are far away.

I don't use cherries anymore.

The clock is digital

and no one is watching.

"Grapefruit" by Ted McMahon, from The Uses of Imperfection. © Cat ‘n' Dog Production, 2003. Reprinted with permission. Courtesy of The Writer's Almanac

Desert Roses and an Award

2009-11-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

Sweet roses are still blooming in my backyard rose garden that Walter planted for me this past spring. One of my favorite morning rituals is inspecting the blooms and marvelling at the translucency of the petals; you can see the sunlight shining through near the pistils.

My lovely and talented friend Sanda bestowed upon me the Kreativ Blogger Award, thank you Sanda! Please visit her blog for a real treat! Here are seven facts that you probably don't know about me:

1. I want to become an opera singer! Wagner rocks.

2. I am a chocoholic. See's Candies is my chocolate of choice.

3. I like to read in bed under the covers while my husband snores.

4. I read all four Twilight novels. Don't tell anyone, especially my students who nagged me for months to read it.

5. I am kept company by a collection of Medieval dragons whilst I blog. No fires yet.

6. I strongly dislike reality shows!!!

7. I secretly desire to reside in Rivendell with the elves, preferably as an opera singing elf.

Here are the seven bloggers I have chosen to receive the Kreativ Blogger Award:

http://mariesegal.blogspot.com/

http://sundownbeaddesigns.blogspot.com/

http://vintajia.blogspot.com/

http://lilibulle-illusions.blogspot.com/

http://beimondi-leslie.blogspot.com/

http://judithbdesigns.blogspot.com/

http://treasures-found.blogspot.com/

Now it's your turn to tell us seven secrets about yourselves!

You Are Getting Very Sleepy...

2009-11-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, look into my spirals...My husband thought they were cookies and so did the dogs! These are fresh out of the oven, unsanded and unbuffed. I like the color effects in the large spirals, the smaller ones have less blue and white even though they all came from the same colorway recipe. That's what I love about polymer clay, there are always colorful surprises! These will be in my Etsy shop tomorrow. Enjoy your Sunday!

All Saints Day

2009-11-01T09:12:00.000-08:00

A Prayer for Saintly Grace

Almighty and Everlasting God,who dost enkindle the flame of Thy love in the hearts of the saints, grant unto us the same faith and power of love; that, as we rejoice in their triumphs we may profit by their examples, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Gothic Missal

Happy Hallow'een from Goodwitch Sharon!

2009-10-31T09:05:00.001-07:00

It's Halloween, one of the oldest holidays in the Western European tradition, invented by the Celts, who believed Halloween was the day of the year when spirits, ghosts, faeries, and goblins walked the earth. The tradition of dressing up and getting candy probably started with the Celts as well. Historians believe that they dressed up as ghost and goblins to scare away the spirits, and they would put food and wine on their doorstep for the spirits of family members who had come back to visit the home. Click on the Hallow'een link above (or below) to read more about this ancient holiday on History.com!

PS That's Big Guy and Blitzen helping with the Jack O' Lantern carving! They're doing a darn good job, too!

A Beady Harvest

2009-10-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

I've been working my little fingers to the bone harvesting beads and this is my fruitful yield! I think I will call them "Aztec Beads" because the shape and colors remind me of Aztec art. First, my favorites, very earthy and rustic:

The second batch remind me of beautiful flaming red and orange Southwestern sunsets:

These are cool and refreshing blues of a brisk fall sky:

I am very pleased with the resulting texture and colors! These will be available in my Etsy shop later today. Have a wonderful Autumn day!

Sweet Cindy is a Cover Girl!

2009-10-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

The fabulously talented Cindy Wimmer's copper bracelet graces the newest Easy Wire Magazine cover! Cindy is celebrating her cover girl status by having a very generous giveaway. Visit her blog and leave a comment for a chance to win these awesome prizes, everything you need to create her Inspire bracelet! P.S. I'm in the magazine too!

Happy Birthday Oscar Wilde

2009-10-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

"I like talking to a brick wall, I find it is the only thing that never contradicts me."

It's the birthday of Irish writer Oscar Wilde, (books by this author) born Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, in Dublin (1854). His mom wrote Irish Nationalist poetry under an Italian pseudonym meaning "Hope," and his dad was a prestigious ear and eye surgeon who served Dublin's poor population. Oscar Wilde studied classics at Trinity College Dublin and got a scholarship to Oxford, where he became involved in the Aesthetic Movement. He grew his hair long and dressed unconventionally. He displayed peacock feathers and sunflowers in his dorm room. He professed a belief in art for art's sake. And he began to say a lot of witty things.

"Never trust a woman who tells you her real age;
a woman who tells you that would tell you anything."

He taught in London and then left for a lecture tour of North America. He'd been invited by the producer of Gilbert and Sullivan's new comic opera, Patience, a work that made fun of the Aesthetic Movement. The show had done well in New York City and was due to go on tour, but the producer wasn't sure if people around America would be familiar with the thing about which the opera was poking fun. The producer hoped Wilde's lectures would familiarize the nation with the Aesthetic Movement so that they'd all get the jokes in Patience, Gilbert and Sullivan's opera.
Twenty-seven-year-old Oscar Wilde arrived in New York in January 1882. He went to Pennsylvania, where he drank elderberry wine with Walt Whitman. He lectured to coal miners in Leadville, Colorado, where he saw a sign on a saloon that said, "Please do not shoot the pianist. He is doing his best," and called it "the only rational method of art criticism I have ever come across." He made stops in Boston, Topeka, Des Moines, Houston, St. Paul, San Francisco, and
dozens of other cities.

"Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative."

He returned to Europe, settled in London, and concentrated on his literary endeavors. He edited a magazine, The Woman's World. He had two children with his wife, Constance Lloyd Wilde. In 1891, he met 22-year-old Lord Alfred Douglas Ross, a poet from Oxford 16 years his junior.
In those few years after meeting Lord Alfred Douglas Ross, Oscar Wilde had the most productive period of his literary life. His only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, was published the year they met, 1891. He wrote his best and most popular plays: A Woman of No Importance (1893), An Ideal Husband (1895), and his masterpiece The Importance of Being Earnest (1895), the first draft of which only took him 21 days to compose. Most of his writings from that time span revolve around men leading double lives. (Courtesy of The Writer's Almanac)

"Beauty is a form of genius--is higher, indeed, than genius, as it needs no explanation.
It is of the great facts in the world like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in dark water of that silver shell we call the moon."

Autumn Birds and Butterflies

2009-10-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

Today I tried something new, ink transfers on polymer clay, and I'm hooked! I love the rich, deep colors achieved from the laser ink so I decided to make some autumn themed necklaces, especially after I oxidized every piece of copper in sight! I took the above picture outside in the dappled fall sunlight, so the colors are pretty saturated.

I transfered the nuthatch onto an oak leaf shaped bead and included an cute little acorn charm and an unusual colored jasper coin. The butterfly lighted on a Ginko leaf and is accompanied by two Swarovski crystals in topaz and pale yellow. I think the beads turned out pretty well for my first try!

Believe!

2009-10-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of talk in blog land about belief in ourselves and power to change the things we don't necessarily enjoy about ourselves. It takes courage and determination to change, sometimes it takes monumental effort just employ a new behaviour to replace the old one. It's a day to day commitment to grow in any direction you choose. And that's the essence of change: choice!

What direction do you choose to take today? I choose to believe that I am an artist who is growing every day through practice, the learning process (which never ends!) and encouragement from my family, friends, and my blogging pals who have cheered me on to persevere in my dream. I just created this bracelet and it's imperfect, just like me, but I choose to believe in my talent and this will be a reminder every time I look down at my wrist! Cindy Pack created the Believe link, isn't it lovely? I hope she makes more!

Green Goddess Dressing

2009-09-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

I named this predominately green stone, lampwork, and freshwater pearl wire wrapped necklace the "Green Goddess," invoking the ethereal feeling of earthiness and femininity, which to me embodies the essence of a goddess. I can visualize any of us mortal goddesses dressing ourselves in natural stones and pearls to enhance our beauty! We all learned about Greek Mythology in school and how mythology influenced great writers such as Ben Johnson and Shakespeare, who alluded to Greek and Roman gods and goddesses in their works. In modern psychology, Carl Jung believed that women are influenced by inner forces called archetypes, which are part of our collective unconscious. Which goddess are you? Take this goddess quiz to find out. I happen to be Artemis... who knew? Just a bit of fluffy fun for the weekend! That's me with the arrow...

Your Handy Dandy Goddess Guide:

*Athena: the Goddess of wisdom and also the goddess of crafts. She is a pragmatic thinker who can keep her head in an emotional situation. The Athena archetype is present in business women, college, professors, and other professions that rely on a woman's strategy to get ahead. Athena women seek the company of men as equals.

*Artemis: the Goddess of the hunt and goddess of the moon: she was the archer with perfect aim. Artemis is a back-to-nature woman; a sister; she belongs to no man. Artemis strongly represents achievement and competence, independence from men and male opinions, a passionate concern for powerless women and children, and for women experiencing childbirth.

*Hestia: Goddess of the hearth and Temple; Wise-women; Hestia is insightful, looking inward to intuitively sense what is going on. Hestia does not need to leave the home to find herself; she makes the home, a home. The Hestia archetype provides a woman with a sense of wholeness.

*Hera: Goddess of Marriage; her name means "Great Lady". Hera is committed to the role of wife, which brings both joy and sorrow into her life. Hera is The Commitment-Maker and infidelity in her marriage can cause Hera to be overtaken with jealous rage. Women who experience a pressing desire to get married are experiencing this archetype in their psyche.

*Demeter: Goddess of Grain, Nurturer, and Mother. Demeter was worshiped as the "Mother Goddess" and the mother of the maiden, Persephone. Demeter represents the maternal instinct; the archetype gives women the compelling desire to become pregnant. A Demeter woman needs to nurture and care for children, and finds great joy in preparing food for her family and her guests.

*Persephone: The queen of the Underworld and Maiden Goddess; worshiped as the "Kore" (young girl). The Goddess Persephone represents the duality of the child-woman. A woman who has difficulty committing to a relationship or work, or an educational goal is being influenced by Persephone. She never quite figures out what she wants to be when she grows up, but she also has the remarkable ability to be eternally youthful!

*Aphrodite: Goddess of Love and Beauty. Aphrodite governs a woman's enjoyment of love and beauty. Aphrodite's influence is felt in a woman's need to procreate, as well as her need to be artistically creative. Aphrodite demands intensity, in total absorption in who she is with or what she is doing.

My Little Chickadee

2009-09-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

Some new polyclay beads I made over the weekend. I've been wanting to create some cute little speckled eggs and bird beads, so here they are, all ready to be made into something fun for fall! And a few sweet magnolias as well...

First Word Friday

2009-09-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

The lovely Julia of Drawn to the Sea came up with a fabulous idea of encouraging creative , thoughtful blog writing. Julia writes:

Posting in short bursts invites you to interact, to be part of the process. Today I simply offer a little vignette... & hope it speaks to you, or through you. Will you share a piece of a chapter in your story of the pink swing, in three sentences or less? The first word of the first sentence is "She..."

Simply use the first word provided to jumpstart your own story in three sentences. You can check out Julia's First Word Friday comments here.

Here is my little vignette...and the first word of the first sentence is "Reckless" or a derivitive thereof. Won't you share your story with us? Have fun with it!

Oh My, Again!

2009-09-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic surprise to wake up to this morning! Lorelei emailed me this morning to tell me I won the Enchanted Adornments Hearts Giveaway! Man, I'm on a roll, maybe I should head on over to the blackjack tables and double down!

Thanks Lorelei for hosting the giveaway and the chance to win those gorgeous hearts! Hmmnnn, hearts...think I'll keep the Queen of Hearts and throw out that Two of Clubs!

Oh My!

2009-09-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

My polymer clay Pine Cone necklace is smack dab on the cover of the new Fall Stringing Magazine! Hot dog! Can't wait to see all the goodies inside, it's not on the newstands until the twenty first. I also have a bracelet featuring a new Autumn poly clay bead as well. Yippee!

Beautiful Poet

2009-09-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a toast to poet Mary Oliver who is 74 years young today. Her work has brought me hours of pleasure, deep insight, and marvelous wonderings about the heart of nature and man. She wrote:

"My work is loving the world.

Here the sunflowers, there the hummingbird —equal seekers of sweetness.

Here the quickening yeast; there the blue plums.

Here the clam deep in the speckled sand.
Are my boots old? Is my coat torn?

Am I no longer young, and still not half-perfect?

Let me

Keep my mind on what matters,which is my work
which is mostly standing still and learning to be astonished."
—from "Messenger" in Thirst (2006)

I strive to view the world as Mary Oliver does, "mostly standing still and learning to be astonished." Such words of wisdom and truth, treasuring this life and its wonders; not taking myself so seriously...

Jeanette Blix's Blog Giveaway!

2009-08-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

Jeanette Blix of Fundamentals is having a Blog (Block) Party Give Away-6 chances to win! She is giving away fantastic prizes so check it out!

Jeanette says: Hi everyone, I will be heading out of town for a week, but before I do, I wanted to announce I am having a block party (blog party) give away! It’s my first blog give away and I wanted it to be fun and full of prizes- and not just from me! Read all about it and enter here! Good Luck!

My ABS August Entries

2009-08-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

Have you seen all the awesome entries for August's ABS challenge? So many wonderfully talented jewelry designers are showcasing their work, and what inspiration and vision! Everyone has a different and unique view of the woodcut print, Great Wave off of Kanagawa by Katsushiki. Each time I study the print I find more details and intricacies, each curl of the wave has its own personality and purpose. You could concentrate on just one aspect and create something capturing its distilled essence.

I chose to concentrate on the flow of the crashing waves in my Ocean Spiral necklace, with a hint of aqua blue and green etched lampwork beads (BluHeeler) signifying the ocean colors.

My second entry was a blast to create! The basic armature structure came from a Connie Fox Spring Fling contest necklace I saw on her website a while ago. I tweaked it to make it my own and to reflect the Wave print. I love curling wire, and choosing the wire colors and lampwork beads (Diane Woodall) was easy, all those sea-themed beads I've been hoarding sure came in handy!

Happy Creating!

Summer Sand

2009-08-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

Continuing my end of summer theme (sorry, folks!), I created this Summer Sand necklace with BluHeeler Lampwork glass. I love the way these beads look like frosted beach glass dusted with silvery grains of sand. The steel wire wrapping and gunmetal chain give it an edge, and the beads nestle right into the hollow of your neck. I hope we can make it to the shore before summer's end so I can collect shells and sea glass, one of my absolute favorite things to do. It's always such a thrill to drive into California from the Las Vegas desert, searching the horizon for that glimpse of aqua blue sea and sky. And then distant blue transforms into reality and my heart skips a beat. It's the little things that make life worthwhile!

Feelin' Groovy

2009-08-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

I was feelin' groovy this weekend- kind of tie dye tee, sunglasses, ice-cold lemonade and listening to the 60's radio station on the back porch groovy, so I made some beads to reflect that sunshiny mood!

Some sea shells...I made these from molds from shells I found on the Jersey shore-Harvey Cedars to be exact... my favorite beach hangout from my back east days...
Last but not least-a wire work necklace with pearls and a Summers Studio Sea Life pendant. I wanted to capture that carefree summer attitude with a dash of whimsy and sophistication thrown in for good measure! I hope you all are having a groovy summer. Enjoy it while it lasts-it's over all too soon!

House of Gems

2009-08-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

Passing along an awesome opportunity for all you jewelry designers out there. Here's your chance to win up to $1000 in supplies from House of Gems! Here's the info from their site:

Looking for a Few Good Featured Artists: Do you do a happy dance when you come across a gemstone you don't already own? Do you find that every conversation you have comes back to your latest jewelry project? Do you love to help other people on their projects by giving tips or showing them step-by-step how to do things? If you answered to yes to any of these questions, we may have the perfect opportunity for you. If you answered yes to all three, then consider this destiny.

House of Gems is looking for Featured Artists to spotlight and promote on our website. In addition to the opportunity to present yourself as an artist, you will also generate traffic to your personal blog, Etsy store or social media profile. Artists may also be given opportunities to test new products, receive additional discounts and be the first to be informed of new releases. Fill out entry form here:spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?key=t-nh2cLJGns_PPZR7E8y...
Grand Prize (1): $1000 Shopping Spree on HouseofGems.com
Runners Up (1):$500 Shopping Spree on HouseofGems.com
Consolation Prize (5)$100 Shopping Spree on HouseofGems.comTimeline:

Contest runs July 18th, 2009 thru August 15th, 2009Submissions: Enter formal entry form here: spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?key=t-nh2cLJGns_PPZR7E8y... and then Contestants are to upload a maximum of 5 original jewelry designs to the House of Gems Flickr "Featured Artists" group www.flickr.com/groups/featuredartists/. Any and all design types and styles are welcome.

NOTE:In addition to completing this entry form, you must also upload digital images of your entry pieces to this Flickr Group: www.flickr.com/groups/featuredartists/ and share the contest on your personal blog or website.

Getting Ready for the Holidays

2009-08-07T12:27:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to get a head start on the fall/holiday jewelry and bead making frenzy, so here's a pic of my polymer clay Pinecone bead. I think I captured that woodsy, rustic feel with the deep brown accented with a nice frosty patina...I have more ideas on the back burner, hopefully they'll look as good in reality as in my head, you know how that goes! Pinecone beads are now available in my Etsy shop!

Blog Award

2009-08-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

The lovely and talented Barbara Lewis of Jewelry of Distinction gave me this cool blog award. Barbara creates the most awesome enamel jewelry and ceramic pendants and beads. I should know, I own several of her ceramic pieces and a really beautiful pair of enamel earrings! Check out her blog and shops for some great eye candy. Thank you, Barbara!

The conditions of the award are that I need to reveal five of my favorite things and to invite 10 others to do the same ... and a link back to the one who gave you the award. I know that most of us are quite busy right now getting ready for "Back to School" so if you wish not to participate, that's okay! So without further ado...

1. reading a great novel with classical music playing in the background

2. baking chocolate chip cookies

3. eating said cookies with my hubby

4. sitting in my backyard and watching the dog, bird, lizard, and ground squirrel shenanigans

5. a pilates workout because it makes me feel so good

Here are my picks for the blog award...

http://everyheartcrafts.blogspot.com/

http://brendalou2.blogspot.com/

http://livewirejewelry.blogspot.com/

http://santosandtesoros.blogspot.com/

http://lucidmoonstudio.blogspot.com/

http://beimondi-leslie.blogspot.com/

http://misamores-mari.blogspot.com/
http://sandnseadesigns.blogspot.com/

http://beadfuddled.blogspot.com/

http://www.florlariosart.com/

Another Summer Giveaway!

2009-08-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

The very talented and generous Cindy Pack is having her third and final Summer Celebration Giveaway on her blog! The lucky winner will receive a $50.00 gift certificate to buy pretties from her shop.

I have several of Cindy's beautifully handcrafted components that I have used in my designs, so be sure to enter and check out her blog and beautiful wearable art!

Purple Sage Polymer Clay Beads

2009-08-01T14:17:00.000-07:00

These pollen-laden purple sagebrush are blooming, lizards are basking in the sun on the back wall, and all is right with the world.

I tried to emulate the color of those purply-blue blooms and created these fun, bright beads. I extruded the clay and wrapped the clay ribbons around a base bead to achieve the swirly effect.

Guaranteed not to make you sneeze. Lizard not included.

Festa Beads

2009-07-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

I love bright, festive colors that celebrate life and diversity and so I was inspired to create my polymer clay Festa beads reminiscent of all the wonderful sights and sounds of my Portuguese heritage, the celebration known as Festa. My Portuguese grandmother told tales of the Azores and how our ancestors were fishermen and whalers-no wonder I have always been drawn to the sea!

In California exists a large Portuguese population that also migrated from the Azores on whaling ships in the nineteenth century. They keep their heritage alive through the Festa Celebration with food, religious ceremonies celebrating the Holy Spirit, and colorful bloodless "bullfights" that do not harm the animals. So now that I live in Nevada I am celebrating my own little Festa with my beads!

Summer Storms

2009-07-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

Counting Thunder
by Robert Hass

For several weeks the weather has been mild

And we have wallowed in this picnic sun,

(Our baskets stuffed with bread and wine) beguiled

By a string of buttered days, which one by one

Have lulled us into such complacency

That any thought of rain or want or cold

Would seem killjoy to a mind disposed to see

A clump of daisies nodding by the road.

But lightning flash upon the ridge portends

A sudden change of weather is at hand.

Caught unaware, we face the rising wind

And count the interval before the sound

Of thunderclap announces the return

Of darker times we had soon forgotten.

The dog cowers.

The weather vane turns

Wildly, and we scramble forth to batten

Down the shutters banging out their warning.

No use pretending storm clouds won't draw near.

They're certain now. The anvil head is mounting

High above the things we've held so dear.

We light the lantern as clouds obscure the sun,

And gather frightened children in our arms.

The lightning flash and thunder merge at one,

And we hunker down beneath the raging storm.

Just Playin' Around

2009-07-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

Not a whole lot going on around here today so I decided to pull out the copper bicone beads and wood daggers i've been hoarding for a few months. I also wanted to use my polymer clay pod in a new necklace, so this is what I came up with. Now I'm in the mood to break out the polyclay and try more of RonnaSarvasWeltman's new color recipes! Any ideas? Shapes, forms, odd bumpy looking pods from outer space? Lend me your thoughts!

Ancient Shells

2009-07-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

My friend and fellow INFJ Kate Clawson sent me some gorgeous polymer clay beads she custom made for me in a Pay it Forward event a while ago. I was so overwhelmed by Kate's generosity that I didn't do anything with the beads at first, I would stare and marvel at them instead! You see, Kate is very intuitive and she knew these aqua colors are my favorite (another INFJ trait!), and she also carved my name, INFJ, and adjectives describing me into the shell in ancient Hebrew. How cool and meaningful is that? I finally decided to create my necklace using only a few antiqued brass smooth and corrugated rounds to allow her beads to speak for themselves. I love wearing my personalized necklace--thank you Kate! Check out Kate's OrganicOdysseys shop, and her Almost Artifacts shop featuring her ancient Hebrew designs.If you are wondering what is an INFJ, it is a personality type based on the Meyer-Briggs test. I took the test in graduate school and was amazed at how right on the results were. You can take the free test here to see which personality type you are. You will be amazed!