Wednesday, September 10, 2008


I thought things would calm down a little bit after my summer art shows, but it just wasn't in the cards!

First of all, what a blast I have had at my shows this year. Meeting so many new people, getting back in touch with some of you that I only see a couple times a year... it's been wonderful! Thank you so much to those of you who have come out to see me. I can't tell you how happy I am to see familiar faces at my shows.

Second, like I said, things haven't slowed down much. Well, I have! We lost my grandmother a couple weeks ago. She was in hospice for a while (over a year), so we knew it was coming, but it's never easy. It was hard watching her children (my mom, aunts and uncles) deal with it. But some wonderful stories and memories were shared and distant family members were present. I haven't seen some of my cousins in years. And I met new family from grandma's hometown in Texas.

That same week my brother came in from the Navy, so it was quite an emotional week of joy and sorrow. But we had a little celebration for his homecoming. I only see Dan once a year, so it was wonderful to spend some time with him. My brothers and I enjoyed our normal pasttime -- playing games, and winning! :) He's back out on the east coast again, but not going out on anymore 6-month deployments, so he'll actually be around more often for his final years of service.

And then, as luck would have it, I came down with a horrendous ... something. I've been bed-ridden for the last week. Today is my first day up and about. After 2 doctor's visits and several medication trials later, they finally gave me some meds that work! Of course, I'm pumped with a false sense of energy, so I should really be in bed resting right now. But I was excited to make some new jewelry and try some new techniques. I'm buying a bunch of new tools this week to continue on my journey. Oooh, I can't wait 'til I'm completely healthy again and can play more!

Anyway, this is a photo of brand new pendant. It's copper -- sawed, shaped, and hammered by hand. I normally patinate my copper, but I really like how the bright copper works with the bright sterling silver. An added splash of sparkle with 3 clear Swarovski crystals and sterling silver dangles, on sterling silver chain.