Bead-Mused

Ready To Swap & Bead & Hop & Fish

2012-01-27T10:53:00.000-06:00

This is my teaser image for the beads I am sending to my swap partner Skylar. Skylar is a bead embroider and you can see her work on her blog or in her Etsy shop. This is going to be so much fun! I cannot wait to see what she sends me but, more than that, I cannot wait to see what she creates with what I am sending her. I had a lovely focal sitting in a box and knew it would be AGES before I got to it, so I am sending it to a new, loving owner. It's a form of "re-homing", you see. And in other news, I am working on new tutorials, revamped tutorials, and new patterns. I've also got lots of finished pieces to start adding to the shop, and I am very excited about all of this.

As some of you may know, we like to fish. This photo was taken in a little bend of the Blanco River. This spot is usually no more than eight feet deep and is full of feisty fish. If you look at the right hand side of the photo you can see the branches of some saplings. This is where I usually stand to cast my lures.

This was after over six inches of rain early Wednesday morning and, since the photo was taken around 5:00 p.m., the water had actually receded quite a bit. The spot I usually stand in is just to the left of those saplings. The water was flowing pretty darned fast and we watched an ARMCHAIR float down the river. By tomorrow morning, the flow will be slower and water will be lower, so we will go wet some line and hope the fish are biting. Whatever you do this weekend, I hope it brings you joy! Bead on, beadlings!

I Get To Play!

2012-01-18T08:48:00.000-06:00

My name was one of those chosen for the 5th Bead Soup Blog Party. I'm very excited. I got to meet my swap partner the other day and I want you to meet her. Her name is Skylar Bre'z. She is member of both the Etsy BeadWeavers Team and the Etsy Bead Embroidery Guild. Check out her shop and see just what she creates.

I've got her beads picked out. They are quite pretty but I knew it was going to be years more before I got to using them. They deserve a good home, don't you think? Oh no! I cannot show them to you! sshhh - they are a surprise! (I'll show you a photo AFTER she gets them into her hot little hands!)

Bead Soup Blog Party

2012-01-07T12:11:00.000-06:00

My fingers are crossed and all I can think is "oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!"

Merry Fishmas!

2011-12-22T12:38:00.000-06:00

Picture courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Yesterday we went trout fishing with one of my long-time friends. No fish came home, although T-man did catch two small ones. My dear friend Scott decided to take a dip in the frigid waters of the Guadalupe River and filled his waders with cold water. Ariel waded across the river, supposing she would have a better chance. That was just fishful thinking. Me? I just kept wetting line and feeding fish. But we've decided to give it another try next week. Yep, we are definitely gluttons for punishment. But we had such a relaxing day, and you really can't beat that.

Christmas will be spent with grandbabies climbing all over me. Woo hoo! I cannot wait to see those boys. Of course, I cannot wait to see their mommy and their daddy either - that goes without saying. I hope your holidays will be filled with joy, love and peace.

Changes On The Horizon

2011-11-14T14:23:00.000-06:00

Food for thought:

Life belongs to the living, and he who lives must be prepared for changes. ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Our destiny changes with our thought; we shall become what we wish to become, do what we wish to do, when our habitual thought corresponds with our desire. ~ Orison Swett Marden

We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance. ~ Harrison Ford

One changes from day to day, and... after a few years have passed one has completely altered. ~ George Sand

Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change. ~ Thomas Hardy

Stay tuned, beadlings!

Giveaway Alert!

2011-11-01T16:24:00.001-05:00

I want to win the @vintajco & @beadaholique Crystal Copper Giveaway! #ilovevintaj

Oh yes, absolutely!

It Started With A Cup Of Coffee

2011-11-01T10:11:00.000-05:00

I woke up in a very pensive mood this morning and seeing how it is the day after one of the most ritualistic on the calendar things just fell into place. We all have rituals, be they small or be they grandiose. I just started wondering about mine, yours and ours.

It started with a cup of coffee. Is it the coffee I enjoy so much or is it the ritual of the coffee? I don't really like the taste of coffee unless I mask it with lots of amaretto creamer but I really like the warmth as it goes down, even in summer. So what is it about my coffee in the morning? There is a lot of ritual involved with coffee: measure the water, measure the grounds, and don't forget about the little sniff when you open the can. Even the pushing of the button on the brewer is ritual. Then there is the pouring of just the right amount of creamy goodness into the special mug and, finally, watching the liquid change color as coffee and creamer meld. Hold the mug just so; take the first sip, and . . . . . ahhh! The ritual is complete. By the way, the mug in the photo is not the special mug. When that photo was taken the girls had not yet gifted me with the special mug.

We all have something each and every day that we do without fail and in steps that have become more than just habit. We may not be aware of it, but whatever it is has become a ritual. Our day is incomplete without it. In fact, our day may just fall apart without it and, as you know, I am a curious woman. What is your major ritual of the day?

Stuff to Share

2011-10-23T10:05:00.000-05:00

I'm wrapping another term so my days are filled with final papers. I haven't been feeling very creative for a while, but that doesn't mean I don't wholly appreciate the creativity of others so I found some things to share with you.

Lorelei Eurto has co-written a new book! You can pre-order at a discounted price. Check out her work - it's fascinating. I've been a fan of hers for a few years now.

My beady friend Carol Dean at Sand Fibers is having a give-away. Please read the directions to make sure you are entered correctly. Good luck! Hurry - registration ends tomorrow night!

Art Bead Scene wants earrings. You have until Thursday, so get a move on!

On another note, I joined Pintrest but I'm not sure what to do with it. Any suggestions? How do I make boards? What do I post? What is "re-pinning"? (sounds like you broke up with a frat boy and then go back together) I've honestly liked one thing and that is as far as I've gotten with it.

In parting, you know I'm studying nutrition. That is the reason I started posting foodie blog links. Here's one that should appeal to all of you J.R.R. Tolkein fans (Lord of the Rings for the rest of you). Check out the Middle-Earth Recipes.

Maybe Tomorrow

2011-09-27T07:58:00.000-05:00

The sun will come out . . . . Actually sunshine is something we have an abundance of here.

I dislike posting that I have nothing to post but I really have nothing to post. Friday we took a lovely drive to LLano, where we also picked up home grown watermelon and Israeli melon. We'll be having the latter tonight and I can't wait. We came back via Hwy 71 and saw some of the damage from the Spicewood wildfire. The scope of that one was so great that I cannot even imagine the shock that seeing Bastrop would cause. My heart goes out to anyone who had to experience any of the fires we've had in the past month. The weekend was the weekend and yesterday was spent running errands. Note to self: no more grocery shopping on Monday morning lest ye be run over by employees restocking shelves. Sheesh. Yesterday was a wash and today is a heavy homework today. (Look, I'm posting before 8:00 a.m.!) I do have some new foodie blog links to share. So maybe I'll post tomorrow.

Love/Hate Relationships

2011-09-22T11:17:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was filled with mundane stuff, notably a visit to my dentist. I love the man and yet hate him at the same time. Maybe it's the idea of what he does that I hate. Later a trip to the chiropractor to undo the tenseness brought on by the visit to the dentist. My chiropractor and I have a lot of things in common so it's always an interesting visit, plus he does a special treatment for fibromyalgia that actually leaves me feeling energized. It's purely a love relationship. This was followed by a trip to the grocery store to pick up lunch. I hate the grocery store, but lunch with T-man was great. And yes, that is my BIG love relationship. The evening ended with seminars (yes, I was there on the right night!). They were very interesting seminars this week, but sitting with the laptop in my lap, earbuds in my ears, typing quick sentences for two hours can just be horrendous. See? Love/hate relationships.

I can easily apply this to beadwork. For instance, I love the look and feel of right angle weave, but it is so very tedious. Love it, hate it. Knitting? I love the tranquility of it, but it's just too hot to knit. Okay, I realize that one is a stretch. So what about you? What's your artistic/creative love/hate relationship?

Tuesday

2011-09-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

Did you know there aren't really any Tuesday sayings? You know what I mean. Wednesday is "hump day". We say TGIF and Sure Happy It's Thursday (I'll let you make the acronym there). We get the "Monday morning blues" but there is nothing for poor Tuesday. So I'll give you an artistic quote instead, one which can easily be applied to beading:

"Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creative." ~~ Charles Mingus

Case in point: Sea Urchin:

It ain't no big thing. It's deceptive in both its simplicity and its complexity. I do wish it still fit. I hate the thought of remaking it. It was one of the very first pieces I made back when I first started selling beads in 1997. Ariel was still napping most of the day and I would stitch while she slept.

What is your favorite simply complex piece? I have several pictures in my head of pieces created by beady friends, but I would like to know your favorite today. Anyone??

Etsy Love And Chocolate Pudding

2011-09-19T11:17:00.000-05:00

There is still beadiness running around in my noggin and I love when someone prods it. What is there to say when one of your idols promotes your work? I have loved Sharri Moroshok's work since shortly after I started selling beads 14 years ago (when we were both around 10). Now I love size 15^o seed beads but Sharri is insane! She included my Coral Reef Bracelet in a treasury over the weekend. Here's a link to her Etsy store. Thank you, Sharri! It's a gorgeous treasury and I'm proud to be part of it.

It rained! Oh my stars, it rained for more than 10 minutes! It rained so much one of the windows leaked and I did not even mind one little bit! (I am a bit excited about the rain.)

Christine at Live Passionately has some words of wisdom regarding "victimitis". Words can be so powerful. Sometimes we forget.

Finally, for your noshing pleasure, I present Homemade Chocolate Pudding from Life Blessons. Oh my goodness. How yummy does this sound? T-man is already asking for it (the pudding, you understand). And since it is Monday, I must finish this week's homework. I am off! Have a great day!

Duh . . . .

2011-09-16T10:34:00.001-05:00

School is broken into 10 week "terms". Basically a term is equal to a semester were I attending a brick and mortar school. So, last term my two online seminars were on Thursday night. This term, they are both on Wednesday night. Guess who was channeling her last term self this week? Yep. Duh. Penalty? I have to write an additional 200 word paper for the class in which seminar attendance equals a grade. Fortunately the other class has optional seminar attendance which means no additional paper when I miss a session. *whew*

Yesterday I gave you Fashion Trendsetter's fall color forecast. Today I offer Pantone's fall color forecast. I must admit to liking the Pantone colors more.

I really wish I had more hours in the day.

Hello Again

2011-09-15T11:47:00.001-05:00

I know, I know - what fun is a blog that is never updated? Shame on me. I would love to tell you that the reason I've been away is that I've just been inundated with ideas. Alas, that is not so. I've been inundated with school. This term is writing heavy. And yes, my life is a roller coaster.

I have some ideas for some almost daily fun for you. I'll start scouting the give aways and contests again. There will be some yummy recipes and, as always, beautiful pages to inspire you. Let's start with this one: the color forecast for fall.

To make up for my lack of diligence, I have updated the web sites and blog lists to read. I've also added foodie blogs. I'm doing away with my other blog. That means that now you'll get school stuff and food stuff along with art stuff. Hey, what better way to create than with something for noshing on the work table? Just don't get the art sticky.

Let's start over with a question for the day: What have you been doing while I was away?

Etsy Love On Independence Day

2011-07-04T15:33:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to coffeecraze217 for including my Coral Reef bracelet in her Etsy treasury. You'll find her shop here.

This color combo rocks, doesn't it? We call this combination "complimentary", which places them exactly opposite each other on the wheel. They compliment each other simply because they contrast so highly with each other, making the pretty much opposites.

I hope you are having a great holiday! Did you get any beading done? *sigh* Lucky you!

Stupid Little Motorcar

2011-06-22T15:11:00.000-05:00

Ugh. Sometimes life just gets in the way. There honestly is stuff on the horizon, the problem is that life just keeps stepping in the way of the little motorcar called THINGS I NEED TO GET DONE. I'm sure you all have a clone of that little motorcar and I'm sure life often steps right in front of that little car, but if you don't have anti-lock brakes on your little motorcar you're going to skid right into life and then everything goes to hell in a hand basket and that's what happened.

As soon as the stupid little motorcar is out of the little motorcar repair shop and I can back to THINGS I NEED TO GET DONE, I'll be back blogging, good as new. Okay, maybe not like new but with new stories.

My Plate Is Full . . .

2011-05-06T16:59:00.000-05:00

My cup runneth over! I've got quite a bit going on right now, the least of which is the fast approaching LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for a certain daughter. I realize that it's been a while since I've posted :{ and I do apologize for that. I've finally got a handle on doing bead biz stuff and doing homework, but I'll discuss homework over at Nonnie Goes to School. So in trying to get back into the swing of normalcy, on Monday I will get back into finding you lovely beady giveaways from my cyber beading buddies, fashionista goodies, AND great recipe and cooking blogs. It's very exciting, at least for me. I'm hoping it will be for you, too. After all, these are the reasons I started blogging in the first place.

I have been flying, a lot if you count cancelled flights. I had an impromptu stay in Newark, New Jersey. I'd rather not fly through there again (no offense to any Newarkians) as it is a very confusing airport and homeless men offering to "get wit me" at 2:00 a.m. was just less than appealing. Maine was lovely and I have pictures to show you next week. I visited my grandsons for Easter and have more pictures of them. They have grown so much! And we have finally painted the walls of my studio/office! The floor gets painted next week and then I have the job of moving all the beads (and other artistic goodies) into that room. I'll just have to organize as I go!

In the meantime, if you are in Austin on June 15, I will be participating in "Merchandise Day" for the EGA's South Central Region seminar. You can find more information on the seminar website. Merchandise Day is usually open to the public and you'll find LOTS of great stitching supplies. I will have some new kits and new patterns available.

In October I'll be teaching and selling in Houston and will provide more details on that soon. And I'm going back to plenty of teaching proposals being sent out in hopes of traveling far and wide, even if I do hate flying.

So, plate and cup are very full but I think I can handle it all. Stay tuned!

More Etsy Love And Other Things

2011-03-21T11:44:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to Blue Heron Quilts for including my Coral Reef Bracelet in her elegant treasury. It is always such an honor for me to be recognized by fellow Etsians.

Check out some new photos for an older listing:

My niece was gracious enough to do some modeling for me. She's very photogenic and she brings my pieces to life. You'll be seeing more of her in the future.

Life here are pretty much the same, other than I've got so much on my plate that things are beginning to drip off the side. Hop over to Nonnie Goes to School for more updates.

I have been remiss where you are concerned, beadlings. I'm still working on getting back into the groove. I'm starting to understand why the Victorians spent a year grieving the loss of a loved one. It has taken me just about that long to get things back to where they were. I'll be on the lookout for groovy give-aways, beady news, gorgeous blogs and nifty artistic things. Just stick with me. Oh -- and keep on beading on!

Going To Maine!

2011-01-21T10:54:00.000-06:00

I'm going to Maine in April! My class for the EGA New England Region's seminar has made. I'm so excited. I get to go to Portland, Maine. I get to meet wonderful people. I have to get on multiple airplanes, but that's okay. I don't get to have Maine lobster, but that's okay. Do you know what is in Portland, Maine besides the wonderful members of the EGA? Why, Caravan Beads is in Portland, Maine beadlings, and I have already been promised a field trip! Thank you, Marjie!

And in studio news, it's almost usable. I got the new desk, the ergonomic chair, the lovely rug for keeping my toes warm. I've picked out the color for the epoxy flooring, the walls and the trim. We'll pull up the carpet this week and put the desk in (fortunately it disassembles easily and reassembles just as easily). We'll need to wait until it's just a bit warmer to put down the new floor and then the paint. It is going to be great, especially once I get all the shelves and all the beads in. Pale yellow walls with fresh white trim and lots of turquoise accents. Yep, it will definitely be MY room!

New Look

2011-01-17T12:51:00.001-06:00

Okay, so you've had time to check out the new look for the blog, but did you check out the new look for the web site? Please, feel free, and if something doesn't work right just shoot me an email to let me know. I'm trying to catch up on what I used to post for you (it feels like years have passed). My plan is to have new blogs and sites for you to check out and to get into posting giveaways for you. And remember, it's always nice to hear from you. Have you found a great bead/art site that you would like to share? Let me know. In the meantime, keep on beading on.

New Blog

2011-01-11T11:12:00.000-06:00

No, not this one. This one just had a makeover.

Silly me! Ha Ha Ha! I started another blog. I wanted to keep the school stuff separate from the beading and family stuff, so I needed another journal. And it will be for school and all the exploits of a middle-aged grandmother in school (I just love that my age bracket is now "middle-aged"). I'll find some other blogs and links for you to enjoy. I think that if I am able to journal my exploits, it might make things easier for me.

On the creativity front, I've got some new ideas. I've just got to find my groove somewhere in between the reading and seminars. It's almost there. I'm making over the "studio" in February. I've got flooring and paint colors chosen. I've got a new desk/work table picked out and a nice ergonomic chair. T-man is making shelves for the beads & supplies. It should be very conducive to work and school.

On the family front, T-man is almost finished with his Associate's Degree. Yay! Ariel has been publishing stories. I'll see if she'll let me link to some of them (and she's ready for her blog). Natalie and her brood are fine down on the coast. I miss them terribly. Everything is copacetic!

So, creative question of the day: What is your go-to color? I bet y'all already know mine is olive green, with a bit of purple. Okay, that's two. But the green is the base. So what is your go-to color for the anchor of your palette? Inquiring minds want to know!

School Daze

2011-01-07T11:30:00.000-06:00

This is a BIG adjustment. Keep in mind that it has been over 30 years since I've been in school. Okay, there were a few training classes and beadwork classes scattered here and there through those 30 years, but still --it's been a very long time.

The first night (Wednesday), I panicked. We have online seminars. I had done a walk through seminar to teach us how to do the seminars, but I could not for the life of me remember what to do. So I get into the seminar a little late. Duh. Now I'm stressed and forget that we get graded on how much we participate! Oh crap! I need to start typing!! Fortunately, the prof cut us some slack because she realized we did not have access to our ebook until that morning and there was no way we could read the entire assignment. I had read part of the assignment, so I was able to answer a few questions. I finished the reading (Assessment of Nutrition) and now have to formulate my 150+ response to the questions. And I have to do the same thing for my Humanities class. Both of these are due tomorrow, with follow ups by Tuesday. Crap, crap, crap, crapola!!

I have also found that the arm chair in the living room is not the best place for my schoolwork. I have an Ikea wish list, with a new desk and chair. Redoing the floor and painting my studio aren't scheduled until February. Call me crazy, but I hate the idea of putting the desk together, putting the chair together, getting them situated then having to take them out of the room, waiting for things to dry, then putting them back in the room. I prefer to do it just once. I guess that's why I hate moving. I might have to get over it, though.
I'm hoping that in a few weeks things get a little easier, start running a little more smoothly, and I have a few more hours for me, for my art, for my family. I need to take some photos and get some things sold! I need to design some new goodies. There are things that need to be knitted and stitched. I even need to finish a painting. Things are stagnating! Replication would be the answer. Anyone? Replicator sitting in your garage, just waiting to be used? Please? With sugar on top?

Solstice/Christmas Flu

2010-12-22T10:56:00.000-06:00

We had big plans for the Solstice. We were going to take Ariel to her grandma's house, go shopping and then stay up and watch the lunar eclipse. So after we dropped the kids at grandma's, T-man and I spent the day buying Christmas gifts for the babies. We had a lovely trip to the local Ikea store. We looked at a new desk and chair for me. We looked at the cabinets we want when we redo our kitchen. We checked out new beds. We got some more dish towels. We had a good time making our wish list. Then we went back to the in-laws' and had a lovely family dinner. All-in-all it was a wonderful day. Then it hit me.

My stomach started hurting horribly after dinner. I thought maybe those few holiday cookies (yum!) had done me in after all. I started aching on the drive home. When we got home I took an antacid pill. I tried to stay up, but by 10:00 I was in bed. My stomach was still hurting, my muscles were still aching and I was FREEZING! Then I started to shake. It was midnight by this time. Both T-man and Ariel were sound asleep. I woke him and left her sleeping. T-man did take a look outside, but it was so cloudy he couldn't even see the moon. We will skip my part of the story now. At 1:45 Ariel woke up & came into our room wondering why we were missing the eclipse. Poor baby!

I really wish things could have worked out differently Monday night/Tuesday morning -- all around! I spent yesterday in bed. Yes, I stayed in bed all day. I feel so much better today, but I'm tired. At least I'm not achy (or anything else!). I figure that, once again, I contracted the flu while Christmas shopping. This is the second time this has happened. Next year I'm going the catalogue/online route.

So I wish you Happy Holidays. I hope you and yours are healthy and happy. I hope this past year has brought you peace, love and happiness and that the coming year will bring you much more.

It Hatched! It Hatched!

2010-12-14T11:23:00.000-06:00

Okay, I don't want you to get too excited, but my news is finally ready to be told. Here you go: (taking deep breath)

I am going back to school to earn a new degree in the Science of Nutrition and then I will earn a Master's in Public Health. Due to some of my own issues as well as everything that little Marshall is going through, I started developing an interest in this field. After researching, I also found out that this is a wide open field of employment in Central Texas. This is not taking into account that we really need a second income -- I would like to be able to take trips with my girls, my son-in-law and my grandsons some day.

This won't interfere too much with the beading, so don't worry. There will still be plenty of musings to come and there may be some other surprises at the beginning of the year. Like I've been saying, I'm undergoing a metamorphosis of the greatest magnitude. Told ya so! My New Year will be quite different this time around. But I will keep you updated with all the craziness that surrounds me.

So, I leave you with thoughts of a very Merry Christmas (or insert the holiday of giving that you choose) and a Happy New Year! Thank you for playing along with me -- I really enjoyed the interactions, and look forward to many MANY more! ♥

Hatching

2010-12-13T17:44:00.000-06:00

I know, I know -- you're on the edge of your seat, right? I don't mean to tease you so badly. This must be a damned ostrich egg. It's taking much longer to hatch than I anticipated!

Be patient, beadlings. I'll have news soon.

Peck, Peck, Peck

2010-12-08T11:15:00.002-06:00

It's coming! Soon!!

I may be a little excited. I'm very nervous. Are you curious?

Be patient. I'll divulge all next week. In the meantime, stay warm.

Changes

2010-12-06T10:31:00.000-06:00

Most folks out there decide to make their New Year's Resolutions on New Year's Eve. I've been very busy for the past week making mine. What I can tell you right now is that there will be HUGE lifestyle changes. I'm not quite sure I'm ready for all of this, but that ball has already started rolling downhill, picking up momentum as it goes. On the other hand, none of changes are being made blindly. I've been researching, gathering information and learning every day. Basically, I've tried to make some informed decisions. There is also a lot of just waiting involved, kind of like sitting on a egg.

When this egg has hatched, you'll be the first to know!

Metamorphosis

2010-10-28T09:55:00.004-05:00

Definition of METAMORPHOSIS

1a : change of physical form, structure, or substance especially by supernatural means
1b : a striking alteration in appearance, character, or circumstances
2: a typically marked and more or less abrupt developmental change in the form or structure of an animal (as a butterfly or a frog) occurring subsequent to birth or hatching

Sometimes I feel as though I exist in an endless state of metamorphosis, constantly withdrawing and reemerging, slightly altered. My head fills with ideas that I hesitate to execute for fear they will fail, so I close myself off. Once in a while I let something emerge which is lauded and applauded, so I stick my head out. Then insecurity strikes and back inside the cocoon I go, trying hard to reinvent the wheel. I can be my own worst enemy.

This state of constant reinvention can be a bit stressful. The endless closing and opening of the door tires the muscles, like a repetitive muscle injury. But the little company may have become a little stagnant and I think it needs to be freshened up. So it's time for a little metamorphosis. Of course, this entails a lot of thought and execution, much research and development, and some retooling -- all the things I thought I got away from when I left corporate USA. And don't confuse metamorphosis with growth - we're talking noticeable alteration versus gradual, progressive development. Believe me, constant growth is much simpler than metamorphosis any day!

There is a HUGE list of things to be done just to get the ball rolling. My poor website waits patiently for its remodel. My Twitter page has been totally neglected. My Etsy store is starved for attention. I need a fan page on Facebook. New patterns have been drafted but not marketed, much less stitched. Off the top of my head I've got three teaching proposals due by the end of the year that need samples completed, then instructions need to be typed (these are the ones that have been sent. I still have more to hunt). Housekeeping? To paraphrase my dear friend Cat, if you see a mess you clean it up. These are the times I wish for a replicator just to have a couple more of me to get everything done.

So it comes down to this: it is time to fully emerge and get something accomplished. I can't say for sure what it will be. After all, the journey is the thing, right? So, in another paraphrase:

Fasten your seat belts. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

More Etsy Love

2010-10-20T08:48:00.002-05:00

My Coral Reef Bracelet was once again featured in an Etsy Treasury. Many thanks to Shelley, aka The Bear and The Bug for the exposure. Hers is a brand new Etsy store, so be sure to visit and check out her goods. The different hues of orange in this treasury just rock, don't they?

Feelin' the love!

Introspective Friday

2010-09-24T10:33:00.003-05:00

A family is a place where minds come in contact with one another. If these minds love one another the home will be as beautiful as a flower garden. But if these minds get out of harmony with one another it is like a storm that plays havoc with the garden.
Buddha

I admit that I heard this on one of my favorite television shows the other night, but it resonated. What else can I say? Beads are calling and time is running out, so "yikes, and away!"

I Am Drowning . . .

2010-09-19T20:09:00.002-05:00

in a sea of beads! My entire work surface is covered right now as I pull and cull, trying to make appetizing mixtures for an upcoming jewelry party. I told T-man this evening that no matter how much I make, I am still going to end up feeling like it's not enough. My biggest problem is that I don't like doing cookie cutter inventory. I really want my customers to walk away with one-of-a-kind pieces even if it's just a pair of bead-on-a-headpin-dangle earrings. Who wants to wear something that you're going to see on 100 other people? Not me! There are a few pieces that are similar but they are still different and, yes, there may be a very few that are identical. So I sift and sift, match and match, put together and take apart, looking for the unusual combos to mix up with the unusual chain, clasps, ear wires -- nothing blah here! I've been working for a couple of months now and I can see a light at the end of the tunnel, but I am pretty darn sure it's a freight train.

Oh, and did I mention that yours truly has been *ugh* stringing?!?!? (Okay, once in blue moon won't kill me, right?)

Pictures next month -- right now I must concentrate on finding that elusive, just right, unusual color combo for a new necklace! Later, beadlings!

Etsy Love

2010-09-01T09:06:00.010-05:00

My Coral Reef bracelet has been featured in three Etsy Treasuries this summer, two of those just last week! I am very grateful to these fellow Etsians for the exposure. On June 18 fissionchips created Aqua & Orange. I would love to link to her shop, but she's an Etsy buyer! Of course I love the color combo here:

On August 28 athenaknits created Sea Creatures. Check out her nifty knitted items. I love the creatures in her treasury:

And on August 30 mamzellefifi created Blue Dream. Check out her crocheted creations. I love the different blues here:

I am definitely feeling the Etsy love right now.

Sale!

2010-08-27T11:10:00.005-05:00

This not an exciting post, but it might be a helpful post. I have put most of my loom and peyote stitch patterns on sale. There are some at Bead-Patterns and some more at Sova Enterprises. Some of the patterns at SE will be going away forever after the sale ends. The patterns at both sites are under all my beading aliases: Theresa Buchle, Bumble Beads, and Tabby Enterprises. The bunch at SE includes LOTS of holiday patterns. Quick! Christmas is right around the corner! Happy beading!

Weekend Photo Journal . . . .

2010-08-17T14:26:00.013-05:00

What did you do this weekend? I was supposed to go with him:

and her:
to visit them:
and them:
and go here:
Sounds nice, right? A nice little family get away to the Texas coast with the hubz, the kids & the grandkids. That is not how it happened.

He:
did not get to go because our air conditioner decided to die Friday night. Insert frowny face here.

Instead of this: :
we got this:
Look at this:
and this:
and this:
He was a BIG surprise. He also threw a big monkey wrench in the plans. Insert Ariel's frowny face here.

But we stayed an extra day, and she:

got to go here:
which resulted in this:

What did you do this weekend?

Sneak Peek

2010-07-03T11:03:00.004-05:00

I thought I would let you see what I've been doing. A web site renovation is long overdue. I had forgotten how much work it actually is, especially when I learn as I go. I started years ago, typing raw code. Of course the cyber world has moved forward while yours truly has been stuck in HTML land for over a decade. I did manage to create a favicon! It just didn't show in the photo. The site renovation will get done, it just won't happen overnight. The home page is finished to my liking and I have started the gallery page which shows the classes and workshops I offer, but I think I'll take a break and put some beads in my hands.

Have a safe and happy 4^th!

The Best Bead Give-A-Way Ever!

2010-06-21T18:29:00.002-05:00

Denise Yezbak Moore is giving away a HUGE bead stash on her blog. Oh my stars! It's like a mini bead store. Be sure to follow her rules if you want to be entered.

I'm off to West Virginia later this week. John Denver keeps singing in my ear. I'm not sure I'll get to see much of anything other than my hotel room and the classroom, but I can dream. From what I've seen, it's a beautiful city with tree lined streets sitting the banks of a river. Plus, the weather forecast is very similar to what we have here so packing will be very easy.

Other than that, everything here is pretty much the same. You'll hear from me when I get back and if I get out, I'll make sure to take some photos. In the meantime, keep on beadin' on!

Oh, Hello!

2010-06-14T12:24:00.004-05:00

What's new? I've not been doing much, which is totally contrary to what I should have been doing. I find I'm still kind of muddling through my days but, with Yoda as my new mentor, I have a new attitude. "Do or do not . . . there is no try." This week there are kits to make and ship to the hotel. Next week I get on a plane and fly to Charleston, West Virginia to spend a few days with some wonderful stichers/beaders. I'm looking forward to everything but the flying part. I hate to fly.

On the home front, it is summer time which means Ariel is home with me. On Wednesday Marshall is scheduled for surgery, but he is such a strong little fighter that I'm sure he will come through with flying colors. Even so, you know I always welcome your well wishes and positive thoughts.

That's the update for now. Hopefully, they will begin to be more frequent and I can start boring you all again with photos of piles of beads, and there is a HUGE pile right now! For now, I must get things moving. Keep on beadin' on!

Reading . . .

2010-05-12T17:13:00.002-05:00

I found a book titled The Little Book of Letting Go by Hugh Prather. In a nutshell, I'm learning to be a duck and to let things just roll off my back. So far, so good. More and more things roll off these days, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Here's a reading topic: Kindle vs. Nook. What is your opinion?

New Look

2010-05-10T16:47:00.002-05:00

Hello there! What do you think? I've also revamped the Twitter page and am working on the web site. YES, THAT IS CORRECT! I am working on the *gasp* web site! I've also been making some new pieces for the Etsy shop. Have you picked yourself up off the floor yet? Well, okay then. I'm trying to get back into my old groove, so stayed tuned for those updates. There will be more toward the end of the week. Have you been beading like good little beaders? I sure hope so! Later, beadlings!

I'm Back (Sort Of)

2010-04-20T10:29:00.002-05:00

Let's see, my last post was in January? Sheesh! I do apologize, but I've got my reasons. Both parents were in the hospital for different reasons, beginning December 26^th. Mom finally came home shortly after New Year's Day. Then there were weeks of doctor's appointments and chemotherapy and lots of tests and scans, all of which kept me away from my work. Then they both ended up BACK in the hospital at the same time again for different reasons. Unfortunately, Mom did not come home this time and she passed away on March 31^st. Dad is fine physically but it's going to take some time for him to adjust to living without her.

So, I am slowly coming out of my self-imposed hibernation and will soon regale you tales of the twins, the new baby that's on the way, Ariel becoming a teenager, T-man getting his degree and all the goodies I have up my sleeve. Please be patient. I still feel like I'm full of nothing but raw nerves, kind of like the butterfly emerging from the cocoon up there. Before you know it the posting will be back and so will I. Keep on beading on!

Where Have I Been?

2010-01-26T15:38:00.002-06:00

kinda busy . . .

My grandsons are 3 1/2 months old now. It's almost time to come out of hibernation, so I'll be back soon.

It's Been A Month?

2009-12-02T12:57:00.005-06:00

Wow! I had no idea that I had neglected the blog for so long! Okay, here's the scoop.

The wire is out and I feel great! Progress is good and I'm actually starting to move. I tried to drive. Driving went well, stopping did not. Fortunately I chose a safe place for the test.

Max came home the week before Thanksgiving!

Marshall is doing well and we're hoping he can come home by Christmas (positive thoughts, please!).

For Thanksgiving dinner we had our traditional mac and cheese with sausage, ending with a homemade lemon curd tart. The only thing missing was being in front of a campfire with a warm sleeping bag waiting. Next year we'll get back to that.

It's freaking cold here. We'll need to protect the garden from a freeze on Friday (we don't want to loose our winter tomatoes!) only to have it get all warm again next week. That's winter in Central Texas.

T-man finished the first classes of his degree plan with an 82 and a 97, and I am so proud of my husband!

Ariel has started rock climbing and made her very first summit.

I've had my first 2011 teaching proposal accepted and as soon as the contract is signed I'll have details. I'm finishing a new teaching piece. I'm in my winter doldrums and pretty much have to force myself to work.

And that's all I have for you. Stay warm and keep on beading on!

This Is Kind Of Cool

2009-11-05T15:58:00.002-06:00

I found something a little different to share with you today. I know some of you use and keep smaller amounts of beads, and as such you want something inexpensive for your beads. Check this out. It uses not only inexpensive but recyclable supplies to make your storage tubes.

Hope the sun is shining on you today!

What More Could A Beader Want?

2009-11-03T15:12:00.005-06:00

How about another chance to win Marcia's book? Hop on over to Lorelei's Blog and leave a comment. Maybe you'll win. Maybe I'll win. Someone is going to win!

AND if you pre-order Beverly's new book (also signed), you receive free beads and a chance to win beads and fibers worth over $400!

Don't forget about Art Bead Scene with their weekly giveaways and the monthly challenge. The newest challenge started this week. Take yourself on over and see the inspirational painting.

Everything I did bead-wise over the weekend must be redone. SIGH And I must go back to my orthopedic surgeon in two weeks to have a little something fixed. SIGH BUT the grandsons are growing like weeds and doing just fine, so something in my world is still okay!

Excuse My Being Remiss, Please!

2009-10-30T12:38:00.003-05:00

It's been a hectic week here at Chez Bead-Mused. Fortunately, things have turned around. I got my most recent teaching proposal out the door just in the nick of time. Whew! Our little Marshall had a reaction to his dialysis fistulas, which caused a bit of alarm since the first thought was infection. Apparently this reaction is not unusual, just scary and for now he is fine. His dialysis starts next week so hopefully he'll be ready to come home in a few weeks. And Max is now four pounds big and nursing on his own. He'll be ready to come home soon. I'm waiting for just a few days when Natalie and Bryan can take deep calming breaths and just sit still for a while. And my physical therapy is progressing. This time has been a bit more difficult. I think it's just due to the other stress surrounding me right now, but I'll muddle through.

I have more giveaways and contests for you. I really didn't forget.

Heather Powers at Humbelbeads has a little project driven giveaway. You still have time to use your creativity to win a nifty prize. If nothing else, the visit is worth it just to look at Heather's designs.

I've missed seeing all the color on Beverly Gilbert's blog, but she more than made up for it this time. Hurry! You have until this weekend to enter and win and explosion of yumminess!

I'll try to keep up next week. In the meantime, have a fun, safe Halloween and remember to honor those who came before us on All Hallow's Eve.

Creative Thoughts

2009-10-23T19:09:00.005-05:00

This is a "skewered dragon-fae" necklace that I made for my dear friend Michelle back in July. It was a special request, right down to the beautiful blues. Michelle and I met way back when I belonged to the fantasy/medieval role playing group (the same one wherein I met the love of my life). Once upon a time, Michelle and I did not speak to each other for years, which was a very sad time for me. We have since found our way back to each other, for which I'm exceedingly grateful. It's not easy to find good friends. It's even more difficult to hold on to them. I kept forgetting to post the picture of her birthday present! Her birthday is three days after mine, and her celebration was absolutely fantastic -- it was at a CHOCOLATE AND WINE BAR in Austin! Heavenly!!

And I've been trying to take my mind off my pain. It's a little worse this time, but this knee was in worse shape. Anyway . . .

I'm looking more at fibers. I left off fibers a while back, thinking that I just didn't have time to play with them. I might be wrong. I'm still hungering to work with wire more. I feel that if I make more of my own findings, the pieces will belong to me even more so. Of course, that might make parting with them even more difficult. Then there is metal. Geez, I love copper and bronze and etching seems not so difficult to do so I really, really want to.

But I also have to consider what I've chosen to do for a living and try to work all my little desires into the time I have left over when not coaxing little bits of glass into pleasing shapes and then writing down how to exactly that for others. And I couldn't leave those infuriating bits of melted sand if you held a gun to my head. As a result of all this musing, I've also been trying to think of ways to meld a few of the "I wants" with the tiny beads. Aha! (Believe me, it's probably much more difficult for me than it sounds.)

I'm also trying to come up with little items to stock in the Etsy store that folks might like to purchase for holiday gifts, and I've made the monumental decision to offer my patterns, tutorials and kits in the Etsy store. At this point I would like to open the floor to you, beadlings, to find out what you would like to see out of my repetoire of said patterns/tutorials/kits. Just remember that I'm still not up to full steam, so it will be a trickle of goodies, not a huge flood!

Have a beadiful weekend!

Giveaway Wednesday And Other News!

2009-10-21T10:14:00.003-05:00

So I changed the day of the week. Look, I'm lucky if I know what year it is right now! First, Cindy at Sweet Bead Studio has a little giveaway that is right up my alley. I've really been wanting to delve into more wire work and this is perfect for a beginner when it comes to just that.

Lorelei has the final Green Girl Studios giveaway -- hearts! Yum. Go leave your comment and good luck.

Can you name these beads? If you can, you might just win some. Go help Kelley out.

And one of my favorite places, Art Bead Scene, is having a book giveaway. We all know we need more beading books, and this one is from my pal Marcia DeCoster!

Babies: Natalie was supposed to be able to hold Marshall for the first time last night. I'm waiting for an update and new pictures. Max is in the intermediate care nursery now. His next step will be to actually nurse. He's rooting and trying to tell everyone he's ready.

Knee: I'm just waiting on my therapist for today's torture session.

Beady stuff: Little feelings of creativity are surfacing. I just need to be able to sit up without becoming utterly exhausted. Here's a hint, kids, when your doctor says to take it easy he really means it. When you end up overdoing, you kind of slide bassackwards. Know what I mean? (but I would do it again in a heartbeat!)

Life Is A Roller Coaster

2009-10-16T10:47:00.004-05:00

Well, my impatient little grandsons are here, 10 weeks early. They came Tuesday morning, just could not wait until Thanksgiving. They barely waited until Nonnie got out of the hospital! That's Max on top, he's older by six minutes. Then there is Marshall, who gave us all quite a scare but now he's just fine. And Natalie is fine, but tired. They weight around 3.5 pounds, but Marshall is now just over 4 pounds! They will both be off ventilators today, and breathing on their own with just the CPAP for help. And they can now both be held by their mommy and daddy. Max looks like Natalie, and Marshall looks like Bryan. We are just all so happy that there are not enough words. Bear with me for a while as my beady blog gets taken over by baby news.

The knee is fine, but I'm exhausted. This is the first day I've had to relax since I was discharged Sunday. I need to take stock of where I am in the beady scheme of things since life has been a big series of ups and downs this week. I cannot believe it's already Friday. I'll try to get back on track this weekend and intersperse some beady stuff with babies next week. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I know I will!

I Found Another Fab Giveaway

2009-09-24T13:01:00.002-05:00

Are you a patient beader/artist? Run over to Beads of Clay to read Kristie's treatise on patience and enter for a chance to win one of her gorgeous pendants.

What A Giveaway!

2009-09-24T08:34:00.004-05:00

Apparently my dear friend Carol Dean Sharpe made a boo-boo, and in doing so she was left with a gorgeous mistake which she is so very generously offering to give away. She has a gorgeous purple and gold bracelet up for grabs. Go check it out! Her generosity abounds!

Changed My Mind . . .

2009-09-23T17:53:00.001-05:00

It is my prerogative, right?

Surprise!!

2009-09-23T16:55:00.000-05:00

It's not finished yet. Almost, but not quite finished. Stay tuned.

Rain, Rain, Rain, Rain, Rain

2009-09-22T08:31:00.004-05:00

Of course it's raining. Duh. We gave Bella a bath last night. Now she can go out and get her pretty blond hair muddy. Sheesh. We have had a lot of rain overnight. Taking the girls to school this morning I drove over a low water crossing that the water was just starting to cover. Fortunately it's not a running stream with any force. It's just a dip in the road, but I'm thinking we may have to use a different route tomorrow morning.

Here is a very cool link that I came across thanks to Suzanne Cooper. I agree with Suzanne's observation that beaders have been doing all of these for years, so we're a step ahead of the trend.

Lorelei is hosting the FIFTH Green Girl Studios giveaway. Hurry over and leave your comment to be entered.

And now I must be off. I'm moving on to the next teaching sample. Yes, pictures will be posted as soon as allowed. I had a bit of frustration yesterday. I thought I had the perfect ending for a piece I had been working on. I originally designed it as a bracelet and had just the right amount of supplies, but it would have been too similar to something that Kim Stathis had designed and I really hate stepping on the toes of other designers and teachers so it became a necklace. Unfortunately, I was eight little beads short of finishing the embellishment. On the upside, this one is not due until January so I have time to get to my favorite area Swarovsk pusher, Mica Jewelry and Beads in San Antonio. Today is a gemstone and seed bead kind of day in red, rosy red fading to paler shades. I know. It's totally unlike me, right? It's almost as unusual as orange! And on that note I leave you. Keep on beading on, beadlings!

Busy Bee

2009-09-21T08:39:00.002-05:00

That's me! I have so much to do. I really need a replicator. I realized it had been a week since my last blog, but I'm really trying to not spread myself too thin right now. I've been beading and knitting and knitting and beading. I'm trying to get a lot of beading done before the next surgery date and trying to get some things knitted in time for the grandbabies.

In the meantime, we are enjoying exceedingly mild weather. I actually heard someone on the radio this morning make the statement that since we didn't break the record of 69 days with temps over 100° that our brutal summer was all for nothing. Tell me, if we had broken said record what would we have received? I'm just curious.

Lost My Sketchbook???

2009-09-14T10:37:00.004-05:00

Actually, it's an IDEA book and I truly cannot find it. I have others, with better and more recent ideas, but I shudder to think that maybe the perfect project is in the oldest idea book. I'm trying to move on and look at more recent sketches and notes.

As a result of this misplacement, I've walked all over the house three times already. I've driven to school and back twice because someone forgot her lunch. I've walked the yard with the animal control officer (stupid stray dog got into T-man's garden!), and now my legs are threatening to go on strike. Fortunately, sifting through the idea notebooks can be done with my feet up. Did I tell you I've been up since 6:30? And you KNOW I'm not a morning person.

Let's go back to ideas. Hmm. I've got an elegant, gorgeous rosy pink WIP, an almost formal bronze UFO and grapes on two different vines waiting to be plucked. I've got an old favorite with a new and improved execution as well as some old standards that will eventually be scooped up as the perfect workshop. I've also got some one hour faves to send off to some of my favorite people in San Antonio. Add to this mix a scheduled surgery date AND the arrival of two very important little boys! And oh my stars, it's only Monday.

More Giveaways!

2009-09-09T11:26:00.003-05:00

Did you think I'd forgotten? Nah, I was just waiting. And yes, I need to put together my own giveaway -- I have not forgotten that, either. I just need to be able to get to some of the stash (Jennifer asked about a destash giveaway, and since I won the earrings from her I thought that might appropriate).

Beverly Herman is giving away a lovely bracelet created by none other than herself. If you've never seen Bevvie's work in person, you are missing out on some great eye candy.

Lorelei is having the fourth Green Girl Studios giveaway. There is still time to enter and win beautiful beads and charms.

And this chart from Fire Mountain Gems is just too handy. Download it as a .PDF to keep on your computer. It's FREE! (that makes it a giveaway!)

I'm working on a kit I bought a couple of years ago from Beads East a couple of years ago. I felt like learning a little something different and honing old skills. I've got four new pair of earrings to take photos of and put in the Etsy shop, but *gasp* it is cloudy and RAINING today! And while this is a welcome change (it MIGHT get to 90° today), it makes for poor photo ops. Oh well! Rain, rain, rain! If my knee were healed a little more, I might go do a dance in it! Bead on, beadlings!!

Pool!

2009-09-07T12:02:00.003-05:00

I climbed that ladder. Getting in was a bit more difficult than getting out was, but while I was in I kind of overdid it. No, I really overdid it. It felt so deceptively good to be able to move with ease that I just kept going. I know now that I should do only a fraction of what I did. But it felt so good! Last week I made a decision to NOT visit the Austin Bead Society's bead bazaar. It was a wise decision, based on both the pool fiasco and the drive to my parent's house Saturday. The ride in the car has left me stiff and achy. Crapola, I'm so impatient that it's almost funny. The funnier part is that this Friday I hope to schedule the date for the other knee! Hey, I've got to be fixed by Thanksgiving! I've got special guests this year!!

I managed to make two almost missed deadlines just under the wire. In GG's words, I "stitched like the wind!" I'm still blaming the near miss on pain meds. But, photos and bio got emailed, two additional color palette samples got finished and mailed off. All that's left is to wait and see how many students sign up for the classes and then the fun begins -- kit making! Woo hoo!

I hope you had a great weekend. I know we did.

Happy Birthday, Natalie!

2009-09-03T12:17:00.009-05:00

She's 21 today. I've always said she's the child I did by myself. I think I did a pretty good job, if I may say so.

She's pretty, she's compassionate, she's intelligent, she's funny, she's loving.

In about 10 weeks, she's going to be a mom herself.

We've had to give her to someone else, who loves her as fiercely as we do.

But she will always be my baby bird. I love you, Natalie. Happy birthday!!

Just Keeps On Getting Better Every Day

2009-08-27T12:50:00.003-05:00

I'm sore, but I'm walking. I'm taking Bella out, which means walking down and then back up four stairs. This weekend I'll get back into the pool. Yippee! I'm doing my exercises and I can tell it's making a big difference. I'm actually ready to have the other knee fixed now. What a great doctor I have! By the way, there is no scar! I may just have to have pictures to show you. My biggest problem is being house-bound. Ugh.

So, 13 years ago T-man and I said our "I do's". Seems like just yesterday. I can honestly say I've never felt this way about any other man in my life, and it just keeps on getting better every day! Here's a nose-thumb to all the naysayers who swore it would never last. Thpbbbbbbt!

Cool Tool!

2009-08-25T10:38:00.002-05:00

Check out this very cool color tool!
Online Tool: Color Palette Generator

Posted using ShareThis
More later!

Friday Fun Stuff

2009-08-21T11:38:00.006-05:00

Digital eye candy here. Just when I think I've found a favorite, something else pops up!

I found this while reading Jennifer's blog. What a cool way to see yourself on the World Wide Web. Here is my digital history. Click on the picture to see full size:

Everyone's favorite catalogue must be J. Peterman, right?

And I'm wishing I had one of these right now. How cool is this? We should all channel our inner artistic child!

Well, beadlings, my physical therapist worked me pretty hard yesterday and I'm feeling every minute of his visit. Today I'm knitting baby wraps for the boys. I'll keep putting earrings together and I'll bet I take a nap in just a couple of hours. I'm really ready to get back to my original work style but I can't push too hard, lest I backslide. I hope you all have a great weekend!

Walk, Walk, Walk

2009-08-20T11:50:00.003-05:00

Hey there, beadlings! How are you? I've missed you. Me? I'm great. It's one week after surgery and I can actually walk short distances without assistance. About an hour ago, I walked over to the earring-making table and put something together. I'll go finish them later.

Being in the hospital for almost week was not much fun. I had little computer access, which was really frustrating. BUT I had a wonderful roommate who reminded me of my late grandmother and I had wonderful nurses and aides who made my stay a little more enjoyable. I'm told that when I go back in a few weeks for the other knee that I'll receive VIP status. Now if I could just get gourmet meals next time, I'd be a happier camper. I've had a visit from the home health care nurse who was amazed at my mobility and today the home health care physical therapist will come by. I feel so special. My nurse actually makes jewelry herself, so we actually had things in common other than my knee. She also travels with doggy treats in her bag, so she made an instant friend in Bella.

I need to put together a giveaway, but it may be a couple of weeks since I'll need to be able to dig through the stash (yes, a destash giveaway). I'll let you know as soon as I put something together.

So there you have it. I'm home, I'm fine, I'm progressing and I'm getting back into my groove. I'm knitting baby wraps for the grandbabies, stitching Christmas stockings with their names on them, making earrings and beading bracelet samples. Who could ask for more than that? Keep on beading on!!

Today Is THE Day

2009-08-12T08:50:00.002-05:00

In a few minutes I'll be off to you know where. I just wanted to thank everyone for their well-wishes and words of encouragement. I'll try to bog again tonight. Later, beadlings!

A Must Read

2009-08-10T15:07:00.004-05:00

Please go read this post by Jeannette Cook. This is a subject near to my heart and I think Jeannette expresses the thought of most of us bead artists (or any other artist for that matter).

Monday Giveaway Alert

2009-08-10T12:29:00.006-05:00

Lorelei has another nifty giveaway today. I love owls. In fact, I recently received a little owl shipment of my own albeit they were nothing like these being given away by Lorelei.

Carol Dean Sharpe has a cute giveaway on her blog and all you have to do is name your beading hero(ine).

Don't forget that every Saturday Art Bead Scene has a giveaway in conjunction with their artists' Studio Saturday.

Objects and Elements has a reader's challenge. Enter and you could win some goodies from their store!

Two days left. Ugh. Wednesday is just two days away. Nervous? Yes. Stressed? Yes. Rethinking decisions to do this? Possibly, but I'm pretty sure this is the best thing to do. Ugh. Keep on beading on, beadlings.

Quickness!

2009-08-07T08:23:00.002-05:00

Short blog for you today. Pam sent me an email reminding me that I had not updated! I do apologize. All is well with the clan. Natalie is home on bed rest after a short hospital stay. Both babies are fine with good strong heart beats and they have started kicking. Her due date is still Christmas day, but Thanksgiving babies may be more of a reality.

I'm still trying to come up with a giveaway to celebrate my own win. I cannot wait to see my new earrings in person.

Today means more doctor's visits. Surgery is just five days away. I've got lots of strengthening do to between now and then. Ugh -- I hate that part of all of this, but I'm burning those calories! Have a great weekend.

I Won! You Know What That Means . . .

2009-08-04T08:29:00.003-05:00

Do you remember the fabulous earrings and pendant bead that Jennifer at Glass Addictions was giving away? Well, yours truly won those fab earrings! So, in the spirit of paying it forward, I'll have to come up with a giveaway of my own. Destash? Earrings crafted by me? Peyote pattern? Scissors fob? Give me some ideas please.

I've got Ariel and the neighbor girls hooked on making earrings now. It's great. I took them all bead shopping yesterday (exhausting!). They made GREAT choices in beads. Then I taught their mom how to make the wraps on the eye pins and head pins. We made four pair here, then she went home to finish them up. I'll get her to bring them over, and this time I promise the pictures will be better.

I have my visit with the bone wizard today. If (IF) my blood pressure is down, the surgery is still schedule for the 12^th. If not, then we look at the 19^th. In the meantime, Natalie has been put on bed rest until the babies come.
(Mom)"Do you want me to teach you how to knit or crochet or cross stitch?"
(Daughter)"No, I don't want to do those things. I don't want to be in bed
(Mom)"You'll need to do something so you don't get too bored."
(Daughter)'heaves great big sigh'

Later that same day:
(Daughter)Maybe I should learn how to do those things. Then I could make things for my babies later.
(Mom)'secret, happy smile'

Wish me luck, beadlings! I'll come up with a giveaway for you in the next couple of days. YOU! Yes, you -- keep beading on.

Let's Start The Week With A Giveaway

2009-08-03T08:58:00.003-05:00

Go check out Treasures Found and you might receive your own treasure!

I'll find some more later and post again. Today is Erday, after all.

What Did You Do On Sunday?

2009-08-02T14:15:00.003-05:00

Me - "Okay, you can make three pair of earrings each."
Them - "THREE?"
Me - "Three. And these are the beads you can choose from."
Them - "OMG!"

Ariel - "I like these!"
Katie - "I think I like these!"

And now you know what I did on Sunday! Fun, fun, fun!

Aching For Lime Green

2009-07-30T12:15:00.003-05:00

Please notice the double entendre in the title! HAH! I was doing my usual surf this morning and it suddenly occurred to me that I wanted something lime green. I've had two patterns sitting, waiting to be executed, both using lime green with some other nifty accents. I've got some pattern samples finished except for the clasps. I suppose it's time to start stitching.

I've set things up in the living room in anticipation of recuperation time. Wire and chain work over there, seed beads next to the couch. There are a few things that I'll still need out of the bead room. As I start organizing a little more I'll add them to the work stations. I'm just trying to make sure everything is at the ready when the time comes. I also plan to have at least one project that can travel to the hospital with me.

I find myself wanting to learn some new things -- metal etching, wire work, chain maille. Why? I can't stop learning. I'm just wired that way I guess.

Did anyone win any of the giveaways this week? My goodness, it was awesome to see so many at one time. Dontcha just love it? Keep searching. If you find one that I haven't seen, let me know so I can post it.

13 days and counting!

What? Another Giveaway??

2009-07-29T12:56:00.002-05:00

You betcha! My friend Heather is having a giveaway. Hop on over!

Just a drive by for now. I'll be back later with a real blog post. In the meantime, go sign up for these freebies! I expect to see your posts on all of them, beadlings.

And Yet ANOTHER Giveaway!

2009-07-28T11:45:00.003-05:00

Yep, your cup runneth over this week. Have you seen Jennifer Cameron's blog Glass Addictions? Well, Jennifer is having a giveaway and she is giving away some of her gorgeous beads. Get on over there and compete with me, because I REALLY want those earrings!

More later. Going to see the bone wizard today. 16 days.

Keep Checking Those Giveaway Links

2009-07-27T21:53:00.002-05:00

Here's another one for you, but you better act quick. This one ends at midnight Tuesday. Or would that be Wednesday? Either way, you have just a little over 24 hours. La Bella Joya is giving away a gorgeous beaded bracelet and all you have to do is comment and offer advice. Hop on over and check it out! Me? I've commented and I'm going to bed soon! ¡Hasta mañana en la mañana, beadlings!

Are You Checking For Giveaways?

2009-07-27T08:22:00.007-05:00

Giveaway alert! Go visit Lorelei to see what's happening today. Note that in the title of her post she says "No. 1". Hmmm. What could that mean? I think we should keep checking back! Oh, look! There on the right. She has a SCHEDULE!

Today is chock full of stuff to do HOWEVER it is all being done inside the house! Yep, no Erday here today. It's just plain old Monday. Too bad I can't say the same for the rest of the week. 17 days and counting. (I've decided to bead my cane!) Keep on beading on, beadlings!

Cool Link

2009-07-26T11:58:00.004-05:00

It's not really beady, but it's pretty cool: 50 Things Everyone Should Know How To Do. I'm still reading!

I'll have new bead/jewelry/art links later in the week. Enjoy your Sunday. Are you keeping up with the giveaways? Better go check!

You're Back!

2009-07-24T16:01:00.002-05:00

You're all back! All my followers are back! Woot!! How nice to see you all again!

No new stuff here. SSDD. T-man is going to pull some stuff out of the "studio" for me to have on hand as I gear up for d-day (or s-day if you prefer). This weekend will be spent doing family stuff, very low key. Remember, the choice word for the next week is R-E-L-A-X.

Have a beady weekend.

What's Going On?

2009-07-23T13:00:00.003-05:00

I notice that my followers have all disappeared. From what I can tell, you must now go into your Google dashboard and add my blog manually. We might have to start again from scratch. It kind of irks me, but what is a girl to do? So, if you don't mind, please go back in and add Bead-Mused to your list of followed blogs.

August 12^th gets closer and closer, and in the meantime I'm supposed to RELAX. Yeah, right. So what did I do Tuesday afternoon? I fell again, right down onto both knees. I tripped (over what, I have no idea) and down I went. I bruised my wrist, my foot, my knees and, of course, wrenched the back a bit. Do you know what pain does to your blood pressure? That's right, kids. It makes your blood pressure soar, and so do pain killers. What a quandary. So, the word for the week is R-E-L-A-X.

I suppose some of you might say "But T, doesn't beading relax you?" HAH! Okay, maybe it does. Sometimes it does. On occasion, it has been know to relax me and that's all I will admit at this point. I'll think about it.

Must Do

2009-07-21T11:03:00.005-05:00

Photo by Lisa Stegall
Two things I must do today. I must start beading the color option samples for Autumn Blooms and I must do my physical therapy exercises. The first entails hunting down those beads I had picked for the two options and the second entails sweat, pain and tears. Both will probably result in a bit of frustration. What I really, really want to do is sit and read, but if I don't use these muscles (both the beading and the thighs), no progress will be made on either front. So, I'm off to hunt down some bits of glass and then set up my little gym. I'll have updates tomorrow. Bead on, beadlings!

Birthday Girl

2009-07-17T08:58:00.006-05:00

I cannot believe she's twelve. It seems like just yesterday we were rushing to the doctor's office and then over to the hospital to help her into the world one month early. At that point, she had been trying her best for the previous two months to make her grand entrance. The impatience has not changed one little bit!

Apparently, there is a shiny purple bicycle being picked up and sleep-over planned for the day. I understand that an order has been placed for T-man to fix hamburgers and apparently I am expected to pick up an ice-cream cake, candles, banner, chips, dip, pancake supplies, and party favors.

Happy 12^th birthday, AriRo!

Totally Not Beads Today (Well, Not Totally)

2009-07-14T18:34:00.007-05:00

First, the heat has really been wreaking havoc with me and my schizoid body. I don't handle daily headaches well, I'm irritable and cranky and just not fun to be around. Ugh -- mean mommy. Then the cable connection just died this morning. No warning. It was there and then it was gone. We have the phone through the Internet, my computer runs off the Internet; my television is fed by the Internet and apparently so is my 12-year old. It was a rocky morning, but still salvageable.

Ariel helped me pull some things out of the soon-to-be bead studio and we set up a little work station to put together some more earrings. Everything I need to sort, assemble and finish all in one handy spot.

Then we realized that I just have to take it all down again on Friday to prepare for her birthday party. Harrumph. Grumble, grumble. Harrumph. Oh well, it's easily done.

And to top my day off, I went back to the bone doctor to tell him I've decided to let him do his thing. I will know the definite date for the first knee surgery by the end of this week, and I start "pre-hab" as soon as I call tomorrow and make the first appointment. I'm still looking at this with trepidation but I also know everything will be better by the end of the year. The thought of walking without pain is still exceedingly appealing. And instead of a lollipop, T-man got me a Blizzard. Hot day, cold ice cream! Yes!! Is there anything better than that?

Why Seed Beads?

2009-07-10T09:53:00.008-05:00

So, Marcia had a great question today: Why seed beads? Why do we choose tiny, infuriating bits of glass as our medium?

Have you noticed that most of us who work with seed beads are not exactly known for being patient? Take note the next time you are in a group of seed bead fanatics. Take me for instance. I am hardly patient. When I want something I want it NOW. I want results immediately, yesterday even. I like easy recipes that have little prep time and almost no cook time. I speed read, skimming the pages. But I can take the time (anywhere from two hours to six weeks) to work with the tiniest beads to create something like this:

Comment: Oh my gosh, you must have really good eyes.
Response: I just use very good lighting while I work and wear my glasses.
Comment: How long does it take?
Response: Well, that depends on what I'm doing, how I'm feeling and how many mundane interruptions occur.
Comment: Wow, you must have a lot of patience!
Response: See above.

Why do I love seed beads? Have you looked at the color choices available to us today? Delicas® alone are available in almost 900 colors! That kind of boggles the mind, doesn't it? I also love the fact that I can take that little bit of glass, a needle and thread and then make the most luscious creation:

If you work with seed beads, tell us why. Why did you choose them? Why do you stay with them? Could you live without them?? Inquiring beaders would like to know!

Labors Of Love

2009-07-09T10:15:00.004-05:00

I have had a small "to-do" list this week, each item a labor of love -- a beadwork submission, a letter of reference and a birthday gift. I'm submitting piece for a challenge that, if I win, will result in publication. Yes, it's true, I've done it. I spent several hours crafting a letter of reference for one my dearest friends (by the way, she has started blogging again). Lest you think she is searching for a new job, relax. It was just a formality for her current position. And I'm going to make a special birthday gift for a friend who was lost and has come back. We've both learned not to listen to others, but to our own hearts. I'm glad to have her back in my life. I'll have pictures of her gift AFTER she opens it. And I have completed two out of the three items! I love crossing things off the list.

Otherwise, life is a lot of "wait and see" right now, full of appointments with various doctors. Next week I'll have dates for when what gets done. Ugh. I'm not looking forward to the process, but I eagerly anticipate the results. Not exactly the changes I had in mind, but it's a "step" (ha-ha) in the right direction.

Erday A Day Early

2009-07-05T21:13:00.002-05:00

I'll actually be out of pocket tomorrow (Erday, or Monday for the rest of you). My friend Mrs. B must be taken to the dentist's office, and I told her it would be no problem. The only "problem" is that she could not get an appointment on Friday when she really needed it! It's not a bad way to spend my birthday, and I might just do a little LBS shopping while I'm out. (That's Local Bead Shop for the uninitiated.) Or I might come home and do some on-line shopping. Mom and Dad gave me a Visa gift card for my birthday that I can spend however I so desire and I might desire more BEADS. HAH! What a concept!!

Happy Independence Day And More

2009-07-04T07:23:00.010-05:00

Photo from Wikimedia Commons
It is 7:30 on a Saturday morning and I'm awake. I've been up since 6:00 and no, there is no fever as far as I can tell. It's just one of those mornings. The heat here has been so bad, it's just difficult to cool off. While we were shopping yesterday, our air conditioner froze up again. We came home to a house that was 92°. Cooler than 106°, yes, but it was still hot. So I Google "why does my AC keep freezing" and found Energy Boomer. Lo and behold, our fan speed was set to med-low, T-man fixes that, and the house cooled off right away. It is so nice to be married to a handy DIY guy. Today, he's checking the drain. Hopefully our freeze-up situation is fixed.

I got the rest of my birthday present from T-man yesterday. Now I can make circles. And . . .

because he said I needed one. It should make punching holes easier. Also, I've got the perfect first project:

Barbe posted this a few weeks ago and I thought it was cute in a tongue-in-cheek sort of way. I can't afford to use my cards so I should do SOMETHING with them, right? I'm glad, though, that I had "custom" designs and that my cards are a little more colorful. If nothing else, I'll have fun making the bracelet.

Have fun, stay safe, be cool! I'll be back AFTER my birthday.

Something I Cannot Bead

2009-07-01T12:07:00.003-05:00

Be kind to your knees. You'll miss them when they're gone. Mary Schmich

Here's something I cannot bead -- new knees. Nope, can't make new ones, at least not new ones that will work correctly. Then again, they would probably work better than what I have.

I had an episode yesterday. One minute my "good" knee worked just fine, the next minute I was screaming, crumpling and crying in agony because it refused to bend or to straighten out completely. What? You ask "what is the problem?" No more lateral meniscus in the "bad" knee (I knew that, but it's gotten worse) and I'm losing the lateral meniscus in the "good" knee. What? "What causes this?" No one knows what causes it, but the doctor suggested having chosen poorly in the grandparent/parent area (things tend to be hereditary) and having the audacity to age. What? "How do they fix it?" Oh, they fix it with the "S" word. You know, that word I don't like and don't really want to mention until something is definitely decided.

So today I'm going to practice a bit of denial and make something instead of researching the procedures used to replace bits of my bone with titanium. Just call me the Six Thousand Dollar Woman. *sigh* I'll look things up tomorrow, make a few phone calls and then make a decision. Fortunately, I have a job that I can take with me to hospitals, waiting rooms, etc. And the doctor swears I should be good as new in time for the grandbabies' arrival. I better be!

Here's your question of the week: Some of you know my "beading on Vicodin" story while recovering from the first knee surgery, lo those many years ago (ooooh, pretty colors!). How many of you have beaded/created while being laid up for some necessary thing that laid you up?

California Here I Come!

2009-06-30T08:25:00.009-05:00

I will be teaching this beautiful piece September, 2010 at the Embroiders' Guild of America National Seminar: Stitching on the Barbary Coast in San Francisco. I'm very excited as I have never been to California and cannot wait to see San Francisco. I'm also excited because this was my first submission to an EGA national seminar and I was accepted. I am full of trepidation because I must fly (gasp!)and because I'm going to San Francisco, California, a.k.a. earthquake central. My California friends chuckle at this.

My Leaf Lariat has become a favorite of the EGA members, and I'll be teaching it in June, 2010 at SASXXX which is the Tennessee Valley Region Seminar. I have driven through the "panhandle" of West Virginia, which took about 15 minutes, but the scenery was breathtaking. All I could think was "Almost heaven, West Virginia . . . ". I cannot wait to see more of that state.

Also in June, 2010 I have Oh, Straighten Up! with the South Central Region (my home region of the EGA) for "Stitchin' Safari" in Dallas, Texas. Dallas is close enough to be home, but it will still be fun. These are not in date order. In fact, they are reversed but that's okay -- this was the only way the blog title made sense!

After my after noon in the heat yesterday, I am very thankful for the person who created air conditioning and that the universe saw fit to bestow him with the knowledge to do so. This photo was taken at 5:00 yesterday in South Austin. I definitely felt the heat, so much so that I was feeling "peckish" (as my grandmother would have said) by the time I got home. Yuck. After a big glass of ice water, some dinner and some floating in the pool, things were much better.

I'm adding a couple of new blogs for you to check out. First, there is Sweet Bead Studio with gorgeous jewelry and great reading. Don't miss the photo that Cindy's four-year old took! And then there is Susabella's Creative Pursuits full of photos, food and jewelry. Both of these ladies are very friendly and very talented. Enjoy their work and enjoy your day!

Erday

2009-06-29T10:17:00.002-05:00

I'm just going to change "Monday" to "Erday". This week on Erday, I'm driving into Austin to take my dear friend Mrs. B to the doctor for a check-up. She broke her wrist last month and can't drive. Her own children live four hours in either direction, so it's no bother for me to drive in and play chauffeur and help her with a few things she can't do for herself right now. I get rewarded with plants, trees and lily bulbs plus a beautiful friendship. She knew a lot of the same people that my grandparents and my mother knew, having spent most of her life out around the lake. It's amazing sometimes how small the world really is. She actually went to school with my mother's second cousin! She tells me stories about the lake when it was still young and clean, her late husband, her children (whom I feel I know) and her grandchildren.

I'm basking in the glory of my clean house, especially the living room and am hesitant to bring anything into it. This sucks, because right now the living room is the only place I have to work! Ack! Quandary alert!!

When I get home this evening, I'll try to grab the computer again and add some new links for you. I've found some very pretty, very arty sites with lots of info and eye candy.

I'm off for now. Bead on!

New Link And Giveaway

2009-06-27T10:07:00.002-05:00

You know I love giveaways! Check out Sweet Bead Studio. Cindy has redesigned her blog and it rocks, her jewelry is drop-dead gorgeous, and she's giving away fabulous prizes. I love it. Everything on her page is just gorgeous.

I've been drug kicking and screaming into the techno toy age. Next week you can start following me on Twitter as well as Facebook (or click on the Facebook badge at the lower right-hand side of this page). Details to follow. I must run. I need to clean up soem bead mess since Kay and her B-man are coming for dinner and cards tonight, and it's been way too long since we've done that. Have a great weekend, beadlings!

Everything Is Peachy Keen!

2009-06-25T11:07:00.005-05:00

I'm busy adding items to the Etsy shop this week. That means lots of work with the camera, which is nothing but frustrating for me. Oh well, I'll get over it. There is just so much to photograph! I've been very remiss and have ignored my little enterprise for way too long. These are my Peachy Keen Earrings, now available.
I've also added the $5.00 tutorial for my Fields of Gold Bracelet, aka Wild Blue and Purple Haze. To those of you who have responded, thank you so much for your comments and support. When it comes to things like this, it's nice to know we all really do stick together. Beaders and jewelry designers rock! ♥

Angry And Working On It

2009-06-24T11:34:00.005-05:00

So the LBS has changed one of the pictures for the bracelet class, making it look a little less like my Fields of Gold, HOWEVER, it is still the same bracelet and I am still offering you the instructions for only $5.00. All you have to do is email me at theresa AT tbuchle DOT com and we can do a Pay Pal transaction, after which you will receive a wonderful PDF for your use. Be sure to include the email address you use for your Pay Pal transactions. In the meantime, I'm taking photos to add goodies to my Etsy store and trying to stay cool. I sincerely hope no one else is melting!

Still Pissed, Or SSDD

2009-06-22T11:52:00.004-05:00

I'm still very angry. Read Saturday's blog post. Many, many thanks to all of the beaders who have been so generous in their support. I will keep you updated. In the meantime, I'm putting together instruction packets for a few sales and it's going up in my Etsy store later today. If you would like your very own copy, please email me at theresa AT tbuchle DOT com.

Bitchy, Vindictive Me Who Does Not Want To Play Nice

2009-06-20T13:29:00.006-05:00

I AM PISSED!!
Would you like VERY INEXPENSIVE instructions to this bracelet with color keys for the peacock/gold, blue and purple variations? Yes, I said ROCK BOTTOM CHEAP.

Now, I don't happen to have a picture of the purple variation, but trust me when I tell you that it was eye-catching. This bracelet is full of physical and visual texture. You will learn square stitch, basic fringing and color shading with my easy to follow instructions.

It seems that a local bead store has started teaching my bracelet (by the way, it's the only one around here that teaches seed bead techniques). I'm sure that the teacher thought that if she (1) made it a bit more narrow, (2) changed the colors and/or (3) added a fourth color plus (4) changed the clasp that it would be okay, because, hey, she changed 10% of the original. What a crock! In case you have not learned by now, that is a total myth. It does not matter how much you change, unless you have permission from the creator of the work (and this means the written instructions or the finished piece), it's a violation of FEDERAL LAW. AND this store apparently has no qualms about teaching the work of others without permission. This is something I made sure never happened in my store. If a teacher didn't own the copyright or have permission from the owner (and yes, I asked to see WRITTEN permission), it wasn't taught in my store.

So now you can have, for A MERE $5.00, my copyrighted instructions. You get clear, easy-to-read instructions with full color graphics plus a large easy-to-read graph for color shading of THREE or FOUR colors (yes, these are the original instructions). In addition, you will receive exact purchasing info for the Toho beads used in this beautiful creation. That means you get the color numbers and the amount you will need of each color. I always receive compliments when I wear this bracelet. It is as much fun to make as it is to wear. $5.00 means no teacher fees, which is a substantial savings to you. In fact, it is a savings of $30.00 plus whatever gas you need to get there. Want more information or want to buy the pattern (downloadable PDF or I'll mail hard copies to you), contact me via email at theresa AT tbuchle DOT com. This is not a limited-time offer. It is offered until they stop teaching my bracelet and probably a little longer afterward.

Oh Happy Day

2009-06-18T12:36:00.007-05:00

This is my happy face self-portrait. No, I am not an artist but I like to play. Why I am I this happy? Read to the end of the blog (no, don't skip or scan, read the blog).

I have two new blog links to share with you. First is the lovely Lisa Peters. I've got four items from Lisa, which will all be put to good use in the following months. Second is the marvelous MaryLou Holvenstot. And I would not know of either of these two ladies without my cyber friend Carol Dean Sharpe. I got to meet Lisa in person at Bead & Button, but missed MaryLou -- our paths just never crossed. As for Carol Dean, we're working on a face to face. These are three very talented ladies and I'm very glad to have made their acquaintance, even if it is only virtual. Have you hugged a cyber friend today?

I still have earrings screaming to be made but I also need to do MASSIVE house cleaning! It's really too bad I can't do both.

Your mission for the day: Check out the web site and blog links I've provided for you. There are some giveaways, some art news, some great tutorials and lots of inspiration. Take a few minutes and surf.

I now have pants that can be removed without use of button/zipper. And Clara will be coming soon to take new pictures. Okay, enough personal stuff.

Wednesday is for . . .

2009-06-17T11:37:00.004-05:00

Well, this week it is for groceries. We have a new "farmers" market in Austin called Newflower Farmers Market and we've been shopping there lately. I don't need to buy veggies anymore, but their meat is great and the fruit has such great prices it's unbelievable. And to top it off, Wednesday is "double ad" day, so whatever was featured in last week's ad is also featured in this week's ad. And we all know that money saved on groceries is money that gets spent on things like more new flooring, paint, furniture, turning the A/C down to 68°.

So, after I get home from the market, I'm going to make an assembly line for earrings. I'll set out ear wires, beads, head pins, chain, etc. Then I'll start putting some things together. And when T-man gets home, we'll float for a bit to cool off before dinner. I am into things cool right now, but salad gets boring. I found this recipe last week and it was pretty good, especially with corn and tomatoes right out of our own garden. It's a simple life these days, but it's my life.

I got an early birthday present from T-man yesterday:

I've already got some great ideas for this baby! Keep on beading on, beadlings!

Oppressive Heat!

2009-06-16T09:20:00.003-05:00

The heat index yesterday in downtown Austin, where I was spending the afternoon, was 107°, which is odd since the outside thermometer on the car read 106°. I felt every degree of . . . . well, you choose one of them. Today will be the same. And the breeze out here is straight out of the south and hot and dry. Did I complain about the cold a few months ago? If I did, I take it all back. It's hard to believe that just a few days ago I was in a blustery 45° with rain in Milwaukee! I do believe it sent my entire system into shock!!

I think that today I will sit inside the cool house and make some earrings. Maybe I will take some photos. I went through the pictures of the Bead and Button road trip. Some of them are usable, most are not. Obviously, I do not know how to correctly use a camera. *sigh* I want a new one so badly, but I'm thinking I may have to take lessons when I get it!

Question: How do you keep cool when you are creating? I have a small, directional fan that I set up to blow directly on me. I'd just curl up and die without it.

Whatever you do, wherever you are, I hope you keep cool today.

Giveaway Alert!

2009-06-12T11:40:00.004-05:00

Silver Parrot is giving away a ton of beads and you have until midnight tonight to sign up. Can you say "genuine emerald beads"??? Then scroll down and check out her Dark Floral Necklace -- yum! And to top it all off, there is a cool pic of Jeffery Donovan to boot. What more could y'all ask for? Oh, those? I'm working on the road trip pictures today. Later, beadlings!

Total Exhaustion

2009-06-11T10:13:00.003-05:00

I'm home. I arrived at 12:30 yesterday morning. Then I got up at 9:00 and headed to Natalie's house to pick up Ariel. Needless to say, there was a nap yesterday afternoon. I'm still feeling tired, but it will pass in a couple of days.

How do I describe Bead and Button? Wow. It was not as overwhelming at the Houston International Quilt Show, but it was still pretty big. There were quite a few people but reports from experienced attendees indicated that attendance was down as were sales. All in all, it was a pretty good weekend (barring a few unforeseen catastrophes).

I did get to visit with the fab Kate McKinnon, the wonderful Cynthia Rutledge, the marvelous Lisa Peters (I bought some of her pieces -- my B&B souvenirs), the talented Heather Powers, and the cheerful girls from Beads East. I saw friends from Austin and Houston. I also got to see the Bead Dreams entries in person as well as the Treasures of Toho competition entries and the Convergence exhibit. Wow! Otherwise, I pretty much stayed in the booth and worked, worked, worked! Carol had so many new goodies, it seemed like an endless stream of unpacking, pricing and merchandising. Then we would drive back to the hotel and collapse on the beds only to get up and do it again the next morning. I did go in search of several beaders I wanted to meet but, alas, our paths never crossed.

I have over 300 pictures to go through with a story for every one of them. Plus, Carol has some of them so there will be some swapping before I get them all posted. But there will be a great road trip pictorial! Later, beadlings!!

On The Road Again

2009-06-08T09:16:00.003-05:00

Well I've finally got Internet access again. The hotel in Milwaukee (actually in Brown Deer) did not have WiFi. Sheesh.

We are in Rockford, Illinois and on the way to Lambert's Cafe, the home of the throwed rolls for a late lunch then on to Memphis (again!) for the night. I've got so much to show and tell, but that will need to wait until I get home. I'm tired and sore and it's time to load the truck up and take off. Later, beadlings!

Elvis Was In The Building . . . .

2009-06-02T23:21:00.002-05:00

. . . and Carol had a lovely chat with him. Mississippi was a long drive, Memphis was great, Arkansas was flat, Illinois is gorgeous, the arch zipped past us (but there are pictures) and now we are on the last leg of our journey. We're pooped and it's past our bedtime!

From Southeast Texas To Jackson, Mississippi

2009-06-01T23:15:00.002-05:00

Here is your first drive-by post from the road. Carol and I are hunkered down for the night in Jackson. She tells me that tomorrow we go in search of Elvis for a lunch date before we head on into Chicago. I am pooped as I've been in a car since 8:00 this morning and we got here at 11:00 tonight. I'm very ready for a position that is NOT sitting. I've got some pictures of the big swamps along IH-10 Between Lake Charles and Baton Rouge and will try to get a few of them up here tomorrow night but right now I'm ready for bed. G'night!