Spirit Rattles

It's Begun

2012-01-18T09:31:00.001-06:00

It's that time again...Bead Soup Party Blog Hop is in the works..the participants have been chosen, the soup mixes are being selected and shipped..then it's time we get down to work.

This time the Bead Soup blog party participants were selected by a random drawing for 200 people, the previous, 4th Blog hop, was sooo enormous, that while it was ,of course, fun.. I also found it a little daunting to work my way threw all the blogs, I didn't want to be just a looker, I like to leave a comment, even if brief, to let the person know I appreciated their efforts for the Bead Soup Hop.

Nicole of N Valentine Studio will be my Bead Soup #5 partner,which is very exciting..I can't wait to see what mystery soup she sends my way..I've been studying Nicole's blog and I'm cooking up a mix just for her...I hope it will be both pleasing and challenging..because that really is the point to this event...to be sent something that you might not normally choose to work with.. The reveal of the pieces will be March 3rd, Please check back to Lori's Blog, Pretty Things on that date and prepare to see what I know will be some amazing work.

Round 2

2012-01-13T22:47:00.002-06:00

I was finally able to get the second part of my pendants fired today. Here in Houston we experienced an unexpected, Giant flood on Monday..unfortunately I had stacked my kiln shelves on the garage floor next to my kilns and the water drifted in enough to enter into that area..just enough to dampen the shelves for several days..I didn't even realize the garage had gotten water into it, because I was stranded 10miles away in a low area that had been one of the first places to flood..what was only intended to be a short trip(35 minutes) to help a friend ,ended up with me leaving home at 9am and not being able to work my way back, like a mouse in a maze, until 3pm..I must admit, my humor failed the last 30 minutes of the ordeal..at which point all I could think about was getting home even if it required me hiking several miles threw knee deep water. Well enough of that..

I'm revisiting my favorite images..birds and bees, playing around with a variety of shapes and glaze combinations..there are somethings that have potential, a few I won't try again..but all in all a good starting place.

Bead Table Wednesday...Late..

2012-01-12T09:34:00.001-06:00

I've been doing a lot of walking with the dog lately..the weather has been beautiful.
Along the way I've noticed the amazing dried seed pods still hanging onto the bare branches.. nature is the best designer..
With that inspiration,I've been making some Pod beads but didn't want them to be all neutrally and browns at the time..I'm not a "brights" person generally..but guess after all the festive decorations of the Holidays, I still needed some cheery colors..
Those bigger beads with the 2-3 colors have a larger opening at the bottom edge, a bit bell like..but quickly return to the normal thread channel..the idea was to use them as a pendant and cluster a bunch of tiny, dangling beads at that bottom opening. Funny though, my favorite bead might be that little tan shinoish one with the irregular marks in the lower right corner..guess I will be glazing some pods in neutrals after all..

5th Bead Soup Party Blog Hop

2012-01-06T15:43:00.000-06:00

This is always a fun event..Saturday will kickoff the sign up for the 5th Bead Soup Party Blog Hop..this time it will be a little different, the participants will be selected from a lottery.
Please head over to Lori's Pretty Things Blog to get all the info about the Bead Soup Party..

GoodBye 2011

2011-12-31T16:50:00.000-06:00

Good bye 2011.. get on outta here!!!
This last year was a rough one ,not only for myself, but also for so many of my friends and acquaintances. I'm sending out a wish, a hope, that this next year,2012 will be much kinder to all. That it will bring with it healing, contentment and peace of spirit.
Have a fun and safe New Year's Eve,Y'all.

Artists Helping Artist Silent Auction

2011-12-08T08:00:00.003-06:00

We have a friend in need,several artists in the blog community have decided to band together to help a fellow artist with an emergency situation . I have given a monetary donation, but would like to do more. You can help our mutual friend as well.. By bidding on this ceramic focal bracelet.

Starting bid for this unique bracelet is $18.

Please leave a comment along with your bid. If you are the winning bidder, you will receive an invoice after the close of the auction. There must be a way to contact you. If you have email preferences turned off in your profile, please leave your email.

Bidding will be open from December 8th - 11th..
ending at midnight on the 11th.

Many people are auctioning items to help out. Please visit the other artists below and place your bid on their items too!

Feel free to return here and bid again on this one of a kind bracelet.
Many thanks!

Marie Cramp http://skyejewels.blogspot.com/
Barbara Bechtel http://secondsurf.com/
Erin Fickert-Rowland http://elysianstudiosart.com/
Keirsten Giles http://www.cerebraldilettante.blogspot.com/
Andrew Thornton http://andrew-thornton.blogspot.com/
Lori Anderson http://www.lorianderson.blogspot.com/
Karen Totten http://starryroadstudio.blogspot.com/
Kristi Bowman-Gruel http://dreamsomedesigns.blogspot.com/
*Nan Emmett http://spiritrattles.blogspot.com/
Maire Dodd http://mairedodd.blogspot.com/
Amanda Cargill Austin http://www.seashoreglassgirl.com/
Janice Everett http://jlynnjewels.blogspot.com/
Rebecca Anderson http://songbeads.blogspot.com/
Shannon Iko Chomanczuk http://formysweetdaughter.blogspot.com/

Heidi Post http://expostfactojewelry.blogspot.com/

Art Bead Scene Holiday Ornament Blog Hop

2011-12-04T10:13:00.020-06:00

Welcome to the Art Bead Scene Holiday ornament blog hop.

Many thanks to Heather Powers of Humblebeads, who is hosting the Art Bead Scene blog hop, not only will you get to see some fun ornaments, but Art Bead Scene is having a giveaway as well.

The Snowflake pendant part of the ornament is glazed ceramic, Spirited Earth ( me) wire wrapped bale,with thinner wire threaded thru with little silvery seedbeads,a diamond shaped crystal dangle below has coiled brass wire base with more seedbead dangles for a little more sparkle..I'm not sure about the ribbon as a hanger but thought it might make the ornament stand out just abit more on the tree.

Please check out the lovely ornaments on the participating blogs

Humblebeads
Art Bead Scene
* The participant link doesn't seem to be working..so click on Humblebeads and that will take you to Heathers blog for an active link list.
Happy Holidays.

DAY 6 Virtual Crafts Show

2011-12-01T07:23:00.000-06:00

Wow..day 6 is here ..have you been checking out the creative people that Lori has featured in her Virtual Crafts Show this week..plus there are amazing giveaways ..
Go over to Lori's blog,Pretty Things,to meet 70 amazing crafts people and discover how to enter to win these incredible items..go on...go now..There's only one day left to leave comments, post on facebook,twitter and/or blog about this to get in on these 70 great giveaways.

Pssst I'm giving away this owl necklace from day one of the crafts show...leave a comment on Lori's blog .

4th Day Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-29T09:14:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Day 4 of the First Annual Virtual Craft Show!
7 Days, 70 Artists, GIVING AWAY 70 things.
Visit Day One, Two, and Three by clicking each number on Pretty Things blog.
I hope you'll take the time to visit these artisans' shops and blogs, too.
Here's how you win:
For each of the 7 days of the show, you get a point for each of the following (you don't have to do all four)....

Commenting on Lori's , Pretty Things blog

Facebooking
Twittering

Blogging

I'm giving away an owl necklace, check out day one on Pretty Things blog .

Day 3 Virtual Crafts Show

2011-11-28T11:18:00.000-06:00

THIRD DAY OF THE VIRTUAL CRAFT SHOW

This is the third day of the Virtual Craft Show, to find out all the ways for a chance to win one of the 70 different giveaways prizes visit Lori's blog, Pretty Things and leave a comment on Lori's website.
For more chances, tweet, post on Facebook or blog about the event . You only need to do one for an entry, but the more you do the more entries you have

This owl necklace is my donation to the giveaway.

Day 2 Virtual Crafts Show

2011-11-27T13:16:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the 2nd Day of the First Annual Virtual Craft Show!

7 Days, 70 Artists, GIVING AWAY 70 things.

Can you believe it????

Visit Day One by clicking here!
I hope you'll take the time to visit these artisans' shops and blogs, too.
Here's how you win:
For each of the 7 days of the show, you get a point for each of the following (you don't have to do all four)....
On Pretty Things Blog page
Commenting

Posting the event by:
Facebooking
Twittering
Blogging

First Annual Virtual Crafts Show

2011-11-25T23:59:00.000-06:00

From November 26 - December 3, Lori Anderson of Pretty Things Blog is hosting an online craft show featuring 70 artists/crafts people. Each day during this time, Lori will be listing all the shops and sales going on which you can view by going to her site. http://www.prettythingsblog.com/2011/11/day-1-virtual-craft-fair-giveaways.html

70 artists are participating and each one of them will have a wonderful giveaway. Many will have discounts in their shops as well. Lori's site will keep you informed of daily updates ..so keep checking into her blog for new featured shops on the virtual crafts show.
My Etsy shop, Spirited Earth will be listed and giveaways will be listed on her site from November 26 - December 3.

Advance preview of my giveaway necklace

Check out Lori's blog on Nov. 26 - Dec 3 to see how to win .
Did i say giveaways enough times..well there are 70 of them..don't miss this event..tomorrow..and all week..with a truck load of giveaways.

Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-21T11:35:00.000-06:00

Get ready....the count down has begun!

The First Annual Virtual Craft Show hosted by Lori of Pretty Things
Nov. 26th – Dec. 3rd, 2011
7 Days, 70 Artists, GIVING AWAY 70 special prizes

For the 7 days of the Virtual Craft Show, Lori's blog will be dedicated to the show. Each day will feature a variety of crafts by some amazing designers and you will also be able take at advantage of any discounts the participants may be offering. There will be numerous ways to enter to win some fun giveaways.
So mark your calendars and come visit the virtual crafts show this coming Saturday.

Cookie in a Basket

2011-11-04T10:27:00.000-05:00

This is Cookie..the little dog I found the other week( see previous post)
She is the cutest, sweetest, best dog.
I've always had larger dogs..not that I've chosen to have big dogs or any dog really or ever gone out and purposely gotten a dog..I pretty much just have to go out my front door and there's a dog waiting..What is that about Universe?
And so it was with this little bit..since I already have a house full of dogs and cats, and care taking my elderly family, I was open to finding her a new home ,especially since no one ever responded to my found dog ads ..of course she didn't look this good when I came across her.. no tags, no chip,fleas, not spayed,Dirty too..but she was socialized ..thank goodness.

Last night she decided the waste paper basket looked like a very nice bed..funny girl.
She is going to her new home this evening..just down the street..I feel like a mom with a little kid who is going on their very first sleep over..
she's been "reconditioned" ..shots, heartworm checked( neg), groomed, and CHIPPED.. while I will miss her like crazy , I am hoping she works out well in her new home..and if not...well, my door is always open Cookie.

BTW on the New Blog- Spirited Earth Studio

2011-11-02T08:53:00.000-05:00

http://spiritedearthstudio.blogspot.com/2011/11/bead-table-wednesday.html

Patinas and stuff from Fanciful Devices

2011-10-30T07:47:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to share a wonderful Blog in case you may have missed it..Fanciful Devices does amazing work, combining the most interesting bits and pieces to create fabulous jewelry. If you haven't done so, go check out her blog..
Yep, I'm shameless, that's one of my hands on her necklace.
http://fancifuldevices.blogspot.com/2011/10/hey-all.html

And Now For Something Completely Different

2011-10-27T09:59:00.000-05:00

Now that I have your attention ..I'd like to share with you something the creative host of the popular Bead Soup Party Blog Hop ,Lori Anderson,has thought up for our entertainment this time. A virtual Craft Show..are you intrigued? Well then.....
go over to Lori's blog for the full info on this blog event.
http://www.prettythingsblog.com/2011/10/no-ads-for-me-instead-first-annual.html
As with anything Lori is involved with, I can guarantee this will be FUN.

WTH?

2011-10-14T13:10:00.005-05:00

How is it possible...I found Another dog..Come on!!
This time a small Lhasa mix..I would like to trade in my animal Mojo for some money mojo, please..
And typically..collar but no tag..and not chipped...NOT CHIPPED...
It costs about the same as a good meal for 2 to get your pet CHIPPED..and the chances of having your pet returned home to you ASAP is soo much greater than if they are not CHIPPED...(stop thinkin' chocolate)
I think some people must not have the right mind set when acquiring a dog..if you are not in a position to have another kid..then don't get a dog..while I know that's a bit of an extreme statement.. in truth,dogs do take a lot of time and money and are a big responsibility.. they are not toys that can be thrown away when your interest has waned..they do have feelings...really
Perhaps I will start a "get it off my chest"/rant Friday..like Andie Roonie's commentary for 60 Minutes..
ok, onward to the weekend Y'all
Happy Friday.. hope everyone has a great beading weekend..XO

BTW..

2011-10-12T09:59:00.000-05:00

This BTW is about multi-tasking,photoing the remnants from the latest firing, making beads and glazing bisque for the the next kiln firing. I've been playing around with some new glazes and finally starting to find my way..they are more gloss than my usual style of pendant but i like that they can be layered to get a more complex surface ..see the little flower discs, the brown angel in the right corner and the rosy Buddha in the upper corner,those are all done with the new glazes.

I will not abandon my good ol' familiar glazes..but it's fun to try something new.

Waiting for the Sun

2011-10-09T10:45:00.000-05:00

Humming "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow" waiting for some sunshine in order to take photos for Etsy listings... since my computer crash this last month and the patch-up, I am pretty sure my computer has become possessed by evil spirits..blogger hates me..it's all working differently, can't comment on some blogs..I'm still reading, have been lurking..but it's some darn cookie issue.. and the settings on my own blog are weird... the paragraph settings are strange now. As I've mentioned before, I'm so Low Tech as to be No-tech , I don't go making changes or fool around with the computer as I KNOW I will mess it up worse than before..ugh...

Also Facebook hates my computer now,too...OK, after that Whine-arama ,I will show you a photo of the latest beads out of the kiln..some of these are interesting, using new glazes that I'm mostly happy about..Normally I use a technique that I developed using a sort of majolica effect with Non majolica glazes. It involve lots of glaze layering ..these new glazes also are layered..still unpredictable..but that's what I prefer as it keeps the process interesting for me..each pendant is somewhat different, even if they are of the same basic design.. it's a bit like Xmas when you open the kiln..some times its a Yahoo moment ..other times more of a What the heck happened in here.

Lots of Autumn designs,owls, squirrels, acorns, some dia de los muertos skulls and bird on vine pendants

Tips for a successful consignment by Bird on a Half-hard Wire

2011-09-29T08:35:00.001-05:00

http://jlhjewelry.blogspot.com/2011/09/tips-for-successful-consignment.html
This post about consignment was very informative, if you are considering selling your jewelry pieces in a shop or gallery this might be a good read..check it out.

Bead Soup Party Reveal

2011-09-17T10:18:00.008-05:00

Many thanks to our wonderful host Lori Anderson for putting on this Ginormus Bead Soup Party blog hop..we have a staggering number of participants this time ..get ready to be amazed at the varied pieces these creative people have put together with their soup mixes.

I received an interesting mix of soup from my partner Nancy Peterson of Beading from the Heart blog.
The necklace uses the focal from Golem Studio, the little white star beads and the silver knot clasp which i darkened with hot boiled egg to take off the brightness as i wanted to use a dark wire for the wraps. It's difficult to tell but the focal is suspended from a forged U shaped steel wire threaded with the turquoise rounds,this keeps the large focal from sliding around all over the necklace.

This is the bead soup mix I received from my partner Nancy Peterson. The red and white of the focal was not a color combo I normally work with nor is yellow..but I was drawn to those interesting enamel starfish and wanted to work them into my piece..

As I studied these beads I kept getting the vision of a Hollywood style ,1940's, Cuba/Mexico color combination like in this vintage poster...that and the Arm and Hammer logo..but this poster is much prettier to use as an inspiration.

I'm having computer issues and can't access some of my info ..so for a list of the participants in the bead soup party please click on this link to Lori's Bead Soup Blog section.

http://lorianderson-beadsoupblogparty.blogspot.com/

Bead soup party beads sent

2011-08-23T06:22:00.007-05:00

My bead soup partner emailed she's received her mix ..so here are some photos of what I sent to Nancy Peterson of Beading from the Heart blog.Nancy works with seed beads so I gave her a choice of focals..this Bee is a cabochon..also shown are Indonesian cream glass triangles and melon beads, 4mm faceted blue greens, and opaque creams,picasso druks, assorted earth toned ceramic beads,melons and rounds, handmade by me, ceramic focals and czech leaf and big faceted whiskey bead.

antiqued flower toggle

In case Nancy decided not to use the cabochon as a focal I include a second bee , a pendant.

I loved how this combination of glazes worked so well together that I'm compelled to recreate it for myself.

Bead Soup Mix

2011-08-21T11:49:00.004-05:00

My bead soup has arrived...

a lovely strong red and white focal from the amazing Golem Studio
fun, puffy ,3-d mustardy, gold edged starfish (love those)

a knotted heart silver toggle..

also 4mm whiskey facets

4mm raspberry facets
tiny pink hearts and white ones too

and some coppery glass pearls

also my partner Nancy Peterson included one of her gorgeous seed beaded bracelets...check out her blog to see some of her other wonderful work.

Bead Soup Party 2011 sneak peek

2011-08-20T12:29:00.005-05:00

This photo reminds me of that Prince song..Raspberry Beret..

Here's a little sneak at what I've sent to my partner Nancy Peterson..I'll get photos up of the soup mix she sent me later today after I get new batteries for the camera..

Before and After

2011-08-15T15:01:00.005-05:00

Today it was...No Momma weez didn't tear up your fish emulsion bottle, weez smells like rotten fish cause....hmmm..cause someone throwed a stinky fish at us...yea..that's right.

Remember this fellow from the "Look what i Found" post from about a month ago..when this sad little( big) critter found me..well look at the difference..
Before>>>>>>>>>>> After..a couple of visits to the doctor and some TLC.

That's not some strange device on the dog, it's an orange water hose.

It's Happening ..Bead Soup Party

2011-08-14T16:38:00.005-05:00

Nancy Peterson is my partner...ya!!!

For those of you who don't know about the Bead Soup Party , the wonderfully talented Lori Anderson cooked up a great idea one New Years for a Blog hop, Bead Soup Party.

The rules state you exchange a focal, clasp and some coordinating beads, sight unseen, with another participant that Lori has carefully selected for you. You have a limited amount of time to create your piece(necklace or bracelet) then on the reveal date you post a photo of your creation and the blog hopping begins. This is an amazing undertaking by our host Lori - there were over 200 participants last time and this bead soup party has 300 participants, that's a lot of people to sort thru ,contact and matchup , tons of behind the scenes work needed to set up this event. We are all so appreciative to Lori for her commitment to share this fun gathering of creative beaders.

Thanks Lori.

Check out Lori's blog here to find out more about the Bead Soup Party here.

I am partnered in this 4th Bead Soup Party with Nancy Peterson, who does amazing ,intricate pieces using seed beads. Many of you may recognize Nancy's name and jewelry from well known magazines that have published her work.

div>Please check out her Blog http://npbeading.blogspot.com/
and get ready for a crazy big blog hop in a few weeks

Bead Soup Party Sign Up..SOON

2011-07-22T13:02:00.005-05:00

The next "Bead Soup Blog Party" sign up is next month..that's just a little over a week..
This is an event not to be missed.
The last Bead Soup Party blog hops have been amazing with participants from all over the world..

It's a wonderful way to meet new beaders ..and view the incredible work these folks make from the surprise packets they receive.
To read more about The Bead Soup Party and our hostess, Lori Anderson , check out her blog.. Pretty Things.

I had in mind to be a painter..but ceramics got me instead

2011-07-07T00:56:00.005-05:00

From this .....

To this....

I started on my creative journey as a painter, which was my major in college..but switched over to ceramics..though i did continue to paint from time to time..

I love Gauguin and did a few paintings inspired by his colors and subject matter..

A dear friend inherited a rather large painting when i moved to Houston and the truth is I'd pretty much forgotten what it actually looked like..so she was kind enough to send a photo..

thought i would share it with you.

Design Seeds Blog

2011-06-24T09:14:00.002-05:00

design seeds: tulip hues: "{tulip hues}"
I've just discovered design seeds..what wonderful color combinations you will find on this blog.

Wish i had known about DS when I was working on this bracelet last night..

This ceramic bead bracelet is the result of avoidance behavior/loss of focus, while attempting to sort and organize my pack rat's nest of beading supplies.. a little cache of odds and ends ceramic beads was unearthed and I began Playing..not working.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-06-08T09:15:00.003-05:00

It is Wednesday isn't it..I've not been keeping up with BTW lately..dealing with my elder family's health issues has been a priority all spring..and now we are entering summer..
Plus..what is up with my glazes..they've been cantankerous this week,UGH!! really dislike doing refires..especially when it's essentially the whole kilns worth of work.
Most of these improved with the second firing..but a few will be culled and redone a 3rd time...maybe..

Look What I Found

2011-05-27T10:45:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I wonder WHY every lost animal in the vicinity finds ME!
Then I wonder why people don't try a little more to take care of their pets..

First Spay and Neuter and do not be a backyard breeder..find some other way to make a few extra dollars ....there are just too many nice animals that need homes. Not to sound preachy..but my dad was a veterinarian..so we saw a lot of sad cases...get shots, heartworm meds and how about getting the dog chipped..believe me, it makes getting your pet back home to you much more likely..our Humane society charges about $30. most people will spend that on eating out in a weeks time..

Thanks to PetCare Express and my wonderful neighbor who volunteers at the city animal shelter, we got this guy checked out and some meds for his skin condition

( fortunately not too bad) and hopefully in a few weeks we'll be able to find him a lovely new home.

Melinda Orr's wire gauge reminder

2011-05-08T07:35:00.002-05:00

Most of you jewelry folk undoubtedly know this by heart but i liked the chart Melinda shared showing how the different wire gauges could/should be used,
so I'm sharing this link with you and posting it here as a place i can find it again when i need to copy it..ha..printer down right now.
http://orrtec.blogspot.com/2011/05/wire-gaugeschoosing-right-wire.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OrrtecDesignsPotteryJewelry+%28Orrtec+Designs+Pottery+%26+Jewelry%29

Bundling Beads

2011-04-22T11:01:00.006-05:00

I've been making clay beads for some time but resisted making any to sell in the Etsy shop..

however several of my customers wanted beads to work in with the pendants they had purchased at the Etsy, Spirited Earth shop and continued to encourage me to get busy soo i gave in...
Now i'm wondering what was wrong with my Noggin' that i didn't do this before..

i love making the beads..and can take a blob of clay and my "high tech"tools..Ha,not

(..a couple of sticks really, plus one secret special little tool) with me when i have to be out of town visiting my aunt or mom..

of course as with all ceramic work there are a ton of steps before getting to the end result..
but it's wonderful to come back from a trip with a big bag of beads ready to fire.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-04-06T13:42:00.004-05:00

Glazing,glazing...all day wednesday..glazing

Winner for the Bead Soup Party Giveaway

2011-03-28T15:06:00.004-05:00

I'm terribly late in announcing the winners for the bead Soup Party giveaway..my apologies.. I'm been away most of this month dealing with a family illness... Plus this photo is just a place holder cause I've not taken photos of the prizes..

Winners are Elizabeth of Turquoise Sky

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 24 Powered by RANDOM

and Marie of Sky Jewels

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 9 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Marie i have your address...but Elizabeth please email me using my aol address or convo thru etsy your mailing address.. thanks everyone for leaving comments on my blog for the best bead soup party ever.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-03-02T10:12:00.003-06:00

Glazing....glazing..glazing..

Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Party Blog Hop Reveal

2011-02-22T14:02:00.004-06:00

What is a Bead Soup Party?
Each beader is pared up with another jewelry designer and tasked with sending the following
A focal
A special clasp ( not just a lobster claw)
Some coordinating beads or spacers
Using the focal and clasp is mandatory, but we could use anything from our own stash of beads to round out the piece.Using the coordinating beads was optional.
The goal of this bead soup party is to challenge ourselves creatively by using beads we may be unaccustom to working with and to meet other beaders .

For Lori Anderson's 3rd Bead Soup Party I was pared with Emma Thomas of Fredbean's Nook
who does amazing things with seed beads so be sure to stop by her blog to see what magic she worked with the bead mix she received.

Here is my piece

There were 2 starting ideas for this piece,first I didn't want it to jump out as "Me" and secondly I wanted it to be lighter for Spring. I love Fanciful Devices use of aged whites and that was also an inspiration. Besides the original bead soup mix from Emma , there is a variety of materials incorporated in this necklace. White Indonesian glass, antiqued button , faceted crystal nuggets for a little sparkle, carved jade flower, white howlite flower, faceted jasper,czech glass, carved white cinnabar pillow, Spirited Earth ceramic beads in teal, faceted almond , chocolate along with copper chain and findings and tan waxed linen cording was used as the stringing material..however several beads holes did not want to cooperate so I had to wire wrap those then string thru the wire loops.

The beautiful turquoise enamel bead caps came with the seed bead focal. I wire wrapped turquoise beads onto fine chain to dangle down and create some movement.

A carved jade flower is wired onto a copper cab setting and that is tied onto an antique button

I wanted to include the lovely orange glass beads but they never quite worked in the necklace design so I was able to incorporate that lovely pop of color in this bracelet along with the copper link and other beads remaining from the soup mix.. howlite melon beads were added to connect with the turquoise from the necklace.

This is the Bead Soup ingredients from Emma
I'm doing a random giveaway of ceramic beads , the only thing required is to leave a comment on this blog, since this blog hop will take some time to make the rounds the drawing date will be March 13th so there's plenty of time.
Here are the links to the participants..have fun.

Lori Anderson, Pretty Things (your hostess)
2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life
3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane
4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio
5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations
6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs
7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things
8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe
9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto
10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio
11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas
12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts
13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place
14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings
15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita
16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails
17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found
18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs
19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs
20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats
21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs
22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim
23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu
24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads
25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air
26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio
27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads
28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter
29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts
30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul
31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium
32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus
33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble
34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design
35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle
36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs
37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works
38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights
39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire
40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio
41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's
42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions
43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya
44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations
45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles >>*YOU ARE HERE*
46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig
47. Amanda Davie, Articulations
48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady
49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux
50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks
52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde
54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog
55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning
56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings
57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio
58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem
59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa
60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do
61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog
62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon
63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs
64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals
65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats
66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.
67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash
68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique
69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver
70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit
71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey
72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas
73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix
74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems
75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!
76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium
77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art
78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden
79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads
80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook
81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy
82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria
83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods
84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs
85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries
86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka
87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae
88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy
89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations
90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss
91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous
92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead
93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations
94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof
95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio
96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box
97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs
98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue
99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads
100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings
101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio
102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations
103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios
104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore
105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations
106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky
107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric
108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs
109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading
110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman
111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe
112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo
113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs
114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me
115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf
116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer
117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles
118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie
119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart
120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs
121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven
122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings
123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass
124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks
125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things
126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos
127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee
128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M
129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry
130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads
131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny
132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore
133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog
134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder
135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs
136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies
137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art
138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.
139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter
140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy
141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse
142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings
143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts
144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense
145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique
146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads
147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul
148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me
149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog
150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions
151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T
152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals
153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area
154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs
155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta
156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef
157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye
158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color
159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman
160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory
161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst
162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed
163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu
164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio
165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra
166. Anna Motz, Stunning
167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings
168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads
169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings
170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope
171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones
172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs
173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass
174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre
175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine Credit River Art Glass
176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog
177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio
178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're
179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux
180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me
181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art
182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog
183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen
184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink
185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin
186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer
187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels
188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry
189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos
190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.
191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry
192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle
193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini
194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse
195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between
196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets
197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts
198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs
199. Karen Williams, Baublicious
200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend
201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell
202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts
203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs
204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads
205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique
206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry
207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads
208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love
209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry
210. Shirley Moore, Homeschooling Life

1,000 Etsy Sales Valentine's Giveaway Winner

2011-02-15T08:55:00.003-06:00

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 5 Powered by RANDOM.ORG
Ok Juls...did you put voodoo on the number generator thingy..cause it's number 5 and if i'm counting correctly that's YOU..
so send me your mailing address and i'll send the winner winner chicken dinner to you.

What's There To Eat For Lunch

2011-02-14T11:37:00.004-06:00

I've put off going to the grocery store for tooo long, the refrigerator looks cleaned out..there's only weird bits and pieces of things to make a meal and those would work ok..but they are in the takes some time to cook category..so now it's lunch time and What am I going to fix?? could call in for a pizza..but must resist that temptation..New Year's resolution was to eat better.

Digging around in the cupboard I find one packet of Ramen noodles..hmmm I can work with that, perhaps lunch will not be something wrapped in a tortilla after all.

Cook the Ramen but don't add that packet of mystery powder..drain.

saute 1/2 cup frozen mixed onion, celery, green and red pepper ( all in one bag, these are a great time saver)
add 1+cup frozen Great Value sugar snap stir fry mixed veggies. ..toss in a good dose of garlic pepper, garlic powder and some teryaki sauce and tamari.. when the veggies are cooked and most of the liquid has cooked down pour into a bowl with the noodles to cool a little

then add a beaten egg and a couple tablespoons of biscuit mix( there's no flour in the house)

heat some oil ( not olive) in the skillet..ladle in a good big mound of the noodle veggie mix and cook on medium heat like a pancake.. it's not bad ..like a mock Egg Foo Young...and there's always chocolate for dessert.

Bead Soup Party 2011

2011-02-13T11:22:00.004-06:00

This is the package for the Bead Soup Party 2011 from my partner Emma of Fred Beans Nook
We had a few rough starts getting our packages delivered to one another but now we are cooking for this fun event. Emma sent a lovely assortment of bead ingredients Czech, ceramic,and that wonderful focal of seed beads with turquoise enamel bead caps..all great colors..this photo doesn't do the clasp justice ,it's antiqued copper in a versatile size which would work for either bracelet or necklace..
now which will I make for the BSP?

1,000 Etsy Sales Valentine's Giveaway

2011-02-08T10:14:00.004-06:00

I wanted to thank everyone for your support of my Etsy shop and handmade ceramic beads/pendants.

I was surprised when someone brought it to my attention that I only lacked a couple sales of making it to 1,000..wow..that's just amazing.

I still feel like the Newbie in bead making..still fine tuning my designs and glazes,but I love it.. and hope to be able to devote more and more time to this passion and take it from being a "hobby" to a whole other level in this new year.

As a celebration and thanks for all your interest and support I am having a Valentine's Blog giveaway. Just leave a comment here on the Blog until midnight Feb 14th, I will do a random drawing winner for a surprise packet of my beads to show some Love back at ya.

Thanks Ya'll

It's Freezing Up in Here

2011-02-03T11:14:00.004-06:00

Finally got the kiln fired last night. Everyone has been feeling the effects of this winter blast..and not to sound wimpy..even though it's true,here in Houston we are not only unaccustomed to this cold but are for the most part unprepared for so many days in a row of freezing temps..normally it comes in one day ,hangs around for another ,then gets the heck outta here..our winter temps are mostly upper 50's ..very nice. The Power Co.'s are scheduling rolling blackouts for energy conservation..which sounds like a big pile of you know what..cause ,come on, we've got plenty of energy around here and..And ..why are they not producing enough to support Houston's little ol' cold spell..what if we were in Chicago's situation..something is funky around here with our energy companies
But enough of that..I sat out in the cold,bundled up like a big bale of laundry, loading the kiln, after I hoped the rolling blackouts were done so my kiln would not be shut off in mid-fire and ruin everything.
If there's any decent light today I will take photos and list this evening..do i sound fussy..sorry.. discovered I DO NOT like the cold..

Not Working Saturday

2011-01-30T22:34:00.006-06:00

Normally I don't post blogs about myself..however yesterday was so much fun I wanted to share what I was doing instead of glazing and firing kilns which is the norm for most Saturdays. My dear friends father in law was celebrating his 88th birthday..this was his fabulously festive mountain of cake. Which i helped eat
and proceeded to hang out all afternoon with my friend and her family..a great Saturday.

hope my friend doesn't kill me for posting this.

Unruly Glazes

2011-01-29T07:19:00.003-06:00

Love em' but sometimes those unruly glazes can be disappointing..as with the batch from this last firing..only about half were acceptable..the others will require ReGlazing..ugh..never a fun thing..but better than losing all that work . Last night while sorting out the Ok's from the funky I started to reflect about clay and being a "potter".
Potters are alchemists, turning one material into another completely different thing.. and we must be drawn to the excitement of how it all works ..anticipation is high when approaching that cooled kiln. After putting in all those hours of work,it comes down to the firing, sometimes there is a fabulous surprise awaiting or there can be that moment of thinking "What the heck happened in here?". I prefer to work with glazes that have some life to them ,a certain unpredictability..clay itself does have a mind of it's own, add the glaze and those pieces are alive.. glass workers must experience somewhat the same thing. The outcome should be a certain way but sometimes, for some reason it takes a turn. Potters also need to have a certain level of detachment in order to cope with those moments of opening that kiln door to find true disasters..not just some glazes that didn't mature ,but melt downs and explosions( thank you Kiln Devas I rarely have those) and mighty glaze malfunctions..all which hopefully decrease with experience..but ceramics is not a cut and paste craft ..more like a bee on a string.
These worked..not showing the funkies.

BTW ...Glazing

2011-01-26T07:21:00.003-06:00

The early morning light is not the best for photos, but I've wanted to join in the BTW but kept putting it off with some excuse or other.. last week was my first BTW with a little tight shot of a beading project..this week , bisque pendants are on the table ready for glazing ..as soon as I get off this computer...perhaps I should combine BTW with a no words Wed.

Lorelei's Fusionbeads Blog Challenge

2011-01-21T06:21:00.004-06:00

Lorelei challenged us with a selection of beads from Fusion Beads..the Lucite leaves did not speak to me so they were left out..but i loved the faceted beads and was surprised at the wonderful pattern the pinched seedbeads created when stacked together. Typically , my thought about the clasp.."i can make that"..i must have some weird OCD thing cause that's one of the first things that always pops into my head..even if i can't actually make whatever..i have to try it out.. the light has not been cooperative today...but here is my piece

After getting familiar with these elements it's clear that i will be taking this thing apart and redoing it with more color.

I also have gained a new respect for bead makers who do clasps..

Lori Anderson's Famous Bead Soup Party

2011-01-16T09:10:00.005-06:00

Bead Soup Party Blog Hop has begun...and I'm so excited that my partner is Emma from Fred Beans Nook.. http://fredbeansnook.com/blog/ what she does with seed beads is stunning and I love her color choices.

I've only recently begun to appreciate seed beads..if you have been on the fence about using seed beads please go check out Emma's work..it's amazing.

To see the list of over 200 participants for this years Bead Soup Party blog hop go to Lori's blog sign up page. http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/p/bead-soup-blog-party.html

each person's name is linked to their blog site..

It's cold firing the kiln outside..but i did

2011-01-13T09:44:00.001-06:00

Beads Of Clay Small Kiln Survey

2011-01-06T06:17:00.007-06:00

Before>New .....................................

After> much loved ......................................

Beads of Clay Blog, http://beads-of-clay.blogspot.com/2011/01/small-kiln-survey-part-iv-skutt-ks609.html

has featured my Little Tiny Skutt kilns(Ks609 Manual) this week on the Small Kiln Survey.

This is a very basic kiln that I've found stands up to just about anything you can do to it.

Interior space 11"x9" is very versatile, quick to fill and fast firing, it's perfect for smaller pieces like beads but also works well for vases and functional ware too.

It's very affordable, around $700. I purchased the first kiln in the Northwest and moved it to Texas 10yrs ago..it's still working great and I've kept it in constant use, Rakuing out of it 3x's a week for the last decade..the only thing I've done to it was new plug and re staple the elements which had sagged a bit over the years..still works great for glazing.

I liked it so much that I purchased a second one from the local clay supply company..The Ceramic Store,Inc.. just noticed that the American Ceramic Supply Company in Fort Worth,Texas has a great sale on this kiln( $100 savings) until Feb 1st and this little kiln can be shipped UPS..ohoh..maybe I need a 3rd Little Tiny.

Bead Soup is Almost on the Table

2011-01-04T01:25:00.008-06:00

first try

final redo

Bead packet I sent (made the aqua ceramic ones)

packet i received

I was just looking over Lori's reminder on Facebook about the upcoming Bead Soup Party.

I will never forget my first Party..it turned me down a path to making ceramic beads..first an interest now a lovely addiction.

Oh please excuse the HOrrIble photos..was using an ancient camera without macro options.

Sneak Peek-glazed

2011-01-02T20:31:00.001-06:00

Art Bead Scene Blog Tour December Challenge

2010-12-31T15:14:00.008-06:00

Every month Art Bead Scene runs a monthly challenge. They show a piece of art to inspire you and you then submit a piece you’ve made using the inspiration to their group pool on Flickr
.This month there were 2 wonderful paintings to choose from..
below are my 2 entries for the December challenge.
Brass chain and findings, ceramic pendant >Spirited Earth, coral wheel, jasper oval and leather cording

This bracelet has brass chain and findings ,antiqued brass frame bent to a natural curve, amber and amythest glass beads , ceramic flower >Spirited Earth and leather suede lace.

Please check out Art Bead Scene bloghttp://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2010/12/monthly-challenge-blog-tour.html for other participants to December's blog tour

New Year's Resolutions

2010-12-30T06:08:00.005-06:00

greenware going into the kiln this morning, and yes there is a buffalo in the herd

I can't believe this year 2010 has only a few days left.. Seems 2o1o has passed faster than any other year. The other evening, New Year's Resolutions were the topic of discussion , of course,Get Organized was a common commitment..but how many years have I resolved to get into the organized state, so far i have not become a citizen.

While this year has been loaded with challenges, it's also brought with it some wonderful things ..one of which was getting involved with the bead community and Beading Blogs. Lori Anderson's amazing Bead Soup Party introduced me to a wonderful group of interesting and creative people.

Which brings about my second NY's R..

My Etsy shop..Spirited Earth , changed from being filled with rattles to a shop selling ceramic beads..something for which I am thrilled. However , up until now,it's been more of a hobby with my other ceramic business taking up most of my time( whatever that might be when not dealing with family )so my second resolution this new year will be to focus more on the shop and keep at least 2 dozen items listed at all times..

I took advantage of yesterdays Huge storm( which dumped over 3 inches of rain in my area yesterday) to work in the studio..there are almost 100 assorted focals and about 50 small beads in the kilns this morning..

I want to thank everyone for being so welcoming and supportive this past year.. I love the beading community ,You are the best..have a great New Year.

It's Almost Here

2010-12-24T10:46:00.003-06:00

Ready or not..Christmas is almost here.. It's Christmas Eve and somehow, against all odds, I do not have to rush around in the traffic and last minute crazy crush. There are still lots of things that need to be finished before tomorrow but nothing major..now to focus on cleaning the house and making some treats.
The dogs have discovered their packages and been into those already..they excel at tearing into tissue paper.
This time next week we will be facing a new year. 2011..2011 !!
It's a question what happened to 2010 but it flew past like no other year I can remember.
I'd like to wish everyone a peaceful and safe Holiday.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-22T07:19:00.005-06:00

The count down has begun for the Holiday Week. I'm still finishing up the final things for Xmas.

Each morning this week has been some duty. Monday to the vet for the dog, needs an operation, poor old girl, scheduled for after New Years. Yesterday to the dentist, oh boy i get a new crown

> not the good kind<>

uh oh, but what about my Hair. oh well..maybe i can squish in an appointment for that too..

The days are ticking by and before you know it we will be ringing in a New year..and i for one will be glad to see it..this has been a somewhat rough year for so many of us.

Here's hoping this upcoming year will be brighter and a bit easier on us all.

We have Raccoons

2010-12-17T06:25:00.006-06:00

My dog Zoe did not get the message about the time change so each morning she comes in between 5-5:30am and gives a little wakeup bark..thanks Zoe, I was hoping for maybe another hours sleep..forget that..

But it's really turned out to be a good thing..it's nice to be the only one awake,as it takes me some time to warm up to the day..also since the weather is nice I go for a little quick walk...just to get the blood movin'

This morning as I'm headed out I see a Big cat across the street, who's that?, don't recognize him..and yes I am familiar with the neighbors pets on sight..granted my glasses were on the top of my head at the time..getting a better look I discover..Not a cat..a RACCOON..then another..they see me and dive into the sewer drain..

I've heard of sewer rats but never sewer raccoons..YIKES

Pablo Picasso was a Funny Guy

2010-12-11T11:38:00.005-06:00

I was just over reading Marie Dodd's blog and it started me thinking about Pablo,he may have been an odd fellow but he had some mindful things to say as well as being a cutting edge artist.

"Each second we live is a new and unique moment of the universe, a moment that will never be again. And what do we teach our children? We teach them that two and two make four, and that Paris is the capital of France. When will we also teach them what they are? We should say to each of them: Do you know what you are? You are a marvel. You are unique. In all the years that have passed, there has never been another child like you. Your legs, your arms, your clever fingers, the way you move. You may become a Shakespeare, a Michelangelo, a Beethoven. You have the capacity for anything. Yes, you are a marvel. And when you grow up, can you then harm another who is, like you, a marvel? You must work, we must all work, to make the world worthy of its children.”

Art Bead Scene Ornament Blog Hop

2010-12-06T07:31:00.008-06:00

I've a little late in posting my ornaments for the blog hop. I decided to make 2 pieces as it was so much fun. The above ornament was inspired by Holiday cookies, it uses a 2" ceramic pendant, brass filigree bead cap to embellish the focal hole,glass dangles. a 20mm howlite flower that reminded me of a snowflake,and a twisted brass hook for a hanger.

frosted winter woodlands, red rose hips and holy berries was the inspiration for this ornament.

the main part uses a brass frame with a lovely 20mm glass heart that dangles freely inside accented by faceted crystal and berry red glass dangles, suspended by antiqued brass chain.

Welcome to the Art Bead Scene Ornament Blog Hop,

Participants:

Art Bead Scene - you are here!
Creative Impressions in Clay
Diva Designs
Elysian Studios
Fab Fibers
For the Love of Beads
Humblebeads
Island Girl's Insights
Jangles
Jeannie's Blog
Lampwork Diva/Cindy Gimbrone
Mary Harding
Michelle Mach
Spirit Rattles
Wondrous Strange Designs

Good Blogging , Lori Anderson's Ecourse Revisited

2010-12-05T09:23:00.005-06:00

Ok, this photo has nothing to do with this post, i just love Lilly's expression and they are cute dogs.

A few months back Lori Anderson posted an Ecourse that focused on Blogging.

Being somewhat new to Blogland i found the information and the feedback comments left by readers thought provoking and very helpful.

I hope to give my Blog a lot more attention in 2011, it's such a wonderful tool for business and networking.

Lori had some nice thoughts about blog writing that might be worth rereading.

Here is a link: http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/p/ecourses.html .

my blog does some odd peak a boo thing with links so if it's invisible just scroll over the above blank for the link.

Thanks again Lori.

Glazed

2010-12-02T21:33:00.003-06:00

Yikes it's December

2010-12-01T09:44:00.007-06:00

How did this happen..how did November disappear so quickly..
It seems as though every deadline i have is coming due this week.
so once again i am scrambling..not a state i enjoy, but i am excited about all the events that are coming up, among which Art Bead Scene is having an ornament challenge, http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2010/11/abs-ornament-blog-hop.html

Lillyella is hosting a Secret Santa gift swap this month. http://lillyella.blogspot.com/2010/11/lillyellas-secret-santa-gift-exchange.html
also she is having a fundraiser for a very good cause, I've made pieces to donate.http://www.holidaygoodwill.com/

Lori Anderson is again hosting the incredible Bead Soup Party, I've participated in 2 events and they have been a Blast! Not to be missed, if you are able to participate i guarantee you will have a lot of fun.http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/p/bead-soup-blog-party.html

Then there is trying to keep Spirited Earth Etsy shop stocked.
I've got new beads being glazed and fired today..listing tomorrow as the weather should be perfect for photos. I love Anne Choi's work, her beads are just pure magic. Wish i could buy everything she has..but unfortunately,my pocket book says NO ..
I've made some ceramic beads that are inspired by my love of her metal pieces,there are a couple in the above photo..can you pick them out?

Thanks...Giving

2010-11-25T09:25:00.004-06:00

I've never much been a fan of the Thanksgiving holiday as a whole, but as I've gotten, let's not say Older,but more mature( Ok stop that laughing)
I've come to appreciate there are a lot of blessings to be counted in my life.
Even in difficult times there are things one can be grateful for.
Perhaps it's a good thing to have a day to stop and think about how fortunate we are in the worldwide view..
It probably shouldn't be just one day a year..and not about eating til your eyes bug out and your pants button flies across the room.
my own personal list of gratitude would be loooong.

nature in the front yard

2010-11-13T13:53:00.006-06:00

I just saw this fine Big hawk sitting about 25 feet up in the old elm tree out in the front yard ..It's got a fabulous rusty breast and is quite large, unfortuntely this photo does not do it justice.

Think it might have been checking out my neighbors cat for a possible lunch.

Fall Color Inspiration

2010-11-11T06:04:00.008-06:00

This first rug is similar to the photo i saw in the magazine .

I was just reading Stregata's blog ,she had a lovely display of yarns in wonderful fall colors of teal, rusts, bright greens and cremes.

Last week ,waiting for my car to be inspected ,i perused the auto shops mags..there was a cool one on cottage style..How did that get in with the Field and Stream,Mechanics Journals and other snooze worthy publications. (sorry guys)..some wife must have taken pity on us girls.

As i flipped thru great photos of vintage and fun funky repurposed items ,my eye was drawn to a lovely rug with the beautiful fall colors that i love so much..teal , rust and a pop of bright green.

Now that color combination seems to be everywhere i look.

I have a secret passion for rugs, if you ever find yourself stuck for ideas just go rug shopping,they are a marvelous source of inspiration for interesting and unexpected color combinations.

Varied angled photos do make a difference

2010-11-09T12:08:00.009-06:00

just one more photo to share ..this angled shot allows you to see what's happening on the surface of this connector bead..it certainly does make a difference to show a different view of your pieces.

why did it take me soo long to get that?

Hey Fanci..

2010-11-08T12:49:00.008-06:00

A side view really does better show what's happening with the texture and surface of this bead.

This is the typical straight on shot but i did fiddle with the highlight and contrast options.

My photo skills are not what they should be..that's not a secret or new.

They are better than a year ago,but don't really show my beads to their best advantage.

Usually i'm in a rush to get things listed before i head out to my "day job"

A friendly blogger , Fanciful Devices, took some great photos of my beads from her last order.

It was very clear i needed get a clue about this photo thing..

Thanks for the input..still need to work on my photo skills but this is a good start.

Winner Copy Me Challenge

2010-10-31T10:40:00.005-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

I am very late in posting the winner from the Copy Me Challenge
The winner is Cenya of Emerald Window
Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 7 Powered by RANDOM.ORG
for some reason i am unable to grab the little box image from Random

Thanks to everyone who stopped by my blog and left comments.
Thanks also to Gaea who inspired the challenge which was both fun and informative.
Cenya since your focus is seed beading i will switch out the pendant focals for cabs that might be more useful in your beautiful work.

Gaea's Copy Me Challenge

2010-10-19T07:31:00.006-05:00

Gaea suggested a Copy Me beading challenge with her bracelet as the inspiration. I decided to stay with the basic bracelet form as the title was Copy me..
My bracelet also kept the 3 clustered aqua beads and the copper chain as the reference point
Instead of the ID style word focal , i used a Spirited Earth charm as a visual symbol of "Love" rather than the actual word. Coral heishi are beadcaps for another spirited earth chocolate bead and a crab agate adds a little pop of color

you can read about it over on Gaea's Blog>http://gaeabeads.blogspot.com/2010/09/copy-me.html

Here are the links to the other participants in the challenge:

Erin

Life in the Bead Lane

For My Sweet Daughter

Lorelei Sue Beads

Spirited Earth

Lorelei's Michael's Bead Challange

2010-10-16T12:36:00.008-05:00

Lorelei cooked up a beading challenge..
We all began with this mix.
This is what i came up with..after a lot of redoing..and redoing.
The pearls( that i normally love) proved difficult to work in..the wrapped funky little cages helped bring them down to earth.
The pendant that i had picked out to use with this just did not look right so i made this little bird on a nest using an altered rubber stamp image .It did get bisk fired but time was running short and i did not want to risk it to the glaze firing ( which as all potters know can often turn on you at the most crucial moment) so i painted it..then sealed it.
The pendant and the coffee brown beads are my extra additions

Lorelei has set us a fun challenge,we all started out with the same ingredients, a bead selection from Michael's craft store. The idea , make a jewelry piece using these and only 2 other additions and let's see what we all created..

Please go to over to Lorelei's blog http://lorelei1141.blogspot.com/2010/10/michaels-reader-challenge-blog-hop.html to see what our hostess created then blog hop to all the other participant's blogs . i have decided to have a little giveaway so just leave a comment on this blog to let me know you visited and i will do a random drawing of handmade ceramic beads on Wed. Oct20Th.

also..while i have your attention..and on a different note a blog friend has been having some unexpected health and financial woes and i will be donating profits from my Helping Hands Pendants over on my Etsy shop .. I will be setting that up this week and all items titled Helping Hands will go to giving Andrew a little help in dealing with this crisis.

soooo let the blog hopping begin:

Mary Harding

Hilary of Fryestyle

For My Sweet Daughter

My Life Under the Bus

Kristie of DreamSomeDesigns

Linda's Bead Blog & Meanderings

Copper Diem

Andrew Thornton
TyneBodenNecklaces

Raida of HavanaBeads (I need a correct link for this blog!)

Erin of Treasuresfound

Molly of BeautifullyBrokenMe

Beading by Malin de Koning

AuntieAnnie

Gr8Findings

Deborah M Purdy
Spirited Earth

Erin SiegelJewelry

beads by breul

Beads for Busy Gals

Cynths Blog

Nayas Organized Chaos

Crafty Hope

Rosebud For the Love of Beads

A week of Beading Blog fun

2010-10-15T13:32:00.007-05:00

Lorelei's Micheal's Bead Challenge

Gaea's Copy Me Challenge

This week there will be a lot of fun things going on in Beading Blogland

Starting out on Sunday, October 17th - Lorelei's Micheal's Beading Challenge

Begin by visiting out hostess ,Lorelei's blog on Sunday to see what marvel she created with finds from Micheal's

She will have a list of all participating blogs and photos from participating beaders.

Please be sure to come back here and see what I've finally have created after much redoing.

This should be lots of fun.

Tuesday, October 19th - Gaea's 'copy me' Design Challenge

I have created on my own take of Gaea's bracelet for this challenge

Check out her blog, then come back and visit me to see how i was inspired by her bracelet.

Sunday, October 24th - The Beads-Of-Clay Fall Blog Event

This is a not to be missed event. I'm going to be blog hopping.

The ceramic bead artists from the BOC blog will be having an open studio event , shop sales and giveaways all day. You'll be so sorry if you don't hop along.

Fall

2010-10-08T13:44:00.004-05:00

This time of year is too short, the colors are so exciting ..summer seems endless to me and i am always glad to see it come to a close.

There is a little local crafts show the first of November that I've signed up for, i will show jewelry made from the Spirited Earth ceramic beads of course but also I've been working on some small wall hung tiles.. these are jewelry focals that grew and grew..It needs a little fancy wire work hanger and maybe a cute bead or two to complete the look..

A Day at the Beach

2010-10-06T10:30:00.011-05:00

This is my new friend Emanda, Artemisiastudio.blogspot.com she and her husband were vacationing on the Texas coast this last week and they very kindly suggested i come down for a visit..

I had never met Emanda before this but i was to quickly discover she is a wonderfully warm and welcoming person..she made me feel as though we had known each other for years.

Plus Emanda is an amazing beader..check out that fabulous necklace she is wearing..it's even more stunning in person. Her wire wraps perfect..blushing about the state of mine.

We talked of Blogging and Beading and Business, lots of ideas were flying around. It made me realize how much i miss having someone with which to brainstorm creative ideas.

Also got to meet Emanda's very sweet and oh so cute pups .

and also her saosc husband

We wandered for a couple hours along Jamaica Beach which was practically deserted the whole time we strolled along..

except for this guy..and check out that great fish he wrestled in while we watched.

I had such a great visit with Emanda and her husband and loved the day long vacation down in Galveston..it left me wondering why i don't drive down to the coast more often..

it was a pleasant little road trip and Galveston has come back nicely after the hurricane..there are a ton of things to do in and around town when you get tired of playing on the beach...fun places to eat, galleries and cool shops( not just sea shell souvenirs) and then there is Moody gardens..wow..pyramids in Texas..

But best of all was getting to meet Emanda and make a new friend.

Note to self.. you need to get out more.

Lorelei's Look What I Got at Michael's Bead Challange

2010-10-02T08:28:00.005-05:00

Lorelei Eurto is hosting a super fun beading challenge..

She has selected some wonderful beads from Michael's craft store and set a challenge before us.

So head right over to her blog and check out her selections and the rules for participating.

http://lorelei1141.blogspot.com/2010/10/reader-challenge.html

( my blog does invisible links so if the link is not showing up above, scroll over it)

I know you will love to get in on this..plus Michael's is having a sale right now.

Art Charm Swap

2010-09-29T09:35:00.006-05:00

Jennifer of Glass addictions is hosting an art charm swap.

I thought this would be a good way to challenge myself to make something different.

The deadline is quickly approaching..i have mailed my charms..can't wait to see what the other participants are creating.

1. Jennifer http://glassaddictions.blogspot.com
2. Susan http://suebeads.blogspot.com
3. Kristie http://ArtisanClay.blogspot.com
4. Paige http://pmaximdesigns.blogspot.com/
5. Nan http://spiritrattles.blogspot.com/
6. Amy http://copperdiem.blogspot.com/
7. Lauren http://maybeads.blogspot.com/
8. Loretta http://www.designsbyloretta.blogspot.com/
9. Ema http://emakaye.blogspot.com/
10. Janel http://janeldudleybeads.blogspot.com/

It's a Parliament

2010-09-27T07:38:00.002-05:00

just a little peep of what came out of the kiln this morning..

sort of a sneak peek on charm swap

2010-09-27T06:52:00.004-05:00

There's a charm swap going on as i mentioned in an earlier post hosted by glass addictions

I failed to post a sneak peek on my progress...and while this is not a photo of the actual charms I'm submitting , i liked the general idea so much i decided to make some others using the same technique..

Ceramic Online Handouts

2010-09-25T08:46:00.007-05:00

Linda Arbuckle has some wonderful PDF handouts on her website..

If you do not know of Linda's work then you are really missing out on seeing stunning ceramic pieces..not only is Linda a well known Potter but also a wonderful educator.
Check out her site ..

Lori Anderson's Personal Jewelry Challenge

2010-09-19T16:35:00.004-05:00

Lori Anderson has another reveal for her September personal challenge on her blog Pretty Things. I especially like that Lori used a designer color sample book to help find unusual color combinations for her necklace..i need that book.

Please pop over and check out what magic she has created using my Spirited Earth Beads .

Art Charm Swap

2010-09-19T11:17:00.002-05:00

Jennifer of Glass Addictions blog is hosting an art charm swap .
Having never done this before, i decided to sign up..10 charms due by Oct 1st.
there were a few guidelines, other than size restrictions , the more important one is to use the new pantone colors: Lagoon, Chocolate Truffle, and/or Living Coral.
I've done a couple of glaze tests looks like a match for 2 of these.
I think Lori Anderson has inspired me to start challenging my self , i've signed on to participate in different Blog challenges to help me think outside my comfort zone.
I'll remember to post a photo of my finished charms..typically i forget ,then have to go begging the recipient to take a photo for me..
and will post the charms i receive..should be fun and interesting.

Round 2 of Lori Anderson's Sept Challenge

2010-09-15T21:48:00.005-05:00

Lori has posted her second round of creations using my Spirited Earth ceramic beads.
i can't decide which of these might be my favorite..though i am very drawn to her blue re-do

which i think turned out brilliantly.

but then the other 2 necklaces each have something quite wonderful going on , a feast for the eyes.
Please go check out Lori's blog to read more about how she is challenging her creativity, thinking outside the box..changing the norm..

Lori Anderson's Personal Jewelry Challenge

2010-09-12T15:48:00.004-05:00

Lori has challenged her creative self by using surprise package beads and focals .

This month it's my turn to try and stump Lori with beads that are not in her usual stash.

But as usual she creates more beautiful jewelry no matter what ingredients she's given to work with..

Please go check out Lori's blog to see what she is creating this month with my rustic ceramic beads.http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/2010/09/cup-of-bead-soup-with-spirited-earth.html

2010-09-12T10:01:00.006-05:00

The Smithsonian is the most amazing place..
it is on my bucket list...hate that term..but you get the picture..
i would love to go there,but as that's not possible , i happily visit in the virtual world. The Lightbox Luce collection has some amazing jewelry pieces, not all are WAY OUT.
In an earlier blog i posted some photos from there that inspire me, a jumping off place.
I just had breakfast visiting the museum( online of course) and wanted to share it. http://americanart.si.edu/luce/object.cfm?key=338&artistmedia=0&subkey=873
i never know if blogger will do a peek a boo with my links..if so..then the space above is hiding the link..

Lori Anderson's Personal Jewelry Challenge

2010-08-31T17:44:00.005-05:00

This month Lori Anderson will be using a selection of my handmade ceramic beads and focals in her personal jewelry challenge.
Throughout the month of September she will be working her magic on this surprise packet from me ..i can't wait to see what Lori will make..check in to her blog regularly to see her progress. http://www.lorianderson.net/

Winner Winner

2010-08-24T09:38:00.003-05:00

It's a tie..because i could not get the random thing sorted out..i wrote names on paper tabs..
when i went to pull one out there were 2 stuck together..who is to argue with the universe..
so 2 winners.
Creative Flutter and Sharon of Livewire
please let me know where to send your winnings..
thanks everyone for your input on these new pendants..

Testing Happiness

2010-08-17T08:13:00.008-05:00

The first photo is the one I posted the other day..I was very happy with the results.
But as I looked at it I knew I wanted some with more COLOR as well..what is the Fall about anyway if not beautiful rich colors...sooo when I opened the kiln this morning I was doing a happy dance all over the studio...I am in love with both these leaf pendants .

This is my mom's birthday week..87yrs old and still going strong..yea Mom!!
So i think a giveaway is in order, random drawing on Monday evening Aug 23rd
I'll send you a few of the new leaf pendants....which are being made today.. really fresh ones.
just comment here and give me feedback..which do you prefer..the solid overall tone or the multiple glazed leaf?

just silly

2010-08-15T20:55:00.002-05:00

It's hot, point the fan my way said the cat

Testing Testing

2010-08-13T10:11:00.004-05:00

Before my kiln decided to take a vacation this past week i was in the middle of trying out some different things for the upcoming change of season..which i am very excited about..

The beads still feature birds and bees..but some leaves too..as they do tend to fall in the Fall..

Necklace by Livewire Jewelry

2010-08-12T11:27:00.011-05:00

Sharon of livewirejewelry.blogspot.com has used a couple of my ceramic pieces in this fabulous necklace.

I have to admit that i am always surprised at the amazing jewelry pieces these talented people create with my beads..these artists bring such spirit to the materials.

the etched pendant is especially lovely.

go over to Livewire's blog and check out Sharon's other wonderful works.

my blog does weird peek a boo things to links..scroll over that blank for the livewire link ..

does anyone on know why it does this...

Emerald Window before and after

2010-08-07T22:14:00.005-05:00

I got the most amazing surprise in the mail today..a package from Cenya of Emerald Window ...
http://emeraldwindow.blogspot.com/2010/08/more-before-and-after-from-spirited.html

She has done the most incredible things with some ceramic cabs i sent her way...
When it arrived i was just rushing off to make the Post office deadline but i stopped to open Cenya's package and put this stunning necklace on right then and there... i put it on again when i went to dinner tonight ..but just for a few minutes..my friend got to wear it for the evening..i was able to enjoy looking at it from a different view..across the table..ha...i'm surprised i got it back .
it wears beautifully..
thanks so much Cenya.. what you do with those little cabs transforms them.

marcia

2010-08-06T16:59:00.005-05:00

This is my collection of Marcia MacDonald pieces..my favorite is the little coin with triangle..it says ...love will triumph..
please excuse the tarnished on these ..my bad.
below are a few little scraps of mine from the classes i took with Marcia oh soooo long ago in Eugene, Or.

Marcia Macdonald

2010-08-02T15:18:00.006-05:00

I've been at the vet half the day with a very sick ancient cat..got home to read on Hillary Pfeiffer's blog

http://hilarypfeifer.blogspot.com/2010/08/rip-mam.html that a good friend of Hillary's and a former metalsmith instructor of mine, Marcia Macdonald, had passed away this last month..

I had lost track of Marcia over the years but she was a person that no one could ever forget.

I have thought of her often over the years and quite a lot recently ..how i wish i had followed up my thought about contacting her..if just to tell her what an inspiration she was ..and how her vision touched me and my own work.

Her metalwork was amazing and so was she..

i am sitting here heartbroken over this sad news..thoughts and prayers go out to her family..she will be so very missed by soo many.

that weird gap after "hillary's blog" has a link to it..doing that annoying peek a boo deal.

Necklace by Fanciful Devices

2010-08-02T10:21:00.007-05:00

Just wanted to post this photo of a necklace by Fanciful Devices, her work is soo amazing.

She used one of my hand talismans in this piece..so unique..love it.

check out her etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/fancifuldevices

my blog is doing some weird peek a boo thing with the links..it's there,in the gap above, just hiding until the pointer is on it..grrr

jewelry for men..do they wear ..what??

2010-07-31T09:24:00.006-05:00

The other day , out of the Blue, the question about jewelry for men popped into my head, most of the guys i know consider their watch as the only jewelry they will wear...Really? that's it guys?

Of course, the very next thing to come into my head is how sad that guys can't wear something pretty..ok there's just no excuse for where my mind will go..

Back in the day,when men wore fancy shirts that required cuff links, i suppose, that was the male nod to ornamentation.

So i went over to Etsy, my fav addiction, and checked out vintage cuff links.. there were some very cool CLs that were quite nice little bits of art .

Of course i went into the studio and tried my hand at a guys necklace..

Leather cording , one of my ceramic hand talisman in sage green, a faux leather button( cause that's what i had at 11:30pm) wire wrapped the hand in annealed steel wire..i added that carved wooden bead..but looking at it now i think it's too large ..i would like a little something more happening with this piece not just a hand on a string, but not sure what to add..maybe a couple of smaller beads on each side of that hand?

anyone have some feedback on what to do about jewelry for guys..or this piece?

Waitin' for the Sun

2010-07-28T09:41:00.006-05:00

i'm doing busy work around here waiting for the sun to show it's shiny face so i can take some "good" photos for my etsy shop..you know ones that do not look like they were taken thru amber glass..

anyway i was reading marie dodd's blog showing the henna tattoos ..i've always wanted a real tattoo.. but i'm a big chicken..and on what part of the body would it find a home..eeeks..

the henna tats look fun..

the other week i was attempting to clean out the studio,workroom---house..etc, during all that sorting out and cleaning i unearthed all manner of cool things that had remained packed away after my move from Oregon..remember i was not going to be living in Houston very long..haha :(

These henna hand templates were one such find..

Brandi Girls Helpful Hints

2010-07-19T12:30:00.007-05:00

Can you guess how large this focal is by the photo......NO
I wanted to share some helpful info on brandi girls blog..she has wonderful tips for creating better sales listings. Photos, text etc..go over and have a read..bet it will make you rethink a few things in your shops, it certainly has made me want to update and add info.
http://brandi-girl.blogspot.com/2010/07/week-27-listing-tips.html

25 years ago?

2010-07-18T13:34:00.004-05:00

Today is studio clean up/out :(

I unearthed a small box tucked into the back of the closet, along with other bits and pieces these little flat clay animals were a funny find, a beginning experiment into making ceramic jewelry..wish i had kept experimenting and had some idea of a direction way back then...

Glaze test bracelet

2010-07-17T08:53:00.003-05:00

These were supposed to be just glaze tests..

That raspberry color is a combo of 2 commercial glazes mixed together.

The indigo blue is a weird glaze..sometimes it's this mottled faded blue jean color other times it's a foggy hazy grey blue..both interesting but so different.

The sage and bronze combo turned out well too, but my fav is that unassuming mottled sage and butter with a little blush at one end..

These combined unexpectedly well with the little starfish charm...

maybe these tests have a new direction in a necklace or bracelet...

of course that just means i need to more test to have as reference samples in the studio..

My New Ward

2010-07-15T09:03:00.005-05:00

Looks like i have inherited a dog..her owner, the elderly fellow that i discovered had fallen in his home a few months ago, has been in hospital and nursing home, it's clear he will not be able to return to his own home.

I've been caretaking Coco since April..treated her for heart worms ..she did really well on the treatment and thankfully i use a fabulous affordable veterinarian, who runs primarily a wellness clinic.. PetCare Express.

Now to get her spayed..yup..she's 5 yrs old...hey people..stop pet overpopulation,

get those animals neutered.

she is a really lovely dog..my other dogs, however, are a little out of sorts about this new addition to our household..

Tests fresh from the kiln this morning

2010-07-14T09:23:00.005-05:00