No Easy Beads

Earthenwood Studios

2012-01-29T00:32:00.001-06:00

I've been a long time fan of Earthenwood Studios. I actually have quite a collection of Melanie's ceramic beads.

They have been the inspiration for many of my Bead Cruise designs over the past 6 years.

The Queen of Paradise will be making her debut on Bead Cruise 2012 in 1 month, 3 days and 16 hours! There are a lot of preparations in progress getting ready for this event. Thanks to Melanie's great Art beads and service I am one step closer to getting things done.

You can shop with Earthenwood Studio here or in Melanie's Etsy shop here.

Get out there and be inspired by these wonderful ceramic art beads!

Thanks for stopping by!

A Bead Show

2012-01-16T14:30:00.001-06:00

There is no shortage of beads in New Orleans. That is Mardi Gras beads. They are not the kind we use in our bead art, although I have seen art made with Mardi Gras beads.

Last weekend was the International Gem and jewelry show. I haven't been to a bead show in so long. I got up Saturday morning armed with my pass and I headed out the door. My plans were to visit Beadstuff and pick up gold perm galv. 15/0 seed beads. As I was entering the show my friend Carol was leaving. We spotted each other and went back in to find Beadstuff and do a little shopping.

There they are Doug and Pam.

We had so much fun talking and shopping I forgot to go home. The sun was setting and my phone was ringing off the hook. See I told my husband I would be home shortly. A 1/2 day later I realized how late it was!

Carol, Pam and me.

I have plans for these Tibetan beads. I envisioned them on the ends a crocheted lariat with a matching bracelet.

These were a few of my favorite things that came home with me. I love these brushed metal disc beads. I now have them in copper, gold and silver. They really do a great job of adding a finishing touch to a design.

Thanks for stopping by.

The New Year

2012-01-03T00:44:00.001-06:00

For 2012 instead of making a New Year's resolution I chose a word. It is a powerful word, one that I will look for every day in this new year.

Today I found Joy hanging out with my friends Brenda and Tammye in Barnes and Nobles.

Did you make a New Year's resolution or pick a word for this new year?

Here are a few things I know will bring me Joy this year.

My Mom is coming to visit in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to spend time with her. We are going to hang out, play cards, go to the zoo and treat ourselves to some good New Orleans cuisine.

In March we will be sailing the high seas. 8 days in the Eastern Caribbean with my daughter Heather and my sister Rosanne. We have the best time! I hardly wait to see old friends and make new friends.

I am going to find Joy in blogging again.

I am going to make time to bead. I've been carrying them around in my bag for a month. I take them with me to my friend Sally's every week. They are waiting for me to find time and inspiration to play with them again.

Thanks for stopping by. I wish you a Happy New Year filled with Joy!

It's Time!

2011-12-25T19:41:00.002-06:00

It's been a few years since I've been ready for Christmas. In years past I was always sad living so far away from my family. I missed the opening of presents and Christmas dinners.

My wise daughter who is always filled the Christmas spirit told me we needed to start our own traditions. She told me we needed to make our own joy and happy memories. For years I did not decorated. Last year my husband said "enough" and we went shopping for Christmas decorations and a tree. We made a night of setting it up and decorating together.

This year the traditions have continued. Art and I decorated together. I shopped for Christmas PJ's for the grand children and made hand presents. I cooked and baked special treats and spent Christmas eve delivering them to my friends.

My heart was filled with joy!

Along with being a New Orleans tradition Mr. Bingle has now become a collection. Two more were added to the tree this year.

This is the poem that comes printed on a card with every Mr. Bingle.

When Santa left his shop one day he found a snowman near his sleigh. "you'll be my helper now." he said, and tapped the little fellow's head.

The snowman found that he could talk. "Look Santa I can even walk!" And then he gave a little sigh..."oh how I wish I could fly!"

So Santa gave him holly wings then looking through his Christmas things, found ornaments the very size to make a pair of shining eyes.

Than Santa said, "You need a hat; an ice cones's just right for that. And keep this candy cane with you; you'll see what magic it can do!"

The snowman laughed and sang a jingle, so Santa named him Mr. Bingle®" That's how it happened. Now he's here for us to enjoy throughout the year!

The story about how Mr. Bingle originated can be found on Wikpedia

Wishing you peace and happiness and a Happy New Year!

Queen Ann

2011-11-19T01:16:00.005-06:00

Like tiny grains of sand flowing through my hands so did these tiny delicas as I picked up 3 beads and through the next 3. I forgot how muchI enjoy the rhythm and flow of 3-drop peyote.

I was smitten with MaryLou's Queen Ann's lace pattern. I had them both pinned on my board on Pinterest.

I am glad I took the time to read through the instructions it was like beading with a friend. There were options, choices to make. The graph was broken down into 3 parts which made it easy to follow. Included was a word chart. There was also a paragraph about finishing touches. The closure on your bracelet is very important whether you use a button or bead a toggle. This is the part that dresses up your bead work and adds that special touch. I chose a vintage button from my collection. It reminds me of the times I spent traveling and beading with my friends. It's the perfect match to go with my Janine King bag.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-11-09T16:18:00.003-06:00

One German and one Japanese crochet hook, both were put to the test this week on my bead table. I've been crocheting with the German crochet hook for years. One day it just disappeared. My magic crochet was missing. Would the new Tulip Crochet hook from Japan be able to compete with it's German counterpart? Would the hook slide from loop to loop like the blades of skates on ice?

There were no nashing of hooks. Although they felt different in my hand. Both hooks were able to keep up with the rhythm of slipping a bead and passing through the hook. I have finished 60 inches of my third Urban Stripes rope. Tonight I will join it together.

Who won, The German hook or the Japanese hook? They both did, but the German hook will always be my favorite. It's just holds the magic.

Visit BTW and see who has what on their bead table.

Spooky!

2011-10-31T11:53:00.000-05:00

My girls really know how to do Halloween. Martha Stewart has nothing on them. Amiee's front yard was filled with ghoulish things. The neighborhood block party was huge success! Heather planned a surprise birthday for Amiee before the Halloween fun began.

My daughter in-law Jennifer is a rock star with her creations and costuming. Star Wars costumes are her forte. This year she created Mumford a Tauntaun. She is well traveled making an appearance at a Star Wars convention, hanging out a Tiger's game in Detroit and helping out with the Tricks and Treats. If you would like see more of Mumford's adventures she has her own page on Facebook

Costumes for the family included a Twi'lek, Garrus, Luke Skywalker, a zombie and a cat from Dr. Who.

I hope your Halloween was spooky fun and full of treats!

Urban Stripes E-Book

2011-10-12T09:15:00.003-05:00

I've always been one to color within my favorite color palette. I am drawn to the matte finishes with a hit of metallic accents. Judith's Urban Stipes project fit that criteria letting me choose my colors.

You can see examples of different color combinations for the Urban Stripes by the members of the original on-line group who participated in the project here

Urban Stripes by Judith Giffin is now available as an e-book at Bead-Patterns.com

I am grateful and excited to have my finished Urban Stripe necklace displayed in the gallery along with the color numbers for this project.

In the book, you will find:
º Urban color inspiration
º Design and construction tips
º 3 necklace & 1 bracelet project
º 16 length adjustable pattern sections
º 48 pattern repeats
º Adding in thread and invisible closure
º Blank graph paper to copy and use

This book has it all. What are you waiting? Get out there and pick your color combination and let the fun begin.

2011-10-11T00:16:00.001-05:00

This is my sister Rosanne. We look a like don't we.

We were in a bead store shopping and a woman looked at us and asked "So which one of you did your Mom like better?" We both laughed at the same time and said neither! We aren't twins!

This my younger sister Susie and her pup Zoey.

I am having family withdrawals. My two week visit wasn't long enough.

I think we all favor my Mom. Rosanne and Mom have birthdays two day apart. I am so glad we were able to celebrate together. I hope I look as good as my Mom does when I turn 78!

Inspired by Nature

2011-10-04T00:40:00.001-05:00

My trip home this month included a whirlwind of travels with my daughter Heather Powers. There was a bead retreat inspired by nature, along with a book signing and trunk show. In my many years of traveling to bead shows, bead cruises and bead retreats I learned skills that I can incorporated into my beadwork. Heather's taught us how to capture the beauty of nature with our cameras and incorporate them into our jewelry designs.

My only regret is that I did not have a good camera to take pictures with. With My trusty iPod I did get some great inspirational pictures.

There was a trip to the farmer's market.

I had the best time sharing this adventure with Heather and Rosanne.

There are more pictures and stories to tell but they will have to wait. In the mean time treat yourself to Heather's book Inspired by Nature. You won't be disappointed.

Urban Stripes

2011-09-12T08:50:00.001-05:00

We had so much with the first Urban string along. I love the pop of color in the last section. it's called Silver Perm. Galv. Matte. It has such a nice finish.

While waiting for the last section, Judith challenged us to create a bracelet combining parts from the different sections.

Confessions:
I never quite master the invisible join. I used copper discs to give the bracelet an Urban Chic feel.

The first round of the Urban sting along is complete. We had so much fun that we asked Judith if she would consider doing a second one. I'm pretty sure there was begging and pleading involved!

Stay tuned for part 2. Section one is complete and section two is strung. There has been a lot of crocheting going on!

To see other color combinations and completed ropes stop by and visit Judith's blog

Birthdays and Hurricanes

2011-09-08T10:27:00.002-05:00

I've been having a hard time communicating with my blog. It has to do with hurricane season and my birthday. This year I decided my birthday was going to be different. In 2005 hurricane Katrina was my 50th birthday present. I was determined not to celebrate my day reliving this event that changed my life and so many others. I picked the weekend before to have a party. I invited my friends over for cake and ice cream. I had big plans to capture this day with photos. I ordered a white almond wedding birthday cake with butter creme frosting from Heydel's bakery. We met at Quarter View for dinner. I love the decor. The walls are painted with a muriel of the French Quarter. It has a good atmosphere and the Red Fish was excellent.

Phil was telling a joke when I snapped this shot.
We were having so much fun I forgot to take any more pictures!

You will have to take my word that the cake beautiful.
I treated myself and bought the camera connection gadget for my iPad. I snapped this photo with my camera and used the device to upload it. A quick fix with an app and there you go a picture of my birthday present from my friends Sally and Carol. I love flamingos. They found the perfect gift that really made my birthday special. I am so grateful to be blessed with friends. They are the best of all gifts.

Thanks for stopping by!

Urban Inspiration

2011-08-09T19:18:00.006-05:00

I hear the train a comin'; it's rollin' 'round the bend,
And I ain't seen the sunshine since I don't know when.

"Folsom Prison Blues" Song by Johnny Cash

And I'd let that lonesome whistle blow my blues away.

photo by safe-growth.blogspot.com

This picture is the inspiration for my Urban stripes color selection. Section three is almost compete and section four should be string before the night is over.

To see other Urban inspired crocheted ropes and color combinations visit Judith's blog.

Urban Stripes

2011-08-06T20:57:00.003-05:00

Judith of Beadline Studio started a project called Urban stripes. Thirty three people signed up to join in the experiment. Urban graffiti was the inspiration for our color choices. In my mind's eye I vividly remember sitting at the railroad tracks seeing a black tanker car with these colors painted on the side.

Picture editing: Photostudio app using effect 62 neon lights.

It can be tricky at times stringing a color chart following letters. Picking up the wrong color seed bead to match the letter can really be frustrating once you start crocheting. One mistake and it will throw the whole pattern off. My solution to the problem was using the backside of a business card and double sided sticky tape.

Section one is competed. Section two has been strung with just a few beads left to crochet. I will be posting more pictures of my progress as each section is completed.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-08-03T23:14:00.006-05:00

Inspiration!!

This is just what I needed to get back into a creative mode. My beadwork has been hiding in a box for over a month. This week I unpacked my favorite pieces and carefully placed them on my beadboards. Now when I sit at my table to bead I am inspired by the colors, textures, different shapes and sizes of the beads I use to create with. What are those boards made out of? They are frames use to make Grandfather clocks. They didn't pass inspection at the factory and were discarded. I was lucky enough to know someone who worked there many years ago. Rosanne and I figured out a way to use them in our booth when we did shows. I miss those days!

Thanks for stopping by.

Click on the BTW photo to see more Bead Table Wednesday pictures.

The Big Easy

2011-07-31T23:14:00.001-05:00

In 1987 The Big Easy was a movie filmed on location in New Orleans. It starred Dennis Quaid, Ellen Barkin, John Goodman, and Ned Beatty. The movie plot is about police corruption, love and murder. Being a small town girl moving to the Big Easy wasn't easy. Shortly after our move I came across an ad in the paper for a warehouse sale from the movie set of The Big Easy. Looking for a way to keep myself entertained at the time, I decided to check it out.

I loved to tell the tale of how I acquired my dining room chairs from the movie set. They had a history. After 14 years, these chairs have found a new home. This weekend a new dining room table and chairs arrived. I shouted out a double Hoot! Hoot! on Facebook. I was so excited.

The new table is dark rich heavy wood with bar stool heigh chairs. Some day soon I am going to crochet a new doily for the center of the table. The one I am using now I made 25+ years ago when my children were young.

You can catch both the move and the TV series "The Big Easy" on Netflix

Friends and the City

2011-07-10T12:31:00.001-05:00

Seems I've been on the run for the last 3 weeks with packing and the move. When my friend Sharon called and said she would be in town I jumped on the chance to meet her in the city. We headed to the French Market where enjoyed watching an artist paint letters and names. A poet read us a poem. Sharon found a purse that was just right for a night on the town.

We crossed the street and headed to The Artist Market and Beadshop Where Jan greeted us with a sweet smile and a warm welcome.

I love New Orleans art.

For years Sharon has heard me talk about Mother's Restaurant. How could not stop there for lunch! The afternoon thunderstorms rolled in which prolonged our stay. Bread Pudding kept us entertained as we waited for them to pass. Our next stop, the Carrolton cemetery.

I love when friends come to town and I get to spend time with them. Thanks Sharon! I had a great day.

Home Sweet Home

2011-07-08T09:38:00.001-05:00

It's been a long 2 1/2 weeks of packing and moving. We are finally settle in. The drapes are up and the pictures are hung. There is just one box to unpack in the beadroom. I'm pretty sure I remember where I put everything! So many details to attend to before we are truly settled in. Tomorrow we will be up and running early in the morning to do a change of address at the OMV.

We couldn't of done this without help from our friends Chuck and Tammye. Chuck staged the move and Tammye made sure we had dinner. Tammye helped unpack the kitchen and we put things away. She said once that is done the rest falls into place and she was so right.

We are so happy in our new place. Home Sweet, safe, secure and settled in.

Paradise

2011-06-28T00:54:00.001-05:00

"Paradise" or "Life in a Box" was my choice as a title for this post. In two days we are moving to a new apartment complex. Our life is full of boxes waiting for the move. We are hopeful the new location will bring us back to paradise.

This is the last thing I made before packing most of my beads. The Queen of Paradise in teal. I have been going though serious bead withdrawals wanting to bead with things that won't see the light of day until the end of this weekend.

Hopefully I've managed the transfer of lights, cable and Internet so there won't be any down time and the move will go without a hitch.

Magazines

2011-06-16T00:45:00.001-05:00

Because it's Hurricane season and
I survived Katrina.

She was my 50th birthday present and because
We are moving in two weeks.

I have been going through years of magazines.
Not just any Magazines but years of Bead & Button and Beadwork.

Knowing that I can replace those issues with a DVD collection. Makes this task easier and will free up a lot of space in my new beadroom.

Clink on the picture to go to the Interweave website to order a DVD collection. I like the idea of having a years worth of issues at the touch of my iPad.

Pulling out box after box of magazines has me wondering. Am I a pack rat or a hoarder?

Do you save every issue of your favorite magazines?

Buttons and Buttons

2011-06-11T19:06:00.002-05:00

My Grandma had a button box. Actually it was a tin can. It was one our favorite things to play with when we went to visit on a Sunday afternoon. Over the last 22 years I have become a collector of things. Those things being pressed glass, seed beads and buttons. I am not an organized collector of these things, until this week. I have been going through every box and container and putting things that belong together in their own boxes or containers.

My buttons are now in their own special tin. I have been inspired to incorporate some of these buttons into new pieces of beadwork. I just have to remember where I put everything when I am done sorting and things are put away.

Are you an organized collector of things?

BTW

2011-05-25T19:13:00.002-05:00

BTW, a photo by noeasybeads on Flickr.

Inspiration: Fresh picks from Lima Beads.
What's on your Bead Table?

Queen of Paradise

2011-05-23T09:06:00.003-05:00

Queen of Paradise
She sits on white sandy beaches with ocean breezes, her toes nestled in the sand where small waves nip at her heels. She is the Queen of Paradise. You can capture your inner Queen of Paradise on Bead Cruise 2012. Where we will set sail aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Sea. Our tropical beaches will be in Phillipsburg, St. Maarten; Basseterre, St. Kitts; San Jaun, Puerto Rico and the beaches of Labadee.

Caribbean Sunset
Picture perfect sunsets as you sail away from one port of call heading to the next. While at sea capture your favorite sunset with waves of sparking crystals and beaded chain.

There is more but it is optional.
Garden by the Sea
How does your garden grow? With art beads and leaves all in a row? Herringbone and surface embellishments complete this designs.

Join us on Bead Cruise 2012 with these great instructors: Tracey Stanley, Kerry Bogert, Jill Wisman, Heather Powers and Beverly Herman. 8 days of fun in the sun, great classes, workshops, gift bags, door prizes and more! Registration begins soon.

BTW May 18th

2011-05-18T23:52:00.005-05:00

BTW May 18th, a photo by noeasybeads on Flickr.

On my bead table for this Wednesday are treasures from the Bead Cruise 2011 sponsors. So many wonderful Bead Artists and bead shops to list. You can check them out on the Bead Cruise sponsor page.

Thank you so much for your generosity.

Magazine Street

2011-05-15T10:56:00.002-05:00

Thursday was a special day. I had a visitor come to town. I met Kathy online got know her better the year we worked on the Bead journal Project in 2008. We've kept in touch through facebook and emails. Along with being a being a Bead Artist, Kathy is also a writer. You can find her book Tierra Red at Amazon. Take a step back in time in time and enjoy the romance and mystery of this historical novel. It's a very good read!

One thing I found we had in common was "we are not shoppers". What you say "how can we as girls not like to shop?" We laughed about how much money we have saved our husbands over the years by staying away from shopping centers. We didn't talk about how much money we have cost them buying beads! I took Kathy for a ride down Magazine street where we headed to the Beadshop. I don't get over that way very often so it was treat for me too. I love the older part of the city with the shotgun houses, galleries and little shops.

We headed inside where we found this. Delightful displays of finished jewelry.

There were treasures to be found.

These bright colored beads caught my eye. They felt like the color of my soul that day. I loved the stories we shared about families, life and everything in between.

What Are You Doing with Your iPad?

2011-05-11T12:32:00.001-05:00

Long before I held this new iPad in my hot little hands I knew it had the potential to be more than a media device. With so many apps available I dreamed of the ways I would utilize it as an Artist and Bead Designer.

I had a lot of practice experimenting and playing with different apps on my iPod Touch. At times it was difficult manipulating that tiny screen but I did it!

I am now free to roam around the country and sell my patterns online from my iPad.
I am no longer tied to a computer desk checking emails, watching Etsy and sending out PDF files with a click of a mouse. I can do it anywhere with just a touch of the screen from my iPad.

You to can run your business from your iPad with iBook. (free app)
1. Mail your PDF to your iPad.
2. Open and save the file in iBooks.
3. You can now email the PDF file from iBooks.

Piece of cake!

If you purchase patterns online save them to iBooks for easy viewing.
I love this digital age and modern technology.

Peas on a Plate

2011-05-09T00:23:00.002-05:00

Just liking scooting peas around on a plate from one side to the other, I have been scooting my beads from one side of the bead mat to the other. There are no great designs rolling around waiting to be created.

All I can think about is jumping in my van with the big open highway before me. Driving with the window down, The wind blowing threw my hair singing out loud to the tunes on my iPod.

Where would I go? To points north and west to visit my family.
A girl has got to have a dream to make to plans. I've got both. Now I have to find a way to make it happen.

Photo by jcookfisher via flickr creative common.

BTW

2011-04-27T20:42:00.005-05:00

I am slowing working my way back to beading and creating a special piece of Bead Embroidery for me. The face is ceramic by Earthenwood Studio. The stone is brown turquoise. I got it from Beki on the Bead Cruise. I am going to let my muse make the call with chain and surface embellishments.

BTW April 27, a photo by noeasybeads on Flickr.

Click here to see more pictures from Bead Table Wednesday on Flickr

A Coupon

2011-04-19T09:00:00.005-05:00

This is a first for me. I am having a sale in my etsy shop. Use code PATTERN20 to receive 20% off any pattern in my shop.

There is still time to make of these lovelies for Mother's day.

He Waited

2011-04-06T00:41:00.004-05:00

My Cricket waited for me to come home.
He knew I needed to say good-bye.
I loved that sweet puppy of mine.
I will miss his sweet puppy hugs.
The way he shadowed me and stayed by my side.
I am filling my broken heart with sweet memories of Cricket.
He gave me the greatest gift of unconditional love and five years to treasure.
My heartfelt thanks to my family and friends for the support and love given to Cricket and I as we said our good-byes.

Born April 17th, 2005
Passed April 3rd, 2011

A Very Sick Puppy

2011-03-10T20:34:00.004-06:00

I have a very sick puppy in my hands. I found Cricket huddled in the corner this morning shaking. I called the vet and they took him right in. It was so hard to leave him behind while they took x-rays and did blood work. The x-rays showed he has bladder stones. This was his second trip to the vet in less than a week. I brought him home this afternoon with pain medication. He is laying on the couch covered with his blue blanket. My heart is breaking. I know I will do whatever it takes to get my little boy back on his feet if surgery is required.

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-03-09T12:51:00.000-06:00

On my bead table this Wednesday are crystals and more crystals. I am gathering supplies and gearing up to make kits. 18 more days an we will be sailing.

Happy Mardi Gras

2011-03-08T15:42:00.000-06:00

New Orleans parade. Zulu King

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-03-02T22:19:00.003-06:00

This is what's on my bead table for Wednesday.

Different colorways for Siren's Jewels. Time is flying by and we will be sailing the high seas in 25 days. There is still much to do but I am making progress. Supplies have been purchased. New shoes are waiting to be worn. My sister Rosanne will be here in 20 days. I can't wait see old friends and make new ones. It's going to be a awesome time. Maybe you can join us next year for Bead Cruise 2012.
Click on the BTW icon to see more Bead Table Wednesday pictures.

Warning! Watch Your Pictures

2011-02-20T16:26:00.009-06:00

Warning watch where blogger is storing your pictures. Today someone visited my blog and got this warning on their computer. This lead me on a quest to find out what the problem was. The answer was found in the blogger forums. 4.bp.blogspot.com is a site blogger uses to store the photos you upload to your blog. Apparently there is malware at this storage site. This is only a problem for PCs running Microsoft Windows.

How do you fix this problem you ask?
Check the html on your photos when you upload them to blogger.
Look for this URL in your picture code.
These are safe storage sites for blogger pictures.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com
http://2.bp.blogspot.com
http://3.bp.blogspot.com

If you find your picture has been uploaded to 4.bp.blogspot.com Remove the picture and upload it again. Check the code again and make sure it has gone to one of the safer sites. This should take care of the problem.
Watch your photos and be safe. It is an ugly place out there on the internet with malware, spyware and viruses.

For Amiee

2011-02-18T16:51:00.005-06:00

The pattern is by Jenny Van and it was on the cover of Beadwork 2010 magazine. I made this for my daughter Amiee. I am one lucky Mom to be bless with 3 wonderful children. it seems funny to call them children when they are grown adults. I thought Amiee needed something special because she is special. She is a great mother, wife and caretaker of a their cat and new puppy.
I think this necklace will look quite lovely on her.

BTW

2011-02-16T18:57:00.005-06:00

It's BTW and this is on bead table today. I designed Mardi Gras Jewels around a crocheted rope in 2003. It's hard believe I made this piece 8 years ago. I took this picture to late in the day. It was hard to capture the purple iris of the beads. Taking the picture on my bead table wasn't a bright idea! I needed more light.

The crochet rope is a variation of theElizabethan Rope by Judith Giffin The pattern for Mardi Gras Jewels can be found here

Thanks for stopping by for Bead Table Wednesday.

Dragonscales and Dragon Bangles

2011-02-11T15:08:00.011-06:00

I made my first Dragon Bangle by Nancy Jones featured in Beadwork magazine Feb/March 2011. I shared a sneak peek on BTW. The pattern was done with the brick stitch. I loved the look of the bangle but wasn't happy with how stiff it was. I immediately contacted Judith and asked for her help to make another one using bead crochet. I really had to pay attention while stringing the daggers and seedbeads. All the magatamas had to be facing the same direction. I tried several times before the right combination produced the results I was looking for. I knew I would be using a focal bead to join the bracelet. I had a large hole Tiger Eye bead. It reminded me of the eye of a dragon. Try as I might I have a hard time doing an invisible join with bead crochet. I understand the concept but getting it to work is something my brain can't compute. I love the supple feel bead crochet produces. It rolls over the wrist with ease.

At the Artbead Scene you can learn how to make a quick and easy photo collage using Picnik

If you would like to try your hand at bead crochet I highly recommend you visit Judith's site "beadline.com" where you can purchase her books and CD's.

BTW

2011-02-09T16:45:00.005-06:00

It's Bead Table Wednesday and look at these beauties sitting on my bead table. As you know the Gem shows are finishing up in Tucson. One year I went and it is forever branded in my memory. The Holidome with all those gemstones being picked up and put back down sounding like a thousand coins spilling through your hands. The Best Bead Show with the best bead vendors and To Bead True Blue filled with bead artist and supplies.

My friend Judith from Beadline studios lives close enough to go every year. She sent me a get well package with all those lovely beads. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the words of encouragement and well wishes that came my way this past week. The package Judith sent in the mail made me feel extra special.
Thanks!!

BTW

2011-02-02T14:59:00.000-06:00

On my bead table lies Dragonscales. I love the texture the long drop beads give this design. The pattern is by Nancy Jones. You will find it in the latest issue Beadwork magazine.

BTW

2011-01-26T15:26:00.000-06:00

Bead Table Wednesday finds only tools left on the table. My Mom will be here to visit on Friday. The beadroom is also the guest room. This afternoon my Friend Sally and I made Bead Soup. We separated and sorted the beads. They went back into their proper beading containers. The left overs were put into the bead soup mix bag. I am ready for company!

Mac's App's and iPod's

2011-01-23T23:38:00.010-06:00

I should've been beading instead I have been playing with my iPod, apps and talking walkings along the Mississippi River on the Levee.

This afternoon we walked 2 miles west.Cricket was plain tuckered out by the time we turned around and headed south. We only had 2 more miles to go to make it back home.

Along the way I walked down newly grated roads to the river bank. Wondering how far this drift wood had to travel before it made it to the shore.

Watching ships, wondering when my ship will come in.

So much on my mind waiting for the phone call that will come this week with an appointment for a procedure waiting to be done. I am ready to get this over. The good news is I don't have to have surgery. I had a CT-scan January 7th. The results were fluid in the anterior abdominal wall from the last surgery. It requires a CT-Guide fluid removal. I did my research to find out how the procedure is done. My version: They are going to poke with me a needle and pop me like a ballon. I know it isn't funny but I have to find some humor in this. As slow as things are moving in the medical profession I am not counting on this getting done before my Mom gets here on the 29th. The good news the recovery time is short and I will be able to say "good-bye" to the pain in my side.

These photos were taken with my iPod 4g. Photos edited with Instagram, Retro and Photoshop apps can be seen on My Life with An iPod blog

BTW

2011-01-19T10:46:00.013-06:00

It's BTW and look what's on my bead table. Lucious antique dark brass etched disc beads. The International Gem and Jewelry show was in town this weekend. I wasn't able to go. My friend did and picked up a stand of these beauties for me. They made me *gasps* with their richness.

Mixed with a Humblebead and bead crochet they are a perfect combination for another bracelet. The bracelet below I used copper disc beads with a humblebead.

Bead Table Wednesday

Mardi Gras Night

2011-01-13T19:50:00.000-06:00

This picture has a story.
I was out and about looking for desk today and ended up at Goodwill. I didn't find a desk but I saw this shirt hanging in the window. On my out the door I stopped in front of the window and took a picture with my iPod. The window reflected the background behind me. Using nicpiks I change the photo to black and white. With the focus tool I highlighted an area in the center and brought in a little color changing a photo of a shirt into "Mardi Gras Night".
http://www.nicpiks.com

BTW

2011-01-12T20:24:00.000-06:00

Bead table Wednesday.

Now if I would just sit still, some beading might get done. I do have one clean closet with empty shelves for my Mom to put her things on when comes to visit in a few weeks.

(see full image)

Thanks for stopping by!

Coming Together

2011-01-09T20:32:00.001-06:00

I have been slowing working and piecing this design together. The pattern is by Jenny Van from the December 2010 issue of Bead & Button magazine. My sister Rosanne gave me the stone quite a few years back. I love using pieces that have special meaning in my beadwork.
Thanks for stopping by.

Puppy Paws

2011-01-05T23:02:00.000-06:00

Cricket and I have been laying low cuddling under our puppy paws blanket. We missed wishing everyone a Happy New Year.
Wishing the best for everyone.
Happy New Year!

Bead Table Wednesday

2011-01-05T18:28:00.003-06:00

Heather started something fun called "Bead Table Wednesday" You can read all about on her humblebead blog. I took this photo with my iPod using instagram to create a vintage look.

You will be seeing more pictures and I shoot my way through a picture a day for the next 365 days of 2011.
Thanks for stopping by

Mr. Bingle

2010-12-23T20:25:00.002-06:00

When Santa left his shop one day he found a snowman near his sleigh. "you'll be my helper now." he said, and tapped the little fellow's head.

The snowman found that he could talk. "Look Santa I can even walk!" And then he gave a little sigh..."oh how I wish I could fly!"

So Santa gave him holly wings then looking through his Christmas things, found ornaments the very size to make a pair of shining eyes.

Than Santa said, "You need a hat; an ice cones's just right for that. And keep this candy cane with you; you'll see what magic it can do!"

The snowman laughed and sang a jingle, so Santa named him Mr. Bingle®" That's how it happened. Now he's here for us to enjoy throughout the year!

The story about how Mr. Bingle originated can be found on Wikpedia

Win an iPAd from Artbeads.com

2010-12-19T19:56:00.002-06:00

Who hasn't said "I want an ipad"?

And, as if giving away 10,000 gift cards wasn't enough Artbeads.com just kicked off a giveaway for a new Apple iPad! They even bought the iPad with 3G capability so you can get online just about anywhere. It would be so exciting if you won! Everyone who places an order between now and the end of the year will get an automatic entry for a chance to win. There is an alternate way to enter for those who don't want to place an order. Here's the link to more info about this: http://www.artbeads.com/ipad-giveaway.html Thank you Artbeads.com for helping to spread Christmas cheer with your generous give-aways. Merry Christmas to all. Now lets go shopping!

10,000 Gift Cards From Artbeads.com

2010-12-19T19:49:00.002-06:00

Artbeads would like you to participate in their 10,000 Free Gift Card Giveaway.
Help share the gift of beading. Promotion ends Dec 22, 2010

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-12-16T20:52:00.000-06:00

Today my dad would have been 81 years old. Happy Birthday Dad. We miss you!

All That Sparkles

2010-12-13T20:45:00.007-06:00

40 3-mm Copper Crystals surround a 14mm Volcano rivoli followed by 60 Copper Crystals beaded around chain links accented with 24 kt seed beads.
Brings back memories of a Caribbean sunset tucked away reminding me I will see more of those sunsets in March.
This one of my favorite designs. I made earrings to match.

We will be beading in links in one of the classes I am teaching on Bead Cruise 2011

There is still time to join us as we take our beads to the high seas.
Visit www.beadcruise.com

A Gallon of Milk

2010-12-08T08:08:00.009-06:00

Wait, aren't we suppose to be talking about Christmas? Making gifts and shopping for those on our list along with decorating the tree and wrapping presents. I made plans for a trip to San Antonio to visit with Heather and make Christmas cookies with the girls.
It all changed with trip to the grocery store and a gallon of a milk.
A pulled muscle.
A trip to the doctor.
Physical therapy.
Another trip to the doctor
and confirmation it's not a pulled muscle.
It's a hernia.

I just had surgery in August to repair a previous one. That was number three. Oh gosh I was a baby. I cried and cried because I am not ready for another surgery. After the tears were spent I accepted it. "It is what it is". With the help of my daughter Amiee, we researched and found Tulane University Medical Center has a clinic that treats my kind of problem. My doctor made a referral and I have an appointment Tuesday morning.

On a brighter note Art and I put up our Christmas tree. It was nice working together to make the season bright. We are looking forward to the holidays. There will be something special under the tree for Cricket who sat so patiently while I snapped a picture or two.

Art Beads and Bead Crochet

2010-12-01T08:16:00.003-06:00

I added these two new bracelets to my etsy shop this week.
I named them Art Beads mets Bead Crochet.
I love the combination of textures and colors.

Polymer clay bead by Pam Wynn.
Glass disc beads by Blue Sariphin.
Bead caps by Elaine Ray.

Black Raven by Humblebeads.
Glass disc beads by Blue Sariphin.
Leaf bead by Elaine Ray.
Free Shipping for all USA orders through December.

Thanks for stopping by!

A Night Walk

2010-11-21T19:58:00.000-06:00

Dinner with Friends

2010-11-20T15:25:00.003-06:00

I am so thankful for friends. We are gathering for dinner at Aleta and Greg's for dinner early this evening. We had so much fun the first time we are doing it again. I am cooking the main course for the meal. I picked up baby potatoes in colors of yellow, purple and red, a sweet onion and baby portabella mushrooms.

I gave them a bath and put them in the bottom of the crockpot.

In a pan I browned the outside of a Sirloin tip using just a little Virgin Olive oil to seal in the favor. I sat the roast on top of the vegetables. Lipton Onion Mushroom soup mix is my favorite seasoning for the top. I added just a tad over a 1/2 cup water to the mix and put the lid on to let it slowly cook all day.

About an hour ago I cut up the baby Portabella mushrooms and sprinkled them over and around the roast and potatoes. We are down to the last hour of cooking and my house smells so good! Good food and good friends. Life is good.

West End

2010-11-10T13:50:00.002-06:00

I took a ride this morning to the other side of town to see a new Doctor. I drove down West End and by the 17th street canal where the levee broke with hurricane Katrina. There was a lot of reconstruction taking place. The marina was filled with boats but the damage from the storm could still be seen.

The doctor I saw today who is working on fixing the damage from the massive amount of steroids I took after being exposed to the chemical the apartment complex used to resurface the patio in the apartment above me. Apparently the side effect was an ulcer in my stomach. Time. It all takes time to recover.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T17:12:00.000-05:00

Trick or Treat!

Not be out done

2010-10-30T19:14:00.001-05:00

Scary Betty was seen flying in.

Getting Ready

2010-10-30T19:07:00.000-05:00

For Halloween.
Scary Bob and Kate are hanging out.

Vintage Rose

2010-10-19T21:41:00.000-05:00

Black 1-cut seedbeads
Crocheted into a rope
Surround a vintage style brass rose.

Evangeline

2010-10-17T20:33:00.001-05:00

My sweet Grand Daughter. I love the time we have been spending together.

San Antonio Zoo

2010-10-17T20:19:00.000-05:00

Butterfly wings in our hands.

Blogging With A Mobile Device

2010-10-12T20:00:00.001-05:00

We have moved into a world of modern technology where blogging from your mobile device is as easy as sending an email. Most of my recent blog posts have been made from my iPod Touch 4th gen. My favorite part about this device is I can take a picture and post it to my blog via email. These instructions will work with any mobile device that lets you insert a picture and send it by email.
These steps will walk you through setting up a blogger email.
Step One: After logging into blogger go to the dash board.
Step Two: Click on Settings

Step Three: Click on Email and Mobile under posting options. Finish filling in the blank. This will be your email address to send your blog post to. Step Four: Choose of the following options:
Publish emails immediately.
Save emails as draft posts
Step Five: Save your settings.
In your contacts create a blogger contact with your new blogger email.
From the mobile device go to your photos.
Pick the picture you want to blog about.
Click on the icon to send your picture as an email.
The Subject: Is the Title of your Blog Post
Write your story above the picture or below the picture.

Click Send!
You have made your first post with your mobile device via email. What's stopping you...get out there and blog!!

First and Last

2010-10-08T22:44:00.006-05:00

Going back in time. I bought a roll of chain from a vendor at the Bead & Button show. It was the last of it's kind so I was told. I loved the tear shape and how it was connected. I used the first links on The Dazzled Necklace. A few dragonflies were adorned with the chain. I gave some of the chain away. Next I made earrings with the links.
I've come to the last of the links in the chain. It was a perfect match for this bracelet with a rivoli.

I have searched the internet high and low and haven't found another source for this chain. It is copper and measures 5/8 of an inch tall by a 1/2 half. If you should see something similar I would love to hear about it.

Thanks for stopping by.
Beverly

When I Bead

2010-10-08T21:45:00.000-05:00

Cricket looks like this. Just a little sad. Wondering when I'll put the beads down and play with him.

Blue Boy

2010-10-03T13:08:00.002-05:00

Blue Boy is a Mainecoon. He weighs over 20lbs and lives with Sunny and Wooly.

Visiting With My Boys

2010-10-03T12:50:00.002-05:00

Meet Sunny and Wooly my dog friends.

Lima Beads

2010-10-01T14:03:00.001-05:00

Get your Art bead fix at Lima Bead!
Featuring beads from the following bead artist.
Jangles
Humblebeads
CK Coop.
Incorporating Artist Beads into your designs just got easier. While your there shopping don't forget to sign-up for Lima Beads daily lunch special.
http://www.limabeads.com

The Winner of the Keys

2010-09-30T13:54:00.000-05:00

The winner of the keys is lucky number 13. The bad news is the 13th person signed anonymous. I have no way to know who this person is or how to contact them. Therefore I did not include them in the drawing. This make Courtney the winner. Courtney contact me with your mailing information and I will put get them in the mail for you.

Who is this girl?

2010-09-28T15:12:00.001-05:00

Me!! I try to hide from the camera. I am being brave today and putting myself out there for every one to see. It's just that kind of day!

Singing The Blues

2010-09-27T09:57:00.005-05:00

Doctor give me the news. I got a bad case of singing the blues.

It's good to know I don't have to go out and look for new doctors.
My concern is what hospital I will have to go to with this morning's news. My next question is how can EJGH afford to loose 40% of their patients. They wanted to increase Blue Cross rates by 18% to cover what was not being paid by other insurance companies. Healthcare and services continue to deteriorate five years after hurricane Katrina.

Thanks for stopping by.

The Key to....

2010-09-24T16:07:00.009-05:00

The key to all my frequent blogging has been the new iPod Touch 4th gen. I can take a photo and send it in an email directly to blogger. Yesterday we took a road trip to Turquoise Coyote where I picked up these keys. They are pewter reproductions. (lead-free) I got some for me and some to give away. The winner will get all 3 keys. All you have to do is leave a comment. Facebook, Tweet or make a blogpost for an extra chance to win. Just leave another comment letting me know to increase your chance of winning.
The winner will be picked September 30th with the lucky number generator.
Thanks for stopping by
Beverly

Big Trucks Can Be Scary

2010-09-24T14:24:00.001-05:00

FaceTime

2010-09-23T20:30:00.002-05:00

Every night I sit down and have dinner with Kate and Amiee. I think everyone in my family should own the iPod touch so I could join them for a dinner conversation too!

Bald Eagle's Nest

2010-09-23T20:20:00.003-05:00

Ben Franklin's Case for the Turkey

In a letter to his daughter Sarah Bache, Ben Franklin shares his disappointment that the Bald Eagle, and not the turkey, was chosen as the centerpiece for the Great Seal:

"For my own part I wish the Eagle had not been chosen the representative of our country. He is a bird of bad moral character. He does not get his Living honestly. You may have seen him perched on some dead tree near the river, where, too lazy to fish for himself, he watches the labor of the Fishing Hawk ... For the truth the Turkey is in comparison a much more respectable bird, and withal a true original native of America ... He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a bird of courage, and would not hesitate to attack a grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his farm yard with a red coat on."

[source: The Franklin Institute]

Me & My Pooch

2010-09-22T19:24:00.003-05:00

I love this pup to pieces.
Thanks for stopping by.

Bev & Cricket

My Partner in Crime

2010-09-21T19:52:00.002-05:00

Better known as Sally my best friend!
Shopping today at Tuesday Morning where we found Kraft Totes on sale for $19.99 (regular $59.99).
We scored a great deal.

Beading With The Tribe

2010-09-19T23:28:00.008-05:00

Beady Friends! Front: Beverly Herman and Kay Jackson Back: Lynn Futch, Katie Nelson and Karen Firnberg met at Karen's house for a day of beading.

The beads were spread across the table. We laughed and talked. Karen made a great lunch for us. Her special roast with 3 ingredients, rice and gravy with our favorite green beans. Topped off with a delicious lemon pie for dessert. Karen worked away on her Les Perles de La Mer design by Marcia DeCoster. I would ask are you done yet? Karen would say "not yet". Isn't it just beautiful! Love the Black and Gold.
We gave. We gifted. How did Katie know I didn't have a Jade Scott pendant. I do now!
I had the best time.
Thanks for stopping by.

Catch Cricket

2010-09-18T16:35:00.003-05:00

Sent from my iPod

Apartment Dwelling Is Not For Sissy

2010-09-17T09:45:00.010-05:00

The maintenance crew was on the spot ready to renovate the apartment above us. He don's a respirator. What is the respirator for?

Workings with toxic chemicals, harmful gases, solvents and dusts. Especially suitable for chemical and pharmaceutical industries, galvanic baths, ore and colouring agent milling, spray painting, pesticide spraying.

I thought they were resurfacing the counter tops. I tried to ignore the fumes. Friday and Saturday came and went. It was 90 degrees and the air was thick and heavy with humidity. The fumes settled over us. Monday I went to the front office and asked them please to ventilate the upstairs apartment. We were coughing and Cricket was wheezing. My asthma kicked in. I had a rescue inhaler. Tuesday morning I woke up and couldn't get any air in my lungs. I jumped in the shower hoping the hot steam would help me breath. I got dressed and drove to the clinic. I knew I was in trouble. My head was pounding and I was gasping for air. I blew zero in the meter that checked my airflow. My blood oxygen levels were down to 83%. Two breathing treatments and a steroid shot later I blew 200 on the meter and my oxygen levels were back up to 95%.
I reported the incident to the front office. They offered to put me in a courtesy apartment and told me to turn in a copy of medical bills.

Around Two: The second coat. It wasn't the counter tops they were resurfacing. They were resurfacing the patio floor directly over the room I spend the most time in. The beadroom. Sally was visiting when they started the second coat. She heard my lungs shut close and rushed me out of the house as the heavy fumes filled the air. Thank goodness for my friend. She took very good care of me.

This afternoon I turned in my bills and was told they probably would not be paying them since the chemical was applied outside. Aren't they lucky I had an extra money this week to pay those medical bills. I think they are wrong and should be responsible. Any time someone has to wear a respirator in an area to work the people exposed to those same chemicals should be protected. We won't talk about the 50mgs of steroids a day which makes me crazy. I told my husband to put on your amour. He might need it to survive me for the next few days on steroids.
Apartment dwelling is not for Sissie!

Blogging from the iPod touch

2010-09-16T23:18:00.001-05:00

This ancient credit card terminal is currently in use at Dot's Diner.

Sunflower

2010-09-10T08:53:00.002-05:00

Wow! Look what my Grand Peeps grew in their 4-H garden. It's big. It's beautiful. It's a giant sunflower.

Thanks for stopping by

What's On Sale

2010-09-09T20:50:00.007-05:00

Everyone who knows me well-knows I am not a shopper. I take that back. I am a bead shopper. I've been known to spend my last nickel in a bead store. Tonight I needed a little retail therapy. Lisa Peters is having a sale in her D'stash etsy shop. This beauty is mine. Bead embroidery will be the perfect stitch to surround it. It will make a beautiful necklace to wear on Bead Cruise 2010. Lisa Peter's Art is also one our sponsor for the Bead Cruise.

Do you need some Bead Retail Therapy? Follow these links and steal a deal with these sales.
Lisa Peter's Destash Shop
Andrew Thornton Destash Sale
Thanks for stopping by!

The Long Way Home

2010-09-03T20:16:00.009-05:00

These owls came to me in a pair from LeAnn of Summer Studio. They flew through the sky via the post office. I had a plan.
The plan was to make a bracelet. One for me and one for LeAnn.
This little owl is flying back home to LeAnn. He left this afternoon.

Thank you LeAnn. It is such a joy to create something special surrounding your art beads with my seed beads. They go together like chocolate and peanut butter!

Links
Summer Studios on etsy.
Summer Studio's blog.
Things I have made using Summer Studio Art beads.
Treasures from the Sea Cuff Bracelet.
Sea Flower Necklace.
More Treasures from the Sea.

Something added to my list:
Crochet my bracelet with the other owl.

Thanks for stopping by!!

To-Do List

2010-09-02T00:12:00.003-05:00

I had a talk with my sister last week about making a list. A list of things to do. I made my list using my iPod. Instead of check marks on the things I completed I put ladybugs next to the lines using an app called DoodleBuddy. Did I mention I love my iPod!
Back to the list.
Here it is

Pictures are complete and these earrings are listed in my etsy shop.
These earrings are like potato chips. You can't just make one pair! More pictures tomorrow of the crocheted bracelet I have been working on.
Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Feet

2010-08-21T15:35:00.017-05:00

I had two great weeks in Michigan.

Swimming in the lake with my grand kids.
I can't call them all babies any more.
Just Baby J. Isn't she adorable in her swim vest!

My son Ray is a great Dad. So patient with his children.

A birthday with Heather.

Family time and dinners together.

I came home happy with peace in my heart.

A Bevy of Earrings

2010-08-02T23:34:00.010-05:00

bevy - Definition of bevy at YourDictionary.com noun pl. bevies bev′·ies. a group, esp. of girls or women; a flock: now said chiefly of quail; any group or collection. Origin: ME bevey

I liked these so much I got carried away.
Jet ABX2
3mm JetNut ABX2 with 14kt seed bead accents.
3mm Siam ABX2 with 14kt seed bead accents.
3mm Idicolite AB with 14kt seed bead accents.

These will make it into my etsy shop sometime in the middle of August. Inquiries welcome.

Thanks for stopping by.

Choosing a Style

2010-07-30T12:03:00.005-05:00

I designed these earrings to go with The Dazzled Necklace.If you had to choose which one. Would it be Style One?

Or Style Two.

Thanks for stopping by!

Industrial Chic Reader's Challenge

2010-07-24T23:37:00.003-05:00

I am really proud of my daughter Heather Powers of Humblebeads. She created this wonderful necklace and entered it in the Industrial Chic Reader's Challenge. I would love to see her win this contest.
Voting is open until Monday July 26th.
Vote here.

This is the description she wrote:
Inspired by the themes of delicate and precious thing stored away in a keepsake box, I incorporated one of my hand painted polymer egg beads into the focal. I used the small nautilus shell spacers from the Industrial Chic line and a nest from Green Girl Studios for the dangles, attaching them to Industrial Chic twisted links. For color, I added sea-glass colored resin beads and a faceted smoky quartz bead. I completed the necklace with a generous length of Industrial Chic copper chain.

And to personalize the piece I replaced the tiny dice inside the treasure box with seashells from one of my trips to Mexico.
Thanks for stopping by.

When a Prince Becomes A Frog.

2010-07-24T11:18:00.000-05:00

He becomes part of a crocheted bracelet.

The Winner is............

2010-07-23T13:49:00.004-05:00

Fleu-Des-Lis Earring Give Away
Shaima812 Congratulations!

Check your email to confirm your winning! Thanks Beverly

Fleur-De-Lis Earring Give-Away

2010-07-18T00:30:00.013-05:00

The Fleur-De-Lis blooms fresh and fair,
Fanned by the breath of summer air.

2 lines from a poem by John Usher

I picked up two pairs of these lovely earrings. One for me and one for you. There are two rhinestones at the top and bottom of the Fleur-De-Lis. The metal is lead compliant.

To enter the drawing leave a comment with a way to contact you. I will use the lucky number generator to pick a winner on Friday July 23.

Thanks for stopping
Beverly

Touch of Russian Elegance

2010-07-11T15:59:00.006-05:00

I've been busy reorganizing and putting my beads into Bead Towers. Those that fit will travel with me if we have to evacuate for a hurricane this summer. I found a brooch I bought in Tuscon 6 or 7 years ago to use in a Touch of Russian Elegance necklace. I got side tracked after finding my beads so neatly stacked in the towers I printed out the pattern. It turned out the brooch was not the perfect fit for the necklace. The instructions include beading around a 27mm rivoli which I had in black. I used 11-cut bronze iris seed beads to accent the crystal and the ruffle.
The finishing touch will be a beaded chain

If you would like to create your own Touch of Russian Elegance the pattern can be purchased here.
Thanks for stopping by!

Waking Thoughts

2010-07-10T00:56:00.007-05:00

My first conscious thought as I was waking up yesterday morning.
"The water is darker than the coffee"

Photo from Bing.com image search.

The Gulf Oil spill is taking it's toll on all of us.
Keeping watch for hurricanes has me on edge.

Today I am going to find peace in beading.

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T11:30:00.009-05:00

"On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation.

Happy 4th of July!

Statue of Liberty Fireworks By PAULIELEXX

We are celebrating today with our friends. This afternoon their will be a cook out and fireworks to watch in the evening. I made fruit salad to bring along. Iris shared this recipe with me at one of our bead meetings. It's been a family favorite ever since.

Fruit Salad recipe

2 cans pineapple chunks, drained
2 cans fruit cocktail, drained
1 jar maraschino cherries
1 can condensed sweeten milk
1-8 oz package cream cheese
1-12 oz container Cool Whip

In a bowl mix softened cream cheese and condensed milk till smooth. I add a tbsp lemon juice to cut the sweet. Add the drained fruit. Blend in the Cool Whip. Store in refridge for a couple of hours before serving.

Thanks for stopping by

Enjoy your celebrations today!

LYNN DAVIS-Casting Pewter

2010-06-22T21:31:00.007-05:00

Lynn Davis works magic with her pewter castings.

Creating Original Handmade Faux-tique Replica Designs.

Lynn's pieces will be sure to add something special to your designs.
Lynn Davis etsy shop
Read the stories behind her creations on her blog.
Thanks for stopping by
Beverly

Bead & Button Shopping

2010-06-21T11:10:00.007-05:00

Heather and Rosanne went shopping for me at the Bead & Button show. I knew I had a package coming. Heather shopped from her booth. She picked from her new beautiful creations. I am one lucky girl! (Mom)
If you missed the show you can shop for humblebeads at Heather's website and etsy shop.
humbleads.com and humblebeads.etsy.com

Rosanne picked a Lisa Peter's cabochon and button. Chain, spacer beads and 2 gorgeous rivoli's from Bello Modo. I love Rolo chain and rivolis!

Lisa Peter's Art on Etsy Enjoy free shipping from Bello Modo

Heather and Rosanne Thank you so much for making me feeling like I was part of the Bead & Button experience.

I asked Heather to share a few of her favorite moments from the show.
Bev: Heather what was your favorite memory from the show?
Heather: A surprise visit by my brother Ray and his wife Jennifer.
Bev: What was your favorite purchase?
Heather: A Bumble Bee by Kerri Fuhr.

My favorite part of the show was phone calls from Heather and Rosanne sharing the good times they had!
Thanks for stopping by.

*Disclaimer* No monetary gain was received from the vendors or family members mention in this post.

11 Days Gone By

2010-06-14T11:26:00.005-05:00

11 days have gone by since I had surgery. For the first time in five years I am pain free. I can't describe how wonderful it feels. This afternoon I go for my post surgery check-up. I hope today is the day they remove the staples. Those 23 little buggers are irritating!
I missed the Bead & Button show. Heather had a booth this year. Her Humblebeads look delightful filling the white dishes as part of her display. My son Ray couldn't resist the five hour drive to Milwaukee to visit with his sister. I can't wait to hear the tales Rosanne and Heather will share of their show experience.

I had a few beady surprises of my own last week. Sally picked up these beautiful ceramic Raku flower at Turquoise Coyote.

Rosanne sent these wonderful ceramic pendants created by Nancy of Round Rabbit.

Thanks to all who sent well wishes and prayers.
I am working on getting back into the swing of things.
Beverly