HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

MAY YOU AND YOURS BE BLESSED DURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!

Catch UP

Where does the time go?  It passes swiftly and I can't find time to blog these days..so I'm playing catchup with this one.

Yes, we had Thanksgiving and everyone except Dylan's mother showed up at my house. I have not heard from my daughter in over four months now.

We ate lots of wonderful food and hung out together the whole day.  I was very pleased that my brother and his wife were able to attend.  Neither of them is in good health and I wonder every year if they will  make it once again.  My sister-in-law has been undergoing tests to determine if she has an infection in her bones as she is not healing well from the fractures which happened last year.  She is such a wonderful person and has been laid so low, not so much from having cancer, but from the treatment which destroyed her bones.

My grandson, Dylan, moved to Kansas City in the hopes of finding employment there.  He had not been able to find anything in the small town near where we live.  He has not been happy there, missing his friends and family back here.

I am waiting for my granddaughter as we are going to decorate the tree.  I have made gingerbread cookie dough since she asked for it.  I know that her shining eyes and beautiful smile will light up the house and we will enjoy putting the tree together.

I

Halloween

Oh my two posts in one day.. imagine that.. *giggle*

I did mean to post about Halloween right after it happened, but I didn't so I'm doing it now. We held a small party for my grandchildren and their friends and it was a huge success!

The kids wrapped each other in toilet paper to simulate making mummies.. bobbed for apples.. made masks and in general ran amuck.

I was the only adult who dressed up. My granddaughter, Anah, dubbed me the "Scary Fairy" and I liked the name. Baby Josiah.. remember the little preemie guy.... was all dressed up as a tiger.

We ate mummy dogs, spider crackers, dead fingers, chili and drank hot mulled cider. In lieu of further text I'll just put up some pictures:)

Kittens

Last week one of my favorite people and someone who I met online.. yes one does make real friends that way...came to visit me for several days. My friend is a cat breeder who raises and shows purebred Persians and Exotic Shorthaired cats. She also rescues cats and kittens from a local shelter and fosters them until she can take them to cat shows and put them up for adoption there. Right before she came to see me, she tweeted that she had found two brown kittens. Brown? I had never heard of brown cats before.

I was immediately interested. So I tweet my interest back at her and she says, "I can bring them down so you can see them and if you don't like them, I'll take them back." I said sure, bring em on down:)

Well, I fell in love. They are just so darn cute and yes they are really brown. According to my friend they are very likely a breed known as Havana Browns that have been bred from Siamese. No wonder I was hooked so easily. Siamese are just about my all time favorite breed of cat.

My older cats are really pissed and only now have started coming back into the house. They still hiss and shy away from the kittens like these two tiny scraps of life are going to do them so damage. But, they'll adjust or they'll spend more time outside. The kittens are here to stay.

Purple Socks

I just completed this great pair of purple tweedish socks!  This is my first time at knitting with a pattern stitch and in the beginning I nearly gave it up as I had to "frog". (rip it) quite a few times before I got the hang of it.  Once I got the rhythm of the stitch it went easily and I am loving wearing these beauties.

They were knitted on size 1 needles using Stroll fingering weight sock yarn from Knit PIcks.www.knitpicks.com/knitting.cfm  I like this yarn.  It works up well, will know more after I wash them for the first time.  It is superwash merino wool with just a bit of poly something for stretch.

The pattern is called Hedgerow Socks and is offered as a free download at Ravelry..http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hedgerow-socks-2. 

I continue to knit mittens for charity, am sending them to a Native American reservation in the Dakotas and my next project will be a scarf.

Bicycling

I am so happy that I have taken up bike riding.  I can even stay up on it!  As a child I did not demonstrate a great deal of talent in the area of bicycle riding.  Received a beautiful blue Western Flyer for my 12 th birthday and immediately ran into a tree and dented the front fender.  Still have a scar from another bicycling incident.  Thus, it was with a wee bit of trepidation that I approached the concept of getting on a bike and riding it.  I did fall off twice in the beginning, but  did not get badly hurt.  My pride was a bit dinged. 

My first adult bike was a purple Wal Mart one, not a bad bike, but not super like the one I have now.  I was never comfortable on it, couldn't quite reach the ground and felt all shaky.  But, now I'm "cooking with gas".. for my upcoming 63rd birthday my wonderful husband bought me a  comfort bike complete with soft seat and front shock, aluminum frame and upright handle bars.  I am one very grateful woman!  I love this new bike and I love riding it.  We've been going out to the park and teaching our granddaughter, Anah to ride.  She's just starting out and is using training wheels. 


We love to ride on Sunday mornings in town when there is very little traffic and are planning an excursion to the Katy Trail that winds along the Missouri river just as soon as the leaves turn colors.

Putting Away the Wire

And so today I finished packing away my wire and beads.  I can't seem to find time or inspiration to make jewelry right now so am concentrating on my knitting projects.

Completed the first pair of mittens which are for a charity project that I got hooked up with via an Etsy friend.  They will be sent to a reservation in S.D.  If I can just figure out how to eliminate the little hole where the thumb attaches on I'll be more than pleased with the outcome.  Have started pair #2.

I continue to make socks, socks, socks.. and am just about ready to begin a pair for me.

I love my new knitting needles.. not only are they a delight to look at with their brightly colored wood, they are so smooth the yarn just glides along.  You can see them here.
. 
http://www.knitpicks.com/needles/wood_knitting_needles__L300306.html

And, while I was organizing my jewelry making stuff I found a little tree of life pendant that was almost finished and completed it, adding some fluorite and rose quartz beads, a strand of leather and a ready made clasp and voila a new necklace!

Magic House was Fun

http://www.magichouse.org/

Took the granddaughters to the Magic House in St. Louis, Mo recently. They have added new attractions and the girls really had a good time.

We've been going to the Magic House since the early 80's and every time we find something new and wonderful to learn and experience.

If you're in Missouri or visiting check it out.. a great place for children and for those of us who never want to grow up!

On Second Thought

Ok.. so I reread my post yesterday and felt like I was whining.. and what I really want to say is that I do so realize how difficult this whole thing is for my grandson. He is going to a new school, strarting his first job, and has been deserted by his mother. And, he is holding up really well.

I am proud of his resilience and his smiles in the face of so much change.

I appreciate his offers of help, love listening to him playing his guitar, and want so very much for him to succeed in his new endeavors.

I Never Imagined

I never imagined that I would be raising a teenager again.

Throughout the summer there have been many incidents of my son-in-law physically abusing my 17 year old grandson, Dylan. Dylan has come here for refuge several times. Now he is living here.

His mother, who had come to me for help and with every intention of divorcing the abusive husband has moved away and abandoned Dylan. I do know she is alive after talking to one of her neighbors, and I have found out that she has gone to a city about 400 miles away with said husband taking her two small children with her. She has left her job as a nurse, her very nice home is sitting empty and her dog and her son are with me. She has changed her cell phone number and has not been in touch with anyone in the family. Am I worried? Yes!

We converted what was the little kid's playroom back into a bedroom for Dylan and he is back in school. His mother let him drop out last year. He also has a job and we are all working to adjust.

Gosh its hard having someone in the house all the time. I find myself with little time for the computer, for making jewelry, for having fun. I know it will get easier as we settle into a routine. I hate to admit it, but I am being way too hard on myself for not feeling differently right now, not giving myself enough time to get used to all this it seems. Its just hard.

I am grateful that my husband and I have the room for this kid. He's bright and he's had such a hard time of it.

I wish my daughter would call. I hope she's doing ok.

And, I've got to go do laundry.

What's goin' on?

What am I doing?

I am busy.. I am freezing green beans, tomatoes and peaches. I am working to integrate my grandson into my life since he has moved in to my home to live. I am getting him ready for school.

I am working to accept that my daughter just moved away and left her son.

I am loving the company of my grandchildren large and small.

I am baking a pie for a neighbor whose husband died.

I am doing laundry.

Where have I been?

I went to see Heart in concert last Friday.. that was fun! It evoked great memories of concerts past and dreams of concerts future.

I went to St. Louis with two of my daughters and 3 grandchildren. We took the kids to the Magic House and watched them find their joy.

I'm up .. I'm down.. I'm all around.. dealing with lots of family drama.. trying not to let it get me down. I am facing life drug free and there are days I would like to take a hand full of pills, but I don't. I won't..

I'm learning to cope.. to find joy.. to let go.. to sing and dance again.. I have everything I need to etch some copper and when things calm down a bit, I'll be back making jewelry.. and I'm still knitting socks..

and now I've got to finish that pie..

love you all..

How about a pic from the night of the concert.. taken with my daughter's Blackberry..



xposted to LJ

Living, but not Blogging

I've been simply terrible about blogging this summer, too much life to live I think.

I ate delicious tomatoes from the garden instead of blogging.

I find myself twittering instead of blogging.

I find myself swimming instead of blogging.

Today I went shopping and purchased a lovely piece of denim for use in recovering the bar stools. Lots of grandchildren eating lots of meals and dropping lots of food particles on the old ones has rendered them quite nasty. I refuse to shampoo them one more time so am redoing them instead.


So, I'll be sewing instead of blogging.

I made several pairs of earrings and am nearly finished with a bracelet, took a trip to the lake, read a great many books, but didn't blog.

But, now I've blogged and I feel pretty darn good about it.

Swimming Pools

Just back in the house from a little dip in the pool. Now when I say pool don't get the idea that it is a huge inground pool.. nope nothing like that, but it is 12 ft in diameter and plenty deep enough to get good and cool in. Heck, I can even swim back and forth across it. And the grandgirls love it!

For years I had wanted a pool of this sort because *gosh* Missouri sure does get hot in the summer. Even the AC doesn't seem to keep me cool enough. My husband was adamant that a pool would #1 be too expensive, and #2 be too much work. When we tore down our old garage what remained was a large concreted pad.. hah I thought... the perfect spot for a pool. Thus, last year I just jumped in and went out and bought a pool. It was great. I loved it. One day all the water went out in a giant *whoosh*.. oops.. Big leak in the ring at the top, couldn't find the leak, couldn't fix it. So, I bought another pool, different syle, bigger, better and within two days it was ready to go. It has lasted thru the rest of last year's season and so far so good this year.

Husband.. who never gets in the pool... takes care of it, keeps it clean and everything in working order! He seems to have forgotten or let go of all his arguments against having it. Today I am grateful for the pool, for the husband who takes care of it and pays for the water, and the grandgirls who enjoy it so much.

Here's a pic of my first pool which is a bit smaller as am I, and the grandgirls enjoying the one I have now:)



xposted to LJ "Rosegardenfae"

An Attempt at Being a Diarist

I know I don't post very often. Summer is a very busy time of year especially with all the gardening going on. In an attempt to better record simple daily happenings I am posting today.

Morning.. delivered bookcase, computer desk, and file cabinet to my oldest granddaughter who lives about 30 minutes away. Went there with youngest daughter and enjoyed playing with Josiah, the Miracle Baby who continues to thrive and smile and is now crawling.

Came home picked a HUGE bowl of green beans, one of the stainless steel "mother bowls" as they are known around here. Hope someone comes by to pick some up. They are beautiful. I appreciate Erin's help in the picking.

After picking since we were very hot, Erin and I got in the pool and cooled off. Ate a bit of lunch and then pulled up some of the going to seed lettuce and planted beets and eggplant. Wasn't able to find eggplant starts so this is an experiment to see if the seeds will actually come up. These went into the raised bed. Soil there looks really good! Years of compost pays off!

Did not see the Manifesting Monday thread so let me say that I appreciate good health and prosperity and the way it continues for myself and my family. I love the beautiful flowers, vegetables, butterflies and birds. And, I am most appreciative that my relationship with my husband is improving. We've always been friends and that is enough:)

Big wind last night left leaves and debris scattered across the newly mown lawn. I'm thinking that it will lay there till its time to mow again at which time it will be chopped to bits. I'm sure not picking it up! More wind in the forecast for tonight anyways. What is it with the wind? Every year it increases. Chopping down too many trees!!

And, of course I can't resist a picture.. how about one near the pool. I'm very happy with the way that area has blossomed this year, it's a great place to relax.

Love and blessings to all!




xposted to LJ

A Bit of Wire Wrapping Re Enters My life

Recently I enjoyed making a few pieces of jewelry again. I had all but gotten rid of my beads and wire thinking that maybe I would never do this sort of work again. But, I am pleased that the urge to play with wire came at me again and I grabbed on and got busy. As is usually my habit I made the first pair from copper. I love the look of the copper especially with the peridot beads and the rosy headpins fromHigher ChakraSupply. For the silver ones I chose sodalite beads for the accents along with some 2mm silver beads and plain headpins. I like them. I'll wear them. My kids will wear them. It's all good!

First Pair of Socks Complete

I just realized that I never posted a picture of the finished socks.. and now I've almost finished two more pair.. I really like this particular yarn, Lang's Jawoll Sock Yarn, and I've now got three more balls of it in my yarn stash.

Anah's New Hairdo

Anah has been talking a lot about wanting straight hair, not liking her curls, wanting to have hair like her mom's.. an awful lot of thinking too much about what she looks like for a six year old. Not wanting to chemically straighten the child's hair, her mother purchased some "stuff" with natural ingredients and headed off to the beauty salon where said "stuff" was duly applied and then her hair was blow dried and flatironed with a whole different girl emerging.. It lasted only a day. By the second day the high humidity was causing the curls to return, but for that one day Anah was very happy with her new look. She tossed her head this way and that and ran her hands through the long strands. Personally I prefer the curls, and have spent a lot of time and money on perms for my hair to get them. Perhaps it's just that we always want what we don't have?

Wordless Wednesday

Gardens are Growing

I have just been so slothful when it comes to blogging but I've been really busy and it just seems to take a back seat sometimes.

Still working steadily on the socks.. almost finished with the first pair!

Here's what I've been working on outside:

First the garden path.. the whole thing had to be lifted and new sand put down underneath.. and we did one of the brick patios too!

Right now the iris are blooming and they are certainly beautiful:)

I've been picking salad greens for a couple of weeks and they are delicious..

And the girls are loving the new hanging chair too!

Knitting Socks

I've got to say that I just love knitting socks! At first I was confused dismayed and frustrated as I worked to learn how to control four tiny knitting needles. It felt like knitting with toothpicks. Time passes.. doesn't it always? and with practice and patience I feel comfortable with the needles and, in fact, like using the little ones much better than the bigger ones. The needles are siz 1 1/2 and are wooden.. another thing I love, wooden needles.. and the yarn is cool too.. what fun to see how the stripes come together and wonder what color is coming up next. The yarn for my first pair is reasonably monochromatic, but just wait the next pair is going to be done in rainbow color.. can't wait. It is a fingering weight yard of wool, cotton, and nylon.

Creating the heel was a challenge, but I am pleased with the result and the next one will be much easier. Moving on to the toe now and soon the first sock will be complete! I have many future knitting projects in mind, but for right now it's socks!

And, sure I've got a picture..

Daffodils

I've been very busy working outside in the yard and gardens and have not been online much of late, thus no blogging.. this is a quick one with daffodil pictures.. the cooler temperatures have allowed the bulbs to stay in bloom a long time this spring, but warm weather has come and they are fading fast. I've a lot to be grateful for as always.. lovely weather, beautiful flowers, loving grandchildren, happy family, good health, improving knitting skills, stable income, increased energy, up time, down time, time, good books, wonderful home.. and now for pictures

My Horoscope Today from Free Will Astrology

   SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): If intelligent extraterrestrial beings
arrived on planet Earth and asked for a meeting, who would we send forth
to serve as our ambassador? Believe it or not, the favorite choice, as
determined in an Internet poll, was heavy metal musician and TV
personality Ozzy Osbourne. Although he wouldn't be my own top
candidate, I could see how a Sagittarian pioneer like Osbourne would make
sense. Your tribe is especially adept right now at facilitating
unprecedented combinations. If anyone could successfully compare apples
and oranges, it would be you. If anyone could explain to an anthropologist
from Mars the deeper meaning of Paris Hilton and the Octo-mom and the
American government's purchase of toxic assets, it would be you.

I'm Knitting

Went to the library on Monday where an old friend is teaching knitting classes and I have been inspired to pick up my needles again. I finished a dishcloth in a gorgeous red yarn. I started it before Christmas, and today began another dishcloth in variegated blues. I find that these small pieces are a great way to introduce myself to new stitches.

I also ordered a kit for a delightful purse and some yarn for socks. Will be going to the city next week to pick up a bicycle for Anah's birthday and while I"m there am going to a local yarn shop to get some bamboo needles for the socks, and then I'm ready for the knitting adventure to begin in earnest.

I seem to have lost interest in jewelry making and certainly am not into selling it anymore, but need a new way to express myself creatively. I have two new books on collage making and am also tending to think about working in collage again sometime quite soon. It feels good to let go of the need to be a commercial success and to make art for its own sake alone

Today the sun is brightly shining and I plan to get out and work in the yard again. The days that have been available for working outside have been spotty so far this spring so I jump at any chance to get going out there. I am thinking to place my focus on the herb garden today as I have done little out there so far.

I am grateful for sunshine, energy and desire for gardening work, emerging creativity, reconnection with old friends and the love of my family.

Namaste`

xposted to LJ Rosegardenfae

The Mexican Riviera - a great place to vacation!!

The computer issue has gratefully resolved and so before I become involved in working outside today here are some pictures from my vacation on the Yucatan Peninsula aka The Mexican Riviera. The hotel staff welcomed us with a glass of champagne and continued during our stay to be helpful and courteous. I felt like a queen with all the attention. We took a tour of the hotel's greenhouse and after hearing about all the ways in which this particular hotel uses "green" technology knew that we had made a good choice and will go there again. The whole family is saving money for another trip to Hacienda Tres Rios.

The food was ever present and delicious, a constant array of delights in which I indulged to my heart's content. We tasted every strange dish, enjoyed ocotopus kebabs, reveled in fresh fruit and were awed by the avacados.

The beds were soft and the pillows plump. The three pools stretched out forever and were a great place to lounge. I loved the beds on the beach, what fun. Went on a foray into the jungle and paddled back down the river to the ocean in a kayak. Took a side trip to the ecopark, Xcaret, http://www.xcaret.com/, where my granddaughter swam with the dolphins, creating lifelong memories.

Didn't want to come home to the freezing temperature lol.. but am grateful that we survived the worst plane ride of my entire life! And now for pictures....

The Pools

Our Favorite Spot for Breakfast

How about a nap on the beach?

And YES I did rest!!

Ah the beautiful blue ocean!
Anah swims with the dolphins!

Adios Amigos

I'm all about traveling these days and tomorrow night will be driving to Kansas City for the first leg in my trip to the Mexican Riviera. I am going there with my youngest daughter and granddaughter. We will flying out of KCI at 9:30 a.m. and expect to land in sunny Mexico about 2:30 in the afternoon. We will return to Missouri next Wednesday night.

The accomodations are terrific..

http://haciendatresrios.com/

Our trip plan is all inclusive so food and drink are included.. I can't wait to eat, drink, and be merry, lounge on the beach, get a tan, soak up sun, see the sights, enjoy wildlife, hear my granddaughter's laughter, be with my daughter, wear my new clothes, and be joyful, grateful, and at peace. Of course I don't have to wait.. I have all these things and more right now!

My daughter has been down there several times, but this is my first trip and I am so excited! I am taking lots of pictures and will write another post when I get back.

I am grateful for my daughter who bought me the ticket.
I am grateful for my husband who takes care of things at home.
I am grateful for the abundance of the universe.
I am grateful for the love that surrounds and upholds me.
I am grateful for good health and wonderful body.


adios amigos.. vaya con dios..

My New Earrings

Nothing difficult about making these new earrings, but I really do enjoy wearing them. I created them especially for my Texas vacation and will take them to Mexico too! Did I mention that I'm going to Mexico next week? Yes, another trip, this time to near Playa del Carmen with my daughter and granddaughter. More on that later.

And ah the earrings are made using a copper connector, various sizes and shapes of copper beads and some 3mm turquoise for color.

Rain and Spaghetti

I've let this blank page sit here for hours now because I don't have a catchy title for today.. weird I know, but that's what has happened. While the temperatures are warm it is raining outside and I believe that I delayed my scheduled walk a bit too long and unless it clears I will be exercising in the house again.

I have really enjoyed our Wii Fit and it keeps me in line as far as working out goes. I let go of quite a lot of weight during the benzo withdrawal and am happy with this unexpected side effect so am trying hard to keep the weight off. Along with the Wii fit I am using a DVD by Leslie Sansone that is based on walking with a lot of upper body involvement that really gets your heart rate elevated. I am up to doing two miles with Leslie and if I walk in the park can now do close to 3 miles. I am happy to be back to exercising on a regular basis as it lifts my spirit while maintaining good health.

Last night was Anah's basketball practice.. what a hoot! Most of those kindergarteners and first graders are pretty clueless about how to play and I laughed and laughed at their antics. Family members were invited to play and I even got out on the court with her and Erin. Now that was a sight to see as I haven't played basketball in 35 years or more. It was FUN!

Planning to make spaghetti later. Rogie and her family are coming over and Anah will be here after school so spaghetti seems like a good meal for a hungry horde like that. It's wonderful to feel like cooking for folks again.

and a few grats..

I am grateful for the rain. It's been a dry winter.
I appreciate my family and the joy of grandchildren.
I love being able to go to the grocery and get whatever I need.
I am grateful to feel good enough to play basketball with my granddaughter and to be a part of her life.
I am super happy to feel spring in the air and to see signs of its advent everywhere I look.

Namaste`

Gone and Back Again

Just back from a short vacation to San Antonio, Texas. I truly meant to write about it while I was down there and took along the laptop for that very purpose. But alas, the internet connection at the hotel was the pits and so nothing got done. At first I was frustrated by that outcome, but decided that the Universe simply wanted me to have time away from electronics and so it was.

I had a wonderful time, lots of good food, great company, long strolls along the Riverwalk, fantastic spa experiences, and just general relaxation. I am super grateful for my wonderful kind loving daughter, Tracy, who took me along on a business trip. Every once in a while I get the opportunity to accompany her and always jump at the chance.

I had not been in San Antonio since the late 1980's so it had been a while. I will certainly try to get back down there and do some of the things I missed this time around.

I didn't stop my yahoo group mail since I thought I'd have a connection, so have been wading through tons of email today, but am nearly caught up now.

The weather was incredible down south.. temps mid 80's and I am pleased that it is warm here at home now too! I can feel spring in the air now which is very exciting, have planted lettuce, spinach, onions and potatoes and the crocus are blooming.. Bring it on.. I am so ready!

Wordless Wednesday

Another Step Forward

As I continue to reinvent myself I was able to take another step forward and volunteer at my granddaughter's Valentine Day's party. If I can handle a room full of squealing kindergarteners then I can do anything! Hooray for healing and progress!

I am grateful for grandchildren and their unconditional love!

And while I'm thinking about grandchldren.. I am also grateful for great grandchildren and the wonderful way in which Baby Josiah, my second great grandson is growing.. born at 27 weeks gestation, he now weighs over 12 lbs, is cooing, gooing, and smiling up a storm.



May you all be blessed today and every day~
Namaste`

What's in a Name? by Danielle Fox

Got this in my email and thought it worth reprinting.. some good ideas on how to name your jewelry projects from the editor of "Stringing".. Danielle Fox

You remember the famous line Shakespeare’s Juliet says to her Romeo, “What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Well, I beg to differ, Miss Capulet. Here in the Stringing and Beadwork offices, we place high importance on names, or, in our case, titles. For instance, would you, dear Beading Daily reader, prefer to make a project called Red and White Beads on Steel Wire Necklace or Beach-ball Bling? I rest my case.

Michelle Mach, Beading Daily’s editor, brought it to my attention that coming up with good titles is something people—herself included—struggle over sometimes. As the editor of Stringing magazine, I assign and edit titles so often, I don’t really give much thought to the mechanics behind it anymore. So, when asked by Michelle to share some title advice, I had to stop and think a bit. What do I and the rest of the Stringing staff think about when naming projects? Here’s what I came up with:

4 Tips for Naming Your Jewelry Projects

1. Keep it short. One to three words is best. In Stringing magazine, we don’t have much room for titles—they have to fit on one line. Keep in mind that it’s not necessary to say “Necklace” or “Bracelet” in the title, either. Usually the introductions and/or photos clarify what the projectis. Here’s a shorter-is-better example: Lorelei Eurto’s fabulous necklace on the cover of the new Stringing Spring 2009, A Jealous Mistress, was originally named Art Is a Jealous Mistress for the saying on her focal piece. We took off the words “Art Is,” which shortens the title but retains the intrigue.

2. Relate it to your design without being too literal. Think about it: If all titles were literal, every project in Stringing would be called Pretty Strung Necklace or some variation of that. When naming your project, think about what materials are used, what/who your project reminds you of (could be an emotion, a character in a book, a season, a place, etc.), or what distinguishes your project—is it simple, colorful, striking, etc.? Molly Schaller chose an excellent name for her piece in Stringing Spring 2009 that was designed around a pewter pendant with a bubble design: Effervescence. It’s short and it describes the bubbly nature of the project.

3. Make them fun! Alliteration. Onomatopoeia. Figures of speech. Plays on words. Kookie references. Bring it on! Everything about making jewelry should be fun, after all. One of my favorite titles from the new Stringing Spring 2009 is Mrs. Roper’s Earrings. The colorful floral earrings were created (and named) by Tracey Johnson, whose title pays homage to the flashy landlady from the late-seventies show Three’s Company.

4. French-ify it! A joke we have here in the Stringing and Beadwork office is that when all other ideas fail, find a French word to throw in your title. Don’t believe me? I named a project Enamel Amour in my upcoming book with coauthor Melinda Barta, Beadwork’s editor, Mixed Metals: Creating Contemporary Jewelry with Silver, Gold, Brass & More. And Melinda named a beautiful berry-inspired necklace she made for Beadwork (October/November 2008) Flirty Framboise (framboise being French for raspberry). French words just have that je ne sais quoi.

Remember to send me your titles (and the projects attached to them) for consideration in Stringing magazine. See the contributor guidelines for details and upcoming deadlines.

---

Danielle Fox is the editor of Stringing, author of Simply Modern Jewelry, and coauthor of Mixed Metals. If you have questions or comments for Danielle, please post them on the website.

Wordless Wednesday

January Seems Long

January has seemed like the longest month ever and I realized today that I haven't posted in some time. Why?

I haven't posted because I haven't felt good, and didn't want sound like a whiner because after all I made the decision to get off valium, didn't I?

But, in the interests of my being able to look back at this post someday and see how the whole thing went down, I am posting today to say that the road to recovery is full of bumps. After feeling like I was "out of the woods" mid January saw me struggling with super anxiety, panic attacks and nasty self confidence issues. Thus I became quiet, didn't want anyone to know I wasn't the poster child for benzo withdrawal.

But, on a positive note, I haven't broke down and taken a dose. Oh, I've thought about it many times. But, after all I've been through getting off the drugs I feel like I've got to continue on my chosen path. Research reveals that most folks take at least a year and some a whole lot longer to get totally well. I am called to be patient, to be gentle with myself and to take time out to relax more.

I'm reasonably certain that I've done too much during the days that I was feeling so good.. shopping trips, vacations, family dinners, and much housecleaning.. and now my CNS has it's knickers in a knot lol.. so I will treat myself better, take a long hot bath, read another book, watch another movie and remember I am in the process of healing.

I continue to be grateful.. for all the birds who come to my feeders, for my family, my husband's help and support, letting go of so much weight and being able to wear a size 8 again.. a lifestyle that gives me the opportunity to rest, and glimpses into all that life holds for me as I continue to get better and better.

Moriah's "Crone Wisdom"

Some people confuse acceptance with apathy,

but there's all the difference in the world.


Apathy fails to distinguish between

what can and what cannot be helped;

acceptance makes that distinction.


Apathy paralyzes the will-to-action;

acceptance frees it by relieving it of impossible burdens.

Oh oh.. I've Been Tagged

Wow I almost forgot that I had been tagged, but thanks to Twitter and a blurb by The Filigree Garden, I remembered in time. I was tagged by Chris from Fused Glass and now I have to come up with 7 random things about me.. things you may not already know.. things you probably don't want to know.. lol.. or just things!

1. I've been married four times
2. I have two great grandsons.
3. I didn't go to college until I was past 45.
4. Three of my four daughters are nurses.
5. I once hugged Ziggy Marley.
6. I was a "Deadhead"... Grateful Dead Follower/groupie for many years.
7. I used to do singing telegrams dressed as a Playboy bunny!

And I am supposed to tag 7 more people, but you know what I just can't. It's not that I don't want to play along, and you can call me a spoil sport if you want.. but I just can't.

I Made Something!!

Since the title of this blog is about making things I am happy to announce that I made a bracelet. It's been a long time since I've felt creative and this project sure did make me feel good. Made in copper with turquoise beads it is a prototype for upcoming versions in silver. Thought I had the right size wire, but oops not so.. so the project is on hold till supplies arrive. It is incredibly comforting to know that I still can and will make things again.

This pattern is from a tutorial from Eni Oken's Jewelry Making site, a place I love to go and look at new ideas and buy tutorials at which to try my hand.

You Just Got to LOVE Maxine!

Last night my sister and I were sitting in the den and I said to her, 'I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some machine and fluids from a bottle to keep me alive. That would be no quality of life at all. If that ever happens, just pull the plug.'

So she got up, unplugged the computer, and threw out my wine.

She's such a bitch.

The Great Wolf Lodge Adventure

On January 1 two of my daughters and I along with their daughters ages 4 and 5 drove to Kansas City, Kansas for a two day stay at the Great Wolf Lodge. What is the Great Wolf Lodge you might ask.. and then I would say well it is a hotel/motel combined with an indoor water park and other child oriented activities. A bit on the pricey side but since there were 3 adults we were able to split the cost and come out nicely.

I was impressed by the hotel's emphasis on "being green", the first time I have stayed in a room that had a recycle bin in the room! The food was delicious, healthy and we enjoyed eating constantly. The indoor water park was loud so I wore ear plugs:) There were water slides, a lazy river, hot tubs, wading pools and a really warm swim area, all contained within the three story building, amazing really. The children were enthralled and spent several hours each day delighting in the water activities while it was cold cold outside.

On our last evening we drove next door to Legends Mall where we ate at the T-Rex Restaurant. Wow.. dinosaurs everywhere, big ones. The dinosaurs roared, a volcano on a huge screen erupted. We sat under a giant octopus whose tentacles constantly moved. On the next level was a woolly mammoth complete with artificial snow and the gift shop ceiling was comprised of a BIG model of the solar system. The granddaughters squealed with delight every time the dinosaur bellowed and shrieked as the lava started to flow on screen. The food was good, abundant and served nicely. An all around great experience.


I am incredibly grateful to have been able to have this experienced with my family. This is the first time I have left home since I started coming off the head meds and I sailed through it wonderfully, couldn't ask for more!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

The future belongs to those

who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

I Feel GREAT!!

I am now 27 days away from taking my lase dose of valium and I feel great! Symptoms are dropping away on a daily basis now.

Had an active day yesterday, even got out some wire to make a bracelet so it seems creative idea are slowly reappearing in my head.

I continue to feel normal, normal for me I think at least! I am pleased that I no longer have feelings of derealization.. that's way cool .. I am going on a short vacation to Kansas City next week and looking foward to some time seeing other scenery.

The weather is more back to normal today. Yesterday we experienced really wild weather.. tornadoes in an adjacent county, lots of thunderstorms with lightening and high winds.. crazy for this time of year. Freezing temps last night, but sun today and a high in the 40's so not bad. We had some flooding, but I live on the top of a hill so not affected by that.

I intend to continue to feel good, to continue to leave sx's by the wayside and to live life to its fullest.

I intend to begin creating jewelry again.

I intend to enjoy the company of my family.

I intend to help others on the road to recovery.

I intend to celebrate LIFE!

Love and healing energy to all!

xposted LJ "Rosegardenfae"

Happy Holidays

Wishing everyone a fabulous holiday season, no matter how you celebrate it! This is simply the best christmas for me in such a long time. I have turned a big corner in my healing process and was able to enjoy yesterday with my family feeling clear and able to have real FUN.. May you all be blessed during this season and the coming new year!

Butterfly Award

The Filigree Garden bestowed an award on my blog and mentioned me too and in return I am passing on the "Butterfly Award" to ten more blogs that I read and enjoy!

You also may want to check out Filigree Garden's shop on Etsy which is well worth a look! Here you will find a blend of vintage and new handmade jewelery.

And my awards go to:

1. Joonbeam
   
2. Nefaeria
3. Six Sisters
   
4. Hemlock Hollow
   
5. Fehustoneware
   
6. Crochet n' Garden
   
7. Jean Levert Hood
   
8. Grecian Gold
   
9. J Stinson
   
10. Designs By Christine
    

Now those receiving the awards are urged to do the following:
1. Post a copy on your blog.
2. Mention who gave you the award.
3. Pass the award on to 10 others.
4. Leave a message on their blog letting them know the honour has been bestowed upon them.

RIP First Lady of Star Trek

Majel Leigh Hudec was born in Cleveland, Ohio, where she grew up. When she was ten, she enrolled in an acting workshop. She continued her interest in acting at Shaker Heights High School but went to college with the intent of becoming a legal clerk. Majel attended law school for a year, but after receiving an 'F' in contract law, she moved to New York and landed parts in, "Models By Season," which was staged in Boston. Then she did a nine-month run in "The Solid Gold Cadillac," which toured New Orleans, Texas, Oklahoma and San Francisco, California.

Deciding the competition was too stiff in New York, Majel moved to California and the Pasadena Playhouse. There she got a role in, "All for Mary." In the late fifties, she worked in various Paramount films, including, "Black Orchid," "As Young as We Are," and "The Buccaneer." Then she decided that the real progress was happening in television and that's where she wanted to be.

After appearing in several series, like, Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, Window on Main Street, Bonanza, and Pete and Gladys, she met Lucille Ball at an acting class and was signed to a contract with Desilu. Soon after she appeared in an episode of the Lucy Show, called "Lucy is a Kangaroo for a Day."

In 1964, when she was no longer under exclusive contract, Majel accepted a guest role on the new MGM series, The Lieutenant, produced by Gene Roddenberry. Majel became good friends with Gene and ultimately, years later, became his wife.

Later in 1964, Roddenberry cast her in a co-starring role in "The Cage," the pilot for his science fiction series, Star Trek. She played 'Number One,' second in command on a fictitious starship. However, the character's strength and authority in the Star Trek universe was unsettling to NBC and they ordered a second pilot made, without the woman, Number One.

When Roddenberry sold his second Star Trek pilot to the network, he remembered Majel's work in "The Cage" and hired her as Nurse Christine Chapel. Instead of the dark-haired M. Leigh Hudec that they had disliked in the other pilot, she now used the name Majel Barrett and wore a blond wig as Chapel. Majel remains the only actor to have contributed to every facet of the Star Trek phenomenon.

On August 6, 1969, Majel married Gene Roddenberry in Japan, in a traditional Buddhist-Shinto ceremony. They regarded this as their real wedding, but his divorce was not yet final and they made it legal with a civil ceremony on December 29, 1969. On February 5th, 1974, they welcomed the arrival of their newborn son, Eugene Wesley Roddenberry, Jr., known affectionately as "Rod."

Since Roddenberry's death, Barrett produced the sci-fi series Andromeda with Kevin Sorbo and Earth: Final Conflict. In 1996, Barrett, often called "The First Lady of Star Trek," guest starred on Babylon 5, the science fiction series that was widely considered to be Star Trek's challenger and competitor. Farther outside the Star Trek universe, Barrett appeared in A Guide to the Married Man with Walter Matthau, Westworld with Yul Brynner, and The Domino Principle with Gene Hackman, but her roles in such films were always small. She also voiced the computer in an episode of Family Guy

Most recently, she reprised her role as the voice of the USS Enterprise for the new movie, Star Trek XI.

Majel owned and operated Lincoln Enterprises, a mail order business that she and Gene started to deal with the mountain of requests for Star Trek-related materials. Some of her hobbies include golf, gold working, gourmet cooking and gem cutting.

Majel Barrett Roddenberry passed away December 18, 2008, at 12:27 AM in her Bel Air home. She died peacefully, in her sleep, and was surrounded by family and loved ones.

I Can, I Anticipate, I Know

Having been reminded by both my body and my mind that I am still "on the road" to recovery and not at the end I am stealing this format from a friend of mine as I find it helpful to remind myself just where I am right now and where I want to go. I begin with things I couldn't do a month ago and now I can do:

I can:

Go an entire day without crying.
Make jewelry again.
Enjoy a pain free day.
Laugh.
Go several hours without thinking of withdrawal.
Leave the house on my own.
Go to walmart.
Grocery shop.

I look forward to:

A return of my creativity.
Dancing.
Getting up feeling happy.
Relief from anxiety.
The return of self-confidence.

I know:

That all of this happened for a reason.
That I am stronger for going through it.
That I appreciate being normal much more than I ever dreamed possible.
That I have learned a lot and met a lot of wonderful people I would never have known had I not had
the experience of benzo addiction.
That I will recover fully and totally in time.
How to be much more gentle with myself.
That I am not crazy!

Wishing everyone a day filled with happiness and the appreciation of simple things!

Love, Love, Love

xposted LJ

What a Wonderful Day

Wow and double wow what a wonderful day I had yesterday!! How great it is to enjoy the simple things in life! Two of my daughters got together and arranged for a makeover for their older sister. They said she was stuck in the 80's lol. So, after having about 10 inches cut off her hair and some streaks added, she looks wonderful and is so very happy with the present her sister gave her for her 44th birthday. I watched two granddaughters ages 4 and 5 while the girls were off to the salon and then we all went out to dinner together. Just an all around lovely wonderful beautiful day. Oldest daughter is the tallest one.. and yes I am dwarfed by them all. The only one who is actually about my height couldn't be with us.



Today's intentions:

To remain calm and centered.
To relax and take a long hot bath.
To be gentle with myself.
To love and be loved.

I am grateful for:

A lovely home.
Plenty of wood to keep said home warm.
A beautiful note from my granddaughter.
A loving supportive family.

Yesterday's Succeses:

A really normal day.
My oldest daughter's great makeover.
Great workout session.
Feeling wonderful.

To do list:

Knit.
Read.
Enjoy life.
Cook.

Namaste` my wonderful friends, may today find you enjoying life and it's many blessings!

Love, Love, Love

BENZO FREE

Yes indeed I took my last little dose on Sunday and now I am done with the taper and moving on toward total recovery. Thought I've read that it takes a year or more to fully regain one's health, I don't intend for it to take that long for me. After all each of us is different physiologically and psychologically and I know how to set intentions and work with LOA and I know that my body is a wonderful machine totally capable of healing anything and everything.

Earlier this morning I got a bit upset because I couldn't find any mixing bowls at any of the stores in town. I knew that they no doubt had some at the local walmart, but I loathe that store and the last time I was in there experienced a major meltdown. So, I came home from town feeling low and angry with myself that I didn't feel up to visiting "the wal"..

But, after a bit of working on meself and me attitude, I discovered that I was feeling much better. Feeling so good, in fact, that I got in my Jeep, put in a reggae tape and went to "the wal" and came back with some lovely mixing bowls for my daughter's birthday. Amazing how this simple thing has boosted my self confidence and helped me to see that I am healing and that I will be able to do thing again. So, it's down with self doubt and onward to healing and taking back my life.

Today I am grateful that I took a step forward.

I appreciate that my husband understood my need to reestablish my autonomy and let me go alone.

I am very happy to have let go of my dependence on drugs and can see that the future is opening up before me with bright colors.

And I'm glad that when I got lost in the damn store I found some yarn to knit some more dishcloths lolo..

Love to all,

May blessings find you today and every day!

xposted LJ rosegardenfae

Blog Analyzer Results

Fun little thing to do and many thanks to baba studio for giving me the link to Typealyzer:

Have your blog analyzed!

The analysis indicates that the author of http://mysticmooma.blogspot.com is of the type:

ISTP - The Mechanics

The independent and problem-solving type. They are especially attuned to the demands of the moment are masters of responding to challenges that arise spontaneously. They generally prefer to think things out for themselves and often avoid inter-personal conflicts.

The Mechanics enjoy working together with other independent and highly skilled people and often like seek fun and action both in their work and personal life. They enjoy adventure and risk such as in driving race cars or working as policemen and firefighters.

Happy Birthday to ME

Sunday was my 62nd birthday and it was delightful day. Three of my four daughters came out to the house and I was surrounded by love, received wonderful gifts, had lunch delivered along with a homemade cake and enjoyed watching my granddaughters play. Seriously it was the best birthday I've had in a long time!!

My husband gave me a laptop and I was really surprised about that! Also received a wonderful fuzzy purple blanket to wrap up on chilly evenings, two Tarot decks for my collection, some cool glow in the dark rocks for outside plants, nice smelling shower gel, a great calendar for next year, rainbow colored gloves.. and even more. I tell you I am totally blessed!!

The most moving present of all was given to me by my youngest daughter in celebration of my letting go of my dependence on valium. She made me two CD's one has songs that speak of the things I left behind. It begins with the Rolling Stones singing "Mother's LIttle Helper".. how appropriate lol.. And the other features songs that celebrate the way life is opening up for me. She put a lot of work into these and I played them and just bawled like a baby.

Life is busy right now with the upcoming holiday and shopping to do, but I wanted to say here in writing just how much I appreciated this birthday and how significant it has been in a long string of birthdays. For sure, I'm NOT getting older, I'm getting BETTER!

I am grateful for the love and support of my family!

I appreciate the many many blessings in this life of mine.

Namaste`

May you all be blessed today and every day of you life:)

xposted LJ

It's A Wonderful Sale & HoLiDaY Prize Drawing from my BBEST Friends

I belong to a great Etsy Team, Boomers and Beyond or BBEST and right now they are having a really great holiday sale combined with the opportunity to win a great free prize from those shown in the collage you see here.

If you have not yet registered as an Etsy visitor, go to http://www.etsy.com, and click on Register. Now you're ready to begin!"


TWO ways to enter. NO PURCHASE REQUIRED.
RULES:

Play this way ... Holiday Hide & Seek:
Simply hunt through the shops below and look for the BBEST avatar

It is randomly placed in one listing item photo slot in some of our shops.

Find the avatar. Copy the listing ID of the items where you find the avatar. When you've found 10, convo/contact the BBEST shop with your list. Do not reveal any hidden avatar locations to any eligible players. Your name will be entered into our random prize drawing! Limit one entry per Etsian.

EXEMPT from this version are those team members who have a hidden avatar in their shops.

EXEMPT from both versions are joonbeam, chauncey and sixsisters who are the team leaders and organizers of this sale and game.

Play this way:
Support Handmade. Save Money. For every $1 you spend in our participating shops, listed below, your name will be entered into the random prize drawing. All three prize packages will be given away.

a.) You must enter BBEST in the notes to seller upon checkout.
b.) only complete dollar amounts (ie. $7.65 = 7 entries) from each shop count. No amounts less than $1 will be combined between or among multiple shop purchases.
c.) the final sale price dollar amounts coincide with your entries . In other words, regardless of when the discounted price is finalized, the discounted total dollars determine the number of entries. (For example, some sale transactions are handled via convo / reserved listing with the sale price, others purchase and get a revised invoice.) If a shop has a mix of sale (reduced price) items and non sale items, all purchases do count toward your dollar amounts.
d.) excludes shipping/handling costs. Item costs only.
e.) Only purchase dollars from transactions with the shops in this list and made between 12:01AM Etsy Time, November 12, 2008 and 11:59 PM etsy time, November 17, 2008 qualify.
Winners will be announced on our team blog: http://boomersandbeyond.blogspot.com on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at NOON Etsy Time.

You must come by and look for the winner's etsy ID names listed there. Winners have 3 (three) days to convo the team BBEST shop with their mailing address or forfeit their prize and subsequent names will be drawn.

You can play either or both ways. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received.
Each shop owner has their own sale style and terms, which you will find in their shop announcement.

We are all convo friendly. Do not hesitate to contact us with your questions or requests! Thank you for shopping with us and HaPpY HoLiDaYs!

Participating shops:

ART

Yankeegirl’s Watercolors, http://yankeegirl.etsy.com
On A Whimsey, http://onawhimsey.etsy.com
Purelypainting, http://purelypainting.etsy.com
Sixsisters, http://sixsisters.etsy.com
Van Fleet Street Design, http://VanFleetStreetDesign.etsy.com
Fairy Frond, http://fairyfrond.etsy.com
Althea Peregrine, http://AltheaP.etsy.com
Jean Levert Hood, http://JeanHood.etsy.com
Lemachi Gallery http://lemachigallery.etsy.com
Heron Kate, http://heronkate.etsy.com
Artmixter, http://artmixter.etsy.com

CRAFT SUPPLIES & CREATIONS

Circle In The Sand, http://circleinthesand.etsy.com
GinaBEE Supply http://ginabeesupply.etsy.com
The Button Hole, http://ButtonHole.etsy.com
Lemachi Designs, http://LemachiDesigns.etsy.com

FABRIC & YARN ARTS

The Knotty Sheep, http://theknottysheep.etsy.com
Sassa Lynne at Etsy, http://sassalynne.etsy.com
Precious Quilts http://preciousquilts.etsy.com
Asianexpressions, http://Asianexpressions.etsy.com
Whimseys, http://whimseys.etsy.com

GLASS

Firefly Glass Design, http://fireflyglassdesign.etsy.com
Chris1 http://Chris1.etsy.com
Nonnie’s Treasures, http://Nonnie60.etsy.com
Chauncey Design, http://Chauncey.etsy.com

HOME DECOR ART

Jill’s Treasure Chest, http://JillsTreasureChest.etsy.com
joonbeam, http://joonbeam.etsy.com
Glitz n Glass, http://GlitznGlass.etsy.com
Lord’s Living World, http://lordslivingworld.etsy.com
The Wild Hare, http://thewildhare.etsy.com
Talking Dog Productions, http://TalkingDog.etsy.com
The Good Old Days, http://GoodOldDays.etsy.com


JEWELRY

Sending Love Gallery, http://sendinglovegallery.etsy.com
Kathy's Krafty Kreations, http://kathyskraftykreation.etsy.com
Magdalene Jewels, http://MagdaleneJewels.etsy.com
Night Sky Jewelry, http://nightskyjewelry.etsy.com
Hemlock Hollow Creations, http://hemlockhollow.etsy.com
The Filigree Garden, http://thefiligreegarden.etsy.com
Rosegardenfae, http://rosegardenfae.etsy.com
Kittyd, http://kittyd.etsy.com
Ghi-Goo-ie Designs by Joni Stinson, http://jstinson.etsy.com
maryeb jewelry designs, http://maryeb.etsy.com
Anna’s Jewelry, http://Annasjewelry.etsy.com
Wrist Wrap Works, http://WristWrapWorks.etsy.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Beth Peardon Prods, http://BethPeardonProds.etsy.com

POLYMER CLAY ART

ZudaGay, http://ZudaGay.etsy.com

Time for a Short Trip

After an incredibly busy weekend which included a baby shower for Josiah who will likely becoming home very soon, and a birthday party for
Tai Minh, who is now one, and having five year old Anah with me while her Mom was on a mini vacation to New Orleans, I am getting an all paid for wee little
trip to Illinois where daughter #2 has a meeting. We're leaving in about an hour and will drive there and then I get to loll about in the hot tub and lovely hotel room, and also meet up with a jewelry making friend I met online, while daugther attends dreary meetings. Will get to eat lovely food in the evenings all paid for, and maybe even get in some shopping. Will be fab to have a change of scenery even if I am staying in the Midwest and it's cold and rather dank here, at least I'm out of my house! Leaving today and be back home Wednesday night.. LOL I aid Short!!

This is the first trip type adventure I've attempted while doing withdrawal, but see no reason not to give it a whirl. I'm a week away from the last cut I made and other than a meltdown at WalMart ( and come on who hasn't melted down in that hell hole?), I am feeling stable, and quite excited that I have only one more cut to go on this coming Sunday which will bring me down to 1.25 mg which I will dose with for two weeks, and then I'm done. Reading other people's stories I find that some folks do have symptoms of CNS damage long after they quit taking the medication. But, of course, I am not those "other people".. I am ME and I intend that any lingering symptoms will be mild and short lived!

I am already seeing great leaps in the memory department. Benzodiazapenes are notorious for screwing up the old memory bank, and I had gotten to the point that it was difficult to retain any type of information. Therefore I am elated that I remembered my newly assigned ATM pin without a hitch, and my daughter's address. This may seem small, but to me it is a big step forward in my recovery.

So how about a little graitude to get me started on my journey:

I appreciate this great opportunity for a bit of travel.

I celebrate my continued progress on the benoz withdrawl.

I am so happy that my great grandson is doing so well and will be home soon.

I appreciate the lovely weekend just past that I spent with Anah and her cousin Lainey. How delightful are these two little girls with their huge imaginations, their childish laughter, and their uncompromising unconditional love for their Mooma.

I am grateful for the chance to play snuggle bug with Anah and wake up with her beside me, all dewy eyed with sleep, but with a ready smile.

I live a wonderfully blessed life and I sure do appreciate that as well.

Namaste`