Jennifer Gardner Designs Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry

New jewelry just arrived @ Maddi's Gallery...

2010-11-22T14:55:00.001-05:00

Early today I stopped by Maddi's Gallery and dropped of a few new pieces of jewelry. The new pieces are available at their East Blvd location!

12 new pieces are now available!

While I was there I purchased 2 new Christmas ornaments! I love them! ...why but mass produced stuff when you can buy handmade!?! :)

New jewelry will be arriving @ artSHAK studio + gallery...

2010-11-10T09:45:00.006-05:00

I just shipped a package of new jewelry to artSHAK studio + gallery in Southport, NC!

21 new pieces will be available!

They will be holding their annual Holiday Meet the Artist/Open House Event November 14, 2010. If you are in the area, be sure to stop by! :)

XOXO - JEN

New jewelry...

2010-09-16T09:04:00.006-04:00

I have quite a few new pieces ready to list on Etsy and share! :) I love making jewelry, but have to admit I despise photographing it! I guess that's why I'm such a procrastinator when it comes to listing new pieces!

I have a few new wire-wrapped pieces, but mostly I have been experimenting with other techniques...forging, stone setting...

The thing I like best about making jewelry is that there is always something new to try. Although I would LOVE to go back to school and get a degree and learn the ropes in the classroom, for now, I'm left to my own devices. So, I just try to keep adding a new skill. I have to admit sometimes it can be challenging and frustrating, and it would definitely be easier if I had an instructor showing me the way, but teaching myself has it's advantages too...I guess! ;) LOL

Last week I worked on fine silver fusing. I know, you would thing as long as I've been making jewelry and using the torch, that I would've tried this ages ago, but I guess better late than never! :) Of course, you know me...I never start on a small scale...so, I've been making a chain. I have to say fusing is a lot more challenging than I thought it would be. I've soldered 26 and 28 gauge sterling with know problem, but boy, it's easy to totally melting the fine silver! :) Any tips any of you would like to share?

...but the chain is coming along nicely. I'm actually going to use it as a charm necklace and filling it with handmade charms! So, I can't say that I will work with fine silver that much on this large of scale in the future, but I will definitely use it for wire wrapping foundations...and at least I can say I know how to do it! :) LOL

New jewelry just arrived @ artSHAK studio + gallery...

2010-08-08T23:46:00.004-04:00

New jewelry arrived at artSHAK studio + gallery last week.

There are 21 new pieces available...3 necklaces, 17 pairs of earrings, and one new ring!

These new additions are a little more simply compared to most of my pieces...a little understated, yet they are all still crafted out of high quality gemstone beads and pearls.

So, if you are in the area, stop by and check it out! :)

artSHAK studio + gallery
822 N. Howe Street
Southport, NC

New jewelry...

2010-05-01T16:26:00.004-04:00

A few new pieces arrived @ artSHAK studio + gallery (in Southport, NC) yesterday...

More pieces will also be making their appearance Tuesday, @ Maddi's Gallery in Charlotte's South End/Dilworth area.

If you're in the area, stop by an check it out! :)

(A sneak peek will be available soon!)

Still making flowers...

2010-04-30T17:31:00.003-04:00

I'm still making flowers....LOL I finished this necklace the other day...

It's 30"...the chain is made of 7mm FWC pearls...it is an asymmetrical necklace, this handmade flower/leaf clasp sets on one side and a sterling ring is on the other side, that has been hammered to match the ring below the flower...

The necklace is meant to be worn a little crooked...

New...Spring inspired...

2010-04-10T18:04:00.004-04:00

I had a wonderful time playing around in my makeshift studio this week! I made quite a few pieces...

I've been really inspired lately...perhaps by all of the green and Spring flowers! :)

Not quite finished with all of the pieces, but here's a sneak peek!

I've never really had a "collection" of similar pieces...I have made some similar pieces, but not enough to be considered a collection! ...but I enjoyed making the sterling flowers so much, I think I may create a whole collection of flower jewelry! :) Now for a name for the collection! LOL ;)

XOXO - JEN

New jewelry will be arriving @ artSHAK studio + gallery...

2010-03-27T18:31:00.007-04:00

Just shipped 21 new pieces to artSHAK studio + gallery, in Southport, NC!

Today's horoscope...

2010-03-24T11:48:00.001-04:00

Today my horoscope said: "In the workplace, your ideas and actions alone seem to make a big difference to the general atmosphere."

I guess my imaginary co-workers do get a kick out of me talking to myself! :) LMAO

Valentine's Craft Attack....

2010-02-11T09:59:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday, my mom and I went to Amelie's Bakery in NODA, for the Valentine's Craft Attack. It was sponsored by the Hornet's Nest Crafters Team on Etsy.

We had a great day browsing through the wonderful art and it was fun to finally meet some of the other crafters I have been chatting online with! :)

Jennifer Gardner Designs...now back @ Maddi's Gallery...

2010-01-31T22:17:00.003-05:00

Jennifer Gardner Designs first appeared at Maddi's Gallery in 2007. After a long absence, my jewelry is now available again at their Southend/Dilworth location.

Maddi's Gallery

1530 East Boulevard Charlotte, North Carolina 28203

Phone: 704-332-0007

For more information, visit their website:

www.maddisgallery.com

Lots of new jewelry...

2010-01-21T19:17:00.004-05:00

I've been working on a lot of new pieces of jewelry...

I can't wait to share them!

I have felt really inspired lately...so far, I've stuck to my resolution of working on a piece of jewelry everyday! I have been a little slack taking pictures though! :) LOL Can't wait to share pictures of the butterfly necklace I'm working on! ;)

A little random, but the weather in Charlotte, NC is crazy. Yesterday and Tuesday, it was in the 70's and sunny, today it's in the 30's and raining. Only in Charlotte, right? LOL I did get a chance to enjoy our warm days at least! :)

My Year of Jewelry...day 8...

2010-01-21T19:13:00.002-05:00

Ice Queen - Earrings

This pair of handmade hoop earrings were crafted out of 14K gold-filled wire. They feature carved genuine crystal quartz beads, and are adorned with freshwater cultured pearls that dangle on vermeil headpins.

These earrings measure just under 1 3/4" in length (from the top of the hoop to the bottom of the center briolette) and are 1" in width at their widest point.

My Year of Jewelry...day 7...

2010-01-21T19:10:00.004-05:00

Ocean Potion - Earrings

This pair of handmade hoop earrings were crafted out of 14K gold-filled wire. They feature a variety of high quality faceted gemstone beads. The large center briolette is London blue topaz. They are also adorned with aquamarine, peridot, and London blue topaz and sky blue topaz rondelle beads.

These earrings measure 1 3/4" in length (from the top of the hoop to the bottom of the center briolette) and are just under 1 1/8" in width at their widest point.

A piece of jewelry a day keeps the doctor away...

2010-01-15T15:13:00.005-05:00

Ok...so I'm running a little behind posting pictures, but my New Year's resolution to make (or at least work on) a piece of jewelry a day is going well! It's definitely relaxing doing something you love! :) Although taking pictures still stress me out! LOL

Still have a few more pieces to take pictures of...

My Year of Jewelry...day 6...

2010-01-15T14:56:00.002-05:00

Having a Ball...

This pair of hoop earrings were handcrafted out of sterling silver wire and feature freshwater cultured pearls.

These earrings measure just under 1 3/8 inches from top to bottom and 1 3/8 inches in width at their widest point.

My Year of Jewelry...day 5...

2010-01-15T14:52:00.002-05:00

Strawberry Swing...

This pair of handmade hoop earrings were crafted out of sterling silver wire. They feature a variety of high quality faceted gemstone beads. They are adorned with prasiolite (green amethyst), pink tourmaline, and peach quartz.

These earrings measure 2" in length (from the top of the hoop to the bottom of the center briolette) and are just under 1 1/4" in width at their widest point.

My Year of Jewelry...day 4...

2010-01-15T14:47:00.004-05:00

Lemon Crush...

This pair of earrings were handmade using sterling silver wire and components. They are adorned with a yellow/pink/green combination of high quality genuine gemstone beads. These earrings feature luscious lemon quartz briolettes, and various shades of pink and green tourmaline beads. They have been oxidized/antiqued to compliment the detail of the wirework.

These earrings are just over 2 1/4" in length (not counting the earwire), and are approximately an inch in width, at their widest point.

My Year of Jewelry...day 3...

2010-01-15T14:42:00.004-05:00

Cranberry Crusades...

This pair of earrings were handmade using sterling silver wire and components. They are adorned with a combination of high quality genuine gemstone beads. These earrings feature garnet briolettes, and various shades of garnet and citrine rondelle beads, all of which are suspended using handmade headpins.

These earrings are 2" in length (not counting the earwire), and are approximately an inch in width, at their widest point.

2010 New Year's Resolutions...

2010-01-04T11:28:00.006-05:00

I'm still working on my list of New Year's resolutions for 2010!

I have decided on a few though! ;)

1. I want to make this my "Year of Jewelry!" I have set a goal to make 1 piece of jewelry everyday this year...or at least work on something everyday. Yes, things have started out good! :)

2. To dedicate more time to photographing my jewelry and archiving my creations...such as blogging and posting on Etsy! :)

3. To learn more about jewelry design and technique.

4. Not to be such a procrastinator.

5. To continue working towards a healthier life. I lost 42 pounds last year...hope to lose more than that this year. It's a start, right! :)

6. To continue exercising regularly. I started walking on the treadmill last February...I have been walking 5 times a week since then. I feel so much better and plan to continue doing this!

7. Not to be such a hermit! :) LOL Yeah, I've been quite the hermit the past few years. It's kind of funny if you think about it...the stark contrast to my past. When I was younger, I thought the world was ending if I didn't have standing plans for everyday of the week. Now, I enjoy losing myself in creating jewelry, and can't remember the last time I actually had real plans! ;)

I figure this is enough to get me started on a good year!

Wish me luck! ;)

XOXO, Jen

One-year @ the artSHAK!

2010-01-04T09:14:00.014-05:00

Today marks one year since Jennifer Gardner Designs first appeared at the artSHAK studio + gallery. Over the past year, around 150 unique pieces of handcrafted jewelry have been displayed for sale at the artSHAK. I am very grateful to the owners, Linda and Thom, for the wonderful opportunity to share my creations!

It has been a great year, and I am looking forward to many more to come!

artSHAK studio + gallery
822 North Howe Street
Southport, NC
(910) 457-1757

My Year of Jewelry...day 2...

2010-01-02T16:52:00.002-05:00

A-Tisket, A-Tasket...

Not sure why, but these remind me of this nursery rhyme...with a few adjustments of course! They make me think of a flowers in a basket. So, that's how I'm going to sing it! ;)

A-tisket, a-tasket,
Flowers in a basket...

These earrings are handcrafted out of sterling silver, and feature rhodolite garnet, peridot, freshwater cultured pearls, and vesuvianite.

My Year of Jewelry...day 1...

2010-01-01T16:34:00.001-05:00

I named these L'Heure Bleue...

L'Heure Bleue, is a French expression, also know as the "blue hour." It refers to the magical blue light that is cast over everything just before sunrise and just after sunset.

They are handcrafted sterling silver earrings...wire wrapped adorned with genuine sapphire, iolite, and mystic green quartz beads.

Farewell 2009...Hello infinte opportunity in 2010!

2009-12-31T14:50:00.008-05:00

It's been a great year, but as the midnight hour approaches my mind has inevitably wandered off in a million directions. It's impossible not to reminisce about everything that has happened in 2009, but mostly I am trying to imagine the possibilities and opportunities that 2010 will bring!

I'm hopeful. I am happy...and I feel blessed.

I believe positive thinking can take you a long way in life, and that it is possible for you to write your own story. Although I admit that I am not without the occasional doubt, for the most part I am an immensely optimistic person.

So, that being said, I'm ready to write my own story for 2010! I won't share all the details yet, but I'll keep you posted on how it plays out! :)

"Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man." - Benjamin Franklin

XOXO, Jen

2009-09-24T09:39:00.011-04:00

Sometimes I just can't believe how fast time flies by. I always have good intentions of blogging, but never seem to follow through. I think the biggest problem is that I have no concept of time! I often get tied up in a project and before I know it, hours have passed in what seemed like mere seconds. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or bad thing...but what I can tell you is that I love creating things. I love art...making jewelry...painting...ANYTHING creative.

Anyway, as summer comes to an end and fall begins, I am feeling more inspired than I have in months. I'm not sure why...maybe it's something in the air! :) The past two or three weeks I have been working on quite a few new pieces. I'm learning some new techniques and really enjoying experimenting with metal and soldering. One of the main things on my agenda in the coming days will be to restock my Etsy shop. It's been a little bare for a few months. I've had several people ask what happened to all the jewelry. This is kind of a 2 part answer! LOL ;) First, the jewelry in the shop was sent to artSHAK studio + gallery in Southport, NC. I think I mentioned in an earlier post that I am now selling my jewelry there...anyway, I'm very excited to share that it has been doing really well! Since January, I have been sending a new shipment every 3-4 weeks. I have sent close to 100 pieces since January! Back in April, we spent 5 days at Oak Island, and I stopped by to deliver quite a few pieces. I snapped a couple of shots of the gallery while I was there!

(My mom in the green and Linda, one of the owners.)

Okay, the second reason my Etsy shop is empty, is because I've been a little slack this summer! :) I have felt like a kid on summer vacation! ;) I spent most of the summer reading by the pool! I know, I'm terrible...but I read some great books! Anyway, as summer comes to an end, as will my slacking off...maybe! ;) You know, it was kind of a weird summer for me. I don't really know why...and I can't really explain it...hmmm. It was nice though. A little cooler than most summers here in the south. I went to Myrtle Beach in August. I haven't been there in years. Boy, it was hot the week we were there. It was the first time I had been there since they tore down the Pavilion. It's weird, and a little sad. Man, I could sure go for some ocean time now!!! ;)

I bought a new digital SLR camera a few months ago. It is really amazing...I've been playing around with it. This is the first camera I've ever had that isn't a point and shoot deal! When I purchased the camera, they gave me coupons for free classes. I can't wait to take some of them! I could definitely use the help! I did get a pretty cool shot if the moon a while back...

Speaking of classes...a few months ago I came across another artist's website...her name is Victoria Lansford...and I can not wait to take one of her classes. In the mean time, I'm going to order the DVD's! ;) I have to admit, I have been playing around with the torch and wire, with the russian filigree technique...but then again, I've always have been the type to have at it and ask questions later! ...but I'm still going to order the DVD's! ;) I wish there were some classes offered here, in Charlotte!!! :) Especially the locket class and the repoussé class. Here's a sneak peak of what I've been making...

I haven't decided what I want in the center of the flower yet...and haven't quite decided on the necklace either...heck, by the time I'm finished, it may not even have a pearl on it! I even stamped a "G" on the back of the flower for me! One day maybe I'll invest in a personalized stamp! :)

We need more classes in Charlotte, geared towards jewelry making and metalsmithing! Maybe I just haven't found them??? The truth is, I wish I could go back to school and get a degree in metalwork...I have tons of books, but there is only so much you can pick up through reading.

Anyway, enough rambling for now...

WOW...2009!

2009-03-12T16:26:00.006-04:00

WOW, New Year's has come and gone and now it's March. I can not believe how fast time is passing. What can I say....I don't really have an excuse for not writing sooner...I'm just a slacker! I have been off in my own little world of creating and playing around with metal, wire, and beads! :) LOL Sometimes it feels like the days blend together! I feel blessed to be able to spend my time creating something I love! However, I also feel a tinge of guilt for being so selfish with my time and being such a procrastinator when it comes to other things. Anyway!

Have I confessed my distaste for computers and technology lately? No??? Well, I hate computers...this one especially! It is a lemon! I've nothing but problems with it since I bought it. I tell it I'm going to throw it out the front door if it don't play nice, but then it just acts worse! :) LOL

I haven't been using the computer lately...it just results in more frustration than success! :) I guess I really should contact tech support, but the last few times I did that, I knew more about it than they did...which isn't saying much! It's about like the saying..."the blind, leading the blind." :) I guess it's time to do something though! I think I'm going to buy a Mac.

So, I bet you all thought I had dropped off the face of the earth? Now you know why I haven't been online! I am sooo sorry for being out of contact for so long. I just haven't been able to make myself use this computer!

So, last time I posted was October! Wow....a lot has happened since then...

My uncle passed away November 2, 2008. So, the holidays and past few months were a little difficult for my family, especially my aunt and cousins. We have had a lot of deaths in our family over the past few years...I family is getting smaller and smaller. I'm an only child, but my mom has 3 sisters...and I have cousins. We are all really close...I don't know what I would do without them!

We spent New Year's at the beach (Caswell Beach, NC). It was a gorgeous week! It was loud and chaotic...just as it always is! :) I met with Linda at the artSHAK Gallery while I was down there. She loved my jewelry, and asked if I would like to show some of it in the gallery. It's doing great...over half of the pieces I left have sold! I have my second order going to the gallery tomorrow. So, it was a great trip!!!! The artSHAK Gallery is located in Southport, NC, which is...by the way, my favorite place...where I hope to one day live!!! Have I mentioned I love Southport? :) LOL The gallery on Howe Street near Dosher Hospital. I love the gallery!!! So, you can imagine how excited I was for the opportunity!!!

March 1st, it snowed! It was the most snow we have had in years. We have had crazy weather...but I guess that's normal for the Carolinas! So, last Monday, the high was 35 and there was snow on the ground, and this past Monday, it was 83 and sunny. What is it the say about March??? In like a lion, out like a lamb!

Anyway, that's all for now! :) I have been working on a LOT of new pieces...can't wait for you to see them! :)

xoxo - Jen

October already???

2008-10-06T13:08:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I just can't believe how fast time flies by! I know this isn't the first time I've said this, but sometimes I'm just shocked at how fast time really goes by...I have intentions of doing certain things, like writing in this blog, and before I know it, months have pasted! It's almost like I don't have any concept of time...but then again, everyone does joke that I'm in my own little world!

It's so funny though...at times it's almost like time stands still...no, maybe it's just that I'm oblivious to it. I have been very blessed in the fact that I usually get to take as much time as I want off to make jewelry...but in doing so, it's as if demands and time schedules of normal life have been tossed aside. It's not that I don't still have responsibilities...it's just that I'm kinda on my own schedule. It's just so easy to lose track of time when you are doing something you love!

So, last entry was in July...gosh, I can't believe it has been that long.

So, I took a metalsmithing class with Joe, at Lapidary Arts, here in Charlotte. I REALLY enjoyed, and can't wait to go back. I also got to meet Ruby, she teaches several classes, including gem cutting, which I can't wait to take! Joe showed me a few of the basics...using the torch, the basics about soldering, and I learned how to size rings...also, about polishing and finishing a piece. Okay...so, I have to tell you, they made me sign a waiver...it said if I catch myself on fire, then they won't be held responsible! I wonder if someone actually caught their self on fire there? It's not funny, but at the same time, I have to wonder if that's what brought about the waiver! Anyway, I'm taking another class with Joe, Wednesday...I'm excited! I'll let you know how it goes. :)

In the mean time, I've been playing around with a few things...I been painting a little, I've made some jewelry...this and that, you know how it is! :) LOL Whatever crafty urge I have at the time! :) I road around a few days and went to some of the galleries in Noda, which is the historic art district in Charlotte. I also went downtown one day. Yeah...can't help but think of Tolkien's quote, "Not all who wander are lost." I seem to wander a lot...that might actually be an understatement! :) ...it's more like I'm always wandering! LOL By the way, I'm not a huge Lord of the Ring fan...more indifferent to it than anything...honestly, I've never even read the books or seen the movie, but who hasn't heard the quote! Maybe it just stuck with me so strongly because it just rings so true to who I am...or how I live...whether mentally or physically, I'm always wandering....oh yeah, I'm a rambler too! LOL :)

Speaking of wandering around...a week or so ago, we had a huge gas shortage here in the south. It was actually pretty crazy...and kinda scary. It really makes you think though! They reported on CNN, that people were even fighting at pumps, and in at least one occasion, a gun was drawn. Now, I didn't personally witness that, but lines were LONG, in some cases hours, and there were a couple of days when I think most stations, at least here in Charlotte, were sold out of gas completely. I went to the doctor one day, up near Lake Norman, and I passed 11 stations, on the way there, none of which had gas. Anyway, just something a little crazy, I thought I would share! :)

So, a few weeks ago, I was looking online at sterling charms, and I came across the cutest sterling/enamel charms...I just had to order some of them. I have a charm bracelet...actually two bracelets, a silver and a gold one, but the silver one, is by far my favorite. I have had both of them for many years, and have been collecting charms and receiving them as gifts for a long time...the last was a gift from my cousin April. She brought me back a sterling Eiffel Tower charm from her trip to Paris in March. Anyway, I ordered a few for me, and a few extra, and from this, my new Say it isn't so...Charm Collection, was born...

These are the first few pieces:

By the way, my best friend, April, has worked in the airline industry for years. I had to throw in a little airline humor just for her...only because she said I would make one...I think I'll give it to her for Christmas!! :) LOL

These necklaces are sterling silver, and they feature hand-stamped sterling discs, that are stamped with quotes and phrases. Each charm is matched with a sterling silver or sterling silver/enamel charm that compliments it's meaning. The hand-stamped charms are chemically oxidized/antiqued, to better show the letters, and then they are polished back to a bright shine.

These sterling silver necklace are available in a variety of lengths 14", 16", 18", and 20"...and this round is available on a 1.5mm ball chain or a 1mm snake chain (available in 16, 18, and 20 inches).

...still updating! LOL :)

2008-07-24T21:39:00.000-04:00

May 20, 2008 - Bust Magazine: For Women With Something To Get Off Their Chests

On May 20, the June/July 2008 issue of Bust Magazine hit the stands. Jennifer Gardner Designs was featured in a Co-op Ad along with other Etsy sellers. The "Serenity" necklace was featured in this advertisement, which can be found on page 31.

May 11, 2008 - Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion

On May 11, June/July 2008 issue of Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion hit the stands. Jennifer Gardner Designs was featured in a Co-op Ad along with other Etsy sellers. The "A Little Drop of Sunshine Will Make the Flower Grow" necklace was featured in this advertisement, which can be found on page 5.

Updating my website....

2008-07-24T15:08:00.000-04:00

Today I've been taking some much needed time to update my website (Jennifer Gardner Designs).....

I added several pieces, added the first few pieces to my new Wedding Jewels Collection, and updated the company news...

I'm still working on it, but this is a sneak peak! :)

On May 6, Volume 7 of Craft Magazine hit the stands. Jennifer Gardner Designs was featured in a Co-op Ad along with other Etsy sellers. The "Roses are Red" necklace was featured in this advertisement, which can be found on page 158.

Jennlyn54 (aka Jennifer Gardner Designs) was featured in Etsy's Gift Guide. My In a Roundabout Way Earrings were featured in the Wedding Category of the Gift Guide. The items in the Gift Guide are handpicked and "curated" by Etsy staff.

On June 1, the Summer 2008 issue of Venus Zine hit the stands. Jennifer Gardner Designs was featured in a Co-op Ad along with other Etsy sellers. The Serenity necklace was featured in this advertisement, which can be found on page 76.

....still Friday! :)

2008-05-16T18:28:00.000-04:00

Okay...so I had to write a little more...out and about town, I took a few more pictures.....

By the way, I took all of these with the camera on my cell phone, so they aren't the best quality! :)

I'm a strong believer in Karma...so normally, I wouldn't take a picture of someones car, or poke fun at anyone, but I couldn't resist this one...

Yes, someone was actually driving it...it was in the Wal-Mart parking lot in Gastonia. ...note the boat and fishing rods sticking out of the back....the boat has a huge sticker down the side of it that says "Gone Fishing."

About 2 weeks ago, we had to go downtown to the court house, to file the 90-day inventory papers for my grandma's estate. I took these while I was there...

This is the focal point of the atrium....it is a kinetic sculpture created by Ralph Helmick and Stuart Schechter, called Persistence of Vision. It is actually 3200 pewter heads, that are hanging on cables...the move to create different profiles that are supposed to reflect the "demographic of Mecklenburg County."

...and then the hand, called "Integrity," is one of my favorites! ...by Hoss Haley...it's about 8 feet tall! :) I just wanted to go over and sit in it! :) LOL

Anyway...that's all for today! :)

XOXO

Friday Evening Post...

2008-05-16T15:14:00.001-04:00

Wow...I can't believe a month has passed since I last posted. So, what have I been up to? Not much actually...I have been busy, but mostly with non-jewelry related stuff! :) The last 2 weeks, I have been playing handyman...or handywoman! This week has consisted of yard work(which may not seem like a lot, and I certainly don't mind doing it, but it takes 2 1/2 hours to cut JUST the front yard...on a riding lawnmower! I listen to audio books while I'm cutting grass! ...needless to say, I make it through quite a few books by the end of summer! LOL)....I also got to play locksmith, plumber, ...hmmm what else! LOL :) ....what is it they say??? ...jack of all trades, master of none! :) LOL I guess it is a good thing I was daddy's little girl and his shadow...I learned quite a lot about home maintenance and repair! LOL :) I know that isn't too glamorous, but at least I don't have to pay someone to fix the problems! ;)

I got the first picture from my aunt the other day....her and my cousin are in Europe...they have been there for a couple of weeks. They started in Paris...they have been to Monaco, Nice, Marseilles, Pisa, Florence (I think???)...today they are in Venice...Murano, actually. I think they have visited a few more places...like Cannes??? My aunt really wanted to go to Cinque Terra. I'm not sure if they did though. They are coming home Thursday. Their last stop is Rome. Then Friday, are all going to the beach! YAY!!! :) I think one of my uncles, Robert is staying here...he's out of town now. Anyway, this is the picture she sent me from Nice, France. This shot is off the balcony of their hotel room.

Anyway, I have made a few new pieces of jewelry. I actually listed a few pieces on Etsy today. I love making the jewelry, but I hate taking pictures of it!!! So, I have stuff laying around everywhere! :) Maybe it is because my pictures suck! ...but, I'm going to take more pictures of more pieces later. I guess :P ---LOL

These are two of the new pairs of earrings I finally took pictures of! :)

The Spring issue of Craft Magazine is out...I can't wait to see it... I bought a spot the the Etsy-Coop ad thing....I actually stumbled onto a link with ad...it wasn't supposed to me online, but it is! :) It is a 2-page spread in the magazine. I took a screen shot of it! That's mine...bottom row, 2nd from the left! :)

I had my first sale from the Stylebakery.com "Designers on the Rise" ad this week. Yay! :)

The Wire Artisans Guild had their grand opening for our Etsy shop in April. The pieces we made for the Earth Day Project..."Au Naturale," were the first pieces to be added to the shop. Two pieces have sold! :) I ended up changing the name of mine to "My Fair Lady." ;)

Oh yeah, I voted for the 1st time, May 2nd, in the Presidential Primary. I know, I'm terrible...31 and never voted. I was so excited, I even got a sticker! :) LMAO

Earth Day Challenge....

2008-04-17T14:54:00.000-04:00

The Wire Artisans Guild had a Earth Day theme challenge due Tuesday. The theme for this project was "Au Naturale." For my piece, I created a asymmetrical necklace. I decided to name it "Au Naturale." .............really creative, right? LOL :) It is made of sterling wire and chain, and has flowers made of moonstone briolettes. The centers of the flowers and "sprigs" are made of freshwater cultured pearls.

These pieces (our Earth Day pieces) will be the first ones to be added to our team store on Etsy. Our team store WireArtisansGuild, is officially opening on April 22, 2008!

I can't wait to see the other members designs for the project!

Right-Brained???

2008-04-17T12:59:00.000-04:00

Earlier, I came across this link on another blog, And Sew it Goes, one that belongs to Terry Grant, a very talented fabric/quilt artist in Oregon. The other day, I saw the cutest stuffed bird in a magazine, and then yesterday, I saw one on Etsy. So, I decided I wanted to make one! (Yet another project added to the long list...you should see all of the things I have started...and never finished! Yeah, I'm a procrasinator!!! I admit it! I have good intentions though! :) LOL) It's not that I mind buying other artists' work, its just that I really enjoy making things! I actually have tons of handmade stuff in my house...made by other artist!

Anway, I had googled "stuffed bird patterns," and Terry's blog came up! Aside from her gorgeous quilts, she makes the cutest little birds!!! It seems I'm not the only one in search of a pattern! :) I never did find a pattern, I guess I'll have to make my own!

Anyway, the link I came across, was for a creativity test...it is available on The Art Institute of Vancouver's website....

I thought is was pretty interesting! :) LOL
I copied my results............. (the rest of this post is copied from my results...)

The results show your brain dominance as being:

Left Brain Right Brain
31% 69%

You are more right-brained than left-brained.
The right side of your brain controls the left side of your body. In addition to being known as right-brained, you are also known as a creative thinker who uses feeling and intuition to gather information. You retain this information through the use of images and patterns. You are able to visualize the "whole" picture first, and then work backwards to put the pieces together to create the "whole" picture. Your thought process can appear quite illogical and meandering. The problem-solving techniques that you use involve free association, which is often very innovative and creative. The routes taken to arrive at your conclusions are completely opposite to what a left-brained person would be accustomed. You probably find it easy to express yourself using art, dance, or music. Some occupations usually held by a right-brained person are forest ranger, athlete, beautician, actor/actress, craftsman, and artist.

Your left brain/right brain percentage was calculated by combining the individual scores of each half's sub-categories. They are as follows:

Your Left Brain Percentages

25% Logical (Your most dominant characteristic)
22% Linear

20% Verbal

20% Reality-based

13% Symbolic

0% Sequential (Your least dominant characteristic)

Your Right Brain Percentages

64% Concrete (Your most dominant characteristic)
50% Random
44% Fantasy-oriented
34% Intuitive
30% Holistic
7% Nonverbal (Your least dominant characteristic)

What Do These Percentages Mean?

Low percentages are common in the Brain Type Test and are not indicative of intelligence. Instead, medium to high scores (30 - 50%) are desireable, as they show an ability to utilize a processing method without an abnormal reliance on it. Special focus should be paid to highly dominant (50% or above) or highly recessive (0 - 30%) methods, as they tend to limit your approach when learning, memorizing, or solving problems.

If you have Highly Dominant characteristics, your normal thinking patterns will naturally utilize these methods. Conscious effort is required to recognize the benefits of other techniques. Using multiple forms of information processing is the best way to fully understand complex issues and become a balanced thinker.
If you have Highly Recessive characteristics, your normal thinking patterns naturally ignore these methods. You may only consider these under-utilized techniques when "all else fails," or possibly not at all. It is important to recognize the benefits of all of your brain's capabilities in order to become a balanced thinker.

Left Brain Categories

Logical Processing -----------Logical processing is a method that is used by the left hemisphere to take information piece by piece and put it all together to form a logical answer. When information is received through reading or listening, the left hemisphere will look for different bits of information that will allow it to produce a logical conclusion. This aspect of the left hemisphere is what aids you in solving math problems and science experiments.

Your Logical Analysis -----------When processing information using this method, you may consider the information before you and produce a logical answer, or you may tend to go with your gut. You may discover that you can "guess" your way through S.A.T. questions about as accurately as you can deduce them. It is important that you nurture your ability to use logic whenever it is needed, but do not neglect other methods of processing information if you hit a logical roadblock. Linear Processing
Linear processing is a method by the left hemisphere to process information. In this process, the left brain takes pieces of information, lines them up, and proceeds to arrange them into an order from which it may draw a conclusion. The information is processed from parts to a whole in a straight, forward, and logical progression.

Your Linear Analysis ----------You tend to have difficulty in processing data in a linear manner. When processing information you tend see the whole picture first and work your way backwards, filling in the pieces as you go. The information you process is not done in a straight, progressive manner, but may take different paths as you start with an assumption and take different paths to discover the threads that lead you to that assumption. Seeing the big picture at the beginning of the process is a necessity for you if you are to understand additional information. When given a task, instead of naturally following directions in a linear fashion, you tend to feel the need to know "why" you are doing something or else you may have difficulty with it.

Verbal Processing ----------Verbal processing is a method used by the left hemisphere to process our thoughts and ideas with words. For example, through verbal processing, a left-brained person giving directions may say, "From this point continue east for two miles and turn north onto Bellevue Road. Continue north on Bellevue Road for seven miles and turn west on Main Street". With verbal processing, exact, logical directions are given in a very sequential manner compared to a right-brained person who, in giving the same directions, would use more visual landmarks.

Your Verbal Analysis ----------You are not a verbal person. When you process your thoughts, you tend to use very few words, preferring instead to illustrate a problem or solution. You often find yourself in situations where it is hard for you to "find the right words." Upon reading or hearing new information, you must first create a "mental video" before you can process and understand the information of your thoughts. For example, when giving directions, you probably use many gestures with your hands such as pointing and leaning, and also refer to visual structures such as "a McDonalds" or "the big tree" instead of street names or exact mileage.Reality-based Processing
Reality-based processing is used by the left hemisphere as a method for processing information with a basis on reality. This processing tool focuses on rules and regulations. An example of this would be how a left-brained person would completely understand the repercussions of turning in a late assignment or failing a test. A left-brained person also usually easily adjusts to changes in their environment.

Your Reality-based Analysis ------The information you process may lack a basis on reality, but it does open the door to creativity. You do not show much focus for rules and regulations and do not adjust well to change in the environment. In fact, upon experiencing change in the environment, it spurs you to try to change it yourself instead of adjusting to it. Whenever you become emotionally involved in project you are more likely to learn and succeed.

Symbolic Processing --------Symbolic processing is a method associated with the left hemisphere that is used for processing the information of pictures and symbols. The majority of functions associated with academics involve symbols such as letters, words, and mathematical notations. This process is what aids you to excel in tasks such as linguistics, mathematics, and memorizing vocabulary words and mathematical formulas.

Your Symbolic Analysis ---------You have difficulty processing the information of symbols, and would rather see the real object in order to understand. You probably hated algebra. For example, if solving a math problem, you need to "draw out" the problem to understand and solve it. You rely on the visualization of real objects instead of their symbols. Tasks such as memorizing vocabulary words or mathematical formulas are more difficult for you.

Sequential Processing --------Sequential processing is a method used by the left hemisphere for processing information. The information that is received is processed in order from first to last. Information is processed in a systematic, logical manner. Through sequential processing, you can interpret and produce symbolic information such as language, mathematics, abstraction, and reasoning. This process is used to store memory in a language format. Activities that require sequential processing include spelling, making a "to-do" list, and many aspects of organization.

Your Sequential Analysis ------------You tend process information you receive without any priority as to which is processed first, last, or any place in between. It is difficult for you to learn or perform tasks involving sequence. For example, spelling is a task that involves sequence and you may experience problems remembering exact spelling or any type of rote memorization, for that matter. Creating daily lists and plans are probably not activities you enjoy. If you are having problems with tasks involving sequence, there are methods you can use to improve your skills. One method involves using colors to learn sequence. You assign a color to each task. For example, you may want to make the first step green, the second step blue, and the last step red. This helps because the right side of the brain, your dominant side in this case, is sensitive to colors. The important thing to remember is that consistently using the same sequence will help you both improve and recognize that this strategy can be used in many different circumstances involving sequence.

Right Brain Categories

Concrete Processing -----------Concrete processing is a method associated with the right hemisphere that is used for processing things that can be seen or touched. It processes much of the information you receive from real objects. For example, a right-brained person is not just satisfied that a mathematical formula may work, but will want to know why it works. A strongly concrete person often finds it easier to solve a mathematical problem by "drawing it out" because it allows them to visualize it. The more a concrete person can visualize something the easier it is for them to understand it.

Your Concrete Processing -------------You are strong in concrete processing. When you process information about things that can be seen or touched you show great comfort. But when contemplating something without concrete form, you may have difficulty, and attempt to understand what is trying to be processed in visual terms. For example, if solving a math problem, it would help you to "draw out" the problem and visualize it. Only after visualization, would you feel comfortable solving it.

Random Processing ----------Random processing is a method used by the right hemisphere for processing information. The information that is received is processed without priority. A right-brained person will usually jump from one task to another due to the random processing by their dominant right hemisphere. Random processing is, of course, the opposite of sequential processing therefore making it difficult for right-brained individuals to choose to learn in sequence. In order to overcome this, a right-brained person may want to attempt to learn sequence by using colors since the right hemisphere is sensitive to color. For example, you may want to associate the first step with green, the second step with blue, and the last step with red. Consistently using the same sequence will allow you to see that this strategy can be applied to many tasks involving sequence.

Your Random Analysis --------You have some ability to process data randomly. You are at times able to make "leaps of logic" and discover unique things by thinking "outside of the box." However, you may tend to ignore your random processing thoughts unless you are desperate for a solution. It is important you recognize this skill as not grasping at straws, but a viable way to discover new ways of approaching a problem.

Fantasy-oriented Processing --------------Fantasy-oriented processing is used by the right hemisphere as a method for processing information with creativity. It focuses much less on rules and regulations than the processing method of a left-brained person. Due to the fantasy-oriented processing mechanism of a right-brained person, they do not adjust well to change. Instead of adapting to the change in the environment, a right-brained person attempts to change it back to the way they liked it. But fantasy-oriented processing also provides the advantage of creativity to right-brained individuals, and since emotion is integral of the right side of the brain, anything a fantasy-oriented person becomes involved in emotionally will aid their ability to learn.

Your Fantasy-oriented Analysis ------------You have the ability to use both creativity and reality to process the information you receive. This is a unique gift that allows you to both focus on rules and regulations but to also act with creativity. You are able to adjusting to change, even though you might not like it, and you can become emotionally involved in your work if it interests you.

Intuitive Processing -------------Intuitive processing is a method that is used by the right hemisphere to process information based on if it "feels" right or not. For example, a right-brained person may choose an answer on a test because they had a "gut" feeling and often they will be correct. Another example of this is how a right-brained person will know the correct answer to a math problem but will not understand the procedure of how they arrived at the correct answer. A right-brained person will usually have to start with the answer and work their way backwards in order to be able to see and understand the parts and process that create the whole.

Your Intuitive Analysis -----------When processing information, at times you are able to go with your "gut" instincts. At other times you may doubt your instincts, or prefer to put information together piece by piece to form your conclusion. You should be careful not to ignore your intuition, but at the same time do not solely rely on it.

Holistic Processing ----------------Holistic processing is a method used by the right hemisphere to process information. The information is processed from whole to parts. A right-brained person, through holistic processing, is able to see the big picture first, but not the details that accompany it. A strongly holistic person may often find that prior to listening to a lecture given by an instructor, they must first read the chapter so that they better understand what the lecture is about. This function is also what provides to you your visual spatial skills. It also aids in tasks such as dancing and gymnastics. Through holistic processing, memory is stored in auditory, visual, and spatial modalities.

Your Holistic Analysis ---------------You show some ability to process data holistically, starting with the whole and working backwards to find the parts, which inform the whole, to form your conclusion. When you process information in a linear manner you are able to start with the parts and work up to form the whole. It is important to be comfortable with both methods, as both are equally necessary in the learning process.

Nonverbal Processing ----------Nonverbal processing is a method used by the right hemisphere to process our thoughts with illustrations. Reliance on this method is why it is occasionally difficult for right-brained people to "find the right words" in certain situations. A right-brained person cannot just read or hear information and process it, but first must make a mental video to better understand the information they have received. For example, through nonverbal processing, a person giving directions may say, "Continue going straight until you see a big, red-brick courthouse. At the courthouse turn right, and go down that street for a couple of miles until you se a gray stone church which will be on your right. Straight across from the church is the road to the left you need to take." With nonverbal processing, the directions that are given are extremely visual compared to the exact, sequential directions that would be given by a left-brained person.

Your Nonverbal Analysis ------------You have little ability in nonverbal processing. When you process your thoughts and ideas you mainly use words instead of illustrations. For example, if you were giving directions you may say, "Continue traveling west for 3 miles and turn north at the intersection." You would give exact, logical directions in a very sequential manner.

Beautiful earrings....

2008-04-07T19:00:00.000-04:00

Oh yeah, I bought a pair of lovely earrings yesterday from MSBELLE on Etsy. Ginger, aka msbelle, is one of my friends from here (Charlotte, NC), that makes the most beautiful jewelry! I have been admiring them for a while! :) I can't believe that they hadn't sold sooner!

I bought them for my mom for Mother's Day! I know she is going to love them! :)

Here's a picture of them....from her Etsy Shop!

.....ta-dah!!! :)

Okay...I'm going now! LOL :)

XOXO

New pieces...

2008-04-07T18:23:00.000-04:00

Monday already??? Boy, this weekend wasn't long enough! :) LOL

I had a good weekend...not very eventful, but good! :) Saturday, I finished up my piece for the Wire Artisans Guild weekly theme challenge. This weeks theme was "whirligig," a theme picked by Shirley of hergypsysoul on Etsy.

For my piece, I actually made a demi parure or set...necklace and earrings. When I thought about whirligigs, beautiful spinning sculptures came to mind......which, of course, was followed by the question "how did they make that???" From that, my mind shifted gears (LOL) to the working parts and gears used to create such a piece. So, this is my interpretation of the gears....working parts moving together in unison for one grand purpose! :)

I also made posted 2 other pieces today on Etsy. Both are earrings...

Loopity-Loop Earrings ------ They are sterling and apatitie.

....and Pretty in Pink - Earrings ------ These earrings are made with sterling and feature genuine mystic pink topaz briolettes, multi-colored tourmaline rondelles, and TINY pink topaz rondelles.

That's all for now! :)

xoxo

Sunday Evening Post.... :) LOL

2008-03-30T22:35:00.000-04:00

A lot has happen in the past week....some good, some bad.

I guess, bad news first....right??? Boy, Easter weekend and the first of the week just sucked!

First, my grandmother's sister, Dot, passed away last Sunday...March 23...Easter Sunday. She found out about 2-3 weeks ago, that she had cancer...I will miss her. :(

I can not believe how many friends and family members have passed away recently. It seems someone has passed away every other week since December. My great-grandmother's last living sibling, Edna, passed away March 10th.

My aunt, Liz, was in the hospital Friday-Tuesday...she had a terrible infection from kidney stones. Then, if that wasn't bad enough, Monday, my cousin Jessica, Liz's daughter, was in a wreck and totalled her car.

That is the worst parts...I'll spare you the rest. :(

Now for the good parts.....

The other day I was invited to join the Wire Artisans Guild. The members are very talented and their jewelry is just gorgeous! So, I was very honored that Sheela...also known as Eclettica on Etsy, asked me to join!

One thing that I think is really neat, is that they have weekly theme challenges. This weeks theme was selected by Susanna (aka suesun on Etsy). She selected "butterfly" for the weekly theme!

So, here it is...my butterfly for the weekly challenge..........

Charlotte (aka EmeraldDolphinDesign on Etsy), another member of the Wire Artisans Guild, included me in a Treasury on Etsy! ...Thank you Charlotte! Look at all of the pretty butterfly themed pieces!!! :)

I also posted another pair of earrings tonight....I named them Tranquility. I actually finished them a while back, but just getting around to taking pictures and posting them...I still have quite a few other pieces to take pictures of and post, too!

Well, that's all for tonight!

XOXO

Etsy Treasury

2008-03-19T23:56:00.000-04:00

Today on Etsy, I was included in a Treasury list created by Shayna Maidel, who offers a wonderful selection of vegan bath and body products! The Treasury, "Ooh La La! So Feminine!", included my Victorian Evening earrings! This is the first time I have ever seen one of my pieces in a Treasury. I was so excited when I saw it! I don't usually look at the Treasury's, rarely, but something just told me to look! :) Thank you for including me shaynamaidel!

March???

2008-03-16T18:43:00.001-04:00

Gosh, I can't believe it is already March. Tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day!

So, It has been a while since I posted...I guess you have guessed, I'm still busy as a bee! LOL :)

I have made a few new pieces...

The first I named Sweet Secrets-

Its a 26" necklace...and features a handmade key....I've been a little stuck on keys! ...and pearls! I've always loved keys. I have made a few other pieces with keys, but I think this and the next pieces are my favorite pieces of "key" jewelry.

Did I mention I love keys! :) LOL Even as a kid, I remember making necklaces with old skeleton keys. My house (the house my great-grandfather built in 1932) has all of the original crystal door knobs in it...all of the doors in the house lock with skeleton keys! How cool is that! ;) That is one of the many reasons I love my house!! LOL :)

This piece I name "You Hold the Key." This picture is going to be used in the next issue of Stylebakery's "Designers on the Rise." When I first started selling pieces I "staged" the pictures... as time passed, I started taking them all with white backgrounds...but I am quite happy with the way this one turned out. I know...I have a minor in marketing...I should know better, afterall perception is everything, and presentation influences perception. I should be more particular about the pictures. Shame on me! Perhaps I'll start taking them like this again??? We'll see! It's a little more work, but the end result is so much better! I'm still not the best at taking pictures of my jewelry...but I think it is improving some??? Maybe? LOL :) I am going to take a class in photography one of these days! :)

I named these earrings "Restless Tides." (I know, the picture sucks! LOL) The colors of the stone beads in this pair of earrings just remind me of the ocean, and all of the twists and loops in the wire, reminde me of the churning sea! I just loved these faceted coin-shaped london blue topaz beads...I have them for a while, so I finally decided to use them!

I mentioned earlier, I am going to have an ad in the next issue of Stylebakery's "Designers on the Rise." I'm excited about it! Now, I have to update my website. I wish I could build it like I really want...I just used a ready-made template...I manage using the computer, but trust me, I only know enough about it to get by. Thank goodness my uncle is an IT guy!!! Without him I would be in a mess!! LOL :) I manage to screw something up on a regular basis! LOL

I also managed to snag two spots in Etsy's Cooperative Advertising program! One spot will be in the May issue of Craft Magazine, and the other is in the June/July issue of Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion.

I went to 2 bead shows last week! I am so bad! One was a wholesale show/trunk show at a local bead shop, and the other was one of the traveling shows. I spent WAY too much money! ...but I just couldn't resist! I love pearls and gemstone beads! I tried to behave myself...my biggest splurges this time were the 2 strands of blue topaz beads. One is sky blue and is london blue. Both are fairly large!

This picture does not do these justice! They are AAA grade. Keep in mind I have large hands and fingers...I wear like a 10-11 on my ring finger...these are graduated in size, but the 8-10 or so in the middle of the strand are quite large...at least 20-30 carats each! Yes, they were pricey!!!!

I also got a few paired sets and odds and ends! The last picture is 2 matte finished black onyx. They have tiny stars all over them that have been left shiney. They are about 12.05 carats a piece. They were just so cute, I couldn't resist!

Oh yeah, I got a strand of 7 huge amethyst flat faceted-teardrop shaped briolettes. They are about 30-50 carats each! YaY! :)

Okay, I have to run! Hope you have a great night! :)

XOXO

A Bird? A Plane? No...

2007-12-10T22:06:00.000-05:00

Still busy as a bee!!! LOL :)

So, something neat happened to me tonight. I was outside swimming earlier...shortly after dark, and I saw something really neat in the sky...I just figured out what it was! It was a fuel-dump from a rocket (Atlas 5) that was launching a satelite into orbit! It looked like a comet! (check out images from others at http://www.spaceweather.com/ )

How cool is that!
In other news...LOL...we hit 80F today! Hot for December! :) LOL

By the way, I'm not crazy...our pool is heated! :) I've been swimming to Christmas music! I bet the new neighbors love the music! LOL Oh well! :)

December Near??? Wow...it's here!

2007-11-29T16:25:00.000-05:00

Wow...I can't believe it is the end of November!!! This year has flown by!

Not much new around here...just been a busy bee! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, although it was a little sad without grandma, and all of the the other loved ones we have lost over the last few years. We had Thanksgiving at grandma's house. Everyone decided we would have Thanksgiving and Christmas there before they sell the house. Boy that is going to be a sad day!!!
So, Thanksgiving, I took my Wii over there. I got that game Guitar Hero III the other day. It is really fun, and everyone enjoyed it! I've never been much for video games, in fact, I think the last game system I had was a Super Nintendo... :) ...but I love Wii! I don't have much time to play it, but it's fun when everybody gets together! I shot some video Thanksgiving of my mom and cousins playing Guitar Hero 3...it's pretty funny, my mom is funny...or maybe I'm just easily entertained! LOL Anyway, I have to upload the video sometime! :) It turned out a little dark. I'm still trying to get used to my new camera! The macro setting works much better than my old one, but I still have a time taking pictures! I need to take a photography class! I know the guy at Best Buy that helped me pick out a camera thought I was an idiot! :) I am so computer and technology illiterate!!! I wonder some days how I manage! :) The really funny thing is that people call me all the time for computer help! The truth is I'm just as lost as them! :)

I've got my house about ready for Janice to move in. I've been renting my house for about 2 years...I guess most of you that know me, already know that! (I moved back in with my mom, when my dad passed away.) The last guy that rented it TRASHED it. So much for 9 months of remodelling! The worst part is that I knew him, and thought a lot of him! Oh well, I guess people sometime fool you! His kids painted and drew on I think every wall in the house! ...and the bedroom floor. Not to mention it looked like he hadn't cleaned anything the whole time he lived there. ...and that is only the half of it! Words can not described how I felt when I walked in the house after he moved out. He ruined my furniture, broke and threw away my new $500 washing machine, broke 2 windows...plus destroyed the house. Oh yeah, and spilled fingernail polish remover on the hardwood floors I had refinished...yeah, I refinished them!!! ...and it was a job, let me tell you! My dad borrowed a big industrial belt sander from a friend, showed me how to use it and let me have at it! I will never do that again!!! They turned out good, but boy was that a job!!! A piece of advice to anyone wanting to refinish there's...it's worth every penny to hire someone! Don't do it yourself! Chris, my cousin that passed away last October, helped with one room and my dad helped some...but I did a good portion of it myself! Oh, and even funnier, I pulled up the carpet, tack strips and 1 billion staples! Chris helped with that too! Him and my dad taught me so much! I'm better good with power tools! LOL Watch out! :) I had lots of help with the house...my other cousin, Josh is an electrician, a friend of a friend, David, did all of the plumbing...and as my dad said, "he let my mom paint in the closet!" LOL :) ....where know one would see! :) I must confess, I love my bathroom! It is huge! I think that it, the front porch, and the french doors are my favorite parts of the house....and that my great-grandparents built it...oh yeah, and my cherry red kitchen cabinets! I looked through what seemed like millions of books and magazines to see what red cabinets would look like, and found nothing, but I went ahead and painted them. Now, wouldn't you know they are in every magazine! Same thing with couches, when I bought my first house...I must have went to 50 stores, and no red sofas...I couldn't even find a store that had red fabric to have a custom one made (except Purple Picket...and it was way out of my price range! I love Urbana Furniture!!! Now, there are red couches everywhere! I settled on a custom black chenille-like set from La-Z-Boy.) I may regret it in the future...but I love the red now!

Although I'm still mad thinking about the house, the other day this thought kinda popped into my head...I guess this is a little payback, for painting our basement walls when I was little. I now know how my daddy felt when he walked in there! :) ...but you know, it's still not right for a grown adult to treat someone elses property that way. It's a shame that some people are so thoughtless and disrespectful. I mean he is a single father, and I went above and beyond, even let him use my stuff because he was in a predicament and didn't have furniture or anything. I know I'm naive, but I just always try to see the best in people...it seems like they just always try to take advantage of me. Boy I got taken this time. I had a signed lease and deposit and I guess I could go to small claims court, but I think it would be more trouble than it was worth. So, I'm going chalk this up to a lesson learned, and move on.

In other news... :) I listed a few new pieces of jewelry on Etsy and my website.

I named this piece "Paint the Town Red." You know, red is my favorite color, I absolutely loved these garnet beads...they are just gorgeous. The color is so vibrant.

I think this is one of my favorite pieces....I named this bracelet "Enchanted Evening." This piece took quite a while to make. It has over 30 feet of sterling silver wire in it.

The other month, there was a "how-to" section in one of the jewelry magazines I get that showed how to make post earrings. I have made a few pairs, but this is the first pair I posted to sell. They are rhodolite garnet...peridot, chrome diopside, carnelian, and citrine. Some one asked the other day, where I learned how to do wire work like this...I believe it is just like anything, a little trial and error, tips picked up from other sources like books, magazines, the Internet, and other artist, and the combination of many techniques we learn along the way. I buy a lot of magazines! ...and read a lot of books! LOL :)

This too was inspired by a "how-to" in a magazine. I believe this one is put out by Lapidary Journal...I'm terrible with names! The say that is a left-handed thing!!! At least I blame it on that! LOL :) Okay...so, here something weird about me! I was born with 2 thumbs on my right hand...I had one removed when I was about 2 years old...but the thumb I was left with doesn't have a joint, so it doesn't bend. It always embarrassed me as a kid...to have a crooked thumb. They said when I was older and had finished growing, I could have surgery and have it fixed, but by then, it didn't bother me. Anyway, they say it is hereditary, although no one in my family has ever had this. (They also say throughout history it was associated with, and a sign of royalty! LOL Well, I am Princess Jennifer! :) LOL ) Anyway, my parents said when I was really little I always tried to use my right hand first, but since I had problems with the thumb, I would get frustrated and try my left hand. Perhaps this is why I'm left-handed. I still use my right hand for everything except writing.

Anyway, back to the bracelet...I think the magazine was Jewelry Artist, or Art Jewelry(???)...another Etsy artist wrote the "how-to," her name is Amy. She had directions on how to make a link bracelet with forged heavy gauge wire and hand-fired head pins, like I used in some of my pieces several months back...which I learned from another magazine! LOL See what I mean about combining all of the techniques you learn! :) So, anyway, I totally screwed up the bracelet and as I finished it, I broke one of the links...in the process, I noticed that one of the ends that I had gotten hot was more pliable than the link I broke...because the more you work with metal, the harder it becomes. Later I was reading the magazine again, and there was a section on annealing. AH HA! I thought...and it clicked...so I annealed the piece and put a few folds in it. Then, I thought wouldn't it just be cute stamped...so I stamped it! Then antiqued it, and presto change-o! Another happy mistake! I really like this bracelet...there is something about the rough image of forged metal with the femininity of pearls...hmmm! Oh well! LOL

I haven't listed this piece yet... A funny thing happened...a friend, Jennifer asked me to make her a snowflake necklace...This is one I was working on at the time! Could it be that great minds think alike? LOL :) What a coincidence though! ...that I was already working on one. I have a couple others with snowflakes too. Maybe it just being in the Christmas mood that makes me think of snow. Funny, I've never had a white Christmas! I'm staying hopeful though, maybe this will be the year! :) LOL

I haven't made that much lately...it seems like there just haven't been enough hours in the day. I've had these pieces for a while. I am the slackest person when it comes to uploading pictures and listing pieces online! I have tons of pieces I've never listed! I just enjoy making them soooo much more than taking pictures and writing descriptions!

Oh well, I guess that's it for my rambling for the night! I'm going to go for now!

XOXO

Catching up...

2007-10-23T23:44:00.000-04:00

So, I guess it has been a while since I last wrote. A lot has happened...I guess the biggest thing is that my grandmother passed away. As I see here, I am not only thinking of her, but of all the other family members (and friends) who have passed away over the last few years. Mostly, at this moment...of my daddy, because Oct. 24th, is, or should I say was, his birthday. He would be 59 this year...this is the 4th birthday that has passed, since he died. It is hard to believe 3 year, 2 months, and 2 days has passed since we lost him. I bought one of the little tiny pumpkins for him, I'm going to go to the graveyard and put one on the grave. I also bought one for my grandparents.

My grandmother passed away September 17th. She had been sick since March. Although I miss her dearly, it was almost a relief, at least she is not suffering anymore...and I know she is in a better place. We were all there with her when she passed, she was at home, in her bed. The last night was really rough. She struggle until about 3 or 4am...we had brought hospice in about a month before, and they had brought us a "palliative care kit" with all of the medicines we would need. The nurses didn't stay, but were on call. About 3am, we had to get one of them to come to the house. She was struggle to breathe and having chest pains...she finally went to sleep about 4 am. After that, she didn't move or wake up again. At the end, it was really peaceful. She was breathing normal and the breaths just started coming futher and futher apart, until she passed. It was very peaceful. It just looked like she was sleeping. The Hospice nurse was supposed to come and check on her again that morning, but she was running late...so, she ended up showing up about 30 minutes before she passed. Which was a blessing. I was really comforting her being there.

...and then there's Chris, my cousin...October 29th, will be the one-year anniversary of his death. I can't believe a year has passed. He would be 31 this year...he's about 6 months older than me. :(

Anyway, enough about the sad-side of life! So, I just got back from the beach yesterday. We had a good time. This was actually my second trip down there since grandma passed. We went to Oak Island....as usually! Where else would we go! Me, mom, Charlotte, April, Ginger, Liz, and April H...went. It was sad with grandma not there, but we had a good time. I guess we all have our moments... We stayed at "A Coconut Hut." It is one of my favorites! ...and it definitely has the one of the best views on the beach! (It's at Caswell.) Ocean on the frontside, marsh and ICW on the backside...you can see Southport in the distance, and Bald Head Island.

See what I mean!!! Beautiful views!!! theThis was our second stay at this particular house. (These pictures are from the last time we stayed there...I haven't upload the pictures from this trip yet.) It's up for sale...$1.8 million!!! WOW! Right? LOL Thank goodness for people like the Durhams...that let us rent their cottages! I stayed at "On Holiday," last trip. It is really cute too! Especially for a smaller 2 bedroom cottage! It's near Middleton...I actually went down there last time by myself. April and her family were down there...but I stayed by myself.

Anyway, I have a lot more to catch you up on...but for now, I think I'm going to head to bed. I'll be back...

Monday Again??? :) LOL

2007-08-14T00:08:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it is Monday again! Well, actually Tuesday now! :) I can't believe how fast the last week passed!

I listed some new pieces today...on Etsy and my website. I have been working on quite a few pieces...and still have a bunch I haven't listed!

I have to say, I think this one is one of my all-time favorites! (LOL - I know, I always say that!)It didn't turn out at all like what I had planned for it to be, but I think it turned out to be one of those happy mishaps! :) LOL So, it started out as a pair of earrings...then a flower...then a necklace, and then somehow, to me it looked like an angel. So, I named it "Oh Angel of Mine!" I finally used one of the pink topaz briolettes I bought...I really love them! They are just so sparkly and pretty! I went a little bit crazy in the briolette department...I ordered a little of everything! I just couldn't resist! LOL

It's sooo funny, actually a lot of my pieces turn out they way...happy mishaps! I mean, I start with plans for one thing and something else takes form! I draw out a lot of my designs prior to starting. Some come out exactly as plan and the others I may work on for days and may end up as something total different! It is always a wonderful surprise when it works out...but that isn't always the case! I think the hardest thing I have overcome...or am still trying to overcome, is the fact that I'm a perfectionist, and I'm my worst critic! Now don't get me wrong...I know it is good to take pride in your work and always do your best, but sometimes I am just obsessive about it! I've been working at trying not to be so obsessive...I think it is just in my genes! My whole family is obsessive compulsive! :) LOL I know that isn't funny...but if you could see us, you would laugh too! Anyway, I'm trying to accept the fact that I'm my worst critic! After all, I shouldn't expect everyone to like every piece or think I make! Art is subject...I make the jewelry, because I enjoy doing so...I hope people will like my "creations," but if they don't, I'm not going to give up. Also, I'm trying to accept the fact that just because something don't turn out exactly as I plan, doesn't mean it has to be thrown out...everyone else doesn't know that it isn't what I had in mind! I've always acted obsessive...school work, painting, making jewelry, pottery, actually in all aspects of my life! ...but I guess it is just most noticeable in my art. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I think everything I make is better than everybody else, or that I'm the BEST...it is more about the mental aspect...it's not that I'm saying "I don't care who likes my work," it's just that I'm saying I'm trying to quite being so nit picky about creating it. I guess we all have issues! I certainly know I do! I psychologist would have a field day with me! :) LOL

This is another piece I'm currently working on...it is another example of one of my mishaps! It started out as an earring...it's funny how things can veer so far off target!

Well, that's all for tonight!

XOXO

A Weekend in Review...

2007-08-05T21:57:00.000-04:00

It's me again! :)

So, I had a good weekend, not the most eventful, but it was good! :)

Friday, I went by the thrift store. I love that place! Okay, so I know that may sound funny, because I'm not always them most cost-conscience person, but I love it! Maybe it is the possibility of finding a treasure that is priceless, or a rare find, or maybe it is the thrill of the prospect of finding something that cost a lot, for nothing. Who knows! :)

Of course, there is nothing I really need at the moment, and I never go looking for anything in particular, but I did find a couple of neat things I couldn't resist...which seems to be one of my bad habits - I'm always buying things I don't need, just because they're neat and I can't resist! :) Anyway, I found a Kate Spade handbag that cost about $200, for $1.50, that looks brand new! I bought a few books, and 2 pieces of blue "diamond point" Indiana Glass ($1/each), and a few pieces of vintage costume jewelry. A couple of the pieces were signed...Coro, Sarah Coventry, and some were just cute! One piece had a jeweler's mark I'm not familiar with...it was marked Sterling....and what looks like maybe a WH???? It looks like the last line in the W is the first line in the H...like the are merged together??? It is a vintage (although I'm not sure how old) rhinestone choker....which I will never wear, but it was cute! :) LOL

My favorite piece of the day was a navy tote ($1.25). When I saw it I thought of my mom...she is always buying cute totes to carry stuff with her to work...and it looked brand new! It was a Miss America Pageant Atlantic City - tote bag...inside it had the ticket stub from 1989 Miss America Pageant Parade on the Boardwalk. Which I thought was kinda neat!

Saturday, my friend April and her mom came over. They brought her brother's daughter, Madelyn to go swimming. My aunt and cousin came over too. So, me and mom spent the day in the pool! A day in the sun is always fun! LOL :) Madelyn had a blast! The water was steaming! It's heated, but we usually don't let it get over 90F....which is still a little hot to me(especially in the summer)! Anyway, I guess it has just been so hot...the water temperature was way over that...we left the hose running to cool it down! :) I think Madelyn enjoyed playing with the water hose more than she enjoyed the pool! :)

So, that was about it for the weekend! It was good, but too short! :) I sold 2 pairs of earrings this weekend! That was a nice surprise! Even though I have sold quite a few pieces, it is still exciting when something sells! It really makes me feel good to know someone likes a piece good enough to buy it! At the same time, it is a little sad to see the piece go, after I spent so long making it! I know that sounds silly! :) One pair was purchased by a woman in Newfoundland. This is the 5th pieces she has purchase! It is really exciting when you have "return" customers! Not to mention the fact that she is from Canada! WOW, my jewelry is international! :) LOL Imagine that! :) LOL Honestly though, I am honored and gratified that they have chosen my pieces! This is one of the pairs I sold!

This week I plan on posting a bunch of new pieces on Etsy and my website...I have made quite a few new pieces. I love making the pieces, but I still have mastered the art of photographing them! LOL I'll share some pictures of a few things that I'm working on soon!

TTFN,

XOXO

Welcome....

2007-08-05T18:59:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! Welcome to my blog!

I'm Jen, crafter, jewelry artist, painter...I love anything to do with art! As you know, I'm new to Blogger, but I also have a blog at Yahoo 360. In the past, I haven't dedicated much time to blogging, but I hope to keep this more up-to-date! I hope to share my work, ideas, and many other things that strike my fancy! However, let me warn you upfront, my spelling and grammar is atrocious! :)

First, I would like to introduce myself! Like I said earlier, my name is Jennifer...I live in Charlotte, NC, and have my entire life! I'm 30, a Pisces! I LOVE the beach. I have a BA in Business, and I love to create...anything and everything! I am always trying something new...which leaves me thinking, "gosh, I'm so unfocused!" The truth is I keep trying new things, because I think one day I will have an epiphany and find that one thing/medium that sticks out; that one thing/medium that I know immediately, is my favorite, and the one medium I want to focus on. So far, I haven't found it! I love it all! Maybe there isn't that "one" special thing...maybe, there isn't just one thing that will stand out....maybe the key is finding something you like...and just developing your skills for it! Who knows!!! :)

So, I'm making jewelry! Funny thing is it is the one thing that I never imagined myself doing! In fact, it was one thing that I thought I would have NO interest in! So, how did get started??? Well, my aunt took a class on beading...she invited me to go to a local bead shop a couple of times...finally I broke down and bought a few supplies and she showed me the basic techniques. I started dabbling, and that was it; I was hooked! :) I should have known I would like it, because I have always loved gemstones and rocks! Yeah, I was one of those kids that walked around picking up rocks and stuffing them in my pockets! LOL I think every drawer and cabinet in my parents house had at least one rock in it when I was little! :) Not to mention, my dad took me to the gem and mineral shows when I was younger, and several of my science fair projects in school were on rocks and minerals!

I am self taught...although I am signed up for a jewelry class fall semester, that focuses more on the metalsmithing side of jewelry. I'm really looking forward to expanding my knowledge of the craft! I have been making jewelry for a few years...I can definitely see the improvements in my techniques...along the way, I've learned a few new things. Most recently, I've started working with PMC, or precious metal clay! I've also dabbled a little in lampwork...I would like to take a class in it...self-teaching hasn't proved too affective thus far! LOL :) Anyway, I'll keep you posted on how the class goes! It starts August 20.

I've been selling my jewelry online for almost a year! I started out on Etsy...I joined August 8th, last year. I still sell on their! (http://www.jennlyn54.etsy.com/) In November 2006, I started showing pieces in the first gallery...it was in NY. I'm no longer with them, lets just say their business practices are lacking in several areas!!! (So, I want name any names!) In March 2007, I applied to show pieces at Maddi's Gallery here in Charlotte. Diane loved my work, and my first pieces were added at the gallery in April. I also created a website...http://jennifergardnerdesigns.com/, to show some of my work! Anyway, that's my story thus far! It has been an exciting journey! I've learned a lot and met a ton of really nice people! So, we will see what the future holds! LOL :)

Well, that's about it for now! I'll write again soon!

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XOXO