This horse has many adventures ahead of him. I have had him since I was a child--a treasure swiped off my dad's desk, broken head and all. He went to the "head doctor" today and got it fixed :) Stay tuned to see what his next adventure is...

I just found Julia Pott, who hails from London, through roadside scholar, and fell in love with her illustrations! Her images are also available as mural and wallpaper sizes through photowall in the Sweden! You can check out more of her work at her etsy shop, her blog, and website.

little pretties


gears


they're doing construction around our neighborhood


fairy house? shaky hands make blurry pics!

Dave and I went for a walk today up Mt. Tabor. It was wet from all the rain (ugh!) so we skipped the dog park and went up a different trail that I hadn't been up before. We ended up at the top and walked around there a bit before heading down a long set of stairs to the bottom, and then around to the side of Mt. Tabor where we access our neighborhood. My camera battery ran out half way :(

As we were heading back to the house, a few cool things happened. Dave stopped to take pictures of some poppies and I noticed the little shells from the heads, and started picking them up. I am going to try to dry them and then use them to cast or electroform, or just for inspiration for jewelry. Then, we saw some cats hanging out and talked to their "mom" who is one of our neighbors. We had a great conversation and lots of fun laughing about our "babies"--it's always great to talk with other cat lovers, so we can gush :) We continued to walk back to our house and Dave stopped, looked up, and pointed out a hummingbird sitting on a phone line. It swooped down and flew right past us, hovered for a minute, and flew off. I hardly ever see hummingbirds, so it was good to see one hanging around.

And now, to clean the house, help little sis pack, and maybe work on some jewelry.

I have custom mother's necklaces (or rings, bracelets, earrings, etc.) available in my shop! I made my first of these for my mom's birthday last year, and it has Peridot, Emerald, and White Sapphire in it. The one pictured above features Turquoise, Opal, and White Sapphire. These pieces are beautiful and a great gift for any mother! Available in my Shop.

This weekend was great...my life no longer feels quite so sideways and the funk I was in is dissipating. On Saturday, I drove to Hood River to help a friend plan her wedding (I'm her maid of honor). The weather was amazing and I had a great day walking around, exploring, and planning.

The weather on the way home was bizarre though...I ended up driving through a freak hail storm, with all the cars slowed down and many pulled over to the side of the road. I honestly thought that our windshield might crack from all the hail. But, I got home in one piece :)

It's been a while since I wrote anything about forgiveness. Around the time of my last post on the subject, I was in the midst of processing a relationship from my past. This is a great example of how one might handle forgiveness when the other person refuses to forgive you, for whatever reasons they have. While in the throws of wrestling with a past relationship and all that it entails, I realized that perhaps part of the problem was that the other person had refused to forgive me. So, I sat down and wrote an email explaining what I am doing (exploring forgiveness) and asked if he had forgiven me or if he could. Just the act of writing that letter made me feel much better. I waited for a response for a few days afterward. None came. So what'd I do? I let it go. I realized that it didn't really matter whether this person had forgiven me or not. What matters is if I forgive myself, which I do. I forgive myself. For what? For hurting someone I cared about dearly. For failing to live up to my own expectations. For choosing a path I swore never to chose. For not realizing sooner that the relationship that he and I were in was destructive from both sides. And, I applaud myself for using those experiences and changing. I am a better person.

This is all a process. One down, more to go.

I discovered Sleep Sanctuary through daily imprint a while back. The thing that caught my eye was this lovely "cashmere hottie", a knit hot water bottle cozy to keep you warm in the winter nights!

My life has not been turned completely up-side-down, but sideways, yes. It was just last week that I was walking around smiling to myself about how happy I am with my life. I believe I was at my friend's graduation party, and I told people how happy I am. How great everything is. Within minutes of leaving the party, things started changing. A family member has moved in for a while, and I have been laid off from my 'day job'. I have never been laid off or fired in my life. I am used to being the best at what I do, and always welcome back. It is a strange feeling and I am panicking inside. I also decided to make some changes around the house.

Sooo...with all this sideways motion comes lack of energy, motivation, etc. Today is the first time I set foot in the studio to actually make something since, well, last Friday. I know that I must create. Creating is the only thing that can get me out of this ravine and back up on top of that hill I was on a week ago.

Liddy Napanangka Walker's "Wakirlpirri Jukurrpa"


Whilst living in beautiful Australia, I learned a bit about Aboriginal art. I am no expert, by far, but one of the most important aspects of Aboriginal art, to me, is who it is represented by and what they do for the artist. I want the artists to be represented fairly, and given most of the proceeds of his/her sale. If I had my way, I would be able to travel directly to the artists to purchase from them, but that is rarely possible as many of the artists live in remote communities. Recently, I saw a post on daily imprint, a blog written by Natalie Walton, on Aboriginal artists represented by United Galleries. I have always wanted to own a wonderful painting by an Aboriginal artist, and I guess now that I will just have to start saving up :) Most of the art that I like is from Utopia, a community in the Eastern Desert. It is a dream, and that's what they're all about (in a way).

via daily imprint

I recently discovered an intriguing artist through 18KT--Carla Reiter. After studying metalsmithing at Indiana University, Reiter went on to explore the world through studying physics, obtaining a graduate degree in cultural anthropology (which I imagine would have a lot of connections with being a metalsmith), working as a nightclub singer, writer, and museum curator. Throughout all of these experiences, Reiter continued to make jewelry, creating a limited production line of silver with gold leaf fabricated work, and became a full-time metalsmith in 1997.



Her work gives that feeling of historical handmade pieces, while at the same time being extremely intriguing and contemporary. Her knitted pieces combine patinaed silver with elements of copper, gold, diamonds and found objects.

I am painting our living room wall today. Of course, I have to move everything out of the way first, and get paint rollers and step ladders and trays. And tape. And sheets. But, it's getting painted. It's been "blonde" (yellow) for too long. And not a pretty yellow. In most light it looks kind of brown-ish yellow. It will be getting a nice coat of Sugar Berry by Behr paint. Can't wait to show you the "after" shots!

Before (foggy)


After (crisp & clean)


So, yesterday I was looking through photos I'd taken the night before on the computer. They had appeared clear on the camera screen, and yet, they were fuzzy. I couldn't understand why. So I told Dave I needed to use his camera to take photos. Now Dave is very funny about me using his camera. It's like his security blanket--it goes everywhere with him. I told him my photos weren't coming out right and I need to take good ones to list on Etsy. Being the troubleshooter that he is, he asked a simple question. "Have you cleaned the lens?" My thought...'but I never touch the lens..' Oh, wait, his little sister had borrowed my camera to go to a concert the other night. Hmm. I turn on the camera and look at the lens. There's a distinct greasy fingerprint (she wears a lot of lotion) on the lens. Dave gets out his lens cloth and cleans the lens for me. May the non-fuzzy-photo-taking commence! Just after I paint the living room wall :)

New in my Etsy Shop....Leaf Hoops!

Today, I parted ways with some beautiful pieces. One of my favorites--Leaf Necklace, which I made last year as part of my casting class. It is a fun piece with lots of life and movement to it. In addition to that were two Leaf Chains, which are classy and modern. And top it off, a pair of Leaf Earrings to go with the necklaces! They are all going to a wonderful home, which I am very happy about.

The other day, one of my quotes was featured on Art Biz Blog, a blog about well, art business. The question was about how to get others to take you and your art work seriously.

Getting others to take you and your work seriously is an interesting situation for a lot of artists. Many of us have friends and family who support our "hobby", but never really think of it as more than that. Then there are the colleagues from school and/or other art related ventures who do take you seriously. And then, there are gallery and shop owners. Now this is a fun one. Some of them loooove the work the way it is. Others want you to completely change it. A few just want a little added detail here and there. Perhaps all of these situations are just what I've experienced.

One family member kept asking, years ago, what I would do after I finished my degree. Go for a teaching degree? Maybe law school! After politely responding, I finally told him "look, I'm not spending $60,000 to not use my degree. I need you to support me on this", and that worked. Another family member has always been supportive of my work, constantly encouraging me to educate myself and think about making jewelry full time instead of looking for a "back-up" career. This has always made me feel positive, inspired, and hopeful.

My friends love my work. I am constantly encouraged by them. They are my advertisers, wearing my pieces that they have received for birthdays and holidays. I have one friend in particular who I turn to in times of strife. He is the most honest, blunt friend I have, and has told me in the past when my work needed help. I have grown, and he has helped me in many ways. I always know he will be honest, and it helps that he indeed loves my work and tells me what an amazing artist I am and to not let anyone get me down. He is a rock for me. It helps that he is also an amazing film maker and designer.

Many gallery and shop owners have loved my work. But, I have been faced with those (one) who wanted me to make a lot of changes. I must acknowledge that when I approached him, I was not as solidified in my ideas and direction as I am now, and I think his reaction would be different now, but the comments that were made, and the fact that he was telling an artist how to change their work definitely made me re-think my desire to have my work in his gallery. It showed a lack of respect for my artistic integrity, and I know that I am a damn good metalsmith. Others, who carry my work and have requests for little changes are different--they are wanting little enhancements because they know what sells in their stores, and I can definitely respect that and work with them.

So, in the face of people that cannot see your art for what it is, turn to those who are supportive and encouraging. Then, really look at your work and remember what it took to get you to where you are. Remember the hurdles and struggles, and remember your skills. And then, embrace yourself and say "I am a damn good artist!" And always, always remember, that you can't please everyone (it's just like with food).

New in my Etsy Shop--Larvae Earrings! Just in time for spring...

Well, my birthday got off to a rough start today. I don't think I'll post the details here but those close to me know what's going on. Anyway, after a bit of a cry and some anger, I decided not to let it ruin my birthday.

Dave took today off work to spend with me, which is a wonderful gift. We met up with our friend Tony at the local rock gym and went bouldering for a bit (I'm very out of shape when it comes to climbing), which was really fun. Then we enjoyed fish tacos and beverages at Dingo's. After coming home for a little break, I decided we hadn't worked out enough climbing so we should go walk up Mt. Tabor a bit. Ha! My legs are so sore :) We just walked through the dog park and played in the playground for a while, and then came home because of the heat. Now it's time to get ready to go eat sushi at Bara Sushi House!

I'm really looking forward to seeing some of my good friends and enjoying the rest of my evening :)

Last week was a whirlwind of events, mostly comprised of getting ready for the OCAC Metals Department Jewelry Sale, and celebrating various events leading up to graduation (my friend Saskia graduated!).

Saturday was the jewelry sale and it went well. I don't know exactly how many pieces I sold but I know that quite a few sold and people really liked my work.

Sunday, my mom and stepdad came into town with my niece, J, and we celebrated a late mother's day and early birthday for me. I got my mom a wonderful little sea anemone wall sculpture from the OCAC ceramics sale on Saturday, and she got me a bunch of wonderful goodies (above).

We went to Pho Hung for lunch, then up to the college to show them the Ceramics sale (J got a special little necklace there) and gallery, then to the nearby playground to burn off some energy. On the way home we stopped by the ice cream shop for smoothies and ice cream, which was wonderful. It was such a great day, and getting to spend it with family was a perfect birthday present!

As I was perusing the front page of Etsy today, a gorgeous necklace stopped me in my tracks. A beautiful pale pink poppy, ceramic, and gorgeous. Made by Sofia Masri, a 29 year old artist originally from Mexico City. Hailing from Chicago, this wonderful artist creates a wealth of beautiful porcelain creations.

image via sofiamasri.etsy.com

I picked this up (along with a few other goodies) at the OCAC ceramics sale today. Sweet! My jewelry is on sale there, too. Today. Until 5. People like it (which always makes me feel good).

(disclaimer: I look bad today because I stayed up too late last night...2 am)

I originally discovered Diana Fayt through Etsy, where she has some of her beautiful pieces listed in her shop, oneblackbird. And boy am I glad! Fayt hails from San Francisco, born to a family of artistic nature, and with much experience abroad under her belt. Her ceramic vessels and objects are absolutely beautiful, emitting organic qualities and full of stories and color. They speak of journeys, dreams, and nature. They pull at my heart strings. I hope to start adding her pieces to my collection relatively soon. You can check out her website, blog, and etsy sites by clicking on the links!

.....can make me cry.

The kind that is chunky, full of apples, and cinnamon. Just like my dad used to make. I walked past this jar in Trader Joes and saw the title, and stopped in my tracks. Upon arrival at home, I took my first bite, and had to fight back tears. It's not the same as my dad's but it's reminiscent of it.

I remember after my dad died, thinking "damn. I never got his applesauce recipe"...seems kind of silly, but it was a big part of my childhood, picking apples from our apple "orchard" and making applesauce. I don't remember ever being a big helper in the process, but I always loved the end result.

I am sure there are recipes out there, but I know that they will never be the same. My dad always had his little "flairs" to add to food. At least now I can reminisce :)

Teapot, Saskia Moes, 2007


Today I went to the Oregon College of Art and Craft for their Annual Metals Department Tea Party! For those unfamiliar with the programs at OCAC, in 3rd year, students create a teapot out of silver as part of the raising and hollow form instruction. At the end of the year, these students serve tea in their teapots...it's a lot of fun, there's good food and tea, lots of people, and amazing teapots to gaze at and chat about.

I will be taking the teapot class in Spring 2009, which will be hard, fun, and interesting!

I am so excited to finally share this news with you.
My work is now available at Carol Young | Undesigned in L.A.! Carol Young is an amazing designer. A former architecture student, Young became intrigued by the needs of "urban nomads" while living abroad in Asia. While travelling using a variety of modes, Young found herself searching for clothing that was comfortable and would allow her to move while at the same time being an expression of herself.

Once back in the United States, she accepted a fellowship at Cornell University to explore these needs for functional apparel design. What resulted was an exploration into "undesigned" designs using recycled clothing and sports apparel materials.

One of the things that really stuck out at me while I was "researching" Carol Young, is that not only does her company donate all fabric scrap to local childrens' are programs as well as fundraising for various non-profits and schools, they are a member of One Percent for the Planet. I don't think I could have found a better place for my jewelry to be represented.

Carol Young's designs are timeless and perfect for the modern woman, and I am so excited to be part of her journey!

Carol Young | Undesigned is located at:
1953 1/2 Hillhurst Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90027

The Annual Oregon College of Art and Craft Ceramics and Jewelry sale will be this weekend at the college. Please come if you can make it!

This is what I am currently lusting after...a pierced ring (actually this pierced ring) by Rebecca Scheer. I've tried it on, it's tickly and wonderful and makes my heart swoon. Check out Rebecca's other work at www.scheersilver.com

Stretching feels soooooo good!

Today is definitely a yoga and strength day :)

Happy Mother's Day!!!

After a fast tracked morning cooking breakfast for 10 people, I came home mid day and decided to clean the two most cluttered spots in the house--the kitchen table and my desk. Things were getting lost and I was going a little crazy :)

Enjoy!

Dave teaching grandma how to use his camera


Dave photographing the family (5 kids, 3 spouses, 1 mom, 1 grandma!)


Kitchen table....before...


Kitchen table...after!


Desk...before...


Desk...after!!!