I'm baaaaack!

Well, 2006 is sure proving to be a real pain.  I feel tired all the time and there seems to be more things to do then there is actual time to do it all in...I know much of it is from unhealthy living.  Not eating right and never excercising definitely takes a toll on the body. 

Nonetheless, I am managing to get some crafty stuff going on. 

These are some of the beads I found at the Whole Bead Show in January.  Don't you just love the skulls?!  And I absolutely and totally love these vintage jewelry parts...

I used the turquoise blue piece in this bracelet I put together.  I've never worked with greens and it was a challenge for me to create something I felt was balanced and pleasing to the eye. 

I also made this bracelet for a trade with Amanda. 

Thank you, Amanda!  The earrings are beautiful and I can't wait for a chance to wear them.  Here's the pretty-ness I received from her this week.  I also received a bit of Amanda-art on the card she sent with her earrings.  So nice. 

I hope you like and enjoy your bracelet, Amanda! 

I've been getting back into the knitty swing of things.  I'm doing a new Haiku cardigan for my niece in Crystal Palace Cotton Chenille.  I'm doubling the yarn, mango and old rose. 

   

And that is some 100% merino wool from Hello Yarn.  It's 440 yards of finger weight yarn that's probably going to end up as some socks for me...myself...moi.  I've also finally found the time to attend several of the Aloha Knitters meetings.  Always fun and always humbling to be in the presence of such great knitting talent.  I feel like such a novice.  And all fumbling and awkward.  Knitting at its most ungraceful.  Yet, always wonderful knowing that there are others who share my love of all things fiber-related and handmade. 

I cannot remember for the life of me where, but I read a blog-entry recently about how there is a certain magic and power in handmade.  How true!  I find myself purchasing more and more from DIY and indie shops and supporting those who also appreciate items that are not mass produced.  I get a sense of wholeness and connection when holding a handmade item knowing that someone cared enough to create something unique and beautiful.  And enjoys sharing that with others.  Very cool...

Ahhh, well...this year doesn't seem sooo bad afterall.  It's all good, as they say!

I'll finish with a favorite photo of my son, Edward, with his sweetheart, Gena.  In honor of love and all things beautiful...Happy Belated Valentine's Day!

*Gena, by the way, is one of my favorite DIY'ers.  Her style is original and she is totally unafraid of doing things her way.  Pretty cool for a 15 year old!

Comments

[*karen]

I'm so glad you're back. I'm so jealous you got earrings from French Toast Cake. I do love the skull beads. Take care!

[stacey]

Hi! I love your bracelets! Especially the greenish one! You did good girl! Did you go to the bead show this past week? I missed it. I was on a trip. The sweater is going to be adorable in the colors you chose. Can't wait to see it finished.