A Wrapper's View

Jana Bodin - Gallery Artist Profile

2011-08-04T10:17:00.000-04:00

As part of my Gallery artist profiles, today I want to introduce you to Jana Bodin of Treehouse Herbs.

Jana is totally in love with herbs and has never stopped being amazed by what a little plant is able to provide. Many of her artisan recipes are come from a long time of experimenting and some are come with her heritage. She grew up in Eastern Germany and where they use all kinds of herbs in daily life.

Everything is organic & handmade. The herbs she uses are grown in her garden or just grow wild on their property. Herbs she can't harvest herself she acquires from trusted, certified organic suppliers.
Everything is organic & handmade.

As it gets cold outside, her family enjoys especially the tea drinking part. Sitting together with some sweets and a hot cup of tea in after a hard day in school or at work is truly unbeatable.

You will find a lovely selection of Jana's herbal teas at Time and Sand Gallery. You can choose from Good Morning Tea, Red Rooibos Chai (which is my favorite!), Stress Relief Tea and Sleep Well Tea. Each tea is comes in a lovely tin. These make great gifts too, just add a tea cup!

Blessings, C.

On the Road Again

2011-08-03T11:39:00.000-04:00

Off to rural Indiana this week to visit old friends. Sunday evening the four of us, our two dogs and enough belongings for a week piled into the car, drove to the "center of nowhere".

Four years ago our friends left Columbus, so that Rod could start a new venture as a turkey farmer. We have missed them. Getting ready to go and visit we wondered if we should make the trip, many things to do at home, the heat, a car with no air-conditioning were many of the few things that were saying stay put, don't go. But the memories of good friends and our children's' possible disappointment helped us to put the call of obligation behind. We packed the car and headed out.

We stopped at the Chocolate Moose in Blooming for ice cream. Torch cones for the dogs and a small vanilla for the each of us and made our way through the back roads. We have not visited this family for a few years. We have children the same age and met at church.

We arrived in the center of nowhere in the evening and were met with food and friendship. You know those friends that even though you haven't seen them in a long while, you can pick up where you left off without missing a beat. These are those kind of friends. We kept them up, or they kept us up catching up and laughing all the way.

When we finally crawled into bed, Russell and I lay next to each other and said "I am so glad we came, I know why we miss these people, I haven't laughed that much in so long"

In this modern day of on to the next thing as fast as possible. I am very grateful for a trip to the center of nowhere to remind me that friendships are the glue that hold us all together and that laughter is the key to contentment.

Blessings, C.

Fusing Glass Today

2011-07-28T23:30:00.000-04:00

Getting ready to make new glass pieces for Glassworks Gallery in Louisville. I have been fusing glass all week, I use a microwave kiln, so each piece is fired individually, then I carefully sand the edges and back of each piece. They are then ready to be wrapped with sterling silver to create pendants, rings and bracelets.

I love to work with glass. Each piece is a surprise when it comes out of the kiln, sometimes the process creates colors, or effects that I do not expect. Usually this is a good thing, though occasionally I hear a ping from the kiln. That is not a good thing, it means that the piece has imploded and I have to start from the beginning.

But as I gain more experience the pings are fewer and fewer. This is a good thing, a very good thing.

Blessings, C.

Sterling Wrap Rings - New from the workbench

2011-07-26T22:18:00.002-04:00

New from my studio workbench. I have started making these sterling silver wrap rings. They are fun to make and to wear. The design allows them to be adjustable. Each ring is made individually, some are polished to a bright sheen, some are given a textured silky surface and some are stamped with a design.

It is so much fun to make a new design, and sometimes things don't work out as I think they will, but these turned out just as I planned.

They are available for sale at Time and Sand Gallery and online too.

Bee Skinner - Gallery Artist Profile

2011-07-24T19:42:00.000-04:00

Currently we have the work of 16 different artists represented in Time and Sand Gallery. I thought what a great idea it would be to blog about these artists and their works.

I would like to introduce you to Bee Skinner, a fused glass artist from Battle Ground, IN. I have not met Bee in person, but hope to someday. I first "met" Bee on an online Etsy team called INcrowd. INcrowd is a group of creative people who live in Indiana and sell online at Etsy.com

When I first decided to open the gallery I posted my idea on the group's message board and Bee was one of the first to encourage me and also sign up to have her beautiful glass in my shop.

The following is an excerpt from her shop profile: Life is pretty fast and furious right now. I'm sure it is for you as well. I am constantly working in the studio, moving my art through many processes, i.e. developing new skills, the elements of design and, as always, deep, deep goofiness. I am LOVING every last minute of it!!!! I am also trying to make as many shows as possible because deeply seeded within me is my love of meeting people and watching their amusement and smiles when they see my work. I'm an interactive kind of gal.

I love all facets of glass – from design and color play to the cutting, shaping, and firing (FIRE!). I am inspired by my garden, and admire ornamental designs from all over the world – from Appalachia to the Ukraine. I hope my work reflects the fun I am having in my studio and the beautiful things I observe in the world around me.

This beautiful vase is one of Bee's pieces you can purchase in my shop. She took peacock and amber glass cut them, then crossed them and fired the glass flat. In a second firing the glass is allowed to drop freely until just the right moment. Bee states that thrill of this process is sublime.

Come and see Bee's wonderful pieces at the Time and Sand Gallery, 1107 16th Street, Columbus, Indiana. Our hours are Tuesdays 10-5 and Saturday 10-2pm.

Blessings, C.

A Very Very Fun Party at Time and Sand Gallery!

2011-07-23T11:07:00.001-04:00

One of the best things for me is teaching others. And teaching others my love for jewelry making is one of the best of the best!

Over the past months I have taught many classes at the gallery. One of my favorite classes are private parties.

Last month I held a party for a group of 7 and 8 year old girls. They arrived excited to be together and we quickly got started. I taught them how to design their bracelets, each child picked out their beads and decided on their design. Then we crimped, strung our beads and created individual bracelets and necklaces.

They were delightful and delighted! It was such a fun hour and half for all of us. Then they went across the street to Sweet Rose Bakery for a treat. What more could a girl ask for jewelry and cookies?!

And yes, we do parties for all ages, whether it's a 7 year old birthday, a play-date for friends, or a get together for a Ladies Night Out we can create a custom event. To book a private party contact me at 812-603-1721 or send email to carrie@timeandsand.com

Blessings, C.

New Class At The Library

2011-07-18T22:57:00.000-04:00

This August I will be teaching a new class at the Bartholomew County Library. A few years ago I came across a tutorial for a beaded rope necklace. Although most of my work consists of wire-work, I love to try new techniques. So I tried the bead weaving tutorial and found that I could make beautiful beaded necklace or bracelet.

So for my next class I will be sharing this wonderful technique. Using beading thread and seed beads we will create a beaded project that can be made into a bracelet or necklace. It will be a fun and exciting evening for all.

All supplies, worksheets and use of tools are provided. Participants should be able finish their project that evening. Supply fee is $20-pay at class. Registration is required. Register online at http://www.barth.lib.in.us/
The class is limited to 12 students.

I so love to teach and look forward to teach something new.

Blessings, C.

Working on Kits - Been a Long Time Coming

2011-07-11T11:47:00.000-04:00

Many have asked me about kits to make my class projects at home. What a great idea, I thought the first time someone asked. So, after many inquiries and a few months, I finally am able to say, I have some kits in stock!

Galaxy Ring Kit

So far I have four projects available: Psalm 23 Scripture Bracelet, Linked Beaded Bracelet, Galaxy Ring, and Patriotic Pendant. These are classes that I have taught locally and now the kits are available for those who cannot come to my class and for students who want to go home and make more. Each kit comes with all the supplies to make one piece of jewelry, tools list and written instructions.

I have them available at the shop and online at www.timeandsand.com. And of course, I am working new kits as we speak. So it may take me awhile to get things done, but it feels great to finally have kits available. Maybe someday, I will all my photos in scrapbooks! :-)

Blessings, C.

Where Does Time Go?

2011-07-07T11:01:00.000-04:00

I have been sitting here this morning in front of my laptop. The morning coffee has been drunk, email checked, Facebook looked at and suddenly it is 2 hours later. Where does the time go?

In this day of convenience, one has the illusion that you can get more tasks done and be more efficient. I am sure that is true, but most of the time for me, it seems that my time flies by as my task list grows!

The tasks I thought I would get done before 12:30 (the time I need to leave for work), will not be done, as I now head to shower and dress for the day (yes, I am just getting to that at 11am!, goodness!).

So for the hundreth time today I ask myself, where did the time go?

Blessings, C.

The Let's Make Jewelry classes are a hit!

2011-07-05T11:18:00.001-04:00

Garrett and his Christian Flag creation

It has been a wonderful experience this summer teaching my love for jewelry making to children. And I have also been learning some things from them.

Last week I had a private class booked by a mom who wanted me to help her daughter and friend learn basic jewelry making for a 4H project. She asked if her son, Garrett could come and learn to make my patriotic pendant at the same time and I agreed.

They arrived and we began to make jewelry. The girls began working the first of 4 projects, while Garrett and I began on the pendant. He was so enthusiastic and as we worked together he immediately began thinking on other flags he could make with my design.

He wanted to make a Christian flag and so we worked out the pattern and he started his second pendant as the girls continued to work on their bracelets and necklaces.

The girls, Garrett and I had a blast. Ten jewelry pieces were completed that day, I made three new friends and each child left with a piece to enter one in their 4H fair.

The best part of the day for Garrett is the wonderful pendant he is proudly showing in his picture. But for me the best part of the day was sharing my love for creating jewelry. For taking an idea and adding your own flair, your own voice to each piece you make. And I thank Garrett for letting me in on his creative journey.

Blessings, C

Studio/Gallery is Open!

2011-05-15T21:27:00.000-04:00

We are open! Thank you to all who came and showed their support at our Grand Opening. It was a wonderful day and a great start for our gallery. We currently have over 15 Indiana artists represented. Drop in and see fine handcrafted jewelry, art glass, photography and more artisan crafts. Check out our new class offerings and discover hidden talents.

We Did! New Studio/Shop Location

2011-04-09T22:16:00.000-04:00

It has been a whirlwind week. In my last post, I talked about the decision we were trying to make. Should we or shouldn't we open a storefront for Time and Sand? The answer is we are!

We picked up the keys this morning. This evening after I got off work, we cleaned the floor, moved in a few things and hung a sign in the window. The journey has begun!

Time and Sand Jewelry & Gifts will be located at 1107 16th Street here in Columbus. We are planning on a grand opening on Sunday, May 1st. Details to follow.

Will keep you updated, but for now I am going to sign off, I have a lot of packing to do.

Blessings, C.

Should we or Shouldn't we?

2011-04-05T10:32:00.001-04:00

Ominous title I know. We have been struggling with a decision here. There is a storefront in town, that has had me thinking ... It has been available on and off over the past 5 years, once the long time tenant (a painter) retired and closed shop. When I drive by, I think "hm mm, that would be a good starting point for my studio/store idea.

The idea I have had for sometime is a space where people could shop for my jewelry and other handmade items, where people could come for classes and where I could have a larger space to accommodate my growing inventory demands.

A few weeks ago, Russell and I drove by and low and behold there is a "FOR RENT" sign in the window. So I bravely said, "you know I think that might make a good space for me" and to my slight surprise and delight Russell's response was "give the number and call and maybe we can see it". We were able to see the space that afternoon and have been noodling ever since!

And it has begun, the questions!

Should be make the leap of faith and rent the space? Should we invest at this time, in this economy? Would people come? Would we have the time to devote to this project?

We have answered some of the questions and some will only be answered if and when we give it a try, A few weeks ago, we had nixed the idea for now, but then we keep driving by and the possibilities call to us because it is something we want to do. So we as asking ourselves once again, Should We? or Shouldn't We?

Keep you posted, and please let us know what you think? We could use more input!

Blessings, C.

Our Wonderful Folly Beach Vacation 2011

2011-03-28T11:30:00.000-04:00

We have just returned from our annual family vacation. Folly Beach in South Carolina has become our yearly destination in March. This year we rented a beach house just blocks from the beach, rented bikes and spent the week basking in the warm Carolina spring weather.

It is always a wonderful respite for us all. We rested, walked the beach, ate wonderful seafood (a plus for those of us transplanted to the Midwest from the coast!), went on long bike rides, played card games in the evenings and laughed till our sides split!

We did a little sightseeing, with a trip into Charleston. We went to Patriots Point, where the USS Yorktown is moored and took a water taxi boat to downtown Charleston. We went shopping in the Charleston Market, a wonderful open air market that dates back to the Slave Trade days of the southern city. Ate lunch at Monza's which was a wonderful find by Zac, who researched and planned most of our meals out. Where we had the best wood fire baked pizza with an egg on it, yummy! Really the pizza was amazing!

We were was able to find interesting local attractions and travel information from Discounthotels.com. They had some pretty great hotel discounts, and fun family vacations ideas!

All in all it was the best vacation so far, and that is saying a lot because that is what we said after last year's vacation! And yes, we did have cake! Tris Leches cake from Taco Boy on Folly Beach, the best ever!

Blessings!, C.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2011-03-02T12:23:00.000-05:00

Today is Dr. Seuss' birthday. I wanted to take a moment and celebrate this wonderful author. His books If I Ran the Zoo, Horton Hears a Who!,"The Cat in the Hat", How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Green Eggs and Ham and many more were childhood favorites. I loved reading and still have the copies that I enjoyed so much as a child and really enjoyed sharing with my children.

My father had a Dr. Seuss painting above his fireplace called the Golden Girl, so Dr. Seuss has had a profound presence in my family too. When Russell quoted the Sleep Book from memory once during our dating days, I was hooked! A man who could recite Dr. Seuss had to be the one for me!

From "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go..."

Blessings, C.

Feeling Nostalgic Today

2011-02-23T10:55:00.000-05:00

Mom & I in 1986, Port Credit, Ontario

Well this post is going to be more personal today, I have been working a little in the studio, but as March approaches things tend to get a little more personal for me. I lost my parents to cancer, they died about 14 months apart. A difficult time and as time passes, my mother died almost 3 years ago on March 5th, 2008, the pain eases, but the loss is always ready to surface.

Last night we were watching the TV show Parenthood. It was an episode that hit home for me, the portrayal of two teenage children trying to come to terms with the father's lack of being around, was very familiar. Not the same but familiar. My parents divorced when I was 13 and my Dad was often in another state. As I watched these children grapple with the pain of growing up and learning that parents are people too, with warts and all. Suddenly I was 13 again remembering the pain of, well being 13.

My Dad, being my Dad

I remembered my own process of learning that my dad wasn't perfect, nor my mother either, but that he and she loved me immensely and that I was very important to them. My father and I were very blessed, we were given time to heal and to come to know each other for who we were and became very close before he died in 2006.

I miss them both very much, to all whose parents are still around, give them your love, forgiveness if needed, and let them know how you feel. For those of us whose parents have left this world, I send out hugs and blessings and the hope that you can remember the good and when the bad memories come you can simply remember that we are all forgiven by our heavenly father.

Blessings, C.

A Custom Piece - The Beginning

2011-02-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

I often do custom jewelry. I like to create pieces for people, I have wrapped river pearls, stones, made dragonflies and more. It is often challenging and sometimes it takes alot of patience and persistence on my part to get it right.

I currently have a custom project, I received the stones a few days ago and have started to work on it. I thought I would blog about the process. So here is where I am. These are the stones that the client has sent to me, two beautiful emerald cut amethyst and two round cut peridot. They are small the peridot are 8mm round.

I will be creating a pair of earrings with both stones set in each earring. As I work on this process I plan to photograph and blog about it. So here is the beginning of my custom journey, come along with me, and let's see what happens!

More to follow, blessings, C.

Gone to the Movies

2011-02-18T20:57:00.000-05:00

Russell and I are at that stage in parenting that we can leave the children at home. This is a wonderful stage for many reasons, our children get the opportunity to show how mature they are and that they can handle the responsibility. At least that is what seems to be happening when we return!

And we are getting the opportunity to connect again. So this evening we went on a movie date. After dropping our youngest at a sleep-over, we headed to the local theater to see The King's Speech. What an absolutely wonderful film! I enjoyed it immensely and cuddling in a dark theater, munching on popcorn with my sweetie was the icing on the cake!

The film made me think about what I consider a tough day, nothing I have had to deal with lately comes close to having to step up to a microphone (with a stammer) and become a leader to a country on the brink of war. So next time my world seems heavy laden I think I will remember King George VI and be thankful that my realm is much, much smaller.

With many blessings, C.

New Sea Glass Collection

2011-02-17T05:00:00.001-05:00

I have been creating new sea glass jewelry. I love sea glass , this wonderful gift from the water. My first experience with sea glass was in Maine in 2002. My family and I were visiting my mother, who had moved to Maine.

Everyday we would load up a wagon with beach chairs, towels, buckets and children and walk down to the beach to hang out for the day. The children would play in the water, make sand castles and new friends, while Russell and I would comb the shoreline for sea glass pieces.

We ended up taking home pounds of these lovely gifts of the sea. It has taken me a while to start making jewelry with sea glass but here it is and I am having so much fun!

Wrapped Cabochon Pendant Class - Sunday Feb. 20th at 2pm

2011-02-16T07:47:00.000-05:00

I am teaching my Wrapped Cabochon/Pendant class again. This is a great beginner/intermediate class. You will learn the basics of wire wrapping while creating own unique pendant.

This class is this Sunday, February 20th at 2:00pm at Arts A Poppin', 625 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis. The cost is $40.00 and includes all supplies and use of tools. Call 317-822-1200 to register. Class size is limited to 8 people.

This is one of my favorite classes to teach, it was my first official class I took over 5 years ago and it began a great journey!

Blessings, C.

New Classes!

2011-01-31T05:00:00.002-05:00

In December I taught a class at our public library. The class had a limit of 15 and on the evening of the class I ended up with 17 students and had to turn people away. So to say the least, the evening was a success. And the Program Director wanted me back! Very cool.

So we have scheduled two new classes. Both are being held at Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth Street Columbus IN 47201 (812) 379-1255. You can register online at http://www.barth.lib.in.us/

A Coiled Pendant Class, March 24th at 6:30 pm. Learn how to make a wire wrapped and beaded pendant. Learn basic wire wrapping and beading techniques in this hands-on jewelry making class. All supplies, worksheets and use of tools are provided. Participants will finish their project that evening. Cost for supplies $20-pay at class. Limit 12 students.

Spring's Blooming Bracelet Class, April 30th at 10:00am Learn how to make a delightful wrapped and beaded bracelet just in time for spring ! Learn basic wire wrapping and beading techniques in this hands-on jewelry making class. All supplies, worksheets and use of tools are provided. Participants will finish their project that evening. Cost for supplies $20-pay at class. Limit 12 students.

I am so excited to be teaching locally again, we always have so much fun! Hope to see some of you there. Blessings to All! C.

New Earring Collection

2011-01-30T06:34:00.000-05:00

I have been working on a few new collections, and here is the first completed! These are sterling silver earrings with stone or glass accents. These represent my favorite type of jewelry beads and wire wrapping. I love the detail work, for me I find this very relaxing, I know what kind of nut am I. Hmmm ...

A dozen of these are on there way to Arts A Poppin at 425 Mass Ave in Indianapolis. Arts A Poppin' is an artisans based fine art and craft gift shop. All the art is made by local, regional and national artists. You will find pottery, jewelry, woodwork,metalwork, glasswork, textiles, prints, cards, soap and more there.

They have "Artists at Work" demonstrations are given throughout the year too. And I will be having a Make and Take class (cost is $20, registration is not required) there on Saturday February 12th from 1-5pm. Come visit and learn to make a beaded bracelet with me and see my newest work!

Blessings, C.

The Sisyphus Syndrome?

2011-01-14T11:53:00.000-05:00

OK this is not a new syndrome, but in talking with Russell about my post for today, I mentioned that I was going to talk about the never-ending cycle I am in with my studio space and he said "like Sisyphus in Greek mythology" and of course, I had to ask "Who?"

And here is the scoop, in Greek mythology Sisyphus was a king punished by being compelled to roll an immense boulder up a hill, only to watch it roll back down, and to repeat this throughout eternity. He is also found in Roman mythology. So, the word "sisyphean" means "endless and unavailing, as labor or a task".

And I had to agree, I was in sisyphean cycle with my studio space. I have a desire to work on my jewelry, but this is usually after a period of time ) in which I have been too busy to work at home, so in that time I have cluttered my space by dumping whatever I need a space for but don't where to put it. (see photo)

So in order to get creative again, I have to clean up my space, which I do, yes I have actually taken a photo, to prove I am basically a neat person ;-) Then I get a few pieces complete and then things get busy and I start to clutter up my space again, and therein lies the cycle.

Well, along with my New Year's resolution to keep up with my paperwork, I am now adding the task of creating a system that keeps my space organized and still allows me the organic space for being creative! So maybe Sisyphus has to keep rolling that boulder up the hill, only to see it roll back down, but I can break this cycle!

Keep tuned for the outcome!

Blessings to All! C.

January Brings on Inventory

2011-01-05T08:37:00.000-05:00

As the new year gets on its way, it brings with it Inventory! Sometimes a good thing, sometimes a bad thing, depends on the year. This year the actual inventory chore should be quite short and to the point, this year having started selling to stores, my at home inventory is very sparse. Some years I have way to much to catalog. And yes, every year I state that I am going to keep up with inventory, paperwork and the like on a monthly basis, but other than sales tax filing I let things go until ... January!

So this year is very different, things are more organized with the new studio space, but with a new computer and not having a printer for a few months, I have a lot of paperwork to catch up on. So this is my project of January, to set up a more efficient paperwork trail and to get myself to step up and work on this monthly!

I have a good start, I investigated, reviewed and purchased a new printer, all by myself, with no help from Russell. I installed it and got it working and now here I go!

Onward to inventory and organization the mainstays of January.

Blessings to all! C.

A New Year - Hmmm What Shall it Bring?

2011-01-02T18:08:00.001-05:00

First of All a Blessed and Happy New Year to All!

I love New Year's Eve. Russell and I are not big splashy New Year's celebrators, we don't go out on the town and we don't have a big party. Sometimes we go to friends, but on the whole we stay at home. Our traditional New Year's is a smorgasbord of our favorite finger foods and treats, a bottle of wine, sparkling cider for the children and a glass of champagne at midnight. This year was pretty much the same, with the exception of the wonderful dinner our son Zac made with the help of his sou-chef (his grandfather) and a couple of hilarious games of Apples to Apples.

New Year's is symbolic of a new start, we pack away the old year, and anticipate the new. Putting 2010 away was a good thing in many ways, I was quite ill at the beginning of the year, was unemployed for awhile, and spent quite a bit of time making employment adjustments. It certainly had its ups and downs. We had a our first "real" holiday in many years, the children have been successful in their music and at our 4H Fair, Russell's father recovered from a severe illness and was here to celebrate with us and many more positives.

As I look back, it was a tumultuous year, not one I want to forget, just quietly pack away. And what will the New Year bring? Hm-mm, will have to wait and see. But it starts out more gently than last year, a new job for me as an Associate manager which is fun and challenging and brings with it wonderful co-workers and less stress. The end of craft and art shows and the beginning of galleries for Time and Sand Jewelry and the hopeful appearance of a less stressful, more peaceful time here at The Davies.

Blessings to All! C.

A Wonderful Site for Moms and Women Everywhere

2010-11-02T22:39:00.000-04:00

I have disovered a wonderful website by Heather called Mommy loves giveaways. Every week she had give aways, does reviews and has wonderful information for Moms and women.

This week's giveaway is a Warmer and Scent bar from
Scentsy gives you everything you love about candles, while taking away everything you don't. You start by picking out your "warmer." You might want to pick one for every room, because there are just too many cute designs.

Check it out at http://www.mommylovesgiveaways.com/

Blessings to All. C.

Family Pendant Orders!

2010-10-25T15:33:00.001-04:00

The Holiday's are approaching, I can always tell, suddenly my orders for my Family Tree Pendant begin to swell. I have received a half-dozen this week already and it is only Monday. I love making these. Each tree has its own life, its own story. I have made them for sisters, expecting mothers, grandmothers, moms and more.

Recently I have done one for a great-grandmother with 23 stones in the tree branches representing the children, grandchildren and great-grandchild with two stones in the roots of the tree representing the grandparents. And it was reported that the pendant totally delighted the recipient! How much fun!

I want my jewelry to be heirlooms, passed down from generation to generation and it is wonderful to create something that represents the generations.

You can order them online at my website http://www.timeandsand.com/customfamilypendants.htm

I'm the Featured Blog this Week!

2010-10-09T16:33:00.000-04:00

I just received an email, letting me know that my blog is being featured as the "Blog of the Week" from Shelia at artcraftmakingsupplies.com . Way cool, cause it does answer the age old blog question - does anyone read the words I put down here and send off into cyberspace? Well at least Shelia does!

I have been sporadic at best lately and have been thinking that this was simply a waste of time, or at least an exercise in self-importance. Do I have anything worth reading to say? Let me know that you are out there, I am going to take this week to try reaching out and saying something of note, or at least of some interest :-)

I have been spending most of the weekend, at home ill. As I have mentioned in earlier posts I have diabetes. I won't bore you with the details, but I am adjusting to new medication and it has been a rocky few days. So I have lots of time to think, not sure that is a good thing or not!

I have been making jewelry semi-seriously for 5 years, I love making jewelry! Every time I get to my workbench, I am caught up once again in the wonder of what I can do with some wire, some glass, beads and some time. But to make jewelry I have to sell jewelry, sometimes a Catch 22.

What is the best option? How do I go about it? Where do I start? Once started, looking at what works and what does not. Should I sell at shows? online? in shops? Where o where do I go? (told you I had been thinking) Well, I am sure that I am not the only one.

Working at selling can be a full-time job! How does one balance family, work, creating, selling in this fast-paced, everyone out there world? Well I will be the first to admit that I do not always do it well. and often by the seat of my pants.

So today's post is a pondering time - how do you balance things?. What works for you to have time to create, sell, and have fun? Let me know and I will be working on a list for you for tomorrow's post.

For now, keep on creating! Blessings, C.

Getting on my Groove

2010-09-12T10:03:00.000-04:00

Russell at the Eiteljorg Museum Shop

As many of you know the past few months have been hectic, disorganized and lead me to new roads and pathways. While I am back at home now, working steadily at my new job, finding my place in my new schedule. All the while trying to fit jewelry making, being a wife, mothering, church member, friend, house cleaning (you get the picture) in.

Today I am feeling like maybe, just maybe I am finding my groove. Not perfect, of course, that is Christ's position, but at least I am able to move small objects and leap mounds of clothing! My husband and I are trying to find ourselves in these new roles life's changes has brought us. But I have found others to sell my jewelry for me, am feeling comfortable in my new position and am enjoying the financial boost of the new job.

Family Tree Pendant

And I am finding time to create, not a lot, but it is a beginning. Have made a few Family Tree Pendants, one for a new dad to give to his new mommy wife and one for a grandmother to celebrate her birthday. Always brings me joy to create this piece.

I have also unearthed my kiln and found space on my worktable, so here's to finding ones groove in the hectic lives we live. Good luck to all who are managing changes, slogging through and finding beauty along the way.

Blessings to All! C.

When Time Flies - Where Does it Go?

2010-09-03T23:12:00.001-04:00

The date of my last post was July 28 and today's is September 3rd. So where does time go when it flies by, anyway? Wish I knew.

I have taken on a new position, as of August 2nd, I now work for AT&T as a Retail Sales Consultant, translation, I sell cell phones (and TV services, Internet and more). I spent most of the month of August in Detroit in training classes and this week has been my first in the store. The new position has taken over my time, and thus it has flown the coop!

I am still planning to make and sell jewelry, but will admit that it has taken a back burner, way, way back. Since I do occasionally like to sleep, I know what a sissy I am :-)

And am sure that in the morning I will look at this post and realize that it make no sense, but I wanted to write, it has been such a long time. Here's to a regular schedule and hope for time to create. Will chat incoherently again soon.

Blessings to All! C.

My Newest Creation from the Studio!

2010-07-28T16:02:00.001-04:00

Often my creation have to do with what I am doing, interested in, where I am etc. The seashell pieces came after our trip to the beach this spring. Well where did my newest come from? I think my mother's imagination and sense of play. She and her co-workers used to have a Tacky Day, each one would work on their costume most of the year I think, gaudy earrings, lots of costume jewelry with loud and flowery prints and bright colors.

I would get reports and pictures but I never got to participate because we lived at a distance most of my adult life. So I wanted to capture this fun and hilarious idea in my jewelry making.

The Bead Ladies series is here! Cute, adorable pins, that will sit on your shoulder and bring delight to those around you and you too, of course!

They have been purchased by a gallery in Louisville, Glassworks, and 6 lovely ladies are on their way there. But also, you can purchase them from my website www.timeandsand.com and I will have some at the Farmer's Market this weekend. But they are finding homes quickly, I am making these delightful women as fast as I can!

Blessings to all, C.

Mother/Daughter Trip

2010-07-27T14:43:00.000-04:00

I have been busy, busy. So much going on don't know where to start.

Well, I will report some fun stuff today, last week Hannah and I took a little trip to Louisville. It's just over an hour away and we had visited a few years ago with her class and have always wanted to do a return trip. So we planned a mother/daughter get away, booked a room, made plans to go to the Zoo and to The Cheesecake Factory and left the rest to make up along the way.

We had a fantastic time, it was good for us to spend some time just the two of us. We had a fabulous dinner at the Cheesecake Factory (had enough to warm up in the microwave for the next day's lunch), spent a day exploring the zoo. We both love to go to the zoo and we came back with lots of photos.

Relaxed by the pool in the evening and just giggled, got lost a few times, mom likes to go the wrong way occasionally, but Hannah was a great navigator and got us back on track. We both returned refreshed and ready to get back to our lives, but we are already planning, or is that plotting our next adventure!

In an Ordinary Day

2010-06-28T15:47:00.000-04:00

It is an ordinary Monday, or so I think ...

While out and about this morning, while at a stop light, I glanced over at my daughter and saw how much she resembled a picture I have of my mother at the same age. A twinge, missing Mom ...

Hannah was looking over a job application I had picked up and as she read the section, "Nickname or what you prefer to be called" she smiled and said "you should put my name is Carrie, but please call me George". Wow, I just heard my mother's humor come out of my beautiful daughter. And I thank God for the moment, because my beautiful mother lives in the heart of my lovely daughter. The light turns green and I smile, for a moment the missing has gone, for I feel my mother is in the car with us, laughing and deciding what her new nickname will be.

Blessings, C.

Custom Pieces for Marcia

2010-06-26T15:10:00.000-04:00

Here are two custom pendants I have made this week. Marcia brought these two stones to me a few weeks ago while I was at the Farmers Market. She looked at my pieces for sale and picked out the style she wanted and then I took them home and wrapped them for her.

If you have a special stone or bead I can wrap it in silver too and create a unique piece just for you. Depending on the size and style I can incorporate it into a pendant, like Marcia's, or a bracelet, necklace, ring or earrings. I love to do custom work. I am starting a custom gallery on my website, come and check it out.

And thank you to Marcia, I enjoyed making these so much.

A Freshly Baked Day

2010-06-18T10:43:00.001-04:00

Good morning All! I have been busy this morning, I am baking scones! I love scones and decided to make some and sell them at the Farmer's Market in the morning. But it going to be a hot day, and I have places to go, so I got up and started baking first thing. The house smells delicious and the scones are cooling.

This will be a short post today, because I am heading up north to Carmel for a private lesson. I love to teach and private lessons are fun because I can teach one on one and go creatively where the student wants to go. So off to Carmel I go...

But I leave you with a picture of my baking, come tomorrow morning and try a scone, Yummy!
Blessings to All. C.

Come to see my Glass at the Market!

2010-06-16T16:05:00.000-04:00

Here is a picture of a pendant I made; it is opaque green, and two dichroic glass pieces under a clear glass cap. Every time I take a piece out of the kiln I am surprised, this piece did not disappoint!

I will be at the Farmers' Market here in Columbus on Saturday. Come and see my new creations, I have wrapped a few of these beauties in silver and they are so fantastic!

Columbus Farmers' Market, 6th and Washington Streets, Columbus, IN Saturdays, June - September, 9:00am to 12:30

This Saturday at the market we will have fresh flower bouquets, strawberry blossom honey, fresh herbs, and locally grown produce including spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, red beets, radishes, green onions, sugar peas, cherries, tomatoes, cabbage, and potatoes. Wonderful artists will be there with hand-woven baskets, soaps, photographs, jewelry and more. Wonderful sausage sandwiches, fresh bread and delightful baked goods will be available. Live music will be the talented Kendall Yeaton Duo and Quick Said the Bird.

Check out the website for more information: www.columbusfarmersmarket.org

Fusing Glass - My Newest Project

2010-06-15T08:55:00.000-04:00

I love glass. I have lots of glass, bottles, bowls, a collection of violin bottles, and lots and lots of glass beads. My grandmother collected glass and so did my mother. The violin bottle collection was started by my grandmother long before I was born.

The idea of glass fascinates me, it starts as sand and is melted at high temperatures and then when cooled you have glass. When lighting hits a sandy beach it will leave behind a molten spot that becomes a beautiful glass sculpture. Glass even in it hard state is still fluid, but the only thing harder than glass is a diamond. As I said, glass fascinates me!

I have started to fused glass in a very small kiln. I take pieces of glass different colors and shapes, stack them, and then put them into the kiln. While in the kiln, at very high temperatures, the glass melts and when cooled I have a new piece of glass. The process fascinates me every time! Look for my new pieces in my online shop at http://www.timeandsand.com/

I have started making the glass that I wrap, oh how cool is that!

I Have Missed You

2010-06-14T09:29:00.000-04:00

Sorry, my friends I have been gone for too long. Sometimes life takes you somewhere, you think is going to improve things, and sometimes it does and sometimes it makes you realize you are fine right where you were.

That has happened to me. In April, I made a change in daytime jobs, going from part-time to full-time. I thought this was the time to make this move. The kids are teenagers now, don't need me around all the time and I was thinking it was time to work more and make a little more green (in dollars not grass).

I was wrong, I admit it, I was very wrong. The children still need me around, not as close as I needed to be when they were little, but I am needed in the vicinity. And a little more green, that would be great, but not working for someone else.

I am back at home in my little studio and it feels good, really good. What will tomorrow bring? I do not know, but I am so glad to be back home!

A saga in Web Design

2010-04-15T04:02:00.001-04:00

It has been quiet on the Blog front for the past couple of weeks. Because I have been building my own website!

A few months ago I finally got a website up; it was created from my Etsy site. I loved the look and that I finally had my own official website, but working with it was difficult and I am not a webmaster, so I ended up being frustrated and stuck with a site I could not update easily.

This brings me to my opening sentence, a new website! That I am building, easily and on my own! So here it is: http://www.timeandsand.webs.com/note: it will be living at my usual web address http://www.timeandsand.com/ soon (I am in the process of transferring my domain name) once that is complete my new, built by my own hands site will be in its proper place.

How did this happen? Where can I make my own website? you may ask ... I was looking for local baker here in Columbus, Lana, of Cakes for all Occasions, she has a new shop and I found her on the web at http://www.freewebs.com/cakesforalloccasions/ By the way she makes fantastic cakes, cupcakes and more! Yummy! I have gotten sidetracked, back to the website story; I liked her site and noticed that it was a free site. So I asked her about it and she said it was easy and free!

So I went to the hosting site, which is now http://www.webs.com/ and checked it out. It was easy, I am paying a small monthly fee because I need a more substantial web store, but I have been working on it for less than a week and it is up and I love it!

So if you need a website check them out. And those of us who do not have the skills or the time to learn a new skill set, it is straightforward, simple and fun! Cool Beans.

So now that my site is up I am back to creating. So keep on creating and I will see you soon, Blessings, C.

A wonder filled and blessed Holy Week!

2010-04-05T10:14:00.001-04:00

A Happy & Blessed Easter to All!

What a blessed Holy Week we had! As noted in my last post I was ill last week, but my recovery was quick and I was able to attend 4 of the 5 services our church holds during Holy Week. I find this week to be such an incredible journey every year.

We start the week's services with Palm Sunday, this service begins our journey at the moment Jesus enters Jerusalem on a young donkey to triumphant shouts of Hosanna, Jesus King of the Jews!

Then on Holy Thursday, or Maundy Thursday the service takes us to the night of the Last Supper and when Jesus washes the feet of the disciples. At the end of this service the altar is stripped and we leave in silence. This year I did miss this service, but was back on my feet for our services on Friday.

Friday's services take us to the betrayal of Jesus, his arrest, Peter's denial, Jesus’ crucifixion and death on the cross. This is a somber service, and leaves me reflective, Jesus’ obedience to go knowingly to cross for our sins. God loves me/you so much that he gave his only son, so that we may have eternal life!

On Saturday evening, at sundown, 8:10 here in Indiana this year, we arrive at the church, we gather outside for the Easter Vigil. Following the Jewish custom of the day starting at sundown, Easter has arrived! Pastor begins the service, marking the Paschal candle and then lights it from a fire, we then pass the light on to each other's candles singing, "Within our Darkest Night", the Men's chorus enters first and lines the entry hall into the sanctuary, we pass through this amazing hallway of deep voices singing along with them, they with their candles light the way, as we pass through with our candles, we enter a darkened Sanctuary and continuing to sing. And the Pastor states "Jesus Has Risen Indeed!" and we reply "He Has Indeed!" This is a momentums occasion for me every year!

Then on Easter morning in our bright spring dresses, the little girls in their new bonnets, and the men, even the teenage boys in the best clothes, gather in the fellowship hall for a breakfast. The Youth Group makes pancakes and sausage; everyone brings coffee cakes and treats. We join for food, fun and fellowship. The older children (Jr & Sr. High) who have hidden eggs the day before take the younger children out for a egg hunt and everyone visits, laughs, and has a great time. I bask in this church family I have been a part of for the past 13 Easter mornings.

Holy Week has come to an end, Christ has gone to the Cross, Died, is Buried and now Risen Again! I am exhausted, elated and illuminated once more! This is the beginning of the Easter season which began Easter morning and goes 50 days until the day of Pentecost.

Christ Has Risen! He Has Risen Indeed!
Blessings! C

Been Awhile My Friends

2010-04-01T15:27:00.000-04:00

Looking at the date of my last post it has been awhile, my friends. We have gotten back from vacation, dreams of the ocean, dolphins and ships bells in the corners of my mind ... OK they are getting shoved by the day to day, but I am determined to let the memories linger.

We have come back to the busiest time for a church working couple, Holy Week, a blessed week with many services and wonderful opportunities to worship, fellowship sing and rejoice in our Lord, the Savior, and Jesus Christ. For us it brings lots of calls, duties and many priorities to manage (ours and our congregations). Someone on staff always gets sick; this year I am the first. :-(

Of course, this would be the year that I finally get up the nerve to join the Choir for Holy Week services, have practiced for the last 4 weeks and gotten over my singing in public phobia, and tonight I will not be there. My voice is gone and I am still with fever, I do not want to share my illness, so I will stay home. Fortunately, Holy Week at Grace Lutheran has many services, so I am going to lay low and hope to sing with the choir tomorrow night or on Easter Morn.

I am also, gearing up for the 2010 jewelry season, so there is much to do. There now is a calendar on my blog so that you can see what, when and where the jewelry gal is! This weekend, on Saturday, I will be found in the lobby of Hobby Lobby, here in Columbus, demonstrating jewelry making, hoping to sign people up for my classes at Hobby Lobby. See my calendar for the types and dates of my April classes, I will finalize May classes soon.

I am now officially doing a show in April (at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indy), in May (Brown County Spring Blossom Arts Fair) and shows in June, August and Sept. are in the works. And yes, for the locals I will be found most Saturday mornings at the Farmers' Market here in Columbus and will be at the 12 Dames Craft Show in November.

Whew! I am winded just writing about it all. And of course, don't forget my wonderful kids and husband I am sure they will be adding to the joys of my hectic life.

Dreaming of sandy beaches, drinks and Mexican Cake! Keep on creating!

Blessings, C.

Our last day at the Beach

2010-03-19T10:00:00.001-04:00

Well, all vacations have to come to an end and ours is there, sadly. What a fabulous week we have had, dolphins, birds, ocean, kites, boats and glorious food! This is our last full day here, we check out at 10am tomorrow morning, so we are heading back to the beach, eating at the Taco Boy one more time. And then we will be starting the trek home tomorrow.

I have much to do when I get home, shows to get ready for, custom orders to finish and oh yeah, unpacking and getting back to my life.

It has been a wonderful respite and "if I had a million dollars, I would buy you a house on the beach”!

Blessings, C.

Happy St. Patrick's Day !

2010-03-17T21:04:00.000-04:00

We are still on vacation, but no pictures today, the camera ran out of battery. So left the camera at home and told the kids that this day was to be a memory only day! What great memories, we took a marsh boat tour with our guide Anton DuMars of Tideline Tours www.tidelinetours.com . He was a great source of information, we had a fantastic time!

Saw lots of dolphins, even a mother with her baby, so cute just about 3 feet long, many birds, pelicans, cormorants and more. We stopped on a sandbar and beach combed for shells and found some sand dollars and met some lovely little birds, which took off in unison, and flew in a group, like a school of fish in the sky. Lots of memories!

Well is it St. Patrick's Day so I leave you with a picture of green. My "Green with Envy Ring". Blessings to all. C.

Watching the Dolphins go By

2010-03-16T09:51:00.001-04:00

Sitting here, watching the dolphins go by. I can see the river from my bed; I'm propped up, writing and watching the river. And I realize that happy isn't giddy it is being content with the here and now. I am happy, don't care what the day brings, living in this moment. My guys are on the deck drinking coffee and juice, chatting and watching the water, my daughter is moving about in the condo and I am at peace, with my computer, coffee and a glorious view! Contentment, just pure of the moment contentment.

We spent most of the day on the beach yesterday; it was a beautiful spring day. OK the locals are still calling this winter weather, it only reached 70 degrees, but for those of us who have left, Indiana, Wisconsin and Massachusetts it is glorious warmth and well worth the drive!

We bought some kites and flew them, searched the beach for shells and starfish. We took very long walks and got lots of sun yesterday. So today is starting out quieter... no plans just hanging with my homies!

Blessings, C.

Another Day at the Beach

2010-03-15T08:23:00.000-04:00

It is morning, I am the only one awake so far, have watched the sunrise over the river and can hear the pelicans and seagulls looking for their breakfast.

We had a fantastic day yesterday. Took in the town, had fantastic food at the Crab Shack, strolled through an art fair, walked out onto the marsh and checked out the fishing pier.

In the winter I write about missing the snow, but now I realize that I miss the beach too. Need to find a place where it snows like crazy in the winter and I can get my beach fix too!

When we decided to visit South Carolina (Russell and I lived here for a few months in 1991) all Russell could talk about was having a bucket of steamed oysters, well yesterday, he got his fix; his own bucket of oysters for lunch. Yum!

Having a wonderful time, and I am beading in the evenings, what more could I ask for? Nothing.
Blessings, C.

At the Beach!

2010-03-14T10:47:00.000-04:00

We are on Vacation! This post will be short, 'cause we are going to explore the island today, but here is a picture off of our porch. It is beautiful here and I am feeling my body relaxing as I type. Will post more later, Blessings, C.

I Need a Vacation, We need a Vacation!

2010-03-10T12:03:00.003-05:00

A few months ago we planned our first family only vacation. While in a family meeting discussing the possibilities, where we would go, when we would go and how we would go my son stated our situation in the best and most succinct terms. "You mean, we are not going to a family holiday, visit dying family or dead family this vacation?!" Children are so direct!

He was right, the last vacation where we just were together, really relaxing and enjoying each other was in 2004! So we are packing up, piling in the car and heading to Folly Beach, South Carolina. Folly Beach is a barrier island off of the Charleston River and we are looking forward to marshland tours, sailing, and fishing and for me, putting my feet in the ocean once more! I was able to find some interesting local attractions and travel information from Discounthotels.com. They had some pretty great hotel discounts, and fun family vacations ideas! Who knew?

All week, one of us has said at least once a day, I need a vacation, can we leave now?! No but we can in 52 hours and 32 minutes and 6 seconds, but then again who's counting :-)

Blessings, to all, c.

A Collaboration with Clayhappy

2010-03-08T11:50:00.001-05:00

I spend a lot of time looking for objects, stones, beads, glass, china pieces, etc to wrap. And often I check out my fellow Etsy artists. I have purchased hand cut stones, and beads often on Etsy ( www.etsy.com ).

A few weeks ago I stumbled upon an amazing polymer clay artist. Polymer clay is one of my favorite mediums, I worked in polymer for about 8 years, and then I took a artistic hiatus when my children were born. When the kids were toddlers, polymer clay work, which includes the use of surgical blades, seemed a bit dangerous around the house. So I moved on to a new medium, lots and lots of wire! Not sure that has always been kid friendly, but there have been no wire injuries!

Back to my discovery! Jeanette aka clayhappy, she creates the most beautiful, bright, gloriously happy polymer pendants (see photo at left). They were a burst of fresh spring air on a cold February day. So I sent here a message immediately, expressing my delight in her work and she responded in kind. So I asked her to make me a couple with no holes (holes are a wrapper's enemy, ok strong word, a wrapper's frustration). She agreed to do so, and a few days ago they arrived in the mail. Stupendous! Supercallifragilisticexpialidocious! By George, I think she’s got it!

I wrapped one immediately, and I mean immediately, took the package directly to the studio, ripped open the envelope and started picking out the wire! So much fun! And here is my contribution to the collaboration. I am currently working on a necklace to compliment the beautiful colors, and will post it soon. But I had to share this wonderful work with you. Jeanette's use of color and attention to my request, made a perfect piece to wrap. It is as smooth as a polished rock and has the most glorious shine; I can't wait to show the finished piece to customers, I think these will be the hit of my Spring Season.

To look at more of ClayHappy's work go to www.clayhapppy.etsy.com her beautiful pendants are incredibly reasonably priced and the work is impeccable. And if you want me to wrap one, let me know, I will arrange for her to make one in your colors, and I will wrap in for you!

Many thanks to Jeanette for making these beautiful things, it has made my week!

Blessings to all and happy creating! C.

Getting Ready for My Class Today

2010-03-06T08:24:00.001-05:00

Getting ready for my jewelry making class today, I will be teaching the basics of how to wrap a stone or bead with sterling silver wire to make a pendant.

This is a fun class; I remember when I took a similar class five years ago. The mystery of "how they do that" was revealed! And I was so excited; I went home and made pendant after pendant. I got so many compliments and many said to me,” How did you do that?"

Here is picture of one of my early pendants. This is olive jade wrapped in 14G filled wire, I was just starting to work with twisting the wire in sections here. I liked the look of the wires crossing the stone and have incorporated this ever since.

And the second photo is one of my newer pieces made last year. I have grown in my ability in 5 years, but it all began with a class in a bead shop.

So I hope that I will be able to inspire today, the beginning of a passion in others.

Blessings, C.

New Class Schedule, New Class Location!

2010-03-04T14:50:00.001-05:00

I am finally back on track! that is the teaching track. Last Fall I taught some classes at Beads de Colores, a beadshop, here in Columbus. Everyone had a blast, but scheduling classes there is difficult and I have been looking for a new location.

And now there are two ways of taking a class!

#1) You can take attend a class. I am now teaching a variety of classes at Hobby Lobby, here in Columubs, Indiana. Each class has no more than 6-8 students and all supplies are included and tools are provided.

My class schedule is listed at Hobby Lobby, on my facebook page http://www.facebook.com/timeandsand?v=app_2344061033&ref=profile#!/group.php?gid=82325638217 and I list the classes in my Etsy shop where you can purchase a space and register online http://www.timeandsandclasses.etsy.com/

#2) You can host a class! at your home, (a large dinning room table is all we need), at your place of business, or at a Art Club etc. The costs can be divided up between the students and I will travel to you, if I need overnight accomdations, I will stay with a host family to save money. It can be a beginning jewelry wire wrapping class, or a weekend event with a variety of techniques taught. Call me and we can talk turkey, or jewelry classes :-)

Currently, I have the following classes scheduled at Hobby Lobby's classroom, at National & Taylor Rds, Columbus, IN and have openings:

Saturday, March 6th - Wrapped Cabochon Pendant - from 3:30-5:30pm

Tuesday, March 23rd - Gold & Silver Bangle Bracelet - from 5:00-8:00pm

Saturday March 27th - Galaxy Ring Class - from 3:30-5:30pm

So look for more classes in April, and I will post that information as soon as times and dates are confirmed. Hope you can come and join me. We always have lots of fun!!!

Blessings, C.

Share the Love ... Introducing Julia Hutchins Designs

2010-03-02T21:45:00.000-05:00

This week's Featured Artisan on Share the Love is Julia Hutchins Designs. Julia creates beautiful treasures! Stop by and see them all!

Shop URL
http://juhutch.artfire.com/
2nd Shop URL
http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/juliahutchinsdesigns
3rd Shop URL
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=18953
Website URL
http://www.juliahutchins.com/
Blog URL
http://www.juliahutchins.com/blog1/

Found a Useful Tool for Pricing Jewelry

2010-02-22T18:38:00.002-05:00

Pricing seems to be one of the hardest things for any artist, how do you convert your supplies, ideas, design and effort into a viable cost to the consumer. Many artists undersell themselves, they only consider their hard costs, such as beads, wire, clasps in the case of a jewelry maker and do not consider the investment in tools, time, packaging, etc.

I often have a quandary as to the price I should put on a piece, I want to be fairly compensated, but at the same time I have to be aware of what the marketplace will bear, or I will have allot of jewelry piling up here at home with no place to go.

Living in the Midwest, I learned early that my pricing is quite different than on the east coast. When I have taken pieces to Maine, while visiting my mother, everyone is quite surprised by the lost cost of my work; the market there can easily allow me to increase my prices 50-75%! So often on the internet, my work sells well, in California, New York and Florida, for them my Midwest pricing seems like a deal and living in the Midwest allows me to price my work more reasonably.

I am always looking for ways to price efficiently and with confidence that I am charging enough to cover all my costs, including my time. While looking for Jewelry Inventory systems, I found a Jewelry Pricing Calculator. It is a small program from a larger jewelry costing, inventory system, that you can download and give a try. I found it very useful, and in fact, am considering the whole system as my business gets bigger. Keeping records manually is getting too time consuming and is taking away from my creative time.

Here is the link: check it out and give it a try! http://www.beading-software.com/blog/free-stuff/jewelry-pricing-calculator-software/ (note this is a simple program and does not save the information of each piece for the future).

Also, for $5.00 you can download a spreadsheet, by Eni Oken a very successful artisan who makes & sells jewelry and tutorials. http://www.enioken.com/jewelry/pricecalc.html

The second one is much more robust and if I don't purchase the complete inventory software package I will probably download Eni's. I have purchased many tutorials from her and have always been completely satisfied!

Happy creating! Blessings, C.

Olympic Hockey May Have Me Sleeping on the Couch!

2010-02-21T23:40:00.002-05:00

As I stated in my last blog post, my husband is Canadian. And that means my husband loves hockey, played hockey as a child, play in a hockey league when I met him in Toronto and is hockey. Here in Indiana we don't have a NHL team, so he is hockey deprived. So the Olympics allow him to watch lots and lots of hockey and give him a hockey fix. And he can root for his roots! Go Canada!

So this evening, we came home in time to watch the Canada vs. USA game. Serious stuff! I could root for whom I wanted, I opted out of taking sides, because I love hockey and I learned to love hockey from Canadians, but the American's have not beaten the Canadian's in Olympic hockey since 1960, the year I was born!

So I kept quiet and worked on the computer, watching out of the corner of my eye to see the American's victory over the Canadians! Woo Hoot! We won!!! All right, I did take sides :-)
OK I may be sleeping on the couch, but the Canadians need to let us win at least once every 50 years!!! Actually we played well, but the star of the game was our goalie. Here's to anyone who can stand, in front of the goal, with enough pads to equip a small football team and have pucks (very hard rubber disk the size of a hamburger ) come at him at speeds up to a 100 miles an hour. So here is to Ryan Miller, great work! You can come over and stand between my children in the sibling rivalry forays and deflect for me!

Here is to the American team, Hurray! Hurray! Hurray!

Off to get my pillow, and find a spot on the couch with the dog. Sleep tight and blessings to all. C.

This Weeks Share the Love Artisan - Gabs Bags

2010-02-21T14:51:00.000-05:00

http://gabsbags.artfire.com/

Gabrielle is the owner/designer behind Gabs Bags! Beautiful and orignal fashion creations! You can find Gabs Bags at:

http://gabsbags.etsy.com/
http://gabsbags.ning.com/

Also you can read her blog at
http://www.apassionforbags.com/

Every 4 years its Canada vs. US in our House!

2010-02-20T23:22:00.000-05:00

I am an American married to a Canadian. Usually there are no heritage wars here, ok war is a bit harsh. But at the time of the Olympics, usually the winter Olympics we get very patriotic. And sometimes its hard to figure out which country to root for. I like Canadians, I married one! And I of course like Americans, I am one.

I like to root for the underdog, so often I am rooting for Canada, but during the winter Olympics, especially this year. Canada is doing well. So it will be interesting to see what we do when US is up against Canada for a gold, who will root for who?

But right now we are watching Curling! Britain vs. Canada, I am rooting for Canada. At the same time I am missing this wonderful sport. I learned to curl in Canada and had lots of fun playing on a few leagues. But Curling is not a sport anyone does here in the heartland, Indiana. So once every four years, I lament on the loss of Curling during the Olympics, it is the only time I get to watch it (we have survivor cable) and I haven't played in 20 years! And still remember letting go of the stone and watching it glide down the ice to the button (if I was lucky). I wasn't the best player, but it was fun and people of all ages can curl.

So here is a picture of Curling, just in case you think I am talking about hair! :-)

Ladies' Night Out - February 26th - Columbus, IN

2010-02-17T23:27:00.000-05:00

I am one of the vendors at this event, come out and see me! I will have new, never seen, pieces and will be demonstrating wire wrapping techniques and have discounts, give aways and door prizes!

Here is the scoop!

Winter blues? Come have some fun at a Ladies' Night Out! There will be prizes, foods, massages and more. These events are FREE, so bring your friends and family to enjoy.

Come join us at our Ladies' Night Out experience at Harrison College! Experience free seated chair massages, samples of food and sweets, a fashion show, make up consultation, guest speakers, organization tips and more. There will be door prizes for which everyone is eligible and special prizes for mothers and daughters that come together.

The next Ladies’ Night out is Friday, February 26th, Friday

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Harrison College, 2222 Poshard Road,Columbus, IN

1. Lemleys' Catering (food and marshmallow samples)
2. Harrison College
3. Dr. Leah Jackman-Wheitner (short presentation on women's issues)
4. Zen Spaces (short presentation on organization)
5. Vickie Hildreth Massage (free seated massages)
6. Smith Winery (free wine samples)
7. Time and Sand (demonstrations and try your hand at jewelry making)
9. Thirty-One Gifts
10. Tastefully Simple (free samples)
11. Lia Sophia
12. Locketts Ladies Shop (fashion show)
13. Mary Kay (samples and makeup consultation)
14. Taulman Chiropractic (computer spine alignment evaluations)
15. Cameo Room (parafin hand dips and hair consultations)
16. Not Just Popcorn ( popcorn samples)
17 Maddox Entertainment (emceeing and presenting of door prizes)
18. Memory DVDs
19. Pampered Chef
You can follow at Ladies' Night Out of Facebook (this is a monthly event) at Ladies' Night Out in Columbus Facebook Page

This Week's Share the Love Featured Artisan

2010-02-15T22:34:00.002-05:00

This weeks Featured Artisan is Julie from Creations with Heart! Beautiful creations made by a beautiful lady!

You can find Creations with Heart at:

http://creationswithheart.artfire.com
http://creationswithheart.etsy.com
http://creationswithheart.com
http://creationswithheart.blogspot.com
>

Share The Love Featured Artisan: Braggin' Rights Bath

2010-02-14T10:13:00.000-05:00

This week I am starting a new feature, all of the Share the Love Featured Artisans are on On Fire for Handmade and they are wonderful, friendly, special people I have come to know. Check out my first feature of these artists today - Traci\y of Braggin' Rights

This weeks featured artisan is Tracy - owner of Braggin' Rights Bath. This is her new venue... wonderful yummy bath products..Tracy also has a shop called

Braggin' Rights filled with wonderful handmade gifts. You can find Tracy at:

MadeitMyself

Art Fire

Etsy

She also has 2 blogs... Uses for Stuff Braggin Rights Finds http://www.usesforstuff.blogspot.com/ and http://www.bragginrightsfinds.blogspot.com/
Stop by and see all her wonderful creations!!

Snow on the Way ... Thinking of warm days in the sun.

2010-02-06T09:31:00.000-05:00

We are waiting for a snow storm, the kid's are home from school. And I am recovering from a chest cold. So trying not to suck into the vortex of the winter blahs, I have been online looking at beach houses for our spring break vacation.

I know that many people go away on Spring Break, or on vacation any time of the year, but this family has not been on a vacation for years! When the kids were small, Russell was a student so money was tight; we went on short camping trips on long weekends. During the last 3-4 years we have used our vacation time to visit my parents during their illnesses and when they were dying and for their funerals. So the idea of a week at the beach is making everyone here giddy!

We are heading to Folly Beach, South Carolina which is just south of Charleston. We have a condo for the week and are just a short walk from the beach!

Russell and I lived on Fripp Island, SC the year we were married. We were married in an antebellum house in Beaufort, and spent six months riding our bikes through the marsh to the beach; it was an idyllic time for us. So we are very excited to show the children the area!

So today, a snowy winter day, we are dreaming of days on the beach, past ones and future ones!

5th Anniversary Continues with a Bracelet Give Away!

2010-01-29T15:29:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post was about Time and Sand and it's 5th Birthday. (See previous post) Check it out because you can still save 25% on your next purchase (this offer is good for one purchase only) but has no expiration date!

I am having different specials and give aways each month in 2010. So keep checking, I will annouce them here, on my mailing list (email me at carrie@timeandsand.com to sign up), on Facebook and Twitter.

And today's is a Give Away! Drum roll please .........

Today's give away is the bracelet above, to the 5th person to send me an email with a link to their favorite piece on my new website! Please feel free to pass this on to your friends, the more the merrier! I will be having give aways, contest and discounts or the next month!

Time and Sand is Five Years Old Today!

2010-01-28T08:00:00.009-05:00

Time and Sand is now 5 years old! I love it so much and it has been so rewarding. To celebrate this wonderful event we are offering our friends, family and customers a special discount. We will give you 25% off of your next purchase from our website. http://www.timeandsand.com/

Simply go and wander through our different product lines, send a list of products desired to carrie@timeandsand.com and I will email you an adjusted invoice with a 25% discount. You can pay this invoice through Paypal or you can use your credit card.
This is our way of thanking you for your support over the years, without the encouragement of my friends and family, Time and Sand may have never gotten off the ground and without my wonderful clients Time and Sand would not be celebrating 5 years!

And here is to 5 more fun and exciting years, and another, and another ...

Thanks to all! I am having a blast. Blessings! C.

Admissions of a Stringing Snob

2010-01-27T22:02:00.002-05:00

I often take my 12-year-old daughter to shows that I do. She makes jewelry, handbags, and delightful baby tees, which sell really well, often faster than my "fine" art.

Last year at an Art Show, I had a bad experience with one of the organizers. On the 3rd day of the show, about 2 hours after opening, a organizer came and told me that I had to take down Hannah's baby tee's and handbags because they weren't on the application, I had a copy of the application with me and showed her that they had been included, thinking that would be the end of that. But she stated that because Hannah's t-shirts weren't handmade (the shirts themselves) that they were excluded and I had to take them down. I thanked her for squelching my 11 year old's artistic endeavors and took them down. I was not happy! And in my mind I thought Art Snob!

It got me to thinking ... do I help or squelch artistic endeavors of those who are not at the level I am? I teach, I encourage and help people out often. One of my favorite sites is www.jewelrylessons.com because it helps people to grow in their craft aptitude. But I kept thinking...

Stringing beads, that's how all this got started, oh so many years ago. As a 3 or 4 year old I strung my first necklace, macaroni I had colored with tempera paints, then strung on a piece of yarn for my mother. I was hooked! And jewelry making became a passion for me.

I have strung many a necklace, bracelet and anklet in my day. As I grew as an artist I began to make my own beads in polymer clay, stringing them to my hearts content. Then I grew more as an artist and started working with stones, glass and gems. Clay beads became a thing of my past. Then 5 years ago I began to work with wire, another growth spurt for my artistic side and stringing became a thing of the past too.

And I rarely stringing anything these days, I make my own chains and usually links make up my bracelets. Oh no, I have to say "Yes, I admit it I am a stringing snob". Stringing for me was a stepping-stone to more complicated things, so I left it behind. Until last summer…
My first year, at the Farmer's Market I was asked by many a child looking longingly at my sparkling jewelry, "is there anything here, just for me?" The answer was no, most parents are not going to invest in sterling silver or 14K gold for their 3 year old, whose interest may be passing or may lose it just down the street. These little faces of disappointment have stayed with me.

So, this year at the Farmer's Market I create a very successful line of children's jewelry "Just for Me Designs". Many a night last summer of was spent stringing bright colors in my past medium of polymer clay on stretchy cord for small wrists. Stringing is just as fun as when I made that first necklace.

So "Just for Me Designs" is the answer to the questions asked of many a little girl that first year. And the answer is yes, these are just for you! And maybe just maybe a few little girls will string a macaroni necklace for Mommy, and then the jewelry journey for them will begin.

And to those grown ups that have discovered their passion by stringing beads; yesterday, last week, last year or years ago, first my apologies for becoming a stringing snob. And second, my best wishes to you! Welcome to an amazing journey. May your journey be as delightful as mine is and has been!

Blessings to All! C.

For those Who Have Just Come In - Welcome!

2010-01-23T13:54:00.001-05:00

Hi, I am a wrapper that can't rap! I create handcrafted jewelry by wrapping sterling silver wire in new a fun ways.

During a lengthy illness a few years ago, my wonderful and thoughtful hubby purchased some practice wire and a wire wrapping book for me to do while sitting in my recliner (for six weeks!).

I found my voice in this art form and Time and Sand Jewelry was born. I sell my jewelry online, at art shows and am in a few shops.

I would appreciate comments and ideas, always looking for new ideas and constructive criticism, remember I said constructive!

I work with my children also, Zac's company is Zac's Zoaps, he makes wonderfully soothing and creamy natural soaps, and Hannah, who is the ultimate animal lover, has Mutt's Amore, freshly baked healthy treats for dogs.

All of our creative endeavors can be found at http://www.timeandsand.com

Blessings. C.

The New Website is Up!

2010-01-21T09:00:00.001-05:00

I am still in recovering mode, I have had some slight complications after surgery, nothing serious, just uncomfortable. So here I sit, holding still. Very still, this seems to be the best thing for me right now.

I am very grateful for the internet and my laptop. Instead of watching wasteland TV, I have been working on our new website. And I happy and eleated to say, The new and improved Davies Family online shop and website is up and running! Yea!!!

One can now see and purchase all of the wonderful things that my family and I create, my jewelry, Zac's soaps, Hannah's natural & healthy dog treats, and Russell's art too, in one place!
So here it is! Time and Sand Jewelry & Gifts

Please check it out! and I will continue to sit quietly and post items, FB my friends and work on the website, wishing you all a wonderful and blessed Thursday! C.

I'm Back ... Did ya miss me ?

2010-01-19T18:46:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the long silence. After putting up the goal of posting 200 days this year, my kidney decided to up the ante! I had surgery last Monday to remove a kidney stone that would not pass on its own and was not eligible to be smashed up with lipotripsy. So I am on the mend, doing quite well, but I did miss a few days, ok 7 to be exact, but I am not discouraged, by posting on three weekends I can make up the missed posts. So I call your raise, you kidney you!

I have been working on things that haven't required much movement. Been going through some great jewelry books, looking at quilting books and getting allot of sleep. I love craft and art books, I love leafing through them and seeing the imaginations of other's on their pages.

Here are some links to some places I meandered to on the web. Yes I probably surfed more on the web this past week than I have in months.

I love to find free patterns: this one is for an educational learn to dress toy snake, a great idea for a little one or a gift at a baby shower http://sewing.about.com/od/babyshowergiftsewing/ss/toysnake_4.htm

And for the quilter: here is a beautiful dragonfly pattern, I am always looking for dragonfly things, as I am not the best quilter, thought I would share it for those who are http://www.virginiaquilter.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/online-store/scstore/p-DRGFLYGRDN.html?E+scstore

Goodnite, and blessings to all. C.

Take Your Best Shot

2010-01-12T18:10:00.001-05:00

Today was a beautiful sunny, be it cold, day here in southern Indiana. I am recovering from surgery (had a kidney stone removed) so I am moving kind of slow. With the sun streaming in the windows and my laid back status; it seemed to be a perfect day for photography.

When I first started to sell jewelry it didn't occur to me that I would have to become a photographer too. But anyone who sells online has learned that great pictures are the beginning of great sales. My husband, a trained photographer, took my pictures originally. But a new position, four years ago, took that luxury away from me.

So I began the journey on the road to better photography. I have learned so many things along the way. First I needed a camera that could take super close shots in crisp clarity. It is important with jewelry for the customer to see the details. I purchased an Olympus D535, it has a great super close focus, I can get within an inch away from my pieces. This is great for super tiny earrings and the details.

Also, lighting is very important. After trying a light box, and photo daylight quality bulbs, I prefer natural sunlight. I have the advantage that my studio is a glassed-in front porch and when the sun shines, my studio table is bathed in beautiful natural light.

The biggest issue for me is movement, I find it hard to hold still, so a small tripod was purchased and now most of my shots are in focus. And I have become very discerning, if a shot is not just right, I delete it and try again.

And I will confirm that as I have become a better photographer, my sales have also increased. So to those just starting out, keep taking shot after shot, don't get discouraged and find someone with strong photography skills to give you tips.

You can use a professional, but be warned that it will cut into your profit margin. Another great idea is to find a photographer who will barter with you. Getting your best shots (for show juries and such) buy trading some of your product is a great thing.

Hope this has given you some ideas, and I leave you with some of my favorite product shots that I have taken.

Blessings. C.

Bittersweet Custom Heirloom

2010-01-10T23:07:00.001-05:00

I have been making custom pieces for many years now and I enjoy it, most of the time. Sometimes I procastinate, but I find the more confident I become in my work the less I procrastinate. Each custom order has its own story, each customer brings their own story and each piece creates its own story. See my post from June 7, 2009 A Custom Order to Perfection for more about the process of custom orders good and bad.

Often the order comes in and I don't learn much about who is going to receive it. But sometimes, especially with my family tree pendant orders I learn about the woman that will receive it or give it. I feel so honored to create a heirloom for these mothers, sisters, aunts, and grandmothers. I have made one for a great-grandmother's 90th Christmas, for a sister's 40th birthday and many, many more.

A few weeks before Christmas I received an order from Sharon, a woman about my age living in California who wanted me to make five pendants with the birthstones of her and her 4 sisters. They had just learned that their oldest sister had terminal cancer and Sharon wanted to give a family pendant to each of her sisters for what would probably be their last Christmas together.

This story touched my heart. Having lost loved ones to cancer, I knew that moment that they were at, the news was there and they were trying take it in and time was short. It was a big order and I took it on with honor, I worked hard and each piece was as identical to the other as I could make them, a difficult task each piece usually takes on a personality of its own. Feeling wonderful about my work, I sent them off and felt satified that I had done the best I could.

A few days later I received an email from Sharon,

Carrie,
I came home after a very long day at work to find that the pendants were delivered in today's mail! They are just beautiful--even more so in person than I imagined. I can't wait to give them to my sisters this weekend and I know we will all cherish each of them as a beloved keepsake for years to come. Your heart is clearly in your work! Thank you so much for doing such a lovely job, for the great customer service and for your warmth and humanity. Happy holidays!
Sharon

I cannot explain how much this meant to me, this is my goal with each piece. I imagine that my jewelry will be passed down from generation to generation and become family heirlooms. I am so touched when someone lets me in their story, shares their joy, sorrow, pain and happiness. Sharon thank you so much for allowing me to be part of your story and for my jewelry to be a heirloom in yours.

Blessings, C.

Walking in the Snow

2010-01-07T21:19:00.000-05:00

As much of the country, here in Indiana it has gotten very cold. It is currently a brisk 12 degrees F here and about 3 degrees with the wind chill, brrr!

We have gotten about 5 inches of snow so far, but a few more inches are predicted for this evening. The kids were home from school today, so we worked on our rooms. I tidied my studio and Hannah worked on her room. She has moved into a new bed (a double sized waterbed) so she and her friend took down her "Princess Bed" and she has given it to friend's of ours who have a three-year old. Seems just yesterday, we bought it from a friend whose daughter had outgrown it for our four-year old. Time does fly!

I just got back in from a walk in the snowy dark and am settling for the evening, going to finish my custom work on the table and call it a night.

I leave you with pictures from my walk and will post again tomorrow. It's a studio day, woo hoo!

Sleepless in Indiana ? !

2010-01-06T08:43:00.002-05:00

Good morning! Typewritten that looks so much more chipper than I feel. It has been a week of lousy sleeping and by Wednesday, I am starting look like Dorian Gray's picture. Don't want this post to be a whine so I will explain quickly to those who don't know the story, those that do, hang on, the blog will get on with it soon.

I have health issues, I don't like to say that, let alone put it in writing, but it is the case. I am a diabetic and have a digestion system that does not like working on a regular basis, kind of a vagrant belly. And the kicker, my right kidney likes to produce stones like a jellybean factory; only there is nothing sweet about kidney stones. At the moment I have a kidney stone that is giving me lots of sleepless nights. Thanks, just what I wanted (note Sheldon this is sarcasm!). So that is the scoop on my sleepless week.

So as I sit here trying to find my good attitude and planning out my day. I wonder what will today bring? Will know that answer .... Tomorrow.

The first thing I know is I am going to my worktable and start making jewelry, that always brings out the best in me. So to all of you I wish a good and blessed day! C.

On Etsy Mom Team Blog!

2010-01-05T02:20:00.000-05:00

I am so excited, I am featured on the Etsy Moms Team Blog ! This is my first feature spot on this blog, I have been an Etsy seller since 2005 and on the Etsy Moms Team for about 2 years.

Thanks to Alice for the callout and for letting me know. I am delighted!

Starting on the Auntie's Beads Piece Today

2010-01-02T22:23:00.000-05:00

As many of you know I have been asked to create a piece for Auntie's Beads. Today is the day, I have looked at my beads, and have a mental picture in my head now to translate that into a piece. Actually when I looked at the beads, two pieces emerged from the stash.

For the first piece I will be using the following beads.

For the second piece I am planning to use the following beads:

Monday is my studio day, so check back and I will post pictures of my work in progress! Have a great Sunday, Blessings to All! See you Monday, C.

2010 a New Year and a New Year's Challenge

2010-01-01T14:47:00.000-05:00

First all, a Happy and Blessed New Year to All! Thank you to all that read my blog, follow my Facebook page, and to all of my customers and students! Your appreciation of what I do and have to say means so very much to me.

When I started to blog in June, 2008 I was apprehensive; about writing, have never felt writing to be one of my strong suits; about finding the time my life is very hectic (just read past post and you'll see what I mean), about being interesting enough to have anyone want to read.

But mostly that June day I worried about being too down in the dumps for the outside world, I had just lost my mother less than three months prior and my father 14 months before that, and life was really hard for me. So I wrote about it, and it helped, I wrote about my work, my life and my thoughts and it helped. Though in 2008 I only managed to post 8 times, I was hooked and vowed to do better, well in 2009 I posted 66 times a 800% improvement!

So it is now 2010, I am strong, at peace and living life, as my parents would want me to. Taking on each day and doing my best with what I am handed.

So on to the challenge, I want to write more! I want to create more! I am planning to be a blogging, jewelry making, church working, home keeping, child care giver, wifely, teaching, learning, woman! I have been honing my skills and now it’s on!

I have accepted the, be it my own, challenge of blogging over 200 days this year! Tripling my input of last year! That would be the equivalent of doing it as a full-time job, once a day, five days a week. So here is the first of many!

Enjoy, come along with me and see where I end up in December of 2010!

Blessings to all. C.

Boxing Day!

2009-12-26T09:27:00.002-05:00

Boxing Day is a traditional British holiday. There are many ideas about boxing day. When I am explaining it to someone unfamiliar, the first thing I say is that it has nothing to do with sports! But I have had images of people boxing in the streets dressed in their new Christmas attire, or that it became a holiday as people stood in line to return their boxed gifts (but of course, that is a modern tradition, returning items I mean).

I have been told that it had to do with the Boxer Revolution, or that it was when all of England gathered their boxes from Christmas and burned them in the town square, a box bonfire! I like the image of families gathering their discarded gift boxes and trudging them down to the square to stand with their neighbors and sing songs as the boxes burn, kinda of a Whoville circle of crazy Englishmen burning boxes and singing about the coming of the Lord! I know my imagination runs amuck.

I became more familiar with Boxing Day while living in Canada. Its true origins come from medieval England when the day after Christmas the Lord's of the manor would take boxes containing seeds and items for the next growing season to the surfs. I am sure that the lowly surfs looked forward to this day when they would receive a box that would contain the necessities for sustenance for another year in the fields. I wonder if the family gathered anxiously awaiting the Lord's visit anticipating the contents of the now infamous box of Boxing Day.

Our Boxing Day traditions are much more laid back, in the morning (like now it is 8:30am on Boxing Day) our house is quiet. As I slowly type this, others are sleeping in (a luxury here) or reading quietly, sipping on coffee or hot chocolate. We tend to hang out and play new games or try on new clothing. It’s a very laid back Holiday, no preparations, no cooking (it’s leftover day), no hype, just quiet togetherness.

Chatting is big on the list. We talk about the New Year and the fresh ideas that it brings. I often use this time to start looking at the jewelry business, reviewing the last year and making or adjusting goals for the New Year.

Thanks to my many loyal customers and many new ones this year, this has been my best so far. I have learned a lot this year, working more on my marketing and customer service this year (my Boxing day goal set last year) has reaped benefits.

I have done more custom work, including bridal sets, bridal party jewelry and of course, my family pendant which has been very well received and I love making each one! The idea of creating heirlooms for generations (something I so want my pieces to become) has become clearer this year. So creatively and also, financially this has been my best year so far! Thank you, thank you, thank you! To all that support me (my family, my friends, my loyal customers and my future customers) I could not have done it without you and for that I am totally and completely grateful!

So I am asking you for input, let me know what you think, any ideas for marketing, selling, creating, I am always so appreciative, because creativity does not happen in a vacuum and I love the challenge of making someone else's dream, wish, thoughts come true in jewelry!

This afternoon we will head over the to Grandma's house to have our Traditional Boxing Day, each will receive a fun gift and we will have a fantastic meal and then head home late in the evening, with full tummies and happy warm thoughts in our heads.

To you all, I wish a lovely, happy, blessed Boxing Day! C.

Time and Sand Has Gift Certificates for your Last Minute Shopping

2009-12-09T15:46:00.001-05:00

Recently I was asked if I sold Gift Certificates, "I replied not at the moment, but what a great idea!" Jewelry can be a wonderfully personal gift,

But it can be tricky, it what you think may be just the right piece for someone, may completely miss the mark. In our house we call that "a gift of yellow".

When I was young, a relative of mine, gave me the most beautiful gifts, hats, purses and stunning outfits, I loved them except one thing, she always picked the color yellow, bright bold yellow, light summery yellow. Only I can't pull yellow off, I have very pale skin and blonde hair and put yellow on me and I look like death not warmed over! Yellow, which I think is a great color, is not for me. So finally with my mother's support, I bravely told this relative "I love your gifts, but unfortunately I do not look well (I mean I look actually sick) in yellow, it is not the color for me." Her grateful reply was, "thank you! I thought all blondes would look good in yellow, what color does look good on you?" And the gifts from this wonderful, thoughtful woman started to come in blues, and purples and greens! My favorites.

So the expression "A Gift of Yellow" was born! We were never to look a gift horse or Aunt in the mouth, but we were allowed to trade the gift among ourselves with whom it suited better.

And I am sure that this is where the tradition of gift certificates began; with wonderful long distance relatives who want to acknowledge their nieces, nephews, and grandchildren and hit the mark at the same time.

So I have joined in! You can now purchase gift certificates to my online shop www.timeandsand.etsy.com so that your gift recipient can pick out their own style of handmade jewelry, or order a custom piece made just for them.

To purchase a Gift Certificate simply go to www.timeandsand.etsy.com where I have certificates in denominations of $10, $25, $50, $75 and $100. Purchase it and follow the directions in the listing and I will send a gift certificate to you or the intended recipient, toot sweet! You can also email me at carrie@timeandsand.com if you want a different amount or want to pick up a hard copy gift certificate to stick in a stocking or two!

I know that my wonderful gift-giving relative would have loved the idea! It will fit, it will be the right color, and her original goal of giving a loving gift would be accomplished with style!

Blessings to All. C.

My Beads are Here! My Beads are Here!

2009-12-04T11:55:00.001-05:00

My last post, I told of a wonderful email from Clint at Auntie Beads, (see Life's a Lemonade Stand). Well I have picked out my beads and they have arrived! I am so excited to get started, so I am working very hard to clear out all my custom orders. This task is almost done.

So tomorrow I will start my creative process and will post about it as I go along. I plan to take you along as I consider what I will do with the beads and post pics of my creative process.

Here is the first picture, the beads as they arrived.

So Stay Posted, more to come ...

Blessings to All! C.

Life's a Lemonade Stand

2009-11-25T10:52:00.004-05:00

Sometimes life hands you lemons, but sometimes life hands you the lemonade! On Monday I got a wonderful pitcher of life lemonade, thanks to Clint from Auntie's Beads! I received an email from him wondering if I might be interested in making a jewelry design using Auntie's Beads products for a post on A Wrapper's View. They would give me my choice of beads (up to a certain dollar amount) from their site and mail them to me! All they were asking in return would be a link on my blog and to the appropriate categories of where the materials are located on their site. Would I be interested?! Does a bear ... in the woods, do geese fly south? Of course, I'm interested, where do I sign up!

So Tuesday evening I spent a wonderful 2+ hours in their web store, dreaming to my hearts desire and putting those beads that tickled my fancy into my cart. A beader's dream for sure! I have picked out the following: (Note: you can click on the links and see my choices)

Blue Agate Tumbled Nugget Bead Strand, 16mm

Lampwork Oval Focal Bead/Pendant, Blue with Copper Swirls, 15 x 29mm

Mother of Pearl Teardrop Pendant with Resin Coating, Silver, 30 x 45mm

Cloudy Agate Puffed Coin Pendant, 40mm

Brown Granite Jasper Round Bead Strand, 8mm

Sterling Silver Rounded Square Toggle with Etching, 15mm

Czech Glass Pinch Bicone Strand, Matte Topaz AB, 4mm

Czech Glass Pinch Bicone Strand, Topaz/Copper, 4mm

Czech Glass Picasso Oval Bead Strand, Capri Blue, 14 x 19mm

Czech Glass Cube Strand, Luster Opaque Navy, 4m

Sky Blue Jade Round Bead Strand, 6mm

Once my beads arrive, I will take a before picture, so keep a look out, then I will post in progress photos, and of course the final finished project. My mind is swirling with the possibilities and I have an idea at the moment, but who knows, sometimes the beads and wire voice their own ideas when I get started.

So here is to life’s lemonade!

Please tuned in and I will chat again soon, now that my show season is over. I never book shows after Thanksgiving, this time is for my family, my church, and my readers. Thanks for hanging in with me during a very hectic October & November show season!

Blessings to All! C.

Introducing ...

2009-11-06T09:34:00.005-05:00

I am down with flu like symptoms, no it is not the H1N1 (Hinney Flu as my friend has named it). But I am not feeling very energetic so I thought today would be a good day to post an interview from one of my fellow iCraft sellers.

I have been selling on iCraft since last March and I really like the site, if you are local you can purchase online and arrange local pick-up (no shipping charges) right on the site.

So with no further ado here is the interview of Lisa, who has the shop Ensorcelled Minds. She is from Mississauga, Ontario, which you may or may not know is where I lived from 1982-1989 and where I met Russell (my husband) so I am thrilled to throw the spot light on an artist from Canada!

I love her quilled dragon, I think I must have one!

Tell us about yourself…bio 150-200 words

My name is Lisa and I live in Ontario, Canada. I'm a Chartered Accountant by trade but a paper crafter by passion! I love nature and animals so I recycle and compost to to make up for my paper addiction! When I was little, I used to draw paper dolls, cover them in clear tape and then cut them out. Then I could draw the clothes and tape them on but still be able to get them off without any trouble! I took a fashion design course in highschool, only to discover I am completely inept with fabrics! The patterned papers of today actually take their cues from the fashion trends of the day and even come in several textures. So, my primary addiction to paper also serves as a fashion surrogate! (My second love is writing.)

Tell us about your shop.
Ensorcelled Minds Inc. is an expressive paper arts company that offers greeting cards and other paper art for scrap booking all handmade *from scraps to smiles*. Some of the die cuts are designed by me on the computer and cut out with my digital cutter! To "ensorcell" means to "hypnotize by means of socercy". That's exactly how I am when I'm in my studio creating!

How did you get started?
I wanted to do something charitable with my life. A family friend volunteers at the a foodbank. Another asks for donations to charity for her Christmas presents. I wanted to align myself with some greater purpose too! Not having the shedule to accomodate fostering or adopting an animal, I decided to support charities who do. I approached a charity to teach card making classes where half the proceeds go to the charity and half to the materials. Excess materials and design ideas end up in my shop! I branched in to die cuts... just because it's fun!

What is your favorite item in your shop

Easy. http://icraft.ca/product-15732.php?forced=creator

What’s your favourite _____________ that you have ever made
See above.

Whats your most memorable sale.
I got a custom order through my website http://www.ensorcelledminds.com
It was for 45 christening invitations... in AUSTRALIA! The card was a quilled angel bear (similar to the one on my website). Next thing I knew, it blossomed into 55 invitations and 55 reply cards too! I was so proud of me. Plus the client was a dream: super organized, knew what she wanted, left me PLENTY of lead time and even sent me pictures of the family and, later, the event.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
Sometimes it's just my imagination. Sometimes it's from sketch challenge blogs. (One fine day, I will actual do the challenge and submit instead of being just a blog troll...)

Tell us about a favorite designer.
Don't really have one...

What's your favorite color.
Blue.

What's your favorite room at home? Why is it your favorite?
My studio! My generous husband let me have a whole room and helped me put all my Ikea furniture together! My mother and father-in-law went shopping with me and packed their vehicle to the hilt to fit all the furniture. (I am blessed to have such wonderful people in my life.) My room is my sanctuary. It is painted with a calm colour and has lots of natural light.

Do you have a tip you'd like to share with readers?
When designing with scrapbook paper, take the manufacturer's cues! Match your papers with the colours in the pattern. Double sided paper is a natural match! No work!

What are your (up to 5) favorite magazine(s), and or book(s).
Do comic books count? When I was a teen, I adored X-Men and Wolverine comics. That died out some time ago, but I still have them all boxed up in my closet!

What do you do to relax and unwind?
I love music, movies, and video games. My favourite movies are action and sci-fi and also animated movies. Being as shy as I am, I am surprised how much fun playing Rockband is with my husband! We also play online MMORPG's together (Massive Multi-Player Online Role Playing Games). It started out with EverQuest I and II and now we play World of Warcraft.

Monday, Monday ...

2009-11-02T10:35:00.008-05:00

Mondays have, in the past, been a good day for me. I used to get up energetic and ready to face the new week. Ready for the possibilities, intrigue and excitement of what was to come.

This is not how Monday's work for me at the moment. Monday, Monday, you just can't trust that day; Monday, Monday, sometimes it just turns out that way, from the Mamas & the Papas has become my theme song, as I wake up slowly, often cranky on Monday mornings.

There many factors in my sad change of attitude, our schedule is so hectic. We try to slow things down, but with a preteen and a teenager, marching band, volleyball, church youth activities (two different groups at the moment), very people oriented jobs, church staff responsibilities (sometimes 7 days a week), church activities, family businesses, running a household, dogs, and more (whew!), we find ourselves juggling schedules, cars, children, cell phones, and dropping a thing or two along the way. My current memory issues are not helping the situation either.

For many this sounds all too familiar, our situation is not an unusual one in today's society. We are aware of our choices and how they affect us. We try to make good choices, but it seems that when Monday comes around, I am already overwhelmed with the responsibilities, schedules and lack of order here. And I am not the only one, everyone in the family is struggling with laundry that doesn't get done, groceries that needed to get picked up, details that need attention and that ever increasing list invades our thoughts most of the time.

How do I/we cure the Monday blues that I am so definitely ill with? I try to look at each new day as a starting place to make changes and accomplish things in a more orderly fashion. The urgent takes over, often before I put my feet on the ground. "Mom/Dad, I can't find (fill in the blank), "Mom/Dad, we are out of" (fill in the blank), “Carrie, did you remember to” (fill in the blank) fills the air. And then my Monday blues begin to take over my positive attitude and I feel the energy draining out of me and onto the floor.

This post you will find is not one with the answers. I don't have them yet, but I am definitely in search of them, and those individuals who are on the same quest. Often it takes a different point of view to find what was staring you right in the face all the time. My ability to find the shirt, pants, phone etc, which a child has looked for forever, in a minute or two, is a prime example. I will point out that often that same child can find my keys faster that I can yell, "I will never find my keys!”

So I invite you to offer your point of view, your struggles, your suggestions, what works for you and what has not. Together I know that we can find a way back to that Monday full of excitement, anticipation, energy and great possibilities.

To start things off, here is a link to a blog that I found called "Growing Happiness". I like that idea, happiness is something I can plant, water, tend to and grow! 20 Ideas to Beat the Monday Blues is a great list of things that you can implement to help. Remember these are suggestions, and take it slow, trying to change all overnight (one of my issues) does not help chase away the blues, and it just brings them back faster!

Best wishes to all who endeavor to grow more content, and my blessings to all! C.

What I am doing on Halloween

2009-10-30T09:42:00.004-04:00

As the Director of Outreach and Care at Grace Lutheran Church, I get to lots of fun things, this weekend is no exception. Our Fellowship committee is hosting a Trunk-n-Treat Saturday night. We will be handing out candy, hot cider and cookies to all the goblins, princesses and pirates and anyone else in costume and their parents or grandparents (you get the idea, if you come you'll get a treat but no trick!). This is our first year and we are hoping for a good turn out. The decorations are ready, the candy is bought, cider in the the fridge and hoping for clear weather!

I am trying to put together a costume, I might be a football referee, or a Maine lobster man, or maybe a princess. I'll post pictures and you can see what I decided.

If you are in the Columbus, Indiana area on Saturday night, come and see us!

Saturday, October31,2009
Time:	5:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:	Grace Lutheran Church Parking Lot
Street:	3201 Central Avenue
City/Town:	Columbus, IN

Happy Haunting! C.

My Work Table is Calling Me

2009-10-27T19:59:00.006-04:00

As many of you, who follow my ramblings, know Mondays and Fridays are set aside as my days to work in the studio. I work part-time as the Director of Outreach and Care at our church Tuesday through Thursday, Saturday's are filled with chores, errands, Band competitions and more than I dare mention here. And Sunday is church in the morning, getting the laundry done and resting in the afternoon, before it starts all over again on Monday.

So today is Tuesday. Sadly not a studio day, but my work bench is calling me. The boxes of beads, the coils of wire and my tools laying quietly on the bench are calling my name.

I so intently love my life, my children, my husband, my work, my friends, all that keeps me busy and as I so often say, out of trouble. But finding time to create is difficult, especially this time of year when many of my studio days are filled with christmas/holiday orders. Repeating patterns and making rings and bracelets so much like the others in the custom work pile, doesn't leave me feeling very creative.

And my mind, and my work table agree it is time to create those pictures that I have been carrying in my head, seeing in my dreams and doodling on napkins, back of envelopes and on pads of paper during meetings.

So I will end this posting early and attend to the calling of my work bench, it's only 8pm, I could a few hours in before I need to fall into bed. So long my friends, if you need me I will be in my studio.

Blessings to All! C.

Fall in Our Neighborhood

2009-10-26T16:58:00.008-04:00

On the way home today, in the car, I assigned tasks to my 15 year old son and 12 year old daughter. Zac was to mow the lawn, for hopefully the last time this season and Hannah was to dust the living and dinning rooms. The chore was received well by Hannah, but Zac was not to pleased and did not keep this to himself well.

Zac and I have been having typical 15 year old and mom stand-offs these days and sometimes I feel like I sound like a broken record, "pick up your laundry, feed the dogs, did you do your homework, take out the trash" on a loop, coming out of my mouth. And he does not always receive these requests with pleasure, often with a loud sigh or roll of the eyes, and often the request is not completed until I have lost my cool and gone to the threatening side of motherhood. Not my favorite side of motherhood at all!

So as we approached the house, it was obvious that mowing the front lawn would be impeded by all the leaves that have fallen today. Hannah asked if she could rake instead of dusting and I saw an opportunity to get two outside jobs done at the same time. So off she went happily raking leaves!

Zac did not approach his chore with such gusto and sat in the living room petting the dog. So I put on my strict voice and said "go and mow the lawn now" (almost at the threatening side of motherhood, not quite) and he went off, not happily, but a few moments later the mower was going.

So much to my surprise, when I went to investigate why the mower had suddenly stopped, I found Zac organizing Hannah and some smaller neighborhood children to rake not only our front lawn, but the neighbors too. And he cleaned off the porch too. So now I have a mowed lawn, a raked lawn and a tidy porch! Thank you Zac, Hannah, and the neighborhood children!

and I am enjoying Zac's changed attitude, which of course, changed mine!

I so love when life gives you not what you expect, but a surprise!

29th Year of the 12 Dames of Christmas Show!

2009-10-26T09:56:00.004-04:00

This is the 29th year of the Tweleve Dames of Christmas Show, to be held Saturday, November 14th, from 8am to 3pm, at Sandy Hook Methodist Church, Taylor Road, Columbus, IN.

The Tweleve Dames of Christmas began simply in 1980 by 12 women who wanted to showcase their talents and sell their crafts. Originally held in their homes this annual christmas craft show has grown and now is held at in the gym of Sandy Hook Methodist Church.

This year there will be 15 "dames" , though these days there are a few Dudes as well! You will find works from:

The Davies Family with jewelry, collage art, soaps, healthy dog treats) and Cup Cakes!

Bill Griffith, with beautiful turned wood items, bowls (incredible), pens and more.

Schaeffer's Bread

Cookies, Baskets and More.

Bonita Hall with Christmas florals, Stitchery, pictures, and wreaths

Linda Steele with beautiful totes, bears, stockings made with vintage fabrics

Carol Morris with delicious candy!

Reena Oltman with intricate counted cross stitch.

Greg & Karen Nichter with lovely Wood ornaments and red works

Judy Perkins with her wonderful photography and tasty biscotti.

Cathy & Ruth Shrayer with their fantastic baskets, and wicker items (too many great things to mention)

Darla Parmer with painted wood and wreaths.

Jan Mahoney with her delightful snowmen, Santa's & wreaths

Debbie Deyo with great gift baskets

and Cindy Gommel with sewn items (bags, baby blankets, etc)

Come and support local artists, enjoy a fun event and get some holiday shopping done too!

Working on a New Class Schedule

2009-10-14T08:01:00.003-04:00

I am currently working on a new class schedule. I will be offering a basic stringing class, my Galaxy Ring class, A free form wrapping class, my Gold & Silver Bangle class and a cabochon wrapping class.

All classes will be at Bead De Colores, 911 Washington Street, Columbus, IN

Look for my schedule online, in my Events on Facebook, and you can pick-up a calender of classes at Beads De Colores.

Not only can you follow my blog, I have a Time and Sand Fan page on Facebook. Click here to become my fan!

Opened a New Shop on Etsy

2009-10-13T17:17:00.007-04:00

Fall for me brings a sense of nesting, many people think of cleaning up and sorting as a Spring activity, there comes the term "Spring Cleaning". But I tend to sort, clear and clean up in the Spring and the Fall.

As the cool weather comes upon us, I getting ready for a sort of hibernation, and that brings a new look at the house and how best to make it better for the winter and cozy for cold weather.

Thus, I am "Fall Cleaning" and I have gotten to my studio. My studio is a pleasant but not abundant size. At one time it was our glassed in front porch and it is 7 1/2 feet wide by 15 feet long. And at the moment, it is more than cozy! During the summer selling season it becomes a dumping zone for displays, product, and more than one project on the go.

So I have begun to accumulate items that I am not going to use, that are either brand-new (ideas that didn't come to fruition), or gently used and still have lots of life in them. Mostly craft supplies, beads, tools, findings and the like. To give them a new home I have opened a new shop on Etsy. My Beads are Your Beads will be my de-stash shop. You can check out my items at www.mybeadsyourbeads.etsy.com and also you can see my progress here in the studio as my shop gets full, my studio will have more space. So stop by the shop online and help with my "Fall Cleaning" and find some items for your inspiration and some things to do during the cold winter months.!

Birthday Sale Held Over!

2009-10-08T20:37:00.005-04:00

Due to my unexpected trip to Maine last weekend, I was not able to post too many new items. So my Birthday Sale has been extended until October 15th! All items listed from September 27th - October 11th will be 20-25% off until October 15th. Happy Birthday to me and you!

BIRTHDAY SALE - In honor of my 49th, yes I did actually put down in writting! 49th! Scary! I am having a sale this week - items listed this week Sept 27 - Oct. 3 (EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 15th!) will be at a 20-25% discount.
This is your opportunity to get a special gift for someone, or yourself and saving a little green!

Check out my shop at www.timeandsand.etsy.com

Just a few examples of my items on sale!

Took a Road Trip!

2009-10-07T09:52:00.008-04:00

My girlfriend and I decided Wednesday night, in what seemed an instant, to get up Thursday morning and drive to Cape Elizabeth, Maine to retrieve a family heirloom! The trip was over 1,000 miles each way and we had to be back by Sunday evening at the latest.

It was an amazing gift to me from my girlfriend, Kathie, who was willing to drive so far on such short notice. Also I was touched by the willingness of her family, husband Josh especially and of course, my husband and children to have us both gone so quickly. There didn't seem to be any question in their minds, the desk needed to have a home here and we needed to get it!

Thank you to all who helped me along the way.

To, Tina, my niece, who offered her place as our first stop and made up beds on her couch for us. We arrived late in the night to hugs and warm beds to collapse in! Spent the morning catching up and then in the truck and off we went! To Teresa who stopped by to visit one last time, the morning we left.

To my brother Michael, who was so loving and calm when I called crying, the morning we were leaving Mom's house for what will be the last time as it is sold. To Shannon (Michael's wife) who made us dinner, and birthday cake for me on Saturday. To my other brother, Eric and his wife, Lisa who came over to see me at a moments notice.

All in all is was a great, emotional, fun, exhausting trip. And I am grateful to be home with my wonderful family and friends!

Sorting - the Stuff of Life - Relationships

2009-10-05T11:30:00.010-04:00

I am currently up to my eyeballs in things! I have just returned from a trip to Maine to retrieve my grandmother's writing desk. Boxes, the desk, my duffel, sleeping bags and various other things are piled in the dinning room.

This has brought me to an interesting thought moment, are the things that we and other's collect in our lives important? are they part of the memories or should the memories suffice? Are they just clutter or something to cherish?

My mother moved many times in her life and she was very organized, she purged regularly and only kept items that had a usefulness, or were something to cherish a loved one no longer here, or a part of her children's lives that had been and she wanted to remember. So when it came to going through her belongings I thought it would be an easy (in the actual physical sorting process, not the emotional process) process to complete.

This did not end up as a weekend task with her things to the right person or in the right place, as we (she & I) had worked toward. Although she had meticulously gone through things, asked us what we wanted, and recorded all of our answers, there were many questions about her intentions and wishes (a very important point to all of us) to many things that we or she had not thought of.

Example: Should the hammer and pliers, that always were in the jar that propped open the door to the kitchen, be kept by me or should that be passed on to someone else, or kept at all? Some in the family have thought of this as a cut and dried process, "does anyone want this" is proclaimed to one and hopefully all have heard and then if not, it is eliminated from the pile.

But as the second eldest and the only daughter, I have felt the desire to help family members heal, by dealing with issues they could not or passing along items that they wanted. I have stepped into the motherly shoes, as big as they are. This has lead to my feeling more like a thing processor than a mourning daughter.

So with the end of the possession sort in sight, with the retrieval of my grandmother's desk from Maine last weekend. (It is now 18 months since her death.) There is the realization that the relationships that resulted from her life are so much more important. And I am now struggling with the people who are not able or interested in having a relationship with me any longer. I miss her so very much and the connections to others that she brought to me.

Sitting with my brothers this weekend surrounded by their wonderful wives and children and spending time with my niece also, I know that this is the stuff that life is made of, the tears, the laughter, jokes and closeness that my mother made possible by her presence in all of our lives.

For this I will always be grateful and feel the blessings of the mother I miss so terribly.

My 49th Year

2009-09-27T10:33:00.001-04:00

BIRTHDAY SALE - In honor of my 49th, yes I did actually put down in writting! 49th! Scary! I am having a sale this week - items listed this week Sept 27 - Oct. 3 will be at a 20-25% discount.
This is your opportunity to get a special gift for someone, or yourself and saving a little green
Check out my shop at www.timeandsand.etsy.com

Getting Ready for Fountain Square Art Fair!

2009-09-14T10:17:00.009-04:00

We are all busy as bees, getting ready for the Fountain Square Art Fair this Saturday in Indianapolis. All four of the Davies creations will be available for purchase.

Three of the Davies will be there, Zac has a Marching Band competition. So he will not be there, but Zac's Zoaps will be with new scents and new soaps. A great new soap is his Duck Ponds. They make great stocking stuffers and are available with lots of different style ducks, princess ducks, army ducks, beach ducks, fiesta ducks, etc.

Hannah will be there with her Mutt Grub (homemade dog treats) and Mutt Scrub (homemade dog soap). She is getting some help from her grandma this week as she has school and volley ball, but there should be plenty to go around.

And I will have my jewelry, lots of new children's pieces and lots of new pieces for the big girls!

Russell is hoping to have a few more pieces finished this week, so his collection of collage three-dimensional pieces will be there too!

Come check us out at booth #5, we will be an the stage end, one row in!

Here’s the skinny:

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Fountain Square Art Fair—10:00am-6:00pm. Some of Indiana’s hippest artists and artisans gather for a fun and light-hearted show. WICR Entertainment Stage keeps you groovin’ all day! In the parking lot at Morris and Shelby St's. Public parking at the Teamsters on Shelby across the street from Bud’s Supermarket.

Also going on in the same area at the same time is:

Masterpiece in a Day—the venerable day-long art competition turns13. Come see artists by the bucketful using our fair village as inspiration for creating art right here on the spot. Judging is in the late afternoon and winners get some big moolah! Many of the FSAF artists will be competing from their booths. Brought to you by Big Car Gallery.

Wheeler Arts Community Open House—4:00pm -10:00pm. The artists of the Wheeler open their studios to you. Roam around the cool building, check out how the artists live and work, enjoy some yummies and brew and music!

Octoberfesti—2 of ‘em! Deano’s Vino on the corner at the fountain will have theirs, complete with music beginning at 6:00. And the Rooftop Garden, high atop the Fountain Square Theater Building has theirs, complete with the best sunset views of downtown…in town!Come early. Stay late. Bring friends.

Hope to see you there! Blessings c.

New! Family Tree Pendants

2009-09-09T08:55:00.006-04:00

Here is my newest creation, Family Tree Pendants.

This pendant is a wonderful gift for the women in your life. Your mother, sister, aunt or grandmother will love this personalize. custom necklace with the birthstones of their loved ones. It is made of fine sterling silver with swarvoski crystals on a sterling chain. Each pendant is individually made with up to 10 birthstones and comes on a 18" sterling silver chain. Also, you can have one made in someone's favorite colors. The combinations are endless. You can now order this from my Etsy shop at http://www.timeandsand.etsy.com

I am so enjoying making these, each one is different and I love that it is a special way for women to show their families off!

Blessings to All! C.

The Davies Family Will be at the Fountain Square Art Fair

2009-09-01T10:28:00.006-04:00

We are very excited to announce that all four of the Davies' will be at the Fountain Square Art Fair on September 19th. You will find my jewelry, Zac's soaps, Hannah's homemade dog treats and Russell decoupage birdhouses.

Here’s the skinny:

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Also going on in the same area at the same time is:

Hope to see you there! Blessings c.

Classes in September

2009-08-31T07:25:00.003-04:00

It is all set! I am now teaching classes at Beads De Colores here in Columbus. Eddie, the owner of Beads De Colores, and I have been talking about doing classes together for a long time. We have gotten together and I now have three classes scheduled in September.

All classes will be held at Beads De Colores, 911 Washington Street, Columbus, IN.

You can register in person at Beads De Colores (payment is due upon registration), or you can register on my website http://www.timeandsand.com/, or by phone (with a credit card) at (812) 603-1721.

The first class is on Saturday,September 12 from 2-4 pm. In this class you will learn to make my sterling silver & 14K gold-filled bangle bracelet. You will receive hands on instruction while you make your first bracelet and a lesson handout with photos to take with you. There are 6 spaces in this class and currently there are 3 available. The class fee is $35.00

My second class is on September 23, from 6-8pm. at. In this class you will learn to make my Galaxy Ring. You will receive hands on instruction while you make your first ring and a lesson handout with photos to take with you. There are 8 spaces available in this class. The class fee is $25.00

My third class is on September 28, from 6-9pm. In this class you will learn to make my sterling silver Wrapped Cabochon Pendant. You will receive hands on instruction while you make your first pendant and a lesson handout with photos to take with you. There are 8 spaces available in this class. The class fee is $30.00

Supplies are additional to class fee and you can purchase them at Beads de Colores prior to the class (come 20-30 minutes early to do so).Pre-registration is required cancellations must be received 72 hours prior to the class in order to receive a credit for the full value of the class. Less than 72 hours notice will result in forfeiture of class fees. If a class is cancelled by either myself or Beads De Colores, a refund will promptly be made.

I really excited about teaching again, I have always enjoyed it and have fond memories of teaching classes at ArtColumbus.

Blessings to All! C.

What on this Weekend

2009-08-20T08:15:00.003-04:00

I will zip past my usual, can't believe how long its been since my last post and on to our current events.

This weekend I will have a booth at the WAMM Fest in Greenwood, WAMM stands for Wine, Art, Music & Microbrewery. It is this Saturday, August 22nd at Craig Park in Greenwood from 10am - 8pm. Lots of food, fun, music, wine, brew and great art! check their website for more information http://www.wammfest.com/

Russell, Zac and Hannah will be manning our Farmer's Market booth (Sat am 9-12) at 6th & Washington Sts and then coming up to meet me for the afternoon.

We will have fresh dog biscuits, pupcakes and lots of Zac's Zoap at the Market. All of my jewelry will be with me in Greenwood. Look for my jewelry to return to market on August 29th, hopefully though there will be less of it :-)

So off to the studio to put the final touches on things and get packed. Blessings to All! C.

The Creative Juices are Flowing

2009-07-22T15:53:00.007-04:00

Due to back problems, time issues and not feeling that creative, I have not made many new pieces. But that is changing! As of today! Here are two new pendants that I made in the past few days

I am currently working on beading necklaces to go with these pendants. I usually make the pendant and let the customer use their own chains, but I have seen some pendants with complimentary necklaces and I like the look. So I will post pics when they are complete.

Back to the studio, blessings to all, "chat" with you tomorrow. C.

A Very Busy Summer

2009-07-20T08:14:00.003-04:00

Talking with some of my friends at church yesterday, the main topic was the speed at which the summer was passing by. Everyone agreed that it has zoomed by. Those of you in regions that school starts after labor day may not feel it so much yet, but here in the heartland we return to school in less than a month! I just get the feeling that I am getting in the swing of summer and the back to school sales start! Totally not ready to see summer end.

We have had a hectic, busy, and extremely fun summer. We do the local farmer's market every Saturday am as a family and we have been very successful this year. The weather has been mostly cooperative and the family has enjoyed the time together.

Both of the kids are in 4-H. Hannah completed 7 projects (photography, foods, food preservation, sewing, consumer clothing, collections, and fashion revue) bringing home 3 blue ribbons, 1 blue honor, reserve champion in consumer clothing and champion in the fashion revue sewing category. Zac only did one project this year (he is in marching band and that has consumed most of his summer) Barbeque in which is got a blue for his pork chop and a champion for his rib eye steak. Both were very pleased with their achievements and we ended the season with a picnic at the barbeque contest!

Our summer has included my upper back seizing and my first trip to a chiropractor, Zac broke his wrist and spent the first half of band practice in a cast, which came off just in time for band camp. But the good has outweighed the bad. Russell's father had been very ill and he is recovering now and improving everyday (and has a good prognosis). We have had lots of family get togethers, lots of church activities, spent time with good friends and Russell and I have even found time to be together all by ourselves!

I hope that you all have had/are having a good summer and I wish you all well. It is my plan to blog more consistently now that my back is much improved and I can tolerate typing! So keep tuned to this station to hear about my newest projects, tutorials, upcoming classes and more!

Blessings to All!

Patti's Dragonflies are Done!

2009-06-19T23:58:00.004-04:00

It has been awhile since my last post. Things have been more hectic than usual around here. Zac broke his wrist just after my last writing, between doctor appointments, summer band, marching band, 4-H projects, work at the church and working on a huge custom order I have had no time to think let alone write.

I have completed the dragonfly pendant's for Patti's bridal party. And I am so pleased with them. It has been a wonderful project, things have gone fairly smoothly and I am really like the end result.

Let me know what you think. Blessings to All! C.

A Custom Order to Perfection

2009-06-07T08:00:00.007-04:00

Custom orders can be a dicey thing. Ask any artist who does or has done custom work. You have to take the vision in someone else head and transfer it to your work. What you come up with may or may not be anything like the customer's vision.

I do a lot of custom work. I enjoy the challenge of getting it right. I ask a lot of questions of the client. Color swatches, style preferences and I ask personal info, what that person likes to do, what they don't like, I try to climb in their mind and see from their eyes, just what they are hoping for.

I have a great success rate with custom pieces. Most often the person is impressed that I transferred their drawing, description, or vague ideas into "just what I wanted". A gift that I am most grateful for.

I have had negative experiences, customers with whom I have missed the mark. Usually it is a fine tuning after the prototype is made. (Note - I have learned to always make a prototype, if possible, before committing fine metals to the job) Colors may be slightly off or shape not exactly what the client wanted.

But only once have I completely missed the mark and I mean completely! It was my first really big custom order, a $400 (retail) necklace and earring set for the Mother of the Bride. I drew pictures, we looked at bead catalogs and discussed the piece. Her request was outside of what I normally do. I told her that and she still wanted me to do the piece. During my working on the piece my mother died, so the work took longer than it should have. The client was completely disappointed, though I thought I had hit the mark, and I reworked the piece, again and again. Finally, we agreed that I could not recreate what was in her head. We parted ways. Such a disappointment I felt terrible!

Now we can only learn from our mistakes, I learned not to agree to do something I have never done before and also my prototype and approval process came from this experience. I hope that I never miss the mark so badly again.

So to the good news! Yesterday I had the best experience with a custom order that I have ever had. Patti asked me to make a dragonfly pendant for her bridesmaids (sisters & nieces) in honor of her mother who passed in 2000. When she came to approve the final version, she was moved to tears and thanked me for doing such a wonderful job with her request. She ordered 5 pieces for her bridal party! Later she called and let me know that her mother's best friend wanted her to have one also, please add another large pendant to the order. The large order is wonderful, but the incredible satisfaction to meet the emotional needs of a bride whose mother cannot be at her side on her big day is the best thing ever!

So here is Patti's Dragonfly Pendant!

To all who do custom work, go on ya, and to those who order remember we artists who take your challenge want so much to create your vision, but we do have our own voice which you heard and that's why you wanted us to work on your piece in the first place. If both sides work together each custom experience can be wonderful all involved!

Blessings to all! C.

Just Stringing Along ...

2009-05-27T09:22:00.006-04:00

Stringing beads. That's how this all got started, oh so many years ago. As a 3 or 4 year old I strung my first necklace, macaroni I had colored with tempera paints, then strung on a piece of yarn for my mother. I was hooked! and jewelry making became a passion for me.

I have strung many a necklace, bracelet and anklet in my day. As I grew as an artist I began to make my own beads in polymer clay, stringing them to my hearts content. Then I grew more as an artist and started working with stones, glass and gems. Clay beads became a thing of my past. Then 5 years ago I began to work with wire, another growth spurt for my artistic side and stringing became a thing of the past too.

And I have found out I am a stringing snob rarely stringing anything, I make my own chains and usually links make up my bracelets. Yes I admit it I am a stringing snob. Stringing for me was a stepping stone to more complicated things , so I left it behind. Until now.

Last year at the Farmer's Market I was asked by many a child looking longingly at my sparkling jewelry, "is there anything here, just for me?" The answer was no, most parents are not going to invest in sterling silver or 14K gold for their 3 year old, whose interest may be passing or may lose it just down the street. These little faces of disappointment have stayed with me.

So, this year at the Farmer's Market I am hoping not to disappoint. I have started a children's line of jewelry. Every night bright colors in my past medium of polymer clay, are strung on stretchy cord for small wrists. Stringing is just as fun as when I made that first necklace.

So "Just for Me Designs" is the answer to the questions asked of many a little girl last year. And this year the answer is yes, these are just for you! And maybe just maybe a few little girls will string a macaroni necklace for Mommy, and then the jewelry journey for them will begin.

Blessings to All! C. No longer a stringing snob!