New Year Ramblings

I've set some intentions for this new year (I don't make resolutions). I really need to find my niche and settle into it. I've got so many projects going now I don't seem to focus on any one thing long enough.

My daughter called the other day and was telling me about a book she'd just received called "Spiritual Marketing", by Joe Vitale. I'd read his original publication in 1999, and it really helped me for a time, but I failed to keep it in mind when I started slipping back into the old issues with self worth. I didn't realize it until three or four days later, but I went to the computer almost immediately and made this pattern for a pendant. I thought it was somehow significant that Janus, the deity of gates, doors, and hallways would creep into my mind at just that moment. Is this going to be a good selling pattern when I get it finished, or is it just to remind me to look ahead and be aware of the opportunities that arise? I don't know, but as soon as I get it beaded up, so I can see if the colors all work I guess I'll see.

One thing I know for sure, we must keep ourselves open to new possibilities, we must project what we want and let them happen. Sometimes we try so hard to make things happen that we block what could be.

Happy crafting throughout the year to all you crafters out there!

New Pattern

I've been playing around with African Netting which I learned as one of my first beading projects. The first time I made it, I used just one color, but a few weeks ago I looked at it and began to see designs in the netting. I sat down and made a pattern and as I worked that pattern, I saw another design, so I graphed that new design out on the finished pattern. It turned out so nice I decided to put the pattern up for sale. You can click on the title of this blog to see both designs.

Although I'm not generally a stringer, I was recently asked how to make an "Endless Necklace". It took me a while to figure out what they were talking about. I hope my article answered the question.

New Beaded Jewelry Item

I've just finished my newest creation, Labradorite Ripple. I was enchanted by the pattern Regal Reiteration in the December 2008 issue of Bead and Button and decided to adapt it a little to accommodate a large labradorite bead pendant I had.

Unfortunately a much better camera and light system, plus more photography know how is needed to catch the chatoyance of the Labradorite.

I found this description of Labradorite at Shamans Crystal.co.uk.
"The magicians stone, or the dark side of the moon. This crystal is for transformation of the self. It humbles the ego and reveals the hidden areas of negativity that we all engage in; power dramas and subtle power games that we play in relationships of any kind. It brings to light areas which have been hidden, allowing for more to be understood. Freezes your actions in Meditation; that is slows anger, ego projection and allows the user to see what is present, as is. Anti- Ego Consciousness, Anti-Arrogance, Anti Illusion, Installs humility, anti-haste. Encourages stability in the self, grounding and centering, places the consciousness closer to the true self expression. Good for people nearing the end of the Saturn or Plutonian return. Reveals hidden talents and abilities held within the shadow self for use now. Encourages knowledge and wisdom of the self; purely, and therefore is a means to growth of the personality. Why is it called the dark side of the moon? Because it reveals that which is present but can not be seen by the light of the conscious mind without reflection."

The Bohemian Heart

I've just come from The Bohemian Heart web site. She's only got one "series" of jewelery put up but it's gorgeous!

Are you looking for a unique gift for that special someone? Or planning a wedding? The Bohemian Heart, owned and operated by Wendy Corley, specializes in wedding jewelry and bouquets.

With more and more people developing allergies to plants and pollen, the "forever" bouquets made with silk flowers and/or crystals are becoming more and more popular. As you might expect from the name the items on this site are unique.


Barefoot sandals are becoming very popular with brides especially in warmer weather. Unfortunately Wendy didn't take picture of most of the wedding jewelry she's created before they went to the brides and bridal party, but she will make custom jewelry according to your specifications. If you don't see what you like on her site, contact her and tell her what you want. I don't think you'll be disappointed! The bride in this picture is wearing earrings and necklace by The Bohemian Heart called "White Eyelet". Sorry the picture isn't clear.

You can see more of The Bohemian Heart's jewelry in her gallery.