Well, it's actually only 11:30 in the morning, but the last line of The Night Before Christmas somehow seemed fitting. 5 days to go and Max is so excited. It's good to see that even at 8 years old, he is still enveloped in the magic of Christmas. Lily is excited too, but a bit quieter about it all. We've been asking and asking what she'd like, and the answers are hard to come by - mostly books really. Neither one of them had any lengthy list of must-haves. It's nice to see that they are content with what they have, but it does make our job a wee bit harder. However, in keeping with my last post, we have ordered several custom gifts for each of them that will be one-of-a-kind and speak volumes to them about how special they are to us. Haven't really set foot in the mall too much. While I cross my fingers that these things will make it here on time, I know that they will be worth the wait if they are a few days late. The presents can wait if they have to, but our Christmas morning will be just as wonderful with just being together. It will be just the four of us on Christmas day as we are entertaining family on Christmas eve, but I don't mind. We so rarely get a whole day to just be together.
I finally slept for 8 hours the other night, but so far it's the only time since September that I've made it all night. The headaches have backed off a bit, so I will take what I can get. I would rather slather on the concealer and feel groggy than feel like taking an ice pick to my head to pry the migraine out. I've had migraines since puberty but the last few years they had mostly gone away. Not sure yeat what is triggering this round, but it has been quite stressful at home the last few months. Big changes are looming for my husband and until that is all settled, I feel that these things will continue for me. When it is settled, then I believe things will be really good for all of us. I've read our horoscopes for 2011 and things look promising. I'm supposed to be more creative than ever, and he is to excel in his career. Let's see if the stars are right.
I'm planning some new things for 2011. More courses for me - wax casting, acid etching to name a couple. I've got a complete bridal line to design in January. More and more custom work keeps coming in and that's super. Thanks so much to everyone who has trusted me to create something special! I'm going to do a series of more practical and technical blogs - try to get pick up by some of the bigger jewelry blog sites. 2011 is all about marketing Pink Gargoyle and really getting it out there - time to get into the States for sure. I'm going to enter some design competitions too. I'm also toying with some home decor items in copper and wood. Let's see if I can avoid biting off more than I can chew!
So that's it for now. I wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Kwanza or whatever you choose to celebrate. I hope you all find peace in 2011. Thanks so much to all of you out there who have supported Pink Gargoyle - it truly means the world to me that you find my work beautiful enough to spend your hard-earned money on it.
Cheers!
Monday, December 20, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Ozymandias
"I met a traveler from an antique land
Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;
And on the pedestal these words appear:
“My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!”
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away."
Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;
And on the pedestal these words appear:
“My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!”
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away."
Make It Count
Last weekend at Make It Vancouver (http://www.makeitproductions.com/) was simply awesome. A wall-to-wall crush of people for the full three days, great music and a totally upbeat atmosphere. There were some interesting outfits being sported, including a mohawk-haired woman in Buzz Lightyear pajamas (I know Vancouver is casual, but seriously?). And I'm not sure about adults wearing furry animal hats with ears. To each his/her own, I know...I know...not judging, but did make for some good people watching. For those that were wondering, maybe the only one person out there, I've decided to include the poem that is featured on my cuff bracelet that I wear all the time. It is called "Ozymandias," by Shelley, and it struck me the first time I read it in Literature 12 and it still speaks to me now.
Okay, so apparently I can't copy and paste it into this entry so the poem gets it own blog entry. I'm not that technical and it's taking too long to figure out.
Anyway, this poem is important to me because it clearly signifies how humankind's quest for domination over this planet and each other is ultimately futile. Nothing we build now, no wars, no endless quest for greed and excess - none of it will matter because in time, we all turn to dust. I'm not trying to be depressing. But I am tired of the relentless need to shop that consumes North America. With the coming of American Thanksgiving this week, and the news anchors already gearing up to cover the line ups, chaos and maybe even more deaths by shopper stampede, it puts me off even thinking about presents. We don't need anything. None of us really do. Does this make me sound like a hypocrite? Here I am making jewelry that I really want you to buy but I'm saying "hey, don't shop." I like giving gifts. I like seeing someone receive something that makes them feel special - that's a great feeling and it can be wrapped up in a pretty package. But we need to chose thoughtfully - not just whatever is on special, or the latest gadget just because it's what everyone has.
And even more importantly, we need to treat each other better in the here and now. Be kinder, be more understanding, be forgiving of other's foibles. While our buildings and bodies will eventually crumble, we can at least control the here and now and make it worthwhile. We won't be remembered for having the biggest house, or the most stuff, but we will be remembered for being simply a good person. I've recently been dumped by a friend for some unknown unforgiveable sin - several weeks of nonstop migraines, lots of product to build so no time for long phone convos, too big a muffin top - I really don't know. I fell out of touch for a couple of weeks and boom - not on the cool list anymore. No hard feelings on my part- disappointed that it happened when I don't know what I did, but I'm not going to grovel. If that is what she wants, then I guess the relationship wasn't what I thought it was. I've been mulling it over constantly to try to figure it out, but no more. I can't keep blaming myself for being busy and in a pain-killer induced stupor. It's not what I would do to someone, but as I said before, to each their own. I wish her well.
So hopefully tonight I will actually sleep and not rehash anymore. Insomia and migraines. Great combination. Anyway, back to work making more gifts....I'm doing two charm bracelets for some high school coaches. Each charm will have the number of a player on it. It's a very thougtful gift that will be remembered. The kind that brings a smile to one's face and the warm feeling inside that you really matter to someone and won't be easily forgotten or dismissed.
Okay, so apparently I can't copy and paste it into this entry so the poem gets it own blog entry. I'm not that technical and it's taking too long to figure out.
Anyway, this poem is important to me because it clearly signifies how humankind's quest for domination over this planet and each other is ultimately futile. Nothing we build now, no wars, no endless quest for greed and excess - none of it will matter because in time, we all turn to dust. I'm not trying to be depressing. But I am tired of the relentless need to shop that consumes North America. With the coming of American Thanksgiving this week, and the news anchors already gearing up to cover the line ups, chaos and maybe even more deaths by shopper stampede, it puts me off even thinking about presents. We don't need anything. None of us really do. Does this make me sound like a hypocrite? Here I am making jewelry that I really want you to buy but I'm saying "hey, don't shop." I like giving gifts. I like seeing someone receive something that makes them feel special - that's a great feeling and it can be wrapped up in a pretty package. But we need to chose thoughtfully - not just whatever is on special, or the latest gadget just because it's what everyone has.
And even more importantly, we need to treat each other better in the here and now. Be kinder, be more understanding, be forgiving of other's foibles. While our buildings and bodies will eventually crumble, we can at least control the here and now and make it worthwhile. We won't be remembered for having the biggest house, or the most stuff, but we will be remembered for being simply a good person. I've recently been dumped by a friend for some unknown unforgiveable sin - several weeks of nonstop migraines, lots of product to build so no time for long phone convos, too big a muffin top - I really don't know. I fell out of touch for a couple of weeks and boom - not on the cool list anymore. No hard feelings on my part- disappointed that it happened when I don't know what I did, but I'm not going to grovel. If that is what she wants, then I guess the relationship wasn't what I thought it was. I've been mulling it over constantly to try to figure it out, but no more. I can't keep blaming myself for being busy and in a pain-killer induced stupor. It's not what I would do to someone, but as I said before, to each their own. I wish her well.
So hopefully tonight I will actually sleep and not rehash anymore. Insomia and migraines. Great combination. Anyway, back to work making more gifts....I'm doing two charm bracelets for some high school coaches. Each charm will have the number of a player on it. It's a very thougtful gift that will be remembered. The kind that brings a smile to one's face and the warm feeling inside that you really matter to someone and won't be easily forgotten or dismissed.
Friday, November 12, 2010
What's in a Name?
So in helping Lily do a bit of research on the Notre Dame cathedral the other day, we came across an interesting fact about the origins of the word "gargoyle." It is derived from the latin word "gurgulio," which means throat or gullet. In actuality, the gargoyles on the cathedral are drainpipes, hence the name - the water "gurgling" through their throats. In archetectural terms, gargoyles are functioning drainpipes, non-water spouting gargoyle-like creatures are simply known as "grotesques." There are over 5000 gargoyles at Notre Dame. I guess I have 9 "grotesques" sitting around me at home. Neither Guido nor Salvatore (yes, I name them), spout water, but they do make me happy (they are both smiling). Lily thought this little tidbit about what gargoyle means simply hilarious. So yes, I guess Pink Gargoyle is really Pink Drainpipe.
But still, I really appreciate that a true gargoyle has both form and function. I like that in modern art and architecture too. Pretty objects are lovely, but if they also serve a useful purpose, then so much the better. When I was in my painting phase, I worked first on clothing before moving to larger and larger pieces of furniture. While I decorated these pieces with themes of mythology, or mexican tile designs, each still had a functional purpose. Frankly, you can't argue with the absolute perfection of an iconoclastic Eames chair. I don't pretend that my work was ever so lofty, but still even my painted wooden pepper mills served a need. Does my jewelry? The function is pretty basic - accent an outfit and flatter the wearer by being comfortable and easily wearable. The form - well, that continues to evolve.
I am glad that the season for markets and craft shows is winding down. I have another 5 weeks to go. But I am already chomping at the bit to move on and let my art evolve. I have a list of new skills and techniques to learn during the winter and spring so that I can continue to expand on my vision of what Pink Gargoyle means to me and, hopefully, to you.
But still, I really appreciate that a true gargoyle has both form and function. I like that in modern art and architecture too. Pretty objects are lovely, but if they also serve a useful purpose, then so much the better. When I was in my painting phase, I worked first on clothing before moving to larger and larger pieces of furniture. While I decorated these pieces with themes of mythology, or mexican tile designs, each still had a functional purpose. Frankly, you can't argue with the absolute perfection of an iconoclastic Eames chair. I don't pretend that my work was ever so lofty, but still even my painted wooden pepper mills served a need. Does my jewelry? The function is pretty basic - accent an outfit and flatter the wearer by being comfortable and easily wearable. The form - well, that continues to evolve.
I am glad that the season for markets and craft shows is winding down. I have another 5 weeks to go. But I am already chomping at the bit to move on and let my art evolve. I have a list of new skills and techniques to learn during the winter and spring so that I can continue to expand on my vision of what Pink Gargoyle means to me and, hopefully, to you.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Just Being
Still waiting for fall. And waiting, and waiting. Beautiful warm sunny days and still not a sweater in sight.
I've been in my new studio for about a month now and I absolutely love it. It's so nice to sit by the window all day and watch the neighbourhood, listen to classical music and create, create, create. My husband's office has been relegated to the basement - his choice - don't forget, this was all his idea, and apparently he's lonely. I may say we can move everything back in a soothing voice, but really - I'm not going anywhere. And the dining room table is clear - and we've been eating there. That's great too. I find we spend a lot longer together over dinner - talking, laughing. I think this move has been good for us in so many ways. We only have dinner together as a family a few nights a week, so it really helps spending this extra time together.
In the fall and winter, I do find that I cocoon, and with the pressure of getting ready for the West Coast Women's Show (www.westcoastwomen.net) and the other upcoming Christmas markets, I have withdrawn a bit from the social swing of things. That's okay though - like I said, I think our focus right now is certainly more on family life. Family is the one constant and I am not about to take it for granted any longer. Friends come and go, mostly go really, and I am not a believer in the whole idea of a "BFF." As a family, we are making some decisions about some major changes in our lifestyle and location that will hopefully come to pass in the next two years. (Nova Scotia anyone?) Then it's only a hop across the pond to move to Europe in the future too. I don't want to grow stagnant by staying in the same city all my life, and I want my children to know more that this part of the world. I find it scary when you meet people that basically live down the road from where they grew up. Come on - get out of town. Start fresh with no baggage, no preconceptions of who you are supposed to be, and no pretending to be someone else just to hang onto a friendship.
I know that this all may sound a trifle negative, especially with regards to friendship, but it's not. I like having friends and I'm very loyal to them. It's just that I think that I have reached, finally, a place in my life where I am content with myself and my family, and they need to be the focus of my attention and affection. They are my world and I treasure my time with them.
I've been in my new studio for about a month now and I absolutely love it. It's so nice to sit by the window all day and watch the neighbourhood, listen to classical music and create, create, create. My husband's office has been relegated to the basement - his choice - don't forget, this was all his idea, and apparently he's lonely. I may say we can move everything back in a soothing voice, but really - I'm not going anywhere. And the dining room table is clear - and we've been eating there. That's great too. I find we spend a lot longer together over dinner - talking, laughing. I think this move has been good for us in so many ways. We only have dinner together as a family a few nights a week, so it really helps spending this extra time together.
In the fall and winter, I do find that I cocoon, and with the pressure of getting ready for the West Coast Women's Show (www.westcoastwomen.net) and the other upcoming Christmas markets, I have withdrawn a bit from the social swing of things. That's okay though - like I said, I think our focus right now is certainly more on family life. Family is the one constant and I am not about to take it for granted any longer. Friends come and go, mostly go really, and I am not a believer in the whole idea of a "BFF." As a family, we are making some decisions about some major changes in our lifestyle and location that will hopefully come to pass in the next two years. (Nova Scotia anyone?) Then it's only a hop across the pond to move to Europe in the future too. I don't want to grow stagnant by staying in the same city all my life, and I want my children to know more that this part of the world. I find it scary when you meet people that basically live down the road from where they grew up. Come on - get out of town. Start fresh with no baggage, no preconceptions of who you are supposed to be, and no pretending to be someone else just to hang onto a friendship.
I know that this all may sound a trifle negative, especially with regards to friendship, but it's not. I like having friends and I'm very loyal to them. It's just that I think that I have reached, finally, a place in my life where I am content with myself and my family, and they need to be the focus of my attention and affection. They are my world and I treasure my time with them.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
It's that wonderful time of the year again
And I don't mean back to school. I mean Fall is almost here. I love Fall. I like back to school too though. I haven't done too much work over the summer. Working means ignoring the kiddies and then they just stare at their video games with slack jaws for hours on end. So I am eager to get really going on some new ideas. But Fall - boots, sweaters, no more bees....crispy afternoons and cuddles under a blanket. And rain. I love rain too. Total Vancouver girl. Truly my favourite time of year.
So new ideas - I have recently acquired a selection of vintage watch gears and enamel watch faces from the 1800s. (www.steampunksupply.etsy.com). I really like steampunk. How can I not? Huge Tim Burton fan - the man can do no wrong. I'm not out to copy the basic trend. I'm going to incorporate what I've been doing already with the little bits and pieces. I was looking through my own jewelry the other day at what I was wearing 20 years ago (so old!), and there is a lot of steampunk like pieces in my personal collection. Vintage door knockers with old rhinestones, antique watch faces and other assorted electric knick knacks - incorporated into brooches, bolero ties and the like. So I think taking on the steampunk esthetic is not following a trend, it is more like returning to my own roots - the things that I have liked and worn for years. I'm thinking of call the line "Steampink" - too corny? Anyway, I will get up some pics as soon as I finish a few pieces.
Today was the first day that I went back and read what I wrote for the last post about Lucy. I read it without crying. So that's good. Still miss her terribly but I can talk about her with a feeling of love, not sadness. Bless our pets though. They are our furry children.
I recently taken over the office space in our house for my new studio/shop so very happy about that too. My drill and hammers can come into the house. I can make as much noise and mess as I want. I can listen to classical music all day - Pablo has been relegated to the basement for his workspace now. Can't fault the man for his support in all this. It was even his idea. And guess what, we are eating at the dining room table for the first time since Christmas. Freaky. I may even invite people over for dinner.
So new ideas - I have recently acquired a selection of vintage watch gears and enamel watch faces from the 1800s. (www.steampunksupply.etsy.com). I really like steampunk. How can I not? Huge Tim Burton fan - the man can do no wrong. I'm not out to copy the basic trend. I'm going to incorporate what I've been doing already with the little bits and pieces. I was looking through my own jewelry the other day at what I was wearing 20 years ago (so old!), and there is a lot of steampunk like pieces in my personal collection. Vintage door knockers with old rhinestones, antique watch faces and other assorted electric knick knacks - incorporated into brooches, bolero ties and the like. So I think taking on the steampunk esthetic is not following a trend, it is more like returning to my own roots - the things that I have liked and worn for years. I'm thinking of call the line "Steampink" - too corny? Anyway, I will get up some pics as soon as I finish a few pieces.
Today was the first day that I went back and read what I wrote for the last post about Lucy. I read it without crying. So that's good. Still miss her terribly but I can talk about her with a feeling of love, not sadness. Bless our pets though. They are our furry children.
I recently taken over the office space in our house for my new studio/shop so very happy about that too. My drill and hammers can come into the house. I can make as much noise and mess as I want. I can listen to classical music all day - Pablo has been relegated to the basement for his workspace now. Can't fault the man for his support in all this. It was even his idea. And guess what, we are eating at the dining room table for the first time since Christmas. Freaky. I may even invite people over for dinner.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Goodbye Baby
As I write this, there are tears in my eyes and a crushing on my heart. Today I said goodbye to my beautiful calico cat, Lucy. She was eighteen. We knew that her time was coming but that doesn't make it any easier. She began panting heavily with her mouth full open and wheezing. She was staggering. This morning she gave me her usual good morning howl and demanded breakfast, but barely took a bite. She had a small turn around the garden but asked to come back in. An indoor cat for her life, we had recently started letting her out in the garden in the quiet of the early morning. She wasn't going to be jumping any fences. She loved her adventures and would sit on the chair beside me on the deck, purring and touching me with happiness. She was peaceful as we drove to the vet's office and they were so very kind. It was all very calm and peaceful, and we said our goodbyes. I've been crying for so long today. Telling Lily and Max was horrible. Max had become very close to Lucy the last few months as she sat beside him on a chair during each meal. I think the sounds of their choking sobs was worse than the silence in the exam room. I dread the day when when we have to say goodbye to Molly. Molly and Lily are devoted to each other in the same way that I belonged to Lucy before anyone else. I have cleaned away her plates and water glass. I have a lock of her fur tucked away. Lucy loved me fiercely and enjoyed each day of her life. She was loud and tempermental and funny. She could flush the toilet. I miss her terribly and it's only been three hours without her here. So if anyone reads this and knows how strong the bond can be with a beloved pet, raise a glass with me and toast Lucy's memory. Forever my Lucykin. Mama will always love you.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
One week in
And all is good. I've been walking 5k in the mornings with some hand weights, and am eating sensibly the majority of the time. I finished reading "Skinny Bitch," and the authors do make some well-researched points about diet. However, I am not prepared to go full vegan right now. I am still eating fish and organic eggs. I really can't believe that shrimp have feelings and if the chicken is treated fairly, then there is no issue for me to eat an egg now and then. I've given up dairy, sugar, and white flour. I've been having a delicious maple gluten free cereal with almond milk for breakfast and it is delicious. I don't even like cereal but I look forward to my bowl each day. I've been trying some of the Yves veggie cuisine and it's ok but definitely not the real thing. The "ground beef" was okay over a baked potato and in a taco. Cheese however is a problem. I don't really want to have soy, and the one that I have bought that is totally soy and dairy free is questionable. It make look like cheddar, it may grate like cheddar but I find it musty and nasty. I think it would be better to forego cheese, and maybe have a little of it now and then when it's absolutely necessary. Like eating meat. I am not going to eat meat on a daily basis, but if we go to the Keg for dinner and the smell of steak is infectious, then I may order my filet. I'm certainly not missing meat and there hasn't been an issue cooking it for the rest of the family.
Now, admittedly I did have some wine on the weekend (and it was sooo good), but I'm not missing that either on a daily basis. I feel quite content with what I have been eating but I do need to expand my mostly vegetarian repetoire. While my husband says he will eat what I eat, he has already forbidden any type of bean product. I love beans and there are some great recipes for delicious garlickly white beans. Anyway, he's going away again for weeks on end, so I don't really have to worry about him for now. Last night, we had mussels in a delicious broth and tonight it's scallops with some garlicky-teriyaki type green beans.
The weekend was so-so for sales. The Steveston Artisan & Farmer's market on Sunday was my most successful outing there ever. However, the Tsawwassen Sun Festival was a complete bust. Everyone was looking for a cheap bargain and hitting the beer tent. Not the right environment for my jewelry.
Trying to finish some new pieces this week but I've been slammed with a nasty cold so mostly just drifting around the house. Reading two awesome books, "Her Fearful Symmetry" by the author of "The Time Travellers Wife" and the "Vintage Caper" by Peter Mayle. Promised to take Lily out on a mommy-date today and taking Max for his mommy-date tomorrow. It's been hard giving them each enough attention with my husband away so much, so time for some one-on-one.
Lily is back from gymnastics and is thrilled to have found some change in the parking lot. Off to mommyland.
Cheers.
Now, admittedly I did have some wine on the weekend (and it was sooo good), but I'm not missing that either on a daily basis. I feel quite content with what I have been eating but I do need to expand my mostly vegetarian repetoire. While my husband says he will eat what I eat, he has already forbidden any type of bean product. I love beans and there are some great recipes for delicious garlickly white beans. Anyway, he's going away again for weeks on end, so I don't really have to worry about him for now. Last night, we had mussels in a delicious broth and tonight it's scallops with some garlicky-teriyaki type green beans.
The weekend was so-so for sales. The Steveston Artisan & Farmer's market on Sunday was my most successful outing there ever. However, the Tsawwassen Sun Festival was a complete bust. Everyone was looking for a cheap bargain and hitting the beer tent. Not the right environment for my jewelry.
Trying to finish some new pieces this week but I've been slammed with a nasty cold so mostly just drifting around the house. Reading two awesome books, "Her Fearful Symmetry" by the author of "The Time Travellers Wife" and the "Vintage Caper" by Peter Mayle. Promised to take Lily out on a mommy-date today and taking Max for his mommy-date tomorrow. It's been hard giving them each enough attention with my husband away so much, so time for some one-on-one.
Lily is back from gymnastics and is thrilled to have found some change in the parking lot. Off to mommyland.
Cheers.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Um yeah, so it's been awhile.....
Okay okay - it's July 25 so I certainly didn't follow through with that resolution. Nor did I manage to shed my 20 pounds, but the year isn't over yet! Ever hopeful, I continue to try. Though Gillian Michaels has said that to try is to fail. One must do. Frankly, if there was some way of streaming all the entries I compose in my head each day directly to the blog, I would have achieved my goal. I honestly think about what I want to write all the time. It's just the sitting down and actually typing it that seems to be the problem. So you can see, it's not that I am not committed, I'm just....well, honestly I guess in this respect it's fair to say "lazy." That sounds harsh but it is what it is (I really dislike that expresssion).
So quick round up of the year to date: I have had some awesome shows - the Women of Worth event in May (www.thewowevent.com) All signed up for next year. Township 7 winery Art in the Vines (www.township7.com) Looking forward to the August date as well. I had two pieces featured in the July issue of Bead Trends magazine. I'm getting more custom orders too. I even did a large crystal spider as a headpiece for a bride. I should get some photos of that shortly.
Personally - it's been a rough year and that is another reason for the absence. Frankenfoot made a reappearance, coupled with a sprained wrist for Lily. It looks like she has chronic tendonitis in her ankle so this will continue to happen as her training gets harder. However, Lily did place in her last three competitions including a silver for her bar routine. The word "divorce" has been mentioned though things seem a bit more settled now. I am spending most of the summer as a single parent though as he will be traveling (for work) for most of it. I did a stint working full time for several months - I enjoyed it but working, driving children and running a business? We ate a lot of takeout. Max now has a full size drum set and Lily graduated to a sweet red electric guitar. Practice sessions send the house shaking. Max also has really taken to basketball.
So here we are, halfway through the summer. I haven't been feeling great either so I really think it is time for some serious lifestyle changes to get myself back on track. I've been diagnosed with bursitis in my upper leg which causes a great deal of discomfort and I've been battling exhaustion. Excuses, excuses. I am my own worst enemy a lot of the time.
So here we go. Just do. And I shall....and I shall even tell you about it.
So quick round up of the year to date: I have had some awesome shows - the Women of Worth event in May (www.thewowevent.com) All signed up for next year. Township 7 winery Art in the Vines (www.township7.com) Looking forward to the August date as well. I had two pieces featured in the July issue of Bead Trends magazine. I'm getting more custom orders too. I even did a large crystal spider as a headpiece for a bride. I should get some photos of that shortly.
Personally - it's been a rough year and that is another reason for the absence. Frankenfoot made a reappearance, coupled with a sprained wrist for Lily. It looks like she has chronic tendonitis in her ankle so this will continue to happen as her training gets harder. However, Lily did place in her last three competitions including a silver for her bar routine. The word "divorce" has been mentioned though things seem a bit more settled now. I am spending most of the summer as a single parent though as he will be traveling (for work) for most of it. I did a stint working full time for several months - I enjoyed it but working, driving children and running a business? We ate a lot of takeout. Max now has a full size drum set and Lily graduated to a sweet red electric guitar. Practice sessions send the house shaking. Max also has really taken to basketball.
So here we are, halfway through the summer. I haven't been feeling great either so I really think it is time for some serious lifestyle changes to get myself back on track. I've been diagnosed with bursitis in my upper leg which causes a great deal of discomfort and I've been battling exhaustion. Excuses, excuses. I am my own worst enemy a lot of the time.
So here we go. Just do. And I shall....and I shall even tell you about it.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Is It Too Late to Still Say Happy New Year?
Anyway, Happy New Year! I made a resolution to write at least one entry per week. We are now two weeks into the year and here's the first entry. A shaky start but so far I am sticking to my other two resolutions. No alcohol until I land in Vegas on March 1st and no dessert. This is the year I drop my 20 pounds of shiraz/ice cream weight. So far so good. However, we are going to a neighbour's house tonight and there will be temptation. I would rather just hole up and not go anywhere until I am off this "fast." Ah Vegas, March can't get here soon enough.
I haven't been working too much lately. Put everything away for Christmas so we could actually use the dining room. It was awful not working! I felt so restless - what was I supposed to do with all that free time? Clean the house? Not going to happen. However, as of today, I can no longer see the surface of the dining room table except for my small work area. I've got lots of sketches to work from, a shopping list of goodies and a full tank of propane.
I don't have much available stock right now. Just before Christmas, I met with Christine, the owner of My Best Friend's Closet in Vancouver at Cambie & 16th and she took a lot of pieces. Very exciting and I hope they all sell soon!
I was also interviewed for an article on local artisans for an online magazine, Entrepreneurial Woman, and I've attached the link for you. I think I say words like "cool" too much so I hope I don't end up sounding like a ditz when you read it. I really am educated and can use much bigger words!
What else? Max starts drum lessons this week so we'll have even more noise around the house. He's mastered the "banging the sticks over his head to count 1-2-3-4" before he whales on them so it's clear he's got natural talent. Lily admitted that the cute boy who has clearly had a crush on her for months finally told her he liked her "liked her." The feeling is apparently mutual though she is playing hard to get and hasn't told him. That's my girl!
Watched Julie and Julia again and still teared up at the end. Goes to show that the desire to accomplish something with one's life is strong in this one master yoda. We shall see, we shall see.
I haven't been working too much lately. Put everything away for Christmas so we could actually use the dining room. It was awful not working! I felt so restless - what was I supposed to do with all that free time? Clean the house? Not going to happen. However, as of today, I can no longer see the surface of the dining room table except for my small work area. I've got lots of sketches to work from, a shopping list of goodies and a full tank of propane.
I don't have much available stock right now. Just before Christmas, I met with Christine, the owner of My Best Friend's Closet in Vancouver at Cambie & 16th and she took a lot of pieces. Very exciting and I hope they all sell soon!
I was also interviewed for an article on local artisans for an online magazine, Entrepreneurial Woman, and I've attached the link for you. I think I say words like "cool" too much so I hope I don't end up sounding like a ditz when you read it. I really am educated and can use much bigger words!
What else? Max starts drum lessons this week so we'll have even more noise around the house. He's mastered the "banging the sticks over his head to count 1-2-3-4" before he whales on them so it's clear he's got natural talent. Lily admitted that the cute boy who has clearly had a crush on her for months finally told her he liked her "liked her." The feeling is apparently mutual though she is playing hard to get and hasn't told him. That's my girl!
Watched Julie and Julia again and still teared up at the end. Goes to show that the desire to accomplish something with one's life is strong in this one master yoda. We shall see, we shall see.
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