Tuesday, last Sunday. We had a giant thunderstorm right after I took this! Good thing she had her bear with her to keep her company!

SOME of us are in the Hurricane's path so I am putting this us on Saturday morning!

BEADBLOGGERS!


Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean points out a lovely book which is a bestseller which she has a project in: Best of BeadStyle, Vol. 7 ! Please come and see how pretty it is!

The Bead Dreamer
What does it mean to really be ready - to sell online, to succeed... Charlene shares some thoughts and talks about where she is with this journey. 


The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Returning from Philadelphia, Andrew gives a recap of BeadFest!

A Bead A Day
Do you have a favorite project that you turn to for using leftover beads? Stop by A Bead A Day to share an idea or pick up an idea!

About.com Jewelry Making
Craft stores have come a long way with the jewelry supplies they now offer. Take this quick poll about your own craft store experience. 

Art Bead Scene
ABS Editor, Jennifer shares how to create a look for a store/gallery.

Beads & Books
Michelle uses the story of Cinderella to inspire a pair of earrings and shares a related upcoming challenge at Stringing magazine.  

Carmi's Art/Life World
This week will be "etched" into Carmi's summer memories as she blogs for John Bead.  

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy reviews Steel Wire Jewelry.  

Resin Crafts!
There is a new series this week featuring EasyCast clear casting epoxy.  

"Perhaps you have wondered how predictable machines like computers can generate randomness. In reality, most random numbers used in computer programs are pseudo-random, which means they are a generated in a predictable fashion using a mathematical formula. This is fine for many purposes, but it may not be random in the way you expect if you're used to dice rolls and lottery drawings.
RANDOM.ORG offers true random numbers to anyone on the Internet. The randomness comes from atmospheric noise, which for many purposes is better than the pseudo-random number algorithms typically used in computer programs. People use RANDOM.ORG for holding drawings, lotteries and sweepstakes, to drive games and gambling sites, for scientific applications and for art and music. The service has existed since 1998 and was built and is being operated by Mads Haahr of the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College, Dublin in Ireland." Quote from Random.Org.

I went to Random.Org to get my winner for the giveaway  of the beautiful book,
Maggie Meister's
Classical Elegance
20 Beaded jewelry Designs 
I must say it was a pleasure to offer such a fantastic book as a giveaway. It is a complete winner, itself.

My giveaway number which was drawn at Random.Org was 5
I usually like to show you but I couldn't, today, for some reason--it wouldn't copy and paste for me, but you will take my word for it, I hope. You know I always want every one of you to win!

Anyway, this means that Pine Ridge Treasures is the fortunate winner of this book. I wish I could give all of you a copy of this book as it is beautiful as well as extremely educational, in a fun way. Thank you for entering this giveaway--I look forward to doing another one soon! 
And Erin S, I know my dolls look like they are on hallucinogens... but.... what are YOU??? as they say!!! HAH!
I SAW that comment!

Pine Ridge Treasures, please contact me with your address and we will get your book out to you!

Thank you all so much  (and that includes YOU, Erin S!!! Love me, love my alien outer spacey dolls).

--jean xox!!! :)

This is my project. It is named "Shades of Light and Dark". It is meant to exemplify the eerie light and shadows which are part of living where we do, in a very very old town, which once was groomed farmland in the 1700's and is now overtaken with bracken and woods. It is like oppositeland here. The lady in the pendant is my representation of the lady of the forest. Step out of the brilliant sunlight of your yard and you are immediately engulfed in primordial darkness...

Yes, that is NOT my project  on the cover! It is the amazingly lovely work of Katie Hacker, employing her Katiedids (c)  components, which you can find on her website, which is on my sidebar, or on this direct link I just gave you. They pretty much blew every one's mind and continue to do so! It was a simple yet brilliant concept which nobody had thought of before and the ramifications have been delightful! Everyone loves these components. If you haven't yet tried them, go check them out--you will LOVE them. I even wrote them up in my column for Australian Beading magazine. I am completely taken with them!

Now what was I talking about  before I so rudely interrupted myself by admiring this fab cover of this super book?

Oh yes!  I am in this super book! I have a cool project in it. See it above! Artbeads assisted me with the project by donating all the beads, which was incredibly kind of them. I really am proud that I was accepted by the magazine my project was initially in, and then this great five star book. 

The fact is I made a request for the book just last week. I do not know what happened to my copy, as usually when you get into a BeadStyle publication or a Kalmbach book, you get the BEST treatment. Therefore I am blaming the post office for this. Because I couldn't have possibly done this to myself, as you all know I am perfect! Someone at the Post Office is having a ball making stringing and beading projects! I hope they know the rules and don't sell them for profit!!! I am watching you, local post office! If you guys are all wearing jewelry all of a sudden...I will KNOW for sure!!!

Anyway. Here is what is said about this book:

"Even after seven years, readers will continue to find exciting and unique ideas in this delicious compilation of more than 80 of the best projects from the seventh year of BeadStyle magazine. Using only accessible techniques such as stringing and simple wire skills, readers can quickly and easily make a stash of necklaces, bracelets and earrings to accent their favorite clothes. Great photos and step-by-step instructions with call-outs help teach readers techniques and design ideas."

Quote is from goodreads. Amazon.com gives this volume 5 stars. All the volumes from the very first one are big, gorgeous, beautiful books suitable for beginners on up. A library of them would be a dream come true!

I have been in a lot of BeadStyle volumes. In fact on my site you can see many of them. We had a very busy year so I didn't list off some of the things which I was in...but I will be darned if I am leaving out the beauty which is Best of BeadStyle Vol. 7 !!!

--jean

Incidentally, BeadStyle magazine was instrumental in getting me my start in jewelry making. Thank you for that, BeadStyle, you will always rock my world!

I got my beads for my bead soup from....

Tah dah...

Lori Anderson the GREAT herself!

She was kind enough to send me beads as I didn't have a partner.

What a terrific person she is!

I fell in love with them instantly, and I have no doubt that I will be having a LOT of fun creating a very sweet design, punched up from sweet to something even more cool, due to this remarkable and sophisticated color palette, with no problem!

Burgundy drilled pearls, tiny pink Lucite flowers, Czech glass vintage flowers, Swarovski Elements bicones, Hill Tribe sterling beads, a lovely sterling clasp in the classic S shape, and a fantastic!!! fused glass pendant. I adore everything completely! This is my dream come true!

Thank you Lori for being so dear, and for sending such beautiful beads to me.--jean 

"Sadie in stripes"--and on stripes! Sadie is a Jenink custom from Australia, wearing Scintillatingdollies from the UK! You can hit the photo to enlarge it!

BEADBLOGGERS!



Resin Crafts!
Carmi uses a great new mold to make "people" donuts.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
How to win the great giveaway of Maggie Meister's Classical Elagance--an amazing and breathtaking book! See jean's blog!  

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene shares her dreamy mermaid necklace and links to other participants in her first ever jewelry challenge.

About.com Jewelry Making
Set up your jewelry designing by making the perfect jewelry sets.    

Art Bead Scene
Try something different with your art beads - ribbon!  

Carmi's Art/Life World
Margot Potter's new book inspired Carmi's new linked necklace.  

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Need some iron in your jewelry diet? Tuesday Tangle has just what you're looking for!  

a little peek into the journal! --With Lisa'a signature words which she lives by:

WOOT WOOT KINDNESS PASS IT ON!

I wish more people were like Lisa!

Lisa Faeth of Fishy Face Designs Jewelry has, as many of you know, started a wonderful mission to  further connect all of us who love and use the internet, in an even more close way! Those of us who have signed up on her blog (use the button you will see there) will be taking part in writing in a journal which will be traveling all over the place! We receive this journal in the mail ( I got it yesterday from Erin!) , write in it, and pass it on to the next person awaiting it. I am going to be mailing it to Amberr! You also write a personal note to the person who follows you.

Here above is the front of the note Erin wrote to me! With a sweet letter inside!

It is just very very wonderful and uplifting. You feel HAPPY when you get the journal, and excited, too! I love the fact that the journal Lisa choose is red, with a heart embossed on it. That is because love is what this is really all about. Showing your heart and embracing what you might normally be used to hiding.

I hope you read this entry and then go over and join in this delightful and easy way to express what other people mean to you, as you go along your path in life. I know they mean EVERYTHING to me. I never want to walk alone. Thanks for reading this! Now go sign up. You will get rewards  from this which you couldn't possibly imagine. Knights of the Traveling Journal invited, too, of course! Thank you so much!

--jean

the amazing Maggie Meister!

"Macha" necklace from book

How to win giveaway of Maggie Meister's Classical Elegance

book!

1) read my review under this entry, or on Tuesday on my blog
2) make a comment  under the review
3) follow me on the google thing, if you do like me. Join it if you are not already a member!!!
4) if you don't like me, just keep it to yourself but you should get to know me better I am not that bad
5) Good luck and if you leave the comment here I will figure it out.
6) I will choose the winner by random.org next week on Friday and announce then! Yay!

A review of Maggie Meister's
CLASSICAL ELEGANCE

20 beaded jewelry designs.

review by jean yates

This book is wonderful in that it adds so many extra dimensions to the average jewelry design book. I cannot get over the influences which Maggie Meister has incorporated into her designs, and the ease with which she explains and expands upon these influences. Art history, which encompasses a study of all the beauty which humans can and have produced, is a major theme in this awe inspiring design book.
Ms. Meister was influenced since childhood by historical architecture, ancient times, mosaics, and so many other amazing offerings, which she poured over until she grew up.
According to her introduction, which is titled "Beads and Antiquity are my two great loves", she learned to bead before moving to Italy, and then spent five years there realizing her passion for beadweaving could be combined with her passion for the beauties of Naples, Italy in all its historical significance.

I embrace her desire to express in beads the glorious past, and I delight in her major new book. It is a success on every level and is absolutely breathtaking.

You will learn the basic stitches needed, and them you will learn embellishments.

Ms Meister organized her book into 20 projects (with some great variations) based on what influenced her designs. After chapters on materials and tools, and then stitching techniques, comes a chapter called "Ancient & Antique Jewelry As Inspiration". The photographs and her explanations of her inspiration are almost painfully beautiful to view.You realize when you see her work that Ms. Meister has done something remarkable. She has taken seed beads and used them to transform metal and gemstone pieces from ancient times. The photos of the inspirations for her work, and then the photos of her work itself, are so inspiring I defy you not to fall in love with this book instantly. From Pompeii to the Etruscans, and more, the author has transformed herself into a "jewelry archeologist" in this chapter. The sumptuousness is palpable. If you have ever been drawn to the mystery of ancient times, you will want to try your hand at a project from this chapter, such as "Matriarch's Cuff". Its brilliant golds, coupled with striking sapphire tones, combine with emerald, ruby and pearl adornments. This lavish cuff will further fascinate you when you realize that it is named for the four Jewish matriarchs, Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah.
Another project from this chapter which is lovely is one called the "Girandole Earrings". With a finished length of 3", these are chandeliers. The drama of silver and black beads with white pearl drops creates a mix fit for a siren or a queen. Derived from the original Girandole earrings which were popular in the 17th century, these will have you at their feet.

The next chapter concerns the author's love for mosaics and textile motifs. As she says, "...perhaps more than any other medium, mosaic and rug patterns lend themselves wonderfully to translation with beads".
Turn to the first project and get your mind blown! I should have warned you this would happen. "Anatolia", based on the kilim carpets from the Anatolian region of Turkey, is an antiqued gold, turquoise and red brick beaded necklace you will not be able to tear your eyes away from. It is flabbergasting. Classical Elegance truly lives up to its name, as you will see when you peruse this book. However it is unique as well, despite the fact that each project is derived from an inspiration. It's classical, elegant, and completely original as well!
I love reading the prefaces to Ms. Meister's projects. The "Sappho Necklace" for example, which is on the cover of the book, discusses the symbol of the lyre and what it means. This symbol is woven three times into the front of the necklace. The lyre represents the famous Greek poet Sappho's famous creativity. The toggle of this necklace is sigh worthy as well.

The following chapter is the final chapter, and is absolutely gripping for those of us who find architecture compelling.The lovely shapes of the onion dome church steeples of Europe are recalled in the charming "Santa Sofia Pendant".
Nero's wife once resided in the Villa Oplonti in Naples. The bracelet designed from the frescoes at this archeological site will take your breath away. The bracelet "Oplonti" features vines, ivy leaves, and small buds of semi-precious stones, as the author describes it. This may be my favorite project of all. It calls to you to go back in time as you easily picture cherishing it on your wrist in the present.

The gallery at the end of the book, which feature photos of other work by the author, is totally stunning. I was taken with every photo presented.

Maggie Meister will drive you onward in your quest to become a great bead weaver. You are in incredibly capable hands when you once own this fabulous book. Classical Elegance is a timeless, winning, wonderful beadweaving book which you will never stop loving.

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

a view of the earrings, one is the back of one of the earrings with the organza on the back

the earrings I made, with pink pearls and gunmetal chain, silver ear wires and blush on the sterling flowers

close up of the back of the focal, with the vintage cabochon I glued onto it

My necklace I made , with a ribbon on the side, a tiny toggle above the split ring, some decorative dangles on the split ring, and flouncy beads in black on one side of the focal, and pink on the other. Cantaloupe crystals on the flouncy beads. Believe it or not, this is a very comfortable necklace which hangs perfectly!

what I received from Michelle in July!

Michelle Mach's Mostly Metal Challenge (see logo above) begins its big reveal today, Aug. 16th! After much anticipation, we who had the good fortune to be able to enter (don't worry--there will be more challenges if all goes as planned, starting in September possibly). will now be able to show what we have made. Armed with the exciting varieties of metals we received in our mystery packages, we all set out on a journey of discovery. All of us, and you as well, can visit each blog to see and admire the creativity which the entrants have shown as they demonstrate their talents with the super enthusiasm which this challenge incited.

As a member of the Gunmetal Love group, I received a package from Michelle (see the picture above of the goods spread out!): I was fascinated with what I got and believe it or not, only left out the ruby silk ribbon.

I was going to use that red ribbon right up to the end, but changed my mind and added a lighter , larger while polka dotted white organza, which would have to be changed out every so often but is fun, with the flouncy beads and enamel head pins which I got from Ferrari Original Beads
on Etsy. They went well with the black chain and also with the 8mm crystal bicones I had received in cantaloupe, and the vintage peachy pink cabochon which I glued to the back of the focal heart.

One night I couldn't sleep so I spent two hours trying to design the necklace. When I found the little matte black silver toggle which I could link the large split ring to, to finish my asymmetrical design, I was so happy. The earrings were glued with sterling flower beads, organza on the back to match the organza ribbon, and blushed with a bit of melon-y colored powder to go with the cabochon on the focal.

I like how my set turned out and I would do this challenge again in a New York Minute! I had a LOT of fun!!! Thanks Michelle, for holding this ingenious Mostly Metal Challenge! You rock!

Here are the other blogs to visit, available at Michele's link above. My blog broke over the weekend and I can only hotlink to Michele's link. You can get the news from her entry about the next challenge and hop to everyone who participated there, however! have fun!

Mostly Metal Blog Hop

Check out all the other wonderful designs:

Antique Brass Romantic
Donetta (via Michelle's blog)

Michelle
Pam
Shannon
Stephanie
Terry
Filigree Fun
Andrew
Cassie
Cyndi
Jeannie
Ruth
Vina "Jane" (via Michelle's blog)- design not available yet
Gunmetal Love
Erin
Heather
Jean
Kelli (via Michelle's blog)
Linda
Lola

Myth, my little Vampire, with her dolly, Half-Bite

Beadbloggers!

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy's got a new tool on her workbench, a rolling mill. Check out the jewelry pieces that have rolled out onto her bench!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean is getting verrrry excited, anticipating Michelle Mach's Mostly Metal Challenge! Come read about it!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
In an effort to help launch Allegory Gallery, Andrew announces the Allegory Gallery Fundraiser! Make a donation and receive a prize for your support!  

About.com Jewelry Making
Get twisting with your beads and learn to make a very cool twisted strand necklace with this bead weaving technique.  

Art Bead Scene
Come check out the August challenge!

Bursting with Pride for my Director relative, Malcom Murray. You must see this movie if you live near Brooklyn New York

Bursting with Pride for my Director relative, Malcom Murray. You must see this movie if you live near Brooklyn New York

Movie Review from the New York Times | 'Bad Posture'

Malcolm Murray/THIS

Florian Brozek (with Trey Cole out of focus in the background) as roommates in “Bad Posture.”

Outsiders in Albuquerque

By JEANNETTE CATSOULIS

Published: August 11, 2011

The first thing you notice about “Bad Posture” is that it’s unstudiedly cool: laid-back, observant and rather shady, it cares so little for your attention that you can’t stop watching.

This offhandedly nonchalant tone emanates in no small measure from the film’s summer-doldrums setting in Albuquerque. The director, Malcolm Murray, grew up there (as did most of his nonprofessional cast of friends and acquaintances), and this guys-hanging-out feature — Mr. Murray’s first narrative project — proceeds with an insider confidence that belies his inexperience and that of his collaborators.
Meandering but never aimless, Florian Brozek’s script observes a recently unemployed graffiti artist named Flo (Mr. Brozek) and his roommate, Trey (Trey Cole), a petty thief and occasional drug dealer. A chance encounter with the sweet Marissa (Tabatha Shaun) fills Flo with romantic longing and allows Trey to boost her car and wallet. For the rest of the movie, the crime’s gentle fallout provides the framework for a loving tour of Albuquerque subculture, a place where arguments are brief and cans of spray paint more prevalent than guns.
Enforcing a consistently mellow tone with inspired musical choices — Flo’s sole brush with violence plays out to Fredo Viola’s song “The Turn (A Pagan Lament),” and a lengthy tagging sequence mesmerizes with the help of Monteverdi — Mr. Murray creates a beguiling, visually rich canvas. In interviews he describes his film as a romance, but it’s not the one we think: the real passion here is between the director and his hometown.
BAD POSTURE
Opens on Friday in Brooklyn.
Directed and edited by Malcolm Murray; written by Florian Brozek; director of photography, Mr. Murray; production design by Rich Watts; produced by Lucy Bickerton and Neda Armian. At the reRun Gastropub Theater, 147 Front Street, Dumbo, Brooklyn. Running time: 1 hour 33 minutes. This film is not rated.

Here is Malcom's website:

He is involved in other projects as well, including what you see below. Also check out all the amazing press for this film.


from Malcolm:

Hi Jeannie,

So nice to hear from you!

I'm doing a variety of things.

I made a feature doc- cameracamerafilm.com

I do advertising work- http://vimeo.com/10562000

And now "Bad Posture".

Here's our facebook page- http://www.facebook.com/BadPostureFilm

We would love your help publicizing. 

Below is some press-

Thanks so much for getting in touch!

Malcolm

 

 

below, the review as you read above, and then please see the others--all amazing--jean

"The first thing you notice about “Bad Posture” is that it’s unstudiedly cool: laid-back, observant and rather shady, it cares so little for your attention that you can’t stop watching. Mr. Murray’s first narrative project proceeds with an insider confidence that belies his inexperience and that of his collaborators…. Mr. Murray creates a beguiling, visually rich canvas. In interviews he describes his film as a romance, but it’s not the one we think: the real passion here is between the director and his hometown."

Jeanette Catsoulis, THE NEW YORK TIMES

(http://movies.nytimes.com/2011/08/12/movies/bad-posture-by-malcolm-murray-review.html)

"A calmly assured, generally delightful narrative debut… There are rarely movies about friendship and boyhood's dying light (and eternal spirit) as generally effervescent as Mr. Murray's….Bad Posture contains worlds of rich texture and character interaction, or, for lack of a better word, community. While watching it, one almost expects many of the colorful cast of Albuquerque outcasts who make up the supporting players to walk off the screen and start talking to you over 40s and blunts. In fact, I really wish they would."

Brandon Harris, FILMMAKER MAGAZINE   (FILMMAKER MAGAZINE PICK OF THE WEEK)

(http://www.filmmakermagazine.com/news/2011/08/hammer-to-nail-review-%E2%80%94-bad-posture/)

"Immaculately shot misconduct… it's hard not to admire such a drolly off-kilter pass at the domestic regionalist indie."

Benjamin Mercer, THE VILLAGE VOICE

(http://www.villagevoice.com/2011-08-10/film/bad-posture-the-seedy-side-of-albuquerque/)

"Filled with some of the driest, sometimes almost undetectable dark humor I have ever seen in a film."

Jeff Berg, LOCAL IQ

(http://www.local-iq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2067&Itemid=56)

"A nuanced, visually inventive vista of young life in Albuquerque. Violence and crime are in the air at all times, but the moments of greatest tension are handled with an ethereal grace that is part comic nihilism and part hopeful dream."

Mark Elijah Rosenberg, ROOFTOP FILMS

(http://rooftopfilms.com/2011/schedule/bad-posture/)

"leisurely, deadpan hilarious, sneakily ambitious"

FILMMAKER MAGAZINE DIRECTOR'S INTERVIEW

(http://www.filmmakermagazine.com/news/2011/08/malcolm-murray-bad-posture/)

reRun theatre

147 Front St (between Jay St & Pearl Pl) 

Brooklyn, NY 11201

(718) 766-9110 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (718) 766-9110      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

SHOWTIMES:

FRIDAY, August 12 (7pm, 10pm) * Filmmakers + Star in person! *

SATURDAY, August 13 (2pm) * Filmmakers + Star in person! *

MONDAY, August 15 (7pm)

TUESDAY, August 16 (7pm, 10pm)

WEDNESDAY, August 17 (7pm, 10pm)

THURSDAY, August 18 (7pm, 10pm)

93 minutes. In English. Presented in Blu-ray. Unrated.

Tickets may be purchased for $7 at the door or online at http://badposture.eventbrite.com/.

*********************************************************************

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

THIS: info@hereisthis.com

Armian Pictures: Lucy Bickerton, lucy@armianpictures.com

www.badposturefilm.com

here is June's site and blog above: 

June herself!  What a lovely photo! She is so wonderful!

a delightful card June just made and posted on her blog!  How adorable is this???


I am posting part of an email from an old friend of mine, June Houck, who has signed up for the Sisterhood (and Knighthood!) of the Traveling Journal, conceived and run by Lisa of Alla Moda Fishy Face Designs.<--If you haven't yet joined, I urge you to do so. Just visit Lisa's site and you will see how to.

When I invited June to join this fun Journal, I wasn't sure she would have the time. Besides being a successful businesswoman, as you will see below, June has a loving husband and two beautiful daughters (who are twins). They have autism, like my sons. They are absolutely brilliant and enchanting girls, and totally different from each other, just in case you wondered if twins might be the same. No--they are their own people, with their own strengths. June is so great and so very aware of this.
June and her husband have encouraged them to progress and grow VERY VERY FAR (although they are quite a bit younger than my kids--their progress is so terrific)! She has a constant, valiant patience.  She is incredibly strong. Her devoted dedication to the girls expresses itself in a remarkable holistic manner:  their special diet, the advocacy she continuously, ceaselessly promotes for each of the girls according to each one's own special needs, and even by being a volunteer teacher at their school. It is beyond inspiring.
So if you think there is an area in your life which is rough, or you are going over a rough patch, picture June, who leaps tall buildings in a single bound. Every darn day. And get over yourself. That's what I do when I feel low. I just think about June, and how love builds a bridge which spans every difficulty we humans can imagine.
I celebrate June today, in August!

And here also is, business wise, what June has been up to. It's all great news and I am terribly proud to know her! I am pleased as can be she was willing to come along for the fun of the journal! Hoorayayay  for June!

June says:

"There has been a lot of good this summer.  I made some crafty goals for

myself in January...one was to learn to use my Cricut ( an electric die cutting
machine) that I finally got in November (I won it May 2010).  I searched the web
for Cricut-related challenge blogs and practiced.  It really intimidated me, but
now I don't know why.  I use it for nearly every card I make now.
(note from jean: OK, what the heck is IS this??? Anyone??? I hate looking stupid).Then I decided I would like to try a kit club, but of course I don't want to
spend any $$$.  If I buy anything craft-wise, it's gonna be adhesive with my 40%
Michael's coupon or more Cricut cartridges if I can get a really good sale ($25
or less).  Anyway, I found a kit club that consistently puts together *new*
papers & embellies that I like.  The kits are from "Artful Delight"...the lady's
name is Leeanne and she lives in Winchester, VA.  I have been participating in
her monthly sketch challenges since last spring; she randomly draws a winner.  I
have yet to win, but in June Leeanne asked me to be a guest designer for August. 
I have had a blast working with her and her kit.  Leeanne's Artful Delight blog
is:  http://artfuldelight.blogspot.com/

Another online store had their first ever DT call in
July.  I applied and I am now designing for ShopPumpkinSpice August through
December.  ShopPumkinSpice carries all the new lines of My Mind's Eye, Echo
Park, Jillibean Soup, etc. I ordered on a Tuesday morning and had my order by Thursday morning...all the way from
Washington state!!!  Denine, the store owner is super sweet.  Her online store
is here:
http://www.shoppumpkinspice.com/information.php?info_id=11


I remember I told you that I also applied for Robyn Cardon's "My Pink Stamper"
DT for August-December and I was chosen for that too!!!  She requires two
posts/month.  The first is a My Pink Stamper blog hop the second Friday of the
month and the other is a scheduled post later in the month.  You get 1 free
stamp set each month...however Robyn is very generous.  She sent every designer
3 sets this month!  I got back-to-school, Halloween, and Christmas sentiments. 
I am having so much fun :) 
I made two cards for Robyn and she posted on her site in this post  (I'm about
mid-way in the post):
http://www.mypinkstamper.com/2011/08/my-pink-stamper-school-days-stamp-set.html

Anyway, you can see some of my August posts on my blog, if you wish:
http://www.simplyelegantpapercrafts.blogspot.com/

LOVE YOU!!!
June="



JUNE, I LOVE YOU TOO. You amaze me every day...and some things we talk privately about we just can't share with the  world, but I want to say here in public that you are absolutely one of the most remarkable Mothers I know, in every way!
Thank you  for inspiring me, both creatively, intellectually, and through your ability to love.--jean

Hi! I am very excited to be participating in this superfun challenge created by Michelle Mach, as you may recall, but I cannot believe the "reveal" and blog jump are only SIX days away, on Aug.16th!
Here is an email which I received from Michelle a few days ago:

"Hi everyone,

The Mostly Metal Challenge Blog Hop is scheduled for August 16. I hope your designs are coming along! (I just ripped out part of my design last night, so if you're having trouble, you're not alone.)

For the Blog Hop, you'll need to have a post on your blog that day, linking to all the other blogs. In your post, you'll want to include:

* a photo of your project (or multiple photos); you can also show your kit if you want (note from jean--all the kits were metal based in different types of metals, plus some fab beads and some fibers or ribbons--mine was a Gunmetal Love kit and I do indeed love it)!
* any text you like--the techniques you used, your inspiration, challenges/problems, the non-challenge beads/materials you added, etc. It's up to you what you want to include.
* links to all other blogs in the Blog Hop  "

I am so excited I just had to put this reminder up.
This is definitely going to be a lovely hop which I recommend you visit--it will be a fun vacation for you and an inspiration, as well!

--jean

congratulations Kristen, I used the Random.org number chooser and lucky number 13 came up, which was you! You won Margot Potter's spectacular book,

New Dimensions in Bead and Wire Jewelry

I wish to thank everyone who joined in on the giveaway. You all left delightful comments and I was really happy to have such an enthusiastic group of jewelry designers take note of this fine book.

Kristen, I will be writing you, but please send your actual address to my email address: jyatesnewyork@aol.com

and I will be so pleased to send you your copy of this wonderful, innovative, new book!

Thank you all,  jean xox

 Here I am wearing the incredibly BEAUTIFUL PENDANT  which Lisa made--here is her store link:  and sent to me. I am so overwhelmed by her artfulness and her joyous wire work, as well as the amazing and unique hand carved pendant which her father brought back to her when she was a little girl. It is from Haiti.

I feel completely overcome with emotion to have a friend like Lisa . She has helped me on my diet as well and included the "missing link" for that: a walking tape she loves herslf, by Leslie Sansone. I was looking at all the tapes on Amazon.com last week  because I am ready to take that first step and start exercising. It wasn't so long ago I could hardly walk, with arthritis and fibromyalgia. I didn't mention this too much. I am much better now, and the weight loss has also helped! I am back to my regular weight.

OK so I am turning 60. BRING IT ON!!!  With friends like Lisa Faeth, who have faith in me, I can handle it!

THANK YOU LISA, FOR EVERYTHING! HUGS AND XOX'S,

-- your forever friend, jean

Ruby Tuesday, a Blythe Cassis, on our playset

BEADBLOGGERS!

Beads & Books
Share the name of your favorite glass beadmaker for a chance to win a copy of the book Creating Glass Beads.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Come take a look at Cindy's charming experiments!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the fab new book by wonderful Margot Potter, New Dimensions in Bead and Wire Jewelry. PLUS, she has a GIVEAWAY of this super book! Race like a bunny to Jean's blog for all the information! You won't be sorry! 

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene shares her review and enthusiasm for Maggie Meister's Classical Elegance bead weaving book.  

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew reveals the August Reader's Challenge Design Kit filled with sizzling summer reds!  

A Bead A Day
Do you ever get caught up just gazing at swarovski crystals? Lisa at A Bead A Day has a tendency to do that too! Stop over for a chance to win one for yourself!  

About.com Jewelry Making
Here are some recipes and tutorials for cleaning up your gorgeous jewelry.  

I received an email from Paty Evins two days ago--she has made her first video!  You can find it on her blog! It contains excellent information on what glass lampworking is, very clearly put.

You will also enjoy hearing Patsy's beautiful voice and seeing her gorgeous studio.I highly recommend you go to her link and view her video, which she made with the assistance of her wonderful son. Below the two photos you will see the email she wrote to me :

 

Patsy Evins

My First Glass Lampwork Video Woo Hoo!

By Patsy, on August 2nd, 2011
(Leave a Comment)

It’s been busy around here creating my glass lampwork video. I started it about 2 months ago. My goal was to get more information about lampworking to the general public. It seems nobody in Hallettsville knew what lampworking was and it got me to thinking…. I wonder how many people in general have never heard about lampwork beads either?
So, I decided to make a video, not knowing how involved it would be. Between my son’s expertise with the computer and my knowledge of lampworking, we started writing a script for the video. Trying to figure out what information to include or not, researching information, taking pictures, finding music, writing the script, matching photos with the script and practicing saying the script took way longer than I had envisioned! We’re now in the promotion step… After all that work, I want someone to see it!
So here it is!!! I hope you enjoy it and learn some new things about glass lampworking! And I really would love to hear what you think about the video! Love any suggestions for my next one, too! Hopefully, it won’t take as long to make!
Please share with others! Won’t it be great when everyone knows what a glass lampwork bead is and enjoys wearing them?

this is great! --thanks Patsy!--jean

I love hearing from Ray at Lark and passing on to you all what is up at that terrific publishing company! Here is an email I received yesterday which I would like to share!

beautiful  "Rondo Neckpiece"  see info below

"Dear friend,

We've been very active lately on the Lark Jewelry & Beading blog, with lots
of great content to share with your blog or social media community:

Just posted minutes ago: A free PDF project of the Rondo Neckpiece from
Rachel Nelson-Smith's Bead Riffs:
http://www.larkcrafts.com/jewelry-beading/rondo-neckpiece/

Other recent content includes:

Free project PDF of the Artemisia Earrings from Maggie Meister's Classical
Elegance:
http://bit.ly/kbJLEJ

Special BONUS project for the Fiore Earrings, NOT included in the book, for
Maggie Meister's Classical Elegance:
http://www.larkcrafts.com/jewelry-beading/maggie-meister-bonus-project/

Interview with Maggie Meister:
http://bit.ly/j9Vxt6

Additionally, we've been running two giveaways through OfferPop on Facebook;
basically readers Like our Facebook page and then vote on a "Tug of War"
choice to enter each giveaway:

For Jewelry: Soldering versus cold connections? We're giving away the 2011
books Chains Chains Chains and 30-Minute Rings.
http://www.facebook.com/LarkJewelryBeading?sk=app_153839431317646

For Beading: Stringing versus beadweaving? We're giving away the 2011 books
Maggie Meister's Classical Elegance and A Bounty of Bead & Wire Earrings.
http://www.facebook.com/LarkJewelryBeading?sk=app_163329473692194

(Both OfferPop contests end Friday, Aug. 5, at noon EST.)

Thank you very much for your support!

All best, Ray"

---

Find us: http://www.facebook.com/LarkJewelryBeading

How great is all that news??? --jean!

Lisa of Alla Moda Fishy Face has found a way to bring us even closer than just being in touch all around the world via internet. Take a minute to understand the simple pleasue of receiving an actual letter from a faraway place and how it can enhance the love and joy you get from you internet relationships.
That is what "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Journal" is all about!

I read Lisa' blog this morning and was delighted to see that we are rolling with this, starting today:
 she said,

Here it is… Woot!… Woot!… The Sisterhood of the Traveling Journal…

Posted on August 2, 2011 by fishyfacedesigns.wordpress.com| Leave a comment

I am so excited about this guys… couldn’t wait to tell you. Here are the details that we have come up with! Woot! Woot! I have the journal and it is being mailed out today (08/02/2011)  along with a letter to Erin… Erin will sign the journal and forward a letter to Jean … Jean will sign the journal and forward a letter to Amberr…
Now… Mr Fishy put a button on our blog that says “Sisterhood of the Traveling Journal”… it will take you to a page were you add your name and e-mail address on the page’s comment section on the bottom so they know where to send the letter and journal next. So we can keep this thing going! I hope the journal travels the world!
I would like to ask you to please send the journal back to me when it its full and I will send out a new one! I believe this is going to be so interesting… Woot Woot! I am so excited!
The only other things I ask is when you send the journal off or receive it please update the “Sisterhood of the Traveling Journal” page so we can follow it’s journey… Now if you would like to post pictures of the journal that would be fun fun fun!
So today the journal leaves South Carolina headed for Oklahoma…
Please join in!"

I am so ready and looking forward to getting the journal and writing my letter. I haven't gotten a good letter  from anyone in AGES! This is going to be so fun!--jean  PLEASE JOIN IN!

 Bead Soup Blog Party registration takes place Aug 1-3

 

 

 

Hooray! It is finally time to sign up!!! Details below!

 

from Lori:

 

 

For those who aren't familiar:

This is the third one in two years, and Kalmbach book has picked it up for publication in October 2012.

Registration begins on http://www.prettythingsblog.com/ tomorrow, with all the parameters marked there. Basically, you get a partner, exchange a set of beads, and you MUST send a focal and a toggle (and you don't have to make them) along with coordinating beads, but not enough for a kit. The idea is to expand you horizons.

The cool thing is, people get discovered during the blog hop, which takes place September 17th. People's blog numbers and followers increase. People who DO make beads and components experience increased sales. Some people have been approached by magazines. My book came about when an editor approached ME. So you never know who will be watching.

If you are interested, sign ups are August 1-3 at http://www.prettythingsblog.com/ and are open internationally. We had over 200 participants last year.

Also, right now I have over 1200 Followers on my blog, so you'd get decent exposure.

I hope some of you will want to join!

Thanks for listening.

Lori

 

Yay Lori--it is SO FUN!!! --jean