Bead Lola Bead

I Heart Macro 1/29/12

2012-01-29T21:18:00.003-06:00

Today is my mom's birthday . . . she would have been 73. Although I miss her very much, I still feel connected to her in so many ways. One of those ways is with daisies. Daisies were her flower . . . you'd see a daisy, you'd think of my mom. Always.

We've been in our current home for sixteen years now and I never once planted daisies. Neither had my neighbor who lived here for 20 plus years before us. A year after my mom passed away, daisies just seemed to pop out of nowhere in our adjoining garden.

Not just one or two daisies, but more like fifty of them!

They even came back the next year. The year after that, however, not one single daisy. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't feeling disappointed . . . until one day when my sister called to say, "Guess who has daisies in her garden?" Right next to the house in a spot where flowers never grew before.

I can't wait to see where those daisies will pop up this year . . .

(PS--These shots were taken the summer of 2010--my yard is currently WHITE!)

fill in the blank friday.

2012-01-27T17:59:00.001-06:00

It's been so long since I posted here that I started blogging in my dreams last night! Unfortunately the topics in my dreams were the crazy I-can't-believe-people-are-wearing-purple-turkeys-as-hats kind, so it's not like I was able to actually accomplished anything. Lucky for me it's

[over at the little things we do blog]

Sometimes it's just nice to have some prompts to get the ball rolling . . .

*****

1. My favorite place I've ever traveled to is . . . I can't say that I have a favorite since most of my traveling involves visiting family and friends. For me it's less about location, location, location, and more about fun, friendship, and love.

2. Australia . . . is somewhere I'd love to go someday.

3. I pass the time on a plane (or bus, or car ride or train) by . . . reading, listening to music and napping.

4. My three must-haves when I travel are . . . my Kindle, my phone and my Pashmina.

5. My favorite travel companion is . . . me. For the past few years my travels have doubled as getaways. Although I love my family, it's nice to take a few days every now and then and only think of and for myself.

6. The craziest thing that ever happened to me while traveling is . . . when I was young and traveling to Europe with my mom and sister, our plane hit severe turbulence that caused a bit of pandemonium among the passengers. While many were audibly panicking and desperately searching for that complimentary little white bag, I was enjoying what I thought was the best roller coaster ride EVER! By the time our pilot maneuvered the plane out of the turbulence and the passengers calmed down, I was informed by the flight attendant that I was only one on that 747 that actually ended up using that little white bag. I got my first airline wings that day. =D

7. The most exotic food I've ever tried while traveling is . . . Rocky Mountain Oysters. Unsuspectingly I might add.

8. If I could live anywhere else, I'd live in . . . Hawaii. It's just so beautiful and colorful there.

9. I have been to . . . sixteen states in the U.S.

*****
I hope to be back on track with my blogging and my creating next week. I've been in a bit of a funk lately and I'm working hard to shake it off. Until then, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

I Heart Macro 1/8/12

2012-01-08T16:40:00.001-06:00

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." Well, at least that's what I'm banking on. I've already been to the doctor twice for a sinus infection that turned into bronchitis and that yesterday turned into pink eye, and I refuse to have to go back for anything else. So, I'm eating apples . . . and lots of them. I like my doctor -- she's awesome -- but I don't want to see her all the time.

The apples I'm consuming right now are Ambrosia apples. They are at that perfect state of crispy juiciness and I can't get enough of them.

I've been sick for nine days now and am soooooooo ready to shake this. C'mon apples . . . do your thing!

(ps -- does anyone else see the little puppy I inadvertently created with my bite, or have I completely lost my mind?)

One Little Word 2012

2012-01-03T13:31:00.176-06:00

Last year I participated in Ali Edwards' One Little Word. It was my first time choosing a word for the year and it seemed to take me forever to finally settle on the word "RECEIVE." Thankfully, the word served me well throughout 2011 and worked to keep me open to learning from the people, experiences, opportunities and lessons ~ both good and not so good ~ that entered my life. The gifts were limitless. Some even overwhelming. Strung together, they worked to make me a better, more grateful person.

As I compare last year's One Little Word experience to the New Year's Resolution experiences of years gone by, I realize that my One Little Word held far more possibilities than all the resolutions I could come up with. With my resolutions, only success or failure was possible. With my One Little Word, anything was possible.

That is why this year I'm once again going the One Little Word route. As I perused the words used by last year's participants for some ideas, the moment my eyes landed on "SPARKLE" I knew it was the word for me! I mean why not have a sparkly life to match some of my sparkly jewelry?!?!?!?!

SPARKLE

To shine or glisten with little gleams of light, as a brilliant gem

to effervesce

to be brilliant, lively, vivacious

to cause to sparkle

The last part -- to cause to sparkle -- is my favorite. Yes, I want my life to sparkle, but I also want others' lives to sparkle too. I want to create sparkle, not just in jewelry for others to wear, but in spirit for others to hold, carry and pass on.

[image source]

Do YOU have One Little Word? If so, what is it? If not, what would you like it to be? Although I won't be taking Ali's class again this year (I'm just going to follow last year's prompts), if you like the idea of One Little Word and are interested in a creative way of focusing on your word throughout the year, check out Ali Edwards' One Little Word blog posts here and get class and registration information with Big Picture Classes here. I really enjoyed last year's class and found Ali to be an authentic, organized, live-in-the-moment inspiration.

Sparkle On! *♥*

I Heart Macro 1/1/12

2012-01-01T22:58:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I have been a fan for quite a while now of all of the I Heart Macro posts that several of the blogs I follow share on a weekly basis. This year I've decided to join in on the fun!

This, my friends, is was the best shrimp scampi my husband has made to date. I'm so glad I took this picture when I did because they did not last long at all. I never thought we'd find one dish that all three of our kids loved, but alas, on January 1st of 2012 we have. Who knew my teenagers had such exquisite taste!

I can't wait to see what other surprises the New Year has in store for all of us!

Happy 2012 ♥

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-24T21:12:00.000-06:00

(picture created by my daughter -- snowman pendant created by my friend Therese)

Day #6 ~ Virtual Craft Show

2011-12-01T21:20:00.002-06:00

So many responsibilities . . . so little time! I can't believe it's Day #6 of the Virtual Craft Show! After checking out days 4 and 5 as well, I'm finally caught up and I gotta say . . . the talent and creativity of the artists in this show is crazy awesome! Someday, if when I grow up, I want to be just like them. Until then, it's back to working on building my inventory for the holidays . . .

If you haven't had a chance to check out any days of the show yet, here are the links to get you to it:

Day #1 -- Day #2 -- Day #3 -- Day #4 -- Day #5 -- Day #6

Tomorrow is the last day of show and the last day to utilize some of the discount codes that were offered, so don't pass up the chance to purchase that something-something that caught your eye! =D

Happy Shopping!

Day #3 ~ Virtual Craft Fair

2011-11-28T18:32:00.000-06:00

It's Day #3 of the Virtual Craft Show! This week is flying by! Please check out this post on Lori Anderson's Pretty Things Blog when you can and, if you like what you see, comment and spread the word for chances to win.

As always, the daily giveaways are awesome, but the "mega-giveaway" by Wendy Blum has my heart beating juuuuust a little bit faster . . . =D

Day #2 ~ Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-27T08:51:00.000-06:00

It's Day #2 of the Virtual Craft Show and my shop is one of the ten that are featured! I am so excited! Ten new artists = ten new giveaways so please check out this post on Lori Anderson's Pretty Things Blog when you can and, if you like what you see, comment and spread the word for chances to win.

Today I've got my eye on the magazines being given away by Pam Sears, the holiday beads by Sue Kennedy and the polymer clay components by Tania Spivey. There are, however, other lovely giveways as well . . . liiiiiiiiike my rings for example! =D

So go take a peek at today's Virtual Craft Show participants and check out their shops. I'll be adding items throughout the week and throughout the holiday season, so please check back often.

Happy shopping and best of luck for those going for the win!

Day #1 ~ Virtual Craft Show

2011-11-26T08:58:00.002-06:00

It's Day #1 of the Virtual Craft Show and you will not believe the AMAZING items being given away! Please check out this post on Lori Anderson's Pretty Things Blog when you can and, if you like what you see, comment and spread the word for chances to win.

I've got my eye on the DIY Jewlery Making Kit by Melinda Orr Designs and the etched metal caps by Lisa Liddy of Metal Me This. Metal pieces like this have been catching my eye more and more lately . . . I do believe I see a new technique in my future that needs to be learned. . . =D

Plugging Back In

2011-11-23T22:07:00.000-06:00

My real life world took precedence these past two weeks as I visited with my BFF in Texas and then returned home to matters that needed my attention. So many things were going on that I needed to unplug from the blogosphere and, for the sake of my sanity, I had to let some things go.

I let go of my desire to complete a full month of blogging for NaBloPoMo.

I let go of my desire to participate in several design challenges.

I let go of my desire to keep up with my favorite blogs.

I needed to focus on my family and I needed to focus on myself. But now I need to jump back into the blogosphere because The First Annual Virtual Craft Show, organized and hosted by the awesome Lori Anderson, starts in THREE days and I am one of the participants!

The Virtual Craft Show lasts for 7 Days and consists of 70 Artists who are GIVING AWAY 70 things!!!! How awesome is that?!?!?!

So go to Lori's Pretty Things Blog, bookmark it, and plan to visit it each of the 7 days so you can enter to win one of the giveaways as well as start your holiday shopping. And while you're getting ready to do that, I will be crafting my little heart out in preparation.

See you at the show!

Vintage Victor

2011-11-07T03:54:00.002-06:00

So . . . who gets to play with some beads from Vintage Beads from Europe? I wrote down the names of all who commented on the giveaway post, and then had my daughter blindly "pick a card -- any card!"

She picked . . .

Congratulations Deb of Beetique!!! I hope you enjoy playing with these beads as much as I did!

Last Day for the Vintage Beads Giveaway . . .

2011-11-06T07:43:00.001-06:00

Today is the last day to leave a comment on this post for a chance to receive the remaining beads from Vintage Beads from Europe that were generously given to me by Vente.

I will pick a name late tonight, so if you're interested, comment here today.

Bead the Possibilities! ~ Lola

House Cleaning Recession

2011-11-05T23:33:00.000-05:00

It used to be that at the end of a good cleaning day I was able to walk away with enough lost or forgotten change to buy myself a cup of coffee at McDonald's. Today I only found $.80.

Although I'm glad the family is being more conscientious about their money, I'm a little disappointed that I came up short.

Yes, the coffee will be just as flavorful when I make up the difference, but it definitely will not be as sweet. =D

Baby, Say it Ain't So!

2011-11-04T23:58:00.000-05:00

See this face?

This wide-eyed, full-of-possibilities face?

Well, a slightly older version of this face spent the morning taking her high school placement test. How is it possible that my baby will be going to high school next year? Oh sure, I already have two other babies in high school, but this is my baby baby . . . and I'm just not ready to let her go.

But let her go, I must . . . it's her turn. Fortuntely, we've still got quite a few 8th grade milestones to enjoy. So instead of worrying about it all now, I thought it best to simply enjoy the day with my daughter.

Slow and Steady

2011-11-03T23:52:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I decided to forego a quick drive home on the freeway for a slower, more colorful route.

Totally worth the extra time . . .

"Vintage Beads From Europe"

2011-11-02T18:37:00.004-05:00

A while ago the lovely and generous Vente of Vintage Beads from Europe sent me a sampling of her beads to play with and write about.

Although I'm not one to seek out vintage beads, I found a comforting familiarity with these as I sorted through all the wonderful colors.

When I realized the comforting familiarity stemmed from my own vintage status, well I had to laugh.

And then I had to make something. So I picked out two sets of beads I couldn't resist, and made myself some earrings.

They're as light as they are beautiful, and quickly becoming favorites.

Would you like to make some vintage bead designs of your own with the remainder of this delightful stash? In keeping with Vente's generous spirit, I'd love to pass these beads on to someone who either already loves vintage or someone who, like me, is new to it. If you're interested, please leave a comment below, and I will pick a winner on Sunday, November 6th.

Bead the Possibilities! ~ Lola

Welcome November!

2011-11-01T23:55:00.001-05:00

I look forward to November the way others look forward to the holidays, or the beginning of a new sports season, or the beginning of a new year.

The crisp cool air and the explosion of color on the trees awaken my senses and open my eyes. I see the potential. I celebrate the possibilities. I get goosebumps dreaming of all that can be.

I don't know what it is about November -- maybe it's simply the fact that it's my birthday month -- but I welcome it and plan to enjoy every minute.

When the Internet and Real Life Meet

2011-10-28T10:56:00.002-05:00

In the beading/jewelry/design world, the Internet and reality most often meet in some bead-related setting such as a bead show or bead class. For my Bead Soup Blog Party partner Therese and I, it was at the Eclectica bead store in Brookfield, Wisconsin that our fast and easy online friendship turned into a couple of hours of bead shopping, lunch and fun-filled conversation.

And for me, it also involved some beautiful surprises. Check these out . . .

Therese made this pendant by transferring a favorite image of hers onto polymer clay using t-shirt transfer paper.

You can check out her process here.

This beautiful bracelet and the earrings below, are made with lamp work beads Therese purchased from Julsbeads. The purple crystals really bring out the purple on the lamp work beads.

And the fact that Therese remembered that purple was my favorite color? Well, that has to do with the fact that she's a very thoughtful and generous person. Whether you know her from online conversation or from those had in person, her kindhearted spirit always shines through.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to have met Therese in person, and even more grateful that she took the time to make the three-hour round trip my way during her visit to Wisconsin. Not only do I have lovely memories from our short, but delightful visit, but I also have some beautiful treasures ~ Therese's Treasures as a matter of fact ~ from a very beautiful friend.

"Sand Fibers" is Rockin' it on Etsy!!!

2011-10-23T23:30:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite shops on Etsy ~ Sand Fibers ~ has hit a 3100+ sales milestone and is sharing the joy by hosting an awesome giveaway on her blog! If you are not familiar with the work of Carol Dean Sharpe, please check out her Etsy shop. I promise . . . you will not be disappointed. And, if I'm right and you like what you see, please head on over to her blog to enter for a chance to win one of several amazing gifts.

But hurry . . . you only have until midnight tomorrow -- Monday, October 24th.

Good luck!

Very Vintage Fall Challenge Blog Hop

2011-10-04T06:00:00.002-05:00

I haven't even finished hopping on over to all of the Bead Soup Blog Party blogs, and here I am again, smack dab in the middle of yet another hop! What can I say . . . I'm a hop-a-holic addicted to the thrill of design challenges and being pushed out of my comfort zone. And now, thanks to Michelle Mach and her Fall Challenge, I'm also officially addicted to vintage beads and Vintaj products.

These beautiful components are light, airy, fragile and very much unlike the larger stones and glass beads I ordinarily use. I couldn't immediately envision a bracelet or necklace design, but I could definitely see some earrings.

Simple, yes, but I LOVE these yellow earrings! I also love how the Vintaj component makes the yellow leaf appear more golden.

These mulberry leaf earrings make me happy. I love the pop of color the small, but powerful Lucite orange beads add to the piece.

Now that the earrings were done, it was time to figure out what to do with the Vintaj branch I received -- the one component I did NOT want to use. Not because it wasn't lovely, but because I had NO CLUE what to do with it! There weren't any holes in it! No obvious answer as to which direction to take! And although it did seem to take FOREVER to get there, I did come up with a necklace design with removable charms:

I prefer rings, earrings and bracelets when it comes to jewelry, but this is a necklace I will actually wear this season. I love the Fall colors (my favorite time of year, by the way), the versatility of the charms and how the longer length of chain adds the much-loved element of movement to the piece.

You know what else I love? That 28 other bloggers have taken on the same challenge and have also posted their creations on their blogs! Hop right this way! =D

Andrew ~ The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Cat ~ Boo Beads
Chris ~ beadjewelry.net
Cilla ~ Tell Your Girlfriends
Cyndi ~ Beading Arts
Cynthia ~ Cynth's Blog
Dawn ~ Morning Glory Beading
Donetta ~ Simply Gorgeous
Heather ~ As I Bead It
Holly ~ SilverRose Designs
Kate ~ We Can Make That at Home
Kristina ~ Wild Roses and Blackberries
Lauren ~ Laurel Moon Jewelry & Beads
Linda ~ Lutka & Co
Lisa ~ Lucid Mood Studio
Lola [YOU ARE HERE] ~ Bead Lola Bead
Mary ~ MLH Jewelry
Melinda ~ Melinda Orr Metal & Clay Jewelry Designs
Michelle H. ~ Firefly Visions
Michelle M. [OUR AWESOME HOSTESS] ~ Beads & Books
Salla ~ Blog by Salla
Shannon ~ Falling into the Sky
Shay ~ Shaiha's Ramblings
Shel ~ MiShel Designs
Shirley ~ Beads and Bread
Stephanie ~ Pixybug Designs
Tari ~ Pearl and Pebbles
Terry ~ Pink Chapeau Vintage Jewelry
Tracy ~ The Bead Junkie

From D'OH to DIY . . .

2011-10-01T22:02:00.002-05:00

It appears I've passed the forehead-slapping, Homer-Simpson "D'OH" gene I mentioned in my last post onto my oldest child. Genetics is funny that way!

You see, today is my son's high school homecoming. As I type this, he is off enjoying the fruits of his labor as a homecoming committee member. Because his attention was so focused on getting things ready for the 70's themed dance (a decade my 16 year-old is inexplicably drawn to), he completely forgot about getting a wrist corsage for his date.

Being the "D'OH" gene carrier that I am, I, of course, wasn't ready for this . . . even though it happened exactly this way LAST year! Thankfully, I had a bit of experience on my side and was able to whip this up after about three or four attempts:

Oh, and I totally get bonus points for finding Gerbera daisies that not only (hopefully) match his date's "peachy pink" dress, but also match the crazy red table-cloth-like suit that someone convinced him he HAD to wear!

Sometimes a D'OH moment is just a DIY opportunity in disguise! Of course that's not what I was thinking as I was running around getting all the necessary bits and pieces, but time has a way of changing ones perspective . . . and of unclenching ones jaw. =D

Bead Soup Blog Party . . . Reflection

2011-09-24T22:11:00.011-05:00

***** If you’re still blog hopping like I am, here’s the link to my reveal post *****

It’s been a week since all the Bead Soup Blog Party peeps revealed their designs, and some serious blog hopping began. Things have definitely slowed down, but I am still plugging along until I visit each and every blog. Although I’m only half way through the hopping process, I already know two things I will be doing differently next time.

One: I will not lose my mind thinking that I have to use the focal and the clasp IN THE SAME PIECE. I knew we could make more than one piece, but when it came to the clasp and focal, the IN-THE-SAME-PIECE part was my own inadvertent, self-imposed restriction. I don’t know when, where, how or why I boxed myself in like that, but when I saw that other party goers used those two components in two separate pieces, I had a major forehead-slapping, Homer-Simpson "D'OH!" moment.

[link to image]

Although I think I did a good job of showcasing the gorgeous focal and clasp my partner Therese sent me, I believe each component deserved to be its own superstar. Live and learn, right?

Two: I will personalize the bead soup mix I send out to my partner with unique elements and components made by me. Although I have no idea exactly what that would consist of, those bloggers who included their own handcrafted beads, metal components and/or focal pieces into the soups they shared with others, ignited a desire in me to be just like them if when I grow up! Seriously, there is some crazy awesome talent out there, and I have got oh-so-much to learn!

So, while I’m finishing my blog hopping, and dreaming about handcrafting my own components, I hope you’ll be enjoying the remainder of the weekend and dreaming about whatever it is that makes you happy!

Happy dreaming and creating!

It's Party Time!!! The Bead Soup Blog Party Hop Begins!!!

2011-09-17T00:26:00.003-05:00

Well, today's the big day and I am SO looking forward to some serious blog hopping this weekend! But I have to tell you . . . I'm really nervous about my reveal. Although I tried my best to be "creatively clever" (with disasterous results, by the way), I kept coming back to the same two simple, yet elegant designs I started with. The more I looked at the beautiful beads my partner Therese of Therese's Treasures sent me, the more I realized that I simply needed to showcase them -- not distract from them with some overly busy design. I hope you will agree . . .

So, without further ado, this is my bead soup from Therese . . .

And these are my final designs . . .

The first piece is a bracelet that is comprised of the cherry quartz focal, hematite toggle and hematite spacer beads that were part of the soup, along with some hematite chips I added from my own stash. Although most of the bracelet is hematite, I love the depth the different textures add. I also love how the carved cherry quartz adds even more depth and the perfect pop of color.

The second piece is a simple, wire-wrapped necklace that can be tripled to also work as a bracelet. I love the versatility of this piece and how well the pink quartz and green, glass bicone beads work with my favorite new medium: steel wire from the hardware store! A definite win-win as far as I'm concerned!

I really like both of these pieces and intend to wear them often. And each time I do, I will be reminded of my very first BSBP and the pleasure of sharing the experience with Therese. Jewelry and friendship. Really, what more do you need? =D Thanks Therese for the beautiful beads and for being such a delightful partner! I can't wait to see your creations!

And thank you to all you blog hoppers out there (and I mean that in a way that is much, much nicer than it sounds) for stopping by. Before you move on to the extensive list of BSBP blogs, please visit Therese's blog Therese's Treasures to see her designs. Although I have yet to see what she came up with, I am confident she will not dissapoint! Update: Not surprisingly, I love the pieces she made! Well played, partner . . . well played!

Happy Hopping! =D

(Oh, and if anyone asks, Lori Anderson is a ROCK STAR! Thanks for EVERYTHING Lori!!!)

Click here for links to the blogs of the other participants.

Back to School Reality

2011-08-31T13:25:00.000-05:00

I am shutting out the reality of my life, i.e. the new school year, just long enough to write a quick blog post. If I don’t do it today (like I meant to do yesterday, and the day before that, and the week before that) I may never blog again! Okay, that’s a bit dramatic perhaps, but the more I blog . . . well, the more I blog.

The moment the school year began last Friday, we hit the ground running. School shopping, car pools (my car was in the shop for a few days to spice up the adventure a bit), after-school activities, and homework . . . the fun never seems to end when you have three kids!

Add to that the fact that the first two months of the school year are my most hectic as the volleyball scorekeeping coordinator at my daughter’s school, and I haven’t touched a bead (excluding the withdrawal beads of sweat on my upper lip) or blogged in over a week.

I do not like the kind of busy that keeps me from my beads!

So I have a plan. Today I’m making several dinners for the week, shoe shopping with my oldest, off to the boys’ high school for an evening with all the other incoming freshmen parents, and cleaning as much of the house as I can.

Tomorrow, I’m playing with my beads . . . aaaaall daaaaaaaaay looooooooong!!!

Woo Hoo!!! =D

[link to image]

It’s a Bead Soup Blog Party, Baby!

2011-08-22T00:16:00.001-05:00

I am SO excited to be participating in the Bead Soup Blog Party hosted by Lori Anderson of Pretty Things! I didn’t really know what to expect as this is my first time participating, but with over 300 people playing along, I can’t believe Lori (with a little help from her friends) paired me with the perfect partner. Not only is Therese Frank, of Therese's Treasures, a BSBP newbie like me, but she’s also drawn to a wide variety of crafts and creative challenges. The fact that she’s a genuinely lovely person is simply a delightful, sparkly accent! =D

Here are the beautiful beads and components Therese sent to me:

The Bead Soup I’ll be working with consists of a carved, cherry quartz focal and accent rounds, hematite toggle clasp and spacers, green glass bi-cones, rose quartz rounds and peridot rounds. I already have some ideas swirling around in my head, but with less than a month before the Blog Hop (where everyone’s designs are revealed) I better get those ideas out of my head and onto my work table.

In the meantime, check out this post on Therese's blog about her very successful polymer clay experiments, and for a picture of the bead soup I sent her. Her work is quite lovely and I can't wait to see the recipe she comes up with! =D

Mostly Metal Blog Hop

2011-08-16T01:30:00.001-05:00

It's here! The Mostly Metal Design Challenge big reveal! Woo Hoo!

Okay, remember what I started with:

Of these items I used the red cord, the two heart halves, and the two coil beads to create a bracelet. I added more metal to the design in the form of spacers, beads and steel wire from the hardware store, with some contrasting shine in the form Czech glass hearts and rondelle beads.

My favorite aspect of this bracelet is the jingly pendant the two heart halves create. The movement and sound make me very happy.

I also like the random knots with the red cord. The center core of the cord is black, so even as it naturally frays it will continue to add character to the piece.

I loved this bracelet so much as I was working on it that it conveniently ended up being sized to fit my wrist perfectly. How about that!

But enough about me! Whaddaya say we head on over to the blogs of the other participants?

This is going to be so much fun! Happy Hopping! =D

Antique Brass Romantic

Donetta (via Michelle's blog)
Michelle (Thank you, Michelle, for putting together this lovely challenge!)
Pam
Shannon
Stephanie
Terry

Filigree Fun

Gunmetal Love

Erin
Heather
Jean
Kelli (via Michelle's blog)
Linda
Lola (You are HERE)

Deadlines Rock!

2011-08-15T22:20:00.000-05:00

I really and truly thought that after (almost) successfully completing the NaBloPoMo challenge in July, I would have spent more time blogging in August. By the looks of those whopping two posts so far this month, I think I may have burned myself out instead. In my defense, though, I was busier than usual these past few weeks. No really, I was! The lazy days of summer went on hiatus as my oldest son worked ten out of the eleven days of the Wisconsin State Fair, and I was his on-call, pay-me-in-deep-fried-foods-on-a-stick-and-cream-puffs chauffer. Two days into the fair my daughter got hit hard by a very nasty virus that had her working through fevers ranging from 100 to 104 degrees for SEVEN consecutive days!!! We rewarded her back-to-normal status today with a painful, two-hour stint in the orthodontist’s chair. Yes, we love her that much.

So, while my kids were doing their thing, I was busy working on two design challenges (more to come on those) and other various time-sensitive projects, all while trying to cope with my whacked out thyroid and perpetual Fibromyalgia flare ups. Some days, just staying alive the entire 24 hours of a day during a flare is all the goal I can set and achieve. Autoimmune diseases really cramp my style.

Deadlines, however? Well, they do a good job of keeping me on track and getting me to push through the pain. Which, to be honest, is something I am very grateful for and why I like to sign up for contests and challenges. I love the beading community and I don’t know that I would be doing as much Bead-Lola-Beading without them! Check out this post by Michelle Mach if you happen to be looking for some motivational opportunities yourself.

Speaking of challenges, tomorrow is the big reveal of the Mostly Metal Design Challenge hosted by Michelle. I really enjoyed this challenge and the materials I was given to work with, and I can't wait to see what everyone created! I'll be posting my own design, along with the links to the blogs of the 17 other participants here tomorrow, so I hope you'll check back then!

Creative Color Wheels

2011-08-09T12:58:00.000-05:00

Remember last month when I signed up for Louise Gale's Creative Color Challenge even though I noted: “I have no idea where I'm going to carve out the time for this, but carve it I shall!”? Yeah, well, um . . . I just couldn’t find the time to do it. With all the balls I had up in the air, this was one I sadly had to drop. The good news, though? Look at all these beauties! Also, check out Louise’s wrap up post which includes her own creative color wheel. A job well done by everyone!

Okay, back to my juggling . . . =D

Tuesday Treasuries

2011-08-02T23:09:00.000-05:00

On a hot day like today, this treasury makes me very, very happy. Fall is my favorite season (I'm a cool weather gal) and those miniature square dessert plates, along with that beautiful mandala window cling, are my personal favorites.

I DID IT!!! (Well, almost . . .)

2011-07-31T20:30:00.000-05:00

I don't quite know what happened yesterday, but I totally forgot to do my daily post! Twenty-nine straight days of blogging and I FORGET on the 30th day -- the second last day of the NaBloPoMo daily blogging challenge? I mean really, ONE stinking day shy of successfully completing the challenge?!? Yup, one stinkin' day.

But . . .

For 30 out of 31 days I DID post something on my blog. I pushed myself. I (rather desperately at times) searched for ideas. I put a little bit more of myself into it. And in the end I realized that I definitely can blog more often, and about more topics, than I used to. I probably won't continue to blog every single day, but I'm thinking I can maintain a several-times-a-week posting schedule. That would definitely be better than my previous once or twice-a-month schedule!

So on this last day of July I want to say thank you NaBloPoMo for the monthly challenges you offer. I'm going to let the lessons of (almost) completing the posting challenge this month settle a bit before I participate again. But I will participate again . . . and I will successfully complete it. I'm thinking February might be a good month for me . . . =D

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-07-29T20:02:00.010-05:00

Thank Goodness it's Fill in the Blank Friday (TGIFITBF!) If you'd like to play along, head on over to the little things we do blog to share your answers!

1. My favorite color is purple.

2. My travel destination of choice is a lake house. A dear friend lives in one in Texas and another dear friend vacations in one in Wisconsin. Fill this lake house with wonderful girlfriends, bottles of wine, cheese, crackers and fruit (add a fire if it’s a cold weather month) and you have the ultimate retreat. Rent a lake house in the summer and fill it with family and BAM! Instant, perfect vacation.

3. My favorite food is ice cream.

4. My happy place is inside a container of ice cream.

5. My favorite saying is “When someone shows you who they are, believe them.” Maya Angelou

6. My dirty little secret is that I can’t tell you . . . because it’s a SECRET.

7. Something friends might say about me is that I am fun to be around.

Happy weekend everyone!! =D

Hopeful

2011-07-28T23:17:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow I start a new med and supplement regimen designed by the naturopathic doctor I'm currently seeing. None of these natural meds have the nausea/sweating/weight gain/etc. side effects of some of the other meds I tried in the past. Also, these meds and supplements are specifically tailored to correct the deficiencies of MY body -- not some unconfirmed diagnosis. My ND is so certain this is going to help me feel better in about a week from now, she asked that I call her if I don't notice any changes by then.

I have been seeing various doctors and have had a battery of tests over the past five years trying to find a reason for, and some relief from, all the pain and weakness I've been experiencing, and now I'm only one week away from potentially feeling better?

Yes, definitely hopeful!

I ♥ Giveaways, Rings & Things and Bead Trends

2011-07-27T23:01:00.000-05:00

Rings & Things is sponsoring a giveaway on the Bead Trends Blog. There are barrettes and tiaras and clips – OH MY! An assortment of hair ornaments are being given away for your embellishing pleasure! Comment here for a chance to win . . . three winners will be announced next Wednesday. Good luck!

Tuesday Treasuries at the Moo Crew Blog

2011-07-26T22:37:00.008-05:00

Isn't this a gorgeous treasury?

I just love it! If you'd like to see more Moo Crew treasures, check out today's post.

Vintage Treasure

2011-07-25T23:50:00.004-05:00

I just finished submitting some designs to Bead Trends magazine for possible publication (fingers crossed), and now for the next few days I'll be working on filling some orders. As soon as I'm done with that, however, I am going to make myself deliriously happy by making something with these gorgeous vintage beads.

Although I normally do not seek out vintage components, I was totally and completely drawn to these beads and could not leave the shop without buying them. As I was checking out I was told these beads were from a vintage 1920's garment. I don't know why this makes me so happy or why I get the chills just thinking about that, but I can't wait to see how lovely they're going to look when they're woven together again . . .

I'm Dreaming of . . .

2011-07-24T23:24:00.003-05:00

. . . a creative workspace like this to call my own! Sigh! Until that dream comes true, I'm working on carving out a section of my basement for a more permanent setup for my beading goodies. If my "after" picture looks half as good as this one (heck an eighth as good as this one), I will be a very, very happy and creative camper.

[image link]

I Give Myself Permission To . . .

2011-07-23T23:27:00.000-05:00

. . . do everything on this list.

[image link]

Procrastinate now . . .

2011-07-22T22:28:00.013-05:00

. . . and panic later. Totally works for me!

[image link]

If I Play My Cards Right . . .

2011-07-21T23:38:00.004-05:00

. . . I may never have to cook again! =D

Beaded Cards

2011-07-20T22:11:00.001-05:00

I've always had a love of beads and beaded items, well before I even began to "Bead Lola Bead!" I love the way beaded fringe feels when I run my hand along it, the raised bumps on a beaded cross stitch motif, the supple, fabric-y feel and movement of bead woven items and the glistening beaded accents on a beautifully crocheted accessory. In the past I merely appreciated it when I saw it. Now I'm obsessed with creating it. All I seem to think about these days is "How can I add beads to that?" Especially tiny beads. In patterns.

Enter scrapbook paper. Oh how it has changed my beaded world. I don't know if it's the meditative mandala effect of beading a pattern repeatedly or the wonderful feel of it in my hands, but I just can't seem to stop beading the same blue/green flower. Although I have other scrapbook pages waiting for their own personal embellishment, this one keeps calling me back to it.

Who knew something so simple could be so delightful?

Creative Color Wheel Challenge

2011-07-19T19:39:00.022-05:00

[link]

Although I have a few too many deadlines to contend with over the next few weeks, I could not stop myself from signing up for Louise Gale's current Creative Color Challenge. I really enjoyed participating in the Ornament Swap she hosted last year (you can see my posts about that here, here, here, here and here), but I totally missed her Spring color challenge. Not this time! I have no idea where I'm going to carve out the time for this, but carve it I shall!

I hope you'll carve out some time too and play along. Sign up here!

Crochet Wallets with Beads (of course)

2011-07-18T23:47:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I haven't made any of these yet this summer. Shame on me! I'll have to start making some in fall and holiday colors. They're great for gift cards, credit cards and business cards. Pick a card, any card! =D

Mostly Metal Bits and Pieces

2011-07-17T23:21:00.008-05:00

These are the bits and pieces I received for the Mostly Metal Design Challenge, being hosted by Michelle.

My Gunmetal Love Kit consists of 2 coiled rounds, 2 hollow-back heart charms, 1 "our hearts beat as one" pendant, 1 split ring, 2 bead caps, 2 strands of dark red cord, one pink cabochon and 6 glass beads.

According to the rules of the challenge I can use any or all of the components in the kit, while also adding from my own personal bead stash. Seventeen other people are participating in this challenge, with five other people using the same gunmetal components that I have. I can't wait until the middle of August for the Blog Tour that will reveal all of the participants and their designs!

Until then however, I can't share any of the ideas I have swirling around in my head. It has to be a surprise. =D

Made Just For You

2011-07-16T23:43:00.004-05:00

The thing I like most about making jewelry is fulfilling special requests. Whether they're personalized bracelets or simply a favorite color or stone for someone special, I really love being a part of that process.

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-07-15T20:41:00.009-05:00

Happy Fill in the Blank Friday!

1. I am a (morning, evening, middle of the day person) night owl! I love the hours of 10pm to 2am and can really only enjoy them during the summer months when the kids are off from school. Sleeping in until 10am is the other brilliant half of being a night owl!

2. My favorite Pandora stations are only Nickelback so far.

3. 3 of my "must-have" songs for a road trip playlist are Head East’s Never Been Any Reason; Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody and any and all Nickelback songs.

4. My favorite pattern is one that catches my eye. I don’t prefer any one type of pattern per se, but I do like patterns that are bold and colorful.

5. My favorite perfume is Lola by Marc Jacobs, OF COURSE!

6. Rules are more like “guidelines.”

7. My most overused phrase or punctuation is "Stop it!!!!!!!!" with excessive exclamation marks. Hey, I have three teenage kids who try to kill each other at least once a day.

Have a Happy Weekend! =D

Coffee as Fuel

2011-07-14T23:27:00.005-05:00

I really love coffee. The smell, the taste, the way the creamer swirls in it to reveal a lovely caramel color, the caffeine -- all of it. It's really very much a part of my morning and sometimes even afternoon routine.

So today when I was not allowed to have coffee because of some testing . . . well, I was NOT a happy camper. Nor was I an energetic camper either because not only does "America Run on Dunkin" but apparently Lola does too!

And that is why I'm looking forward to tomorrow morning when I can fire up the coffee pot and start my day the right way: with a nice strong cup of coffee embellished with a bit of cream and sweetener.

Instead of sugar plums dancing in my head tonight, it will be coffee beans jumping about in my coffee grinder.

30 Minute Rings

2011-07-13T23:47:00.002-05:00

I am so excited! I won a book all about my favorite piece of jewelry -- RINGS!

It's called 30 Minute Rings, by Lark Books, and I can't wait to take in all 136 pages of it!

Thank you Cyndi for the generous giveaway.

Birthday Beading

2011-07-12T23:57:00.005-05:00

Gifts I made for my friend Vera's birthday with Gilded Marble Turquoise 11/0 Toho Seed Beads:

Happy Birthday Vera!

Rainy Days and Mondays

2011-07-11T08:43:00.003-05:00

I started my day with a cup of coffee and a nature show.

Oh, how I love thunderstorms! I'll worry about all the errands I have to run later . . .

BBQ Dessert

2011-07-10T21:08:00.006-05:00

My husband loves to barbecue and often tries new recipes. Not simple recipes, mind you, but complicated ones where wood chip flavors and charcoal placement/temperature are critical to the outcome. He's even made some very delicious homemade pizza on the grill.

Although today's grilling adventure was a lot less complicated than usual, it took our evening dessert to a whole new level. A simple hot fudge sundae became quite the fancy treat when you add grilled pineapple and bananas.

The pineapples were enhanced with brown sugar and cinnamon and tasted very much like baked apples.

The Bananas with Coconut-Caramel Sauce, a recipe from Thailand, were AMAZING with the ice cream!

Thankfully, there's enough left over to enjoy again tomorrow.

Saturday Crafternoon

2011-07-09T23:43:00.015-05:00

Today I enjoyed an hour-long drive out to my friend Brenda's house for an afternoon of creativity.

As I worked and reworked some fine thread crochet motifs, Brenda worked and reworked the details of this beautiful painting.

The sunroom we worked in opens up onto this beautiful, peaceful deck.

And these beautiful flowers.

By the end of our "crafternoon" I was as happy as this Buddha.

You'd be too if you spent your day here. All you need to recreate this blissful experience for yourself is a sunny summer day, a beautiful garden, a perfect breeze and beautiful, deep-toned wind chimes.

Heaven on earth.

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-07-08T21:18:00.005-05:00

Fill in the Blank Friday! Here goes . . .

1. My plans this summer include rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. As a mom of three kids, the school year is a very busy time, while in summer, everything s-l-o-w-s down – including me. I’m enjoying the slower pace and taking more time for myself.

2. The best summer I ever had was every summer I ever had! Seriously, I LOVE this time of year.

3. Summer is BBQs, s’mores, tents, sprinklers, bug spray, pools, water balloons, Frisbees, water slides, ice cream, watermelons, peaches, tents, lightning bugs, staying up really, really late, sleeping in ‘til noon, going nowhere fast . . .

4. My favorite summer food is a peach. It reminds me of my childhood summers spent at the lake with my family. My mom always had peaches in the cooler and biting into one after hours of frolicking in the water was just the most delicious treat.

5. The best way to quench a summer thirst is with water. Nothing quenches my thirst like water. That being said, I consider a margarita to be an excellent back up plan!

6. My summer uniform consists of sandals, capris, shirt and jewelry.

7. The best thing about summer is the lazy days, of course!

Have a happy weekend!

Mostly Metal Design Challenge

2011-07-07T21:29:00.009-05:00

I just signed up for the Mostly Metal Design Challenge, being hosted by Michelle Mach, by snagging one of the last available kits. WOO HOO! I have never done a challenge like this before and am so very excited about stepping outside of my design comfort zone. How far out, you ask? Gunmetal far out, baby! I have no idea what I'm going to make yet, but I'm already having fun considering the possibilities!

Summer Fruit

2011-07-06T22:53:00.010-05:00

We take the purchase, consumption and, yes, even the transport of our summer fruit very, very seriously. A beaded watermelon cozy can't be that far behind . . .

Tuesday Treasuries

2011-07-05T17:10:00.003-05:00

The theme this week for The Wisconsin Street Team's Tuesday Treasuries challenge was to focus on one color. With purple being my favorite color and our team being a very creative group of artisans, it was easy to come up with this beautiful treasury:

As for this color challenge winning treasury, I love it not only for the beautiful orange theme, but also for its clever title:

And this summery Turquoise Beauty features one of my rings:

Thank you Ellie for challenging our team! I look forward to next week's challenge!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T21:53:00.000-05:00

I Kept Calm . . .

2011-07-03T21:57:00.003-05:00

. . . while my hubby grilled on.

From KeepCalmArsenal on Etsy.

This perfectly sums up our day today.

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-07-01T12:33:00.011-05:00

My very first Fill in the Blank Friday! Here goes . . .

1. The best news I ever received was that my 10 year-old daughter would be okay after getting hit in the mouth with a baseball bat and losing three of her top front, fairly new adult teeth. Bonus: watching her handle all the pain, stitches, and dental reconstruction with an amazing amount of humor and strength.

2. Something I'm looking forward to is catching up with friends this afternoon as our kids swim and laugh the afternoon away.

3. Something I would never do is bungee jump. {{shudder}}

4. If I could choose someone to be my life coach (famous or not, living or dead), I'd choose Oprah. Not only would I learn a lot from her, but I think she would be an awful lot of fun to be around. Also, I’d want her to say my name before each coaching session in her one-of-a-kind “please welcome LOOOOOOLAAAAAAAA” intro voice.

5. If I had to put a label on my style it would be camouflage. Gotta keep those flabby bits covered, while redirecting onlookers' line of vision toward some seriously sparkly bling.

6. One should always have a grateful heart.

7. I want to swim in the Adriatic Sea. I was two years old the last time I did that, and for some reason am continually drawn to doing it again.

Have a great weekend everyone and a very Happy 4th of July!

Blogging Boot Camp

2011-06-30T23:43:00.008-05:00

I just signed up for NaBloPoMo for the month of July. Just as you learn a foreign language faster by immersing yourself in it, I hope to become a better blogger by committing to post something everyday throughout the month of July. I make no promises as to the quality of these posts, nor even as to their relevance to beading, but I can promise my commitment to finding a blogging voice that best represents me. {fingers crossed} I hope it's a good one . . .

Nature's Guidance

2011-05-20T06:12:00.008-05:00

Here's the bracelet the tulip in my last post inspired.

I love how nature has all the answers . . .

Mayday! Mayday!

2011-05-17T04:55:00.014-05:00

What a crazy busy couple of months it has been! It seems as though all I do is blink and *POOF* another month has gone by! As an organizationally challenged individual, I find that extreme levels of activity and busyness jam my creative signals and shift me into survival mode. I don’t do well in survival mode. It just isn’t any fun there.

So this month I’ve been working diligently on finding new and creative ways to rein in the chaos. First stop: my calendar. I gave up on the computer generated version I was (unsuccessfully) using before, and now print out a blank calendar and use different colored markers to hand write the daily appointments and activities. What a difference a few colorful markers can make!!!

Now, instead of reading uniform calendar entries and trying to organize them in my head (bad, bad, BAD idea), my May entries are in full, colorful bloom and are instantly informative: blue is for baseball and recycling, green is for soccer and garbage pick up, red and orange are school related items, etc. Who knew such a small change could be so liberating! I find the definitive colors to be calming and effective in allowing me to quickly identify the details of the day.

I also find that spending less time worrying about forgetting to do something, means I have more time to focus on actually doing something. Like BEADING!!!!! And that makes me very, very happy! And you know what makes me even happier? Finishing the Radmila earrings I promised to all ten lovely ladies who commented on this original blog post.

I’ve already sent five of the ten pairs out to those I know “in real life” and/or whose addresses I had (Kathy, Kathi, Rose, Rae and Jean), and I will be contacting the others shortly. I know it’s taken me much longer than I anticipated to complete these earrings, but I didn’t realize just how many wire crocheted “doilies” I was going to have to make before I had two doilies that looked enough alike to be paired together. How many you ask? Definitely more than I thought, but well worth the time, because I now have a pattern and rhythm that will serve me well in filling future orders.

In the meantime, I’ve got a special order that requires my immediate attention. It’s a design and color combination I’ve been struggling with, but I do believe this beautiful tulip I plucked from my garden may very well be the inspiration I need . . . =D

Enjoy the day!

HAPPY EASTER!

2011-04-24T05:54:00.005-05:00

Still in Vacation Mode

2011-03-04T23:55:00.003-06:00

It's been less than a week since I returned from my delightful little vacation in Texas to visit my BFF, but I'm ready to go back! I love my beautiful life and all the hustle and bustle it entails, but I really enjoyed getting away from it all (especially the cold and the snow) and s-l-o-w-i-n-g down.

I enjoyed . . .

Having my morning coffee outside on the deck.

"Extreme Beading" with only the EXACT amount of beads needed (not a single bead to spare) on a deck and table that blatantly dared gravity to wreak some havoc! You cannot appreciate the extremeness of this unless you've heard first hand the pinging sound of beads flying around my kitchen as I work.

The bright, bright sun emitting more Vitamin D than you can shake a snow-free stick at.

A delightful cat who shared my passion for wanting to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather.

And sunsets that filled my soul with joy.

Also, the best ice cream boxes ever!

But most of all, I enjoyed the company of my BFF and in being roommates once again after 20+ years -- even if it only was for just a little while.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T22:15:00.007-06:00

Although baking is not my forte, today I whipped up some sweet valentines for my sweethearts! Or is that sweet hearts for my sweet valentines? Either way, the gesture, and accompanying sugar buzz were well received.

A hundred hearts would be too few
To carry all my love for you.
~Author Unknown

I hope your Valetine's Day was as sweet as ours!

Exactly What My Mom Would Have Done

2011-02-03T11:25:00.024-06:00

[link to image]

Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn,
Hundreds of bees in the purple clover,
Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn,
But only one mother the wide world over.
~George Cooper

In my last post I asked for comments on my blog about your moms. I also promised to gift a pair of earrings I made in honor of my mom. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such lovely comments! I was so moved by your words that I found myself struggling with the idea of letting some random number-generator-thingy pick just one person to receive the earrings. So then I started thinking about gifting maybe three or even five pairs of earrings instead. But then . . . I couldn't do it -- I just couldn't leave anyone out. And the moment I decided to gift a pair to all ten who commented? Everything felt perfectly and wonderfully right. It's exactly what my mom would have done.♥

So, although it will take me a while to complete, all of you who commented will be receiving a pair of my Radmila earrings. Please email me at beadlolabead@yahoo.com with your mailing address and I will get them to you as soon as I can.

Thanks again for sharing your beautiful words and your beautiful moms with me!

Happy Birthday, Mom

2011-01-29T12:59:00.004-06:00

(My mom wearing one of my daughter's fancy dress-up hats.)

It's my mom's birthday . . . she would have been 72 years old today. Although I can no longer celebrate this day with her, I did manage to find another way to honor her.

This past summer, Bead Trends magazine put a call out for submissions for their January 2011 issue looking for designs that incorporated January's garnet birthstone, and designs that were inspired by nature, family, memories, etc. (in addition to other submission categories and guidelines). I decided to combine two categories into one design -- something that incorporated my mom's birthstone and represented her creative spirit.

Here is a photo of my submission to Bead Trends:

This is what I wrote to accompany my submission:

My "Radmila" design was inspired by, and named after, my lovely and talented
mother. The garnets represent her January birthstone ~ a stone and color she was
actually quite fond of ~ and the crocheted wire "doilies" represent her amazing
(and State Fair ribbon-winning) skills with fine thread crochet. ( A glimpse of
her beautiful work can be seen in the submission photo.) Although my mom was
pretty particular about the jewelry she wore, I do believe she would have really
liked these earrings.

Here are the earrings as seen in Bead Trends magazine:

I am so grateful that these earrings were chosen for the January issue, and because my mom was a very generous person, I'd like to gift a pair of Radmila earrings to one of you. For a chance to receive these, please leave a comment below about your mom -- your favorite thing about her, her craftiest craft, her favorite song, how awesome her laugh is -- anything at all, and I will use the random number generator at random.org to choose someone. You have until Wednesday, February 2nd to leave your comment and I will post the name of the earring recipient here and on my Facebook page on Thursday, February 3rd.

Thank you for letting me share a little bit of my mom with you. I look forward to reading about your wonderful moms!

R-E-C-E-I-V-E ~ Find Out What it Means to Me

2011-01-01T22:28:00.017-06:00

[link to photo]

Happy New Year everyone! I am SO looking forward to 2011 and am ready to get this party started!

Over the past few weeks I’ve been noticing that some of my favorite bloggers have been casting aside the notion of setting resolutions and instead have been picking one word to be the theme for the upcoming year. I really liked this idea and set out to find my one word. NOT as easy as one would think! I can’t tell you how many words I chose ~ and rather definitively at that ~ that ended up being scrapped almost as quickly as they were selected. Nothing seemed to want to stick. And then I stumbled upon the word RECEIVE and thought I can totally carry that one around with me for the next 365 days.

I think the reason the word RECEIVE stuck with me is because it not only works in welcoming the experiences that will mold who I want to be in the future, but it also works in accepting who and where I am today. This is the first time I've participated in the one-word challenge and for some reason I needed something all encompassing.

So in 2011 the word RECEIVE for me will mean to meet, welcome, invite, accept, gather, embrace, hear, celebrate, learn from, and appreciate all the people, experiences, opportunities and lessons that enter my life. I hope all of these aspects will come together like pieces of a puzzle throughout the year, and will help me to grow with a grateful heart.

Happy 2011 ♥

See You Next Year!

2010-12-19T02:28:00.001-06:00

As 2010 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported and encouraged me and my little Bead Lola Bead business throughout the year. I can't even begin to tell you how much your joy and enthusiasm have meant to me. It's kind of like the children's screams used as energy in Monster's Inc. -- except, of course, you all fuel my creativity in a much, MUCH nicer way. =D

Although my little biz is and always will be a work-in-progress, I am very passionate about it and hope to further nuture and grow it in 2011. I hope you'll come along with me for the ride.

Until then, Merry Christmas, Season's Greetings and Happy New Year to all! See you in January! ♥xo♥

Ready! Set! Swap! -- Part III

2010-12-17T20:58:00.007-06:00

Today I received this lovely ornament from Juliette Nelson of the Organic Pink Lady.

This little gem was quite the surprise since my other two ornament swaps were mutual ones in that I had their names and they had mine. Juliette Nelson's name unfortunately was not on my list and I was unable to reciprocate her generosity in the swap. But her ornament?

It's officially a part of my 2010 Creative Color Challenge Ornament Swap tree! Thank you Juliette for brightening my holidays!

Warmth . . .

2010-12-16T22:09:00.005-06:00

I'm taking a break from filling orders to enjoy some tea in my snowman mug and to peruse several crochet books I picked up from the library. This cold weather has me itching to create something warm.

Ready! Set! Swap! -- Part II

2010-12-07T05:01:00.003-06:00

The Creative Color Challenge Ornament Swap needs to change its name to Creative Color Challenge Goody Bag! Look!
My second ornament swap package, from the inspirational Bonnie Rose of A Life Unrehearsed, contained a lovely note on fun stationary, a personalized Random Acts of Kindness postcard, a handmade card for me to share and, of course, a beautifully handmade ornament!

Bonnie Rose's Etsy Shop is filled with delightful goodies you really should see. My favorites? Hands down the painted square truths. So lovely!!!

Thank you Bonnie Rose for sharing your art and creative spirit with me!

The Stockings Were . . . Beaded, of Course!!!

2010-12-06T00:01:00.004-06:00

I love beading paper! Well, technically I love putting beads on pretty much anything, but I find the bead/paper combo my most relaxing and therapeutic form of craft. That's why I decided to go with that for the Creative Color Challenge Ornament Swap.

I found some lovely holiday paper in the requisite green/red/gold colors and proceeded to cut little stocking shapes using a stencil I had.

From cutting the paper, to brushing on the Mod Podge, to sewing on the beads, to brushing on more Mod Podge, the process was complete and utter JOY!

Although this was my first "mixed media" project beyond the beaded cards I've made in the past, I'm rather happy with the result.
I experimented A LOT with adding weight and texture to the paper with the beads and Mod Podge, and tried to find the right balance between structure and sparkle. I still have quite a bit more to learn about the "mixed media" world, but I can confidently add this process to my create-a-holic repertoire!

Ready! Set! Swap!

2010-12-03T07:31:00.001-06:00

Last night I put the finishing touches on my little contributions to the Creative Color Challenge Ornament Swap (Last Minute Lola rides again!) and I will be photographing and mailing them out later today.

But before I do that I MUST share with you the lovely contents of the first ornament swap package I received!!! I dare you not to feel the happiness that Juliette Crane poured into these lovely little creations! Seriously, look at those delightful faces!

And this little beauty?
She's the newest addition to our Christmas tree this year. How can the Holidays NOT be Happy with this little angel hanging around?
But as beautiful as this artwork is, the stitching and texture of the piece have me totally gaga as well. Apparently it's the beeswax pellets that have been ironed onto this ornament that beg me to run my fingers over it every time I pass by. I truly love it!

Thank you Juliette for sharing your beautiful art this holiday season!

So Many Beads! So Little Time!

2010-11-16T20:08:00.007-06:00

There's a little more than two weeks left before I need to complete and send out my ornaments for the Creative Color Challenge Ornament Swap. Totally doable if I had a clue as to what I was going to make, but I don't. Although I'm grateful there are color restrictions in place to help narrow my choices, who would have thought I had THAT much green, red and gold to choose from! Seriously. I think I need a bead intervention.

My Little Wire Sculptures Go Formal

2010-11-15T22:22:00.012-06:00

On Saturday I attended the fundraiser for which I had made little wire sculptures to hold numbers for the table tops.

It was a wonderfully lovely and successful event, and I am so very honored to have been a small part of it.

I look forward to either making more sculptures for next year, or perhaps updating the bling and/or wardrobe of the current forms.

A strand of pearls, perhaps? How about some beaded shoes? Oooooooooooh the possibilities are endless!

Special Moments

2010-11-12T23:36:00.002-06:00

This morning my daughter caught me having leftover birthday cake for breakfast. Before she had a chance to admonish my poor nutritional choice, I told her to grab a fork. As we sat together slowly increasing our glucose levels, she told me she loved these special moments. "Remember that one time you made French Toast for us at 11 o'clock at night? That was so much fun!" Yes, that was fun. And so was this. It's amazing how quickly a simple, unexpected activity can turn into a special moment. I can't wait to see what special moments tomorrow brings . . .

Birthdays are Good for you!

2010-11-11T23:57:00.003-06:00

"Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest." ~Larry Lorenzoni

And birthdays are even better when they're filled with hugs, kisses and birthday wishes from those we love most. Thank you family and friends for a wonderful day! xo

Wire Sculpture 101

2010-11-10T19:25:00.017-06:00

Although my hands are a bit sore from manipulating aluminum wire for the past few days, I had fun creating these table number holders (with their requisite Bead Lola Bead *bling*) for a fundraiser being held this weekend.

I made a total of 18 and have them boxed and ready for delivery tomorrow morning.

Each holder will have it's own fancy script number printed out on a round, white piece of paper and will be a fancier version of my original prototype below.
My 13 year old son named the prototype Disco Stu

I love the way this kid thinks! =D

I've Always Loved My Name . . .

2010-11-09T20:48:00.008-06:00

. . . But now I love it even more!

Thank you Shoebox!

That's All?!?!?!?

2010-11-07T23:44:00.005-06:00

“How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?” The same as the number of days I am able to consecutively participate in NaBloPoMo. A one . . . A two-Hoo . . . A tha-ree . . .

Three?!?!?!? Yes, three. I’m going to blame it on the busy volleyball season and my being voluntarily trapped for days in a large, sweaty sports complex. And then I’m going to break my record by blogging four days in a row. Ha! Take that NaBloPoMo!

Beaded Dimension

2010-11-03T21:37:00.009-05:00

I love how a few strategically placed beads, sewn onto paper, add dimension and depth to a design.

Bead Lola Bead isn't just my name . . . it's my passion!

Stop {Awesome Rainbow} Ahead

2010-11-02T22:26:00.009-05:00

Exactly one month ago I was fortunate enough to capture on film the most amazing rainbow.

Remembering the intensity of it still takes my breath away.

It's NaBloPoMo!

2010-11-01T23:15:00.005-05:00

It's National Blog Posting Month and this is my first post. A post that officially commits me to writing something on my blog every day this month. I'm both nervous and excited about the prospect, but definitely ready to take on the challenge. I've been wanting to find my blogging "voice" for a long time and I'm hoping this will help me get there. Fingers crossed -- here we go!

I ♥ Beaded Beads!!!

2010-10-29T19:38:00.000-05:00

This is a beaded bead I made during the Big Hole Trend Setter Beads class at Eclectica Beads.

I enjoyed it so much, I HAD to make more!

I love working with needle, thread and teeny tiny beads and am totally addicted to the instant gratification these completed little treasures offer. Oh the possibilities!!!

Sing it with me!

2010-10-01T13:16:00.007-05:00

♫ 'Tis the season to get crafting
Fa la la la la la la la la

New designs I am now drafting
Fa la la la la la la la la

More ideas than there is time
Fa la la la la la la la la

Can’t believe these words all rhyme
Fa la la la la la la la la ♫

=D

Assemblage

2010-09-05T19:04:00.008-05:00

My need to create took a decidedly practical turn this weekend as I put together three -- count 'em THREE -- desk/chair/lamp sets.

Not bad, huh? And the best part? They do NOT fall apart when you sit at them! WOO HOO! Now that I've finished creating the perfect study space for each kid, I get to sit back and wait for all those straight "A"s to roll in . . .

Hello September!!!

2010-09-03T08:00:00.002-05:00

I know many people are sad to see summer come to an end (just look at all those glum little faces boarding the school buses in the morning), but not me. September marks the beginning of my favorite time of year. Even as a kid I loved the beginning of a new school year, the air turning crisp and cool, and the slow crescendo of color that eventually explodes into nature's very own firework display. There's just something about this time of year that breathes life into me and makes me oh-so-very happy. So much so, as a matter of fact, that I bought myself a little bouquet of flowers the other day to celebrate September's arrival. I can't tell you the last time I joyfully purchased flowers like this. I need to do it more often.

Happy September to all!!!

EUREKA!!!

2010-07-28T14:06:00.029-05:00

I had been doing quite a bit of thinking about my Bead Lola Bead brand and what logo and packaging I wanted to use. I considered size, color, type, font, paper, stickers, shape, etc. to the point where I honestly thought my head would explode from all the possibilities.

And then I received this package.

How delightful is that?!

Oh-so-simple, yet oh-so-lovely!

Just seeing this package exfoliated the plethora of packaging possibilities from my brain and awakened a desire for simplicity. (Which, by the way, led me to believe that Arbonne's products are far more effective than even they imagined, seeing that the product contained within this lovely packaging was a Sea Salt Scrub with an Awaken Essential Oil Blend and I didn't even have to actually open the package for the magic to begin. But, I digress . . . )

Even the back of this packaging is cute!

But my favorite component is the double-duty tag, with company information on one side and plenty of space for a note on the other. Pretty AND efficient.

So now I'm off to start finalizing the details of my own simple packaging. I'll post pictures soon . . .

Tuesday's Treasures -- Summer in Bloom

2010-07-27T20:26:00.004-05:00

I fell in love with a cuff created by Molly of WhimsyHouse and was so inspired by the colors (and the title of the piece too), I started to seek out other colorful beauties created by Wisconsin artists. Here's a sampling of what I found:

As I was admiring all those colors, I suddenly remembered an unfinished bracelet that may very well be colorful enough to hold its own among these lovely treasures. While I rummage through my stash in an attempt to locate it, please feel free to check out the online version of this treasury to get a better view of your favorites. I'll be back once I find that bracelet . . .

The Student Surpassess the Teacher

2010-07-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

I call my 12 year-old daughter a crochet ninja because not long after teaching that kid just two basic stitches, she was whipping up scarves, hats, socks, pillows and stuffed animals likes crazy. More importantly, she was doing so without a pattern.

The student has surpassed the teacher BIG TIME.

So we thought it would be fun to submit these cute little baby chicks in this year's Wisconsin State Fair competition in the Youth Textile division. Although the judge noted several flaws in the craftsmanship of the entry, my baby girl snagged herself a second place ribbon! As delighted as she and I were with her placement, I know her Nana, who was a State Fair crochet ribbon winner many times over, is squealing with joy and bursting with pride from above.

Stars Over America

2010-07-13T16:15:00.006-05:00

For the past month or so I have been voting on the entries of the Project Quilting challenge over at Kim's Crafty Apple. I don't know anything about handmade quilts or the quilting process, but I do know that these challenges are resulting in some mesmerizingly beautiful works of art. And the stories and inspirations behind the design of each quilt? Well, they just make a good thing even better!

If you happen to enjoy beautiful quilts, please visit and vote on the current Stars Over America challenge. Voting closes at 7pm CDT on Friday, July 16th.

Good luck to all the talented quilters!!!

The Best Bead Give-A-Way Ever

2010-06-23T23:16:00.006-05:00

I hate having to steal someone else's blog title, but Denise Yezbak Moore named her give-a-way so perfectly, that NOT using her title would diminish the AWESOMENESS of it all. I mean seriously, LOOK AT THESE BEADS!!!!

Now you want them too, don't you? Yeah, I thought so! To throw your hat in the ring of The Best Bead Give-A-Way Ever, just go to Denise's blog and follow the instructions for entering.

Good Luck!!!

You Win Some . . . You Lose Some . . .

2010-06-15T22:28:00.011-05:00

First of all, thank you very, VERY much for your support during the Bead Star competition this year and for taking the time to vote! Although I would have loved to see my heart bracelet in the 2010 issue of Bead Star magazine, the we're-sorry-your-piece-did-not-win email I received on Friday officially confirms it was not meant to be. Fortunately -- and I'm not just saying this because I didn't win -- I really do consider it an honor just to have made it to the finals. I hope I can get that far again next year . . .

Until then, I guess I'll just have to win other cool things. Beautiful and superbly handcrafted things. Like this Cathedral Window Pillow Pincushion from WarmnFuzzies.

Isn't it just lovely! I won this for commenting on a Project Quilting event organized by Kim's Crafty Apple. I'm slowly starting to add my beading needles to the cushion as I use them and I'm noticing my need to bead getting stronger as I spy my needles nestled in their glorious new home. Not surprisingly, storing my needles in a dark, recycled pill bottle does not have the same effect.

So thank you Warmnfuzzies for generously offering your beautiful pincushion as a prize and as creative inspiration. And thank you Kim's Crafty Apple for having such an awesome blog and for the creative challenges you offer. I love the Recycle Challenge entries . . . once again I'm having trouble just picking ONE!!!!

Bead Trends Magazine

2010-06-03T10:16:00.015-05:00

I can't even begin to describe the joy I felt in seeing my pinecone ring and beaded scarf in the June 2010 issue of Bead Trends magazine! Seriously, check out these pictures:

Is it just me or do these photos make you hyperventilate just a bit? Okay, yeah, it's probably just me, but thank you, though, for letting me share my excitement with you!

♫HEY, HEY I WANNA BE A BEAD STAR!♫

2010-05-20T19:05:00.013-05:00

Yes friends, it’s that time of year again and I’m happy to report that a bracelet I submitted in the 2010 Bead Star competition made it to the finals! WOO HOO! Although I’m a little disappointed that two other pieces I submitted HAD also made it to the finals until a glitch in the submission process was rectified and they got bumped by more deserving designs, I’m grateful for the inadvertent insight I had in knowing I was “THIS CLOSE.” Had I missed that little window of opportunity to "peek" at the pre-glitch finalists, I would not have known where those pieces fell within the sea of submissions. Even disappointments come wrapped in blessings.

So now here comes the part where I ask you all for a HUGE (as in 5-minutes-worth-of-your-value-time HUGE) favor. If you have time to support this competition, please go to the Bead Star website now through June 9th, and click on the "Vote Now" box in the middle of the page. You will then be asked to provide your email address before the voting process begins and be required to vote for one design in each category. Your votes will only count once you've reached the end and have clicked the "Done" button. There are nine different categories with 20 entries in each. My entry is the heart bracelet pictured above === (#20) in the “Designs with Heart” category. If you like it, please vote for it. If not, please vote for your favorite. Either way, you’ve got the power to turn someone into a BEAD STAR!

THANK YOU and feel free to pass this on to anyone and EVERYONE you think may be interested in voting. =D

P.S. -- Here are the two that got away . . .

. . . and one that never made it . . .

Ooooooommmmmm . . .

2010-05-05T07:52:00.009-05:00

I just completed a custom order for 16 napkin rings that reignited my passion for bead weaving, thanks to the calming rhythm of the predictable pattern. Some of the napkin rings I worked while watching television. Some I worked in between various stages of cleaning and cooking. But the best ones were worked in complete silence, by a window, with bright sunlight and gentle breezes elevating the experience to a spa-like meditative retreat. And, because the colors requested were in conjunction with a wedding and happened to be the same colors of MY wedding (albeit 16 years ago), well, I felt I was destined to create them.

I hope the bride-to-be and her husband-to-be enjoy using their new napkin rings as much as I enjoyed creating them!

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-03-21T12:57:00.007-05:00

Despite what the weather has to say about it, Spring HAS sprung! In honor of its official arrival, check out some of the Spring-y fashions lovingly handcrafted by my Moo Crew friends. They'll make you forget ALL about those little patches of snow that remain . . .

To see more items and obtain shop information, please see the Moo Team Merch Themes Spring Fashion post on the WIST blog.

Promotional Photo

2010-01-13T00:28:00.007-06:00

For a long time I've been wanting to create a Bead Lola Bead postcard to send to family, friends and prospective customers. I envisioned this postcard to contain a picture or two of my more popular designs along with information on how to contact me.

During the holidays, however, I kept receiving coupons from Walgreens Photo for discounts on their collage prints. Aha! An inexpensive opportunity to play around with some ideas. So I rather quickly submitted the photos I wanted to use (a 50% off coupon was about to expire!) and had 50, 4x6 collage prints made up. What do you think?

Gratitude

2009-12-25T21:57:00.011-06:00

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." ~ William Arthur Ward

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for all your encouragement and support throughout 2009. It is very much appreciated!