deanna roux, artist

Writing's on the Wall

2011-02-19T19:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it takes a random act of grocery store bathroom graffiti to make you realize you're not living to your full potential. After all, there is a difference between "living" and "making a living."

Like so many other people in this world, my goal in life is to live in a way that makes me personally fulfilled, satisfied and happy. Until I feel those three descriptors, I don't feel successful.

Not unlike writing, designing jewelry allows me to use my hands to organically express my point of view. I put my work out to the masses to inspect, assess and (hopefully) admire. And that makes me feel successful.

But there is a fourth little necessary evil. And that, of course, would be money.

For me, feeling like a successful artist unfortunately does not necessarily equate to a heavy cashflow. But in this economic mess we're currently wading in (and waiting in), success has to equal money. We've all heard of the "starving artist." Well, this successful, starving artist had to take action.

I haven't made jewelry full-time in about a year. I've been working as a Freelance Communications Consultant. And I absolutely love it! I have some great clients who are (like my former artist and new consultant self) mommy-prenuers. They have their own businesses and are able to make their own hours. They have great ideas about how to grow their businesses and I help them make it happen.

This is the perfect job for me. I get to write, create and interact. I get to manage projects, web sites and social media.

But alas, if I were to be hired by the number of clients it would take to actually make a decent living, I would be unable to provide the high-quality results I demand of myself. So, although I will continue on my Freelance journey for now, I am seeking full-time employment at a company that can offer me regular work, health benefits, and the all-too-important paycheck (with Uncle Sam's cut already paid, of course).

Triple Threat Necklace

2009-12-01T06:09:00.000-08:00

Exclusive Collection at Station 5 Salon

My new Triple Threat Necklace offers - you guessed it - three different looks! The multi-faceted necklace features scrumptious handmade glass beads by Being Beads. The color combinations the artist chooses to create her beads are stunning. The rest of the components used in the necklace are all sterling silver.

Coordinating earrings can be purchased with the necklace, as a set - or separately.

The 36-inch necklace can be worn straight down. A long necklace is the current trend.

The lariat is always in fashion and can be worn like a choker or pulled down lower.

With the chain wrapped around the neck, the third look is created.

All of these looks can be combined with other pieces of varying lengths already in your personal collection - like pearls, gems, chains, etc.

You can click on the photos above to enlarge or stop by Station 5 Salon in Belchertown to get a closer look!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!!

My Challenge Coin

2009-11-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

A kind man gave me a gift today. It brought tears to my eyes.

Very emotional about our troops, I find it touching when I encounter them in places I visit. Choking back tears, I take every opportunity to thank them personally for the freedom I have. I make sure to look them in the eyes and thank them for their service.

Today, I saw a group of soldiers approaching me in the parking lot as I got out of my car. I was going to eat with my mom and sister. I walked slowly until they were within ear shot, and I thanked them.

Inside the restaurant, two tables full of soldiers sat eating and talking. I went to each and thanked them. As I walked away, I fought back my tears - for reasons that are obvious and complicated. Soldiers touch my heart for their bravery, courage, and honor - for their selflessness and for their sense of self. And because they give and I receive.

As my sister, my mom and I sat eating, my phone rang. My husband. With a mouthful of food and a phone to my ear, a kind man dressed in Army fatigues approached our table and extended his hand to me.

He said, "I just want to give you this and thank you because we really appreciate it when people thank us." A bit speechless and choked up I said "Thank you." I stretched my hand to him and we shook hands. He turned and walked away.

I was on the inside of the booth and didn't have a chance to get up and properly receive his gift. I didn't get his name or an explanation of the gift.

Tonight, I searched the internet until I uncovered the term "Challenge Coin." Very interesting.

The Challenge Coin has an origin of helping to save a solder's life - it helped to identify him as belonging to a specific company. Instead of being killed, he was given a bottle of wine.

The challenge comes into play later on in time - when a soldier is asked to produce his/her Challenge Coin, they must do so within 60 seconds. If they do not, then they owe the challenger a drink. If they do, the challenger must pay.

Challenge Coins are created for the military with specific insignia to prove membership. They also help build morale within units and are earned for good deeds and proven fellowship.

Today, I was able to see firsthand, the second use for the Challenge Coin - as a "reward or award." I accept it and promise to always thank our men and women of the military and to do it in a way that will challenge and encourage others to do the same.

Here are some interesting links to learn more about the Challenge Coin:

Wikipedia

Global Security

Make Stuff, Reduce Stress and Live Longer!

2009-10-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

You heard it right - take my class and you will live longer! Sound like a midnight info-mercial? Well keep reading.

I will be teaching Free-Style Jewelry Design at Mud Spun Arts Center in Belchertown on Wednesday nights from 6:30-8:30. This is an ongoing drop-in class with a six week commitment. So if you have to miss a class, you can make it up when it is convenient for you.

You can learn new techniques and create heart-felt gifts with your own hands.

Topics covered are:

Basic beading
Basic wire work
Advanced jewelry design
Creating pendants
Creating jewelry components

Materials used are:

Glass beads
Natural stone beads
Sterling silver components
Precious Metal Clay*
Fine Silver*

The cost for the workshop is $160 – that’s about $25 per class including high end materials! Students will be able to create many pieces of wearable art during their six-week excursion.

*Additional cost for precious metal clay and fine silver.

An added benefit to a class like this is living a longer life. Sounds funny to say, but the truth is, people who have less stress in their lives live longer. And gathering together, making new friends and creating beautiful things with one’s own hands will definitely lower stress levels!

Classes begin Wednesday, October 28 at 6:30 pm, so contact me if you'd like to join us for an enjoyable night out!

I'm also available for Girl's Night Out - beading parties and home jewelry shopping parties!

WHAT'S GOING ON AT MUD SPUN?

2009-10-02T05:59:00.000-07:00

Brand New at The Gallery: CHAMILIA JEWELRY

Mud Spun did their homework when they decided to offer this exciting new addition. There are many bead companies with whom they could have partnered. Mud Spun chose CHAMILIA for its artisan quality and beautiful variety -- and because CHAMILIA jewelry is crafted right here in the United States.

CHAMILIA’S impressive collection is handmade in Atlanta, Georgia by experienced glass artists using time-honored techniques and genuine Murano glass imported from Italy.

You’ll be glad to know that CHAMILIA jewelry beads are compatible with other European bracelets, such as PANDORA and Trollbeads.

CHAMILIA jewelry complements Mud Spun's current artisan offerings and they’re proud to provide customers this enticing element of The Gallery!

Limited time offer: visit The Gallery and enter a drawing for a FREE CHAMILIA FLEX BANGLE bracelet. No purchase necessary.

Gallery hours:
Tues. .... 9 am - 2 pm
Wed. ... 4 - 9 pm
Thurs. ... 4 - 9 pm
Fri. .... 9 am - 2 pm
Sat. .... 9 am - 2 pm
New in the Arts Center: FALL WORKSHOPS

Take your inner-artist on a fall retreat with a weekly class. One of these six-week art workshops are sure to help you tap into your creativity.

Adult Potter's Wheel
• Learn basic wheel throwing techniques
• Thursdays starting October 15 from 7 to 9 pm

Potter's Wheel for Teens (age 11+)
• Beyond hand-building and clay forming
• Thursdays starting October 15 from 4 to 5:30 pm

Free-Style Jewelry Workshop
• Create one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art
• Fridays starting October 16 from 7 to 9 pm

Glass Bead Making Workshop (age 10+)
• Introduction to flameworking
• Mondays starting October 19 from 7 to 9 pm

Learn more and register online today!

A Bridal Collection

2009-07-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

What a lovely opportunity I had recently to create some custom pieces for an equally lovely bride-to-be.

She came to visit me in my studio, we chatted and looked at my current work. She quickly decided what she wanted.

These pieces are for her wedding party to wear on her wedding day, but they are also her gift to them.

Her wedding party is quite large: eight bridesmaids,

one junior bridesmaid,

and two flower girls.

Once we ironed out those details, we moved on to her gift to her mother. We talked a bit and then I sketched out a design that she loved.

The bride gave me a lot of artistic license, so I had some creative freedom, as well as her direction.

I wrapped up the collection in these pretty little bags I found at the Christmas Tree Shops.

I was able to provide the bride with a preview of her collection via a Facebook photo album. (One does not need an account to have full viewing capabilities.)

My bride was very excited to be able to give one-of-a-kind gifts to her special ladies and I had a lot of fun creating them for her!

Parting is such (bitter)sweet sorrow

2009-07-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

I would rate yesterday's show as a success. Based on the economy, that is. Normally, I'd have thought the day was a little less than stellar.

Offering the $5 off was definitely a smart move. I never did anything like that before. And I don't do sales. I make a conscious effort to create beautiful jewelry at a cost people can afford. I often get comments on my prices - and how fair they are. That's why I don't usually offer any "deals."

But I witnessed many people thinking very hard about whether to buy or not, and also when they knew they would buy, what they would buy was also a careful decision. Being able to offer a discount really helped them. I was glad for them and for me!

One customer really sticks out in my mind. She was so kind and appreciated my work so much. She bought the most special piece in my collection. It was one that I poured my heart and soul into - one that I created with my favorite subject matter in mind.

The piece is called Ebb and Flow - a necklace with a handmade pendant which, to me, exemplifies the ocean waves and the bubbly water that hits the beach. I set a round paua shell into it as well. The necklace features sea glass from Hawaii and some neat rings that remind me of barnacles. The whole thing is asymmetrical with a handmade wavy toggle clasp.

I love the piece and I'm so happy it now lives with a woman who truly understands and appreciates the art that it is. She even bought a mini version of it for a gift.

Five Bucks Off(er)

2009-07-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

Fancy Free Me will be showing tomorrow in Amherst, Mass. The show is an annual arts and crafts fair on the town common.

The participants' entry fee benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County.

This is the largest (FREE) summertime show in the area. They have a ton of great artists in many genres. And local food and live music and the biggest used book sale I've ever seen.

Come take advantage of my $5 off(er). Or just stop by to say "Hi!"

Sat., June 13 - A Day in B'town

2009-06-03T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've got it all planned out for you.

You're going to spend the day noshing, browsing, and sight-seeing - all in our sweet little old Belchertown.

(click on map to enlarge)
8:30 am - Breakfast
Enjoy a wholesome, organic and hearty breakfast at the award-winning Roadhouse Cafe located on Rte. 9 across the street from Bay Rd. entrance.

9:20 am - Visit
Come see the brand new Gallery at Mud Spun Arts Center located on Rte. 202 (just past the intersection of 202 and 9). You'll find local art including pottery, paintings, sketch art, jewelry, wood working, glass and metal sculpture. (P.S. My work is available at this gallery.)

10:00 am - Peruse
Wander through approximately 75 booths at the 22nd Annual Arts and Crafts on the Common. Area crafters are out in full force with everything from fiber arts to jewelry. Refreshments are available for purchase should you become parched or in need of a baked snack. I'll be showing my best at this venue and would love to meet you!

12:00 pm - Lunch
Stop in Apollo's for a comfortable seat and a big Greek salad or a fat grinder. They're on Rte. 9 just past the intersection going back toward the Roadhouse.

Quabbin waterway spills out to waterfall on other side.
1:10 pm - Drive
Head on down Rte.9 going East and you'll run into a few places you'll want to stop - the fish hatchery is fun for kids and adults to watch and feed the fish; The Quabbin Reservoir (two entrances on Rte. 9) is a great place for a hike, photos, climbing the summit tower and witnessing the water fall.

3:00 pm - Homebound
Before you leave town, you might want to stop by the Charleston Shop, a great antique and collectible store (up the street from the common); or visit the Stone House Museum where you can learn about the history of our cozy little town; or stop by Stone Soup Farm and getch-ya some fresh veggies to take home.

There. A full, stress-free, pre-planned day laid out for you like a sun goddess in the middle of July. All you have to do is soak it up.

A Lovely Evening at The Gallery

2009-05-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

Mud Spun Arts Center - The Gallery's Grand Opening was last weekend and I had such a great time. So much so, that I took only one photo. Not like me, the "crazed paparazzi", as I'm known in some circles.

Here's where the evening began. Out front, before we headed in.

I had a mini posse with me, which made me feel very special - my mom Peg, my mother-in-law Pat, my sister Deborah and my brother-in-law Wayne. Later on, my friend Brooke Lacey, came out to our little town of Belcher-tucky (as my friend Malinda Lastowski likes to call it).

We walked into a buzzing room full of artists and art admirers. We split up to browse and after about five steps, I heard my name being called. It was Andrea Filipkowski, a woman I befriended on Facebook. She's a fellow writer and has also written for our local newspaper, the Sentinel. She currently has a column on Belchertown-News.com, which is owned by another Sentinel alum, Michael Seward. I mention this because I was able to meet Mike that night too. Both Mike and Andrea are Facebook friends whom I had not met in person until that night. I've trusted them to proof my work, we've made comments on each others Facebook updates, photos, etc. and we all try to help promote/support each other. Very cool to see them.

Also in the house was owner Becky Laliberte. I was able to introduce her to my family and we all had a nice chat. She is such a sweetheart. Becky has been working very hard toward this end for quite a while. It was nice to see her in her element and enjoying every second of it. Her husband, Martin, built The Gallery space by extending her original footprint - p.s. they own the building.

Sketch artist Wayne Gagnon was in the back room (where clay workshops are usually conducted) with his son, who was playing the trumpet for a nice little bit of ambiance. Set up next to the snacks and beverages, Wayne was offering his own "visual hors d'oeuvres" - business card sized works of art. Very clever Wayne!

Andrea's daughter was at the prom that night so Wayne created her a custom hors d'oeuvre featuring a dressed up young couple titled "2009 Prom."

P.S. Wayne's depiction of Mario Cuomo (above), was published in The New York Times. You can learn more about this exciting illustration right here.

I also got to chat a little bit with metal and glass sculptor Katie Richardson - very talented young lady who lives on Stone Soup Farm in Belchertown with her boyfriend, attends graduate school and teaches preschool - wow!

Another person I saw at the opening was a big helper to me earlier that week - Andrea Zax. She has a bridal boutique, ZaxWear, in town. I interviewed her for the Sentinel a while back. Andrea did some last-minute alterations to my daughter's First Communion dress, which I picked up earlier in the week. In fact, my daughter's First Communion was earlier that day!

We enjoyed a glass of wine, chatted with folks and then my Brooke-E arrived. We worked together back in my corporate days. She is one of the best people I have ever met. I was so glad she made her way from Springfield to our little town.

Several of my pieces (pictured above) were sold that night - very exciting for me. In fact, I think many pieces were being snatched up by many of the art fans in the room. My sister purchased some of Becky's work - beautiful wheel-thrown bowls.

My family went on their way and Brooke and I went to a local establishment, the Grapevine Grille, to enjoy a drink or two. While we were there, we got to chat and laugh with my friend Malinda, who manages the place.

Like Andrea Zax, Malinda helped me out earlier that day. She delivered all the food for the dinner we had at the house to celebrate my daughter's First Communion. The Grapevine has excellent food - everyone raved!

I had such a wonderful (day and) evening. It was so nice to see my family come to the event to support me. And it was awesome to see Brooke. Seeing Malinda at the Grapevine was fun too, even if we did shut down the bar before 11 pm.

Who says you can't wrap up an incredible girl's night out before midnight?

GRAND OPENING: THE GALLERY

2009-05-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

Press Release: Grand Opening May 16, 2009

2009-04-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

Mud Spun Arts Center adds “The Gallery” to its Artsy Offerings

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Becky Laliberte
Phone: 413-530-8883
Email: becky@mudspunartscenter.com

BELCHERTOWN, MA, APRIL 16, 2009 -- Nearing its one-year anniversary, Mud Spun Arts Center announces the Grand Opening for “The Gallery” at Mud Spun. The event, to be held at 40 Daniel Shays Highway, Suite 8, Belchertown, Mass, will take place Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.

Mud Spun Arts Center opened its doors in spring 2008 and has since afforded many adults and children the opportunity to learn the basics of clay building with hands-on classes and workshops. Mud Spun Arts Center Owner and potter, Becky Laliberte, began her business with the primary desire to practice her art while utilizing her teaching skills. “Working as an instructor and potter was the ideal way for me to bridge my background in art with education,” Laliberte said.

With her primary goal accomplished, Laliberte paved the way for her secondary goal - opening a gallery - by organizing an art show last fall. She invited many local artists to participate, several of whom will be showcased in “The Gallery” at Mud Spun.

Elms College 1998 alum with degrees in art and education, Laliberte has added “curator” to her resume. “I feel fortunate to be able to collaborate with other talented local artists who share the same vision,” said Laliberte. “The pieces come together to offer the conscious consumer a wide selection of individually handmade art anyone can feel good about owning or giving.”

According to Laliberte, there will be a variety of art genres represented at a wide range of price points. “The Gallery will provide consumers with the opportunity to purchase original art from a vast selection while at the same time supporting local art.”

Represented artists include: jewelry artist, Leslie Alibozek; painter Carol Belliveau; potter, Nicole Bruno; enamel jewelry designer, Donnabelle Casis; ceramic tile artist, Michael Cohen; blown glass artist, Tony Faith; sketch artist, Wayne Gagnon; potter Beth McConnell; potter Chris O’Niell; fused glass artist, Kim Rich; glass and metal sculptor, Katie Richardson; silver jewelry designer, Deanna Roux; and woodworker, Ron Shepard. Laliberte said she is open to accepting additional artists in the future.

The Grand Opening for The Gallery will be hosted by Laliberte and several represented artists. The event will include a tour of the center and gallery; introductions to the artists; and cheese and wine.
For additional information on the Grand Opening of The Gallery at Mud Spun Arts Center, contact owner and artist Becky Laliberte or visit www.mudspunartscenter.com.

ABOUT MUD SPUN ARTS CENTER - Mud Spun strives to offer experiences in art that encourage exploration, discovery and creativity. All ability levels are welcome to join us in our friendly and relaxed environment. The new gallery space will be dedicated to featuring a unique selection of fine art and original works in pottery, glass, paintings, metal, jewelry and more.

- END -
For more info, see previous articles:
Releasing the Artist Within
Mud Spun Arts and Musical Festival

Stunning Sea Gems Found in the Sand

2009-04-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I purchased some beautiful sea glass from fellow-Etsian 808Sunshine. She resides in Hawaii and seems to be as happy as I would be if I lived in Hawaii. She searches the beaches practically daily for new sea glass and has many collections for sale on her site.

I bought a sizable amount of sea glass from her to use in some new summery designs. And we communicated quite a bit on my choices. I have to say there are few sellers who tend to their customers as 808 does. She even included many free gifts.

I told 808 about my and my daughter's unrequited love affair with the tiny sea gems. We love to behold them but they do not reveal themselves to us frequently.

Anyway, she was just so sweet. I was extra pleased to show my daughter the free little gift that was lovingly put together especially for her by a kind stranger in Hawaii (pictured above). My daughter absolutely loved it!

So far, I have only made one pair of earrings from the lot I purchased from 808 (pictured below). I plan to create a whole collection of new pieces in the coming weeks.

Enjoy this lovely slide show I found on a blog I follow called By the Sea Jewelry and Sea Glass Collecting

Find more photos like this on Seaglasslovers

CHCS to present ‘Superhero’ musical

2009-03-26T18:03:00.000-07:00

By Deanna Roux

Josh Guerraz, co-writer of the original musical that will be on stage at the Belchertown High School this weekend, started playing guitar at six years old. “My uncle taught me. He couldn’t read music, but he taught me chords and things like that. Then I started getting books as gifts and I ended up figuring it out. I taught myself how to read music and as I got older I started playing guitar in the school jazz band,” said Guerraz.

A JAZZY EDUCATION
During high school Guerraz realized he wanted to play music for a living. He attended Western Connecticut State University and majored in jazz performance. “In college I got really big into music composition and arranging. When I graduated, I taught guitar lessons as a private teacher. As I continued with that, it sort of propelled me into getting more into education. Then I went back to school to earn a master’s degree, which I’m working on right now,” said Guerraz.

STARVING ARTIST SYNDROME
Guerraz’s main goal during school was to simply play music, but the real world of the starving artist put things into perspective. “If you asked me ten years ago [at twenty] what I would be doing in ten years, I would have said, ‘Oh, I’ll be playing on 52nd street in New York City.’ I wanted to be a full-time musician,” Guerraz said. “As I graduated, I got a reality check. That’s why I’m so glad I had education to fall back on, because I can make a living and still play in bands.”

NOW EVERYBODY TANGO
“Perfectly Normal: The Superhero Musical” was written in about three weeks time last summer. Guerraz teamed up with fellow Chestnut Hill Community School (CHCS) teacher, Steve Walkowicz. Walkowicz wrote the play and the lyrics, and Guerraz wrote the melodies. “There are six original songs. I wanted to expose kids to different styles of music they never played before,” Guerraz said, “So if you notice, there’s a reggae, there’s a tango, there’s an old R-and-B church style, a fast fifties style, and a ballad.”

PIT BAND TALENT
The pit band is composed of all sixth-graders, with the exception of one fifth-grader. The audition process began right away when school started in September. Of the 30 or so kids who tried out, about 20 of them made it into the band. “We have four clarinets, four alto sax, a baritone sax, a trumpet, a trombone, three pianos, two guitars, two drums, and three flutes. I’d say about 90 percent of the pit band is in the school band,” explained Guerraz, “Most of these kids just started playing their instruments. My [main] piano just started playing over the summer.”

The mutual respect and admiration between teacher and student is apparent at rehearsals. The kids may get a little loud and Mr. G., as he is referred to, lets them know with authority that they’re there to work. The rapport they share allows for work in the classroom and a high-five in the hallway.

“All of my pit bands before this were at the high school level. Last year was the first year I had a pit band this young. I was blown away with the talent,” said Guerraz, “Many of those kids are in the pit band this year and they’re better than some of the high school bands I’ve worked with. They’re dedicated; and this is tough music!”

Pit band members Jaclyn Symiakakis, clarinet; Alice Langlois, clarinet; and Joseph Brozek, trumpet,take a short break from some hard work.

WE HAVE A WINNER
Pit band member, Alice Langlois (pictured above, center), plays clarinet. However, her musical creative outlet doesn’t end there. Langlois entered the play’s contest to come up with the best logo. She started her idea with the Superman emblem, but changed the “S” into a G-cleft. She added the silhouettes of the superheroes and the winning entry was born. Her winning logo is featured on the commemorative t-shirt. “I was just really excited,” Langlois said, “When they announced my name and that I won, everyone in my class clapped for me.”

LOCAL COVERAGE
The original musical has caught the attention of Belchertown’s local cable channel, BCTV (channel 5). They’re producing a "Behind the Scenes" look at the making of the play. “We've had a team of students shooting film for two weeks and the results have been sent to BCTV for editing,” Walkowicz explained. “The final product will air on BCTV during play week and will help us, we hope, promote the performances.”

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
There will be two 7pm performances on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28. Tickets are selling fast. Information is on display at Stop-N-Shop, the Town Hall, the Clapp Memorial Library, and in the lobby at CHCS. Tickets cost $5 for adults and $3 for students and senior citizens. For more ticket information, e-mail Steve Walkowicz at swalkowicz@yahoo.com.

New Journey

2009-03-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

New Blog

When you go through a difficult change or a major challenge in life, writing about it often presents things in a more clear and honest way. Well, for me anyway.

I am going through a big change in my life. I've been struggling for many years to overcome what I perceive to be the only problem in my life - my weight.

My new blog will track my journey and help keep me committed, accountable and honest with myself.

I welcome comments, support and sharing on my new blog. I have a top ten list, a link list and a poll. And I have cookies! Just kidding. But it is pretty sweet looking.

Stop by, if you like.

Vintage Shopping Bag

2009-03-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

Just because you don't always get what you expect, doesn't mean you won't love what you get.

The other day I took a drive down to Conn. in search of a guaranteed find at a bargain price. Is that what I found? Well, kinda.

Rewind about two years (ish). My mom and I are at the Brimfield Antique Market (click image to the left to learn more) in, you guessed it, Brimfield, Mass. and we are on a quest: find vintage buttons to add to my (then small) collection. Here's why.

First, let me tell you that if I am in search of anything, my mother is the one I want to take with - she will uncover every nook and cranny like she's searching out my heart transplant donor. Plus, she will get the price that is fair - with just a raise of the eyebrow. AND you cannot find a better support system. Yeah, momma's got my back.

So there we are in the midst of thousands of dealers on twenty different fields, all lining a one-mile stretch of Route 20. We park down this long alley, pay our five-dollar parking fee and get out of the car. We pass the port-a-potties and head straight to the first pavilion. Behind the very first case we see is standing a friendly, chatty woman. I ask if she has any buttons and there began my serious quest for antique buttons. She whipped out tons of special beauties - metals, glass, mother of pearl, ceramics - you name it, she had it. I picked out my favorites and I walked away with a happy little bag full for 20 bucks.

On this day we visited a permanent building that I had been to once before (months earlier when I dragged my helpful children to join my search - but that's a story for a different day). This place is called the Brimfield Antique Market. Straight through the door, hang a left at the back wall, down several feet and there lies the mother lode of all mother lodes. I picked but didn't buy much there because I was out of cash. But I vowed to be back.

So fast-forward a few months. I go to the spot of the mother lode and to my horror, mother lode has packed up and left town! What a disappointment. The woman working there, who probably sensed I was on the verge of tears, was kind enough to give me the name and number of the owner of the mother lode - a.k.a. "the button guy."

I got in my car and called the button guy right away. I felt like I was on a drug quest - I needed to gain access to those buttons! The button guy had moved his stuff to a new location - the Vintage Shop in Conn. - his own shop. Whew.

So this week I finally made it down there and was surprised to learn that not all of the buttons had made it. He said he has more in storage and I'm convinced those are the ones I came to see. Well, I browsed around anyway and I found some very interesting collectibles.

(click image to enlarge)

Two silver button hooks that were used in the late 1800s to early 1900s for buttoning up items with many small buttons - womens' garments and boots.

A hand-carved bone hair pick/hair stick/hair pin - something like that - ca. 1800s - I'll have to do more research on this item.

A pair of large green celluloid buttons - they almost look like carved wood. I think these are from the early 1900s.

A bunch of small carved mother of pearl buttons with a purple tint added - gorgeous!

Some glass buttons from the turn of the century - they actually look like they may be mother of pearl.

Three different sizes of mother of pearl whistle buttons from the same time period.Whistle buttons have one hole on one side and two holes on the other.

And some snap cuff links from the 1920s-1930s - never saw these before and had to Google them to confirm my suspicion - art deco era.

There are some other items too: a pair of resin covered golfers, more mother of pearl finds, some hefty wooden buttons, a couple brass beauties and a tiny 4-H pin that I found cute.

My favorite? The snap cuff links - because they're new and interesting to me. I searched them out online and found similar pairs going for upwards of $50 - wow.

So, how much did I drop? A measly 15 bucks. I got an excellent deal and the "button guy" has definitely found himself a return customer - even if he didn't have what I was expecting to find.

Perfectly Normal: The Superhero Musical Hits the Stage in March

2009-03-01T15:30:00.000-08:00

by Deanna Roux

Two Chestnut Hill Community School teachers, Steve Walkowicz and Josh Guerraz, teamed up last summer to write an original play called “Perfectly Normal: The Superhero Musical.” At the end March, all their hard work - and the hard work of 100-plus students, teachers and parents - will be presented on stage in two performances at Belchertown High School.

“We had to write a play that involved fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders. It had to be kid-oriented with a lot of speaking parts,” Walkowicz said, “We had about five rewrites. It was like a summer job,” he laughed.

Josh Guerraz, Music Teacher,
rehearses with the "Super Chorus"
Guerraz, music teacher and life-long musician, wrote all the original music for the play and Walkowicz, sixth-grade math teacher, wrote all the lyrics, as well as the play itself. All the acting, singing and musical instruments are performed by the students. “We have six original songs in it and there are eight scenes. At times, we’ll have 100 kids singing on stage,” Walkowicz said.

This isn’t the first play the two have produced. “In the last two years we spoofed High School Musical and we called it ‘Elementary School Musical.’ So we rewrote the songs and it was really successful,” Walkowicz explained, “The kids loved it. We saw that kids really aren’t afraid to sing. Maybe it’s the American idolization of kids,” he added. This year the two decided to write their own musical to avoid costly fees incurred by copyrighted material.

“Perfectly Normal: The Superhero Musical” is the story of a fictional country that segregates all of the super heroes. They live in a camp called Super City. “The superheroes are obviously not too happy about this so they come up with the idea of inviting a perfectly normal family to live with them to show that perfectly normal people can live side by side with super heroes.” Walkowicz explained.

The play centers on this “normal” family and how hard it is for them to blend in with the super heroes. “It’s all about fitting in and what it feels like when you don’t fit in. It’s also about equality,” said Walkowicz, “It’s supposed to be funny - that’s what we try for - but it also has a serious side to it.”

In addition to the speaking parts, the show boasts over 50 cast members in a Super Chorus which sings throughout the musical. With the help of one of the teachers, they design their own super hero costume, write their autobiography and essentially create their own character.

To help pay for the play, the kids paid $15 to participate. So far, that fee has paid for cast t-shirts and part of it will go toward the background scenery. Ticket sales will fund things like lights, sound, and janitorial services. “The program will feature small ads bought by moms and dads. It’s all self-sufficient. There’s no money from the school and we didn’t get any grants because we started kind of late, but we’re learning what to do for next time,” Walkowicz said.

Walkowicz admits that it’s challenging to get through a 100-person rehearsal, but adds, “Five minutes after it’s over I always feel good about how much fun it was and how charged up the kids are.”

There will be two 7 pm performances on Friday, March 27th and Saturday, March 28th. Tickets are on sale now and cost $5 each ($3 for students and senior citizens). For more information, e-mail Steve Walkowicz.

Journey to the Bottom of the C, as in Clergy

2009-02-27T07:38:00.000-08:00

By Deanna Roux

I’m the type of person who likes to go to a movie without knowing too much about it. I like to be taken on a journey of sorts. When I interviewed 14 members of the clergy over the last year, I enjoyed every twist and turn. I was not afraid or intimidated; rather, I was excited and interested about what I was about to learn. Judging from my past life as a corporate writer, I knew that pastors, like executives, put their pants on the same way we all do - one leg at a time. I also knew that “what they do” is not nearly as revealing as “who they are.” For me, digging into one’s character is far more interesting to write about - and to read about.

It turns out the journey makes the person, which in turn makes the story. I have to credit, and thank, the 14 men I sat down with who graciously peeled away their layers to expose their journey to me. After meticulously quizzing these men and writing honestly about their lives, I thought it was fitting to share my journey as well.

THE JOURNEY

It seems to me we’re all on some sort of journey. We all have our own paths to forge, opinions to form, and crosses to bear. At times, life may seem like a series of random events, but I’ve always held the belief that things happen for a reason. I used to think that was my way of getting through the tough times. You know, “That which doesn’t kill me only makes me stronger.” It is true; it’s just that now I know God has been there throughout my life, guiding me and giving me strength.

I grew up in a (mostly) non-practicing Catholic home. My two older sisters and I were baptized and we made our first communion. After that, we’d go to church only when we visited our grandparents. We would walk to mass with my grandmother after an early supper. I’m sure I looked very confused by all the standing, kneeling, singing, reciting and such. I tried to follow along. Going forward, I didn’t really have that much to do with my religion, except for the occasional wedding and funeral. That’s not to say I didn’t think about God or talk to God.

In my early twenties, I moved to Atlanta and began to attend mass with two of my girlfriends. They were sisters I knew from back home, who grew up in a very large Irish Catholic family. They helped me feel comfortable in the church. I felt a sense of belonging and community, which was important to me, especially being 1,080 miles away from my family. The sisters and I would have many conversations about God and His ways.

When my sisters were married, for personal reasons, they both chose an Episcopalian (non-denominational) minister to preside over their ceremonies. So when it came time for my wedding, I planned to go the same route; until my mother asked me, “Why do you want to get married in the Episcopal Church?” Of course, my answer was, “Because that’s where my sisters were married.” My mom opened my mind to the possibility of choosing the Catholic Church and that’s what I ended up doing. One question changed my spiritual journey.

A short time later my marriage ended and I still had a baby son who needed to be baptized. That brought me back to the church - for a short time. Around the same time my oldest sister, on her own religious journey, was attending RCIA sessions. RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. In short, you learn more about your religion in order to make the necessary sacraments (she made her confirmation) to be in good standing with the church. She suggested I may want to do the same. I was suddenly a single mother trying to make ends meet on a 10-hour work-week - essentially working for health care insurance; RCIA was not a priority for me. But God was. I spoke to him frequently.

Next, my journey took me to a new relationship; a divorced Catholic man. We decided to have our wedding and our reception in a hotel. It was beautiful and we were happy. God gave my son and me a special gift and now He was about to give us all another - a baby girl. So again, a new baby sent me to the church. Now, many people might be thinking, “How convenient; you need something from the church so you go back.” I present a different view: that was my journey; it was meant to be. Many stages of my life have brought me back to the church. It’s God’s way of not giving up on me.

The impending birth of our daughter caused some huge turning points in our lives. We began attending mass every weekend. I opted to go through the RCIA process (several years after my sister suggested it) and finally made my confirmation. My husband and I received annulments, had our marriage blessed in the church and our baby girl was baptized. When my son (who was adopted by my husband after our wedding) made his first communion, it seemed like everything came full circle. We currently participate in religious education and our daughter will be making her first communion this spring. I look forward to seeing how the future will continue to shape our spiritual journey.

THE CALL

Interviewing priests, pastors and ministers has further enriched my religious journey. Talking about the reasons one becomes a pastor is quite interesting. But what I find even more intriguing is the journey they describe. Not all pastors wanted to become pastors. Some were actually very much against the idea. Some felt a calling. Some heard a calling. Some ignored a calling (for a period of time). Others felt it was more of a natural progression.

THE THEATER

The “theater of the divine,” as termed by Father Vern of St. Francis, seemed to be a common thread as many pastors had a serious interest in the big stage.

Todd of UCC Belchertown wrote an adaptation of a 1940s radio show for a Christmas performance that benefited the town fuel assistance fund; Rabbi Bauer of the JCA (pictured at left) was an opera director for 15 years prior to his current position; and Pastor Bruce of Hope United Methodist Church has a puppet ministry, performing part of his sermon to the kids as a bear from Maine named Portland.

THE RELATIONSHIP

The nearly universal concern shared by pastors is the need for individuals to enjoy a relationship with God. Most felt it didn’t matter where - their church or a church down the street - but having a spiritual relationship with God was more important than the actual religion. Pastor Dale from the Christ Life Fellowship (pictured with his wife and co-minister Fran) suggests religion is not even necessary. He said, “God doesn’t care about what religion you are; he only cares about what’s in your heart.”

THE ANOMALY

Coming from a Catholic background, and never having considered changing my religion, I was surprised to learn many pastors were not born into their religion and some didn’t even have a religious upbringing at all. More interesting, were the churches where what brought the people together was not necessarily their religion, but rather a sense of true acceptance. At the Assembly of God in Wilbraham, Pastor Brian Tracy (pictured at left) shared a surprising anomaly: they have many more attendees on a Sunday (about 325) than they do actual members (189). He cited the reason as “specifically reaching out to people in the community who aren’t of faith.”

THE CHALLENGES

Most pastors (Pastor Tracy excluded) were concerned about the number of members attending services versus the number of members on record. In other words, many have aligned themselves with a church, but far fewer actually participate on a regular basis. Most pastors with this concern had programs in place to help bring members back to the church community. At Immaculate Heart of Mary in Granby, Father Benoit’s congregation holds “town meetings” to help address the concerns of the people in order to attempt to fix the perceived problems. Father Vern of St. Francis (pictured at right - and my priest) implemented a post card campaign - a series of post cards sent to all members to bring awareness to the effects on the church when all members do not actively participate.

In doing this series, it is my hope that the reader has been taken on a revealing ride that shined a light in the shadows of their own spiritual journey. Where your life’s journey has taken you may not always be evident. Taking a step back in reflection may help reveal an otherwise hidden path. I would have to agree with the majority of the clergy I spoke with and say, choosing a relationship with God - in any small way you can muster - can and will improve your quality of life. I’m living proof.

My Gentle Reminder

2009-01-13T07:33:00.001-08:00

I hate the bitter cold. I hate being cold. I can't stand driving in the snow. I don't like how others drive in the snow. I'm not a huge fan of removing snow. I hate slick stairs and walkways. I don't like snow days because my kids have to stay in school while summer is starting without us.

When I was a child, my family lived in California for a few years. It never snowed. I don't recall being cold. I remember the ocean and the tide pools and the sun. I remember sun dresses and bare feet and vegetable gardens.

In the 90s I lived in Atlanta for five years and it snowed once the whole time I was there (one time too many). The whole town was at a stand still. They have no plows, no salt - not prepared at all (not that they should be - it is HotLanta after all). Trees in the Georgia clay were uprooted and fell over. Branches literally covered the streets. Random do-gooders were out in full force brandishing echoing chain saws. It was like a natural disaster had occurred.

The one (and only) thing I love about this time of year is the visual beauty. When the snow gently covers the dark bare trees, and it throws a soft blanket over the dormant grass, and a vibrant Cardinal floats through a sea of white and tucks down into the woody brush - it makes me smile.

The view from my house is hilly and woodsy. Our house is on a street that runs north/south so the sun rises in the front and sets in the back. This time of year, the sunset is a mix of oranges and pinks. I've tried to capture it many times, but a photo cannot really do it justice.

These photos are from December 10, 2005 - a friend took them from our back yard with his fancy camera.

And the following are my attempt at capturing our backyard beauty with my far inferior camera. I took these December 28, 2008 at 4:45 pm - it was actually very dark outside.

Yesterday, while coming home from a long day of shopping - in and out of the wind and cold - I was getting on the turn pike when a hefty hawk swooped in and landed on a heavy branch in front of me. I got a good long look at him and he reminded me that I can be happy - no matter the temperature.

God's beauty is there every day of the year, it just takes a little effort on my part to see it - in spite of the winter forecast.

Fan Promotion

2009-01-02T09:01:00.000-08:00

ON FACEBOOK

Visit my Facebook store, become a fan and you could win this pendant.

All those who "become a fan" of Fancy Free Jewelry Design on Facebook will be added to a drawing. The last day to enter the drawing is April 30, 2009. The drawing will be held May 1, 2009.

Becoming a fan is easy. Follow this link and choose "become a fan" on the top right-hand side of the page.

Sakura Glass Slide Pendant

The cherry blossom is the national flower of Japan. Samurai warriors were fond of cherry blossoms. The short life of the cherry blossom mirrored their duty to die for their master at a moment’s notice. In 1910 the Japanese sent cherry trees to Washington, D.C. as a token of goodwill and friendship. In 1952 America sent cherry trees back to Japan to replenish their collection following World War II. Sakura means cherry blossom or cherry tree (pronounced: sah koo rah).

I take a microscope slide, slice it in half, fit it with art, wrap it in foil tape, solder around the edges and complete it with sterling findings and a gemstone dangle. It measures 1" x 1.5".

God's Work

2008-12-26T21:50:00.000-08:00

IS ALWAYS AMAZING...

This video tells the story of Harmony Outreach in co-founder John Bentley's own words. If it doesn't tug at your heart, I'm not sure what will.

In 2008, we sponsored sweet little Helen from Harmony Outreach's deaf school by making and selling our "Hope Is Not Lost" bracelet. The bracelet is named after baby Hope, who we helped raise funds for in 2007 (the year we began working with Harmony Outreach) so she could have her needed heart surgery.

We will continue to support Helen until she graduates from the deaf school.

Thank you to all of you who have supported our efforts to help these wonderful children!!

Remember the Charleston: A New Antique Shop

2008-12-16T18:47:00.000-08:00

As published in The Sentinel 12/18/08

By Deanna Roux

After over 40 years of traveling, collecting antiques and doing auctions and flea markets, Paul and Mary Tetreault opened the Charleston Shop on North Main Street in Belchertown (across the street from McCarthy’s Pub). The store opened this past July and only a couple of months later, Paul passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.

Mary decided to keep the shop open and is holding down the fort with the help of her daughters and her aunt. She say’s her experience in Belchertown has been a good one. “The people here are so good,” she said. “I was working here the day after he died. A woman came in and she saw I was upset. I told her I had just buried my husband the day before. She gave me a big hug and told me her name was Mary. About a week later she left me a gift. It was a big white flower with a black background that read “light.” I thought it was a Georgia O’Keefe but it was her own work - she’s a photographer. That just shows you the kind of people that are here in Belchertown. It’s such a nice place to have a shop.”

Over the years, the pair have stockpiled furniture, collector’s items (records, stamps, cards, etc.), tools, ringer washers, organs, wood stoves, windows, doors and all kinds of knobs and gadgets from just about every state in the south. “We are like the General Store of the twenties,” Tetreault said “minus the food.”

Tetreault encourages people to come look and come ask. “If I don’t have it here, I can get it,” she said. “We have a lot of things in storage so whenever we sell something, I’ll bring in some more. So the inventory is always changing.”

Also available are used furniture, building supplies, and wood. Prices are reasonable and usually negotiable. The shop is currently open Friday and Saturday, 9am - 4pm or by appointment by calling 413-512-1373. They will expand their hours in the spring by opening on Thursdays as well.

Check out the Birthday Bunch

2008-12-11T05:29:00.000-08:00

ETSIANS WHO SHARE A BIRTHDAY

Hey check this out. It's kind of interesting to see how many people have joined Etsy in the past year. There are, I think, tens of thousands of Etsy shop owners, but here you can see the increase of the past year by looking at one day - December 11 - my birthday.

Last year, there were 147 Etsians who shared the day.

This year there are 378 who have my birthday in common - that's about 2.5 times as many.

Can you find me in both images? What about others? Not everyone keeps the same 'avatar' consistently, the little image that represents them in their shop and in forums, etc. How many Etsians can you find that are in both images?

Happy birthday to you December 11 babies - hope you get lots of love today!

Check out the full list ...right here. When you get there, move your mouse around and sprinkle some love down on us!

Note: these images represent the first 100 of each group.

Treasure-trove of PMC

2008-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

LOOK AT ALL THE GORGEOUS FINE SILVER WORKS

Today a fellow-Etsian sent me a note saying she put me in her treasury. A treasury on Etsy is a place where you can pick your favorite handmade works and display them in a neat little grid. I guess it gives those featured a little more exposure but it also allows the treasury creator to play curator. It's fun to curate, to be featured, and to browse!

Can you find my design?
(click on image to enlarge)

I hope you will consider shopping at Etsy this holiday and buy handmade!

Well dip me in wax and call me a candle!

2008-11-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

NO, REALLY...

For years, my kids have dipped wax blanks into colored wax to "make" their own candles at a local candle factory. We go to Yankee Candle at least once a year ... because that's where Santa and his elves have their workshop. If we're lucky we can catch Santa in his parlor so we can chat and share a special list.

I guess most people are familiar with Yankee Candle, as they are in hundreds of stores across the country. But I've been visiting the flagship location in Deerfield, Mass. since I was a kid.

At the Yankee Candle flagship you can buy all sorts of things: kitchen decor, bath accessories, Christmas ornaments, fudge, nutcrackers, toys, soaps, oh and even candles.

You can walk through the Black Forest and enjoy a light snow fall (every twenty minutes), and wander through the Bavarian village to witness a "live" bluegrass band up on stage. Or make your way to the Nutcracker Castle by way of the courtyard and enjoy the waterfall and coy pond.

Chloe's 'love', my 'peace', and Brendon's 'howdy'

This year, we (my kids, a friend, and my mom) found a new and exciting Yankee Candle feature. For five dollars you can make a sculpture of your hand in any position you desire (no, the center digit is not allowed). And hey, what can provide a more bonding experience than dipping your hands in hot wax?

But even if you don't spend a dime, you will leave with one very impressive gift ... the Christmas spirit. Well, that and time well spent with the children!

What Does Peace Look Like?

2008-10-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

YOU DECIDE

Everyone just wants a little peace, right? Moms want "peace and quiet." Dads want "peace of mind." Our little children want "peace on earth." Our big kids are "peace out."

Like me, on Sunday, you may offer a sign of peace with an out-reached hand and smiling eyes. Also like me, you may display a sign of peace for all to see.

I have a peace sign on the back window of my car. And I have a t-shirt with a simply stated peace sign on the front.

Recently I made a small "peace sign" collection. The first piece was for my son - a peace sign bracelet cuff - with "pax" (Latin for peace) and the peace kanji (Japanese symbol) stitched into the suede.

Here, I offer several options to help you express your interpretation of what peace looks like. Which one suits you best?

Elegant Peace Bracelet

Bulky Peace Cuff

Slick Peace Belt

Simple Peace Earrings

Wired Peace Earrings

Funky Peace Choker

Funky Peace Bracelet

LESSONS IN PEACE (from Wikipedia)

This forked symbol was adopted as its badge by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament in Britain, and originally, its use was confined to supporters of that organization. It was later generalized to become an icon of the 1960s anti-war movement, and was also adopted by the counterculture of the time. It was designed and completed February 21, 1958 by Gerald Holtom, a commercial designer and artist in Britain. He had been commissioned by the CND to design a symbol for use at an Easter march to Canterbury Cathedral in protest against the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment at Aldermaston in England.

The symbol itself is a combination of the semaphoric signals for the letters "N" and "D," standing for Nuclear Disarmament. In semaphore the letter "N" is formed by a person holding two flags in an upside-down "V," and the letter "D" is formed by holding one flag pointed straight up and the other pointed straight down. These two signals imposed over each other form the shape of the peace symbol. In the original design the lines widened at the edge of the circle.

NATURE'S SHOW

2008-10-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

A poem by Deanna Roux

they come down
like rain
colorful drops

like butterflies
floating
to the ground

light and busy
wind carries
crab-walk by

lovely turns
messy and soaked
don't slip

branches void
vibrant dulls
crunch underfoot

nature's show
closing act
rakes and piles

crispy air
frosty blades
sequel soon

Mud Spun Arts & Music Festival

2008-10-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

Columbus Day Weekend – Sun., Oct. 12 – 11am – 5pm

Mud Spun Arts Center, Belchertown’s newest art attraction, is drumming up attention for some local flavors in art, music and food.

Join the fun on Sunday, October 12 from 11am to 5pm. This free festival will be held rain or shine in the front parking lot at the Swift River Commons on Daniel Shays Highway (Route 202).

ART

Come for the art! See favorite local artists’ newest collections and even try your hand in making some art of your own.

LIVE MUSIC

Come for the free live music by in-demand local bands that will put a smile on your face.

Wild-Wood at 2pm - A Northampton band with stunning vocal harmonies, swampy soul, and acoustic wooden instruments melding into a country/folk/pop experience you won’t soon forget. Check them out at here.

Lonesome Brothers at 3pm - Original, creative, pumping, swaying, digging, rocking, blues busting, curve making, straight shooting songs and solos distinguish the Lonesome Brothers from any other band you've ever heard. Check them out here.

FOOD

Come for the delicious hearty food served up by Belchertown’s own Roadhouse Café, including some vegetarian options. When you think Roadhouse Café, think local farmers, fresh ingredients, organic produce, seasonal dishes and fair trade coffee. Think yum.

MUD SPUN ART CLASSES

Mud Spun Arts Center offers classes in clay, jewelry and glass. Fall classes are filling up, so contact Becky Laliberte (413-530-8883) to secure your spot now – or go to www.mudspunartscenter.com to learn more.

Cooking Up My Creations

2008-09-29T05:53:00.000-07:00

THE PMC PROCESS

You are invited to take short tour of my studio, where I will share with you how I create my Precious Metal Clay (PMC) jewelry.

Click the photo above to begin the photo tour.

Precious Metal Clay goes by several names: PMC, fine silver, pure silver, art clay - to name a few. I call it PMC because it's just quicker to say.

When finished, PMC is 99.9% pure silver. And you can do so much with it - the possibilities are endless!

To learn more about PMC, click here.

Ice Cream Cones or Boobies?

2008-09-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

BIRTHDAY GOODIES

How many birthdays do you have? I have one. I think most people have one. But somehow my kids seem to get to celebrate their birthdays two...three times...or more!

Well first, the day of their birthday they get to pick where they want to go for dinner. Like Brendon picked Chili's where we ate too much and they sang him a funny birthday song.

Then there's the classroom birthday celebration. Brendon's too old for that now (thankfully) but Chloe's teacher is ALL organized and she asked to celebrate Chloe's classroom birthday on the 25th. Thus, the goodies.

So Chloe and I made cupcakes inside of ice cream cones, which when frosted with a candy placed on top resembles a real ice cream cone - but it's a cupcake. Cute, right?

When I took pictures of the classroom goodies, I quickly realized they looked like a tray full of boobies. It may be that they don't really look like boobies and the people in this house have some weird obsession with boobies.

Like the time when I blew up some pink balloons for little girl's birthday party - they just kept popping half way blown. So I made them small. But the ends wouldn't expand and stayed a darker pink (nipple-esque). Basically I was decorating the room with a bunch of D-cups.

Getting back to the myriad party/celebrations. Sometimes there's a family party AND a friend party. If I'm feeling particularly ambitious, we may combine both kids and family/friends. Like one year when we had about 50 people in our back yard.

Both our kids have their birthday in September (21st and 28th) - one week apart. So we try to combine them as much as possible, which doesn't always work out. This year, Brendon worked with me on his birthday so we're having one family party on Chloe's day to celebrate both kids birthdays.

Plus, many people in our lives have birthdays in September: my sister is the 15th, my father in law is the 25th (shoot, that's tomorrow!), Chloe's good friend next door was earlier in the month, one of Brendon's good friends is the 26th, and I know there's more I'm not thinking of right now. (Oh, and Happy B-day to my friend Dan Lam today!)

So if you have a birthday this month, welcome to the club. Your booby cupcakes will be on their way, just as soon as I finish blowing up a fresh pair of pink puppies.

stART on the Street

2008-09-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

THE BEST STREET FEST EVER IS HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

Click on the image to the left to find out more about stART on the Street. You can even buy stickers, tote bags and the like with this image to show your support of the arts!

Last September was the first stART event in which I participated. Having had quite some experience in doing shows, I was very impressed. I highly recommend attending the streetfest - as an artist and as an attendee.

Top 10 reasons I loved doing stART on the Street last September (in no particular order):

Perfect time of year - sunny but not too hot
Volunteers were super organized, friendly and helpful
Customers were happy and buying lots of art
I made the most amount of money than any other show (even to date)
There was free music and entertainment
My son worked with me - and will again this year, even on his birthday and everything!
I met some awesome customers who became repeat customers
My tent was right across from a sushi place - yummy lunch
It was easy to find and didn't take as long as I thought to get there
Lots and lots of great artists - I was in such good company

The event takes place in Worcester, Mass. on Sunday, Sept. 21 from 11am to 5 pm. You should try to come out. It's going to be a great time!

Art Shows and Such

2008-08-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

GEARING UP FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

As you may have read, my kids went back to school today. It's time to get crankin' on some new awesome jewelry art! I'm pretty excited because I've been ordering lots of new supplies and now I have the time to put them to work.

My schedule has changed a bit. So here's an update:

stART in the Street
Park Avenue, between Highland and Pleasant
Worcester, MA
Sunday, September 21
11am-5pm

Art to Wear Jewelry Show
hosted by my sister, Denise Blais
Saturday, September 27
(private party)

Arts and Music Festival
Mud Spun Arts Center
Belchertown, MA
Sunday, October 12
11am-5pm

Winter Festival
Marketplace at Eastworks
Easthampton, MA
Saturday & Sunday, December 13 & 14
10am-4pm

Why am I "the only" mom not happy when school starts?

2008-08-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

A SELF EXPLORATION

Okay, so my sister tells me yesterday that I am "the ONLY person" she's heard say "I hate that my kids are going back to school."

My first thought is there must be something wrong with me. Why would I want my kids to be home longer?

I mean, I get it, when they go back to school they're out of my hair, I have more time to get stuff done and there's less whining and complaining for me to deal with.

But I still feel really lucky to have them here with me all day long. I'm fortunate to be a work-at-home mom and a (struggling) artist supported in every way by her husband.

So, after sleeping on it last night, I realized this morning, as I was giving hugs and making lunches, that most moms in my position are probably feeling the same way.

Even though my kids get on my nerves plenty (not to mention each others') - that is out-weighed by the fact that they're fun and they make me laugh until I pee.

And although I am "the worst mom ever" at least twice a day (according to one little girl) I get at least ten times that in hugs every day.

Other moms "like me" - a stay-at-home mom, a work-at-home mom or perhaps a school teacher mom - get to be a kid with their kids once June rolls around.

From September to June, I have to be productive - in my windowless studio, in the kitchen - in the house in general.

From June to September, I get to come out of my dungeon, play outside, swim with my kids and spend a lot of time talking with them - nothing as serious as organizing their schoolwork to help improve their grades.

We're all just more relaxed in the summer - mentally and physically. We wake up when we want to - not at 6:00 a.m. to catch the bus at 6:40.

I drive to Dunkin Donuts for ice coffee - not brew a hot cup and hunker down inside planning my day of indoor work.

In the late afternoon, we don't have to rush to dance and drums and other after school commitments - we start up a fire in the pit and make s'mores.

I mean, the end of summer is what we're talking about. It's the end of little girl picking me flowers, it's the end of bike rides and walks to the tire swing. It's the end of beach-going and the end of getting lost because we have no time restraints and we don't have to answer to anyone!

So, I guess there's really nothing wrong with wishing school could start later - which by the way, August 27? Really? Are you kidding me?

P.S. Don't get me wrong, I'm not looking for sympathy here. I know I have it good. I just don't get the same kind of fulfillment in let's say, housework, that I get from spending time with my kids.

Etsy Arts Festival Postponed

2008-07-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

PLANNING A 2009 DATE

The show at Eastworks, that I was promoting through my blog, has been postponed to 2009.

Moving the date out will allow organizers more time to get things in order and also allow artists to plan accordingly.

So look out for info ... and in the meantime contact me if you have questions.

Quick Like a Bunny!

2008-07-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

That's how fast I had to be to get this photo.

There's a little family of bunnies living (perhaps) under our deck. They come out in the morning and at night to eat the clover in our yard.

Mostly we see the babies, like this one. But once in a while we see the momma bunny chewing while nervously watching for predators.

I was able to get about six feet from this little cutie before he decided to take cover under the deck.

Saying Good-Bye

2008-06-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

IT’S NOT EASY

Sometimes it’s very difficult to let a piece of art go. Once in a while I make something that I am so happy with I just want to keep it around for little while.

This pendant is the first that I feel I was successful in all the aspects I self-critique the most. The patina came out the way I wanted – dark in the low spots and bright and shiny on the high spots. The Keum-boo bird is well-defined. And the texture is so crisp.

(Okay, I wasn’t too happy with the bail – it was a little too long.)

The woman who bought it from me at a local craft show yesterday was a return customer. She tried on at least five necklaces and went browsing around the show. She came back near the end of the day and bought this piece – one she hadn’t tried on previously.

I had finished it the night before and hadn’t taken a photo yet. Luckily, I had my camera with me at the show, so I photographed all my new pieces right then and there.

Well, suffice it to say, I will be making another one the next time I’m in my studio (with a shorter bail of course ;).

Fancy Free's New Medium

2008-06-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

PRECIOUS METAL CLAY

Precious Metal Clay (PMC) is an exciting material developed and patented in the 1990s by Mitsubishi Materials of Japan.

(click on photo to enlarge)

In the medium I work with (PMC3), microscopic particles of pure silver (salvaged from film negatives) are mixed with an organic binder to create a material that has the working properties of clay.

Using myriad tools, objects are given shape, texture, and character. After drying, the objects are heated to high temperatures, where the organic binder burns away and the silver particles fuse together to create a precious metal object - .999 percent pure silver.

Some pieces are treated to genuine gemstones and/or 22k gold bonded to the piece using an ancient Korean method called Keum Boo (kum-boo), which translated means "attached gold".

stART in the Park - June 1

2008-05-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

Come join me for some fun in the park...

Learn more ... stART here and here.

TEACHING IS LEARNING

2008-04-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

HOW I LEARNED TO TEACH

When the opportunity for me to teach a workshop arose, I jumped at the chance. So quickly in fact, that I didn't really think about how I was going to do it. So, not unlike the bear that went over the mountain, I went to the internet - to see what I could see.

Lucky for me, there are many people out there who enjoy writing about what they do - what they're good at. One web page I found had pretty much all the answers I needed. Actually, this site has a ton of helpful information I use all the time. (Check out Rena Klingenberg's web site for great tips on running a successful jewelry making business.)

My teaching space – tool kits, materials, inspiration in samples and magazines.

DECIDE IF YOU’RE READY – ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS

1. Do I like to teach, instruct, or stand up in front of a bunch of strangers (or even friends) and talk?

Okay, this is really public speaking, which let's face it, is the number one phobia in the world. I'm not a big fan of it BUT it is super easy when I know what I'm talking about. It's that simple. If I'm the expert, then I can talk about it all day long.

Here's a clue for you to know if you can speak in front of strangers: When you sell your creations, do you speak to potential customers about your work and how you are inspired and what materials you use? If the answer is 'yes' then you can teach a class of strangers.

And by the way, your students are not strangers for long. People come to a class like this on their own free will because they want to have fun - nobody's going to give you a hard time.

2. Do I have the patience to teach?

This is easy. You know if you do or if you don’t. I have two kids – yes, I have patience for miles.

3. Do I have the expertise to teach my craft?

Well, one might find it difficult to call oneself an expert, but consider this: Do you sell your jewelry? Do you get complimented on your techniques? Do other artists enjoy your work? Similar to patience, you know if you are an expert in what you are currently doing or not. That doesn’t mean you’re not still learning – how else are you going to grow as an artist?

4. Can I facilitate effectively?

I’m a planner. If I have a plan laid out in front of me that I can follow, then I know I can get back on track if the class gets side-tracked. And again, if I know what I’m talking about, then I know I can get my points across.

DOUBLE DUTY

Here are some instructor pointers I picked up from my recent PMC class. I basically observed how my teacher was instructing and I was learning a new skill at the same time. Man, I should have paid her double!

Introduce yourself – explain how you got to where you are and what you enjoy about it.

Student intros – ask participants what level they’re at and why they decided to take your class.

Tool time – have a tool kit for each student and go over them all before you begin so they can handle them.

Inspiration – with so many design options, help students decide what to create by showing them examples and having magazines available for them to peruse.

Demo – show how step one is done and then let them do it, repeat with each step.

Room to move – give students a reason to get up and move around – artists need freedom!

MY ADVICE

After teaching a couple of classes, I picked up some of my own pointers. Teachers often say they learn from their students, and it’s true.

My two students, Mary Jane and Becky, proudly sporting their new creations!

Test all new materials – even if they look exactly like what you’ve used in the past.

Know what time it is – get a watch or a clock for your teaching space.

Be flexible – even though a plan is important, realize things may change in mid-stream.

Ask questions – find out your students’ expectations.

So that’s it. Through this article, I hope I’ve been able to assist another artist who wishes to teach a workshop!

LOOKING FORWARD

2008-04-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FANCY FREE ME

Instructing: Beaded Jewelry Design
Mud Spun Arts Center
Belchertown, MA
6-week Workshop - 7-9 pm
Wednesdays beginning July 9

Craft Show on the Common
Town Green
Belchertown, MA
Saturday, June 14 - 9am-4pm

Crafts on the Common
Town Green
Amherst, MA
Saturday, July 12 - 9am-5pm

Etsy Arts Festival
Marketplace at Eastworks
Easthampton, MA
Saturday, September 13 - 10am-5pm

*stART in the Street
Park Avenue, between Highland and Pleasant
Worcester, MA
Sunday, September 21 - 11am-5pm

Arts and Music Festival
Mud Spun Arts Center
Belchertown, MA
Sunday, October 12

Winter Festival
Marketplace at Eastworks
Easthampton, MA
Friday-Sunday, November 28-30 - 9am-5pm

*pending jury selection

LEARNING IS GOOD

2008-04-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love to take an art class?

A friend and I went to New Hampshire to stay with my sister, Deborah. "The friend" is actually one of my sister's high school buddies.

We took a PMC (precious metal clay) class at Exeter Fine Crafts, a beautiful gallery and teaching facility. The town of Exeter is very artsy and there were lots of fun shops and boutiques to visit.

We made pendants using PMC clay, texture plates, stamps, molds and hand tools. We even used an ancient Korean method called Keum Boo (kum-boo), which translated means "attached gold". Everyone made quite stunning pieces.

Here's my piece. I used all hand tools to create the design, cut it out with a cookie cutter type of tool, and used a mold to capture the bird.

My bail is a little crooked and my patina is not quite right, but I love this thing and can't wait to create more!

HAVE YOU MADE A STATEMENT?

2008-03-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

AN ARTIST'S STATEMENT, THAT IS...

Recently, I realized I needed an artist’s statement. Being a writer, I had to make it the best I possibly could. Only one problem - I didn't know where to begin. So I did a little research (I love you internet!) and collected these tips...

Explore you

Be honest

Don’t be a cliché

Use powerful words

Give yourself credit

Write in first person

It will evolve as you evolve

More specifically, I learned a neat process - a self-interviewing technique - that really helped me uncover what was most important to convey in my statement.

As a writer, I learned long ago to completely spill every thought out onto paper - with total disregard to spelling, grammar or completed thoughts. Then go back, fill in the blanks and rearrange it into a masterpiece.

It’s like carving a whistle out of a branch. Build up your branch until there’s nothing left to say. And then start whittling it down, making sense of it all and connecting thoughts and ideas. That’s how I write. And that’s pretty much what I found through my internet research on writing an artist’s statement.

Here are two sites I found that had the most comprehensive help for someone with my specific needs:

Lapidary Journal, The Business Side

Molly Gordon, Master Certified Coach

I hope you find them helpful!

P.S. Here’s my statement. It's a one-pager, intended for hard copy use. Let me know what you think, or better yet, share your statement with me by adding a comment to this article (click on the word "comments" at the end of this article).

Deanna L. Roux
Jewelry Artist
Fancy Free Jewelry Design
P.O. Box 456
Belchertown, MA 01007

www.fancyfreeme.etsy.com
www.fancyfreeme.blogspot .com

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

I can't help it. Creative juice runs through me. I love to create! Among my original works of art are: written works (news articles, poetry, short stories, children's stories), glass murals, wall murals, acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, collage art, tile paintings, storybooks and jewelry – my favorite wearable art.

For me, the best thing about creating artful pieces of jewelry is two-fold: one is the personal satisfaction I feel when creating something out of raw materials, using my own hands and imagination; the other is watching someone pick up a piece I’ve made and compliment me on it by asking how it was made and listening to the story behind it.

The recurring theme in my work is an organic design using organic materials. I don’t like plastic and faux jewelry. So I’ll never use anything but natural stones, glass, sterling silver, seashells, leather and paper – things that began in or on the earth. I love to work with natural, organic-looking stones – stones that have blemishes; tumbled stones that resemble the way they looked when they were found. When I place a strand of these stones on my skin, they somehow make me feel connected to the earth. I begin a piece by observing the materials and letting them guide my interpretation of their beauty. Sometimes I don’t see it and have to put it down. Sometimes it never works out, but it’s hard for me to give up trying.

The number three comforts me. My two sisters and I make up a power of three – separate and strong, yet intertwined. Some of my pieces use a tri-dangle – each a solid individual, but when combined, create a beautiful, unique unit. And many of my tri-dangles hang from a circle – for me, a symbol of coming around to a full rotation of thoughts and behaviors. When I end up back where I began, the journey has fed me in a way that broadens my thinking and changes my behavior.

When people see my work, I'd like them to know it is an extension of who I am and what I feel; that I’m tactically translating my emotions into something personal and tangible – offering it up for someone else to own.

This guy is so funny...

2008-03-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

...I have to share.

Events by Eventful

My New Venture

2008-03-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

Fancy Free Me is Showcased in New Salon

Station 5 Salon is a new hair salon in Belchertown that used to be a gas station – for over 50 years. Before that, it was the site of one of the country’s premiere horse-drawn carriage manufacturers.

Back in the late 1800’s the carriage-maker opened up for business and the carriages were shipped all over the country. Our little town had a big name, as there was a little metal plaque on each carriage that read “Made in Belchertown.”

Anyway, as usual, I digress.

The new salon is very modern, but it carries an old-fashioned gas station theme throughout. There are shiny, rolling tool chests at each cutting station. And there’s a huge garage door that opens up to a cute outdoor patio – where you relax while your hair is processing. And there are shop lights that hang from the rafters. It is so cool and unique.

But, again, I digress.

The lovely owner, Deborah Lowe, has agreed to show some of my pieces in the salon – so I put together this sleek display. What do you think about it?

I am so excited about all these new ventures in my home town!

Calling Etsy Artists

2008-03-14T07:04:00.000-07:00

Organizing Fall Show Now

We're looking for some of Etsy's finest to show at a beautiful indoor venue in Easthampton, Mass. This will be an Etsy-only show to be held this fall. All the details have not yet been determined, but thought we'd get a jump start on at least finding interested artists. We'd love to find a wide range of artists working in all mediums. Please contact me if you are interested.

Date: Fall - possibly two days

Time: 10-5 - most likely

Venue: Marketplace at Eastworks (search my blog for 'eastworks' to learn more about the venue)

More Info: coming soon!

I've shown in this venue for over a year now and they are well-communicated shows. I always make about eight-to-ten times my booth fee. Won't you consider joining us?

Releasing the Artist Within

2008-02-27T17:40:00.000-08:00

Mud Spun Arts Center Offers Spring Workshops

Most artists would probably admit their art has taken a back seat to living their busy lives; caring for their families and advancing in their careers. Lucky is the artisan who is able to enjoy true freedom in making a living doing what they love. Also fortunate are those who are able to weave their art into their everyday lives. Becky Laliberte, owner of Mud Spun Arts Center, has done just that.

Laliberte, with her builder husband Martin, owns Swift River Commons (formerly known as Village Square Shops) on Daniel Shays Highway in Belchertown. Their property is home to small businesses like Amp Works, Real Fitness and Liberty Nails, to name a few.

Encouraged by her husband, Laliberte was able to carve out a space in their building to house her pottery wheel and kiln.

“Over the years, all of my studio time has been spent in a basement, either at home or in college. So having this new studio space, with its abundance of natural light provides so much inspiration,” said Laliberte.

Since the spring of 2007, Laliberte has been putting her studio to good use and making the necessary plans to open the arts center. The official opening will be this spring, when Mud Spun offers their six-week workshops for adults and teens.

Still in the planning stages for 2008 is an art and music festival to be held on the green behind the property on Daniel Shays Highway. It would include a showing of art from the various instructors, as well as other artists, a sampling of live music presented by Amp Works, and a possible “taste of art” for those who would like to try their hand at making a mini-masterpiece. Interested artists can e-mail photos of their work to Becky at Mud Spun.

BALANCING ACT

Back in high school, Laliberte discovered pottery during art class and has been drawn to it ever since. “I’ve continued to work with clay on and off over the years. It’s a gentle, quiet voice always calling me back,” Laliberte said.

Laliberte earned a Bachelors’ degree in art at Elms College and values art as a staple of the human condition.

“Art is such an important part of our culture and our existence. The earliest recordings we have, as a people, are in art,” Laliberte said.
Her secondary degree, in education, has allowed Laliberte to make a living as a teacher. Although not an art teacher, she taught elementary school in Chicopee for five years.

By offering art classes in her new studio, Laliberte finds a balance that she hasn’t quite accomplished until now.

“The center evolved out my desire to have a place to practice my own art and as a way to bridge my background in art with my background as a teacher,” Laliberte said.

AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Laliberte’s vision for the center is to provide an opportunity for people to learn something new from instructors who are willing to share art in a fun, friendly and relaxed environment.

“I see the studio as a place to immerse yourself in the process as you explore art,” Laliberte said.

Laliberte hopes to realize her vision as an artist and a teacher by providing the community with an opportunity for art enrichment. By offering workshops, individual instruction and fun get-togethers, participants can explore different forms of the arts.

“I’m so excited about the center,” Laliberte said. “I’ve been very fortunate to find talented artists who share this vision and actually have the time to teach a workshop.”

SPRING INTO ART

The following six-week spring workshops will begin in early March and run through late June. Each workshop is offered once a week for six weeks on a specific day, at a set time. Materials and use of tools are included.

Clay Tile Making, instructed by Becky Laliberte, will cover the basics of how to prepare clay, construct slabs, alter surfaces and explore various methods of relief carving. Participants will complete glazed, fired tiles that can be displayed as works of art or installed as functional decorative tiles.

Elements of Drawing, instructed by Jennifer Sinclair, will help sharpen participants’ abilities to decipher different values, identify and represent light sources, and employ perspective. Each class will focus on a different drawing element.

Beaded Jewelry Design, instructed by Deanna Roux, will encourage participants to explore basic beading skills, while designing and creating wearable art out of glass, metal, leather and wire. Each class will focus on a different technique and will yield at least one piece of jewelry.

Woodcarving, instructed by Elton Braithwaite, will touch upon the cultures of Africa and the Caribbean as they relate to woodcarving, while teaching the skills of ancient woodcarving. Braithwaite, a natural story teller, will encourage students to develop patience and concentration as they execute an original relief carving.

Interested participants should contact Mud Spun or go online to register at www.mudspunartscenter.com.

ART CAMP FOR KIDS

This summer, Mud Spun will offer a children’s art camp to give kids a deeper appreciation of art. Students will look at some of the great masters and study the different colors and mediums that were used.

“A lot of towns are having to eliminate art; something that makes for a much more diversified education. This art camp will be an opportunity for people who want more options for their children,” explained Laliberte.

Laliberte encourages artists (or artists in hiding) to listen to their inner voice and come explore their artistic talents.

“I think the world we live in sometimes robs us of our individual passions,” Laliberte said. “It gives me great satisfaction to be able to help another artist rediscover that.”

Reprinted with permission from The Sentinel, Turley Publications.

CAPTION ME, PLEASE

2008-02-12T18:54:00.000-08:00

My sweet kitty is all white with one blue eye and one golden eye.

He LOVES to be near us but HATES to be touched.

We've decided that he has a touch of OCD. The minute someone pets him or picks him up, his mouth gets ready to clean his fur. As soon as he escapes, he scurries away and gives himself a thorough bath.

Oliver James is always so impressed.

Oh, and he likes to sniff our toes...for a long time.

Can you provide a good caption for this photo? Add a comment and let me know your clever cutline.

INSPIRATION ABOUNDS

2008-02-12T17:03:00.000-08:00

Where do you find inspiration? This is an interesting query to me. I always ask this of other artists. Common responses seem to be: materials, nature, emotions and people.

Material Girl

Sometimes my materials are an inspiration. Like when I helped my son with a grade-school project. He had to make an unusual hat. We went “shopping” down in my craft room. We found tiny colorful rubber bands, and small wooden beads. Can’t remember how, but we made a musical hat. A string hung about ear level on each side of his head. When he pulled the string from side to side, the hat strummed like a guitar (if it were made out of rubber bands).

Nature's Bounty

Nature is so vast and is what lends itself to a ton of art I see: trees, oceans, leaves, birds, rocks, fruit, and so on. You see it in paintings, drawings, pottery, jewelry, everywhere.

And who could forget nature’s presence in poetry.

Trees

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

~ Joyce Kilmer

Emotion Commotion

When I was heavily into writing poetry, emotions were what guided my pen. When my emotions were in turmoil or at the very highest of highs, I wrote a ton. But when I was in a content place emotionally, I’d be at a loss when I'd sit down to write

Personally Speaking

In my current work at the newspaper, people are what inspire me. I enjoy having a meaningful conversation with my subject and uncovering what makes them unique and just like everyone else. Everyone has a story to tell. How someone became a small business owner is always related back to the person’s life story. I think articles are much more interesting to read (and to write) when you can learn about the person behind the scene.

My Inspirational Spot

(click photo to enlarge)

In jewelry design, I gain inspiration from all things: a beautiful painting, my kid’s art, a piece of glass, my sisters, a stone or my excitement for creating things I love. My studio space is full of visual inspiration – post cards that I pick up at art galleries, my jewelry sketches on scraps of paper, an animated butterfly an old boss gave me, a Waterford crystal seashell a friend gave me commemorating our trip to St. Thomas, and of course all of my sterling and gemstone components that I shopped oh so meticulously for.

So, where do you find inspiration? Add a comment to this article and let me know. Your inspiration doesn't have to be about art. Maybe you draw on inspiration for other things in your life. Sometimes I seek inspiration just to make dinner.

GO OUT FOR A WALK - AN ART WALK

2008-02-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

I've been invited to join Art Walk Easthampton. It's something I've been considering for a while but couldn't fit in. Last year I did more than 15 venues, including Marketplace@Eastworks, one of the stops on this walk and where I'll be showing.

This year I'm cutting back to just the finest art shows. So that's why I am officially signed up to show at this incredible event. It's the second Saturday of each month and is from 5-8 p.m. - perfect substitute for the (somewhat lathargic) movie scene.

More than a dozen venues host visual, musical and performance art in an energetic sampling of local, regional and national talent. You can explore Easthampton's best galleries, shops, restaurants, pubs, and music and theater venues.

Located on Pleasant Street in Easthampton, this amazing old refurbished factory building has an open floor plan and is home to artisan studios, retailers and residents. The first floor (street level) is where you'll find cute little shops and boutiques and where resident artisans show their wares.

ODDS AND ENDS

2008-02-10T19:26:00.000-08:00

Drawing in a Winner

To attract some attention to my blog (and to the charity bracelet project), last December I had a drawing for those who joined my mailing list. But I needed to drive folks there.

So I hit the Etsy forums and proceeded to post the bracelet, my blog and my shop in any forum I could find (related or not). I did this for a few days until I received a lovely-worded e-mail from Etsy Admin stating that some people might consider this spam.

Luckily, I had already received a ton of hits so I gracefully and apologetically bowed out of the forums for a while. I sincerely didn't think of it as spam until the admin mentioned it and I am sorry if I annoyed any of you.

Anyhoo, I did have enough participants to hold an official drawing. A person by the name of S. Thompson won and chose one of my festive Holiday Bells On magnetic pins. Thanks to all for participating!

Writing for My Dinner

Woo-hoo! I am so excited to get a regular paycheck for something that I love to do - write! I've written and had published ten (or so) articles in my local paper, The Sentinel. It's a great little community paper. My articles are about local businesses that have either just started out or have major change afoot. I enjoy getting to know the people behind the business and sharing, through my article, what made them who they are.

I Gotta Get the Numbas!

"Did you do the numbers yet?" "Are you gonna get me the numbers this weekend?" The numbers. The numbers. The numbers!! Argh! I hate numbers. It's not that I can't do it. It's just that it's such a process!! But yes, I finally did it. I figured out what Fancy Free Me spent last year - all the Etsy and Paypal fees, post office costs, jewelry supplies, event costs. And all that we took in - customer sales at shows, Etsy, gallery venues - all of it!

I got him (my sweet, bean-counting hubby) the numbas! Phewf.

So you wanna know? How'd I do in 2007? Well, I can only say this, I had a 200% growth rate. That's good right?!

Here are some numbers I can share:

2 - number of galleries that represent my work

17 - number of times I packed up my gig, showed, sold and packed it all back up and brought it home.

72 - number of merchants, venues, artists I paid for goods, fees or services

175 - number of revenue sources - customers, sales, etc.

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR................... ARTIST DEBORAH SPRAGUE.........

2008-02-10T16:22:00.000-08:00

ARTIST BACKGROUND

Deborah grew up watching over her two younger sisters. Her family moved quite a bit when she was young – from coast to coast and back again – until they settled into a small New England town. She spent her high school years in that small town and made many special friends.

Deborah has two handsome boys – one currently in Army Special Ops Training and one studying to be a fire fighter. She has spent the past several (almost ten) years with a wonderful man, with whom she recently exchanged wedding vows.

Anyone who knows her would say Deborah has a passionate and caring spirit. Always a good friend, she’s willing to lend an ear or a hand whenever needed. Her character has lended itself to her art. Deborah’s paintings reveal her emotions and point of view in a very pure way. Her art is not guided by technical strokes or channeling other artists. It’s guided by what’s inside.

I hope you enjoy the words and art of my beautiful sister, Deborah Sprague.

IN HER OWN WORDS

droux: When did you realize you were an artist?

dlsprague: My first love comes from appreciating nature and the beauty in it, and the feeling that it brings to me. I never thought of myself as being creative or talented, but envied those who are. When my children were older I had some time on my hands to spend in museums and galleries with the new love of my life. I found that the feeling I would get when looking at a beautiful piece of art was the same as when I was in nature. It was a real connection for me. I figured what the heck, I'll purchase some supplies and try it out. I just wanted the feeling of creating. I wasn’t expecting perfection or anything. It was really about the process - a journey. From there, my husband encouraged me to continue and gave me art lessons at the Boston MFA as a birthday gift. It was so inspiring to be surrounded by great works and then to be surrounded by other students who were also learning. I continued to take classes in oil and pastel. Some day, I hope to think of myself as an artist - but I love the journey.

droux: Where do you find inspiration?

dlsprague: I find my inspiration in nature; I love the colors of the natural world - the greens, golds, blues and the reds. I love to look at other artists' work; I love texture and thick brush strokes and vivid colors

droux: What was the first piece of art you ever created?

dlsprague: When I was about eight, I made a puppet out of paper and crayons for my little sister for Christmas. I loved giving it to her.

droux: What is your favorite medium?

dlsprague: That’s a hard question. I recently learned to paint with pastel so that is what I'm doing right now the most. I love the intense colors you get with pastel and the fact that I can leave it out and work on a piece when I can get to it. I love oils too; how you can put it on thick and be creative with mixing your colors. AND I really enjoy doing mixed media pieces with acrylic. This technique opens the door to doing pieces that are so different.

droux: How do you feel about parting with your art?

dlsprague: First I get nervous. I hope the person I give a piece to really likes it or at least appreciates it. When I'm doing a piece, if I know I'm giving it to someone in particular, I really think a lot about that person when I'm working on it. Since I don't live right next door to my family, it is a nice way to stay in touch - even if it is only in my mind. I love to give my art to my husband. He really loves my work and that I express myself in this way.

Deborah lives in New Hampshire with her husband Wayne, her two boys (when they're not at school, working or in training), and their black lab, Summer.

Coming Soon: Look for her art on display at my Etsy shop!

Invitation: Please leave a comment and tell me what you think about Deborah's art seen above (first two are pastels; last one is oil) - you can click on the photos to enlarge.

Mud Spun Arts Center Opens in Belchertown

2008-02-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

What is this? Deanna Roux, instructor?

Yes, that's what I said, sista (or brotha - whatever the case may be).

Okay, slow down droux. You're getting a little ahead of yourself. Do you want the long version or the short version? ... Just what I figured. Fine, short version it is.

A woman, by the name of Becky Laliberte (a mom and a potter), decided to open an arts center in our sweet little town called Mud Spun Arts Center. She carved out a spot in a building she owns - really a strip mall. (P.S. It's the same strip mall where my kids take music lessons and I had put my business card up on the music shop's bulletin board.)

Becky lined up several artists to instruct 6-week workshops for adults. She was looking to fill a jewelry making slot when she came across my business card at the music shop.

See, I can do short version.

The arts center is currently conducting open registration for the following:

~Elements of Drawing
~Clay Tile Making
~Beaded Jewelry Design
~Woodcarving

Mud Spun also offers:

~"Clay with Us" Get Together
~Individual Potter's Wheel Instruction
~Art Camp for Kids
~Oil Painting Workshop

Check out the Mud Spun registration form for all the details, including dates, times, and very reasonable prices.

Oh, and did I tell you? I'm instructing a workshop!

HARMONY OUTREACH, CHINESE BABIES AND A SYMBOLIC BRACELET

2008-02-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

Back in October I became interested in the work of Harmony Outreach, a 501(c) (3), non-profit organization, that literally saves abandoned babies in China. It’s run by an American couple, John and Lisa Bentley, who live in China with their six children. They took a huge leap of faith when they moved from their safe and predictable life to one quite the opposite.

I’ve communicated with them via e-mail for the past four months and have found myself looking at their photos, reading the many articles about their work and even listening to interviews that Lisa has given to a radio show – all to both confirm and understand their work.

John and Lisa live just outside of Beijing, China together with their six children Emily, Ian, Orly, Oliver, Reid and Levi.

THE BENTLEY’S STORY

Their story is a long one. But the short version is:

A slightly germ phobic mother of four young children is asked by her lawyer husband to go from living the American dream to an uncertain life in China.

She reluctantly agrees to a short trial period.

Many heart-wrenching trials, two adopted children and several years later, Lisa and John have no plans of leaving their ‘new’ home.

LISA IS CALLED TO SAVE

“A six-week old, badly burned baby is left to die in a field. The villagers stand around staring, unwilling to burden themselves with the responsibility of helping him. Despite its heartbreaking beginning, this remarkable story has an ending that's full of hope and inspiration.”

Learn the rest of their story here in an interview Lisa gave to In Touch Magazine.

Lisa goes on to write her first book, Saving Levi, which tells of her and John’s struggles and triumphs after their decision to help this dying baby. Later, Levi is the first child to be adopted into their family.

”I WANT TO HELP”

That was the title of my first e-mail to Lisa and John – “I want to help.” Simple. After reading the article in In Touch, which literally brought me to tears, I didn’t just want to help – I needed to help.

Sometimes when you gain knowledge, you also gain responsibility. I’ve always had a strong urge to help people who need help. Not people who want help or people who behave like they need help – but people who really have very little means of helping themselves. When I see that in someone, there’s no way I can turn away.

I decided to help by creating and selling a bracelet that symbolizes Chinese adoption. My husband Bob agreed to put up a few hundred dollars so I could purchase the supplies for the bracelet. November 12, 2007, the first day the bracelet was in my online shop, I sold two. The first week, I sold four. Our goal of selling thirty bracelets was reached before Christmas.

TINY BABY HOPE

We are so happy and proud to report that through the sale of this symbolic bracelet we have been able to donate over $750 to Harmony Outreach. We have chosen to have the funds go directly to Baby Hope, who was in need of heart surgery but didn’t have the entire cost covered. Her surgery is now completely paid for thanks to the thirty folks who have purchased this beautiful symbol for their loved ones and for themselves. Hope’s surgery was just a few weeks ago. I’m told she’s back at Harmony House and doing very well.

Hope - Ling Qianxu

Through this work, I’ve been able to meet so many wonderful people. Many of whom were willing to share their personal journals and photographs – all devoted to their journey to adopt a baby from China; many who are still on their journey, some sad, some anxious, but all ever hopeful. My customers (they feel like more than customers really) tell me the bracelet has such meaning to them and they fill my e-mailbox with special messages of thanks. But it is really them who deserve the thanks. They are the ones who are helping the world, one child at a time.

SWEET SWEET HELEN

Word has gotten around about the bracelet, so instead of abandoning the bracelet project, Bob and I decided to sponsor a child from Harmony House. Hope is completely sponsored, so we turned our attention to the other 32 children in the orphanage.

Helen - Wang Xinrui

A portion of the sale of each bracelet will go to help sponsor sweet little Helen - Wang Xinrui. Helen will turn five years old this year and is described as having a love of performing. She does not like sitting in a chair for long unless she’s drawing or reading a cartoon book. It was difficult to choose who to sponsor, because all the children really tug at our heartstrings. We chose Helen because her name holds a special meaning in our family. Look at her photo – she looks so happy and sweet!

HEARTFELT THANKS

A lot of gratitude and appreciation goes out to the many families who have adopted babies from China, sponsor a special little one from China or are waiting for their angel to be delivered safely into their family. You are truly making a difference in our world by saving lives from a land not seen - out of pure love and faith.

WANT MORE?

You can read all about Harmony Outreach and the progress of the bracelet project, by searching my blog for the word “hope.” (see the word "Labels" at the bottom of this article - click on the word "hope")

Please learn more about the needs of many children in China as well as Chinese adoptions by visit Harmony Outreach online at www.HarmonyOutreach.org.

It's been a while...

2008-01-09T11:22:00.000-08:00

I really need to catch you up on things around here. I think I'll give you a short list now and then a few full-blown articles in the next week or two.

Bob and I at the DCU Center, Worcester, MA 12/09/07

HOLIDAY ARTS HAPPENING

I'll start with the HUGE art show by stART on the Street at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA on December 9. Their shows are so well-organized and this one was set right before the holidays in a very popular venue with the Boston Pops on hand. Wow! So what was so huge about it? My expectations. Great people, low turnout. But ma hubby was there to keep me smiling!

HARMONY OUTREACH DONATION

My husband, Bob, and I - along with about 30 people from around the country - were able to donate a nice bit to Harmony Outreach this holiday season. Our bracelet project is still going strong - but with a change. A portion of the proceeds will go to sponsor a child at Harmony Family House. I'll be sending out a summary to all who participated and of course write about it here as well.

ON TAP FOR 2008

A few things I'll be focusing on this year:

~taxes (ugh!) - I need a system
~show schedule - only the best of 2007
~collaboration - with my sister Deborah
~gallery/boutique presence - I have some new contacts
~skill enhancement - precious metal clay, silversmithing
~new products - fun ideas coming
~writing - my local newspaper and my blog

I'm looking forward to getting back out to shows and meeting new people. That's what keeps me going.

I wish you and your family a healthy and safe new year!!

Yeah, it's ma birthday...

2007-12-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Check out the other 147 Etsians who share my special day. Can you find me in the crowd?

Happy birthday - hope you get lots of love today!

Check us out...right here.

WRITING FOR AN ONLINE AUDIENCE

2007-11-29T16:24:00.000-08:00

by Deanna Roux, published in The Storque, Etsy.com

My last job was for a corporate communications department - in employee communications. I was assistant editor for an employee magazine and online publisher for an employee intranet. I have some good info to share that I think you can use for writing up shop listings and blogs.

Let me begin by saying this – I’m not done learning. Times change, technology changes, and peoples’ needs change. Things are always evolving and you have to keep up if you want to stand out.

With that said, here’s where we were last I checked.

What’s In It For me?

People have little time and even less patience. Readers want to know “what’s in it for me?” in the first few seconds, otherwise they‘ll move on. Potential customers are consumers of your writing. Wow them with your art, but grab them with your voice first. And don’t wait until the end of your blog post to present a call to action (e.g. sign up, join, visit me, etc.).

Write As If Your Audience Doesn’t Know Anything

You are the expert of what you create. You know the size, length, and dimensions. You know the materials and components. Your words should tell the story your photos can’t. Don’t make them search. A shopper wants to know if it’s sterling silver or plated; cotton or rayon; and porcelain or ceramic.

KISS – Keep It Simple And Short

Yes, you need details, but don’t overwhelm the reader right to the nearest exit. Reserve space for sharing your personal views, techniques and inspirations. Go back and read what you wrote. Remove big words used only to impress and information that is redundant. Don’t drown your clever cut of meat with too much gravy.

Trick: Don't know all the ins and outs of Photoshp? Create a simple box with text and clipart in Word or PowerPoint - then paste it into a new Photoshop doc. Now just "save as" a .jpg.

Speed Bumps

It’s your job to slow the online eye. Give your reader something to stumble upon. Instead of using a large block of text, break it up. Use bullets to make a list easier to read. Use caps and/or boldface to make subtitles in your post pop. The use of whitespace will give the eye a break and it’ll make your blurb easier to read.

So what do you think? Are you up for the challenge? The challenge is not “writing.” The challenge is “taming the writer within.” So here’s your whip and here’s your chair. Now go tame.

Catch Up With Me This Weekend At Eastworks

2007-11-29T06:53:00.000-08:00

When I was in high school, I was allowed to leave early and go to work from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. I worked in a factory right next door to the beautifully repurposed factory building, Eastworks. Well now I'm back and what a wonderfully different atmosphere there is to enjoy!

Located on Pleasant Street in Easthampton, this amazing old building has an open floor plan and is home to artisan studios, retailers and residents. The first floor (street level) is where you'll find cute little shops and boutiques and where resident artisans show their wares.

Don't miss me at the Winter Festival this weekend - Friday, Saturday and Sunday - where Eastworks artisans and other invited artists (like myself) will be open for business right on the main wood-planked hallway. Hours are 10am - 5pm the first two days and 12pm - 4pm on Sunday. Come shop, have lunch and shop some more!

Gifts That Give Twice Are Twice As Nice

2007-11-20T18:10:00.000-08:00

My fellow Etsian, Phyllis Mufson, and I have quite a few things in common.

First, she is super busy being crafty, like many of us indie artisans. But she kicks it up a notch with TWO Etsy shops! One (Personal Treasures) with very high-end, gorgeous jewelry featuring quality gemstones in silver and gold. And another (Mufi Jewels) featuring equally stunning pieces with a more casual appeal.

Phyllis also blogs, like ma-self. Her blog is dedicatd to creative people and the creative process. On her blog, she features other artists and is currently showcasing a group of crafters who create for the good of others.

Check out her blog to see the many Etsians (like Phyllis and me) who are creating Gifts That Give Twice. Shop these artists this holiday season and your purchase will benefit all kinds of global groups including those who support children, breast cancer, HIV/AIDS, leukemia, animals and eating disorders.

Harmony Outreach Bracelet Project

2007-11-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

This gorgeous bracelet has a very special meaning. It’s a symbol for anyone who is lucky enough and blessed enough to have built their family by adopting a child – more specifically, a child from China.

This bracelet is custom made to fit a specific wrist – either adult or child. When you purchase the bracelet, I will contact you for measurements.

100% of the proceeds from the sale of these bracelets will go to Harmony Outreach, a 501(c) (3), non-profit organization.

Harmony Outreach helps to save abandoned babies and children in China by ensuring they receive the medical treatment, therapy or schooling they need while they complete their journey from abandonment and hopelessness to redemption and love.

They do this through Harmony's “Three Steps to Hope” program:

Step one is foster care – the child is cared for in a loving home setting at Harmony Family House.
Step two is surgery – the child’s special needs conditions are corrected.
Step three is adoption – the child graduates from the program and is adopted into a loving family!

The significance of each element of the bracelet is explained below:

GENUINE GARNET BEADS – The Chinese believe that an invisible red thread connects a child to loved ones throughout their life. The color red has become a symbol of Chinese adoption and safe travel.
STERLING SILVER CHINESE FAMILY SYMBOL BEAD – The Chinese symbol for Family is the focal bead in this bracelet and the focal desire for so many who come to adopt a child.
STERLING SILVER LADYBUG – The ladybug has been a symbol for good luck and Chinese adoptions for the past several years. Among the adoption community, a sighting of a ladybug means your child was born or perhaps the referral stork is in his flight.
STERLING SILVER HEART CLASP – The heart represents the love you will or currently do share with your special adopted child and your family.
STERLING SILVER HOPE CHARM – This charm symbolizes the hope you have in your heart that you will find a child and your child will find you. It also stands for the hope that we share for all children who need a family to love them. Additionally, the hope charm represents Harmony Outreach's Three Steps to Hope.

I was approached -- via my Etsy shop, by a potential mom, Rachel Meyers, of a potentially adopted child from China -- to help Harmony Outreach … please read my original post to learn more.

LUCKY BUG

The ladybug is a symbol of good luck in most countries. As a child who grew up in the US, I was taught if a ladybug lands on you, make a wish and blow her away saying “fly away home.” And, among the adoption community, a sighting of a ladybug means your child was born or perhaps the referral stork is in his flight. Either way, a sighting of that spotted beetle is lucky.

LADYBUG LORE

In the Middle Ages, in Europe, insects were destroying the crops. The Catholic farmers prayed to the Virgin Mary for help. Soon the Asian beetle came and ate the aphids. The farmers began calling the insect ‘Beetles of Our Lady’ - eventually known as ‘Lady Beetles’- then ‘Lady Bugs.’ It is recorded that the red wings represented the Virgin’s cloak and the black spots represented her joys and sorrows.

It was a much later invasion that forever connected the ladybug to the Chinese adoption community. In 1998, there was a delay in referrals. That was the summer that much of the US had an invasion of ladybugs. Immediately after, referrals poured in with larger numbers than ever. So, there is a solid foundation for the lore.

WHY CHINA?

Chinese adoptions are becoming increasingly popular in the US; American families choose to adopt from China more often than from any other country. In fact, since 1992, more than 50,000 Chinese orphans have been placed with American families.

Adoptive parents consistently cite the same reasons for choosing to adopt from China.

Chinese children are generally very healthy and well cared for.
Both girls and boys available.
There are many waiting children with special needs available.After 3 months, all parental rights of birth parents are severed, and all rights revert to adoptive parents.
Adoptive Parents need only make one trip to China.
Adoption can be finalized while in China if both parents are present.
Chinese adoptions are very affordable compared with other international adoptions.
Travel conditions in China are extremely safe.

WANT MORE?

Harmony Outreach:
http://www.harmonyoutreach.org/index.cfm

Adoption process:
http://www.harmonyoutreach.org/index.cfm?pg=doc&id=188

Adoption info and resources:
http://www.harmonyoutreach.org/index.cfm?pg=doc&id=153

Featured Etsy Shop - Coconut Palm Designs

2007-11-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

Coconut Palm Designs offers art with a tropical flair. Joanne, owner of this spicy Etsy shop, is a Canadian living in Belize, Central America. She’s an artist working in a variety of mediums, a graphic designer and now a woodworker.

Designing signs is her newest crafting passion but art has been in her blood since birth. The colors and designs of many of her pieces are rich and vibrant in color and point of view.

I’ve chosen to showcase Joanne’s amazing ACEO art. But first, let’s have a little lesson on ACEO art.

I didn’t fully understand this particular craze among artists until I went on a little online hunt. Here’s what I found out:

ACEO stands for “art card, editions and originals.”
They started out as ATCs or “artist trading cards” and were traded among artists.
Artists realized this was an opportunity for the public to share in the fun, thus ACEOs were created.
They’re individual art miniatures which pass hand to hand.
The only standard requirement is that it measures 2.5" x 3.5”.
It’s basically a way for the average person to own some art, at the same time offering exposure for the artist.

Okay, now that we have that out of the way, here’re the goods:

This ACEO (above) is an original pencil crayon illustration of a red eye tree frog (Agalichnis callindyas). These frogs breed in isolated ponds in lowland forest habitats. It is drawn on watercolor paper and is signed and dated on the back.

This ACEO (above) is an original drawing of a wildflower that grows in Belize. It is drawn on watercolor paper and colored with pencil crayons. It is signed and dated on the back.

This ACEO (above) is an original acrylic abstract painting done in primary colors and edged with black marker. It is done on watercolor paper and signed and dated on the back.

Want more?

Visit her blog.

Visit her Etsy Shop.

Featured Etsy Shop - Mommy and Me Boutique

2007-11-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

Many have featured the gorgeous items in The Mommy and Me Boutique. The shop boasts a variety of high end aprons and skirts for mom and daughter, plus some adorable baby bibs and burp clothes.

As I visited this sweet little Etsy shop I was transported straight into a chic fashion show. The photos are as classy as the items themselves.

I’ve chosen to highlight these three aprons for the domestic fashionista.

“Welcome to my kitchen. Can I whip you up a five-layer butter cream cake?” That’s what you will feel like in this rich looking color block apron with its heavy grosgrain ribbon sash.

This apron screams “I can bring home the bacon AND wrap it around some scallops AND pour you some pinot before you can say FLIR-tee.” Everyone will love love love this.

Put this one on and you’re going to feel like baking up a batch of biscotti. “Anyone up for some cappuccino and some chatty catch-up?”

No matter which one you may choose, these aprons will make you feel like a W-O-M-A-N. Very feminine and very capable.

Want more?

Visit her Etsy shop.

Visit her blog.

Featured Etsy Shop - Kreative Mindz

2007-11-06T20:03:00.000-08:00

Kreative Mindz is comprised of three individuals. Aly and Beau are a husband and wife team, supporting each other through love, laughter and creativity. An-G is one of Aly's best friends, who is a wonderful seamstress and enjoys sewing in her free time, when she isn't being a vet.

Together, the three of them make funky clothing, kicked up accessories, rockin’ hair wraps, soothing hot packs, bags, purses, wallets, and just about any other thing their creativity and sewing machine will allow.

In addition, Beau is a skilled craftsman and carpenter, so they’ve got some awesome wooden boxes and other wood features in their shop.

I chose to highlight these two beautiful artful pieces. They remind me of Kreative Mindz’s shop, work and the general feeling they exude – organic and natural.

The first one above, titled The Autumn Harvest, uses different fabrics consisting of organic cottons, batik cottons, hand dyed canvas and a piece of vintage upholstery fabric for the moon. It was appliquéd together with different colors of embroidery thread.

This gorgeous piece (left) is an Elemental Cloth, representing the water element, which can be used as a meditation wall hanging or altar cloth. It’s made with hand-dyed cotton muslin and a printed cotton blend fabric. It’s embellished with beads, stones and an abalone shell and has a pocket for intentions (or anything else you would like to use it for).

Aly and company have more of these fantastic elemental clothes in their shop – each representing respectively earth, mineral, nature and fire. These particular elements are derived from the African culture. Here’s how you determine which element you are. It goes by the last digit in your birth year ... Earth : 0 or 5, Water : 1 or 6, Fire : 2 or 7, Nature : 3 or 8 and Mineral : 4 or 9.

Want more?

Visit Kreative Mindz Etsy shop.
Visit Kreative Mindz blog.

Reach Out With Harmony Outreach

2007-11-04T15:57:00.000-08:00

Harmony Outreach is an organization that helps to save abandoned babies and children in China by ensuring they receive the medical treatment, therapy or schooling they need while they complete their journey from abandonment and hopelessness to redemption and love ... learn more.

Harmony Outreach is run by a husband and wife team, Lisa and John Bentley ... learn more.

They need help raising money to pay for Harmony House, where the children are cared for by a local Chinese family who act as their house parents until they're adopted ... learn more.

You can help by sponsoring a child ... learn more.

Featured Etsy Shop - Indigo Luna

2007-11-02T08:22:00.000-07:00

Rachel Kitterman of Indigo Luna is a self-described art addict. Her primary passion is fabric and she’s been making art quilts and dolls for over a decade now.

Other mediums she enjoys are paper, altered art, mixed-media, knitting, crocheting, jewelry, artist books and photography. She says, “Pretty much, if it will hold still, I'll make art out of it!”

Rachel also loves to write and she does a great job at it too! So, below you’ll learn more about Rachel, in her own words (from her Etsy Profile).

What if?

“I have always been an artist. I have always drawn, cut, pasted, painted, collected, sewn, written and dreamed. I have been driven by the question, ‘What if?’ (and fighting against its archenemy, ‘That won’t work!’)”

I like a good hat

"Among other things, I am a sign language interpreter, an energy worker, a minister, a blogger, a wife to a wonderful and creative man, and a mother to two wild and amazing little girls. All of these roles shape and change and inform my art.”

Inspiration abounds

“I am a 5th generation Oregonian. This lush and verdant environment is in my blood. I grew up in a valley surrounded by tree-covered hills. I memorized the names of flowers as a child. I picked baskets full of mushrooms in the damp woods and studied moss and built forts inside of blackberry thickets.”

Art-complished

Rachel’s work has appeared on the cover of the 2005 Quilting Arts Calender, in Artella Magazine, Art/Quilt Magazine, Fiberarts Design Book 6.

Rachel is also member of Etsy’s EarthPath Artisans Street Team (E.A.S.T.).

Want more?

Visit Rachel’s Etsy shop, Indigo Luna.
Check out Rachel’s blog.

A time of need - A time to help

2007-11-01T08:46:00.000-07:00

It seems so many are in a special time of need. I look at it two ways - either our world is in a state of turmoil or the media has been working double time to show us all the pain our fellow human beings endure on a daily basis. Maybe we've always had this amount of trouble but it wasn't always exposed. Or maybe in my ignorant youth, I chose not to see or understand the magnitude of things.

I don't need to go into all the details of war, abuse and destruction for you to know what I'm talking about. We all live the lives of others through the eyes of news reporters.

SHARE YOUR GIFTS AND TALENTS

So now that I'm in a heightened state of awareness, as you may be too, how do I decide what to do about it? Well, it’s hard. Not everyone can get on a plane and fly to the places where they can help or reach in their pocket and give to those in need.

What seems to work for me is something I read in a request to help with my church’s religious education program. It simply suggested to “share your gifts and talents.” That really makes it simple. Realize you have something to offer: baking, event planning, computer work, sewing, etc. and then put it to use.

BRACELET PROJECT

Recently, I was asked to donate a piece of my jewelry to an auction. The auction is being run by a person who wants to raise money for an organization that provides foster care, surgeries and adoptions for special needs orphans in China. The organization is called Harmony Outreach.

It sounded like a great opportunity to help. But what I’d like to do is take it a step further. I’ve asked a couple of my vendors to donate supplies so I can create a bracelet with a cause. So far, I haven’t heard back from them, which can be discouraging, but I’m not giving up that easily.

Once these vendors come through (I have faith in them!), a sweet bracelet will be created and sold on my Etsy shop, at the shows I attend and hopefully at the gallery venues that currently represent my work. 100 percent of the sales of these bracelets will go directly to Harmony Outreach. Look for future articles on the progress of this work.

DONATE TO THE AUCTION

To donate an article to the auction, please contact Rachel Meyers. She is from Columbus, Ohio and is currently in the process of adopting one the fortunate children in the Harmony Outreach program.

HARMONY OUTREACH

Harmony Outreach is the ministry of John and Lisa Bentley and provides foster care, surgery and adoption for special needs orphans who would otherwise be cast aside and unwanted. The ministry is also creating partnerships with other orphanages, many of which need the wisdom and guidance that John and Lisa are able to provide.

To learn more about Harmony Outreach and all the wonderful work they’re doing, please visit their web site.

Here's another great place on the web that features stories and photos of a group who visited China to work with 3 orphanages and more than 100 children.

So yes, our help is needed in so many places. I hope you find a way to use your gifts and talents to make a difference in our world.

Happy Boo-thday

2007-10-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

I just found out there's a birthday page for Etsian's. Geez, they think of everything, those Etsy makers.

There are 164 Etsy members who are celebrating a birthday today! Happy birthday - hope you get lots of treats.

Check it out...right here.

Featured Artist – Creative Sundries

2007-10-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

Creative Sundries is a mother (Carol) and daughter (Sarah) working team who have an obsession for things of the past. Below, we have four examples of their passion.

I love the way they took the car fuses and made them into earrings. But some items are perfect just the way they are, like the glass owl bank. And then, sometimes they create new items from scratch, like the crocheted cuff. Then there’s always the find that sort of (re)creates itself, like the plastic slide necklace.

No matter what you admire about their work, I’m sure you’ll agree that it is unique and will make a statement in your home or on your person.

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR CREATIVE SUNDRIES

Inspiration?
Carol and Sarah take inspiration from whatever catches their eye. They seek and find many different types of treasures that they take back to their studio and repurpose, recycle and/or alter.

Favorite materials?

plastic charms
vintage game pieces
odd papers
Loteria (Mexican lotto) cards
images from kitschy cookbooks
vintage children's books
glass
sterling silver
buttons

Still to learn?

stained glass
soldered pendants
copper and other metalwork and jewelry
crochet

Can't live without?

mod podge
scissors
glue sticks

Shoutout?
“We're thankful to have each other's encouragement, and have found awesome support and friendship through the Etsy Minnesota street team.”

Please visit Creative Sundries on:

Etsy

Blogger

Indiepublic

90 Day Challenge Treasury

2007-10-29T05:41:00.000-07:00

My sweet Cherry Blossom Pendant is currently being featured in an Etsy Treasury.

Thank you for the honor ContasBrasil!

-ContrasBrasil Etsy shop
-ContrasBrasil Blog

She also has a second treasury out there. Both feature the 90 day challenge participants.

About the challenge

The 90 day challenge charges participants to write feature stories about 90 Etsy artists in 90 days. The stories are posted on the writers blogs each and every day. To learn more about the challenge and participate, read the forum thread here. We're still looking for more Etsy bloggers.

How exciting...

2007-10-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

I've been featured on a fellow-artist's blog. Please take a moment to visit's Eva Felicity Design's blog.

October 25, Blossoms Alive

2007-10-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

The official first day of fall was Sept. 23, but we haven’t seen fall-like temperatures until today. October had temps in the 70’s and 80’s. But today, with the sun out in full force, was a chilly 55 degrees.

My garden hasn’t been very kempt this summer. Luckily, many of my favorites seem to tend to themselves. But now it’s October and they’ve been happy with the extended warm temperatures.

My sweet pea has never seemed to take to the trellis that was specifically placed for its use. However, its curly tendrils did find the new fence we installed mid-summer with ease.

The sweet little pink rose bush has hardly had an eye spy it all season. But this beautiful blossom comes out to greet the warm air as well. Her sibling buds were ready and waiting for their turn.

This very hardy dianthus stands tall among the old dried stems. She lifts her face to the sun and tells her sisters the coast is clear and bright.

Look closely and you’ll see the stamen inside the radiant glow of this vibrant bloom. It’s my favorite, reliable friend; always open to hear me say “good morning glory” when I come back from the bus stop each morning.

Their pretty pink and purple presence have me yearning for summer already, but I know I’ll see my friends again when the days are longer and steady.

(Photos taken Oct. 25, 2007)

Featured Etsy Shop - Cryztalvisions

2007-10-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Cryztalvisions comes from a long line of artistic souls and has been fascinated by crystals and stones for as long as she can remember. She’s had some wonderful teachers who have passed on to her their passion for nature, geology, crystals and gemstones. Listen in while she serves up her "cryztal" clear views and methodologies.

Media masters: "When I'm learning a new technique or process I find people I consider to have mastered the media and take my inspiration from them as I learn."

Treasured tools: "Silver is my preferred metal. I seek out unusual stones to design around; I'm always looking for new ways to push my designs. But it’s my hands that are my most treasured tools."

Natural inspirations: "My best inspirations always come from nature. Whether it's a walk through the woods or a visit to the beach, I always come back to my workshop refreshed and full of new ideas."

Gem array: "Sometimes all I need to do is spread out some gemstones and I start to envision new designs. It's as if some pieces actually design themselves."

Personal matters: "No matter what you do or how skilled you are at your craft, there will be people who are attracted to it … and people who are repelled by it. In any case, don't take it too personally."

Self affirmations: "Stay true to yourself and follow your passion. When you do, everything else falls into place. "

Words I live by: "Live, laugh, love and most of all … create!"

http://www.cryztalvisions.com/
http://cryztalvisions.typepad.com/

Featured Etsy Shop - Eva Felicity Designs

2007-10-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

What does Eva Felicity Designs feature in her Etsy shop? No, the question is what does Eva NOT feature in her Etsy shop. Eva has aprons, apothecary/spa products, stitch kits, glass magnets, beaded jewelry, paper products like gift tags and note cards … umm … pet clothes, ornamental signs and paper cones, sachets, and photography. Wow.

Before you ask, yes, it’s all handmade by Eva. And yes, it’s all very well-crafted and quite attractive! Her passion for crafting is evident in every item, as well as her passion for making everything look just so.

My top three Eva Felicity Designs were not easy to choose. But here goes…

First up – Eva’s scrumptious-sounding Deja-vu Vanilla Milk Bath, which is handcrafted in small batches from 100% pure essential oils and top grade natural products. It’s a “soothing smoothing and relaxing milk bath” that does not use synthetic chemicals or dyes. Yum.

Number two is Eva’s Vintage Style Apron. I absolutely love this beautiful little number, which is of course handmade by Eva. The fabrics are a perfect choice for any domestic goddess. Or, if you just want to pretend to be a super star in the kitchen, wear it out to get the mail – it’ll impress the neighbors.

Third one - now, if I just said “check out some paper cone decoration thingies.” You might think, “yah…no.” Luckily through the magic of computer graphics, you can see for yourself. These are the neatest and the sweetest! I love a vintage flair and these definitely have it.

It was such a pleasure stepping into Eva Felicity Designs' well-rounded shop. I leave, with my senses heightened and my creativity inspired.

I think I … do I smell … cookies?

http://evafelicity.blogspot.com/

Featured Etsy Shop – Earmark Invitations

2007-10-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Today I'm checking in on a new favorite of mine – Earmark Invitations. Let’s see, we’ve got intelligent quips, colorful quotes and graphical greetings – all on recycled paper? Yes, that’s what I said, recycled paper. So many people are looking for cleaner, greener ways to conduct their lives. Earmark fits the bill and then some.

Earmark offers a wide array of paper products like invitations, greeting cards and thank you notes. Their stationary products fit into (at least) three categories - traditional, vintage and humor.

It’s not easy to create something that has a traditional sensibility while offering a unique, artful design. But that’s what you’ll find at Earmark. Take this thank you card. It’s a traditional message with a stunning sterling design printed on the bottom using a letterpress.

Vintage can mean so many things these days and it’s used in so many applications. I think these have a vintage appeal because of the color pallet, the imagery and the quotes that are used.

For me, what sets them apart from others is the combination of simple graphical elements and tongue and cheek sayings. A sense of humor is always important to maintain, even when you’re telling someone they didn’t do their part as expected.

Earmark offers many other handmade goodies as well; like journals, magnets and even computer graphics for your own Etsy shop. Oh, and they can customize your order too!

These are just some of the elements I found noteworthy at Earmark. Check them out and see how you can "create happiness" in someone's life.

psst...have you heard about Etsy?

2007-10-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Etsy is your place to buy and sell handmade goods. It's a tight little community of only 550,000 registered users, 60,000 of whom are individual artists selling more than 700,000 of their handmade creations.

My shop on Etsy (shameless plug) features unique jewelry using sterling silver, natural gemstones, seashells, leather and glass. Designs are organic in nature with vintage, Asian and oceanic elements. But there are tons of other artist types - potters, watercolor artists, knitters, sewers, candle makers, woodworkers, glass artists - to name a few. Also, this is the place to go if you're looking for a very specific piece - try searching "purple people eater" and you'll see what I mean.

It's super easy to create an account on Etsy - which you need to do in order to buy or sell. But you don't have to give any personal info if you don't want to; you can even be totally anonymous. Once registered, you're able to use all the cool features like chatting in the forums, learning about events and how-tos in The Storque, shopping by categories and marking your favorites for later reference.

Speaking of favorites, above are some of mine. This gives you an idea of the quality and variety of items out there. Enough with this, just go already. You won't be sorry!!

So, go to Etsy now and journey to the land of handmade and find out how you can shop by a specific shade of any color, by a geographic location or by time travel! And no, Rod Sterling is not your guide.

I'm a writer - I should have a blog

2007-10-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted to be a writer when I was young. I loved to take pencil to paper and create something out of nothing but my imagination. It must have been the 5th grade when my teacher called me up to his desk and asked me a very confusing question that left me feeling confident yet a little guilty. He wanted to know if the story I wrote was really written by me. Oh, I get it; he thinks someone else wrote my well-constructed work of art entitled, Pink Ink. Of course not, but it has stuck with me all this time. And thus entered the eternal, ever-present question lurking in the mind of the true artist - "am I really that good?"

So now, I AM a writer ... and a painter ... and a jewelry designer ... because I said so. Currently I design jewelry. That means I think of a design, I shop for the supplies, I produce it, photograph it, list it and I make some more and then I promote it, advertise it, sell it, ship it, and pack it up to show it and bring it back home. All the jobs I’ve had have led me here and make it possible for me to get it all done. The best part is nobody tells me what to do or how to do it. Or that I didn't do it right or not quick enough or whatever.

Really, I’m an artist - in all facets of the word. My mind is always thinking about what I can create next - whether it's a piece of jewelry, a poem, a collage or dinner. I’m so lucky to be able to express myself creatively full time. Thanks Director Bob!