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!!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Remember the Charleston: A New Antique Shop
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.
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.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Check out the Birthday Bunch
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.
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.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Treasure-trove of PMC
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!
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!
(click on image to enlarge)
I hope you will consider shopping at Etsy this holiday and buy handmade!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Well dip me in wax and call me a candle!
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!
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!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
What Does Peace Look Like?
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.
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?
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.
Friday, October 24, 2008
NATURE'S SHOW
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
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
Friday, October 3, 2008
Mud Spun Arts & Music Festival
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.
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.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Cooking Up My Creations
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Ice Cream Cones or Boobies?
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
stART on the Street
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):
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
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Art Shows and Such
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.
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?
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.
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.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Etsy Arts Festival Postponed
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Quick Like a Bunny!
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.
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.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Saying Good-Bye
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 ;).
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 ;).
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Fancy Free's New Medium
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".
Precious Metal Clay (PMC) is an exciting material developed and patented in the 1990s by Mitsubishi Materials of Japan.
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".
Monday, May 19, 2008
Sunday, April 20, 2008
TEACHING IS LEARNING
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!
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.)
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.
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!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
LOOKING FORWARD
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
