Try this at home...

I’m one of those people who collect things. You never know when you might be able to actually DO something with them. I found myself with quite a collection of seashells, drift wood colored glass marbles and sea glass all collecting dust in the house. After one trip to the lumber yard for a bag of fine white sand I set about creating my own personal beach outside the front door of the studio. I have this space where it’s supposed to be landscaped with white rock – and it was- along time ago. The white rock has slowly disappeared over the years- I have no idea where it went- but I was left with this shabby looking space. The perfect place for my beach! I poured white sand over what was left of the rocks. Gathered up all my sea shells, driftwood and glass marbles and placed them on top of the sand. For a splash of color I moved two of my potted geraniums to my “beach” and worked them down into the sand to make it look as if they had been there forever. Everyone who comes into the studio comments on my beach, children especially like it and frequently ask if they can have a shell or a rock. Just like a real beach there is an ebb and flow with the waves and shells get replaced by new ones that I find as I wander through thrift stores and flea markets. For a quick escape I can look at my beach and pretend for a few moments that I am someplace else. No worries.

inside "Outside the Lines"

Reading at Borders Books

So here I am reading my book outloud to a group of 30 attentive patrons at Borders Books in Ames. I was nervous and a bit scared. Not sure what the evening would bring. Had a moment where I almost couldn't do it then finished. Now I have another reading at the public library in Audubon. I am feeling much more confidant about this one. I know what works and what doesn't and what to do and expect. Whew...thoses firsts are always the hardest!

So what's new?

What's new in the studio? Some serious rhinestones. I got this piece from an estate sale recently. It is FABULOUS! It was made by the Schreiner Co. of New York. I did a bit of research on it. It is called an opera bib. Schreiner worked for Christian Dior until 1939 then he started his own company until 1973. His pieces were made one at a time instead of mass produced. He was well known for his inverted stones- meaning he put the facets on the outside. It's an interesting mix of colored glass stones and pearls and turquoise. I am thinking this piece was made in the late 50's. It weighs one pound. When I tried it on I felt like a queen!

my oldest best friend

My oldest best friend in the world bought a copy of my book. I shipped it out all official like with a printed invoice and printed mailing label. We've been friends since the 4th grade. She has a blog and had this to say. She is really ,y best friend ever in the world.