The Bead Show

Call me crazy, but I am heading to San Mateo AGAIN this Saturday (just was there last Saturday to attend Maker Faire) to attend the International Gem & Jewelry Show. I am so excited because my very favorite creative thing to do is to make jewelry. I say that because I can sculpt, paint, refashion, etc. and I usually go through a phase of intense focus on something and then master it (at least as much as I want to), and then my attention turns to the next creative thing. But jewelry making has held my attention for over 4 years and I am still an addict. I only sell my creations in order to pay for my habit. My latest muse is mixing metals and vintage pieces with sterling silver and gemstones. I find myself wandering into antique shops or even looking through my old jewelry to find pieces that I can dismantle and remake into new vintage creations. I sell my jewelry a couple times a year when I am invited to participate in art shows or I set up a holiday boutique with friends. I also sell it to friends and co-workers throughout the year. And I always give it away as gifts. One of my goals for this year (and I am running ut of time!) is to set up my own, non-corporate blog where I can just ramble on about my artistic endeavors and show off my jewelry and painting skills. Another goal is to open my own Etsy store. It just takes a little time, and that is just about all I have, too. It is often a juggling act with children, a fabulous job and a home that needs some attention. But I want to do this. I want to do more than feed my habit. I want to prosper in this creative venture. I will keep you posted.....