Let's talk about earrings...

Up until about a year ago, I never saw much merit in earrings. I always liked wearing them, and I thought they could add something to an outfit, but they just weren’t fun to make.

(I know, right? A jewelry designer who doesn't didn't like to make earrings? What's UP with that?)

So, I made them mostly to match bracelets or necklaces so that people could buy sets instead of single pieces of jewelry.

People like sets.

I like sets!

But for some reason… earrings just weren’t fun to design.

Until now.

About a year ago, I ran out of ear wires. Instead of doing what I always did, and ordering more… I decided to start making my own. I mean, I work with all this wire all the time, so why not make my own dang ear wires, right?

Little did I know this would open up the world of earrings for me. That’s all it took!

I felt something release in me, and I was able to make earrings just for the sake of making earrings.

I now have lots of earrings that aren’t made specifically to match any of my other pieces of jewelry. Now, a lot of them DO go with necklaces or bracelets I have, but a lot of them don’t.

And I like that!

I never realized that earrings could be so fun to make, and so gratifying to look at.

The only down side is the time. I used to whip out earrings by the dozens… but now sometimes I spend 45 minutes or so making one pair, to get the wire “just right” so the pair is relatively even. What used to take me 10 minutes now takes 45? Wait, I thought I was trying to become more efficient, not less?

Between the hammering, measuring, filing, bending, etc… yes—it does take longer. But it’s so worth it! I can now make earrings that speak to who I am as an artist, instead of earrings that happen to match whatever necklace I’ve made them to go with.

It’s a huge shift in me… in more ways than one. I now find myself craving making earrings, seeing what else I can do with the ear wire, seeing how else I can push my envelope on design.

Sometimes, all you need is a different perspective on life. Something to flip a switch inside of you so you see the situation differently and perceive your reality in a new light.

Sometimes, it's as simple as bending your own ear wire...

My Latest Obsession...

Spring has sprung! I've been a busy bee, making jewelry. Here are some earrings for your viewing pleasure...

These glowing beauties are available here.

Abalone circles are available here.

My latest obsession, though... rings! I've gotten some quality but less expensive materials and I've been going to town. These rings are meant to be fun, and since I'm focusing on using project leftovers as the focal beads... they are also meant to be affordable.

I've already got two set aside for me, and I've put the rest up for sale in my Etsy shop. I'm making more every day and I hope to get those posted soon!

Here are a few for you to preview...

I have a really big post brewing for my one year anniversary of heading to Italy. What a trip that was... it changed my life. I think everyone will enjoy the post... so stay tuned! It's coming soon. 

I've been debating applying for a couple of shows this season. I can't decide, honestly. With my husband being unemployed, and with me facing a lag in work, I find myself wanting to hold on to money rather than spending it on booth fees.

Please keep your fingers crossed that I'll be working again soon, and that my hubby will find a job. He's been unemployed for over a year. I understand that many of us are going through tough times. It's vital to stay positive and keep that chin up. 

Hold on to hope, and turn to your loved ones for support. We've all got to stick together!

To that end... allow me tell you a little about what I do, and perhaps you can help.

I am an Instructional Designer/Training Specialist. Basically that means I designand often develop courses for adults. Think of an Instructional Designer as someone who creates lesson plans-- deciding what the learner needs to know and the best way to teach it. 

These days I mostly focus on eLearning, or web-based training. I have created courses for small to large companies, with small to large budgets. I've also created computer-based training and instructor-led courses, including supporting documentation (manuals, job aids, etc). 

Most of my background is for creating courses for proprietary software and soft skills, like customer service. I've got a wide background of experience, and I'm looking for contract work for the next month or two.

If you have any leads, please drop me a line! If your company has a need, let me know. Part of an Instructional Designer's job is needs assessment.

Thank you ;-)

My Latest Pieces

Ok. Here's the piece that I'm very proud to show you. The focal gemstone is citrine! I love this necklace and I have already decided to keep it. You can't change my mind. At least, not at this point in time. ;-)

I really pushed myself with the color combinations in this necklace. As soon as I saw this bead, though... I knew that yellow had to be the central color of the necklace, with lots of other fun colors added in.

This is another with a Sarah Hornik bead, named Fantastico! as the centerpiece. Isn't it a lovely one? 
I also used peridot and shiny Swarovski crystals, with sterling silver wire. This necklace makes me feel happy and light. It reminds me of my time in Italy, which is fitting, since Sarah made the focal just after we all got back to our respective spots of the world after Murano Magic.

Now, for my next piece... this one uses gorgeous Peruvian Blue Opal as the main gemstone, with a couple of pieces of citrine, and Swarovski crystals. Another Sarah Hornik bead as the focal. I love this necklace too, and have also decided to keep it. I always end up keeping my best pieces!! Even when I don't mean to!

Check out the matching earrings, too.... this glowing Peruvian Blue Opal is magical, isn't it? It's even better in person, too!

Wow... December??

I can't believe it's December, and Christmas is just around the corner. Where did November go? For that matter, where did October go??

I have been working quite a bit, which limits my jewelry design time. I'm definitely not complaining-- I am incredibly thankful to have a job, unlike so many (including my hubby). It's increasingly difficult for me to ask people to buy jewelry from me. The last craft show I had miraculously brought in enough money to cover the booth fee with a little bit extra. Considering the times, I am truly grateful.

Honestly, the only jewelry-related news is that I have made some Christmas tree earrings. I just wanted to show them off a little... I think they're cute!

More in my Etsy shop, of course! I have four different ones... crystal clear with a red top, crystal clear with a silver top, light green (pictured above), and emerald green. Take your pick! ;-)

As the year draws to a close, I have a few questions for you:

1. What are you grateful for?

2. Overall, was this a good year for you? Please share a couple of specifics if you don't mind.

3. Do you have any goals, or anything specific you're going to focus on in 2009? If so, what?

So, I suppose since I'm asking... I should answer. ;-)

1. I am grateful for so many things-- forgiveness and love being close to the top of the list. I am grateful for my husband, for making some significant changes in his life this year.

2. Overall this wasn't a good year at all. However, there were some very high highs... my trip to Italy, my husband's personal achievements, and holding my best friend's baby for the first time (and every time since!). Little miracles really do happen.

3. I will be working towards a better work/life balance in the new year, as well as getting re-acquainted with my spiritual side. I've drifted away from that part of me this year and it's time to do something about it. I've already made some strides towards that, which leave me feeling quite happy.