writing directions

I've been consumed with writing up directions for my "Better with Crystals Bracelet". I must admit I am a procrastinator to the fullest extent but since I'm teaching the class in a few weeks, I can't put it off any longer! I never really have trouble writing directions or sketching the figures out. HOWEVER... I'm learning to "draw" the figures out using Microsoft Word and it has proved to be quite a learning curve. I guess I'm just 'old school' but I much prefer sketching my illustrations with pencils and markers. I feel the need to be high tech and keep up with the times but I would truly rather be beading.

Homegrown Music

Below: Jimmy Reed, Pee Wee Crayton & Muddy Waters.




Left: Lloyd Tolbert playing a mean harp with Peter Giri on guitar.
I feel so lucky to have had three (tonight will be the fourth) amazing nights of live music. Eugene is home to some of the most talented musicians I've ever come across and Florence is lucky enough to have them come to us. This first weekend of the year has found many of us locals at Traveler's Cove enjoying the music of my good friend Peter Giri and his friends. Peter, who is one of my most favorite gee-tar players EVER has dubbed this weekend "Quatro Noches de Pedro". Si.
Every night has been a different combo of musicians playing with Peter. Last night was my favorite because the boys played a lot of blues- my favorite. Byron Case played guitar the first set and he seems to channel all of my guitar heroes when he plays. He's like a combo of Muddy Waters, Pee Wee Crayton and Jimmy Reed rolled into one. It doesn't get much better than that, folks.
Hmmm... I think I just may hear my guitar calling me...

My New Year's resolution is to not be so woefully neglectful of this blog! I thought I'd start the New Year off by posting some pictures of the wonderful treasures that Barry gave me for Christmas. Above is a picture of the fabulous Bob Burket beads that I found in my stocking. The center pendant is a dragonfly enlayed with turquoise and like a lot of Bob's creatures, he's got articulated wings. The bead to the left is a shibuichi goldfish "ball" which was the prototype for the mold. To the right is another first edition bead. I'm so lucky!
Next, is a crazy eyeball monster bead by Ralph McCaskey. (www.nightsidestudios.com) I think I'll name him Bob because I imagine when he moves his head the eyeballs bob all over the place.
In honor of my almost stepping on a rattlesnake in Tucson this year, Barry found this great little turquoise and sterling silver pendant.
The last picture is of some beautiful glass beads made by my friend and neighbor, the talented Denise Saunders. I had lunch with her the other day and she brought along the work she's been busily creating for the big trip to Tuscon. I was lucky enough to get a preview and I couldn't resist. Merry Xmas to me!