nancy rosetta

Julies Pastels

2012-01-16T13:55:00.001-05:00

Julie has been painting with pastels. These are just a few of her abstract landscapes hanging at the shop.

Fish Head

2011-12-27T15:18:00.000-05:00

Every now and then I see something in my scrap sheet that just cannot be ignored. Sometimes it happens because I have sawing block (like writers block) and I just stare at the metal until I see something, other times it slaps you in the face just like this fish head did.

Look to the left side, do you see something?

So, when you come down with an artistic mental block, try looking at the shadows of what you have done before, and you may see something new.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T15:46:00.001-05:00

Pendants

2011-11-17T17:20:00.001-05:00

I've been in production mode. Here's a peek of a bunch of new pendants. I'm making more critters, they are so much fun to make.

come together

2011-11-17T01:15:00.001-05:00

The 7 little pieces come together.

How cute is this little doggie? So much fun to make, and the flower on her tail spins! I really love making pendants that move in some way; jewelry that the wearer can interact with...if that makes sense.

I have 9 finished pendants in the tumbler right now. It was a good day, a productive day.

7 little pieces

2011-11-16T19:01:00.001-05:00

I've been making some strange characters the past couple of weeks. Some pretty cartoony looking animals among other things. This little guy is all ready to be riveted together. Stay tooned to see him finished. :). (tooned, heehee)

crazy rings

2011-10-10T19:16:00.001-04:00

I've been making some very impractical rings. This is fun.

driving miss Dolly

2011-09-09T18:18:00.001-04:00

high five

2011-08-29T16:42:00.001-04:00

2011-08-29T13:15:00.001-04:00

Irene didn't do much damage in my neighborhood, but we did lose power at 4pm and it did not return until the wee hours of the morning.

I'm at the gallery today. It's gorgeous out. The door and window are open and the breeze is lovely.

Have a great day!

Irene

2011-08-26T21:12:00.001-04:00

She's a coming...

Thistles

2011-08-10T01:01:00.002-04:00

Beautiful thistles around our cottage on Prince Edward Island. While we were there, the thistles began to bloom.

Gorgeous, purple prickly weed.

I learned to knit.

2011-08-09T22:20:00.002-04:00

I can knit and I can purl.

Every summer, my husband, dog and I drive 680 miles up to Prince Edward Island, Canada. My husbands family owns a cottage up there far from any city or town on a cliff of an ocean inlet. We are basically cut off from the current high speed world up there. We get two English speaking television channels and one French channel. We have a wood burning stove :)

In good weather, I search daily for seaglass and other interesting beach related gem-like goodies down on the beach when the tide is out. This year, however, the weather did not support that kind of activity. This year, I mastered the art of fire starting. This year, I taught myself how to knit.

I bought a knitting magazine that came with two free sets of needles. It didn't matter what the projects in the magazine were, I just made sure there was a section in the magazine showing how to do the stitches. Honestly, I wasn't even going to attempt anything more complicated than a scarf. So I made a scarf!

It's almost done! I may try to make a hat to match, next.

My husband wants me to knit him a sweater now...something argyle no less.

Oh Canada, keep an eye on your children.

2011-07-29T14:57:00.003-04:00

TMZ comes on at 2:05am in Canada. I know that because I am up watching it right now. It's currently 2:15am and I am having a scotch while watching TV and listening to Scott snore in the bedroom. The walls are very thin here.

I turned my phone on today just to see if I had any messages from my Visa card about charges in Canada since I recently had all that trouble...I chickened out and shut the phone off before getting my voice mails. I really don't want to get an obscene phone bill next month, and I don't have an international plan. I should have upgraded before I left, but data wasn't included, so I said forget it (I checked into it before I left). I have had my phone shut off since before we crossed the border on Saturday afternoon.

I'm feeling like TMZ is the only thing connecting me to the States up here on the island right now. As usual, everything up here is strange. Even having TMZ up here is strange. We haven't come up for the last two summers, so things have changed a little...but not too much.

I met two small children on the beach today who clearly were not warned about strangers in any way (really!?). They ran up to me and wanted me to help them find some hermit crabs and starfish. They were so small, and seemed even smaller since there wasn't another soul around. I was silently disturbed by their innocence. I wondered who their parents were, what their parents were doing, and why these kids weren't being watched. It kind of ruined my beach walk. They would not stop talking to me and asking me questions. I ended up wishing them luck in their respective hunts and turned a cliff corner to get the hell out of dodge. Later, I saw one of them riding their bike up on the dirt rode. I think she was curious to meet Rusty who was barking at her, but thankfully she kept her distance this time.

I'm hoping to get into town at some point tomorrow to actually mooch some free wireless Internet somewhere. If I do, I will post this and get my emails. If not, oh well...

I'm having fun doing crossword puzzles, playing the Sims app on my iPad, and reading 'Too fat to Fish'. We are not lacking entertainment. Plus, I'm keeping busy cooking all of our meals, and killing bugs...good times!

Today is my 5th day without a cigarette. This was my plan. I am not out of cigarettes, I just don't smoke anymore. I urge my friends and family to help me succeed. Thanks for reading.

The nightmare continues

2011-07-10T21:13:00.001-04:00

A few days ago I started getting emails telling me to check my credit score. This is probably spam and I am not going to click any links in an unsolicited email, but I've received 6 of these since Friday. In the past, I have received these emails, but never 6 in three days, and with my recent email hacking and facebook hijacking, I decided to react in panic mode.

I cancelled all my credit cards after checking for fraudulent charges, and have called in a fraud alert on my social security number to all three credit report companies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. At Equifax, I spoke to an agent who told me that a fraud specialist would call me on Monday. I am really looking forward to this phone call.

I emailed login@facebook.com after reading on someones blog to do that with all my info, and I got an automated reply with some links to their help pages. Of course when I click on these, they want me to login...impossible. Any 'help' I ask for is going to the email of the hacker. This is so frustrating, I can't even put it into words how annoyed I am.

I am hoping that Equifax will be able to help me get this fraudulent email address that's in my name destroyed. I know I probably won't be able to identify the jackass, but I'm going to do everything in my power to. He messed with the wrong person, I will not lie down.

In his last email exchange of about 6 or so with the criminal, my husband wrote, 'I hope a bus runs you over and you die with the taste of your own blood in your mouth' or something like that. My sentiments exactly.

If you read this post, please post a link to my blog anywhere you can. And change your passwords often!

More on the hacking of Nancy.

2011-07-07T01:48:00.001-04:00

I've been stewing in some bitter anger all day. I have been on the phone trying to find someone who can help me delete that false email address (that sent out the spam and thieved my identity) to no avail. 45 minutes on the phone to AT&T the host to my spammers email (mostly on hold), to find out that I have to go through yahoo.com because att.net is powered by them. I have been frustrated all day long. This is a total rant. Yahoo was no help so far.

So, the worst of my problems right now is not the fact that the hacker changed my login info so I can't even see my Facebook page or post on it (I locked it this morning so even the offender cannot access it...i think) but the fact that he/she also deleted all of my contact info in my email accounts. I have empty address books and no emails prior to this morning (and believe me there were hundreds in there, and the folders! Oh the folders!) I am violated, and so are all the friends and family who love and care about me who got that email. I'm horrified. I've been trying to find out how or if I can get all my info back, hopefully I'll be able to, but I'm not holding my breath.

The one thing the AT&T operator was able to tell me was that I have been a victim of a keystroke tracker. As she explained it to me, it is something that tracks frequently used sequences of keystrokes such as usernames, email addresses, and passwords. I am scared to log into anything right now that requires me to type in a password. I have no idea how she came to this conclusion, but I WAS on hold for a very long time, so I'm sure she researched my case thoroughly...Anyhow...

I hope to make a new FB page soon, and maybe someday in the next few months FB will let me move all the photos over to my new page once I jump through hoops to prove who I am. In my extensive research within the last 14 hours or so, I've been learning that it is almost impossible and nobody at FB cares enough to even put in any effort to help (notice how I said 'almost impossible' since I'm still trying... NEVER GIVE UP!...right?). They sure don't make it easy to find the right links to report that you are in trouble.

So, I'm sorry to everyone who worried, but I hope that you are all Internet savvy enough to know not to fall for that kind of scam. I wish I had everyones emails who this scam went out to so I could follow up with a warning, but I don't, they've been lost. Lost by someone who is such a monster spammer, who has evolved from the traditional spammer to one that really thinks things through...you know, nips it in the bud.

I apologize as well to all of the nancyrosetta fan page on facebook. The fan page is linked to my regular page and so it went the way of the ghost when I locked my account...but I had no choice. I'll be back.

As of this minute, this is the MOST I can do about the problem. :(

I've been hacked

2011-07-06T18:31:00.001-04:00

This morning, I woke up to text messages and phone calls from concerned friends and family.

Two of my email accounts as well as my facebook page have been hacked. An email went out from namaccallum@ att.net. This is NOT my email address and I am trying really hard to get it deleted and get my facebook page back. I changed my passwords for my other email addresses, but the hacker changed my login email to the one stated above, so this is going to be difficult to remedy.

If you have received an email from namaccallum@ att.net, please go ahead and write back telling the imposter to go to hell. The email is asking for money to be wired to an address in "Europe, United Kingdom", because I am apparently there and have been robbed and need money to get home.

This is a headache and a half.

A Couple of Recent Commissions

2011-06-23T23:28:00.004-04:00

Recently, I have been getting more and more commissions, so I thought I would share a couple of recent ones with you all.

This commission was for 6 charms with the phrase 'sole sister' accross the bottom and the date of the '11 Boston Marathon on the back. On the front is also NYC over BOS. The significance, is that the runners 5 friends supported her at both the NYC marathon last year, and the Boston marathon this year. She wanted something that would combine both races, but focus mainly on the Boston marathon (why we used the date). I'm not usually a metal stamper, but I did have the appropriately sized letters and numbers, so I thought I'd give it a go. I thought they came out good, and the runner thought they came out wonderfully! :) The picture has 5 of the charms facing front and one facing back. They all have that date stamped on the back. It's really sweet that she wanted something special to present to her friends for their support.

During the Dedham Open Studios in May, a woman came to my table three separate times. She kept looking at my pendants and each time she came back, we talked about them, especially the ones that look like pictures. I gave her the scoop about how I make them. How all the little pieces are cut out, how I make my wire rivets, how I piece them together...it's always fun to talk about the process. Anyhoo...a week went by and she emailed me that she wanted to buy a Happy House pendant, but a much smaller version. I told her that since I would have to make that up special anyway, we should personalize it in any way that she wanted. She decided on having 11:11 on the back with a small heart above the colon. I don't know the significance of that, but I told her I could do it. So I did it, and she loves it!

This is smaller than a quarter. I loved making it.

New Tool Review

2011-06-22T22:45:00.002-04:00

The Knew Concept Saw Frame

Last Christmas, I asked for this saw frame from Knew Concepts, and I got it from Santa (ok, Scott) I have been using it ever since, and I thought I would write a review about it.

Firstly, here is a picture of the saw frames I have been using for years. Very generic, 5" throat and 3" throat.

I wanted to try the Knew Concept saw frame mostly because I do break a lot of blades and the company claims that by using their frames, you will break less blades. This claim is spot on.

This saw frame, at first, was a bit intimidating. It looks like something from outer space. I got a 5" frame which is much larger than the 5" frame I am used to using. The way I saw and pierce is very fluid, so it was inevitable that I would bump into bench related things as I was first getting used to using it, because it's so much bigger (if you can imagine a saw pumping up and down and turning constantly). I almost gave up and went back to my tried and true, but I persevered.

The Knew Concept saw frame is made of lightweight aluminum which resists bending and warping and is only a few ounces.The weight (or lack of) also took some getting used to. The way it first felt in my hand almost defied gravity. I was afraid I would break it! But much to the contrary, I have not yet broken a blade while using it, and I have been using it since January. It feels good to throw a saw blade away because it's dull (not because it broke) I also have less arm strain after a long sawing/piercing session...bonus!

Another reason this frame took so long to get used to using is the tension setting spring. Tension of the saw blade is of utmost importance if you don't want to constantly break blades. Traditional saw frames take brutal human force to achieve the ping of a high E guitar string. My new frame has a knob to tighten the tension (missing out on some exercise there). There is a trial and error period to figure out the right combination of tightening the knob and lowering the 'top of the blade' holder, which bizarrely are the same motion. But I've figured it out, so I'm happy.

The key to smooth sawing and piercing is letting the saw do the work while you guide it along. This saw frame is perfect if you can 'let go' like that. After an initial 'break in' period (mine was about 2 months) this could end up being your favorite saw frame. It is my favorite saw frame now. I really love it, and I also love the fact that it saves me hoards of broken saw blades.

If you are a jewelry maker and have a need for a new jewelers saw, I would recommend getting this one. It is more expensive than traditional saw frames, but you will save money in the long run (on blades). After getting used to it, you will love it!

Rapture?

2011-05-20T23:06:00.002-04:00

I'll keep this brief.

Unless you've been living under a rock, you are well aware of what's supposed to happen tomorrow at 6pm: Jesus will take his children up to heaven and leave the rest of us to roam the earth in misery for the next five months. The Rapture. The end of days. The beginning of the end. (yes, you can quote me)

I guess after the five month purgatory period, we can expect the earth to implode or explode, or whatever happens during the end of time. Personally, I can't wait to witness this. I want to see the 'saved' drift effortlessly up to heaven, or disappear, or explode or whatever happens when they are rapturing. I barely know what to expect. I'm looking forward to the ultimate 'learn as you go' experience.

I'm spending the first few minutes of Armeggedon driving to meet some friends for dinner...6:30 reservations. :)

Location:Everywhere at 6pm tomorrow

Just Desserts Group Show

2011-05-04T15:32:00.003-04:00

JUST DESSERTS
a Sweet Show
this Friday, May 6th 6-8pm

In an open-call to local artists, Gallery9 requested artists to consider the phrase "Just Desserts".

Cupcake by Ann Gorbett

All work displayed is for sale with 20% donated to the Norwood Food Pantry. An opportunity to add or begin your art collection and support local artists.
Wine, sweets, friends and
affordable artwork.

Sundae by Frank Quinn

Invest in your soul. BUY ART.

Scotts reaction

2011-05-02T23:14:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of Suzanne

Scott's Birthday gift.

2011-05-02T22:00:00.007-04:00

I would like to share a very special gift I commissioned for my husband's birthday. I found this artist through a post on Regretsy in which April Winchill commissions a portrait with a flip flop on her head, wearing a magic marker moustache. That was back in February. Then in early April, I read this post where others sent in their photos for portraits.

Well, I am only human. I HAD to have one! And what better reason to order one than for my husband Scott's birthday? So, this is the photo I sent to Sharie of ShariesCraftworld

Yes, I know...this could have gone horribly wrong, but I'm an adventurous gal. I've been with my husband for half of my life, so he obviously knows me and my humor. I received the finished portrait with plenty of time to oogle it before giving it to him on May 1st at his birthday dinner party.

I have to include an angle shot here, so you can see how 3D it is!

Now, like I said earlier, this could have gone horribly wrong. He could have had silent distaste, could have screamed in disgust and thrown it accross the table...but, Scott is my husband...I could not have asked for a better reaction.

click here to see the video of the unveiling.

I have to say that Sharie was a pleasure to work with, and that this portrait is one of Scotts favorite presents ever! Thanks so much again for this awesome portrait, Sharie!

2011-04-15T23:21:00.001-04:00

My sister sent me this picture, and I think it says volumes.

By the way, I love to cook. I just think this is funny.

I've upgraded my phone to a smartypants phone.

2011-03-29T23:58:00.001-04:00

I've had a blackberry for the last two years, and anyone who knows me well, has heard me say 'I want an iPhone, I don't care...I want an iPhone' too many times to count.

Well, guess what I got on Sunday? No, not an iPhone, an HTC evo. I'm loving this phone!

It's a lot bigger than I would have liked to get, but I'm getting used to that. The battery does not last as long as I'm used to, but when I first got my blackberry, that battery was awful...it got better over time. I hope this one follows suit.

Plus, the pictures are 1000% better!

I'm testing out this Android app for Blogger. This is the maiden post. :)

Rusty update

2011-03-15T08:00:00.003-04:00

Rusty tested positive for Lyme disease. This may be old news to some (he was diagnosed over 3 weeks ago). We are 5 days away from completing 30 days of doxycycline, 3 pills a day. It's been pretty easy to give him the pills. It's become a ritual of sorts. He wants cheese. I'll feel bad for him when his pills are gone.

8 days ago, Rusty lost his backyard freedom. It was my birthday, and some vicious howling winds were celebrating a little too hard and blew a whole 4 panel corner section of our 6 foot fence down. Now my landscape looks like it's missing a couple of teeth, and Rusty has no place to run.

Oddly, this situation is not as bad as it appears...apparently we are winning (get the reference?). I have been forced to walk Rusty several times a day. This 'forced' walk is actually quite pleasant and the more we walk the easier it gets. The more we walk the less he sits at my feet and barks at me. The more we walk the more he 'gets it' when we are training. The most recent training accomplishment is Rusty getting his kong and placing it in my open palm without me grabbing for it. I say 'get it' for him to get his kong, and 'give it' for him to give it to me in my hand. If he drops it to the floor, I just say 'get it' and 'give it' again until he gets it right. He's been getting it right frequently. Good boy. And...the more we walk, the more exercise I get. Bonus!

Crappy cell phone pic of Rusty at Bird Park.

Our fence is going to be fixed, hopefully tomorrow. And Rusty will have free range of the back yard once again. The walks will not cease. The walks will continue!

A couple of months after he finishes his medication, Rusty will be tested again for Lyme disease. If his number doesn't drop below 30, he may have to go on another run of antibiotics. At this time his number is 67. He has no symptoms of Lyme, let's hope it stays that way.

Blogpress

2011-03-08T16:52:00.001-05:00

I just bought this BlogPress app for my iPad. Since I no longer have my own computer, it's been a bit of a struggle to write blog posts.

Picture test! I wear this pendant a lot. I made it a couple of years ago and can not part with it.

Where does the time go?

2011-02-03T21:45:00.002-05:00

It's February.

This blog is a ghost town...I've gotta do something about that.

The weather has kept me shoveling snow for most of January. Punxsutawney Phil is predicting an early spring...let's hope he's right.

Play Date with Cristina Hurley

2010-12-18T22:16:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours with Cristina Hurley at her studio/retail space. We chatted and made jewelry.
Cristina is on the left, and I am on the right.
Cristina was soldering some rings in this pic.
I am piercing out a cherry blossom pendant.

I really have to make some time to work along side her again. It's quite a different experience when you are not all by yourself working on your craft. I had a lot of fun!

The Perfect Public Restroom?

2010-12-14T03:49:00.003-05:00

I used a public toilet last night.

I was at a restaurant and went in to wash my hands as I always do before I eat. This time, I actually had to use the facilities as well. Something about using a public restroom actually makes me hold it in longer than if I were at home. It's like my kryptonite, so you know 'I had to go!'. I hate the self flushing toilet, by the way. It always fakes me out...and then finally after I get it to flush with my crazy movements, it ends up flushing again. Total waste of water.

This made me think about what makes a great public restroom. It's not just important to be clean and free from clutter and odors, but as a great public restroom, it also has to be user friendly in a non germ transferring sort of way.

I really dislike the air hand driers, they dry my skin out something awful. I know that some are better than others when it comes to the environment and emissions and all that....but for me, good old paper towels work just fine. I personally like the motion-activated dispenser, but I'll take the tri-folded towel dispenser in a pinch. I abhor the crank dispenser. The crank ones with the lever is okay if I can use my covered elbow to advance the sheet, but the gear looking crank style that you can only get to advance with your fingers really bugs me. I would rather drip dry or wipe my hands on my clothes. Maybe I am giving too much information here, but if I can save a germ or two from becoming viral in your system then it's all worth it.

The most important, brilliant, and germ saving invention in bathroom design to me? A trash can next to the door. Don't laugh. This has become how I judge a great public restroom. If a restroom has paper towels and a trashcan next to the door, or an easy distance away... It gets my approval. It doesn't matter how clean the bathroom is in the long run, it's how clean you are when you leave it. If you don't have to touch anything with your bare hands while you are in the bathroom, and the things you do touch have a paper towel buffer that you can easily throw away, it's a win/win!

Trash cans next to the restroom door! Let's start a revolution!

A couple of Gems on the Cape

2010-11-13T09:34:00.000-05:00

This past summer, my husband and I spent two weeks on Cape Cod. Even though it's close-by, we don't get down there much, and we've never really explored the few times we've been there. So this trip, we saw all we could. Here are a couple of highlights of our trip.

Parnassus Book Service in Yarmouth is a sight to see. It's a little unorganized...the books are mainly grouped together by subject, but even that is iffy. We wandered around for over an hour.

Scott was in heaven.

We found this wonderful oasis of pottery and art in Dennis at Scargo Lake, Scargo Pottery. The grounds are full of sculpture and carvings and all types of eye candy.

I love this driftwood furniture set!

Two places that you must visit on your next trip down to Cape Cod!

Pop-Up Art Loop

2010-11-09T21:41:00.004-05:00

Last month, Scott and I visited the awesome city of Chicago.

Like most cities these days, they have a plethora of empty storefronts in the downtown area. It's sad, but just like Boston, they are appealing to artists to pretty things up.

The Pop-Up Art Loop transforms empty storefronts throughout the Chicago Loop area.

Not only are there pop-up art galleries with regular business hours like the one pictured above, but there are installations viewed by the public through the glass windows like the pictures below.

And of course, they force little cute kids to stand in windows and smile at the public as any great city does.

About this picture: These kids had the most pouty sourpusses on their faces until I took my camera out...I think they were in a time-out.

I am in love with Chicago, I encourage you to visit if you can. Don't even get me started on the architecture...that will be a different blog post!

Working on a new bracelet

2010-09-28T22:50:00.002-04:00

Sterling silver and copper.

My first jewelry video

2010-09-10T20:40:00.000-04:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Jewelry Reception Tomorrow Night

2010-08-30T18:40:00.004-04:00

The first friday in September at Custom Art Framing and Gallery 9 will feature 4 jewelry artists, 4 different styles.

I am pleased to be participating along with fellow Boston Handmade member Cristina Hurley

Above is Cristina's beautiful Spiral Pyramid necklace.

And here is my Prince Edward inispired riveted pendant.

The two other jewerly artists participating are Tammy DeWolfe and Jane Bailey. Both of whom I could find no web presence, so their designs will be a surprise! :)

Come hang out and have some wine and light refreshments with us on Friday, Sept. 3rd from 6-8pm.

BH Somerville Marketplace

2010-07-10T00:00:00.004-04:00

The Boston Handmade Somerville Marketplace is rescheduled for Sunday, July 11th, 3 - 7pm due to unfavorable weather on Saturday.

Exhibitors represented in above photos:
left, Lush Beads, Member of Boston Handmade
middle, SepiaLepus, Invited Exhibitor
right, Pink Sequin Designs, Member of Boston Handmade

I hope everyone who was planning on coming out on Saturday will be able to come on Sunday!

Capturing the Process

2010-06-24T09:21:00.002-04:00

I love taking 'close-up' pictures of what I am working on, and the steps to get from start to finish. It's fun to see the process this way. I am also trying to improve my photography, so there will probably be a lot more of this nonsense.

In this photo, I am cleaning out a drilled hole with a fine needle file.

I love the challenge of capturing a great image. This image is not so great...
I'm cutting some small jumprings in this photo. Don't be confused by the chain hanging off the sides, those are safe from the saw. I am cutting a small coil off the larger coil falling to the left.

Making an aloha bracelet.

I love to share the process, thanks for looking.

Scrap play

2010-06-22T09:36:00.001-04:00

I like to use odd spaces in my sterling silver sheet that would otherwise end up as scrap.

What would you call these little goodies? I'm thinking 'Happy Raindrops'.

These will most likely end up to be post earrings...an awkward pair. Love it!

Skull vs. Army of Circles

2010-06-21T09:02:00.002-04:00

Who do you think will win this faceoff?

I'd put my money on the skull.

Looking Forward

2010-06-19T22:13:00.008-04:00

The bridal party jewelry is finished. Whew. One piece was especially a challenge for me, but all is good in the world now. I think the pieces came out fantastic, and I know the bride will love it all. Feels good to finish.

So, I am now in furious production mode for the Boston Handmade Somerville Marketplace. I hope to have a bunch of these ideas in my head transfered to sterling silver in time to showcase them there. For some odd reason, I feel like I never have enough inventory. I pretty much know the demographic for this show since this will be my third year. I hope to accomplish lots in the next 3 weeks! stay tuned...

I am also looking forward to sharing my tent with Foxontherun photography. I love the vintage style printing of her photographs. It will be interesting sharing my tent with a complete stranger, but I do look forward to it.

I'll leave you now looking at this sweet cuff!

Chinatown

2010-05-30T18:16:00.011-04:00

Pictures of Chinatown inside and out.

Boston Handmade in my workspace

2010-05-28T21:29:00.006-04:00

As I sit at my workbench cranking out Aloha flowers for bridesmaid jewelry, I am surrounded by Boston Handmade.

This little monkey was a grab gift from Crystal at the annual BH meeting in January. He has been hanging right in front of me ever since.

This tiny oil painting is by former BH member Kim Weineck. I love it so much, it reminds me of Prince Edward Island.

And possibly the most used item on my workbench (it doesn't always have a beer on it) is this coaster from Lucie Wicker. Another BH swap gift from a previous year. I have the twin at my desk at the day job. Love, love, love.

And, if you haven't seen enough mess....here is my happy hole where I can sit and saw, saw, saw...

New FB fan page!

2010-05-21T01:39:00.005-04:00

I just started a fan page on Facebook for nancyrosetta. So far it only has some pictures of finished jewelry and jewelry in progress photos.

Please 'like' my page.

Thank you! :)

Handmade Goodies

2010-05-01T15:45:00.007-04:00

These are the items I bought at the Sheepshearing festival last Saturday.

A really cool apron from Fussy Gussy. I love the cowgirl with the guitar!

A coptic hand bound journal from fellow Boston Handmade member White Sparrow Bindery

And a total impulse buy from Chikako Mukai. A gift for my step Mother, Chikako. Just because.

Above is the back, which is what caught my eye.
Below is the front detail.

I think she'll love it!

Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham

2010-04-27T08:24:00.001-04:00

Last Saturday, I went to the Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham at Gore Place Scott went with me, and we met up with Kerry and Jaye and a couple of other friends.

These are some pictures I took.

We had a great time. I bought some stuff. Pictures of stuff I bought will follow. I love craft fairs, especially when I'm not working them!

Tree with Moon and Stars

2010-04-24T08:32:00.000-04:00

Last week I brought some unfinished pieces to the Gallery to show Julie. I basically just wanted to see what she thought of the direction I was going and if I should stay on that path...or not. I showed her 7 or 8 pendants/brooches, only 2 of which were almost finished. The rest didn't even have anyplace from where to hang or dangle yet. As we were looking, inspecting and marveling (to my amusement)a customer came in to place an order. She was an artist. She brought in a painting of her daughters dance teacher that she drew to be framed. It was really nice, a ballerina posed in mid dance on one leg. As Julie was finishing up the paperwork for the order, she encouraged me to show the client my new designs.

She bought this piece even before it was finished. It's finished now.

Copper riveted to sterling silver with many, many different sized sterling silver rivets and a few copper rivets (that you can't see).

More Riveting.

2010-04-23T18:40:00.010-04:00

I've been addicted to riveting. I think that's quite apparent. I decided to take some process shots on my last rivety session. I hope you enjoy.

Finished pendants or brooches...I haven't decided yet. The first one is tube riveted, my first attempt. My friend and fellow jewelry designer Vicki Cook inspired me to try tube riveting after I got a glimpse of her Astrid Necklace. I think my attempt came out great. The last photo is flat riveted. Both are copper on sterling silver.

Altered art books

2010-03-29T08:32:00.001-04:00

This post was written for and originally published on the Boston Handmade blog in February, but I want it here, too. :)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I am cleaning out my studio (major undertaking) I came across this altered book I made years ago.

And here are some pages I have done in other peoples books from all across the country and Canada.

These are really fun to make, and a fantastic creative outlet.

Earth Hour Saturday Night!

2010-03-26T10:00:00.001-04:00

Saturday night is Earth Hour from 8:30pm - 9:30pm. Earth hour was designed to promote Climate Awareness. I participated last year, and although I was alone in my dark house, I felt like I made a difference. This year will be no different, unless of course I go out, then I will hopefully be somewhere where the lights will go out as well (cause that's always fun).

If I stay home tomorrow night, my home will be dark from 8:30 - 9:30pm. I will light candles, catch up on some sketches, or finally start reading that book I have on the sidelines.
I hope you all join me.

The Parklane Post

2010-03-25T19:57:00.002-04:00

Check out my interview with Lisa from the Parklane Post. Thanks Lisa!

Total Rant. Sorry.

2010-03-20T04:13:00.004-04:00

So...
I have not been so chatty lately. I am ashamed, since I really want my blog to stay current which it totally has not been. It's been a really tough year for me. In fact, before a week ago, I was only making stuff when it was requested of me. I have been totally non-creative...only fulfilling special requests, which never ceased (thanks to my loyal customers!). A little over a week ago, I got into my studio once again and have produced two very new, very rivety pendants which I had an incredibly joyous time producing. I believe I am back in the saddle so to speak. Yay!

My mother, as most of you know, had a very massive stroke last May, and is my child now. I am responsible for her, and that has put a huge ugly damper in my creative life. I feel like my imagination and drive was just pulled out from under me when I was appointed her Health Care Proxy and her Durable Power of Attorney, and my job as both has been very 'hands-on' and frequent. I would not wish this on anyone...I'm just being truthful here.

Mom is not getting better, and it's become harder and harder to deal with it on my end...the sane end. In fact, she is getting progressively worse. She doesn't try. She is stagnant. She is happy in her stagnancy. But she remains bright in other ways. She loves to eat and she loves to gossip. She is only interested in everyone else's business, not her own, which is very difficult to understand if you are an outsider. I do not even have a good click with the social worker at the nursing home because I can't explain my mothers behavior in social worker terms. She is an enigma. She has always had social issues. She has always been more interested in knowing everybody else's business than dealing with her own. This practice is more apparent to me now than ever before. She is paralyzed on her entire right side, but the paralyzation is not what keeps her back. It is the fact that she does not pay attention at all to that side of her body, but she knows everything about everyone in the nursing home. It is frustrating. What makes a person remember something frivolous and not something important? Why does one woman know every little detail about her surroundings, but does not remember the right side of her OWN body?

Scott and I took her and her friend Marion out to the deck today to soak in some sun. It was pleasant. I have learned how to have a nice visit. I do not expect anything from her anymore. I consider her my child now. She is a brilliant toddler.

I am so happy to be back at the bench and making stuff. I just got another order today. I apologize once again for my absence, and I hope to never leave you for this long again. It's so hard to write when there is nothing positive to write about.

Sorry for the rant.

Tinker, Tinker, Tinker...

2010-03-17T17:43:00.008-04:00

Some New Work

I am realizing that I really like to tinker. I made all these little bits and pieces and had such a great time riveting it all together.

Do you see the two little tiny pieces of silver next to the tree trunk? Those are 22ga! I may have ruined my eyesight trying to hammer just the rivet without marring the silver of the trunk, but I got it done! How cute is this tree pendant?

And a happy little house.

I'll definitely be making more layered pictures with metal, they are really fun to make!

My visit to the Western Avenue Studios

2010-02-09T00:27:00.011-05:00

Recently, I visited the Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, MA with my friend Suzanne. What a magical place it is. I had been wanting to visit the studios for quite some time, but I never imagined it was so enormous and filled with so many talented artists and artisans. In two hours, I barely got to check out the entire 3rd floor.

My first studio visit right out of the elevator on the 3rd floor was fellow BH'er Liz Stewart's Lush Beads. A magnificently stocked studio with all the supplies and tools anyone would need for beading and gorgeous finished pieces you can buy on the spot. Having such a bountiful supply shop at her fingertips, Liz makes stunning art jewelry like the bezeled face pendant necklace pictured below.

I was thrilled to see that Liz Smith of Made in Lowell was right across the hall, so that was my next stop. My friend bought one of these coffee cozys from Liz. These are so fun, colorful, and good for your carbon footprint, and they keep your hot coffee from burning your hands. I bought a felted nest ring.

Roaming the halls, we entered almost every studio that was open on this very busy Saturday. I love this tripdych of poppies outside of the Art by Verde studio.

After a long two hours of browsing and talking with the artists, we moseyed our way down to the second floor where we heard there was a cafe. Outside of the cafe, I found Walk on the Moon. Really fun jewelry, and a wonderfully inspiring woman. Regina was a treat to meet, plus, I've bought some stuff from her in the past from her destash shop on etsy, Run on the Sun. And she's bought from me, too.

There are more visits in my future to the Western Avenue Studios. There is no way anyone can absorb all that is to see in one day. I look forward to my return. It's such an inspiring place.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-24T23:58:00.002-05:00

Ornament by Vintage By Crystal.

Bazaar Bizarre Tomorrow!

2009-12-05T17:01:00.004-05:00

Come shop for the holidays from local artisans at the Bazaar Bizarre tomorrow Dec. 6th from 12 - 7pm, at the BCA Cyclorama. Admission is only $1!! I'll be there along with other Boston Handmade members. I hope to see you there!

Holiday Sale at Gallery 9

2009-12-04T00:10:00.001-05:00

Big Huge Fantastic Holiday sale going on tonight at Gallery 9 from 6pm - 10pm. FRIDAY NIGHT!

The shop is looking fabulous, full of wonderful gifts. In a few hours it will be full of people shopping and drinking wine and eating cheese.

Amy's Boston Handmade video

2009-11-24T13:36:00.002-05:00

made by Amy of Bumblebelly designs

BH Downtown Crossing Gallery

2009-11-18T00:52:00.003-05:00

I've been gearing up for the Boston Handmade Downtown Gallery! Making lots of stuff!

Here is a peek at what I've been up to.

And a sneak peek of 16 very dirty unfinished pendants ready to go in the tumbler to clean up, shine up and harden.

Bails and chains or cords will finish these off, but you won't see those unless you come on down to the downtown gallery!

Along with these pendants, I'll be offering bracelets, earrings, rings and other necklaces/pendants all made from sterling silver and made by hand. Boy, my hands are sore.

We open up on Black Friday, November 27th. Please come by if you are in the area!
505 Washington Street, Downtown Crossing, Boston...right between West and Temple Place.

Watercolor Cowboy

2009-10-30T00:10:00.001-04:00

Custom Art Framing and Gallery 9 is hosting a gallery opening for Don Weller on Friday night October 30th from 6 - 8pm (Tonight!).

I have a copy of this magazine from 1975 framed in my kitchen. Blast from the '70s!

Don is a celebrated illustrator, art director, graphic designer and cowboy. He spent years as an art teacher for Colleges and Universities in California, Arizona, Utah, Texas, and Washington State. Over the years, he has done covers for TV Guide, Time Magazine, posters for the Hollywood Bowl, the 1984 LA Olympics, and the NFL to name a few.

Currently he raises Cutting Horses in his ranch high up in the mountains in Oakley, Utah, while continuing to produce amazing artwork. His style has changed over the years, but there is always something familiar in his artwork that tells you it is his.

Don recently published his newest book of western inspired watercolors titled Watercolor Cowboys .

I am very close to this artist, he is my father.

If you are around the Norwood area on Friday, October 30th, please stop by and have a glass of wine with us.

Boston Handmade Group Show

2009-10-16T16:10:00.002-04:00

Come on down to the SoWa open market this Sunday, October 18th from 10am-4pm.

It's a Boston Handmade show! The best kind!
I hope to see you there!

Norwood Day.

2009-09-21T22:44:00.008-04:00

Saturday was Norwood Day. A huge celebration in the center of town.

I think I learned a lesson here...make sure my white balance is set to the current lighting. These pictures are horrible. The lighting is totally off.

When I finally realized that this was my problem, I took a few good pictures.

Mom had a great time, you can see her in the last picture chatting with Kathy. More pictures of Mom at Norwood day can be found on 1redbead.

My new friend Elizabeth

2009-09-18T22:04:00.005-04:00

Meet my new friend Elizabeth. Tiny baby, sweet smelling, long toed, kung fu gripped Elizabeth.
I had the pleasure of hanging out with her for a bit today. She slept mostly. I even picked her up and she still slept. I think she was even sleeping while she was squeezing my index finger.
What perfect little fingers!
Modeling a very nice binki and a nancyrosetta necklace that her mom Kim draped around her head.

What a perfect little angel!

Update for a neglected blog

2009-09-15T00:44:00.003-04:00

A lot has been going on in nancyrosettaville.

Hubby had knee surgery but is recovering nicely. Arthroscopic to be exact. We even have a DVD of the inside of the knee parts of the surgery, and the surgeon actually narrates the footage as he is talking to Scott. It's pretty cool. Scott is doing very well. He only used crutches for a few hours, then on to a cane for a day. Really an amazing recovery.

Mom continues to be a part time job for me. I visit her as much as I can, and have recently been having more pleasant visits, she is doing better in some aspects and worse in others. I have been dealing with her personal/financial issues as well, they had started to take a toll on me, but I think things are beginning to settle, at least I hope that is the case.

Rusty has started to bark at me when I sit on the couch. It's only been about a week of this new nonsense. I am not usually afraid of him when he does this, but the last couple of days, his breath with the barks have left my hair standing on end. The shock collar* seems to stop this behavior, we don't even have to use the electric part of it, just putting it on him does the trick. (*we only use the sound part...not the shock part)

There's the quick update.

Market tomorrow!

2009-08-29T19:48:00.002-04:00

The last SoWa of August.

I'll be there with Kathy of Wellerwishes again. We make a great team!
Come check us out!

Mimi's Handmade Portrait

2009-08-27T20:08:00.006-04:00

Mimi Kirchner, doll maker extraordinaire. This video is a must watch!

I am honored to know Mimi. She is a wonderful person, an incredible artist and she is in my artist group Boston Handmade.

Visit Mimi's blog Doll
and her Etsy store mck254

Some New Work

2009-08-13T19:08:00.008-04:00

I love to crochet. I have been crocheting with sterling silver for years. Usually single strand necklaces with gemstones or pearls, sometimes 3 or more strands, but strands nonetheless. In an attempt to use up some the ends of the spools of light gauge silver wire, I started making little abstract shapes. Here is what I did with them.
Amethyst and Pink Chalcedony

Carnelian and Ruby

Tourmaline

Garnet

And my personal fave...Labradorite

These debuted at SoWa Sunday August 9th, and they turned out to be a big hit!

SOWA Sunday!

2009-08-01T19:14:00.004-04:00

Come check out the wonderful handmade goods, farmer's market and antiques market at the South End Open Market tomorrow!!
I'll be there!

Tomorrow I will be sharing my space with my sister Kathy of Wellerwishes. We are going to have a blast! Come on down if you can!

Go Cook Something

2009-07-30T01:37:00.004-04:00

I recently started a food blog. www.gocooksomething.blogspot.com

It's something that I've been thinking of doing for quite some time, in fact I had purchased the domain name gocooksomething.com a couple of years ago, and it has been pointing to my webpage ever since. When I figure out how to redirect it to point to the food blog, I will. But for now, I just wanted to let everyone know that it is up and running and I am having a blast writing it.

It's not so pretty yet, I need a banner and possibly a new design for the content, but I am loving it!

Check it out if you have a minute!

Boston Handmade Represents at SoWa

2009-07-19T22:11:00.008-04:00

On July 12, just one day after the Boston Handmade Somerville Marketplace, I was at the South End Open Market.

I had done this show twice before, both times with BH. The first was the October show last year, and the second was this June.

July 12th was different. I was alone. Even though I was alone, there was enough BH at the show to make me feel at home. I had Marla of SeaGlass Things across the aisle and two booths down from me, very comforting to have her in my sights at all times.

I had Chroma Lab almost directly across from me in the next row over. Tony from Chroma Lab manning the booth.

Alicia from Chroma Lab was helping her neighbor Fussy Gussy, when I got the opportunity to take some pics. I love this booth!

Betsy of Stonehouse Studio was there, too. I had to look for her as she was not so close to my booth, but there she was!

I thoroughly enjoyed the day, especially later on when my hubby and friends arrived so that I could walk around and check out the other vendors (and take the pictures).
My friend Suzanne took this one of me in my booth.

I have 4 more SoWa dates this summer before the next Boston Handmade show on October 18th. I am really looking forward to them all.

Rusty fetches

2009-07-15T21:12:00.007-04:00

Scott and Rusty playing Rusty's version of 'fetch'.

Jumping through the hoola hoop. He really likes the hoola hoop.

He's a cool dog when he is not biting people. So cute, too!

The best fortunes ever!

2009-07-14T22:23:00.005-04:00

Scott got take out chinese food the other night. He got two of the best fortunes I have ever seen. He is so proud of these fortunes, I don't think he will ever throw them away.

Click the picture to embiggem, if you can't read them small.

Fireworks and Fire

2009-07-13T23:34:00.008-04:00

The only fourth of July fireworks we saw were from the dock at Nick and Julie's.
It was so beautiful and simple.

A little bit of July 5th early morning.

It seems as though someone (JulieS?) threw a glass into the bushes.

Good times were had by all.

SOWA Sunday

2009-07-11T08:15:00.000-04:00

Come visit me this Sunday at the South End Open Market.
July 12th from 10am - 4pm. Free admission and free parking!

Shop the handmade market and the antiques market. While you are there, pick up some fresh produce from local farmers and freshly baked bread from local bakers...mmmmm... fresh baked bread!

Two other Boston Handmade members will be at the market this Sunday as well. Betsy from Stonehouse Studio, and Marla from SeaGlass Things. Check us out and show your support for local artists!

It's a great way to spend a Sunday!

BH Somerville Marketplace

2009-07-09T00:09:00.006-04:00

Boston Handmade Somerville Marketplace. Saturday, July 11, Union Square, Somerville. 3pm - 7pm.

Come to Union Square on July 11th to support YOUR local artists

Our July 2009 outdoor fair will feature work by Massachusetts area artists, craftspeople and artisans associated with the arts group Boston Handmade and Etsy.com: helping people make a living making things.

Boston Handmade promotes local independent businesses and individuals creating one-of-a-kind and limited edition handmade works in small studio environments, not factories.

More than 25 artists, artisans, and craftspeople will be showing and selling handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, housewares, art, photography, toys, and sculpture along with hands-on craft demonstrations from The Common Cod Fiber Guild and The Eliot School of Fine and Applied Arts

I'll be there, so come find me!

I'll be sharing a tent with my sister Kathy of wellerwishes.etsy.com we are both very excited to share space. This will be our first of many shows together I am sure! Come visit us on Saturday afternoon.

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T08:28:00.003-04:00

Independence day. That's what it's all about.

'Independence' has renewed meaning to me these days. It's a HUGE word that says a lot.

Freedom, Liberty, and Happiness.

That said, Scott and I bought some goodies tonight to fulfill our desire for some pineapple vodka. As soon as we get this started, it should only take a couple of weeks to be good to enjoy.

Happy 4th!!!

Starshine...when you gonna find me...

2009-07-03T08:11:00.001-04:00

January First

2009-07-02T08:14:00.000-04:00

I have become engulfed with this blog about Jani, a six year old girl, January First. Jani has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, after years of doctors, tests and prodding. Her parents are having a most difficult time with her healthcare since there is no place they have found yet that will take a child under 16 with her disorder. Jani is 6, and has a baby brother that Michael and Susan have to look out for, and Jani has extreme violent episodes.

This article published by the LA Times is basically a 5 page crib note into the life of Jani, Michael and Susan. It had me in tears at times, as did the blog.

If you have a moment, please read what you can. I hope that the more of us who are mentally healthy who learn about mental illness, the more research will be done for the mentally ill, if that makes sense.

Thanks for your attention.

JP First Thursday Artisan Fair

2009-07-01T21:28:00.006-04:00

Boston Handmade at the JP Artisan Fair. Thursday, July 2nd 5pm-8pm. That's tomorrow, folks!

Exhibitors at this show include:

Kerry Hawkins Photography, fine art photography
Jen Paulousky, Blue Alvarez Designs, designer knitwear
Beth Brennick of Elizabeth Brennick Designs, clothing and accessories
Lucie Wicker Photography, fine art photography
ChromaLab, painted furniture and clocks
and me, Nancyrosetta, unique jewelry

Jamaica Plain First Thursdays
Curtis Hall, 20 South Street, Jamaica Plain, 02130

Rain or shine. rain=indoors shine=outdoors.

Hope to see you there!!

More masks and other oddities

2009-06-23T08:32:00.001-04:00

from Dad's house...

Dad's collections

2009-06-22T08:56:00.003-04:00

My father is not only an artist, but a collector of art and other fun things. It's always so much fun to visit his house in Utah. Here are a few photos I took while visiting with him last month.
He is an avid mask collector.

Tin motorcycles.

Spurs.

Skulls.

And tin cans.

Short, sweet overview of BH at SEOM

2009-06-16T00:18:00.005-04:00

Sunday was wonderful. Even though it rained cats and dogs in the morning, and sprinkled in the afternoon, I am so happy that I didn't cancel. I thought of it.

I was positioned between a stranger selling flowering cacti bouquets and Linda Branch Dunn. Check out Linda's etsy store and blog. Linda was a pleasure to keep company with. I am so happy to have had this time with her, and I hope that we can be neighbors at a show again sometime.

Perhaps my recent lack of interaction with people who do not work in a hospital setting, or who are not patients may add to my conclusion that Linda is awesome, but Linda is awesome! At one point after the rain stopped and we opened up the wall that separated us from the torrential drips, I noticed that there was a fabric collage facing in my direction. The placement of this artwork was such that the general public walking by could not see it...at all. It was facing me, at the back of my booth.

This quote by Emily Dickinson really spoke to me. Sounds corny, but in my situation, it was undeniably appropriate.

Later in the day, I looked over and saw this fabric collage along side the first one.
I only got the closeup of this one sadly, it's equally as beautiful as the first in it's entirety.

When we started breaking down for the day, Linda asked me if I would be up for a trade. I was. I opted for a handbag that I had been eyeing all day. She wanted some earrings for gifts. Even though I love the bag I traded for, I wish I had traded for the collage with the Emily Dickinson quote on it so I could hang it in Dolly's room.

SOWA Sunday

2009-06-13T00:34:00.004-04:00

Another Boston Handmade group show!
June 14th, 10am - 4pm. Free parking!
Come out on Sunday for some great shopping, I'll be there.

You can also visit The South End Open Market website for more information.

I hope to see you there!

Progress...?

2009-06-10T01:02:00.005-04:00

I find myself getting angry with mom the last few days. She has been showing signs of surrender, which will seriously seal her fate if she doesn't watch out. I worry about her level of commitment to heal. I worry about her ability to do so.

Specifically, the lack of movement on her strong side (left side) is particularly shocking to me. Even a week ago, she had been squirming to get comfortable. Now, she sits scrunched down with her feet awkwardly positioned until she can get some 'boosting' help (which she won't even ask for unually). I fear that she is becoming comfortable with the success of her first hurdle (the swallowing/eating) and that she thinks that this is enough for now. It's totally not enough! She also will try to get you to feed her with the spoon, or put the cup to her mouth to drink, or change the channel on the tv, even though she can do these actions herself (and has multiple times). She seems to be settling into the comfort zone of a 2 year old.

It's not enough.

Her care coordinator called me yesterday to make an appointment about what her care will be after leaving Spaulding. We had that appointment in Dolly's room today, with Dolly present. I'm not sure that she fully understood the conversation. I was shocked that this conversation would take place so soon after her arrival, but it was based on her progress, and these prognosis will be a biweekly discussion until the end of June at best. We will have to decide on a sub-acute rehab to which she will be transferred after her discharge from Spaulding. This can be postponed, if she makes some good progress. I hate to have to make this decision since I am not ready for her to leave Spaulding, but this is the way of recovery...you either make progress and they keep you going, or you don't and they put you in a nursing home. The latter is not what mom wants, we have talked about it.

I need her to make some more progress.

Changes

2009-06-07T19:05:00.003-04:00

It's really amazing how your life can change in a split second, for better or worse.

Since my mother's stroke, I have been beside her taking care of her moral, her needs and rooting her on to recovery. Each day brings new challenges and sometimes we take steps backward in the hopes of moving forward. It's been physically and emotionally draining.

I have finally realized that my own needs have not been being met. Scott and my cell phones got shut off last week... thankfully since mine is attached to my hand these days, I caught it right away and they were working again in less than 10 minutes, but seriously, things like this are not acceptable at all. I haven't been to a supermarket since before I left for vacation on May 14th. I am out of moisturizing lotion (among at least a dozen other creature comforts) and there is no food in this house. Things around here need to change.

I am going back to work tomorrow morning. I need to resume my schedule back to where it was before the stroke. I hate to leave my mother for such lengths of time during the day, but she is in one of the best rehab hospitals in the country and I just have to keep reminding myself of that.

One Red Bead

2009-05-30T01:52:00.003-04:00

On May 17th, 2009 my mother had a massive stroke.

I was in Las Vegas when I heard the news late morning of the 18th, having just arrived in LV about 12 hours before I got the call. Needless to say, our vacation was cut very short. Scott and I took the redeye that night back to Boston. We arrived the next morning, retrieved our car and went straight to Brigham and Women's Hospital where Mom was in the neurological ICU. Later that day, Anna arrived from SLC. Julie and Kathy had been with her since she was found on the floor in her condo (approximately 18 hours after her stroke). The window of stroke reversal opportunity was well closed by this time.

She spent 7 days in that same ICU until she was moved into a shared room on a different floor. She spent 4 days in that room. Today, she was moved to Spaulding Rehab Hospital. She is our little miracle. We hope she is Spauldings miracle after they are through with her.

She is lucid beyond reason, aware of her surroundings, and very talkative.
My sisters and I are contributing to a blog chronicling everything she and we go through in her recovery. Please visit One Red Bead the blog about Mom's recovery.

Wedding Rings

2009-05-12T08:38:00.012-04:00

Anne Marie and Rob are going to be married on May 23rd. They commissioned me to make their wedding bands (an honor that I will not soon forget) and I decided to take some pictures of the process.

I started out with half round wire for the rings, 6ga for Robs, and 10ga for Anne Marie's. I cut a length that gives me a little play room in case I mess up with the stamping...which did happen on Anne Marie's (10ga is tiny to stamp on, especially wobbly half round wire).

For stamping and general manipulation of the metal, it needed to be annealed first. This process makes the silver molecules loose so that they will take a stamping much easier than if this step is skipped. I actually had to anneal these rings many more times throughout the process.

I stamped on a hockey puck (from my nephews bar mitzvah...don't tell him!) so I didn't mar the outside of the wire too much. The wire gets a little funky when you stamp it. This looks awful, but no worries, it all works out in the end.

After I got the insides of the rings stamped with the inscriptions, I use my ring mandrel to eyeball the length of wire I need for the size of ring I want, and saw it away. Then I formed the bands around the mandrel to get them sort of roundish so that I can solder them closed.

I shape the bands as much as I can turning the cut ends in to form somewhat of a straight edge to get ready to solder. The 10ga was easy, but the 6ga definitely needed some more annealing. I couldn't even move it anymore from the position it is in the photo above, even with leverage! So annealing I go again...

After the soldering, there are some solder spots/pools left on the metal, I have to file that off, inside and out. I also filed into the edges on the inside, making the rings very smooth, and comfortable for always and forever wear.

Here is my fancy ring mandrel, isn't she pretty? I use a rawhide hammer to make the ring a circle and then to size the ring, hammering the ring down, turning the mandrel all the time until it is at the correct size I desire.

Now it's time to sand, sand, sand...and then polish. My mandrel has sizing grooves that leave little marks on the inside of the rings, not to mention all the other accidental tool marks from the forming. I start with #80 sanding paper, and work my way down to #30 finishing paper. In sandpaper terms, that might be 320 grit to 600 grit.

It's a lot of work sanding the inside and outside by hand, but the results are wonderful. When the finish is desired, it's time to polish. I am using tripoli to polish these rings to a mirror shine, inside and out.

Here they are finished.

These were really fun to make, I hope to be asked again!

Paws New England Charity Concert

2009-05-08T16:18:00.004-04:00

Band Gig has another charity concert tonight!
This time it's for Paws New England

Once again, I have made a donation to the cause for the raffle. This little dogbone necklace...so cute!

Doors open at 7:30pm $10 donation at the door.

Anticipation

2009-05-04T08:10:00.000-04:00

Scott in Brooklyn?

Me in Paris?

One more guess!

I love sparkly shiny things!

A walk through Walpole

2009-04-30T22:11:00.010-04:00

Rusty and I took a long walk today through East Walpole, into Walpole and back again. We walked through Bird Park (Francis William Park) and all the way to Plimpton Street. We actually made it almost to Main Street, but I got scared and turned back because Plimpton Street is not a street for walking, I found out. Very narrow, no sidewalk, but what really made me turn back was a super friendly black Chow Chow dog not chained in his unfenced yard who bounded over to say 'hi' while I kept saying 'no' trying to pull Rusty away from him (can't be too careful!). It was a nice day for a walk, very sunny but nice and cool. I did find my dream house on Plimpton Street though (in my dreams).

Bird Park is blooming like crazy, a lovely time to stroll through.

We had a wonderful walk, I googled our route when I got home and we did about a 5 mile loop. Rusty was actually walking almost behind me the last 1/4 mile...he was done! This is what a worn out dog looks like.

Look at those eyes, he is just exhausted!

Julie borrowed my car for tonight, so perhaps I will take Rusty on an even longer walk tomorrow to pick up the car at the Gallery. It's nice to have a worn out dog...especially one that is usually barking at you for attention.

1000 Markets

2009-04-26T00:42:00.003-04:00

1000 markets is a selling venue that is juried and fabulous. There are wonderful things to be seen and bought here, please browse around!

I just found out that I was accepted, and I am so happy! Please check out my shop there, and if you are so inclined, buy something! Haaahhaa!

It's late, they approved me moments ago, so forgive me for my overexcitability, please!

I can't believe that I got in! Yay!!!!

Rusty has a new hobby!

2009-04-25T21:40:00.009-04:00

Jape played some agility games with Rusty today while Suzanne and I watched. Apparently Rusty really likes jumping!

Some activities he was not so interested in, particularly the frisbee...

I think he had a fantastic time playing in the backyard with Jape. Rusty came home with his own hula hoop, so we may practice some tomorrow in the backyard.
He liked jumping the stationary rake, too.

Alright, it took over 1 1/2 hours to upload less than 2 minutes of video. Gha!

Old Cemetery

2009-04-24T08:43:00.000-04:00

So, yes... I have been amongst the missing, I know it. I apologize to the few readers who have been wondering when and if I would ever post another bit of nonsense, mainly Suzanne and Kim...LOL!

Anyhoo, to celebrate my return, here are some pictures of a cemetery I have recently discovered.

I pulled over and walked around for a bit the other day. It was an incredibly sunny day! I think I need to go exploring more on an overcast day, or when the sun is not so high in the sky.

I would have never even known this cemetery existed had I not decided to change my route because of construction. It's quite lovely, on a hill (although the pictures don't show that well) and very small. I don't even know what the proper name of this cemetery is, but I think it is a non-conjoined part of Sharon Memorial Park.

Just beautiful!

Some new shows

2009-04-23T09:08:00.000-04:00

I have added some new shows to my list this summer.

Thursday, June 4th
5pm - 9pm
JP First Thursdays
The Lawn at Curtis Hall
20 South Street, Jamaica Plain

Sunday, June 14th
Boston Handmade at SEOM
SOWA
10am - 4pm
540 Harrison Ave,
Boston, MA

Thursday, July 2nd
5pm - 9pm
JP First Thursdays
The Lawn at Curtis Hall
20 South Street, Jamaica Plain

Hope to see you there!

Native American Hand Puppet

2009-04-22T08:23:00.000-04:00

I made this hand puppet in 3rd or 4th grade.

This is the only artwork from Elementary school that I was able to keep over the years. My family moved from Los Angeles to Boston in 1978, and we literally packed a suitcase and moved to Grandmas house. We did not 'pack up the house' we were told to only take what was most important to us (if it fit into a suitcase). Somehow, this hand puppet was important to me.

I made her with my own hands, and I have kept her safe now for over 34 years. Her necklace has seen better days, her dress is a bit tattered, and she shows her age with her cracked face, but to me she is beautiful and I am proud that she hasn't fallen apart after all these years.

She is surely not my first art/craft, but she is the oldest one still in my possession. I love her.

Crystal on Martha!

2009-03-24T22:03:00.004-04:00

Boston Handmade member Crystal Hanehan of VintagebyCrystal will be on The Martha Stewart Show tomorrow! Airing here in Boston on Fox 25 at 10am...check your local listings!

I'm really excited to see her segment! She will be demonstrating this needle felted nest for Martha's 'Easter Crafts' inspired show.

Deep breaths Crystal, I'm sure you'll do great!

Stressful times

2009-03-12T22:36:00.004-04:00

In this troubling economy, many people are losing their jobs.

My jobs are safe because I don't have a steady full time job, I have my hands in many small time efforts that fill my day and give me many small paychecks that amount to a fair pay that I am comfortable with. If I lose one job, I will still have a couple. If I lose two jobs, I will have more time to make more jewelry to sell. I feel lucky in that I am not a slave to any one of my part time jobs. And I feel lucky to have a husband who supports me in every one of my small time efforts, and in the long run, a pension that will take care of us in old age.

Ramble aside....one of my part time jobs is being assistant to a wonderful man who deals with people's retirement funds, 401(k)s and annuities. I have been feeling his stress every time one of his highly paid clients loses his/her job and it has been affecting my overall happy attitude. I haven't posted much to my blog as the market has taken a dive with the Bears pushing down as hard as they can. This likely won't change for years. There will be upswings and down swings, but over all, this won't be over for quite some time I fear.

When the Bulls strap on their harnesses and are ready to pull us up and out of this financial mess I'm sure to have a cheerier attitude. I'd love to be posting happy thoughts, but this is on my mind at this moment, so there you go.

Come on Bulls, we're ready for you!

A few of my favorite Boston Handmade things.

2009-03-10T23:29:00.011-04:00

Being a member of such a talented group of artisans and craft people can have it's advantages. I have the first look at some of the most wonderful new items, and sometimes...they are gifts!

During the annual meeting in January, we exchanged gifts as a group. I was lucky enough to score two of these wonderful coasters from Lucie Wicker which have become a staple on my coffee table ever since. Hubby and I love them!

During the BH Downtown store's run, I had purchased an eyeglass case from Elizabeth Brennick designs which I have put to use as more than just an eyeglass case. I use it to hold the faceplate for my radio when I park in Boston, and when I am not parking in Boston...eyeglass case it is!

I also bought a painted wooded brooch from Wellerwishes (my sister, Kathy) which I wear all the time and love so much! Her pieces evoke a long lost imaginary magical time. So whimsical and colorful!

Since I first discovered Mimi Kirchner's dolls...yes, when I first joined Boston Handmade, I have longed to own one of her dolls. Lucky for me, she had these magnets for sale of her masculine tattoo men who now grace the front of my refrigerator. Someday I will own a real Mimi doll, but until then, I get to look at images of these beautiful tattooed men...

I am a huge fan of Breton Bleu Studios, I am lucky enough to own a few of her original paintings. I'm a huge fan! My favorite is a mini painting of a marsh that reminds me of Prince Edward Island...even tho I know that it was either from the coast of Massachusetts or of France. Here are a few together.

What are your favorite Boston Handmade items?

More Dog

2009-02-18T09:02:00.000-05:00

A Sleeping Dog is a Good Dog

2009-02-17T19:57:00.004-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T19:01:00.003-05:00

Scott gave me roses.

Pretty, red, fragrant roses...

What'd you get?