Let me ask you a question—Is there anything more satisfying than creating something successfully from scratch?  What if that thing you are creating includes using tools that you may have never used before-such as a torch, hydraulic press, or even special hammers?  Is there any way to become more social than being with a group of people all experiencing this together for the first time? Yes, I am talking about learning to metal smith–to create jewelry, small sculptures, bowls, or boxes.  …

Read More

Okay friends, let’s face it–this has been one crazy year!  Some things that happened this year were strange, of course, Covid 19 being at the worst, and shifting of priorities maybe the best?  It depends on your viewpoint.  I am fortunate that as of this writing, I have not contracted Covid 19, and none of my close friends or relatives have either.  We have been extra careful, and so far, so good. The shifting of priorities has worked both ways, spending more time at home has been a good thing, as I was one of those always running around.  …

Read More

I have to say that during this Holiday Season, practically every online merchant you purchase from, wants a review from their customer.  They are emailing you.  Please review your item! Will you review your purchase? Please take a minute and complete a satisfaction survey….on and on it goes.  And many sites, like Etsy or Amazon, request a review for EACH separate item, instead of reviewing a total transaction.     And just rating with stars is not good enough, you have to add a certain number of words to make the review viable!…

Read More

This week, we are winding up our 8 weeks of metalsmith classes during these challenging times.  We practiced mask wearing, deep cleaning, plexiglass, sanitizing, and small class size.  Despite these challenges, each class bonded well, and each student amazed me with the depth of their designs, and their willingness to try brand new ideas.  The jewelry they created was incredible!  And I didn’t even touch on the enthusiasm! And everyone stayed healthy!  These classes were a gift for every one of us.  …

Read More

Alas–School is starting up, activities are being scheduled, and the busy Fall Season begins.  I sit here on my last day of “Summer” as I start my day job back up tomorrow as a music therapist in a school for special needs students.  I will still be here after school to make my jewelry creations, and to teach some metalsmithing classes (3 per week). We will all be back  to activities in a very crazy time, made more difficult by Covid 19 protocols.  …

Read More

One of the best parts of spring and summer for me, is the return of the Catbirds.  Especially this year, spending more time at home due to the pandemic, I have enjoyed watching the Catbird family come to my feeder, right next to me while I sat on my deck.  Now that it is the end of August, my Catbird family seems to have left on its long journey south.  I am fascinated by the birds’ migration.  …

Read More