tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67400911449633656992024-03-03T15:52:32.217-08:00CHARMS BY LOISCHARMS BY LOIS *
A LOOK INTO THE WORLD OF THE CREATIVE SPIRIT.charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.comBlogger955125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-13425024892921887882024-03-03T15:52:00.000-08:002024-03-03T15:52:00.156-08:00A Cold and Windy first Sunday in March<p> Today feels like winter but it could be the beginning of spring; and the afternoon finds me in the studio creating some multi dangle earrings to place in the front display window. Green is a color that calls to me when little bulbs start rising from the ground and buds appear on the trees. Anyhow, today I finished making three pairs of spring earrings in colors that say hello to this change of seasons. </p><p>I used my own sterling silver earring tops and added a collection of teeny beads and charms for the dangles. These are light and flirty earrings, perfect for anyone. I think Easter is early this year so of course these would be a pretty edition to any Easter or spring basket. Chocolates, earrings and maybe a flowering little plant - I will check in with the bunny and ask for just those things! </p><p>I love making multi dangle earrings and have collected beads for decades to use in making them. I like combining small things in a variety of color and texture. I even occasionally use tiny beads from 1930's Germany. I have a special fondness for old beads. </p><p>Hope to see you soon around town and in the shop plus hop on in and visit me on line. Facebook, Instagram or wynwoods.com. XO, Lois</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiga_3a72a-57B_lUOjNFugx_PhSLcoISsKGmqkYpeYWo15o4nwybowR0doY-N16mHJf-PL5SZ0HTDoQIxcNR3gCcI4JGitCa0kHacOO4un7QMof7tT1ZOmru_cP0w4PVLjsjl8rVM1zNszZzGxExUplLJCV9arf1pux66Vy_NmpODKlGyXQZ3z0Anq8-Bo/s1498/0-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1124" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiga_3a72a-57B_lUOjNFugx_PhSLcoISsKGmqkYpeYWo15o4nwybowR0doY-N16mHJf-PL5SZ0HTDoQIxcNR3gCcI4JGitCa0kHacOO4un7QMof7tT1ZOmru_cP0w4PVLjsjl8rVM1zNszZzGxExUplLJCV9arf1pux66Vy_NmpODKlGyXQZ3z0Anq8-Bo/s320/0-1.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP_7HnpYZ1GPdlPGnW8eJMz5JizkHqlsYgOFCzzrulE_ZHKRJ_aNmqOXMvfnMJsWy86c52PZvlWZzDIn8daFSt0yJHxDhGCLieosN57Su4hgo4rCbas084aHPMkn4N9RjbfsQ4QKKE9-JHXshlZ7ZCHmlnDbgf1yVVSc63m8ynxcW1dDT0ckRZWx5yTYS/s1498/0-2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1124" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGP_7HnpYZ1GPdlPGnW8eJMz5JizkHqlsYgOFCzzrulE_ZHKRJ_aNmqOXMvfnMJsWy86c52PZvlWZzDIn8daFSt0yJHxDhGCLieosN57Su4hgo4rCbas084aHPMkn4N9RjbfsQ4QKKE9-JHXshlZ7ZCHmlnDbgf1yVVSc63m8ynxcW1dDT0ckRZWx5yTYS/s320/0-2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiQwtOS44eLI61eQldhM2bOB1_Oi4k6KAU8cmONQqaJ19Fyy6K1BklP-1c7WiJvpduqHdpvN1kgkr9v1Nh4vHm3m0EFY0FKHq1ddVVVsyfQOWZpWR_lSIMUAiV2i7onuLDs9WzEFiVtIMGbU2llptvXU3qULV5P_xp1D-oUDdy2782RX_dP-CgMgyqS9-/s1498/0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1124" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiQwtOS44eLI61eQldhM2bOB1_Oi4k6KAU8cmONQqaJ19Fyy6K1BklP-1c7WiJvpduqHdpvN1kgkr9v1Nh4vHm3m0EFY0FKHq1ddVVVsyfQOWZpWR_lSIMUAiV2i7onuLDs9WzEFiVtIMGbU2llptvXU3qULV5P_xp1D-oUDdy2782RX_dP-CgMgyqS9-/s320/0.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-55983684222788040542024-02-03T15:47:00.000-08:002024-02-03T15:47:34.961-08:00New Month, New Beads<p> It is a gray and wet Saturday afternoon and although I am very grateful for this much needed rain, which makes snow in the mountains; I am stuck indoors with weather and a virus. Yuck. Not my ideal way to spend the day!</p><p>Anyhow, new beads and inventory has been arriving like crazy and I am gradually pricing and getting it out into the shop. I like this time of year, when the holidays of the previous year are tucked away and we are thinking forward, at this mid point between winter's dark days and the spring solstice, to spring! Longer days, a bit of the sun's warmth and the feeling of rebirth and newness. </p><p>With that in mind, here are some of the new beads I popped into the bead shop's inventory yesterday:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguu3stwoEhd0xpDU9YXeWj8-8O3qhPzFjY1VtzwvG9bomUck0UrONX6M7xn3PvvAjJjBMSX4Sz-bM-tIO2deH01knar4i_tAdm5sNKEUTT0Ja7u_xmt6BZS4RXPKZOyxb2f4xrZ1Fa-Er60xrlaIOWmW-yU9K1Ngmq-_TCUxSZkjAtYWn1ZjS3bG_JvL0f/s1442/0-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1442" data-original-width="1082" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguu3stwoEhd0xpDU9YXeWj8-8O3qhPzFjY1VtzwvG9bomUck0UrONX6M7xn3PvvAjJjBMSX4Sz-bM-tIO2deH01knar4i_tAdm5sNKEUTT0Ja7u_xmt6BZS4RXPKZOyxb2f4xrZ1Fa-Er60xrlaIOWmW-yU9K1Ngmq-_TCUxSZkjAtYWn1ZjS3bG_JvL0f/s320/0-1.jpeg" width="240" /></a></blockquote></div><br /><p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpA2cvTSr-QySeJ0_okVHLpuK2F7SfofR2-6Wnxjn0TRJeuB7BIoVaTqbhBwISNNG7sxfyIoV5mldpBSToHnpvnpOJZFzfl97IdlEZzIrcTMGvHmT8SqZmUvQmGE9LvE_E8x2GpOZKSmmap_DJiYnkEi7WRk_vEWNSoggWolm8Xw4DKJhnslkKUKO41iP/s1442/0-2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1442" data-original-width="1082" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpA2cvTSr-QySeJ0_okVHLpuK2F7SfofR2-6Wnxjn0TRJeuB7BIoVaTqbhBwISNNG7sxfyIoV5mldpBSToHnpvnpOJZFzfl97IdlEZzIrcTMGvHmT8SqZmUvQmGE9LvE_E8x2GpOZKSmmap_DJiYnkEi7WRk_vEWNSoggWolm8Xw4DKJhnslkKUKO41iP/s320/0-2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9Jz0xSxxJbxhlLHRqTaYtp_KfXA6_S1sd2SzjTfDkbw5-KhXK6QntDU5kRRKT6rOVbV03MSyH7vaeLvrnR1yVigU05Bx7fjSwyvZCg0MVUr_ucspzJO62wSFu8ZZrfn1pZwORFVGKlsxjXiq9XHxcM6NsQZSNlT6tA070xwgDEblMCS9yNs60oAR7eON/s1498/0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1124" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9Jz0xSxxJbxhlLHRqTaYtp_KfXA6_S1sd2SzjTfDkbw5-KhXK6QntDU5kRRKT6rOVbV03MSyH7vaeLvrnR1yVigU05Bx7fjSwyvZCg0MVUr_ucspzJO62wSFu8ZZrfn1pZwORFVGKlsxjXiq9XHxcM6NsQZSNlT6tA070xwgDEblMCS9yNs60oAR7eON/s320/0.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>New beads make me so happy and inspire me too. I love color and these colorful birds and that brilliant orange make me feel very creative and like new earrings and stitch markers are coming on!</p><p>You can always order these beads by emailing me at lois@wynwoods.com, calling the shop at 360-385-6131 ( PST on the west coast ) or posting a message to my FB or Instagram pages all under my business name of Wynwoods Gallery and Studio.</p><p>Next up I am unpacking a beautiful shipment of baskets and more bells and chimes. Hope to see you soon in the shop ( yes, an old fashioned brick and mortar store in an actual down town. ) Or see you on line or on the phone or.... Love, Lois</p><p>www.wynwoods.com</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-32471306745843377902024-01-09T19:22:00.000-08:002024-01-09T19:22:14.508-08:00Can you Believe it is 2024?!<p> I am thunderstruck that time has moved so fast, so forward, that it is now 2024 and this year finds the shop entering its 34th year. An amazing blessing and a fun, creative journey. I have spent half my life in the shop and I could not be happier. Have I made any resolutions? Not really. I do want to display my jewelry and silver work differently, more prominently. I would like to remind everyone that I do silver work and also that I am a painter, an artist with a fine arts background. I resolve to be kind all the time. To appreciate every single one of my customers and potential customers. Come summer, I want to sit out on the Tyler Street Plaza and visit with friends, customers and the customers who have become or might become friends. I resolve to encourage creativity in as many people as I can. I want to use creativity and making things as a solution or shield for what ails society and bring us back to each other in a positive, caring light. I resolve to enjoy every single day that I get to be on this earth. I resolve to love more, create more, play more. I am also thankful for the customers, friends and family who have supported me in the past 33 years. I still recall friends saying, " You are going to sell what? My accountant at the time saying, " You spent how much on what?" I can smile at the memories and want to continue to make more memories that bring me smiles. So all, thank you from the bottom of my heart!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaJiPX6KUgHr3W4k9M3cpvLBQXhwN0w9rWSznpNJGiSxnKNVSVhKFzl5vwHOFads0FCYFh7ltEDMK1Fpenj9THWPrAV4rXGM2KvcnDoydxiVOd5HomsFozYuqGAkV2ASNissjBSCDIVmO1VMis29tYD4H48tWyNpQ6ncwKXLcPeG32YuupL8u728tI-i_/s4032/IMG_5104.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaJiPX6KUgHr3W4k9M3cpvLBQXhwN0w9rWSznpNJGiSxnKNVSVhKFzl5vwHOFads0FCYFh7ltEDMK1Fpenj9THWPrAV4rXGM2KvcnDoydxiVOd5HomsFozYuqGAkV2ASNissjBSCDIVmO1VMis29tYD4H48tWyNpQ6ncwKXLcPeG32YuupL8u728tI-i_/s320/IMG_5104.heic" width="320" /></a></div>This is the jewelry I have made in the last day or so on the desk in my studio. A collection of hand drawn vintage glass beads, gemstones, Czech glass, seed beads, metal, horn, shell, and more. These were made specifically for the front display window. The idea for using the old hand drawn Pakistani glass beads has been floating in my mind for a few weeks now. The beads are circa 1960's. A mat cobalt glass.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcXvNvkzSWcQEcKPfx689mro2vTMdJO1oddyl7VEBPzMgJ_cyFgCbMiVpfOML_KVcoOXLnO53tY5zyPez_5LEvHNq6W8UK1s4F-wB1Fnvfa-Ihh3F8sIeMCVAkaX3TxfFT29JNlQuM-8sYcpuDOIVVCjf3DWsyEbLsC_4LtXZF5f6IYUK-dcgVdPvVK2n/s4032/IMG_5099.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcXvNvkzSWcQEcKPfx689mro2vTMdJO1oddyl7VEBPzMgJ_cyFgCbMiVpfOML_KVcoOXLnO53tY5zyPez_5LEvHNq6W8UK1s4F-wB1Fnvfa-Ihh3F8sIeMCVAkaX3TxfFT29JNlQuM-8sYcpuDOIVVCjf3DWsyEbLsC_4LtXZF5f6IYUK-dcgVdPvVK2n/w320-h240/IMG_5099.heic" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is Onyx, my son's precious 7 month old puppy. All 15 pounds of her.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">She is curled tightly into a yarn basket, snoozing away on her blue rubber bone. My new assistant.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So ends my posting tonight and begins the pursuit of my 2024 almost resolutions. I leave you with love and peace and wishes for all the best for you in this new year!</div><p> </p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-59160871451393013492023-11-03T23:34:00.002-07:002023-11-03T23:56:55.275-07:00Fall, finally! <p> I love fall! The change in the seasons brings new energy and insight along with great bursts of creativity! The changing leaf colors draw me to colors of rusts and ambers in wool yarns. My needles itch to create hats and fingerless gloves. My knitting plans turn to crafting Christmas and holiday gifts. I ordered Turkey yesterday for Thanksgiving and pulled a favorite scarf from my winter clothes box. </p><p><br /></p><p>Tonight, as the first of November’s drenching rains and winds begins; I am thinking if the Malabrigo yarn on its way and the Superwash wools I will be ordering on Monday.</p><p>Come visit us in Diva and share a little if you’re knitting dreams with us! 🧡🍁</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9HPZdQcweooneZPFOU6NNozIOH6j5vk64VcOaCAbHkPoKhdZzbeMVb50dVMkDGBwRoG9Cy-gL94OqZ_RjngHQmudOOQra7r-6M4NcjkZ8rIi08h3MEbQU1lJcPpC4D4ru-cuJCHx43kf2I0RJrVAjp4kJc-vIgVd74SNp9rI6KNxF3Wk7_gbiOWWnOXo/s4032/IMG_4223.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9HPZdQcweooneZPFOU6NNozIOH6j5vk64VcOaCAbHkPoKhdZzbeMVb50dVMkDGBwRoG9Cy-gL94OqZ_RjngHQmudOOQra7r-6M4NcjkZ8rIi08h3MEbQU1lJcPpC4D4ru-cuJCHx43kf2I0RJrVAjp4kJc-vIgVd74SNp9rI6KNxF3Wk7_gbiOWWnOXo/s320/IMG_4223.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96B8dCGoyLeegk2Z2baVz78HSqIJ0K2Cbel0vPk6KcbehXlD6Kk8h_BevykrtQZi0ebvBfGY4WLK4fLi6p4K_t8D5Sd7xi_jWv5LKulu44TtvdOm-H45__cLAkssZm4O2slh_TPl_nwUY8W0mRSLuYEKQdwGxVrlrYX4iQVytN68gbBkrkSf5HuBJdCmR/s2688/IMG_4334.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="2688" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96B8dCGoyLeegk2Z2baVz78HSqIJ0K2Cbel0vPk6KcbehXlD6Kk8h_BevykrtQZi0ebvBfGY4WLK4fLi6p4K_t8D5Sd7xi_jWv5LKulu44TtvdOm-H45__cLAkssZm4O2slh_TPl_nwUY8W0mRSLuYEKQdwGxVrlrYX4iQVytN68gbBkrkSf5HuBJdCmR/s320/IMG_4334.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Sweet dreamy knitty dreams! </p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-36539277437220587432023-07-02T14:28:00.002-07:002023-07-02T14:28:58.900-07:00<p> <span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Months and months have gone by since I last wrote on this blog. A creative journey indeed. The shop, Wynwoods Gallery & Studio in Port Townsend, Washington is now in its 32nd year and I love my shop as much as the day that the idea for it popped into my head.</span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">The two men that helped me along the way to begin this journey have passed away. Jack Hirsch and Gary Lindheimer. Partners in life and the business, Great Expectations, that I shared retail space with. A little 12 x 12 or was it 14 x 14 back room on the left behind their big store that was filled with wondrous things. I think of them often. Of their kindness, their creativity, their hosts plant business, their amazing home, and Gary's ribald humor. Oh, but he enjoyed making me blush right up to the day that he said something and my comeback left him speechless. Something about a seagull and its mating practices. Although I don't remember the actual words I said, I am still smiling at the memory. I laughed myself silly that day and many days after.</p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">The journey to today has been fun, full of decisions and adventure, friendship and making things. Conversations with customers, several of whom have become some of my closest friends. Sharing how to info with fellow business owners and the best part? Meeting my husband in my tiny shop and beginning a new life with him. It has been an astounding, broadening journey.</p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Mostly I feel satisfied but still pursuing creativity and making a living from my craft and art. Ever since I was just a little girl, on boring long summer days out of school; I would turn to my mother and say, " I just want to make something. What should I make?" She would look at me and answer, " anything you want. " </p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">That was the answer I needed and it has guided my life all these days and years. Thank you to my mom. What this has also taught me is that when you speak or say something, you never truly realize how your words will live on, an inspiration or encouragement to others. I have always tried to do the same with the people I meet. I encourage people to be creative, a you can do it talk when they say in my shop, " Oh, I couldn't. " Yes, you can. When a parent leans down to a child and says you can not make that, you can not have the bead or charm they have been drawn to, I remind that parent that creativity should never be squashed or shut down. Let the kid be inspired and excited! Endless mid summer afternoons can inspire hearty creative energy in a bored or lonely child or teenager.</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-63388697385577161392023-07-02T14:28:00.001-07:002023-07-02T14:28:44.357-07:00charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-40083398472124223042022-12-11T19:54:00.003-08:002022-12-11T19:54:44.186-08:00Complications and a Simpler Life<p> The more I work in my office and on line, the more I long for a simpler return to the fine craft of making things. The computerized world can leave me ever so cold especially the I can not figure out how to do something on line. Right now I am stuck with a weird FB post on my website's home page and my Instagram post have disappeared into the ethers. Please bear with me as I try to figure this out with my web guy, Chuck. I am as always open to suggestion. Help. </p><p>In the meantime, I sent most of the day in my studio making stretch bracelets and earrings. I am content to sit all day and do these things, if my body allows for it. Today being all cold and very damp, it was just plain delightful to sit in the warm studio and create. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4SAl0lw4X-wBeWZczEbPJiIJatj6cEevHlufP0YXTBYWPo7BWq7c-Z2W2LPEOBHekHtrt7raJ4h7nh1G5aE4KP8Y7wkW1cY5nNYlIJlfLubegd66zmMWk7oD8nVragw2vv7B6JJIQqfYyFzUM3H6tBOSScm4iGKpri3sVEI5BJGpyRlQgAes7AzKYw/s937/IMG_8766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4SAl0lw4X-wBeWZczEbPJiIJatj6cEevHlufP0YXTBYWPo7BWq7c-Z2W2LPEOBHekHtrt7raJ4h7nh1G5aE4KP8Y7wkW1cY5nNYlIJlfLubegd66zmMWk7oD8nVragw2vv7B6JJIQqfYyFzUM3H6tBOSScm4iGKpri3sVEI5BJGpyRlQgAes7AzKYw/s320/IMG_8766.jpg" width="193" /></a>An image of the divine mother, the woman within us from a Ukrainian </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Artist. I am sorry I do not know the artist's name but the image with her beads about her, speaks to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now this evening is turning into a quick trip out to the studio again to make crystal Christmas earrings to take into the bead shop tomorrow. Come see me and say hello in the bead shop tomorrow. XO lois</div><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-27208728711035824712022-07-20T22:17:00.001-07:002022-07-20T22:17:07.936-07:00Summer Greetings<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> It is here in all its bright, hot glory... summer! I love summer for cool evening breezes and warm days. I do not like at all the heat of our new to this area, heat domes. The good thing about them is I can park myself in front of a fan and do some serious beadwork. I like to string multiple strand necklaces and bracelets as a way to unwind and think and feel the calmness of bead meditation. Stay cool, stay hydrated and stay creative. My summer plan!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyl2o1VEtqy8NvOn-L0Iqu2uf8OGi92TmlO4NXHn24Zh4XyJUqOyhImcZ2O1dt7UNrL32SJ3NEMjG9cADqwJ7ELiF0GX1TrmZDhegwmSdFwI_JiOstXatXbpfbKLG7J8YAlvFMgBgnuK4SuIgLPTjSnbxh4kycw6MV5I-g4s7Em1OJrzdAbWP2O-E7Vg/s1080/291991797_10159233521813323_5715234459931621312_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyl2o1VEtqy8NvOn-L0Iqu2uf8OGi92TmlO4NXHn24Zh4XyJUqOyhImcZ2O1dt7UNrL32SJ3NEMjG9cADqwJ7ELiF0GX1TrmZDhegwmSdFwI_JiOstXatXbpfbKLG7J8YAlvFMgBgnuK4SuIgLPTjSnbxh4kycw6MV5I-g4s7Em1OJrzdAbWP2O-E7Vg/s320/291991797_10159233521813323_5715234459931621312_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>What my little bundle of work looks like at the end of a studio day. A day " off " from the shop. </div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yBjQghz5PPLy9l8gsTNY0bxyyQ8DDmDRemwQ7H0n8B4F1mLyBlgghTpqXN5MW2yqTJU-Yp8oOHQcB4WnRQOM2oke9dytSLmdQn6QYVn9p9yAW89E7cZHddHHCvB9V-henAVTFNP13u4_nifMQ4YiZ_ZaLXfnvYiCd1dFo_jIyimJTwcTWjcB19Mz3Q/s960/293373661_10159238573263323_8489343961327332302_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yBjQghz5PPLy9l8gsTNY0bxyyQ8DDmDRemwQ7H0n8B4F1mLyBlgghTpqXN5MW2yqTJU-Yp8oOHQcB4WnRQOM2oke9dytSLmdQn6QYVn9p9yAW89E7cZHddHHCvB9V-henAVTFNP13u4_nifMQ4YiZ_ZaLXfnvYiCd1dFo_jIyimJTwcTWjcB19Mz3Q/s320/293373661_10159238573263323_8489343961327332302_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are 24KT gold foil encased by hand in Czech glass bead hearts. I made them into pendants and have them on satin gold chains in the shop. $ 14.95. I used to make them a couple of decades back but thought this is the summer to bring them back. Gold, glassy and sparkly! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOYxz7VrNqn94OrJ6tUxwmE8ldSaED7B2LAko0Qp9XBK1ChnZjFWUs1vzp0enJRs243I3xx8MZi6683siwpHpCpiONF319LtgOp8pfhCBiuUt6tjXFZSIc-7RqN01Y_fhT8gC-0wiuT7vSTHqd23eb7NN2FAxXr-ulyHKIaVG0F2yvlDJxyNlNaEE8w/s4000/DSCN0321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOYxz7VrNqn94OrJ6tUxwmE8ldSaED7B2LAko0Qp9XBK1ChnZjFWUs1vzp0enJRs243I3xx8MZi6683siwpHpCpiONF319LtgOp8pfhCBiuUt6tjXFZSIc-7RqN01Y_fhT8gC-0wiuT7vSTHqd23eb7NN2FAxXr-ulyHKIaVG0F2yvlDJxyNlNaEE8w/s320/DSCN0321.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Earrings made with what I call summer Caribbean colors. Hot, tropical, swingy. These are my moon & sun earring tops and are on my website. Sterling Silver. You can make your own with my earring tops, your beads and some sterling head pins. Every summer needs a special pair of earrings!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is it for me tonight. It has been a long day of studio work and watching a very big, chubby garter snake in my herb bed. I am going to post his or her picture on my FB page tonight. I saw her last summer and this is my first visit with her this summer. Snakes do not bother me but don't even talk to me about a spider!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stay cool! Have fun! Get creative and crafty!! xo Lois</div><p></p><p>lois@wynwoods.com. <br /><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-4924888613630200762022-06-12T16:32:00.002-07:002022-06-12T16:32:22.535-07:00Sunday, a perfect crafting afternoon.<p> It began a bit sunny but is now cool, gray and breezy. Not even 60 degrees which is totally fine with me! I like cool and gray. </p><p>I have made a few things for the shop today which is my typical Sunday. This day began with a mad dash into the building my shop is in to check on an upstairs plumbing leak. Argh. I really do not like days that begin with a crisis. I think all is well now and maybe I can concentrate on other things. Favorite things like drawing, painting and making jewelry! </p><p>This week will find me in the shop on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I like seeing all my customers and enjoy being there. New beads have come so there is always the excitement of showing them off and putting them out into inventory. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtwKVPLaDOK6rAZlpAkAnapQiGag2SPAYXsGjmT7CjQNeoL833C_xJBBTweWsw59tuec1X0dntRBHKQOt5MKSZjJW-rjrtOSQ3b1jffzDohgbUehMFykAPKQvPVsrcGTsqFOct7cCoYrDxhqGO5lGwGFLLgBMIUYafbYRrxjAma29KEjZonsAPEoxJA/s1000/IMG_3836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtwKVPLaDOK6rAZlpAkAnapQiGag2SPAYXsGjmT7CjQNeoL833C_xJBBTweWsw59tuec1X0dntRBHKQOt5MKSZjJW-rjrtOSQ3b1jffzDohgbUehMFykAPKQvPVsrcGTsqFOct7cCoYrDxhqGO5lGwGFLLgBMIUYafbYRrxjAma29KEjZonsAPEoxJA/s320/IMG_3836.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>This is my little altar that is on the tiny bookcase shelf behind my desk. It reminds me to keep the faith and to trust my instincts and to be kind, thoughtful and express gratitude. Do you have anything similar? <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKstYWYFoLOVtHegL0rVpmAXnbIMZJlSLSgr6gs-gsYDxoxwu-FpGimXR2g54toNMISU61ZTDnPV4HGkRC1ehBVUPNuyrYWlSZAsqX2lAJBKNKJkGNniaQkm4nnt8mNIaKoufoQuBHxuE_liEL42f95H6FDMWY_h5PoMfmW9_8xY0DJQ6MX-TmZ74UA/s1000/IMG_4159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKstYWYFoLOVtHegL0rVpmAXnbIMZJlSLSgr6gs-gsYDxoxwu-FpGimXR2g54toNMISU61ZTDnPV4HGkRC1ehBVUPNuyrYWlSZAsqX2lAJBKNKJkGNniaQkm4nnt8mNIaKoufoQuBHxuE_liEL42f95H6FDMWY_h5PoMfmW9_8xY0DJQ6MX-TmZ74UA/s320/IMG_4159.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>This is my little spice turn table that I have my hand tools on. They are in cups and jam jars and are the tools I reach for as soon as I sit down too work. I have other tools scattered in various areas about the studio in different work stations. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc3VDODAZf07tKr7qqZJQ1j4cANyqSaatvsyK3sLKayFZhBlQ2iNVhV5XR7P-6gsPHS_t72EIARBRgiMKW4n94oGXQW2ZGUEPL2NCj0gchGPrHcb4Z7EQJIOn8H3xlS-sDfvV-d4wutY8lJBCode1T_BwzAM7U9IutY0Th7QFm2KY8fcrGMF2FxhI_Q/s1000/IMG_4247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc3VDODAZf07tKr7qqZJQ1j4cANyqSaatvsyK3sLKayFZhBlQ2iNVhV5XR7P-6gsPHS_t72EIARBRgiMKW4n94oGXQW2ZGUEPL2NCj0gchGPrHcb4Z7EQJIOn8H3xlS-sDfvV-d4wutY8lJBCode1T_BwzAM7U9IutY0Th7QFm2KY8fcrGMF2FxhI_Q/s320/IMG_4247.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally a finished drawing. I have all these new sketchbooks that Jacob & Phil have given me that I might never get them filled with images. I am so longing for a time I can work bigger. <br /><br /><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Summer is nearly here and the solstice is in two weeks. That's when more knitting and fiber work comes out and I retreat too the front porch to work outside, in a warm breeze.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Time to stir up some trouble in the kitchen. Until next time, be well and keep crafting. Lois<div><p><br /></p></div>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-17237442706658570122022-04-26T16:08:00.000-07:002022-04-26T16:08:18.015-07:00Raven on my Neighbor's Roof<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCojV2az1rISGhJIZ81KrE8EW5SZpQa9067PRIgDNVw0RfMuEmsfkdiMfGGvLLr7tZQ3x0dZ8QNtwH_5KpXmhFZoPVYVV7nq1lTHauhJeYRw_Q2doY4Ql6b8X3BzpQySIPybPIbqYxDHYz0EsV5rnhax1PlOJdsIFe2aeTYjiatfB_4jhmHvH2SLipA/s4032/IMG_8952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCojV2az1rISGhJIZ81KrE8EW5SZpQa9067PRIgDNVw0RfMuEmsfkdiMfGGvLLr7tZQ3x0dZ8QNtwH_5KpXmhFZoPVYVV7nq1lTHauhJeYRw_Q2doY4Ql6b8X3BzpQySIPybPIbqYxDHYz0EsV5rnhax1PlOJdsIFe2aeTYjiatfB_4jhmHvH2SLipA/s320/IMG_8952.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> The raven on my neighbor's shed roof across the street makes me want to jump up and take his picture but he knows. I swear he knows that I am wanting his picture. He taunts me and the moment I move towards the window in my living room or softly step out my front door; he looks at me and with a flick of his tail, flies away. He knows me. He is pacing now waiting for me to make my move. Not today, dear darkest raven. Today, I will not play your game but keep writing on my blog instead. I see you. You see me and today we will both just be two birds in our own world. Yet, time paused for a brief moment, as if you knew I was not going to take your picture. So with the 10X zoom on my phone, I caught you! Ha! And then, off you immediately flew!<p></p><p>We are busy getting ready for summer visitors and traffic to the shop. We have added tons of new inventory with still more on the way. I am so very happy and excited to find treasures to add to my in store selection. Today, I have purchased Czech 6 and 8 mm triangles. A handsome bead to string into jewelry but I think they will be perfectly suited to earrings or as little dangling charms from a chain. They are in chakra colors too so you can make a stretchy bracelet or six for yourself or all your friends. Wouldn't that make a sweet parting gift as you move on through your summer? </p><p>We have opened our classroom annex on Saturdays from 12:30 to 3:30 ish. Just stop in at the bead shop desk and ask to see our selection upstairs on the mezzanine and we will be delighted to walk you up. Masks are required and only one or two people at a time can be in there. These are gemstones, glass, trade beads and more at discounted prices AND we pay the sales tax on items in this room for you! Winner, winner! </p><p>As summer progresses and the days get warmer ( really I do not want hot, just warmth ) we will open our sweet little warehouse by appointment. Give us a call or stop in and Phil will make an appointment for you. We even have a spouse waiting area!</p><p>Also, graduation time calls for special gifts and here are a couple of religious pieces I have cast in white bronze that would be a thoughtful present. More are on my website too. </p><p>Hope to see you around the shop soon. Maybe some warm summer afternoon, we can sit across the street at the plaza and have a coffee or better yet, an iced tea! xo, Lois</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGH4710fIbIxTcgIzzKRa1FCoojOYEQFQsTEy6VG9kmJAbsYqAXsFZnVIXJHKiDei6NI6U-EGvjMIe09-Ex0KGy9FoZ_EXlUao07JHOXUZJNrfdzp-OKkrEtmcOeSmNbNnnhGlZN2530suzMj6Dotrb0ofB9V3NtEOANTBzFJjJvh1FRcM1kaId4HAw/s4032/IMG_8740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGH4710fIbIxTcgIzzKRa1FCoojOYEQFQsTEy6VG9kmJAbsYqAXsFZnVIXJHKiDei6NI6U-EGvjMIe09-Ex0KGy9FoZ_EXlUao07JHOXUZJNrfdzp-OKkrEtmcOeSmNbNnnhGlZN2530suzMj6Dotrb0ofB9V3NtEOANTBzFJjJvh1FRcM1kaId4HAw/s320/IMG_8740.jpg" width="240" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-IwNAwWeCaMrc_n8fkKMte7fBOTJzK6yE1FR9g4Wumtz9cIPP-k47Ikqr6oolJ56sQvMD7OuW1CTiCxdqWQxSJpwBVKFE3chd7UR3IIytlYZqfVLOJmv8DszblHWGldQscpjGVnIzLn9HT4EzlIQL61_l1x-gdCAfMyX12SWk6diOklPKK5MHG0NMg/s4032/IMG_8770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-IwNAwWeCaMrc_n8fkKMte7fBOTJzK6yE1FR9g4Wumtz9cIPP-k47Ikqr6oolJ56sQvMD7OuW1CTiCxdqWQxSJpwBVKFE3chd7UR3IIytlYZqfVLOJmv8DszblHWGldQscpjGVnIzLn9HT4EzlIQL61_l1x-gdCAfMyX12SWk6diOklPKK5MHG0NMg/s320/IMG_8770.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-13374403535489828952022-04-12T15:46:00.001-07:002022-04-12T15:47:38.388-07:00Spring?<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p></blockquote><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not sure how this picture arrived here but it is a side view of my home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNolSIkllWCNxwsz9kEh9V2S-cQb6mwHDJuE6-DEtikq-9_-xBzXWG_F37YvfF-f-Ho7ParCFhz50DN2rOnfA8LR7vUVFwh_c5tJFKlgSIgIeJqA4LIrprGehnDf3SEsb7xKFnYGD_-gNpcYhM_0klcNvjJllJ1O4X5D_bayLytP6sjJAJr-RX7eJUhA/s4032/IMG_8707.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNolSIkllWCNxwsz9kEh9V2S-cQb6mwHDJuE6-DEtikq-9_-xBzXWG_F37YvfF-f-Ho7ParCFhz50DN2rOnfA8LR7vUVFwh_c5tJFKlgSIgIeJqA4LIrprGehnDf3SEsb7xKFnYGD_-gNpcYhM_0klcNvjJllJ1O4X5D_bayLytP6sjJAJr-RX7eJUhA/s320/IMG_8707.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> Blogger moves in awfully weird ways!! charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-4787037917360269182022-04-12T15:42:00.002-07:002022-04-12T15:44:08.798-07:00Spring in a Round About Sort of Way<p> Hello and happy spring! I may be wasting some time here today as I am hoping that I am posting to my charms by Lois blog post, charmsbylois.blogspot.com BUT I may actually be posting to my yarn shop blog. So I am going to post pictures here that are of our local weather, rather generic in nature so it is appropriate for either blog. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYxDMo48VPwGFa2pY5bly8zhdEsGc6lZgCInysUfrjULTSR_nc7SD0te6is4I54fM3E64rJ637FVowQu0ZwLPLgq0RLBq7YdJSE5tyWesoVGCyDffr42gsC662Gz7-XanMiYLPyUL8ti6jNOKPAeRPVanalld6UEndMr673abICqqhqn6HQ9blKj5pg/s4032/IMG_8770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYxDMo48VPwGFa2pY5bly8zhdEsGc6lZgCInysUfrjULTSR_nc7SD0te6is4I54fM3E64rJ637FVowQu0ZwLPLgq0RLBq7YdJSE5tyWesoVGCyDffr42gsC662Gz7-XanMiYLPyUL8ti6jNOKPAeRPVanalld6UEndMr673abICqqhqn6HQ9blKj5pg/w150-h200/IMG_8770.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">ST Peregrine - a sterling silver medal cast from an old piece found in Europe.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The patron Saint for cancer. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4bJdTk_kIdUll_dpi0EMB5_3zDWrdAu-qE-otNf17KdgKX_bYpWqMOVl-YYP06sB7ktNtFJ9uSt0E1t67ojnsf-EjQ3F3GvPQfGhcnWNptT0rQsy-RVLGX9Zz4j_cFeW5GD5AOnRtXU-lJVbvcUq78fNlweueErCI0OBJ1MZcXJZUPF8FPMi-XaBoA/s4032/IMG_8779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4bJdTk_kIdUll_dpi0EMB5_3zDWrdAu-qE-otNf17KdgKX_bYpWqMOVl-YYP06sB7ktNtFJ9uSt0E1t67ojnsf-EjQ3F3GvPQfGhcnWNptT0rQsy-RVLGX9Zz4j_cFeW5GD5AOnRtXU-lJVbvcUq78fNlweueErCI0OBJ1MZcXJZUPF8FPMi-XaBoA/s320/IMG_8779.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is the new view we have outside the building we just constructed behind my studio. This will be a multi use building. My corner will be for creating large paintings, something I have wanted to do for eons. <p></p><p><br /></p><p>The funny thing is, this is all sun and clouds when taken but just a few moments ago, it was snowing! A checkerboard pattern of weather is happening. Snow has not happened here in April for nearly 80 years. </p><p>Signing out now and hoping that this works!</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-4540105335656703972022-03-15T11:12:00.002-07:002022-03-15T11:12:48.450-07:00Aha! Spring is Heading Our Way!<p> Finally, we are beginning to see the hopeful signs of spring. Hyacinths, that most fragrant of fragrant flowers, is bursting forth in a magnificent shade of purple and the mini daffodils or daffy-dills as I grew up calling them, are also spreading their yellow joy throughout the flower beds. </p><p>The bead shop is getting ready for our own version of spring with many new items arriving. Tools, beads, gemstones, baskets, and bells. Lots of bells and chimes. </p><p>I do not need to tell you that the world is crazy stressful right now. That our own area is undergoing a metamorphosis that is always not so pleasant. Some days I just want to put one foot in front of the other and get through the next 24 hours. When things get me feeling a bit down, there are a couple of things I reach for for comfort and companionship. One is the friendship and conversation of my customers. The shop is my happy place. Talking with and spending time with the customers and people passing through are so rewarding and fun, even if all I get to do is wish someone a good afternoon or to enjoy the weekend.</p><p>The other stress reliever is to reach for a project. A beading project in particular. I find, and I am pretty sure you do too, even if you do not put it into so many words, that beading is meditative. Transporting me to a calmer, prettier, mindful place. The gentle art of stringing or knotting beads, of weaving them into a pattern for a wearable piece of jewelry or an art form that brings you beauty, peace, consciousness and joy, enriches our days. I love seeing your work on the internet or in person in the shop. Over the years, I have seen an amazing amount of beautiful pieces and had some of the best conversations of my life. I have made friendships over our mutual love of beads and jewelry.</p><p>Now that things are opening up and the temperatures warming up, we will be able to once again sit outside and have a coffee or lunch on the plaza. I am hoping to see more of you soon. Very soon! Much Love, Lois</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwKc0zyQM-BXnA_fmTLXQv2HJfLJb5HKS-NP7O1AqzhzNQT1uVaauBT-lOOaGkzqn48KNP7pPsJ-t5vLpv8XBXrfgkNzPr10vjAD1vatSsLj9cBk1lSpiHuchOZAa9Mm251HRs7wLBmT6d-osczBhlpFoPe0hIrFpzZd2oudTDtW8MEDzi5FnHCbQbpA=s1350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwKc0zyQM-BXnA_fmTLXQv2HJfLJb5HKS-NP7O1AqzhzNQT1uVaauBT-lOOaGkzqn48KNP7pPsJ-t5vLpv8XBXrfgkNzPr10vjAD1vatSsLj9cBk1lSpiHuchOZAa9Mm251HRs7wLBmT6d-osczBhlpFoPe0hIrFpzZd2oudTDtW8MEDzi5FnHCbQbpA=s320" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quartz crystals to keep you energized and clear. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi86ukSQibSmt38C1LcmpoQZOnuS7KQdXTyCZKM3pNJFQSX3YJR8pEUDzv54I0BTyBHMlUCqzNdKRRinq-9vlWPBFwyJH6-nhBBuMmyyZIhIK8UxZ2gv3kX5dg5ftcc5GmRVwzyUg3Spy3kl_kQdzBeEgRg5rmH3cahT9MAWOBusFrOZnSCvFmgxB_fbg=s1350" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi86ukSQibSmt38C1LcmpoQZOnuS7KQdXTyCZKM3pNJFQSX3YJR8pEUDzv54I0BTyBHMlUCqzNdKRRinq-9vlWPBFwyJH6-nhBBuMmyyZIhIK8UxZ2gv3kX5dg5ftcc5GmRVwzyUg3Spy3kl_kQdzBeEgRg5rmH3cahT9MAWOBusFrOZnSCvFmgxB_fbg=s320" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Affirmation bands as necklace pieces. To remind <br />you of what you are! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-44024307563672295732022-03-07T20:48:00.001-08:002022-03-07T20:48:30.641-08:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What do you do on a clear and sort of sunny day off? You head to the beach to hunt for beach glass and agates.This is my husband walking the beach by the maritime center. Never look up or you might miss a piece of treasured glass!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgG8F5Gd_lRwFZFbhSlczMRlfyFE5C5S0Oat0DWpXwDuSpuQtMR3ITxEuDFCKJaarvHEHlA2fcc57ABLFAcfAMeDPvCWYjiJD7BDF6Q7SrxZ5H_xw_hE-_VhPF3Ja2o94thj6QHJiK1bga0Erjf3HVNif5QQAEj3BPY8pcv03rrMH6ytY_dt1C3sR5fLg=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgG8F5Gd_lRwFZFbhSlczMRlfyFE5C5S0Oat0DWpXwDuSpuQtMR3ITxEuDFCKJaarvHEHlA2fcc57ABLFAcfAMeDPvCWYjiJD7BDF6Q7SrxZ5H_xw_hE-_VhPF3Ja2o94thj6QHJiK1bga0Erjf3HVNif5QQAEj3BPY8pcv03rrMH6ytY_dt1C3sR5fLg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a moment of peace brought to you by this beautiful drifting log ( is it cedar or fir? ) off the dock by the very same maritime center that Phil is strolling about. I wish you could see it here, just exactly how bright and aqua-turquoise-blue the water was. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7QuuARQZXOhCUVoUVkSER5By3gngTik4l9p9B8Rk6yGirhcn2uq3Kv64Vswnr29UsTQ2-Ad6cgNwKZ1qM75EatoR9lIM7RfSUFgr_ivAgtZbPrLd1chL2iahdoDJ4nKEiD5UOP6E2U70drSPNTA2pQMPA3wXbLyyu-TGxR81XnI6Af-TC7STUTN4ANA=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7QuuARQZXOhCUVoUVkSER5By3gngTik4l9p9B8Rk6yGirhcn2uq3Kv64Vswnr29UsTQ2-Ad6cgNwKZ1qM75EatoR9lIM7RfSUFgr_ivAgtZbPrLd1chL2iahdoDJ4nKEiD5UOP6E2U70drSPNTA2pQMPA3wXbLyyu-TGxR81XnI6Af-TC7STUTN4ANA=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /> Love to all. Pray for peace or light a candle or hold a good thought or a thousand. Be the light, be the love. <p></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-25604075805233426882022-02-08T14:27:00.001-08:002022-02-08T14:27:22.129-08:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_IaCLeLXK0JJWHoePYpniasn7-h5OaCC_X8AUrQLWUrjV0tn2WKFvE7RaW5Hqszivqu-XcPaEd2iuorMAbe7f5ONUVuOe-m5LWWVXcdPUaumhotN8EhH7HMPykCO73eGF5WTz3OIGWFzmV9rq9O2T0E1vnNaJaxt69nybDX8zPJdn81pgPVQ_G_tPbg=s1333" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1333" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_IaCLeLXK0JJWHoePYpniasn7-h5OaCC_X8AUrQLWUrjV0tn2WKFvE7RaW5Hqszivqu-XcPaEd2iuorMAbe7f5ONUVuOe-m5LWWVXcdPUaumhotN8EhH7HMPykCO73eGF5WTz3OIGWFzmV9rq9O2T0E1vnNaJaxt69nybDX8zPJdn81pgPVQ_G_tPbg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgVAN8IIvuzAxVUO2-9KEkL4324fe6AqmjgpYArZlVKp8NULt8xjQoeEuELHzBnfwqKkJle4uYdR6uhOzBo8Ka-PPZwgdQEM1FoAuwheAOAqJoO5kKdA6cOUdC770C6v4OTnxJuQz6vjgpCiRTHpy7kiUti67zAtJPy0RTYQn8w7weT2-0ZSyrQWg1jw=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgVAN8IIvuzAxVUO2-9KEkL4324fe6AqmjgpYArZlVKp8NULt8xjQoeEuELHzBnfwqKkJle4uYdR6uhOzBo8Ka-PPZwgdQEM1FoAuwheAOAqJoO5kKdA6cOUdC770C6v4OTnxJuQz6vjgpCiRTHpy7kiUti67zAtJPy0RTYQn8w7weT2-0ZSyrQWg1jw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-50007679464691088992022-01-19T21:52:00.003-08:002022-01-19T21:52:50.147-08:00January is still here....<p> ... but the days are getting longer and the darkness doesn't come to the end of the day until almost 5:00. It feels nice to end my day at 5 in the shop and still have some daylight lingering about. I moved some of my bead things into the dining room in the house when we had all the snowy weather and now I can not seem to see how I did without this work station before. No more traipsing out to the studio in the cold or rain after way dark. I can plug in my iPad and watch old television shows and bead at the dining table. It's a good thing because not only do I make jewelry but I also can string up and prepare the many new beads arriving into the shop. This little work area helps me get the new treasures into the shop so much faster. </p><p>In other news, we are sometimes open on Wednesdays now so if you are heading into Port Townsend, give us a call to make sure we are in. Port Townsend is pretty sleepy this time of the year but you will still find lots of people downtown. </p><p>I will be in the shop this weekend and working on catching up on repair work. I am so grateful that people are patient with me as my time to get repairs done is short. It is marvelous though, to restore a treasured piece and get it back to someone to see their face light up with delight in being able to once again wear a favorite earring or heirloom piece of jewelry. </p><p>Now I do need to repair some of my own pieces and that is going to be happening soon. Very soon. See you soon too around the shop. </p><p>PS - I may not be teaching classes during the pandemic but I am still very happy to help you at the shop's counter. You'd be shocked at what I can teach or demo between customers!</p><p>As always, keep your mask on in the shop so this @#$%^& pandemic can get all the help it needs to go away. Heart. Heart. Lois</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-1837156144273845592021-12-27T14:32:00.003-08:002021-12-27T14:32:36.939-08:00Endings and Beginnings<p> <span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"> Today is the 27th of December, 2021 and in just a few more days this year goes away. Bye bye. I am choosing to look forward with optimism and hope for 2022. Hope that the pandemic is ending, hope that I can eat out on a restaurant and not fear getting sick, hope that I can hug people again, hope that we can gather to celebrate, rejoice in each other and in a few cases, mourn. </span></p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">I am writing this even as I try to figure out the brand new laptop my family gave me last Christmas. I keep it charged but this is only the third time I have had it opened and on. Hallelujah!</p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">This extremely, unusually frozen, snow covered day has me stuck in the house. I am also stuck in the driveway. Don't get me wrong, I love snow but in the rush to wrap up Christmas business in my shop, we neglected to get out the snow shovel from the far back garden shed or purchase deicer. Oh, well. Sometimes nature says, take a break and I am responding whole heartedly to that nudge. </p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">I will get the bead shop open as soon as I can move about. Right now it is too icy with<br />snow covered ice at that, to even walk out to the studio. Hence, I was bored and decided to actually use this lap top. </p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"> Wishing you all a very happy, healthy, loving, joyful 2022. See you all soon whether it is in the shop or on line. Much love and gratitude to all of you for making my life exactly what I wanted it to be these last 30 years. Making things, selling things, spreading beauty and craftiness, encouragement and love to all of you while basking in the world of all things bead and yarn and fabric and... </p><p style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe4L1dWwHDlU_5xhYGzv-rfKf3Y3TYaIr5zxzKmCzBY1j-jt1ulyeLEPlxTQO_iDctiM23d0MbQ8CMzlqyhih8BrKvxnpRVSIbNt_uKHCP7Jq7SDLxofm7nQ6ndTsle5VdVYZ_JoidGcV8ntEC_vPYNN8IcBQb3jbi9VFJ49ZcmVkbjC0wKJ6t-h3oHA=s1333" imageanchor="1" style="color: #6699cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1333" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe4L1dWwHDlU_5xhYGzv-rfKf3Y3TYaIr5zxzKmCzBY1j-jt1ulyeLEPlxTQO_iDctiM23d0MbQ8CMzlqyhih8BrKvxnpRVSIbNt_uKHCP7Jq7SDLxofm7nQ6ndTsle5VdVYZ_JoidGcV8ntEC_vPYNN8IcBQb3jbi9VFJ49ZcmVkbjC0wKJ6t-h3oHA=s320" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-align: center;">Chakra bells for harmony and peace. </div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-17681861968618254922021-11-14T18:24:00.001-08:002021-11-14T18:24:17.897-08:00finally!<p> For Christmas last year, Jacob and my husband got together and bought me a new laptop. I have charged it off and on this entire year but tonight, November 14th, 2021, I am trying to use it! There is much I do not understand and anyone who knows me will tell you that I do not like to learn new technology. I sense a bit of a long road ahead of me as I start to navigate this new laptop which of course had updates waiting for me. Sigh... eye roll. </p><p>I want to post here more often and that is my end of year goal and one I will carry forward into 2022. In the meantime, I am grateful to be in the shop, working, and playing 5 days a week. I missed retail! Hopefully, the pandemic will evolve into an endemic and we can all get back to a more normal version of life without shutdowns. So dear reader, as was said on Bridgerton, I will get back to you, stay tuned and see you on line or in the shop. Much love and happy beading! </p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-58925506755346832722021-07-07T18:40:00.001-07:002021-07-07T18:40:23.305-07:00Oops! Oops!<p> I posted the bead shop's blog post on my yarn shop's blog page! ( diva yarn.blogspot.com ) and of course, I promptly deleted it. I am going to write another post soon and update you on all that is going on and there is a lot happening! Stay tuned! </p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-78734795583343710932021-06-09T15:39:00.002-07:002021-06-09T15:39:52.915-07:00June - A Lovely Month<p> It is a pretty June in the bead shop with new inventory arriving and lots of color blooming in store with the arrival of new beads. </p><p>Just in are the MIYUKI size 15s in the matted glaze colors. I adore these colors! The first bunch sold out in a couple of days and now, we have all the colors! Of course, I always want ALL the colors in every bead. </p><p>We are continuing to be open Thursday through Monday, 11-5, with Sundays being a short day, 12 -4. Check with me regularly and I will see if hours will extend as we move further into summer.</p><p>I am going to keep this brief as a tub of miscellaneous bamboo beads arrived last week and I am going to begin to string some up this afternoon in the studio on my day " off." Watch for their appearance in the shop and on FB and Instagram. </p><p>In the meantime, here are a few pictures for your viewing pleasure. So long for now my beady friends! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXDtb7JrdC5tqhN3w_lyO5KHDNlv9tBqNxmXFlACiprhZAWTJ-2Qn7U7ZaqK80Leovdtyejnzc6zAMV8O1cOQU0Ja0bBmbzJI7rgmj3b5uagbgRD1W-W1kvj0sVa9aYriF4E0ziF8hXu5/s2048/IMG_6037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXDtb7JrdC5tqhN3w_lyO5KHDNlv9tBqNxmXFlACiprhZAWTJ-2Qn7U7ZaqK80Leovdtyejnzc6zAMV8O1cOQU0Ja0bBmbzJI7rgmj3b5uagbgRD1W-W1kvj0sVa9aYriF4E0ziF8hXu5/s320/IMG_6037.jpg" /></a>This little shore bird was out for a stroll on the sidewalk! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yesterday's beautiful sky with impressive clouds.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGIHpm1bdDFSiX8Twri1rUekydKJ6c3IVnnL98NulM6cP5jUrm93PafycLi4aTsZ8amur6E67rIuRi-neb3Ajgo0Uq7RQyuydhy4MXKjZPlWxZZXZe_aMlFBC6K-Dt-kYXxU8yDlzDE3k/s2048/IMG_6052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGIHpm1bdDFSiX8Twri1rUekydKJ6c3IVnnL98NulM6cP5jUrm93PafycLi4aTsZ8amur6E67rIuRi-neb3Ajgo0Uq7RQyuydhy4MXKjZPlWxZZXZe_aMlFBC6K-Dt-kYXxU8yDlzDE3k/s320/IMG_6052.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKUz4yOKWYHYUnINauaMS10v9wFEZrJ7j7XWrvxwns5pwVmEdeBwFBSDDVu_BOeZMYbjeuak9vJfeFka88LKUBFjEIxUpnwympGo9lV9R6KdzO5OjQUl8YyM2lAADUDwqNCn4nV0EBoPz/s1124/174597194_10158469164068323_6701422842433598777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="843" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKUz4yOKWYHYUnINauaMS10v9wFEZrJ7j7XWrvxwns5pwVmEdeBwFBSDDVu_BOeZMYbjeuak9vJfeFka88LKUBFjEIxUpnwympGo9lV9R6KdzO5OjQUl8YyM2lAADUDwqNCn4nV0EBoPz/s320/174597194_10158469164068323_6701422842433598777_n.jpg" /></a>The shop counter across from the sales desk. </div><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-79850655741908697702021-05-08T10:25:00.001-07:002021-05-08T10:25:47.092-07:00A New Way<p> It is nearly Memorial Day and I am thinking summer is soon to begin. I have potatoes planted in the garden, birds nesting low on the ground in my lusciously purple lavender plants and a dog who just loves to be outside all the time when the sun is shining. He likes to bake his black fur in the sun until it is so hot, you can not actually touch him! </p><p>While we have not returned yet to an extension of the shop hours or the opening of our classroom gem room or the warehouse; I am thinking about it. I hope you will check back often and let me know what you are thinking. Of course, if two if us are working the shop, one can always take you upstairs to the classroom.</p><p>I do not have much more to say here. This is the laptop I received from my family for this past Christmas and I am just using it for the first time. I finally took it out of the box just this past Wednesday! I was driving everyone a bit to the edge having the box just sitting on a chair in the dining room. I did dust around it! </p><p>Anyhow, I hope to get better at using it and keeping pictures here so I can post more often. Thanks for popping in. See you soon! xo</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-41048218923922126972021-04-27T21:11:00.006-07:002021-04-27T21:11:50.633-07:00<p> I Honestly do not know what has happened to my blog. Somewhere out there in the wide, wide cyberspace of the internet; floats my blog postings from 2021. I will be better about checking in and writing. I like to write and will add it into my studio time. It is crazy here at the office with minimal internet service through the phone company. Oh well. Not much of a choice here. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTci-u7yZdRA4ZYoAZDDsawWB0IC42qwOsuec4FY_CK7x48ld6ikknoCRDPWbnM68GApFAw6uN6OBhP9DjKCSNd7AV4qwKCv06r6XsT1WOHxlYRqrJ1_fIEvnUYL5EsZLx3qOb_E4usc0/s2048/IMG_5490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTci-u7yZdRA4ZYoAZDDsawWB0IC42qwOsuec4FY_CK7x48ld6ikknoCRDPWbnM68GApFAw6uN6OBhP9DjKCSNd7AV4qwKCv06r6XsT1WOHxlYRqrJ1_fIEvnUYL5EsZLx3qOb_E4usc0/s320/IMG_5490.jpg" /></a>So this is me still selling beads. making jewelry and silver smithing 30 years later. The shop is having a big birthday this year! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggofoceS9M8qJaeLiFkMgUm65TV6j2Ok66zbVska7Bld8tDRR7wK074dakbiujjw9dR-TK5I1T_MmogkgRrGoOePQbJkaz1Q6EbZWnQrfXtMSnWkb8kXTyRfLuHYZmGUVGWH4QKFWBxQiT/s2048/IMG_5435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1582" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggofoceS9M8qJaeLiFkMgUm65TV6j2Ok66zbVska7Bld8tDRR7wK074dakbiujjw9dR-TK5I1T_MmogkgRrGoOePQbJkaz1Q6EbZWnQrfXtMSnWkb8kXTyRfLuHYZmGUVGWH4QKFWBxQiT/s320/IMG_5435.jpg" width="320" /></a>This is the location of my first solo retail location, The Lewis Building at 630 Water Street. I was the back left corner and partnered with Gary and Jack who owned the business in the front of the building. What an adventure. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">More later! </div><br /><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-7850767942380690122021-04-27T20:58:00.002-07:002021-04-27T20:58:17.247-07:00<p> I have been posting faithfully on this blog for months now into 2021 and can not find any of those posts!!! What has happened? Help?|! I am lost!</p><p><br /></p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-84955408899129042662020-10-06T22:30:00.003-07:002020-10-06T22:30:58.458-07:00Of Chaos and Autumn<p>Thinking of all of you tonight as my mind tries to make sense of all that is happening in the US today. It is exhausting mentally. I had to take a break, so off to the park we went for a quick walk. This is likely the last day of nearly 70 degree weather until next spring unless climate change raises its ugly head and does something dramatic. Geez, I hope not. How is it out your way? In my heart, I am keeping all my family, friends, customers, and fellow crafters close, rejoicing in your friendship and thoroughly enjoying all the postings of what you are making and doing. Trying to find the beauty in the world today while creating a bit of it with my work is such a delight and blessing. I feel welcoming and loving to all. It is kindness and love that does make the world and the neighborhood go round. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWg9wCM2K2XEgPW3j7pD9rt4uIBcAth85vP3ZlgADLPUxKYnOgkxclhq8F9Fl2JC9vGWJNHII-JDKl6bb9qAlhpaFdv7CW9SymOoPEVdqoBOhkKnNu2V4ig4P0MIsD-g40KZ7eK04Maps2/s3244/P1050661-PANO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1641" data-original-width="3244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWg9wCM2K2XEgPW3j7pD9rt4uIBcAth85vP3ZlgADLPUxKYnOgkxclhq8F9Fl2JC9vGWJNHII-JDKl6bb9qAlhpaFdv7CW9SymOoPEVdqoBOhkKnNu2V4ig4P0MIsD-g40KZ7eK04Maps2/s320/P1050661-PANO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>So for tonight, I leave you with this peaceful image of local waters and a deep breath to once again rise and believe in love, peace, happiness, and kindness. Sweet dreams.</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6740091144963365699.post-24176050673673829412020-09-19T10:37:00.003-07:002020-09-19T10:37:58.380-07:00Changes<p> Fall officially begins on Tuesday and I am ready. Ready for some change! Fresh air. Rain. Wind. No fires. Fall colors. Creativity bursting as our days get quieter and we spend the evenings at home making things. Feeling inspired. Beginning fall projects that can even turn into holiday gifts.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmQz1RffSYj5omGQBnTcKTZy1OuZdg2SLjQBANxYw_9wD-fmxRDUrADzLpmCEtCk_B5RARwG0YSvh0RBK8ZL0Rm2Vskyg9GtA_IL46xNdKZmwVOrECf0rWEfgEtzn3SnKp1haoApOopOw/s259/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmQz1RffSYj5omGQBnTcKTZy1OuZdg2SLjQBANxYw_9wD-fmxRDUrADzLpmCEtCk_B5RARwG0YSvh0RBK8ZL0Rm2Vskyg9GtA_IL46xNdKZmwVOrECf0rWEfgEtzn3SnKp1haoApOopOw/s0/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p>This is my favorite time of the year. The days have cooled off and now I can hold larger crochet and knitting projects on my lap and not feel as if I am in a sauna! I can turn the oven on and make pies with all the leftover summer fruits. In a few days, I will trim back and put my garden to bed for the winter. There is only a small project or two left to finish. Evenings will find me in front of netflix in the house, working on new drawings or needlepointing or in the studio working with beads or in the metal house using the kiln and working in silver. Maybe this is the year I will add a rolling mill to my collection of tools. </p><p>The shop is open 5 days a week and I am your girl on the spot. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 to 5, Sundays 12 to 5, and Mondays 11-5. We are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Appointments might be available then, however, especially if you are coming from a distance. </p><p>Anyhow, more news and updates later. Happy Fall and be well! Shop beads!!</p>charmsbyloishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04626577216759904429noreply@blogger.com0