Maritime Knot

I am still trying to perfect by knotting techniques.  I found this video on You Tube from Paper-Source which I think is pretty cool.  Another option to add to your box of tricks.  

Keep Creating,

Karen

Memorial Day

I never really talk much about being a Veteran or what that means to me and I'm not going to do that now.

 I do want to say thank you to all the Active Military who are serving around the world in order to keep our great nation safe.   People don't really think much about the preservation of their rights but they sure do want to speak out about them. Get what I'm saying. 

 Anyway once again, for the many soldiers who served before and after me -- THANK YOU!! 

 As a woman Vet and a Daughter of the American Revolution -- THANK YOU!! 

 As a citizen of the country that remains FREE -- THANK YOU!!

To the families who stand behind the troops -- THANK YOU!!

To the many soldiers who never made it back home -- 

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU

Cuddly Quilt

This quilt was created by Anna Martinez in Taos, NM

Cuddly flannel quilt

Redish-pink & Polka Dots
(the fabric is closer to red than pink but my photo doesn't do it justice)

Bright colors and playful patterns

Machine quilting adds character

Available at Fairies Market

Keep Creating,

Karen

What Are YOU Doing?

Today we made a commitment to do something to improve things around us.  Alfred and I are always talking about "doing" but sometimes R & R, work or life takes over.  We walked down the road and picked up quite a bit of trash.  Before we knew it we had two large trash bags full.  We have another section to do this week.  It was a small gesture to try to make a small change in our community.  

Tell us what you are doing to spread the LOVE.  This world is a vast gift of beauty.  What are you doing to improve things in your world?

Katrina, Riley (our dog) and I also went on a nice long walk.  Again trying to "do" instead of just talking about doing.  Have a good week.

Keep Creating,

Karen

Sky Over New Mexico

Taos Mountain

This weekend I traveled to Taos to see my mother and on the way up I took these pictures using my Nokia Lumia.  This majestic landscape draws in people from around the world.

I was captivated by the beauty of the clouds in the blue sky.  On Friday the weather was calm and the scenery was breathtaking.  The snow capped Pueblo Peak in the distance is part of the Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) Mountain range which is the southern tip of the Rocky Mountains.  You can also see the mouth of the Rio Grande Gorge, if you look closely.  

Taos is a great place to explore nature, art, local culture and history.    
    

AWESOME BEAUTY.

Gorge of the Rio Grande

Transformation

Jewelry designers take beads, findings, wire, string, ribbon, jewels and many other materials and transform them into beautiful pieces of art. Many of these artists develop their skills through tutorials, classes, books and other methods. Their skills and self-confidence allow them to propel instead of freezing in their tracks.

When I stop creating I know it's time for some soul searching. Sometimes I don't like what I see (behind my eyes) but usually new ideas emerge. If I'm lucky I'm pushed towards productivity.

The act of creating gives us a sense of acceptance. In today's society the internet helps us to reach out to others and make valuable transactions, important decisions and friends.   When I ask myself what it is I like about jewelry making and art and crafts the answer is never the same. One thing that remains consistent is that it brings a sense of community, whether with strangers, friends or family.

 

TO CREATE IS TO TRANSFORM LIFE

 

 

Pinocean

Debbie Crothers



Spirited Earth

 





Menka's Jewelry





Created by Laurie



 

 

Keep Creating,

Karen

Fashion Forward

Prabal Gurung

Nicholas Kirkwood

Marni Brooch

Rochas

Eddie Borgo

Gown by Valli

Beautiful clothes and accessories from

Moda Operandi

Create & Then Create Some More

I buy a lot of beads & findings but don't always put them to good use, they're safely tucked away in my stash.  I am sharing some of the bracelets I've made over the past few months.  I am using this board as a testimonial that I will begin to make jewelry much more consistently instead of safely stashing pretty things away.  

 

Support

Heart Chakra

Strawberry Fields

Black Lace

Lets ALL Keep Creating,

Karen

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

On May 5, 1862, in the town of Puebla, the outnumbered Mexican army defeated the French Army.  Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of freedom and culture.

Today there will fiestas across the country offering cultural foods, mariachi music, colorful costumes and fun for everyone.  Take in the sights and sounds in your neighborhood and share what you are doing for Cinco de Mayo.  

My mother, youngest daughter and i are spending the day together.  We will make some traditional foods; tortillas, red and green chili enchiladas, salsa and sweet rice.  

My daughter is heading back to S. Dakota for college so she has to get her fill of home cooked food.  Plus she and her grandmother have plans to share recipes, patterns and crafty projects.  Today is also my brother-in-laws birthday; Feliz Cumpleanos Walt!!

Have a wonderful day!!  Feliz Cinco de Mayo!!

Shop Feature

This week my friend Laurie is featuring Fairies Market on her blog Created by Laurie.  I am offering everyone a chance to win a jewelry set.  Please stop by Laurie's blog and also participate in the MEET & GREET blog hop.

Keep Creating,

Karen