Crafty Friends

Over the years, I have met all sorts of people as a result of my personal interest in jewelry making and blogging.  These experiences have been an absolute joy.  The one pleasure I derive from jewelry making and blogging is the time afterwards when I read comments and I have the chance to reflect and communicate with others. Although I don't get a whole lot of comments left on my blog--yet. I enjoy learning about what folks are creating through our mutual enthusiasm.

A few of my experiences as a jewelry maker/blogger have even turned out to be the means that lead to unexpected and lasting friendships.  BONUS!  I've participated in some blog hops and had a great time meeting others.  Link Parties are great ways to connect with people who have similar interests as you; motivational, green living, travel, cultural events..you name it there's a link up for you.

Several of my beading buddies have been busy while I've been "elsewhere".  There are some great blog hops going on out there.  I always enjoy reading the posts and seeing all pretty handmade crafts.

One of my favorite sites is Toltec Jewels for Jewel School Friends.  Unfortunately I wasn't able to participate in this cool hop but I am a regular follower of this blog.

Check out the first annual challenge at Beadrecipes - I'm sure you'll find inspiration with every click.

This blog post wouldn't be complete if I didn't mention Earrings Everyday and the great monthly challenges posted there.  If you're looking for a creative jewelry challenge I encourage you to participate in the We're All Ears challenge to make earrings inspired by a specific picture/post, all you have to do is write a post on your blog and add your link.  This month's deadline is Friday, August 15th so you better get to it!

A Garden of Threads blog is one of my favorites.  Jen takes the most beautiful photos and shares wonderful stories about her life and her interests.  She was nice enough to lend me a photo of one of her quilts (thanks!)-isn't it beautiful!  Jen inspires me with her quilts and photography.  I admire that she is comfortable with who she is and what she loves and she shares that with all of us.  You've got to check out the quilts on her blog, they are a true display of craftsmanship.

The truth is that I never know where my passion for jewelry making and blogging will take me. It’s a solitary act that has brought me closer to people in ways I could not have imagined.  I’ve also learned a lot about myself and what inspires me to continue on this blogging journey.

I want you to think about the person-to-person connections that you've made as a result of your experiences as a blogger.  Please post a comment and share your experience.  Your opinion matters to me.

Take some time to stop by the blogs listed above and leave a note saying ‘HELLO’.  

Keep Creating,

Karen