Quote of the Month

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
Buddha


This is one of my favorite quotes. It's so true, and it's actually pretty funny. Most quotes about being thankful are clichéd or redundant...or just plain cheesy. But this one is different, and it makes me smile when I read it!


It's a little too easy to point out everything negative that is going on in your life. Perhaps you just had the worst day ever, or even just another mediocre one. But you are still around to talk about it...so it can't be that bad, right?



Gorgeous photos by Lupen Grainne of Honeytree Photography. http://www.etsy.com/shop/honeytree

Things I Love: Stone & Honey Agate Necklaces

These agate necklaces by Stone & Honey are such a unique and fabulous idea. I love the combination of delicate metal on top of stone, for it creates such a wonderful contrast. They have many stunning pieces, and here are a few of my favorites:




Since no two stones are alike, each piece is one of a kind. The combination of hand-cut pinwheel and honeycomb designs with colorful stone slices are sure to make a statement.
http://www.stoneandhoney.com/shop/

Behind the Scenes: Magnolia Blossom Necklace

Walking along Chicago's tree lined streets with my husband, I am inspired by the delicate blossoms on each tree. After a long winter, these blossoms are a welcome sight in my eyes! I decided to make a branch necklace with lovely blooming flowers, and I would like to share with you how I did it.

Some spring magnolia eye candy:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/AliciaBock

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Raceytay

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Raceytay

I always begin with a sketch to get my thoughts on paper:
Then, I move on to forming the sterling silver wire. I start on the branch, tapering two pieces of wire to a point. I solder the two together and proceed to each individual blossom.

The blossoms are made by hand forming "petals" and then soldering them together to make a flower. More stems are added to the original branch shape, and each flower is soldered into place.

After finishing and polishing to a high shine, the piece is then put on a double rolo chain and is ready to wear! The final product is the Magnolia Blossom Necklace, coming soon from LUCIUS Jewelry.