TREE OF LIFE - COMPLETED, PLUS ONE MORE

After a day of shopping with my daughter and dinner, I was back to the pendant. The pictures show the pendant part way into the process of making the branches before I left to do my part for the economy :). The project is now complete and the pictures show the back and front views. I had a vision in my head, and although this isn't quite what my vision was, I think it's a good first attempt. I'd like to try another and try to keep it a little less busy. Also, I need to balance the size of the tree with the size of the frame. Those are my thoughts for now. If you would like to comment, please do. Constructive criticism is welcome and an important part of the learning process. I hope you enjoyed the project and will try one yourself. Thanks for coming. Anita

P.S. I am adding on one more pendant I did without the bling. Tell me what you think! Anita

Tree of Life Pendant - a work in progress

Today I decided to attempt a Tree of Life pendant. I love the concept and think they are beautiful. I started out by making a square from 16 gauge brass wire, which I shaped and hammered. The join is at the bottom. At that point, I cut several pieces of 20 gauge copper wire to create the tree. I started wrapping at the join side, three wraps, one limb, one wrap, one limb, three wraps, one limb, one wrap, etc. and worked across the bottom. I had some trouble getting around the join, but put some extra wraps there and I think it will hold, then continued my pattern. I then twisted, straightened, twisted, straightened some more to create the trunk. I have straighted the wires and put them in order and am now at the point of attaching the other side. A picture is attached and I will add more when I finish it. I have some ideas swirling around in my head to complete it, but still not sure. If anyone knows the person's name who created the FIRST Tree of Life pendant, I would love to give the appropriate credit. Thanks for looking. Anita

PET JEWELRY

I was talking to my cousin Patti today about my jewelry business and she told me that one thing that always sells, good times or bad, is something for your children or something for your pet. So, I'd really like your feedback on this. Being a pet owner and a grandma, I wouldn't mind putting together a jewelry collection for dogs and cats or children...maybe even both. But I want to find out what sells...I need to know what people would look for to adorn their pets. I know that the small children love the Cinderella-type bling, so that shouldn't be too hard. I spent some time on the internet looking at what other people design for their pet lines, but nothing really jumped out at me. So, all you pet owners, what kinds of bling would you like to see your special kitty or pup wearing? This could be fun. Thanks....Anita

RUM PUNCH VILLA

Are you looking for the perfect get-a-way, with your own spot on the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean? Check out Rum PunchVilla. Rum Punch is located on the lovely island of Anguilla in the southern Caribbean. I cannot do it justice myself, so will leave that to their web site. The owners are my husband's brother Bruce, and his wife, Elaine. They have lived in the Caribbean for several years. Bruce has managed a villa on Anguilla for some time now, as well as several hotels throughout the Caribbean. The island of St. Maarten is only a 45 minute boat ride away. We will be vacationing there this year and can't wait to see the villa, but most importantly, can't wait for the family reunion. And...we will be joined by our daughters, their husbands, and our grandchildren.....it will truly be a family reunion to remember. Now, if I can just get back into those bathing suits from last summer!!! The following is the press release they shared with us:
RUM PUNCH VILLA ANGUILLA
Rum Punch Villa is ready to welcome Guests!
ANGUILLA, BWI, March 17, 2009
Rum Punch Villa, an exclusive new luxury property on Anguilla in the British West Indies, is ready to embrace and entertain guests. With expansive patios reaching out to the warm Caribbean breezes and island views, the 7,500 square foot villa is exquisitely outfitted for those wishing to spend quality time with family, cocoon with a loved one or entertain guests. The mesmerizing sound of crashing waves is a soothing backdrop for every airy room and patio. The sea air and stunning views of St. Martin and St. Barth will relax and rejuvenate guests in search of a serene respite from everyday life.
Contemporary furnishings in rich island colors complement the natural color palette of the surrounding landscape. Every window and door frames the sea and sky like a painting. Guests can step from bedroom to patio to private infinity pool in seconds — the ultimate island luxury. Several more steps off the patio is the villa’s small but secluded private beach, where guests can relax on a canopied four-poster beach lounge — a honeymooner’s dream.
Explore our "must visit" web site at www.rumpunchvilla.com to view more dramatic photographs that tell the Rum Punch story of gracious island living, perfect seclusion and nature in all its glory.
Book now for a signature Rum Punch Villa vacation. Though pictures are worth a thousand words, experiencing first hand is the only way to truly appreciate this elegant new property.
CONTACT:
Bruce or Elaine Hearn
Rum Punch Villa
(264)235-8840 or (264)235-2816
info@rumpunchvilla.com
www.rumpunchvilla.com

Playing For Change: Song Around the World "Stand By Me"

I HAD TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU...TURN OFF THE MUSIC AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG AND TURN UP YOUR VOLUME - this is worth hearing...Two young men went around the world getting street singers to all sing the same song, and then they dubbed them all together into one version of that song. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM&feature=email