Thank you Chris Thompson!

I wanted this project to be a challenge, so that it would mean something.  This whole idea was our "nod" to Chris Thompson who had the amazing idea to do the 1000 Bowls to Feed the Hungry.  I mean really, what a great idea he had.  So, to my surprise, Chris walked into the shop this week and told me how thrilled he was to see us doing this project.  His hope was that the bowl project would inspire others to do something similar and to "pay it forward" so to speak.  I had a great time talking with Chris, he's such a talented artist to begin with, and such an inspiration to talk to about working through set backs and all the other challenges I am going to face with this.  I was looking for a sign from the universe that I should go on with this project and not quit... and the universe sent me Chris.  Thank you Chris, your words meant the world to me.

Ok, so the first 5 necklaces were made by a very special person, and probably the youngest of the people who has asked to help us do this.  It's my daughter, Kristin.  She really wanted to make some of the pieces that will be sold, and I was very proud of her designs.  I loved beading with her, and hopefully we'll have more to show soon.  After the first 5, there are 10 new ones that I made.  I will also be posting more tomorrow after I get some decent pictures of the super new ones.  I had a lovely customer named Andrea come in today and help me with a couple of necklaces in the shop.  She did a great job, it helps that she has great taste and makes pretty jewelry!  Thanks Andrea!

Forgot to mention that the date for the sale has been changed.  After much consideration and deliberation, I have decided that we will do the sale of these necklaces in July of 2014.  The issue of having enough necklaces done was one thing, but the larger problem was finding a gallery to help us sell them.  With the sale at a much slower time of the year for the galleries, it'll make it easier to work out the details and get a great gallery or two on board.  As of right now, I have two galleries that are interested and we're currently working out the details.  As soon as I know for sure, I'll post it here!
Enjoy the necklaces!

Czech glass, Glass Pearls and lampwork bead by Becki Meckier

(Kristin)

Dyed Quartz, Czech glass and crystal

(Kristin)

Freshwater Pearls, Black Onyx and Abalone

(Kristin)

Assorted Czech Glass and Freshwater Pearls

(Kristin)

Black Onyx, Freshwater Pearls and Crystal

(Kristin)

Recycled Sea Glass and Freshwater Pearls

Crystals and Freshwater Pearls

Lampwork by Della Armstrong with Freshwater Pearls

Agate bicones with Black Labradorite and Freshwater Pearls

Chinese Crystal with lampwork discs by Becki Meckier and Freshwater Pearls

Magnesite with Coral and Pewter

Recycled Sea Glass with Dyed Blue Quartz

Lampwork bead by Nanette Young Greiner with pewter rings, Freshwater Pearls and crystals

Amethyst with lampwork beads

Freshwater Pearls with crystals and lampwork bead