A Blow

I was just informed that my last day of work will be August 6, unless I want to move to Ohio. They really want someone in the office there, and with the new computer system coming online (that I don't know) I can't say I blame them.

But it really sucks. I will be unemployed in 3 weeks.

Pearl Knotting

So my pearl knotting class ROCKED! I really enjoyed it, and ended up with (what I think) is a pretty cool necklace. I had no idea that pearl knotting is a technique that could be transferred to so many different areas of jewelry making!

I have signed up for an open studio session at the place I'm taking the classes. That means I get expert help from the staff, fun women to sit and bead with, and the use of all their awesome tools (which means I don't have to buy them!!) I'm really enjoying this!

In other news, I apparently have bursitis in my hip. It's what has been causing me pain for the past year or so. I'm on heavy doses of steroids to help reduce the inflammation, and if that doesn't work I'll need an MRI to map the problem and a cortisone injection directly into the hip. Ouch. Here's hoping the steroids work!

Jewelry Hobby

Because I have so much spare time, I decided to take a couple of jewelry making classes. Last night's class was "Say It On Your Wrist." It taught us how to make stamped jewelry - bracelets, pendants for necklaces, whatever you can imagine.

We practiced on copper, but the final pieces were sterling silver. You simply spell out what you want to say and use a hammer to stamp in the letters. A bit of antiquing to make the letters stand out, and you have a beautiful, unique piece of jewelry.

I made three things. A bracelet for me that says "Magic finds you if you let it." A bracelet for Kendra with her name, birthdate and a couple of paw prints, and a necklace for me with Kendra's name and birthstone.

Tonight I have a class on pearl knotting!