Memorial Day 2010

Take time today--amid the BBQs and family gatherings--to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day.  Take time to appreciate why our young men and women go into battle.  Take time to thank our military for loving the freedom we too often take for granted.  Take time to comprehend the sacrifice that so many Americans have made and continue to make.

For myself I thank every American who has served for your willingness to stand tall and proud for your country and mine.  And for your willingness to give your life if necessary.  You are true American heros.

(The picture is of Arlington National Cemetry.)

Tornado Bead Earring Class

Learn to make these fanciful earrings this Friday May 28 at 11 a.m. at the Garden of Beaden in Upland.  The class includes making the bronze ball-end headpins and earwires.

I can do anything better than anyone!

Ok, I'll bet you've seen Jessica on YouTube, don't you think we all need a heaping dose of her optimism and can-do spirit.  Repeat with me "I CAN DO ANYTHING BETTER THAN ANYONE!"

Relay For Life

A organization that I am passionate about is the American Cancer Society. For the past five years I have either been on a team or on the Planning Committee for the Upland Relay. I have had two very good friends die from this terrible disease...like so many other relayers I relay so one day, in the near future, no one will hear the dreaded "you have cancer".  Join the movement for more birthdays...checkout a Relay in your area at http://www.relayforlife.org/.

Labels...What's Yours

Tara at Scoutie Girl asked "Labels What's Yours?" (http://www.scoutiegirl.com/2010/05/labels-whats-yours-we-scout-wednesday.html) today.  Funny...I have been thinking alot about this lately.  At my Etsy site I am using the label "Metalsmith" and I am conflicted as to whether I deserve this label.  I look at the work of other metalsmiths and know that I have a lot to learn.  And in fact when I am around "real" metalsmiths I do not use the label.  However, I am finding that by calling myself a metalsmith (because this is what I want to be) it encourages me to just do it and conquer my fear of metalsmithing techniques...like torches and saws and drills.

The pomegranates are in bloom...

and I'm dreaming of jelly.  Some of my favorite gifts for friends and relatives are homemade jellies and marmalades.  So I love seeing lots of blooms on the bush cuz I know there will be lots of jelly for Christmas.

Aren't  the flowers lovely too...such a warm shade of red.