Bead Candy

I dropped in at the bead shop yesterday afternoon. I was on my way to pick up the makings of a new kitchen cabinet. I needed silver crimps. I actually kept my note to self after my recent beading effort in the new studio. As I parked the car I was carefully rehearsing to myself, "silver crimps, silver crimps, silver crimps . . . " It's so easy to lose my head when I get into the shop amongst all the lovely sparkly things! When I walked in the door I was surprised to find I was the only customer. I'd expected the usual pre-Christmas rush, but luckily I landed in a lull. Since I had the full attention of the manager, my wish list came out--that's a mental wish list, so it has a tendency to be rather elastic. The main thing was different shaped (plastic) crystal drops to make beaded angels. The supply is variable, and I usually forget to stock up until it's Christmas time. Looking at those led to exploring other drop-shaped beads. I should have some crafting time next week, so I bought a few bits to play with. The photo records the fact that I did eventually make my way to the furniture shop. That made up in it's busyness for the quietness of the bead shop, but I did manage to get through my list of things. The makings of the kitchen cabinet are on the floor as I type--waiting for assembly. And yes, I did also remember to buy my silver crimps.

All that Glitters

I'm home for Christmas this year. That hardly ever happens. What's more I will have at least one guest young enough to enjoy the idea of decorating a Christmas tree. Last weekend I bought a tree: admittedly a small artificial one at a reduced price. Not really my first preference, but it got me going. The next question, where to start with decorations? I'm not really the tinsel type. What about a smooshy yarn with silver spangles? There just happened to be a bag of it in the clearance rack at the craft store: I've got lights. I've got silver baubles. I've been making beaded angels for years, so there are a few of those hanging around the house. They can go on the tree. I've got some glass DIY baubles too and glue and paint and glitter to pretty them up with. I think I have the makings of sparkly Christmas that's conventional enough to be easily recognised, and individual enough to make me happy too. Now to put it all together over the next few days.