Hope's Closet Jewelry Designs

The beauty of winter

2010-01-08T09:51:00.000-08:00

I like to think that making jewelry is just one manifestation of my capacity for creativity and vision. I also strive for mindfulness and compassion every day. Some days are better than others. Yesterday I could not get warm, and by late afternoon I found myself in my bed, under the down comforter, with my blackberry for work and my cuddly little dog to keep me warm. Needless to say, it was not a very productive work environment, and I ended up not only cold but also depressed and disgusted with myself. So this morning, when I woke up and saw a fresh dusting of snow outside, and had no choice but to go out there to walk the dog, I looked around and noticed that the neighborhood was actually looking quite pretty and sparkly, with the early morning sunlight highlighting the white linings on the tree branches. So I decided that I should try to appreciate the beauty of the snow, even if I still struggle to acknowledge that there is anything positive about winter. I brought the dog back inside, grabbed my camera, and went out for a little walk, and tried to look at the winter landscape with the same eyes that saw the blue water in St. John. I will never love winter, but I think tolerance and acceptance are worthy goals.

Inspiration

2010-01-03T17:15:00.000-08:00

Today I found inspiration in all the usual places: my friends, my cozy home, and memories of a week in paradise. We went to St. John with friends, and of course I came back with a collection of little stones and shells from the beaches and a head full of design ideas inspired by the ubiquitous St. John petroglyph shape. Everything came together as I sat at my little work space, and the frigid January weather fell away. Soon I had completed two wire-wrapped pendants for Ilene, using the stones she had found on a St. John beach. Now she can wear them and remember our beautiful vacation. Here is a photo of the first two of what I hope will be a series of St. John-inspired pieces. And one of the place that sparked the creative fire today.

Are you happy now, Roia?

2010-01-02T06:08:00.000-08:00

OK, Roia, you've convinced me to set up my very own blog. Now what???

Maybe I should start by posting some photos of the jewelry designs I've been working on recently? And I guess I should post a link to my Hope's Closet Designs website, where everyone can look at other pieces I've made.

This is good for a start. Stay tuned for more information about me, my work, my designs, and all those other things my friend Roia says I should put in my blog!