Landslide

The song "Landslide" really stirs up memories for me. Every time I hear it I think of the many times I would go get hay for the horses when we had the farm in Port Colborne. We rented the loft in a nearby barn to store our hay each year and every day or two I would drive over and fill the back of my pick up truck with bales to feed the horses at the barn. I am not sure what version of the song was out of the time (Smashing Pumpkins maybe?) but I recall often hearing it on the radio while going to get hay.  It brings me right back to those days. Married to a different man and very much leading a different life. I can picture my red F150 truck and I can even smell the hay! Usually I don't miss my old life but sometimes there is a tiny place deep down inside that does...

My own worst enemy

Sometimes I think I am my own worst enemy. On the outside I am told I appear cool, confident and outgoing. Inside however, I am really hard on myself. Always quick to remind myself of my short comings and when things aren't going as planned I am a champion of installing self doubt!
This is something that I have known forever but am really going to try and change. I think it holds me back on so many levels both personally and professionally.
Today is a new day and a new chance to work on improving things that I am unhappy with.
It was also a great day to create something pretty in the studio.
This is the Honey Bee bracelet. What do you think of it?

Chill in the Air

This is my favourite time of year, weather-wise. I like a little chill in the air. I like wool socks and sweaters. I like the crisp smell of the air.
My only wish is that winter wasn't right around the corner...This year I am trying a new approach to winter. I am going to stop dwelling on my dislike of it. I am going to think of a positive thing every day (how pretty the snow looks, how fun it is to throw a snowball) and try to make the most of it this time. No point in dwelling on what you cannot change.
Enough weather talk I suppose.
So for the past year I have been making more of a vintage style jewellery. I like the glitter of vintage glass and I love how pretty the earrings are in this style. It's lots of fun getting new supplies for it as well.  What do you think?

Good News

Yesterday I got some really good news. My Mom has been sick for a long time. She's the kind of woman that doesn't tell us what's fully going on. And on top of that she is Scottish so she's inherently good at digging her heels in. If she doesn't want to tell you something, you wont hear it from her. So, we have been left to wonder. It is obvious that she is sick and it seems to be getting worse but from what, we never knew and how bad was also a mystery. About ten days ago she called me and finally said that the doctors figured her cancer was back. So for ten days and nights I have been worried sick. Getting up in the middle of the night, walking around with a dark cloud over me, meditating my heart out and trying to stay positive. I can only imagine the hell she was going through. I tried to cheer her up everyday but some days she wouldn't even talk. In any event, yesterday we got great news. After a colonoscopy and a scope...no cancer has been found! Of course we still need to find out what is making her feel so terrible but cancer it is not. To that I say...SUCK IT CANCER

I am Paige.

Mother of Piper. Wife of Bob. Maker of jewellery. Dreamer. Writer. Yogi. Meditator. Drinker of Coffee. Cracker of jokes. Eater of too many sweets. Watcher of too much reality TV. Friend. Confidant. Sister. Daughter. Aunt. Big Idea Maker. Happy person. Positive person. Girl with low self esteem. Rider of Tempest. Cuddler of Levi. Mauler of Manuel. I am Paige.

Power of Meditation

About a year and a half ago I started meditating. At first I thought it was a bit hokey and wasn't sure it was for me. Before I knew it though, I began to fall in love with it. There is something to be said about completely relaxing and giving your mind a chance to slow down. I have done group meditation a few times but really prefer to do it alone. I have found several resources online (I really like The Honest Guys and The Chopra Centre) for free guided meditations and have discovered that there are ones for nearly anything that life will throw at you. Yesterday I got some bad news. It's not something that is going to go away or get better in time. It's something I have to face head on and find mental strength to survive it. Today's meditation was really hard to fall into. My mind simply didn't want to relax although I desperately needed a break. I am glad that I stuck with it as it did, as it always has done, helped me so much. the next few months, maybe years, are going to be hard. There will be lots of meditating. Meditation over Medication I guess... (image credit: baubauhaus.com)

Schedule Struggles

Lately I have really been battling within myself. I am not satisfied with how I am using my time but I think I have to let it play out before I go making changes. I guess what I am lacking is time for myself (like most parents). My husband is a kind and loving guy but he works a lot which often leaves me feeling like a single Mom. I would love to have more time to ride my horse and do yoga. I get how selfish this all sounds but it really bothers me every day. It seems like mission impossible to just get out and get my hair done. I feel like every moment is scheduled and when I have down time it's when I cant go anywhere! Gahhh. In most situations I love my life and am grateful. Today I am feeling sorry for myself.

Old Buildings

I have always had a soft spot for old buildings. When I see a really old house or barn or factory, my heart quickens and my curiosity shoots through the roof. We just finished watching the series "Bates Motel" on Netflix and I have to admit, I watched it mostly for quick little views of that magnificent house. I spend more time than I would like to admit checking out old buildings on Pinterest and I base my route options while driving, on very old neighbourhoods. Apart from just loving old buildings, I feel like I want to make them part of my life. I have no idea what that entails but it's a real passion. I guess I better do some soul searching. I found the beauty below on Pinterest this morning. What I wouldn't do to be able to see it in person...

Negative Nelly

Sometimes I am a negative nelly. Right now is one of those times. The thing is, I like to be busy and when I am not busy I sit around thinking of everything I am doing wrong and all the things I covet, that I don't have. In reality, I know life is good. But today I day dream about leaving town and trying something new. Tomorrow is a new day however, and I will still be here. Hopefully with a more positive outlook and appreciation for what I have.

The Universe is rewarding me

Call me crazy but I actually believe the universe is rewarding me. I have been working really hard at being a good wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, business owner, artist, pet owner and member of my community. I can't say that I am hauling arse at all of it but I am making a concerted effort each day and am doing my best to be my best. I think the universe is giving me a pat on the back. Life is pretty good right now. In fact I have few complaints! My family is healthy and happy. We are having loads of fun! My horse is behaving and giving me great rides. My business just had one of it's best weeks ever and I love my little store! The charity I am helping with is making headway. All in all there is a smile on my face :) I took a yoga class last night for the first time in weeks and it was wonderful! I have a full day workshop tomorrow of yoga and meditation and then again on Monday. Blessed? Yes, I am.

Perplexing conversations with strangers...

Today a lady came into the shop. She commented several times on how "quaint" it all was and showed a genuine interest in what I did. She spent some time asking about the different things I carry and then she started to share stories about people she knows who are artistic. It was then that she recalled a person who she used to live above in an apartment building. Apparently this lady was Indian and quite a talented artist. What struck me as unusual was how she worded it. She said to me "this girl was Indian and you couldn't tell she had any talent at all by looking at her." This comment got my back up at first but I decided to let it slide as it may not have come out right and I didn't want to embarrass the woman. It did make me think though. What does race have to do with creativity and what exactly does talent look like? hmmm

Life Changes

Have you ever yearned to just shake things up in life? I am not at all unhappy with my life. I love my little family, my fur babies, my wee house and my little business. That being said...I spend a considerable amount of time daydreaming about taking a leap and changing my life. Today I am dreaming of living in one of those little efficiency homes that you see links for all over facebook. They are kind of awesome! They force you to have less stuff. Less shit in your life. Less junk. Sounds kind of appealing.

This gorgeous little house is 288 square feet. I just love it. It wouldn't be fair for Piper because kids like stuff. I would love it as my own little getaway though. I truly would. Now back to daydreaming for me...

My love affair with horses

What I remember most, when I first started riding was all the wonderful smells. I am not actually saying that with any sarcasm. I think I truly fell in love with horses so deeply and so quickly that the farm smell was almost intoxicating for me. If I close my eyes and picture my tiny, nine year old self walking into that barn in Terra Cotta for my weekly lesson the thing that stands out most is the smell of the leather, horse hair, hay and rain. Things that to this day, I still love. I am fortunate enough to still have horses in my life and if Piper falls in love with them the same way I did, horses will be a big part of growing up for her too.

Eat Pray Love

For some reason I have been thinking about this movie a lot lately. I always seem to be on somewhat of an emotional journey so maybe that is why. It could also be that I am daydreaming a lot about Bali lately, or eating too much good pizza! In any event, Eat Pray Love was the last movie I saw with my former best friend. Shortly after going to the movies together we had a stupid fight. I can't even recall exactly what was said but if I had known it would result in nearly four years of not talking I would swallow those words back faster than ever. Lately she and I have chatted very briefly. We have both said our apologies and I hope she knows how much I mean it. I have mourned our friendship more than I ever imagined I would. Hopefully one day we will get over this.

A little lost?

Lately I have been feeling a little lost. At times it makes me feel down and at other times, excited about what might be on the horizon. I still love making jewellery but there are days that I really feel like it isn't going anywhere. I will put my heart and soul into a piece but then the self-doubt starts creeping in. Will anyone like it? Would anyone want to actually own it? Does anyone even care??? I have seen it before, the term that the biggest hurdle standing in your way is self doubt. Hmm... I wonder if that is true? Or am I indeed talentless? I can't help but feel like change is in the air. I have no idea what it looks like but it's kind of exciting. Until it reveals itself I just continue along on my path, making jewellery and day dreaming. I guess it's not a bad place to be!

Today the sun shines...

Today the sun shines. Although it is still quite cold and the streets are covered in snow my mood is upbeat. That sun in the sky really makes all the difference for me. Strange really. Am I that is easily swayed?

Karma

Those who know me, know I am a firm believer in karma. I often say that I attend the church of karma or that karma is my religion. Sometimes I fear that karma missed it's mark but usually it just runs on it's own schedule. Once again, I have seen karma in action. It's kind of amazing really. My faith has been restored. Karma : get served what you deserve.

Creativity Burst

It has been so cold outside lately, my face actually froze this morning! This has caused me to spend a lot of time inside and consequently, a lot of time in my studio. Good for the mind and the soul! I have really been having fun with my creativity for the past few days. Sometimes the weather works in our favour. That being said, we leave on our cruise in exactly one month. I find myself constantly day dreaming about it! I so need this. On a personal level, I feel like I have been upsetting (maybe disappointing?) people a lot lately. In ways I think it is better than being a "yes" person and I feel good that I am being true to myself but I just wish that I was better at doing it in a way that didn't upset others. Of course there is a lesson in there that I am trying to learn. In the mean time, I shall continue to create...

Credit Creek Store in Belfountain

Some days I really miss having a shop. I loved having a little space, surrounded by things I loved with kind customers that were usually willing to share a laugh. The reality of the situation is that my current set up is much more convenient. I am home to care for my daughter and husband and animals plus I don't have the overhead that goes with running a shop. Truthfully though, I miss it. Some days more than others. I think I am destined to have a shop again in my life but maybe next time it will be on a beautiful island ;) There is a shop in a small little village called Belfountain which is outside of Caledon, Brampton and Erin. It's called Credit Creek and it has been in business for a long, long time. When I was a teenager I loved going there. I always found some treasure to buy and after visiting I would daydream about owning that little shop. I haven't been in years as I no longer live near there but just as soon as the weather is better and I have a free day I think I will visit. The last time I was there it was packed full of little gift items, purses, cooking things, home décor, you name it! I loved pretty much everything in the place. If ever you find yourself in that neck of the woods you should definitely stop in.

The Starlet Kitty

Sometimes working at home can be a little lonely and I like to entertain myself with a little chuckle. At times, it comes out in my creations:

Today I created the "Starlet Kitty" necklace. Look at her, strutting her stuff in rhinestones. Just gorgeous and she knows it!

Something New

One of the things about being an artist and thriving on creativity is that I am always wanting to try new things in the studio. My latest "new" thing is handmade clay pendants and charms. I really like the different texture and broad range of colours that I can add to my creations with this new element. I am using a modeling clay that I form into a shape, bake in the oven, paint and seal. I think it will make for beautiful monogramed charms in the future as well and I am picturing pale shades for that. Today though, I have had Valentines on my mind and have made a few hearts. I love hearts all year though and I definitely think I will be making a lot of these in the future. What do you think of them?

Pinterest Loving

So, who else is addicted to Pinterest? I checked it out for the first time about 14 months ago. I think I was bored and looking for something to excite me. Little did I know that I would learn to love Pinterest. My family would also learn to love it as it has greatly aided my former lack-luster cooking skills. Don't get me wrong, it's not just about the fabulous recipes. Pinterest offers inspiration for travel, renovating one's home, renovating one's life, making a wicked dessert, painting furniture, decorating cupcakes....you name it! I kind of can't get enough of it. Some things have really been a total failure that I have attempted but more often than not, they turn out just fine. Tonight's dinner for example. bacon wrapped chicken. Definitely a favourite in my house and easy-peesy. Just sharing a little Pinterest love today....

A dreary Sort of day...perfect to start blogging again!

I am looking outside my window and everything looks gray and drab. A dreary sort of day yet I am still inspired. We booked a trip this past weekend and my family and I will be going on our first cruise ever at the end of February. We are so excited! I am really looking forward to seeing the Grand Cayman Islands, if only for a day! I am sure I will be up half the night after being there, wishing I could access my studio and make some inspired pieces! I will have a camera handy though and am sure to return from our trip brimming with inspiration. Today I made a beautiful bracelet that is just popping with colour! It was inspired by a photo that I saw on Pinterest. I named this bracelet "Village in Mexico". Can you tell that I am vacation dreaming?