Chat…Just Because

Although it’s already February, I wanted to take a moment and reflect on the events of my 2009. I’ve been blessed in so many ways that I cannot possibly include all of the wonderful experiences I’ve been part of, but I wanted to write down some of the events that stand out in my mind. In no particular order, and not meaning to diminish all of the other wonderful things that happened last year, here are some highlights:

1. Sent my oldest child off to college in Hollywood, California, 1,600 miles away from me. By the way, she’s doing beautifully, and I managed to recover nicely as well.

2. Lost 40+ pounds (more than my original goal of 36). Started on my journey March 1, 2009 and hit my goal August 13, 2009. Steady, slow addtional weight loss continues.

3. Welcomed little Tucker into our home. Really, don’t get me started with this little fella. I even have a Dogbook page set up for him on my Facebook profile. Imma dork.

4. Adopted three families for the Christmas holiday. This was the first year we really went all out with this effort. I supported two families through my workplace, and my immediate family (parents, sister’s family) adoped our own family also. So much fun shopping for others!

5. Watched my youngest child complete her first paid acting gig (a PSA for Boys Town USA). Yes, I’m raising another budding actor and I love it!

6. Managed to sell some lovely Just Because Jewelry items, in spite of not advertising or actively promoting the business. It continues to amaze me that I am able to turn this creative outlet into something that people seek out and appreciate.

7. Reconnected with some dear friends from long ago on Facebook. While the social networking phenomenon wigs me out a bit, I do sometimes find it amusing to see what people are up to.

8. Spent time with Don in San Diego. On what can be counted as my only official getaway vacation last year, Don and I thoroughly enjoyed our time in that lovely city. We were totally smitten with Coronado Island and we now want to live at the Hotel Del Coronado.

I’m not sure what 2010 holds for me exactly, however I’m going to do my best to make rockin things happen! There may be a few trips in the cards, the purchase of a great swimsuit is imminent (a highlight, trust, if you know what it’s like to lose weight), some home improvement projects are in the planning, and I’m sure my kids will continue to delight and amaze me. I’d like to take my fitness goals to the next level and tone everything up too. That said, I’m rarin’ to go to see what I can make happen! How about you? Stay tuned!

We are settling into our newest routine now that there are two teens, instead of three, at home. Madeline is well on her way in LA, and while I know she misses us, she is immersed in doing something she adores. How lucky?! Would that we all could be as passionate and engaged in our interests. Elyse is already in rehearsals for the first play of the school year, and Parker is well into hockey games, tourneys and practices. It’s still quiet at home: Either the kids aren’t there, or they are studying. Not a big change from when Madeline was home, just less ‘stuff’ laying around. Tucker, our littlest fella, is always reminding us with his darling personality and boundless energy, to live in the moment and not take anything too seriously.

While jewelry production has been limited the past few months, it’s only because it was important for me to make my time with the kids a priority. I think many people may assume that once your children have reached the point where they are self-sufficient, you have all kinds of time on your hands. True, some time IS freed up when you don’t have to care for them 24/7, the way you used to when they were infants and toddlers. For me though, I’ve found I wanted to spend as much time with my teen kids as possible, because once college, jobs and life happen for them, there may not be as many opportunities to be with them. Such is life. And so it follows that I’ve tried to fill my time listening to them, being there for them and just appreciating the young adults they are becoming. Make no mistake though, my creative outlet is still on solid ground and is about to enjoy a resurgence in the coming weeks. So be on the lookout.

While we’re on the subject of changes, I’ll make this smooth segue into the new season. I always enjoy the settling of summer into fall. I could speculate about why for hours, but I’d rather keep things simple at this point, so I made up this little list of what makes me happy about this season. In no particular order, of course.

1. Crisp air
2. Cinnamon and pine scented candles
3. Colorful trees
4. Sweaters
5. Chili
6. Pumpkins
7. Boots
8. Messy leaves on the ground
9. Carmel apples
10. Bonfires outside; cozy fires inside
11. Pinecones
12. Fresh baked chocolate chip cookies
13. Scarves
14. Flannel sheets
15. Blue jean jackets
16. Bright blue skies
17. Vibrant sunshine

Do you agree? What did I miss?

I have a thing for dragonflies. I’ve known it for a while, but who else really needs to have this information, right? Ah, but a blog is for sharing, so share I must.

I’m not talking a freaky, obsessive dragonfly thing. It’s just that every time I see a dragonfly or a picture or other representation of one, I usually stop and consider its beauty. On a very few occasions, I have purchased items that include dragonfly images, but nothing over the top or even remotely noteworthy.

So what’s the attraction? I mean, we’re talking about an insect for heaven’s sake. A bug, for all intents and purposes. And anyone who knows me, knows I’m a totally girly-girl, who while I don’t faint, flee or shriek at the sight of small crawling or flying creatures, I also don’t go out seeking their company on purpose.

There just seems to be an inherent beauty and freedom about dragonflies for me, I guess. I don’t think about their life cycle, what they eat, how they survive, or even how they look close up. I just see them for what they are at that moment, flying in front of me or illustrated on the pages of a publication or in a piece of art. They catch my eye and pull my focus. Their delicate wings are a blur, their flight pattern is fleeting and unpredictable. I think I like them because they remind me to stop and appreciate them at that precise moment in time.

Since I have this little issue with dragonflies, I decided to research the symbolism behind them and found that they represent different things for different cultures, but the ideals are similar: Happiness, renewal, positive life force, hope, change and love. Ah-hah! These are all of the ideals I strive to embrace and project in MY life! No wonder I’m so enamored of them. Coincidence?

I wonder what other beauties of nature catch your eye? Hummingbirds? Swans? Eagles? A rosebush? A simple daisy? A cherry blossom tree in full bloom? A bubbling brook? A majestic snow-capped mountain?

Over the Fourth of July holiday, Don, Madeline and I went to see Pixar’s animated movie, ‘UP’ in 3D. I don’t usually head out to the movies with any regularity, but I was glad I did for this one. My brother had seen it a few weeks before and highly recommended it. I figure, he’s into making movies, so his suggestions are usually on target. Elyse had also seen it with her friend and thought it was adorable.

So sweet it was! What I found interesting was thatwhile it was a well-written piece, there seemed to be a minimal amount of dialogue, yet I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. Much of the storytelling and sentiments were depicted with the expressions of the characters faces, funny and breathtaking action scenes or beautiful visuals. It was so nice not having my ears assaulted with incessant jabbering or gratuitous dialogue. The story was completed with the perfect combination of resolution and hopefulness. And of course the animation was beautiful.

Many reviews say it is the best animated movie that has been completed to date. Go see it though for the story and the messages. Although billed as a children’s movie, adults will be more than happy that they experienced it as well.

I hope everyone’s summer has been smashingly great so far ! I’ve been keeping busy with the new puppy, keeping up with Elyse (who was in rehearsals all of June for ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.’ She was The Candyman, and a sassy one at that. See pic below.), keeping up with Madeline and her preparations for leaving in September (to attend school in LA), keeping straight where Parker is at any given time (he’s been working a hockey camp out of town for a few weeks), taking care of myself (down 30 pounds and counting), spending time with Don, and in general, enjoying life.

Some wonderful news: Madeline graduated high school on Memorial Day and we were thrilled by the surprise announcement that she was named salutatorian in her class of 308 students, with a GPA of 4.6! We knew she was oh so close to the top, but the announcement that evening caught me off guard. While she received her medal, the assistant principal read a prepared speech that Madeline had written earlier in the week. It had come down to her and another student for that particular slot, and so they were both asked to write speeches. Of course, I got all weepy and then they asked her dad and I to stand up to be recognized. We were in an arena! Madeline even had trouble picking us out. It was very emotional for me and her dad. Such a proud moment. And she worked so hard during all of her school years, particularly high school. She absolutely deserved it. (And she was such a stinker for keeping it from us!! But looking back, I’m sure she didn’t want to get everyone’s hopes up in case it didn’t work out.). She also received six honor cords for her efforts.

Believe it or not, it’s mid-July and I have YET to get to the pool or any body of water in which to swim! That’s ok though. I do love swimming, but really need to watch my time in the sun. But we have been out on the bikes a few times (even with Tucker in his little bike trailer), and of course hiking. No wineries yet though! Boo. Not really on the Jenny Craig plan now, is it?

On the jewelry front, I am in the early stages of developing ideas for a Web site and blog refresh and will need to enlist the help of Don to get that accomplished when the time comes. One of my major hurdles with this is coming up with a graphic concept that represents Just Because Jewelry. I’m not a graphic designer, so I feel somewhat limited when it comes to conveying what I think I’d like to see. I know that once I figure it out though, things will come together quickly and this is what excites me and keeps me motivated.

Also, I’m planning several new pieces for the collection and they’re in the ‘on the board’ phase, meaning, the beads have been selected and are on the design board waiting for me to arrange them in the most pleasing manner possible. It may take a few days or weeks for that to happen, but getting the beads out is the first step.

Of course, I’ll keep y’all posted on my progress and not go so long between blog posts. Just a reminder, if you are on Facebook, I would be so happy if you would please stop by my Just Because Jewelry fan page and become a fan!

Until next time … have a beautiful day!!

I mentioned I had a few more things to bring you up to speed on. Remember me going on about my dream puppy a few weeks ago? Within a day of that post, I, with the help of a friend at work, had located a breeder in my area with one puppy to sell. I was so eager to meet this little guy, but Don was heading out of town on that particular weekend and we couldn’t get it arranged right away. But the following weekend, the puppy was still available and … I’m happy and giddy to introduce the newest member of our family, Tucker!

He’s a coton de tulear, all white with champagne colored ears and spot on his side. When we got him, he was just four months old and 7 pounds. So much fun! He’s so smart and playful. His temperament is amazing. He’s about 9.5 pounds now, so he’ll be just a few more pounds full grown. He looks bigger than he really is because of all that amazingly fluffy hair!

He’s a bit shy when meeting new dogs and people, but warms up so quickly. I could gush on about him like I do my children, but I think you can get a good idea of his charm through some of these pictures.

So on top of my fun doggy news, my jewelry studio IS coming along, although with all of the family activity, it is going to take a while longer for me to get everything organized. It currently looks like a small tornado blew through it, leaving beads, boxes and Ziploc bags everywhere!

And on a personal note, I mentioned a while ago that I needed to take some time to do some good things for myself. One of those things was to lose a few pounds and get into better shape. I’m still in the process, but thrilled to report I’ve lost more than 23 pounds in 11 weeks using the Jenny Craig program to get me going. I’m about 14 pounds away from my goal and feelin’ groovy! Not one to fish for a pat on the head, just happy to share my news, so, yay me!

As you can see, I’ve been busy with my kids, my new puppy and taking time for me. Hope you understand the lack of posts for now.

Be back soon!

I’m back, if only for the moment. So much has been going on these past few weeks. Early in May, I chaperoned Madeline’s junior/senior prom. I had so much fun seeing all the young ladies and gentlemen decked out in their finest, completely absorbed in the moment, walking that fine line between teenager and young adult, having not a clue (and probably not giving a second thought) about what awaits them as they make the jump from high school to college or work.

The variety of dresses was mindblowing! It was like watching a designer fashion show right before my eyes. Madeline wore a vintage beaded dress that weighed about 7 pounds!

Believe it or not, my sister found it in a resale shop for $25, and once I had a new zipper put in, we had our original prom dress. It was just the teeniest bit roomy on her, but oh my, I must say, she looked stunning. I know I’m her mom, but still … (Pay no attention to the doorknocker tiara in the photos. Sorry about that!) With all that beadage going on, we decided a simple pair of crystal earrings was all this little number needed. She got so many compliments and had a wonderful time.

She’s basically finished with classes, having taken all of her AP exams and been exempt from the rest for having ‘A’s. Graduation for her is coming up on Memorial Day and then there’s the party in June, plus a quick trip to LA to see where she’ll be living when she attends The American Academy of Dramatic Arts! You’ll see her in films someday, so just remember, you heard it here first.

Elyse is finishing her freshman year and Parker his sophomore year. We’ve attended banquets and awards shows, spring hockey and lacrosse games, and dealt with school projects and activities, and now these two are approaching exams. I know you parents can relate.

I’ve got a few more tidbits to share with you, so please stop on by in the next few days!

It’s that crazy-busy time of year for us: School is winding down, which means end-of year banquets, shows, ceremonies, etc., plus Madeline is graduating (I’ll post some prom pictures of her soon too); summer plans are in the works; outdoor projects need to be addressed. April went by in a blink, and I think May will buzz along quickly too.

Hoping to get back to posting more regularly very soon! Until then, it may be sporadic. I’ll definitely do what I can though!

Is this a busy time for you too?

I finally picked out some items from IKEA for my jewelry studio a few months ago. Remember, I was trying to figure out what to do in my newly finished area? Unfortunately, the closest IKEA to St. Louis is in the Chicago area, and cost of shipping was more than what items cost! So I backburnered the plan for a while, making due with the kitchen table again as the makeshift workbench.

Then we found out a few weeks ago that Don’s ex was traveling to Chicago and would be heading to IKEA. What luck! I told her what I was looking for, and she offered to pick up the items and bring them back to St. Louis. Sweet!

So on Sunday, she dropped off my brand new work table and drawer cabinet. I’ll get to work on the table in the next day or so, but I was able to put together the little cabinet that will house some of my jewelry supplies.

This piece went from this (oh my)

to this, in just under two hours.

AND, I did it by myself!!! Yep. Don is out of town for a few days, so I decided I would just dive right in. Of course I could have used his brawn to help take the box it was packed in to the lower level (this sucker weighs 74 pounds!), but since it was just me and Elyse home with no brawn in sight, I had to take it downstairs myself, basically one piece at a time. That alone took about 10 minutes with all of the up and down! I was already sweating by the time I started.

But it was worth it. Turned out so cute. Of course, IKEA makes it pretty difficult to mess up. Even the directions have only pictures, no words. So unless you can’t interpret a picture, the piece should go together pretty smoothly. Now I just need to clear a space so I can set up the table. I’ll be so organized! … I think.

Keep you posted!

Ok, so I’m dating myself with the Donny Osmond hit, but whatev. The point is, I’m lover of sweet, intelligent loveable doggies, but alas, I am allergic to them. I don’t think I was always allergic, but then again, we didn’t have a dog for any length of time when growing up, so I guess I could have been allergic and just didn’t realize it.  

When I first was married, my husband and I had a beautiful Collie, but the hair everywhere was un-be-lievable. We couldn’t keep up with it! So we decided to find a loving family for her and move on without a canine buddy. But we realized a short time later that we missed having one around, and so we purchased an AKC registered Cocker Spaniel. We named this adorable pup, Lacy. Here is a photo of her right after we got her. Sweeet puppy!

She was such a joy to have around. She was literally our baby until of course Madeline showed up two years later. Sounds like classic ‘Lady and the Tramp’ plot, but really, she was a wonderful part of our family for many years. Loved her!

When we decided we needed a bigger home, we moved to a house without a fenced in yard, and we agreed to let Lacy live with my mother-in-law (who coincidentally bought our old house) because we couldn’t afford a fence and I couldn’t bear the thought of her running away. Once in our new house for a few days without Lacy, I realized there was a dramatic decrease, no … end … to my incessant sneezing, sniffling and congestion issues that had plagued me for the past few years. My sweet Lacy was the source of what I kept telling myself was pesky allergies. Allergies indeed, but to dander! Not pollen or other outdoor plant culprits. Dang!

Since then, nearly 11 years, I’ve not had a dog for fear that I would sneeeze my way through the rest of my life. The would girls ask repeatedly, “Can’t you just get a shot, mom?” But honestly, as much as I loved dogs, I wasn’t willing to subject myself to pills or injections just so I could live with one.

Over the years I have entertained the possbility of getting a smaller breed that has less dander, the bichon, poodle or maltese type, but then other things took priority, and I stopped looking.

Well with Madeline leaving for college in a few short months, I must be in some sort of nesting mode (which I totally realize) because I’m all over it again! Elyse is out of her mind with happiness at the thought that I’m even considering another dog, Parker is all for it, and Don is a dog lover also. So what’s the hold up? Fear. Fear of the allergies mostly.

But I’ve been doing my homework on breeds that are less likely to cause sneezing attacks and swollen, itchy eyes and think I’ve decided that I could live with one of these: A Coton de Tulear. This cutie is a tri-colored, but they also come in pure white or white and black.

Photo from the United States of America Coton de Tulear Club

I’d never heard of this type of dog before, but for the hours of online reading I’ve done, I now think that this little beauty of a breed would be an amazing match for our family. Oh I’d love to rescue a dog, don’t get me wrong, but I just can’t take the chance of me being allergic to a mix.

I could go on and on about the traits of the Coton, but suffice to say that I think I’ve made up my mind, and I’ll keep doing a bit more research. On the other hand, if any of you know of reputable Coton breeders in the Midwest or have firsthand experience with one, I’d love their information. If we do decide to pursue this, I would definitely want to meet the little sweetie before we bring it home. You can do a Google image search on the breed and see some of THE cutest pictures.