A father's day - without

Today was a difficult day for me. My first father's day since he died. It also marks a year since the last time we had a conversation. I can't help but think of that last chat and the odd question he asked me. He asked at the end of it if I had anything else I wanted to talk about. I know that doesn't sound like much but it was very much out of character. Almost like he knew he'd soon be gone. Weird.

a fantastic event

the southern california flame surfers sponsored their 1st Beads of Courage event yesterday. Beads of Courage is an arts-in-medicine program for children with serious illnesses. what a privilege it was to take part in this special event.  if you'd like more information please go to www.beadsofcourage.org

busy, busy

I have been on the torch melting glass like crazy.  When I'm in torching mode (as opposed to silver creating and jewelry designing.  or, to be honest, just screwing around) I am in the zone.  I find it totally meditative and relaxing.  It cleans out my brain in a way nothing else does.  And the colors.  It's like opening a brand new box of crayons everyday.  Can you smell them?  And then LAYERING colors.  That changes everything.  I think I'll allow myself a few more days with glass, then I better move on to the next thing!

Sylvie!!!

Exciting news! the incredibly talented Sylvie Lansdowne is coming to Southern California to teach at The Mandrel!  Sylvie "The Queen of Whimsy" makes the most fantastic beads and she will be sharing some of her tips and tricks.....
call Donna at The Mandrel for info 310 413 9789

here is a peek at the magic that is Sylvie!!!

Beads of Courage

just a quick announcement....if you are in the orange county area of california you should check this out!

  April 16th 10am - 4pm / A Bead Challenge 

all proceeds and beads made will benefit children in the Beads of Courage Program ar Children's Hospital of Orange County, City of Hope National Medical Center and Rady Children's Hospital.
make a beaded bracelet ($10)
sponsor a bead for a child in treatment ($5)
win prizes in the bead challenge raffle ($2/ticket)
purchase unique items at the gift shop
watch artists melt colorful glass into beads

hosted by: CBS (coatings by sandberg)
628 N. Eckhoff, Orange

sponsored by: southern california flame surfers

Bob, I've missed you so.....

ok, here comes another tale from childhood.  but I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it ( I'm about to lose control and I think I like it....no!  pointer sisters be gone!) I met my friend Jill down in Orange today.  I hardly ever go there but we wanted to see a movie and Orange is kind of the half way point between our houses.  I was a little afraid of this particular movie theatre because last time I was there (ok, a lot afraid) was 1998 and I met Jill there to see Titanic.  this turned out to be one of the worst days of my life (no fault of Jill's....I love you Jilly) but that's a story for another time.  so I returned to the scene of the "crime" to see The Lincoln Lawyer.  with terror in my heart (ok, my just a little hesitation) I pulled into the lot which has been completely re-done since 1998.  and there before my eyes he stood.  tall and proud as he alway has with his platter of hamburger and fries.  like a desert mirage.  bob.  as in bob's big boy.  I have lusted for a visit with bob since I was in my early 20's when he rudely disappeared from orange county, and my life.  oh, the stories I have shared with the kids of bob adventures in my childhood.  bob's for breakfast.  bob's for pie or hot fudge cake.  bob's for spaghetti with chili on top.  and of course, the bob combo.  hamburger, fries and a side salad all squeezed onto one plate.  today, bob re-entered my life and I will visit him soon.  oh yes, I will have me some bob.

adventures with the Mahoney girls

if you know me at all you probably know Joni is one of my bestest friends.  we have been through a lot together.  good and bad.  she was totally there for me when my dad died.  I was with her as much as possible when her health took a very serious turn.  we have had great, fantastic laugh fests and many meals together.  Her daughter Hannah grew up with my son David from 3rd grade on.  She is 20 and attends college in Oregon.  I love this kid!  she is so wise, mature, funny and beautiful.  so Hannah is here for spring break and unfortunately we could only squeeze in one visit this time.  of course we chose to go to CPK (california pizza kitchen for those of you that live elsewhere).  what a fun afternoon!  Joni has done such a wonderful job raising Hannah and they always make me feel like family.  and I just wanted to thank them.  love you both!