Gift For My Boyfriend's Niece

Randy's niece Brandi's birthday was this past weekend, she's really into video games so we bought her a gift card to Game Stop, but I hate just giving a gift card and always think it's fun for someone to open a little something something.

Last time I saw her she was wearing a ring with a sparkly pink cubic zirconia, so I made her this necklace.

I liked it so much I almost didn't want to give it up :)

I'm going to have similar designs up in my etsy shop within the next week or so -- I have to take better pictures than the one here. I don't know if my problem is lighting or my camera, but once I figure that out, I will be posting a lot of my newer designs.

An Estate Sale Bust and Unexpected Bounty

When I pulled up to this awesome mid-century ranch I had high hopes, which were quickly dashed as we were directed towards the barn/garage rather than the house.

What I could surmise by what was offered, either or both of the owners at one time was a watchmaker/jeweler or antiques dealer - which meant everything was priced REALLY high.  Even on half price day!  I ended up with an orange juice pitcher, a straw handbag and some vintage clip-on earrings that I plan on taking apart for the funky beads.  I was too dispirited to photograph any of my booty.

However, Randy's aunt gave me a large bag of her no-longer-wanted costume jewelry -some of it is worth keeping intact! The stuff I want to take apart and re-purpose is funky too, so I'm excited to get upstairs and start sorting everything.

I have been sick for the last 3 days, nasty head/chest cold - I am very low energy and blah.  I can't wait to feel normal again.  Only four days until I am in Las Vegas! YAY!