I Am Thankful For....

Hi friends,

I was sitting here thinking about Thanksgiving and asking myself the question, what am I thankful for. I realized it is actually quite a long list. To name but a few, I am thankful for life, for my family and friends, for my health, for a roof over my head, and a place to sleep. I am thankful for the food we eat, a job, skills to work with, and heating to warm my bones. I also realized that this is enough. There was a time that I lost almost all of my material possessions, I learned a lot from this. I learned that possessions are just that, another form of baggage that we carry around with us.I also learned that there are some wonderful kind and caring people out there who will help you and stand by you, no matter what. You are never alone, unless you really want to be. And so I am thankful, grateful, and happy living in the now and I wish that for you all too.

Speaking of friends, I'd like to introduce you to Mv. Mv is an Artfire Artisan and provider of tea, sandwiches, advice, and laughter in the forums. Mv is always ready to lend an ear, or to share with us some of the wonderful things she has found on Artfire. I visited her store today and had fun rummaging around among her handmade treasures. I thought these earrings were stunning. If you have time, I am sure she would appreciate some extra visitors to her Artfire store.  Here's a link to her Artfire store. Mv's Artfire Store.  

At the foot of this post is a gallery of Artfire Artisan shop links. Please go visit if you have time. Remember, the holidays are almost here and it is in shops like these that you will find unique handmade gifts to suit anyone's taste.


The Beader's Handbook
In this comprehensive beading handbook you will learn all you need to know about beading and a number of other handy bits and pieces besides. With over 300 photos and illustrations this book will take you from beginner to advanced in a flip of a few pages.

Discover the names of all those different sized and shape beads, learn beading stitches. Wrapping, threading, stringing, weaving, knitting, and crochet are all included in this book as are tools and techniques. Before long you will be trying out different ideas from the book and will keep it handy as a one of the main tools in your craft arsenal.  

The book is available from most bookstores that have a crafts section. The ISBN is 978-56477-800-0 and it is published by Martingale and Company in Woodinville, Washington.

Well, that's all from me today. Have a great evening!
Take care all!
Rhiannon
aka Lesley