A Fanciful Twist

Cabinet of Natural Curiosities {Golden Insect Pumpkins}

Dear Friends, I know Halloween has come and gone, and there were no posts here.

My blog service has been down for a week, which has been very stressful.

I am not able to upload photos as I normally do, so I am having to upload these giant versions in a round about way, until they iron out that glitch.

I figure, that is better than nothing.

I had so much fun and magic planned for you this season, I know Halloween is one of the most beloved posts at A Fanciful Twist.

And so, I have decided to go forward and post everything I had planned for you, even if it is a week late.

I know social media moved on to Christmas at the stroke of midnight on Halloween, but I also know some of you are true Halloween lovers, so these next posts are for you.

And now we have...

Golden insects treasures!

I'll show you my idea for these curious pumpkins and then the next post will be our 2022 Halloween post.

One day I was sitting on the sofa looking at my white pumpkins, thinking that they would look amazing covered in golden bugs.

I remembered I had a bag of plastic fake bugs, and of course, I always have gold paint on hand...

And so, I spray painted a bunch of bugs, bats, tiny mice and lizards in gold, and then I sprinkled iridescent glitter on them.

This really is the easiest craft ever, with the most fancifully magical outcome.

After I spray painted and glittered the bugs, I thought for a second about how I would attach them.

I almost instantly knew the answer, pearl head pins!

I just pushed the head pin through the top of the softer bugs, and anchored the pins around the bugs that were too hard to push through,.

I had soooo much fun with this craft, and the result was pretty magnificent.

At least, I thought so.

They almost look like valuable brooches.

In fact, you could glue a brooch back onto the bugs and cover a dress or jacket in them as well.

The uses for these bugs are really endless.

I loved the tiny golden mice so much, I saved a few to tuck in here and there.

This pumpkin fit in just perfectly with my daily decor.

I almost wish it could stay here forever, it's so wonderful.

I will keep it out until the pumpkin decides to perish...

The real bonus is that I can pull out the bugs, leave the pins in, and store them in a little box.

Then I can use them again next year.

 I hope you try this yourself, it really is a satisfying craft.

Amazing what a little gold spray paint can do to almost anything.

Next, I will be on my way to see if I can upload our Halloween post as well.

I'm hoping I am able to publish this for you now.

It has been such a harrowing time dealing with the Typepad crash of 2022.

It turned quite chilly here yesterday, and the pecan trees have turned a rusty golden color.

Autumn has arrived in my neck of the woods for certain.

I hope you are well dear friends, and that you had a really lovely October.

I will see you at our Halloween post soon.

 

Lots of love,

Vanessa

 

 

Of October Dreams and Halloween Sparkles

I've been having so much fun this October...

Sparkling things up (truth be told, I began in September) and enjoying the twinkle lights.

I made tulle pom-poms that are pretending to be ectoplasm on the tree.

Then I hung a few stars and antique mercury glass clowns, which seemed appropriate for the festivities.

And then my mannequin, who has a personality of her own...

Decided to wear all the jewels, and then wanted a giant pink tulle bow on her pointy hat.

She tossed in a garland of glittering stars for good measure.

Butterflies and ribbons always do the trick on the old dress I made her several years ago.

(out of antique dictionary pages)

She's so fancy, err fanciful, isn't she?

And so, we sparkled everything up the best that we could, and blew some balloons for pumpkin holiday, you see...

So many pumpkins are having a birthday this month, I can hardly keep up.

All freshly born in the garden.

And so, we must celebrate!

Because for us it's a celebration of magic, and magicalness galore, indeed!

I think Miss Witch is happy with her attire, or at least I hope she is.

I don't want her pulling my toes at night again, tee hee.

Eeeek!

Ghosts and goblins gather on pink buffet.

And Jack-o-Lanterns bob around, as if to say...

Meet us through the October looking glass, if you dare.

And, we absolutely do, don't we?

So, we put on our lucky moon amulet...

And venture through, where witches are busy...

Writing cards to friends like you.

(all cards in my Etsy shop here)

Which ones shall we choose?

As we make our way through the magical Halloween mirror...

A reflection of the enchantment we seek.

At least, I do, how about you?

And so, here is where we shall gather, as the sun begins to fade...

Put on your fancy hat and join the twirling witch brigade!

Because things get extra sparkly as the sun goes down -

Captured stars twinkle all around...

Illuminating her paper gown.

We sip tea as caramel bubbles in the cauldron for dipping apples...

And write our notes, most sincere.

Hoping that you have jumped in through the old secret mirror...

And are peeking around the corner, whispering, we are here!

To join in sipping pumpkin spice tea and having candy corn macarons.

Oh what fun we will have, chattering all night long.

Dancing under the moon and singing our favorite songs.

Now, tap your nose 3 times, and hopefully with that you will be here.

I mean, if you believe in magic that is.

Because, as we know, believing is the first step...

Cackle cackle!

I hope you have enjoyed my little tale my friends!

Mid October is here, must gather all the joys of this month as best as we can.

Twinkling fairy lights and pointy shoes abound!!!

I shall be back very soon.

I have endless tales to share, alas, I've been enjoying my month a bit too much it seems.

But I promise to pop in quickly as quick can be!

Lots of love from my witches cottage to youuuuu!

 

Magic, sparkles and wishes foreverrrr,

Love, Vanessa

 

 

 

 

 

A Costume Tea Party, of the Halloween Variety

I would like to personally invite you on an adventure with me...

Up the attic stairs and into a wonderland of costumes.

Finding just the right ruffles and lace gloves to prepare for a Hallowen fete.

A tea party if you will, of the costumed variety.

Witches, warlocks, fairies, cats, dragonflies...

What ever your mystery may be, join together to clink tea cups with me, won't you?

On Saturday the 24th of October I will be sharing my festivities with you.

(details at the end of this post)

All you have to do is say yes, and be here when the clock strikes midnight taking us into the 24th of October.

I am knee deep in the magical old trunk, searching for the perfect frock.

Sparkles, and lace and hats and old brooches, oh my!

A tiara, and mask, ribboned dancing shoes...

Hugest pearls, sparkly heels and a mask do delight!

What is your mystery costume of choice?

A billowing dress to twirl in under the moonlight?

Bangles up to your elbows?

A tutu, a jack-o-lantern a wand and a dream.

What more could you need really?

Oh I know, a tea cup with your favorite mystical punch.

I mean tea :-)

But wait...

The hour is closing near...

The light is changing, golden hour signifies the sun setting and the perfect hour for...

Magic and mischief of epic proportions.

Grab your top hat and join me, won't thee?

For what is life without a little celebration of sparkle and wonderland madness for October?

Oh that enchanting light...

Signifying evening time, when all the fairies take flight.

And so, yes it is true, a Halloween party for you will be happening this Saturday.

A virtual tea party of course, hosted right here on my blog.

If you have participated in past years then you know the hauntingly magical steps to take.

To view the Halloween tea party simply show up here on the 24th and I will share my own tea party through photos and videos.

It is open to everyone.

If you would like to have your own blog tea party at the same time (which you would share on your blog & link back to me), simply post a link to your party in the comment section of my party blog post on Saturday and I will add your link within the body of my post.

Then the party will be there to enjoy until the 31st (well forever really).

That's all.

Either be a guest who wanders through clinking tea cups virtually or host your own blog party and post your link on Saturday and let your friends know by linking to me.

Easy as pumpkin pie with cardamom icing.

I'd love to know if you plan to join in.

I simply can not wait my dear fanciful friendlings <3 <3 <3

 

I know it's quite short notice, but the month just blew by so quickly.

And sometimes, the best things are done at the spur of the moment <3

 

See you on Saturday, with a Halloween extravaganza <3 <3 <3

We will party all Saturday evening and beyond.

 

Lots of love,

 

Vanessa

 

ps: later this week I will post the most outrageous giveaway on my Instagram account, be sure to check in <3

 

 

Curious Collecting

Helllooo there!

I have returned from a week of gallivanting to and fro.

It's warm here, mixed with pure spring sun, simmering at full force.

I find myself watching movies set in the 1600's today as I go through my collections.

Truth be told, you may have noticed I collect all manner of things.

However, I have a special wood and glass box that I put my beloved insects in.

If I see a winged creature that has lost its life, then I bring it to my box.

Of course, I can never say no to petals.

Dried or fresh.

I have an abundance and still get petal greedy.

I was thinking I should change my name to, The Greedy Gardener.

What do you think?

My vintage bee pins have an incredibly vast tale.

Too long to tell.

I'll give the short version.

I have a large bee pin identical to these with the dark jade, which I purchased 16 years ago.

One of my most favorite things.

Huge sentimental value.

I lost it one night 16 years ago, and searched for it for 4 months.

Restaurants, shops, a boyfriend's house.

Cars, streets, nooks and crannies.

Nothing.

I went to the same department store a dozen times and they always said it was not there.

So, I went to the lingerie department on a last try, and the seamstress had a cubby there.

A gal pulled out a basket and my brooch was sitting right on top.

My favorite most cherished piece for years, I was so happy to find it back then.

Until 5 years ago or so.

It disappeared in my own house.

I have taken the place apart many times in search, nothing.

Just like my coral rose pin that disappeared and then magically reappeared.

Trust me, I am not just missing it.

So, hopefully one day "they'll" return it to me :-)

Leprechauns? Elves? You decide.

In the meantime I have scoured the earth to find the exact pin and over the last few years found these.

Identical brand and style.

Still, not "the" pin.

So maybe, possibly, hopefully one day - it'll be right back where it disappeared from.

In my glass case.

In the meantime I enjoy the stand-ins.

Have you ever lost something you adored and never found again?

In my more mature being, I just give up a little easier and accept the loss.

But refinding is always so swooningly wonderful, isn't it?

It's okay if I never find it again though.

So.

Petals and insects and keys and tiny tea sets.

All things I adore.

What's on your list?

Now petal collecting will be at its best for the year.

All of my roses are blooming madly.

All shades of pinks and corals and reds and yellows and lavenders.

Dreamy little rose days indeed.

I've been spending lots of time in the real world and painting in town too.

I have been having so much fun.

Wonderful marvelous times.

I'm enjoying my balance of country and city life.

I went to a crazy event on Friday, had champagne, listened to good music.

Painted in a city garden all weekend.

Now I'm back in the country jumping on the trampoline with ML and Miley.

Matty wasn't into it at all.

Life is full of twists and turns and I'm enjoying them all these days.

I'm still a person who likes seclusion but going places is proving to be quite enjoyable.

Thank goodness the boys all hold down the fort.

I've been making all sorts of art and sculptures.

If I can wrangle myself in I'll take pics soon and share.

I'm listening to Antony Hegarty (The Lake) and old Bat for Lashes (lonely) as I type.

I love rediscovering old faves.

How are you out there?

Is it cold, is it warm?

Is life good?

 

Lots of love,

Vanessa

 

 

 

DIY Brooch Fun with Paper & Vintage Baubles

Hi there!

Hope you're doing beyond fab!

I did some playing around with those crepe paper hollyhock buds I made...

Remember them here?

Since brooches are all the rage again I decided to make one for myself.

Not that I care about trends because I always love brooches.

But it inspired me.

So, tea + lemon bars + brooch making = bliss

At least I think so.

:-)

I wanted to stay with my granny chic found in a old drawer look for my brooch.

I got out some vintage bits and baubles for the project.

I cut out a roundish piece of cardboard and covered one side with fabric.

I used my hot glue gun for the entire project.

It was so beneficial to have the flowers on pipe cleaners as they held really well when hot glued because of the fuzz.

I used an old rhinestone button as my center piece...

And then just picked vintage beads and earrings randomly.

Squeezing little pearls in here and there.

I always keep brooch backs on hand that you can buy in a big bag a the craft store.

I hot glued one to the back, sort of high for balance when wearing.

And voila.

My own granny chic shabby sorta vintage brooch was happy.

I wore it with a candy pink cardigan.

I really love those Marie Antoinette shades of pink and blue.

Then I lent it to my mannequin for safe keeping.

It's always so much fun to do an easy happy project.

It's a great way to get the mojo going and have a good crafting time.

I highly recommend making one.

Do it, do it, do it!

 

I was going to give mine away, but I wanted to wear it, so I decided to keep it.

 

Now I have to get busy and work on some projects and deadlines.

Also, the mad tea party is coming soon.

Soooo much going on this summer for us all, yippeee!!

 

How are you doing out in your neck of the woods?

 

Love, Vanessa

 

 

 

Let's Make a Jewelry Holder Pin Board ♥

Rainy days in the desert.

Perfect weather for spring cleaning projects indoors.

Don't mind the terribly lit photos due to grey skies though.

My little indoor project happened to be one created out of sheer necessity.

Which turned out to be pretty easy, not to mention tres inexpensive.

You see, I was finding myself piling my jewelry on my chest of drawers after taking it off.

Sure, I have places to hang it from, but it stacks up on jewelry busts in a tangled mess.

And yes, I also have one of those standing furniture jewelry boxes that I've been filling with trinkets and treasures for 20 years.

Who even knows what nonsense is stuffed in there by now?

But what about the pieces you are into right now?

I go through phases, I don't know about you?

So, I wanted a place where I could see my current faves, but also hang them up quickly when I take them off.

But what sort of contraption could I concoct?

I went out to one of my sheds and found this large push pin cork board I picked up for 25cents at a yard sale a couple years ago.

I tied a ribbon to it, and realized, yes this could work.

I first covered it in favorite tissue papers, but it looked cheap and messy.

So, I took the papers down and remembered a bolt of pretty fabric I was recently gifted.

So I cut a piece to fit, and grabbed my dandy staple gun.

 

I centered the fabric on the cork board from the front and pinned it with corsage pins.

Then I turned it around and stapled it, folding the corners like you would do if you were gift wrapping a box.

I finished the project off by stapling a ribbon onto the back, for hanging purposes.

That's it.

Easy, and functional.

I'm kinda smitten with this.

I used corsage pins put in at a slight angle, pins facing up, to hang jewels from.

Perfect.

Quite sturdy also.

My current faves can now be seen quite easily and I can simply hang them when I take them off.

And bonus, I can actually see them all, which aids in choosing.

No more piles of nonsense.

Isn't that beyond easy?

I may have overfilled mine.

I possibly need one double the size.

But in person it doesn't look that busy and I am easily able to see everything.

I especially love that I adore the fabric.

And upholstering the dingy little cork board sure did elevate it, didn't it?

So that's it.

Kind of a ridiculously easy solution I think?

It really works in a way that no other jewelry contraption would have in my room.

It was fun to do, easy, and cost almost nothing.

I am sure you could do this project yourself for under $20 dollars easily.

Even if you didn't have the board, pins or fabric.

But now...

I bet you know what I am thinking?

I need more treasure.

Cuz, I'm greedy like that.

 

That, or I was a pirate in my previous life.

Which is entirely possible.

No joke.

 

I craved pirate treasure at 4 years old.

That can't be normal.

Can it?

 

Hahaha!

 

Love, V

 

 

 

 

Come in and Sit for a Spell...

The days of October are spinning, slipping...

Passing so quickly, oh my!

I can't hardly catch up.

Mystery and mayhem indeed!

I am just starting to conjure up some ideas for our Halloween Party in one week, eeeeeks!

It's almost here!

We are starting to get all trick-or-treatified!!

Even our old wooden mermaid girl put on a pointy hat.

Spending waaaaaay too much time in the glorious garden.

Such delicious breezy temps and sooo many blooms turning up for it.

Giant dahlias.

Blue and purple swirled morning glories.

Sleepy hollow naps in the overgrown tiny lawn.

Dinner plate dahlias in coral.

Heads bobbing in the sun.

Don't they remind you of these guys from Labyrinth?

Such pretty things these dahlias.

So forgiving, turning up year after year.

Since they grow from tubers, you only have to plant once where I live.

(the ground doesn't really freeze here enough to dig them up every year and replant)

The garden is about to have a huge color explosion.

It's so exciting!

I just love Autumn in Arizona.

It's not a New England autumn, but it's another spring.

Lovely in its own way.

And, a trickle of real autumn will come later.

Tea roses I love.

It's all coming alive again.

After the ridiculous summer heat.

Hoooray!

A place to dream and read and be.

A place to sing and invent tales and poems and songs.

I feel like October is on fast forward.

Where has the time gone?

And I am not seeing much Halloween goodness out there in the world.

It's like, the stores went straight to December?!?

Which is my birthday month and I love it.

But, what happened to Hallooooooweeeen?

We must make our own magic then, mustn't we?

It's trickling in for sure!!

So much planning and thinking up I have to do.

I always leave my parties to the last minute.

Then it (decor, planning, etc.) just comes to me and happens by some miracle.

We'll see what turns up this year!!

;-)

 

Cackle Cackle!!!!

I already made up a batch of caramel corn and we ate it so fast (hot and delicious), I didn't even take one photo.

 

How is your autumn coming along???

Any fun things to report?

 

Looove, V

 

 

OH YES!!

And the winner of the Scarlet Pink Magazine is.....

#19, Karen Leigh!!

Thank you to everyone who played!
That was so much fun ♥

 

 

Delicious Baubles in the Jewelry Shop

Pearls, rubies, citrine, candy colors, gold tones and more!

They are all finally in my shop right here...

VanessaValencia.Etsy.Com

Oooooo, fun fun!

So many collected and treasure hunted bits and baubles to share.

There is a wide variety.

Layers and layers, dangles, charms and glorious stones.

Vintage and antique elements too.

Sparkles, semi-precious stones, crystals, oh my!

So many trinkets I have collected, some for years.

And earrings galore as well.

I just adore earrings, don't you?

I took so many photos for each piece.

I wanted to give a good visual.

Every piece will be hard to part with.

I make each piece as though it is for me.

I try them on over and over, making sure I love them all.

Moons and stars too!

I wanted to make a super rich and colorful gypsy bohemian necklace...

So, there is some color in the mix too.

Rubies, peridot, iolite, citrine, garnets and charms too!

Along with lots of pinks and greys and golds.

Oxidized and antiqued elements a plenty as well.

Such pretty minty and pink colors too.

Pink + mint chalcedony, angels and key love.

Lots of details and fun elements.

And...

To satisfy my love of mystery and such...

I had to delve into my take on a Fortune Teller necklace.

Something collected and intriguing.

With oodles of semi-precious stones.

Each with their own meaning and healing properties.

Lots of pearls and metals too.

Antique religious elements...

Something for everyone me thinks.

All now in my jewelry shop.

Take a peek at VanessaValencia.Etsy.Com

If you have any questions contact me.

I will happily assist.

 

I am a lover of all manner of jewelry.

I have all styles for all my different moods.

The more the merrier I say.

 

Hope you like them too.

There might be a perfect treasure waiting for you.

;-)

 

Love, V

 

 

 

 

Photos & Jewels Coming Soon, Oh My!

Ooooo, it's jewel time!

Almost.

I am just finishing up taking hundreds of photos of jewels.

Earrings, bracelets, necklaces and all sorts of goodies I have been making.

I am adding a huge variety of new goods to my jewelry shop.

From pearls, chalcedony, golds, citrine, candy colors...

To delicious colorful gems like...

Rubies, amethyst, iolite, peridot, garnet - yumm!

Charms, dangles, beads, semi precious stones...

Antique elements.

Oxidized metals.

Crystals and more!

Such treasures I have searched high and low for to make lovely jewel treats.

I am so excited, I never make anything without trying it on several times.

If I would not wear it I don't make it.

I wish the camera would do a better job at showing how fun all of this is in person.

Alsoooo...

If you know me, then you know that I always wear a longish rosary pearl necklace with antique religious medals on it.

I first made mine 15 years ago from some broken pieces I had.

I have worn it nearly everyday since.

No matter what I am wearing, I always throw on my necklace.

Even if I have other necklaces on.

(I love layers of jewels)

It doesn't have a clasp, it just slips right over my head.

Often people come up to me and just touch the medals.

I know, could be awkward :-)

But I guess they feel compelled?

Or, they ask me about it, or ask me where they can get one.

So, I went on a hunt for old medals and rosary pearls -

And....

I made a few to add to the jewelry shop as well.

So, they will be a part of this rather huge update coming in the next few days.

I just wanted to share a little peek.

Show you what I have been up to.

I got a little derailed by a bad eye allergy.

Don't mow strange dry grass in the dark okay?

:-)

Anywhooooo, I am sooooo excited about sharing these jewels in detail soon.

 

Are you into jewels?

What is your birthstone?

 

I have about 40 hours of photo editing to do.

A lot!

But scrumptious jewelry pics are coming, and then I will start the process of updating the jewelry shop.

Fun fun!

 

 

Loooove, V

 

 

 

Of Vines & Jewels

Ever so much rain in the desert makes for garden dreams.

Vines in the front flower garden go up trees, blooming in blues.

I love seeing blue in the garden, do you?

Way up high they go.

As big drops plopped, I took advantage of less garden chores.

Finished up some custom pieces and plunged back into other bauble makings.

I am going to start taking pics for my jewelry shop soon.

There are so many different pieces and colors...

Pearls and rubies and peridot and citrine.

Antique elements galore.

So excited to share soon.

I got a little slowed down due to a little garden accident.

I was running through the garden chasing Miles when a pointy rock sticking up from the dirt grabbed me.

I took a bad spill.

It's a lovely lovely sight I tell ya, ha!

I am all scabbed and bruised on one side, with a hobbling double twisted bruised foot on the other side.

Which is why I lost my pace the last couple days.

Curses!

:-)

Even if I have to hobble, I can't stay out of the garden.

I went out yesterday and took some pics for ya.

I grabbed a basket because I knew there would be good things to harvest.

Sometimes I wonder, what would it look like here if we got rain all the time?

A couple days of huge downpours and you would not believe how things grow.

With the heat and sun and rain, it's like a jungle out here.

I love that we got some random hurricane rain.

What a huge huge gift.

Vines threaten to gobble up Beethoven.

There are roses come up again.

It will be hot here until, probably Halloween day.

Not summer hot, but late spring hot.

Just enough to cool off at night, warm up in the day, and make the garden think it's spring again.

Growing up in these parts, Halloween can get really tricky.

The desert does the strangest things in Autumn.

It gets very cool at night (sometimes downright cold) and very hot during the day.

So costumes can be very very tricky things to decide on.

Once I was a mouse in a full furry commercial grade costume I borrowed from my aunt.

Like the kind you jump into and zip.

I almost fainted from the heat.

I'll just be my witchy self this year.

Running through gobs of flowers as butterflies flutter everywhere.

And they do.

Soooo many butterflies.

And caterpillars.

The ground is getting bushy green from the rain.

I have mowed the entire acreage twice this summer, which is a HUGE job.

I think I might have to do it again.

Why don't I get help, you wonder?

Well, I do have Lovee, but he has endless chores too.

To be honest, I am afraid that someone who doesn't know my garden will mow the wrong things.

And, I am weirdly not into having strangers tending my garden, you know what I mean?

Below you see the partial sides of the vegetable gardens.

In case you are wondering what you are looking at :-)

The front entrance is starting to become covered with pumpkin vines.

Pumpkin vines everywhere.

My domed veggie garden has pretty much become a pumpkin house.

The inside is so full of vines you really can't get in.

It is surrounded by white sage especially in the front (this is the side), nettle, a few zinnias and more vines.

I just love seeing those pumpkin vines go.

After a harrowing exhausting summer, the vine explosion makes all the hard work worth it.

There are some HUGE pumpkins hanging around.

Yay!

These two are biggies.

Hope the vine can hold them.

I stopped pruning wild zinnias that took over parts of the veggie garden.

They got so thick.

Any time of day out there, you will be greeted by dozens of butterflies.

I have 3 beds full of my yearly basil and now zinnias.

All self seeded.

Including the tomatillos.

Yep, all self seeded.

I knew it would all self seed, so I just worked the dirt around this year, and watered.

Waiting to see what would happen.

It's a tomatillo jungle.

They are in every bed (there are 8)

And in the domed garden too.

I have been making the most delicious green salsa's with them.

They are a bit crispy crunchy inside and wonderfully tart.

Time to think about the winter veggie garden too.

Oh, you should see all the wild arugula growing all over the garden from the rains.

As rambling vines dance with cactus.

Sometimes fuchsia and blue even meet for a date.

As I wrap up the jewels.

Amethyst, yumm.

And get ready to make another batch of green tomatillo salsa.

I just pop a couple yellow and green chilies, a sweet onion, some fresh garlic and the tomatillos into a pot of water.

I bring them to a boil then simmer 10-15 minutes.

Until everything is soft.

I use a fork and knife to open the cooked chilies and scrape out the seeds (too hot), plus cut off the stems.

I then pop everything into a blender, adding a little of the water if needed.

Then pour into a bowl, salt to taste, a little squeeze of a lime.

Presto!

Delicioso.

Eat.

I do the same for making red salsa.

(tomatoes, chilies, onions, garlic)

Although, I do put a couple caps full of vinegar in mine.

And some lime.

You can't go wrong, and it is soooo yumm.

Then let it cool, refrigerate and eat for about a week.

We eat ours quicker though.

The other day I had made red salsa, and I wanted to make a pizza.

But we didn't have any pizza sauce or tomato sauce.

So I took my red salsa, added a little sugar and olive oil, and can I just say...

It was the bet pizza sauce ever.

Best pizza we ever had, to date.

 

Well, now I am just veering and rambling.

Which I am so good at in person.

I am a talker.

It's a problem, I know.

I am hermity too, it's some weird medley.

Once you get me talking...

My 1st grade teacher used to tell me that I was a social butterfly, she told my parents that all I went to school for was to socialize.  I was always in trouble.

  Then she would scream at me in class and say that if I didn't stop talking she was going to hang me by my ears and shake me until my guts fell out.

I don't think I was really talking that much to tell you the truth.

She also said a lot of politically incorrect things.

Those were the bizarre days of yore, haha!

 When the principal walked around with a wooden paddle.

Or would take off his belt and shake it at a bad kid.

 

Remember those times?

HA!

 

Okay, I'm leaving now...

Happy weekend!

 

Love, V

 

 

 

 

On These Days...

Summer rain makes air thick in the hot desert.

So thick you can almost taste it.

It tastes like wild grass and moist dirt.

It tastes like sun rays on weeds, with a hint of mint leaves.

You can taste basil as you take a morning walk.

Past the veggie garden, arugula and basil intertwine.

There is a path that winds around our entire property, which Mister Lovee and Baby (our golden who died in 2010) created many years ago.

I walk this path every morning for an hour, music in ears, thoughts fluttering about.

Sometimes in the middle of the day, always in the evening, I meet the path again.

Wild grass and weeds make the desert a very green place during monsoon rains.

Surprisingly green really.

I collect jars of wilted roses on my walks.

And I think.

I think a lot.

I think about paths on a path.

I think about life and perceptions.

I think about how perhaps today...

The most important choice I'd like to make is...

What Bakelite bracelet I should wear?

Should I choose smooth or carved, orange or green?

Something simple and uncomplicated.

Yes yes, for today I choose this.

Root Beer Bakelite.

(its real name)

Even if I am just going to the grocery store.

It sounds so much more lovely than anything else, for today.

Or maybe I'll mix a little cinnabar in?

I must remember to wear these bangles as such more often, you?

These are some of the things I think about on my walks.

How something as simple as bracelets can add some lightheartedness to a day.

Walking with music in ears, playing in jewels, laughing out loud.

These are all fun things, that to me, add balance to this thing called life.

I whip around our path.

It is lined with trees in some places, and on super sunny days the shade is awesome.

I step out from the path to see the storm rolling in over the mountains, from the east.

This is the view from the gypsy wagon.

The sun and storm clouds collide, hope it brings rain again.

I live for rain in summer, as you can probably tell by now.

I have probably bored you silly with all my rain chatter.

I love passing by the quince.

All furry and then smooth when you rub the fur off.

I see Matty and Miles running about sniffing my footsteps.

Wondering where I am.

I crouch down and make funny noises until Matty finds me.

Passing the peach tree, headed down the path through our invented Fanciful, Arizona.

Where the cottage sits, to the west of our property.

It's such a joy to see Matty coming back to himself after his ordeal with Valley Fever.

We almost lost him, thank goodness his ornery little self is skipping around again.

Took him a good year to get better.

Mister Lovee is trimming branches on a ladder.

I pass our little tiny cottage village and look back, only to see Miles hiding in the cool weeds.

Weed oh weeds.

Boy do we get weeds when it rains.

But if you mow them, it looks like a gorgeous lawn.

There is also a ton of wild grass this year.

Not sure where it came from?

It is short and soft.

I pass Baby's grave and the sanctuary, way out in the furthest most Northwest part of the garden.

Round and round I go.

Every morning, the landscape changing, in the growing days of summer.

The front fence nearly covered by the honeysuckle.

Towering prickly pears looking on.

And that climbing America rose bush coming along wonderfully for its first year.

A sea of self seeding morning glory vines has turned up in major ways, in several places.

These are purple and in front there are blue.

My sis makes morning waffles, how fun!

As I hunker down making all sorts of things in the studio.

And thankfully, I take a break just as the thick moist clouds begin to light up and glow.

Early evening brings out something in all of us.

Does it do that to you?

We all meet up for a stroll under clouds as dogs chase each other around.

Last evening the clouds put on quite a show.

Grey then blue then golden then pink.

Then layers of colors all together, sublime!

Clouds are one of the most amazing things aren't they?

Tufts of puffs floating in the sky, for us to admire.

Glowing with the setting sun, outlining mountain tops like neon signs.

Who knows what a cloud will morph into from second to second?

And so, my rambling post goes hand in hand with my rambling path.

The path I find myself on day after day after day.

Hidden away on our little plot of earth.

A place to go to for walks and daydreams and breathing and being.

Now, I don't even know what I intended to say.

But, that was that ;-)

I am really so busy doing a million things that taking walks is crucial I tell ya.

I need to run outside and clear my head and refuel all the time.

And sometimes, I even take my camera to show you what I am up to.

Boring as I may be, haha!

Anywhooooo....

Back to jewels and making I go.

I am sooo obsessed with pink chalcedony these days.

It's soooo delicious looking, ain't it?

 

I hear major thunder again, hoooooray!!

Must post before I lose internet.

For some reason when it storms I loose my internet connection.

The other day the lights even went out, just as I hit publish!

Lucky save.

 

Love, Vanessa

 

 

 

 ps:  My sister is laughing hysterically as she says this is the funniest most random post ever because she says it's me saying "It's bracelets, and clouds and paths, and ALL my favorite things!!"

But, she is saying it in the most silly mocking 5 year old voice ever!

Hahaha!

By the way, she says I sound like the Lumpy Space Princess, whoever that is?!

:-)

(She's a purple cloud, I think?)

Nature's Decadence + Jewel Tid-bits

It's that wonderful time of year...

When I roll my wagon around the garden...

Visiting dozens of our prickly pear cacti, collecting their fruit in a vat of water.

Late afternoon is when I do this, on a special August day, when the fruits are bright and ripe.

There are so many prickly pear cactus all around the outskirts of our garden.

Some are taller than me and wide as a car, out front.

Others are dainty, like this one under the giant apricot tree.

I use my tongs to collect and pop them into water, just so the thorns don't cling to me too much as I wheel my way around the garden gathering.

Then I get cozy and spend about 3 hours taking the edible (non-thorny) part out of the center.

I work with a sharp little knife and a fork, as you can't touch the outsides with your fingers.

(more details on doing this here)

Cutting off the top and bottom, and swiftly but gingerly, rolling the skin layer off and revealing a nugget of goodness inside.

Each one has about a million little seeds.

Some people make Jam.

Some people make dye for clothes.

 

I like to make prickly pear Lemonade.

 

I have a step by step tutorial and recipe right here.

It's soooo goood.

The color always takes my breath away.

What a major treat every August at this time.

I think I will make a second batch, even though it's a labor of love.

It's totally worth it.

 

Eeeek, lightning and thunder just now, so loud that thunder!

I best type fast, before my service cuts out as it always does when it storms.

 

I have been a juggling making things mad woman.

Clay creatures are almost ready as layers and layers of paint and stain dry.

(I let each layer dry as I work)

And, I have been staying up way past my bed time playing in jewels.

Garnets and crystal quartz and Swarovski crystals and antique pieces and milagros and and...

Ooo, it's so fun!

I try each one on over and over until it is something I would LOVE to wear myself.

So, there will also be more jewels in my jewelry shop soon too.

Oooo, darkness and bright lightning so close, better skedaddle!!

Much more soooooon!

 

How are you? 

What's going on out there in the world??

 

Love, V

 

 

 

ps:  My sister is having such a fun giveaway on her bloglette right here.

She's so crafty!!

 

pss:

Pouring rain in the desert right now... YAY!

Some days are for...

Sometimes, you have to just throw sanity into the wind...

And listen to a big bowl of treasures...

Beckoning.

Let's play, let's play.

Dress up time.

Let's play.

I have sort of embraced my natural air dried wavy hair.

I still like to blow dry it straight sometimes.

But, letting it air dry is so much easier.

And working from home, you don't really get dolled up like the days of heels and offices.

That was fun, I loved that about work.  Dressing up.

So, now it's a treat to put on 10 layers of mascara and jewels.

So, out came the mascara wand.

And lipsticks...

At least we get to have some sort of wand in life.

And one for eyelashes does seem quite like magic!?

Don't forget the head scarf.

I have never plucked or waxed my eyebrows ever.

Random fact.

Do you?

My friend said thinner eyebrows make you look younger.

But I am too terrified to change my brow as such :)

Next is the best part, playing with jewels.

(oh, a story on the colorful ring below.  I got it for $65 dollars at a shabby antique store a decade ago.  When I took it home, I showed it to Lovee who checked it with his jewelers loop (he comes from a jeweler family) and found the "crystals" to be actual diamonds.  It was so exciting!)

It was a perfect day to try on endless jewels and have a little fun.

The sun was warm, and the cool breeze billowed in, tossing the window sheers about.

I love that dreamy feeling.

I stacked fun upon fun...

And then hung it from my ears.

Oh my!

What to choose??

 Then it was time for shoes.

The boys know when I am getting dressed to go somewhere.

They go bonkers, running around and jumping in circles.

But this time, they didn't.

How did they know I wasn't going to go out with coins on my head?

(a few years ago I was a full on gypsy for a party, but first met people for late lunch, and the entire restaurant just stared at me like I was insane, it was horrible and hilarious.  People can be so square, haha!)

 

Miles snuggled into me as I was putting on shoes, looking at me quizzically.

Umm, hello?  Why are you dressed like that?

It's boring.

Let's go outside and chase rabbits.

(Yaaaaawn)

Okay, he won.

I went out with the pups to run in circles as day turned to evening.

We always have tomorrow.

Or do we?

Do we have tomorrow to wait to have a little fun???

What if we pretended there is no tomorrow?

What would we do today?

What would you want to be your last life experience?

Besides hugging and kissing those you love?

 

I think we should make a list and choose one.

 

Then do it, this week?

Just one.

 

What would I do..... thinking thinking thinking...

 

What about you?

 

 

Love, V

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh Goodies!

I have been so entranced with flowing solder, counting holiday cards and cutting labels...

That all my days ran into one big spiral.

So, I fell of the planet a little.

But, there are fresh treats now in the shop.

So, that's extra fun stuff ;)

I listen to movies, radio shows and audio-books when I work.

I rarely look up, so my mind is really accustomed to listening.

I find that thrillers can make me work more steadily and focused.

I made a handful of fresh pendants.

Hung them on their ribbons...

And polished them up.

I think they make scrumptious gifts for you or others.

They are a bit bigger in person than they seem onscreen.

They have a nice weight, and sparkle too.

I loooove soldering.

My very loud and active brain, I have learned, enjoys work where I zone out.

I wish it would go on vacation sometimes.

The only time it shuts up and gives me any peace is when I am painting, or soldering, and especially throwing on the wheel.  Goodness I love that zen space.

The bonus, treasures emerge.

Also, I did some inventory and stocked up the Christmas card section.

So, if anyone is in need of holiday cards, the shop is stocked.

If anyone would like a bigger assortment or amount for sending, let me know and I can make a card pack with many more, or a different variety.

I am beyond glad to do so.

Also, I have gotten oodles of requests for my funny holiday jar labels behind the scenes.

So, I made a bunch of them and put them in the shop as well.

They are so fun and giggle worthy.

Decorating your jars is extra fun.

I love that part.

 

 

So, there ya go, stocking up for the holidays, which are not far on the horizon.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, gasp!!

My shop link is here.

Hooray!

 

Let's see...

On the home front news.

You won't believe this.

It has been 75' - 81'F the last few days.

(that is 24' - 27' C)

Can you believe it?

There are roses coming up everywhere.

But more importantly, yesterday I stood in a flurry of hundreds of butterflies.

Yellow, orange, white and blue ones.

I tried to take pictures, but they were so fast.

Incredibly fast.

I'll try again today.

At one point several yellow ones gathered together and flew around me in a circle.

Then some beautiful white butterflies chased each other endlessly.

It was so interesting.

The basil flowers were covered in a gazillion varieties of little blueish moths.

Moths that look more like butterflies, so I am not sure.

It's an extra spring for certain.

I think that is why the holidays are so odd here.

It stays warm so far into fall, that Halloween and Thanksgiving can be one big blur.

But if we don't plunge, then Christmas smacks us on the forehead, and before you know it, it's February.

Eeeeeek!

Life is a whirlwind I tell ya, a whirlwind.

Okay, off I go for now.

Clay calls.

 

What's happening in your world???

Tell me, I wanna know :)

 

Looove, V

 

 

 

 

Solder Magic {Art Pendants}

I am convinced solder was invented by some brilliant metal magician.

I am having way too much solder fun.

I have a new batch of art pendants today.

I shouldn't have kept all my tools put away for so long.

I am also longing for my pottery wheel bliss, but that's another tale ;)

As for art Pendants...

These are now in my shop.

I wish I could convey how fun and weighty and elegant these are in person.

I am entranced, bewitched, besotted with sitting at my work bench soldering for hours.

Frosting my pendants with solder...

These art pieces turn into little treasures with the glistening silver surrounding them.

Each image is beyond clear in person.

I spent days and days working on getting super duper high quality small art prints of my work.

Perfecting sizes, plus a couple weeks testing pigment ink and archival papers -

So that I could make the last batch, and this new batch...

I added these to my shop a few minutes ago...

The backs have really old sheet music and old dictionary pages...

A little menagerie...

All now available in my online shop.

 

I have to clean my studio this evening.

I think trolls may have moved in.

I wouldn't even be able to tell at this point.

:)

It's like...  Hoarders, the art studio version.

Eeek!

Not really, but close.

 

See you super soooon!

 

Love, V

 

 

 

ps:  For a long time folks have asked if this would ever be a print...

I had to rebuild it to create a print, but finally, here it is...

Carnivale of Dreams.

Soldered Art Pendants

Finally, I get to share some of the arty shenanigans I have been up to...

Like new soldered pendants in my art shop.

I made a handful of them over the last of couple weeks.

Each one taking a bit of time, with attention to detail.

It was about time I got my soldering tools out again, wouldn't you say?

I use a lead free solder with sterling silver.

Each pendant is double sided, encased in glass.

With the double side, it's like you get two pendants really.

I soldered on 3/8" jump rings that are a nice size, so that a person's own chain can easily fit through.

My pearls fit through nicely.

Secret treat on the opposite side.

The pendants hang on silk ribbons...

And can be worn, used as an ornament or gifted.

Nice little gifts for you or others.

I am very generous with the solder.

I was explaining to Mister Lovee that I like to create a frosting effect with my solder.

There are no rough edges and there is a nice sculptural quality to them.

There's that great jump ring size (3/8").

The pendants have a nice weight to them, and are 2" x 2" in size.

So, for a pendant they are a nice size.

I jumped into my secret special silk ribbon stash for these.

Nothing like nice silk ribbon is there?

Below are examples of some of the backs.

I have really enjoyed making these.

They can now be found in my online art shop.

Hope you like them.

See you extra soon.

 

Love, V

 

 

ps:

I also whipped up a new assorted card pack...

It's called -

Pretty Wonderland

 

Mish Mosh...

Hola!

I am just finishing up some painting I have been working on, so I thought I would take a break and pop in for a little random chit chat.

It's so nice out.

Sometimes, in order to retain a measure of sanity, you have to get bejeweled to go out for a stroll in the garden.

Pull out a little Frida Kahlo, just for kicks.

On those strolls through our Fanciful, Arizona...

Bit of a ghost town.

I can only handle 3 ringed fingers at a time, you?

Otherwise the clanking between fingers feels way too unnatural and odd.

I wonder when and if Frida ever took her rings off?

The center amethyst ring (called a poison ring) I am wearing is very dear to me because I got it when I was 17 years old.

(I started collecting jewelry very young, around 5 years old believe it or not - Mombie has mass tales)

I got the amethyst ring on one of my first thrifting adventures on 4th avenue in Tucson.

It opens up, and you can store all sorts of curious items inside.

As you can tell, it's been through a lot, all dinged up.

Around 1994, the latch fell off, and it kept opening up.

So what I did is that, I filled it with things.

Little teeny tiny bits and bobs, and then I special metal glued it shut.

I don't even remember what I put inside anymore.

And it can't be opened, it's too sealed.

So, that's a little fun tid-bit.

A time capsule in a way.

Guess what?

Those homemade twix bars?

OH MY GOODNESS!

Here are some of the batch I made...

They were unreal.

Awesome.

Outrageous.

Better than I ever could have imagined.

You will faint if you make them.

I put on a very thin coat of chocolate.

This is the recipe I used.

I made two changes.

In the caramel, I used no vanilla (makes caramel taste yuck to me), and I used brown sugar instead of white.

They were beyond words.

The cookie part was just...

I can't even tell you, just make them.

K?

How about an appallingly ratty picture?

Filled with love?

I never want my picture taken.

Unless I have on a super nice frock and full hair and make-up.

Which working from home happens almost never.

Who wants to post rotten pics of themselves?

I don't know?

(I LOVE to dress up, which I loved about real world jobs)

Anyhow, after a long day in my giant, knee length, paint covered horrid blue sweatshirt...

I cozied up on the couch.

Unruly hair and all.

As my Greek ex would have said...

Moromou, your hairs are a huge disasters :)

Miley cozied up with me.

And we fell asleep.

Mister took these bizarre shots.

At weird angles.

Doesn't my head look funny?

Alas, it's a pic of love.

Ain't it?

That big boy.

He and Matty (since Matty got sick) have been attached to my hip.

(Matty is still mending for the better, hooooooray!)

They usually are.

Only now, extra big time.

Really needy.

Which I don't mind at all.

They don't want to be anywhere but with me.

Is that normal?

I never thought I would be a crazy dog person.

Thank goodness I was allowed to experience it, it rocks.

I never thought I would let a big fur ball sleep on me.

I never thought my life would be so intertwined with fur.

I am so thankful for it.

 

Love, V

 

 

 ps:  The moon, so pretty tonight!!

 

 

Earrings, Earrings, Earrings & Bird!

What ever have we been up to?

I've been making art, and jewels.

And getting into trouble, of the confectionery variety.

I've been playing with jewels a lot.

Oh that reminds me.

Folks have been asking me how to get to my new jewelry shop, and if my art and jewelry shop are one in the same?

They are not one in the same.

You can find...

Art here  &  Jewelry here.

Links to both are right up there below my banner, see them?

But I have to say, the easiest way to get to any of my shops, or to this blog is....

By visiting VanessaValencia.Com

Which is my main website, and has a left hand sidebar that will take you to said places.

Easy.

As for jewels, and other things...

It's beginning to look a bit Christmasey around here.

My old bird is hanging out with us this year, I can't decide if he is a duck?

I think he is...

But I want him to be a swan.

:)

I have had him for ages and ages.

He was hand carved in Canada, and then after I got him, I had the audacity to decoupage him with French pages.  Oh, about 10 years ago?

But, he likes it.

So, he is having fun this year.

Mister Lovee is thrilled about the 24 hour Christmas radio station.

Not.

Haha!

I say, come on, how can you not LOVE Christmas?

It's aaaammmaaaazing!

He says, Dovee, I'm Jewish.

:)

Then he says in his very sarcastic dry voice.

Yay, Christmas, Yay, woo woo hoo.

But you know.

I know he loves it.

I know it.

I can tell.

No joke.

Lovee, you love it, you know it!

Last night after a hot shower, I sat on my bed and painted my toe nails fresh.

I was listening to the Christmas station on my alarm clock radio.

And then that song came on about the guy who meets his old flame in the store.

And they share some beers or something.

And then at the end he says....as I drove home the snow turned into rain.

And then they play Auld Lang Syne.

And I started to cry.

And Mister Lovee came in and said.

Is something wrong with your toe?

Are you okay?

And I said no.

Not my toe.

(haha, thought I was crying over my toe, silly goose)

Then I said, this song.

The way it goes into Auld Lang Syne at the end gets me.

Just made me tear up.

And he goes.

DOVEE, that is a new year's song, and Christmas hasn't even past yet!

What the heck?

And I said, I know.

But, it just choked me up for some reason, I don't know.

And he says, are you listening to the 24 hour Christmas station again?

And I smile and laugh with tears on my face.

Dripping down my chin.

And he rolls his eyes and walks off chuckling.

Haha!

Madman.

I tell ya.

Veering...

As for those funny Christmas Jar labels I popped in the shop this week...

They are dangerous!!!

The treats stay so fresh in the jars.

I am not a major sugar lover.

But, I was into the jars today.

And I made myself all crrazy.

My sister said, what is wrong with you?

You are crrrrrrrrazy.

And I said.

Well, I've been eating Reindeer p*op..

I can't type the word, or goodness knows what my ads will turn into.

And she just laughed and laughed, and said she needed to make some of those jars.

Imagine, someone calls and asks...

What have you been eating?

Angel toots.

Snowmen's hearts, bwahahahaha!?

;)

Yes, I have.

And.

The bestest.

Elf ears!

Oh my.

Treats in the dark, with twinkling lights, even better.

I love the darkness with only tree lights.

It feels like childhood.

Always and forever.

So, that's a tinge of what I have been up to.

I took out lots of dry plants from the garden.

(2 wheel barrows full)

It is warm in the sun day, but very cool at night.

So the plants know what's up, and they are dying or turning.

But I have my seeds in check.

And I am getting ready.

First winter rain, and in the spring seeds go.

Yes!

Well I best be off.

And as I said....

Lots of new sparkly earrings in my jewelry shop.

I love earrings.

They are such a fun accessory.

I wear earrings all the time.

And, when I make jewelry, I only make things that I would love to wear.

And, I try the pieces on over and over as I make them, to make sure they look good on.

Yay!

What are you up to?

Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me.

 

Love, V

 

 

 

Vanessa Valencia {Jewelry}

Time to plunge into jewels!!

Yes, it's true!

It's official.

My jewelry is now available on-line.

Phew, I never thought I would say that.

But, it's true, it's true!

After years of folks asking me, what's up with the jewels?

Customers wondering if there was an on-line venue?

And regular calls from my mom (who is my best model), telling me people ask her every time she is wearing my jewelry creations, where they can get some of their own on the internet.

There is a place.

Right here.

www.VanessaValencia.Etsy.Com

And...

If you are interested in a tale of jewels?

Here's a lil' story...

Let's see.

My jewelry adventures began around 1992.

I had several pieces of fine jewelry that I didn't love anymore, so I took them all apart and made one great piece.

People would walk up to me while I was out and about, and ask me where I got it.

I promptly became inspired, and started into jewelry making madness.

There are huge gem and mineral shows in Arizona.

So I started going to shows, learning about stones and gems.

And wearing even more jewelry, which I already did a lot of.

Only because I love it.

Love.

Passionately.

In every job I have been in, some male co-worker always calls my gypsy.

Folks comment on my clanking charms and such.

And then, they want some of their own.

:)

All those years ago, I plunged in the biggest way ever.

Buying tools, so many tools.

Endless beads, stones, silver, brass, copper, gold.

Vintage, new, Czech, Venetian, German...

Crystals!

Investing my whole savings account, many times over, at the bewitching gem shows.

I did huge jewelry shows showcasing my pieces.

Tables and tables of velvet displays, towering acrylic displays.

Mannequins.

So many mannequins.

(and mannequin make-overs)

Sculptural necks, display cases, lighting, credit card machines.

Packaging, boxes and sachets, and neverending information.

Knowledge.

Always learning.

And making, making, making jewelry at all hours.

Shows all over the place.

Renting spaces, folks hosting shows.

Trunk shows, jewelry shows, art shows.

Days of putting up displays.

Car loads.

When I met Mister Lovee he took a huge interest in my jewelry making.

As he once was, and his family continues to be, in the fine jewelry business.

And so, he became my right hand jewelry show man.

Putting up displays, taking them down.

Packing the car, unpacking the car.

Hours and hours of work.

Years and years of jewels.

Investments like you wouldn't believe.

Hunts for treasures.

Endless hunts, and treasures found.

Learning about so many things.

And of course, being hard headed as I am, never taking a proper class.

But trial and error over years and years was a good teacher in itself.

I sold my jewelry when I was in college.

Then whilst being an interior designer.

When I left that career, I did jewelry solely, for about a year.

Then...

I went into real estate about 10 years ago, and started doing bigger shows.

Painting, making jewelry and working so hard at my job, all at once.

Then there were bigger jewelry diplays.

Longer hours of putting a show together.

More gem and treasure investments.

Making more jewelry than ever.

And then, almost 6 years ago, I discovered blogs.

As I built a blog and painted and sculpted, I still made jewelry.

But, I didn't share my jewelry online, as I felt it was too daunting a process at the time.

What with everything else going on.

All the details.

All the photos.

Building a blog.

Opening an online art shop.

And, I was still trying to find my way in the internet world.

Until now.

I have plunged.

I am so excited to finally get to share jewels!

I hope this is the beginning of a really fun adventure.

 

Vanessa Valencia {Jewelry}

Now open at...

www.VanessaValencia.Etsy.Com

Yay!

 

 

 

ps:  One other thing.

I accept credit cards in both my art and jewelry shops now.

So, if you don't use Paypal, or would simply like another option...

You can now use your credit card directly, to shop in any of my shops.

Woo hoo! ;)