Cindy's Art and Soul

Sweetheart Jewelry

2012-01-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

Some new things... 

2012-01-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

in progress, on my work table...

(i love this video) listening to...

i'm looking forward to taking the day off to spend with family today... 

happy saturday! 

Czech Glass Beads & New Earrings

2012-01-16T13:49:00.000-08:00

In keeping with my organizing goals for this year, I have updated my Czech glass beads pages. These little beads make great spacers! Gorgeous colors and wonderful small sizes.

Now available at Cindy's Art & Soul.

Some new jewelry up on Etsy~ 

Valentines Heart Earrings Labradorite Stones Copper Hoop Earrings

Garnet Red Petal Beaded Shield Earrings Copper Sterling Silver  

Blue Gray Labradorite Gemstone Earrings 

Rustic Copper Heart Earrings

What is "art"?

2012-01-14T13:02:00.000-08:00

Two days of wearing my new "joy" and "inspiration" rune earrings and I'm already feeling more joyful and inspired. Who knows if they were responsible but I'm keeping them on for now. ;)

So... last night I was asking myself those questions that we all (artists) ask ourselves from time to time. What is art? What makes a person an "artist"?

My most enlightened moments are the quiet ones. Walking alone near the lake, in my bed before sleep, in the shower with only the sound of the water hitting the walls to distract me. It's a great time to think, reflect, ground and center.

My thoughts drifted back to years ago when I first began this journey of creative self expression when I joined a gallery. It was really fun and exciting to offer up something I had created and have people whom I admired and respected accept me and what I had made as artist/art. I remember my excitement and telling a family member that I had been juried in and was joining this gallery. Her response to me was "I thought that place was only for artists." (Haaa. right?) I'm sure She meant nothing by it except that in her mind- "art" was a painting on a wall. End of story.

Since then I have come to the conclusion that art (for me at least) is not only creative self expression but so much more. It's us putting our spirit into inanimate objects. It's beauty, horror, sadness, joy and any feeling we choose to give. And then someone else seeing that too- feeling it too. Art is sharing our spirit with others.

I haven't worked with clay much in the past three or four years since I began working with metals. Consequently, I have a ton of clay that went into storage. Some mixed, some in unopened packages. And millions of canes. Ok, I exaggerate... :) But there is a LOT.

Since the new year began I have been trying to organize, sort and purge things no longer needed. Taking things out of my work space that were using up my space and energy needlessly. Not really knowing what I wanted to do with my left over clay, that was packed up and moved out too.

Now- after pondering these questions and thinking back to this time in my life-- I remembered sculpting and the joy it brought me. I really want (need?) to sculpt again. And it will put all (well- some at least) of this unused clay to use. I can't wait to get started. I was so excited last night when it came to me. Almost like and epiphany. As Oprah would say, an "Ah Ha!" moment. I wonder if she's copyrighted that phrase yet...

Sometimes when we feel empty all we need to do is ask ourselves what's missing.

Rune Earrings

2012-01-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

A gift for myself... I gathered these beads (and some others) in a bag over a year ago. Knowing I wanted to wear them... somehow. This set came together almost on it's own. Rune charms are Kenaz and Wunjo. The runes of joy and inspiration.

Choose your own runes and colors ~ available for order on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59293226/custom-rune-earrings-sterling-silver

For Christmas I Wish For A Blue Fish

2011-12-07T09:20:00.001-08:00

There is always hope..

2011-12-03T15:57:00.001-08:00

new key ring... ready to ship or custom, made to order...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/87783147/custom-sterling-silver-keychain-key-ring

New Blue Leaf Earrings on Etsy

2011-11-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

on my work table...

2011-11-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

"Rejoice" defined by Merriam Webster as "an instance, occasion, or expression of joy"

What gives you joy today?

Rusticly Inspired

2011-10-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

I worked on this late last night. Not really knowing where it was heading, just feeling inspired. Now in the light of day I can see what it needs. More to come...

Fridays Features

2011-10-07T14:52:00.000-07:00

New bracelet just listed on Etsy

Some wonderful treasury lists to check out

Cyrillic Font Choice

2011-10-03T14:29:00.001-07:00

I am very happy to say I now have a Cyrillic font set for custom stamping orders! I'll be working to get my pages updated with this new option.

Hello October!

2011-10-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

We are ushering in fall quickly here in WA. The rain is here and here to stay I do believe. It is normal and very natural for us. You have to love rain to live in WA right? Or at least be able to tolerate it on most days. For me, on days like today it's almost a comfort. Like a familiar friend, a cozy feeling, being inside looking out. It's a clean fresh smell in the air, a greener lawn and flowers, wind on my face. I belong here.

I managed to get a few new listings up this past week.

Sunday is the day I give myself permission to do whatever I feel like.Today, I really feel like organizing.Being of the creative type, I get into whirlwinds of inspiration and nothing gets put away. It eventually comes to a point where the creativity gets stifled from the disorganization and I have to stop without choice. I think it's almost to that point in here. Magazines and books stacked up, drawers left open, jewelry that needs bagged and tagged, charms that need to be listed- sitting in a pile by the computer, a stack of CD's I ripped sitting on the arm of my big brown comfy chair, beads, beads, everywhere beads. You get the idea.

Peaceful Sunday blessings~

Cindy

Goodbye September

2011-09-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

Goodbye September~

Treasury Lists On Etsy

2011-09-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

Some recent treasury lists on Etsy. Please click comment and share. Spread the love!

Copper Rings Necklace

2011-09-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Ah... I am so happy it's Friday and I have things done that needed to be done today. It feels good to check things off my list. I am calling it a day..

Newly listed today~

Happy weekend everyone!
Peace~ Cindy

Yes She Can!

2011-09-22T17:13:00.001-07:00

The Good the Bad and the Beautiful

2011-09-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

The day started out with a beeping cell phone at 5AM. But that is ok- I got to see a gorgeous sunrise this morning. Unfortunately I took this picture on the side of the window with the screen in it. Oh well- I was excited! Haa!

My aunt Ida is 85 today. She suffers from Alzheimer disease. I'm not sure she knows me anymore. She hasn't spoken in two years. But I will be visiting her later with her favorite meal- a Burgerville cheeseburger --and a hug! But who knows, maybe she does know me..

Peace~
Cindy

A Sneak Peak

2011-09-19T18:34:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous day it was today. We had sunshine and it was in the mid to upper 70's. I love Washington in the fall. John now has most of the house painted. Hopefully he'll be able to finish before the rains start again. It's looking quite nice so far...

As for me, I am making the jewelry. And that's the easy part. Getting things photographed and listed on two websites- that's a whole other story! I have a basket full of things that need to be listed. But there is only one of me and I like to sleep and eat... So meantime I will post some things here that will be up.... soon.

Sunday...

2011-09-18T16:32:00.000-07:00

It's cold and raining outside. A perfect day to stay in and drink hot tea. I love having this huge window in front of my work table so I can watch the rain. It's very relaxing.

On my worktable now...

I am not sure if it needs more. I may have to just stare at it a few more hours, or days to know for sure. I kind of like it simple though. The message is simple and I suppose the bracelet aught to be as well. Inspired by the Ramones song: "I believe in miracles" (because I'm one)

I'll get some proper photographs and get it listed this week in the bracelets section of my website.

I think it's time for more tea.
Peace~ Cindy

The Dark Side of Pretty On Etsy

2011-09-17T11:10:00.001-07:00

Infinity Hoop Earrings with Moonstone

2011-09-16T17:07:00.000-07:00

New earrings just listed on Etsy.

Pure copper fused and forged infinity hoops with beautiful white moonstone beads...

Eternity Ring Necklace

2011-09-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

Bohemian Forest On Etsy

2011-09-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

Bohemian Forest On Etsy

The Pursuit of Happiness...

2011-09-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

Spent a long weekend at the beach...

There's nothing more rejuvenating then standing in front of the ocean. We came home late on Sunday through lots of traffic. But that is OK. I always come home feeling renewed and ready to work on all my projects.

Today is a jewelry working day. Currently working on new pairs of my "Sofie" earrings.

And enjoying Listening to Young and the Giant...

Drinking some raspberry tea...

Oh how the little things make me so happy.

Peace~ Cindy

New Lampwork and Silver Bracelet

2011-09-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

Just listed~

Have a wonderful weekend!!

~ Cindy

Love Song...

2011-09-07T13:04:00.001-07:00

New jewelry...

2011-09-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

New Treasuries...

2011-09-05T13:58:00.001-07:00

Meatless Monday

2011-09-04T16:02:00.001-07:00

Yes- I know it's SUNDAY! :) This is just a little head start. I am feeling hot hot hot. Who said summer was over? They lied! Well, if you aren't bbq'ing outdoors, this is a super yummy recipe to get you through lunch or dinner.

And let me say- I am not a vegetarian. But I am eating mostly non-meat and cutting way back on my dairy these days. And I think that meatless Mondays is a spectacular idea and so easy to do- there's no reason not to.

I don't remember when I first heard the term "meatless Monday". But I will tell you how it started. Meatless Monday is a non-profit initiative of The Monday Campaigns Inc. in association with the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health Center for a Livable Future . Meatless Monday was founded in 2003 by marketing professional Sid Lerner.

Taking at least one day a week to not eat meat is good for you and good for the planet. According to the "movement", you can help yourself by lowing your cholesterol. "‘Plant based foods tend to be higher in fiber than animal proteins. They tend to be much higher in antioxidants and perhaps lower in some of the carcinogens that we know to be present in meats." says Toby Morris, a Registered Dietitian.

Anyway, I don't need to talk you into it. You already know it's a good idea! So- on to the food!

For this recipe you will need:
1 package of Rammen noodles (not the flavor packet)
1/2 yellow onion
1/2 cup edamame frozen
1 carrot
1 celery stalk
1/4 cup frozen peas
1 cup Quorn Chik'n Tenders
1/4 cup sliced almonds
3 tbls Olive Oil
Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce
Honey
Low Sodium Chicken Broth

----------
Chop your veges to a manageable size. Heat the oil in a large skillet on a med-low temp. Add your veges , noodles and Chik'n. Gradually increase the heat to medium.

Add your teriyaki sauce and a splash of the broth. Keep adding splashes of both as the pan dries out to keep things moist. Cook 12 to 15 mins. Add a squirt of honey to taste. Add in the almonds near the end of cooking time.

Serves - 2 or ONE really hungry person. ;)

Enjoy!

Yes I do

2011-09-03T11:53:00.001-07:00

Adele - Rolling In The Deep

2011-09-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone! ~ Cindy

Faith Hope Love - New Bracelet

2011-09-01T12:19:00.001-07:00

Faith, hope & love. New copper bracelet just listed on www.cindysartandsoul.com

Please stop by and hit the "share" button!

Blessings~
Cindy

Off With The Faeries

2011-09-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

Perennial Moment

2011-08-31T11:58:00.001-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/ODAzMzkyOXw2NTI0MjQyMDA/perennial-moment

New Hope Necklace

2011-08-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

I have often gotten requests for this charm as a necklace. And again today. I decided to go ahead and work one up for sale. The one shown is currently available on Etsy and will be available for order on my website by the end of the day.

I am working hard to get all my designs listed on my personal site. Slowly but surely...

New earring listings are up today and more to come by the end of the week. My goal is to have them all up and available before November for Christmas ordering and delivery. For those who'd rather shop with me directly .

I will be keeping many designs up for sale on Etsy and in my ArtFire shop. But my goal is to have more and one of a kind designs only available at www.cindysartandsoul.com So stay tuned!

I'm also working on a new brighter look to my images and listings. I hope you enjoy them. My new Samsung camera is helping immensely!

And on that note- I would like to say a big thumbs up to Samsung customer service! I have never been more pleased with a manufacturer during product warranty or replacement. I sent my old camera in to be fixed. And even though it was no longer under warranty I was able to get it repaired for only $50.

It turned out that they were no longer manufacturing the part that was needed for repair. So they offered me a replacement for the same cost- only $50. And then they called me back later that day to offer me an upgrade on the replacement because I mentioned that I was using it for macro photography. Wowzers! How wonderful is that?!

I am so happy. :)

Peace~
Cindy

HOPE

2011-08-29T09:46:00.001-07:00

New Hope Silver Bracelet

2011-08-26T11:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! I have some new updates to share. I've been working on updating my web site all week. It's never done! Haa! But I am happy to have a few new listings up and a few pages fixed.

New bracelets added today. A new "hope" sterling and fine silver bracelet. Ready to ship!

Rings that were previously only available on Etsy are now available on my personal site here: Handmade Rings

Thanks for stopping by!
Have a great weekend everyone!
~ Cindy :)

Bracelet Updates

2011-08-23T13:32:00.001-07:00

I started off the day intending to update just one or two pages of bracelets... but like always I find page after page that needs updating and it's now *hours later. It feels good to get the time to be able to do some editing there. I really do love working on my website. It's a nice distraction. Like watching a good movie- it can really take your mind off things. I think that's why I get lost in it some days.

This is one of the bracelet listings that is updated and ready to order. I love this simple design. When I wear jewelry I generally layer, and this is a good layering bracelet. It can be personalized with any words, names or phrase along with a tiny spiral, heart, peace sign or star image upon request.

Peace~ Cindy

New old beads...

2011-08-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

So I made these a few years ago- but just pulled them out. I have a desk full of clay beads now ready to photograph and list. Mostly focals but some smaller beads, including these pink & black mixed millefiori ones. This set includes 60 beads in a great small size. The strand contains a mix of different patterns including four pink ribbon beads. I'll be listing more as I have time this week.

Enjoy the day~
Cindy

TGIF! Happy Friday and New Jewelry!

2011-08-12T09:50:00.000-07:00

A new pair of copper hoops. These earrings are all fused pure copper. I love melting the copper and being able to work without solder. I added in these sunny golden yellow glass beads to off set the rustic blackened finish of the hoops.

My little yoga faerie. This necklace is not new- but I am offering it on a new chain type now which will lower the price a little bit. :) I found a lot of folks didn't care for the big 2mm bead chain so this will be a nice alternative.

Please enjoy your weekend! Do something fun and live in the moment... I plan to! Blessings~ Cindy

Earthy Brown Quartz Necklace

2011-08-10T18:36:00.001-07:00

Just listed on Etsy. Another new creation. I started this back in June before my surgery. I am so happy to have finally finished it and have it available. :)

New new new...

2011-08-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

Some new jewelry, recently listed on Etsy. I am in the process of switching over to a lighter brighter background on all my images. If you have a moment, I'd love to hear what you think about it. So far, I'm liking it better. It's a nice change anyway.

Getting back to work now.... Enjoy your day! ~ Cindy :)

Sold~

Sun Shiny Day!

2011-07-26T12:31:00.001-07:00

Good day! So grateful to be up and feeling better! Finally. My recovery took longer than anticipated. My doc tells me there was no text book line to tell us how long it would take. My surgery was not a normal average one. I am still healing but at least I am up and in my studio today.

New updates will be coming the first of August!

Meantime, please take advantage of the summer sale still going on in my Etsy shop and also my personal website, which includes 15 percent off everything.

More new changes in August. I will be reopening my ArtFire shop. Artfire has a lot to offer artists, and buyers. A great bunch of people there who are very supportive and friendly. I can't wait to get my jewelry shop up and running again. I'll be posting links here when I have some listings up.

If you are a seller and have a basic shop there, you should be aware that they will no longer be hosting basic shops after August 15th. I think it's a wise move on the side of ArtFire and will eliminate a lot of wasted space for them. Shops that were just sitting there doing nothing. Good for them for making that decision! I hope it works out for all of us!

Other changes for me will include a new look for my jewelry shots. My style has always been sort of a rustic feminine look. I hope to keep that while incorporating a brighter more professional look to my images and the overall mood of my stores.

Most of my made to order and custom jewelry items will be back in stock on Etsy after August 1st. Including some new items with the ever changing economy in mind. More copper, brass and even some bronze items mixed with my traditional sterling and fine silver necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

If you are looking for some particular style or have some inspirations to pass along, please do contact me. I love working with my customers to create their visions of a special piece.

More to come!

Peace~
Cindy

Still Here...

2011-07-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Good Saturday to everyone! I am still resting and moving a bit slow. I had a surgery on the 22nd of June that involved my appendix, gallbladder, and more. It was a lot for anyone, I think.

I am doing well and getting better every day I believe. I am trying to keep a positive outlook and not focusing on the pain. And although the boredom of rest gets to me most days- I switch my focus to what I will do when I feel up to it and I feel better. I can't wait to get back to my jewelry making, walking, spending time in the sun and with family and friends. Looking forward to all of that!

As my grandmother used to say, I am counting my blessings. Being grateful each day for all that I have. Including my health and well being. Today I am grateful the sun is shining and I have left overs to eat- so I don't have to cook!

Meantime I am leaving my shops open with things I have already made and that are ready to ship. Since I am moving slow- and packages may not go out for a few days I am extending a 15% discount through the month of July with a coupon code "SummerBreak". Good for both my Etsy site and my personal site.

Blessings~
Cindy Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

R&R

2011-06-17T12:26:00.001-07:00

I'm finishing up the last of my jewelry orders today and heading to the beach for a little (much needed) R&R before my surgery next week.

I've decided to leave my shops open. Etsy will have only ready to ship items while my personal site will still have made to order items available. All items and orders will be filled upon my return to work.

I expect and am hopeful to be back to some light work at least by July 10th. Provided all goes well. I want to say a great big THANK YOU to all my wonderful friends, family and customers who have been so supportive. Your positive words and encouragement mean more than you know.

I will ship the last of my orders on Monday and will answer emails and convos as soon as I am able.

I hope everyone gets to enjoy the weekend with something fun! I am going to put my toes in the sand and breathe some fresh air! :)

~ Cindy

Live Love Laugh

2011-06-16T07:13:00.001-07:00

New listings

2011-06-15T18:04:00.001-07:00

Hey! I have some new listings up today. I'll continue to mail out jewelry orders until next Monday. Then I'll be out of commission for a couple of weeks. My shop will stay open and if possible- I may have a family member mail things while I am unable to work. Stop by! :)

Blessings~
Cindy

I'll be away for a few weeks...

2011-06-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

I will not be talking any more custom or personalized orders until July. I will leave my shops open - but I will be away from June 20th until the second week in July. I'll have a notice up after the 20th with more info. Thanks everyone! Please feel free to contact me if you have questions.

Something Blue...

2011-06-10T17:34:00.000-07:00

Inspired...

2011-06-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

I've been off work a lot lately due to health issues. I finally got back to it a little bit this week. Trying to finish up some orders. I sat down to work and this design just... I don't know how to describe it... it just enveloped me. I could do nothing else until it was done. Those inspired moments are so incredible. When you see something in your head and feel it in your heart... and you create it with your hands.

I picked up a couple of these white bronze skull charms at a show last year. I just loved them. And I am not usually drawn to skulls or "Gothic" type imagery. I didn't question it though- I just grabbed what the artist had there and bought them.

The little "live" charm comes from my own struggle to live in the moment. I often find myself living in the past or the future. I worry about things... a lot. Dwelling on the past gets me no where and I work at letting it go. I'm one of those "what if?" people. But, I am working on it. I am like everyone, a work in progress.

This necklace is one of a kind and will not be re-created. Available on Etsy. (sold)

Blessings and peace!
Cindy

The Band Perry - If I Die Young

2011-05-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day

2011-05-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

As mother's day approaches I find myself reminiscing about my own. She passed away two years ago and it seems like forever now. I miss her greatly.

My mother was a beautiful woman who had a lot of love. One of my most fond memories of her is from around age 4 or 5. She would come tuck me into bed and rub lotion on my hands. Funny the little things we remember...

Its not until we loose someone that we really know what they mean, sometimes. I would give anything for one more hug. In fact, I remember the last hug I gave her. She was so frail and thin. I was afraid to hug her too much. I think she must have weighed 90 pounds.

Peace and love to my mother. I miss you everyday.

Blessings to all the moms who do so much and who are loved more than they know.

New Things...

2011-05-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Looking Towards the Future...

2011-04-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

Buyers beware. As time goes on and silver prices skyrocket- I am noticing more & more that sellers are not only using plated materials but are not really being upfront about it. I have seen listings on Etsy that list the material as "love". Really? I just shake my head... wow. I want to be really up front and clear about my materials and what I use to make my jewelry. Always and forever.

My newer listings will state plain and clear- metals are: ....

As time permits I will edit all my listings to include this statement. Previously I had listed it in the descriptions, casually. And in the "materials" section on Etsy.

I am looking into more cost effective alternatives for the future. As silver continues to rise, I want to keep being able to offer beautiful jewelry at competitive prices. And I will always list exactly what I use for metals.

So far I am interested in bronze, copper, brass, stainless steel and some new metal alloys that look very promising. In fact, I should have some of the new alloy in today. Yeah!! :) I am very excited about it because #1. it is not plated and #2. It looks just like silver but will be available at a fraction of the price. Similar to what is called German silver. It contains copper, zinc and nickle. And let me tell you - it is gorgeous.

Stay tuned...

Blessings~
Cindy

Creative Energy

2011-04-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

Finding creative energy everyday can be a job in itself. For me, creative energy is also emotional and spiritual energy. Sometimes you have to work at bringing that to the surface. Mundane things and everyday life can stifle creative energy. ONE thing that I know helps me is to clean my work space. The act of cleaning also releases negative energy. Cleaning is somewhat mindless and can be a wonderful way to feel productive when you aren't. And once it's done- you can sit back and marvel at what you've done. :) And begin the process all over again... getting out beads, metal, firing up the torch.. ect. Now, grab a cup of tea and enjoy your new, clean space. Peace~

Silver still on the rise...

2011-04-20T10:29:00.001-07:00

Today's Precious Metal Market: Gold - $1501 (+10.50); Silver - $45.35 (+1.75); Platinum - $1804 (+24.00).

The Rise of Silver

2011-04-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

Some unfortunate news for the jewelry industry. Silver has more than doubled in price per ounce in the past 12 months. Last year analysts were predicting silver to reach $50 an ounce eventually. I would be happy if it stopped there at this point. As silver continues to rise so will jewelry prices, unfortunately. If you have something in mind to buy, I would suggest doing so before too long. I will continue to offer silver pieces in my shops for as long as I can at the most reasonable prices I am able to. Thank you to all my wonderful supportive Friends and customers!

A Warm Summer Breeze....

2011-03-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Is what I am dreaming of today. I can hear the rain outside. Not a good sign when you have a morning walk planned. But it wont stop me today. A hat and a coat- and I'm good to go! :)

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

In honor of the day I am offering 30% off any lucky item in my Etsy shop. Today only take 30% off by entering code: LuckyGirl upon checking out. Sale includes my lucky clover earrings, lucky clover hoop earrings and my lucky girl charm necklace.

New Jewelry This Week on Etsy

2011-03-10T08:57:00.001-08:00

Spring: Green & Purple

2011-03-05T08:31:00.000-08:00

As spring nears and I wait for the weather to warm,
my hands reach for brightly colored beads....

New Jewels

2011-03-03T15:21:00.000-08:00

New ~

Available exclusively on my website~

Blessings~
Cindy

Beads And Supplies

2011-03-01T07:29:00.001-08:00

I am getting out of the bead supply business. I hope to be able to sell of the stock that I have quickly and then focus on my jewelry line. I've reopened my Etsy shop to move some products. It's going to take some time to get everything back up and listed. I'll do a few each day. Please check back over the next couple of weeks. Lots of great copper and silver beads, findings and supplies. While I am open, I'll be offering some handmade and custom charms as well. I hope to have most of my supplies clear out and will be closing up the shop permanently this summer. Thanks to all my wonderful customers for your continued support over the past three years!

Blessings~
Cindy

Winter

2011-02-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

We are headed into March and winter has finally decided to arrive. I took these pictures on my morning walk a few days ago. I've never seen the lake look so amazing.

Rain

2011-02-16T09:15:00.001-08:00

It is raining out side... again. I love the rain actually. I love the sound of it , and the smell it leaves in the air, and also what it brings- New growth and green... lots of green. We live in WA state on the southwestern corner. The only drawback is the gloomy skies we often see. For that reason alone I am longing for spring to get here- soon.

Heading out for my morning walk now. Please enjoy some of these beautiful treasury lists on Etsy... And have a GOOD DAY! :)

Changes

2011-02-15T07:32:00.000-08:00

Day 21 of logging food and fitness at LiveStrong.com. I am convinced now more than ever that accountability is the key to success. I have lost three pounds in three weeks. I'm right on target. It's not a huge loss, but it is a start and what I am aiming for - a pound a week. So I have to be really grateful for that.

I wont say it's been easy. But I find it fun and challenging to find new, low calorie and healthy things to eat. I am a self proclaimed junk food junkie. I love the high fat foods. I was raised by my aunts who were southern women. We ate fried everything! And it was good!

I am learning to live without fried food and I'm actually enjoying it. The longer I go without junk food, the less I miss it. I gave up soda pop about 10 years ago. At that time, I only drank pop and coffee. Nothing else. So switching over to water was a huge change. But all these years later, I have stuck with it. I have one cup of coffee in the morning., two cups of green tea during the day and as much water as I can handle.

I've been suffering a creative block for while now. I feel like I finally broke through that yesterday. Moving on- and making positive changes helps all aspects of ones life.

But with the rain (I can hear) outside, I wont be able to get much new jewelry listed yet. I did manage to get some nice shots of these peridot hoops the brief two minutes it stopped raining yesterday. I'll have these listing in my Etsy Shop later today.

Blessings~ Cindy

♥ Happy Valentines Day! ♥

2011-02-14T10:37:00.000-08:00

♥ Happy Valentines Day! ♥

Enter happyVday in the coupon code section on Etsy to receive 10% off your order today!

A Better Life

2011-02-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how change is sometimes unexpected, and painful and often leads to bigger and better things?

I'm not one of those people who believes in fate. Or who believes that everything happens for a reason either. I think sometimes bad things just happen and there is no sense in it. But we cant dwell on that or we would go crazy.

But I also believe that if we can find some thing, even some tiny little thing to learn from a situation, or we can grow from it- then it's not a total loss. I always try to look at the silver lining and what I can learn from any given situation. This way of thinking as also helped me find peace in uncomfortable and painful situations in the past.

Remembering the time I was fired... that was a bad day all around. But out of that came many days of creativity and eventually led to my making beads and jewelry. So I have look back on that and be grateful. For who knows where I would be or what I would be doing now if I had not lost that horrid job.

It was a complete blessing, unbeknown to me until some time later.

I feel some changes happening lately. Some within me some out side of me. Wondering how these changes will effect the future and I can only imagine the blessings and gifts to come....

Blessings~ Cindy

Welcome February

2011-02-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know why but I love February. Maybe it's all the hearts and love going around? Or maybe it's all the red you see everywhere. Red *is my favorite color. In any case, it's here and I'm feeling so happy and inspired today.

As with every new year I have been evaluating my health lately. The holiday jewelry orders kept me in my chair for long hours day after day for weeks. My body finally said (very loudly) this is enough of this! When siting became as painful as standing I knew I had to take some action.

Since then I have been back at my morning walk and the pain of inactivity has been replaced with tired muscles of working out. It's a nice feeling.

My daughter, who lives in another city is inspiring me each day to do more and go further. She recently told me about a website where you can track your fitness and calories each day. And it's free! I'm sure you've heard of Lance Armstrong. The website is LiveStrong.com.

It's been an amazing inspiration in making important and powerful changes in my eating and exercise daily. They have every food you can imagine in the database to calculate your calories from... and you can even input and save your own recipes. It will calculate the calories for you.

Eating healthy is not so difficult... once you wrap your head around it.
I feel energized, optimistic and determined. Welcome February! Bring it on!!

New New New Jewelry

2011-01-22T12:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! January has been busier than anticipated. And that's been wonderful. I've said it before and will say it again... I love what I do!! :) I have added lots of new jewelry to my Etsy shop and also to my personal website. Please stop by and say hello!

Blessings and hugs, Cindy ♥

BIG SALE!!!

2010-12-22T12:54:00.000-08:00

Cindy's Art & Soul is having the biggest sale ever! (Etsy only) Now - through Dec. 27th. I am offering buy two get one FREE. It's the end of the year (almost) and I'm ready to start making room for new things. When you make a purchase- please wait- and I will send you an invoice for two of your three items. (lowest priced item is... free)(made to order and custom items are not included)

All my shops will be closed Dec 28th through Jan 3rd for winter break
to spend time with my family.

When I return I will be clearing out all my polymer clay handmade
millefiori canes and clay. If anyone has interest, please check with
me. It's all going!

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday! Blessings to you!

♥ Cindy

Bead Show Eye Candy

2010-12-20T12:41:00.001-08:00

Working...

2010-12-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

I'm working on finishing up the last of the Christmas orders today and tomorrow. This has been a busy month! I look forward to taking a few days off to spend time with family next week. I've taken down all made to order jewelry from my Etsy shop and put both AF shops on vacation. I'll be back after Christmas with some new designs and promotions. Please check my shop then. I'll post here when things are ready. :

I want to wish everyone a very joyous holiday! And say giant THANK YOU to all my wonderful customers for your continued support! I love what I do and am so grateful you have allowed me to keep doing it year after year! Blessings to you! :)

Ok, I'm getting back to work now! :)
Have a wonderful day! ~ Cindy

October Wrap Up

2010-10-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is almost over? There's an excited anticipation in the air for Halloween this weekend. You can feel it on the wind. Along with that is the thought of upcoming holidays and the rush of the season. Speaking from past experience- it sure does fly by. Seems like Christmas has arrived... just a few days after Halloween! Don't let this happen to you! If you have handmade custom jewelry in mind. Now is the time to order. Not the second week of December. ;)

I will be taking custom orders as long as possible into December. But that does not guarantee a Christmas delivery. So order early! :)

This month has been full of unexpected activities. I am looking forward to the coming month and working on new jewelry. So many designs... and only so many hours in the day!

We live in Washington state and let me tell you- summer is over- fall is here and so is the rain! The rain is coming down like the heavens have opened up. While I do love the rain, and all the greenery that goes with it... it does make it difficult to take photos outside.

I took this photo this morning on a window sill. I might have to work on this some more... I have been spoiled these past few months with bright sunny days and plenty of light for great pictures.

Blessings and a safe holiday weekend to all!
♥ Cindy

I Do Keepsakes Treasury on Etsy

2010-10-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to foxygirlboutique for including my poem bracelet in this lovely treasury! :)

Somebody - Depeche Mode - by Luh

2010-10-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

Sea of Love

2010-10-09T15:46:00.000-07:00

Home Again...

2010-10-03T15:00:00.001-07:00

What a great weekend...

Late Night Jewelry

2010-09-30T09:12:00.001-07:00

I am never great under pressure- but yesterday my adrenaline kicked in or something. I got so much done! Including a special order bracelet for Stacy... thank you Stacy! :) And some earrings for my good friend Mary Jane.... Today will be much slower and I'll be walking on the beach later... so it's all worth it!

There is always Hope

2010-09-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

A new twist on the hope bracelet. Inspired by my own need to be reminded not to loose hope. This bracelet holds one of my all time favorite quotes. Available on cindysartandsoul.com later this week.

The inspiration....
One night the Oprah show was playing on the TV, while I was typing away on the computer not paying attention really. When suddenly I noticed Oprah saying- "the message is" over and over like she was trying to get my attention!

I had to look over and then she said- "The message here is, there is always hope. There is a way, no matter who you are, out of what appears to be no way. Change is possible."

This was such an important and inspirational message for me, I wanted to share it. It's one of my favorite Oprah quotes as I heard it at a time when I needed it the most.

Yard Work

2010-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

No more BIG THORNY shrub. It will go to a better home out in the country... no seriously. We are transplanting it at a family members house. :) I will miss it though- it is so pretty in the fall...

TGIF!

2010-09-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a great week! Lots of creating and fun things this week. We took the afternoon off on Wednesday and drove up to Mt St Helens. The air was cool but the sun was shining- it was a perfect day. We stopped off at a river that runs along side the road to see the fish. They are spawning now and the waters were full of little salmon.

Getting up to the Mt always inspire me and gets the creative energy flowing. I have added several new pieces to my website and also to my Etsy shop. Please stop by when you have a moment! :)

New things coming today- I am working on a few new projects and inspirations from customers that I am really looking forward to. More to come....

Last week I ordered some lovely enameled head pins from Sue beads.

I LOVE them!! So pretty and colorful! I was totally inspired to make these earrings last night-

These will be going up for sale today. Please watch my earring section for these.

TGIF! Hope everyone has a great weekend too!

Can You Ear Me Etsy Treasury

2010-09-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful treasury! Thanks to Rebecca Moon Designs for creating it AND for including my blue chalcedony drop earrings! Please stop by-- click comment and share!! :)

The Earth Laughs In Flowers Etsy Treasury

2010-09-20T10:48:00.001-07:00

What a gorgeous treasury this is! Love the colors and picks for this one! Thanks so much to Wild Woman Jewelry for including my laugh necklace! Please stop by- click, comment and share! Getting to the front page means a great deal of exposure for all artists.

Thanks so much! Cindy :)

Destsash Time!

2010-09-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

I have decided to let go of things I have been hording and holding on to these past few years. These last few years have been a time of big change and you might even say metamorphosis for me. My creative energy and art have taken a completely different direction. So out with the old in with the new!

I have barely started going through what I have. But as I do, I will list more and more.

The things that I have are:

instructional videos on sculpting, cane making and also a children's sculpting video.
Bricks of unopened Fimo, Kato and Cernit clays
Bags of mixed polymer clays sorted by color family.
Loads and loads of pre-made millefiori canes
Scrap clay.
Incredibly soft and wefted doll hair
Back issues of Expression, Bead & Button, Polymer Cafe, Art Doll Quarterly and a few others
Green, Cobalt and brown glass bottles with sprayers and droppers in 2oz and 4oz sizes
Spools of suede, hemp, memory wire and Beadalon
Clay tools new in packages- Kato Marxit, wooden tools, Kemper cutters, Polyrollers
Oh! And gemstones! Lots and lots of beads!

So if you see anything that interests you- please let me know and I will get it listed as quickly as possible. I have a lot to go through. It's going to take some time.

All things will be linked to my SUPPLIES page and will be listed there. And may eventually be moved to sell on ArtFire if need be. But I am hoping I can just list everything once and find good homes for all.

Stay tuned!

Season of the Witch Treasury on Etsy

2010-09-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Pistachio and Chocolate...

2010-09-14T15:48:00.001-07:00

A lovely treasury list featuring my green glass earrings. This treasury was created by Silasstubbs on Etsy. Please stop by and click and comment when you have time! :)

Go Max Go Vegan Candybars Giveaway

2010-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

Who wants to win chocolates? Yes, I said CHOCOLATES! :) Stop by my good friend Susmitha's blog to find out how you can win some candy!

Do it! :) go there now...

My Work Table Today...

2010-08-09T17:14:00.001-07:00

Yes, I was working on some clay beads today. This was my work table today...

Copper... yum!

2010-07-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

I love copper. I'll admit it. It's so rich and pretty. Especially when paired with sterling silver or some pretty gemstones. Combining blue and aqua colors with copper is my fav. :) Here are some new earrings I made this past month. Stop by when you have time!

The Centaur's Mountain - Treasury on Etsy

2010-06-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

Personalize Without Color Treasury on Etsy

2010-06-29T11:05:00.001-07:00

Nightshades In The Woods Treasury on Etsy

2010-06-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

Checked Treasury on Etsy

2010-06-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

Gabriella - Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings X Large

2010-06-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

New this week! A custom order completed! I am really happy with these and they were so much fun to work on. They are for a woman who wants a larger earring. At 4.25 inches long- you will see these! :) Sparkle and shine!

Stop by Etsy when you have time!

Chocolate Decadence

2010-06-18T10:25:00.001-07:00

A Shift In Energy

2010-06-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have talked a lot about my struggle to eat healthy. I am still at it, still struggling. But I do feel a shift in energy this week. Maybe it's anticipation of summer, I don't know.

I have never been one to exercise or eat right on a regular basis. I think there was one year... but that was long ago.

Every time I get ambitious to eat better, I look for new exciting things to try out at the grocery store. Well, new to me anyway!

This week was no exception. I bought a Texmatti Rice blend. Surprisingly it cooked in only 15 minutes and was really delicious! I mixed it up with some left over taco flavored chicken from the night before and added a tablespoon of my favorite salsa- Mrs Renfros mild. I tell you- it was the BEST thing I have had all week! I loved it!

It's really amazing to me, even after all these years what a little exercise and better food choices can do for your mental outlook and attitude. Not only do I feel better physically, but I feel energized spiritually as well as have a great deal more creative energy.

So even though the sun has yet to make an appearance today- I feel happy, refreshed and am ready to create wonderful things!

Metal Lovers Treasury

2010-05-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Metal Lovers by AdobeSol on Etsy

New stuff!

2010-05-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

I received some new items yesterday and have them listed on Etsy now. I love using tiny beads to accent my clasps and handmade earrings. I was really happy to find these little 2mm faceted sterling beads.

I debated whether I wanted them for myself or if I was going to offer them for sale. I finally decided that they would be a great asset to my supply shop and that other people will be happy for them too! :) I haven't had a chance to use them yet. But I think they will look fab oxidized!

But my favorite new things are these pure copper leaves!
Are they gorgeous or what!

Again- I had to agonize a little whether was going to keep these all to myself or not! LOL! But they too are available on Etsy now. :) I cannot wait to use these- I've got some ideas involving earrings and necklaces.... Stop by when you have time! And don't forget I have new copper chain in as well!