Menka's Jewelry Blog!

Bead soup from Lisa Chapman

2012-02-10T14:35:00.000-08:00

Lisa Chapman, my partner for the 5th Bead Soup Blog party organized by Lori Anderson has sent me one of the yummiest bead soups. The packet had two beautiful handmade keepsake boxes with the beads in them along with a hand written card from Lisa describing every piece in details.

Lisa loves purple and so do I :) She has sent faceted Amethyst beads, two orange Tibetan beads with integral bead caps, orange dyed Magnetite beads and a variety of glass beads. And you know what, the almond ear wires are handmade by her which I liked the best!

The focal bead is made by a very talented Lamp work Artist Donna Millard. The bronze clasp and charms are made by Lois Wynwood from Port Townsend Washington who makes very cute and reasonably priced charms.

Lisa works with the company that launched the Space Shuttles and when I told her that my son is very much interested in NASA Space program, she sent him a Space Shuttle program patch, a pin for the final flight and a medallion made from the metal flown on the Shuttle. My son is extremely thrilled to receive all these goodies.

I must say that I am really humbled by the warmth and personal touch behind Lisa's bead soup whether it was selecting the beads, packing them, writing a long and detailed card and sending the Shuttle memorabilia for my son.

Thanks a ton Lisa. Looking forward to design beautiful pieces using the soup.

10K in 10 weeks - week 3

2012-02-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

Week 3 has passed and here is how I did

W03 Day1 - 2.21 miles run
W03 Day2 - 1.71 miles walk
W03 Day3 - rest
W03 Day4 - 2.24 miles walk
W03 Day5 - rest
W03 Day6 - 4.00 miles run and strength training
W03 Day7 - 1.12 miles run and strength training

This week I concentrated on increasing the mileage. Ran my first 4 miles with first 3 miles at 9:40 min/mile and the last mile at 9:31 min/mile.

Total mileage so far
week 3 - 11.28 miles
week 2 - 8.40 miles
week 1 - 7.66 miles

Wait to hear how week 4 goes :)

10K in 10 weeks - week 2

2012-02-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

At the end of week 2 of 10K in 10 weeks program I am following to prepare for my first 10K run, here is how the numbers look

W02 Day1 - rest
W02 Day2 - 2 miles walk and strength training
W02 Day3 - 0.98 mile walk
W02 Day4 - 3.21 miles run and strength training
W02 Day5 - rest
W02 Day6 - rest
W02 Day7 - 2.21 miles run

Total mileage was 8.40 miles, which is slightly greater than the week 1 mileage 7.66 miles. This week I concentrated on increasing the average pace and was able to run a mile at 9.31 min/mile.

Let's see how the week 3 goes :)

10K in 10 weeks - week 1

2012-01-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

I recently signed up for Santa Cruz Half Marathon & 10K 2012, scheduled for April 1st, 2012...my first 10K :)

Last year, after my first 5K run, I was struggling to go back to my regular exercising routine and with overall a very busy schedule was trying hard to take out time to exercise. As time passed by I realized that having a goal will help me maintain a routine but the question was whether to sign up for next 5K or double it up and go for a 10K.

My husband, who himself is a marathon runner and very disciplined towards his exercising routine, motivated me to think about a 10K. He created a complete plan for me to do a 10K in 10 weeks which includes running along with strength training. Couple of weeks back, I started following the plan for strength training and resumed my runs. Initially I had no idea about these exercises like fire hydrants, jumping jacks etc and my body was so sore in the first few days but as I am doing them more regularly I am not only enjoying them but also feeling the difference it makes.

As per the race day, week 1 of 10 weeks ended yesterday and here is how it looks like.
W01 Day1 - 2 miles run and strength training
W01 Day2 - rest
W01 Day3 - 2.06 miles walk
W01 Day4 - rest
W01 Day5 - rest
W01 Day6 - 2.5 miles run and strength training
W01 Day7 - 1.55 miles walk

As we talked to our family and friends about this plan, many of them showed interest and decided to try it out. I guess they also needed the discipline, motivation and little push like me to get into a regular & healthy exercising routine! We attend weekly boot camps led by my husband and it feels great to see every body's enthusiasm, high spirits and determination to make a change for themselves.

I am using Runkeeper, to track my runs and exercising routine. It helps me connect with my runner/walker friends and we motivate each other to keep the good work going.

Come back to know how week 2 goes :)

My partner for 5th bead soup blog party

2012-01-17T23:16:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to be one of the participants for the 5th Bead Soup Blog party organized by Lori Anderson. This time, Lori choose the participants through a lottery and 200 lucky winners i.e, 100 pairs, were announced over the weekend. I am paired with extremely talented Lisa Chapman from Beach Cat Beads.

Lisa has been beading for few years and her work includes vast variety of semi-precious gemstones, unique lamp work glass, ceramic, and metal beads. She also loves to play with copper and sterling wire and chains.

Looking forward to the bead soup from Lisa.

Picture courtesy dreamstime.com

5th Bead Soup Blog Party sign ups are on

2012-01-09T15:10:00.000-08:00

Glad that I didn't miss it like last time and signed up for the 5th Bead Soup Blog Party organized by Lori Anderson in time.

I participated in the 3rd party in February 2011 and it was such a pleasant experience to connect with over 200 talented beaders from all over the world.

The rules for participating in the party are pretty simple and all you need is a blog and your creativity. Check the official rules at Lori's Blog.
This time only 200 beaders can participate at the party and will be selected through a lottery. So I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best :)

If you are interested in joining the party, don't wait and sign up today as its the last day for the sign ups.

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-03T10:09:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing all my readers a very happy new year 2012! May the new year brings new beginning, new excitement, new energy and new opportunities for all and you have lots of joy, happiness, health and wealth in the new year.

Did you make any new year resolution?
Well...I did make some :) Not really resolutions but more like promises to myself to do what I couldn't do in the year 2011, like stick to my exercise routine, do more beading, reading and writing, meet friends & family more frequently etc !

Pretty Purple Necklace

2011-09-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

I was playing with purple and blue beads and here is what I ended up designing.

The necklace has purple pearls as the base accompanied by purple Swarovski and blue Lapiz Lazuli. The three danglers in the pendant reminds me of dancing puppet dolls and the use of Silver beads added the shine.

Bead Soup Necklace Set

2011-09-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

Though I missed participating at the Bead Soup Party this time, but I got a delicious bead soup from the organizer Lori Anderson herself. Going by the tradition of the Bead Soup Blog Party, I knew I will be using the focal and the clasp for sure. Also, I really liked the orange color in the Chinook pendant and decided to use Carnelian chips with brown hint in them along with faceted grey Agate and gold beads. Length of the pendant was little challenging and after few tries, I got it right.

This is what I designed.

Here are the earrings I came up with using a Russian gold circle finding.

What do you say about the set?

Bead Soup from Lori Anderson

2011-09-14T23:38:00.000-07:00

When I missed signing up for the September 2011 Bead Soup Blog Party organized by extremely talented and creative jewelry artist Lori Anderson, I was very disappointment with myself to have forgotten to put a reminder. I wrote to Lori to include me to future parties and guess what she replied with...a package in the mail.

I couldn't believe my luck when I opened the package. Inside was a bead soup beautifully packed in a Lori Anderson Designs jewelry box with a personalized note from Lori...what else I could wish for after missing the sign up!

The bead soup included a handmade Chinook pendant, gold filled clasp and beads, purple pearls, Czech glass beads and oval wooden beads.

Thanks a ton Lori for the wonderful gift. Now my challenge is to come up with a beautiful design with the lovely beads I got.

Chicken Soup for the Soul

2011-08-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

My husband loves to read Chicken Soup for the Soul series of books and lately my elder son has started to enjoy them too. The series consists of more than 300 books with vast variety of titles. Each book comprise of short stories and can be calming read for the bed time. Though we have different titles at home, our favorite one is Chicken Soup for the Soul - 101 Stories To Open The Heart And Rekindle The Spirit. Few days back we read a very touching poem written by famous writer and family counselor Dorothy L. Nolte. I am sharing it here and hopefully you will relate to it too.

Children Learn What They Live

If children live with criticism,
they learn to condemn.

If children live with hostility,
they learn to fight.

If children live with fear,
they learn to be apprehensive.

If children live with pity,
they learn to feel sorry for themselves.

If children live with ridicule,
they learn to be shy.

If children live with jealousy,
they learn what envy is.

If children live with shame,
they learn to feel guilty.

If children live with tolerance,
they learn to be patient.

If children live with encouragement,
they learn to be confident.

If children live with praise,
they learn to appreciate.

If children live with approval,
they learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance,
they learn to find love in the world.

If children live with recognition,
they learn to have a goal.

If children live with sharing,
they learn to be generous.

If children live with honesty and fairness,
they learn what truth and justice are.

If children live with security,
they learn to have faith in themselves and in those around them.

If children live with friendliness,
they learn that the world is a nice place in which to live.

If children live with serenity,
they learn to have peace of mind.

With what are your children living?

Photograph courtesy dreamtime.com

My first 5K run - Girls on the Run 2011

2011-05-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, I participated for the first time in a 5K run as a runner. Till now, I was a walker and Zumba enthusiast but running was far away from me though my husband is a marathon runner and has been a regular runner for many years now. For few months, he and my health coach at work were advising me to sign up for a 5K to get into a regular exercise routine. Their point was if I have a goal in front of me, I will definitely take out time to prepare for it no matter how busy my regular schedule would be. And that's what actually happened and I am so glad that I listened to them :)

Early this year, I signed up for my first 5K run - Girls on the Run Silicon Valley as a birthday gift to my dear husband. He was more than thrilled and was all determined to help me train for the run.

Girls on the Run Silicon Valley, in their 10th year of inception encourages preteen girls to develop self respect and healthy lifestyle through running. The 5K run is a non-competitive family-friendly fun run/walk event and all GOTR participants, their family members, friends or community members could join to celebrate healthy living.

Initially I started running on the treadmill and didn't find it very difficult to prepare for the 5K (3.1 miles) but the day I ran on the track outside, I knew I had a long way to go. My husband told me about Runkeeper, a wonderful website to track your exercising routine. I opened an account on the site and also downloaded their iphone app. With the Runkeeper on the phone, I would track all my runs and walks and see how the preparation was coming along. I was able to motivate one of my close friend to sign up too. We did couple of runs together and it felt great to motivated each other for a common goal.

With the preparation I had, I knew I will be able to do it but the question was whether I will be able to keep my target of completing the run in less than 35 min non-stop. It was a strange but an amazing feeling to stand behind the start line with my friend and ~2500 other runners. So far I have gone to many marathons supporting my husband and this was the first time the roles had reversed. It was very motivating to run with girls of all ages, their parents/coaches and other family members. Throughout the run, I had the goal in my mind which kept me going. I was on the top of the world, when I crossed the finish line with my son who joined me few yards before, with 0:33:35 showing on the Runkeeper.

I have heard and experienced through my husband, first run is the icebreaker and then you are hooked on to it. I was wondering the same on my way back when I was talking to my friend about our next run already !!

Girls on the Run Logo - Courtesy Girls on the Run

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

Since I became a mom around 9 years back, I don't remember how many times I have told my mom how much I appreciate what she had done for her children and how much I understand now what it takes for a mom to raise a kid.

On this day to celebrate the epitome of creativity, love and care - a MOTHER, I wish my mom a very Happy Mother's day and thank her for bringing me to this beautiful world, fulfilling all my needs, giving me her ears when I had to share something and at the same time pulling my ears when needed, being my pillar of strength and teaching me how to be a good human being.

Below is the picture of a mother's day gift from my almost 9 year old son. I found it very creative as he has used different eatables to make the wood art and my kitchen will be blessed to have it on its wall.

I wish my mother in-law a very Happy Mother's day and thank her for helping me recognize my talent, encouraging me to follow my dreams and work towards full filling them. I wish all my sisters in-law and cousins a very Happy Mother's day and thank them for showering so much love on their sister and standing by her in life's ups and downs. I wish all my friends a very Happy Mother's day and thank them for being very supporting and encouraging, for sharing their experiences to raise kids and otherwise, and for being such a wonderful extended family.

Happy Mother's Day to All!!

7000 Bracelets of Hope

2011-05-03T23:30:00.000-07:00

When I came to know about the 7000 Bracelets of Hope blog hop from Lori Anderson's blog, it was late to participate in the blog hop but I realized that the campaign is on till December 2011.

The Global Genes Project, working for children's rare disease awareness is collecting blue bracelets to show support and love to 7000 such families. Any jewelry designer, artist, crafter, scouting group, school group, church group, etc. can donate a bracelet along with a personal note of support and encouragement.

This is what I made.

I hope the bracelet brings smile to the family who receives it.

Pravasvani - Business Networking Conference

2011-05-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

I got the privilege to attend the first business networking conference organized by Pravasvani Radio on Saturday, April 30th and I must say that it was a wonderful experience and totally worth it.

For those who don't know about Pravasvani, its the largest Indian Radio in North America serving the South Asian community in San Francisco bay area and beyond. You can listen to their programs on KLOK 1170 AM.

Pravasvani - a Hindi word which is a combination of 'Pravas' meaning immigrants and 'Vani' meaning voice. So Pravasvani essentially means Voice of immigrants. I was really inspired to know what started with just a fun program of one hour - Shyam ka Safar with RJ Din Mani in the first year, expanded to 10-17 hrs of programming in the next year and then by the end of second year Pravasvani took over the ownership of this radio and was broadcasting fun and informational programs 24 X 7 with 25 RJs on board. Local businesses who sponsor the radio programs and advertise on the radio have been instrumental in Pravasvani's journey of growth and success.

This networking conference was a great opportunity for the local business owners to connect with the radio company's management team and other business owners in the area, and of course, meet the very talented RJs in person whose voice we have got so used to. All local businesses - big or small, established or getting started, were invited to take part at the conference and based on the applications submitted, a personal invitation was sent to the business owners. Menka's Jewelry was one of them and I attended the conference with my husband Arun.

We got to meet the Pravasvani management - Raghu Malladi (President & CEO), Dr. Atul Tandon (COO) and Raj Kumar(CFO) (L to R in the image below) and their team of RJs.

From Pravasvani-Apr2011

Some of the RJs from my favorite programs are Din Mani and Shreeja of 'Chai Time Shaam ka Safar', Khushkhushal Khyati of 'Morning Masala', Jagruti Shah of "Khatta Meetha", Dr. Shobha Tandon of 'Health Hour', Bunty and Babli of 'Weekend Live'.

Me with Din Mani and Shreeja

From Pravasvani-Apr2011

We networked with many entrepreneurial local business owners. To name a few, Dinesh Gupta from Jewel of India Mall - first exclusive Indian mall in bay area, Srini Saripalli a Hypnosis expert, Dr. Rita Mitbavkar from UniSmile Dental, Deepak & Mudita Sharma from Fixtroniks, Jyoti Saboo a physical therapist from Pros In Rehab, Sangeeta Shukla a life coach from Polaris Life Essentials, Nathan Notary from Nathan Notary, Pushpa Pathak an expert real estate agent from Los Gatos Realty & Mtg Lenders Financial and Harjit Bhasin from Quick Alternations.

It was very encouraging and inspirational to know every body's story how they started their business, its current state and what they are doing to make it big or expand it further. I look forward to connect with more such business owners in future.

A big thanks to Pravasvani for organizing this conference and I hope to be on radio one day :)

Here's the complete photo album

A jewelry order close to my heart

2011-04-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

Few months back when I heard the good news of my best friend's pregnancy, I was extremely happy and excited for her. I knew that the baby will be special for all of us as first of all she will be our special friend's baby and secondly the youngest of all so we can look forward to lots of pampering and fun with her. At that time I didn't even dream that the baby will bring me my biggest jewelry order till date.

When we started planning for the baby shower few weeks back, my friend called me and told me that she wanted to give a personalized baby shower favor to all the friends coming and I was to make it. For a moment I didn't know how to react. I felt so happy and touched by my friend's gesture that it brought tears to my eyes.
I sketched few designs the same night and sent it to her. She liked a simple but elegant design with a faceted gemstone hanging inside a silver oval in a silver chain to be made with a baby pink rose quartz as she is carrying a baby girl. I shopped around for different shapes and sizes of rose quartz and now I have more pink that any other color in my stash :)

Yesterday I delivered the completed pieces to my friend and she packed them nicely in personalized boxes.

Today was the baby shower. I felt on top of the world when my friend announced that the favors were made by me and extremely satisfied when our friends appreciated it. The icing on the cake was that one of the friends wore it right away...can't tell you how jubilant I felt. And you know, I got my own favor too. It will be one of my precious gifts which I will cherish for long. I wish my friend all the happiness in her life with the new baby and thank her from bottom of my heart for giving me a chance to add my personal touch to her special occasion.

Happy 2nd Birthday My Dear Blog!

2011-03-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

My Dear Blog,
Wish you a very Happy 2nd Birthday!

Thanks a ton for giving me a chance to express myself to this world through you, to write my feelings behind my jewelry creation and beyond; and to connect with very creative people out there. You have been a loyal friend since last two years though I don't visit you that often as I should be but I know you are always there for me.

This year you have grown much bigger as compared to the first year with readers from many parts of the world. You have helped me reach more and more people as friends and followers, learn from their experiences and motivate myself to keep going with their encouraging comments.

As your birthday gift my friend, I promise to visit you at least once a week going forward. Happy Birthday once again!

Mamma can I design an earring for you?

2011-03-01T15:58:00.001-08:00

While I was working on my computer selecting pictures for my bead soup reveal on Saturday, my 8 yr old son who was standing next to me got fascinated by a crystal separator I had used in the pendant for the soup necklace. He very innocently asked me, "Mamma, can I make an earring for you with the crystal bead you have used? Will you finish them today and wear them so that I can see how they look?" He loves to bead with me and in the past have made very nice designs for me as mothers day gift and otherwise too. It was almost 10pm and I had not started writing the blog yet. He was totally thrilled when I agreed. He ran to choose matching beads from his own stash. Yes, he has a whole collection of glass and plastic beads of his own. So he picked the multicolored glass bead from there and I let him pick few Swarovski crystals from mine. I completed the earrings and wore them right away. The happiness and satisfaction on his face was priceless.

It's Bead Soup Blog Party Time!!

2011-02-26T01:16:00.000-08:00

Since I signed up for the Bead Soup Blog Party more than a month back, I was so eagerly waiting for February 26th, The Reveal Day...the day 210 talented beaders from different countries around the world will show what they created with the bead soups they got from their partners. Today is the day...Bead Soup Party Day!!

When I got my bead soup from my partner Francy Inman, I was very thrilled. The beads sat on my desk for a few days and I kept thinking which beads from my own stash could I use to blend with the beautiful ceramic focal and brass textured beads I got from Francy. I choose beige & green colored fresh water pearls & green Agate and started with inner strand of the double strand necklace. Initially I was not very sure of using the ping round beads but when I added them in the center portion between the green Agate, it added a subtle contrast to the otherwise earthy tone.

I wanted the outer strand to be longer than the first strand and with a rectangular focal bead in the strand, I kept it lighter with mainly pearls.

When I added both the strands to the brass clasp, I was delighted to see the outcome.

With a few brass beads still remaining, I thought of making matching earrings to complete the set.

Most of the times, I end up selling or giving away the jewelry I make and once I had to even give away the jewelry I was wearing. But this set is for me to keep :)

Let's see what other party beaders made!!

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things

A big thanks to Lori for organizing this wonderful event and all her hard work that went in it. I am already looking forward to the next party!!

2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life
3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane
4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio
5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations
6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs
7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things
8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe
9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto
10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio
11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas
12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts
13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place
14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings
15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita
16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails
17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found
18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs
19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs
20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats

21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs
22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim
23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu
24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads
25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air
26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio
27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads
28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter
29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts
30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul
31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium
32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus
33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble
34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design
35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle
36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs
37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works
38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights
39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire
40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio

41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's
42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions
43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya
44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations
45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles
46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig
47. Amanda Davie, Articulations
48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady
49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux
50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks
52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde
54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog
55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning
56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings
57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio ** MY PARTNER **
58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem
59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa
60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do

61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog
62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon
63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs
64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals
65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats
66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.
67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash
68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique
69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver
70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit
71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey
72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas
73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix
74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems
75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!
76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium
77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art
78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden
79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads
80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook

81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy
82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria
83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods
84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs
85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries
86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka
87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae
88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy
89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations
90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss
91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous
92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead
93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations
94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof
95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio
96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box
97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs
98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue
99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads
100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings

101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio
102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations
103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios
104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore
105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations
106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky
107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric
108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs
109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading
110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman
111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe
112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo
113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs
114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me
115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf
116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer
117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles
118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie
119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart
120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs

121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven
122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings
123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass
124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks
125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things
126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos
127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee
128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M
129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry
130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads
131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny
132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore
133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog
134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder
135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs
136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies
137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art
138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.
139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter
140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy

141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse
142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings
143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts
144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense
145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique
146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads
147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul
148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me
149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog
150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions
151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T
152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals
153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area
154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs
155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta
156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef
157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye
158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color
159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman
160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory

161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst
162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed
163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu
164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio
165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra
166. Anna Motz, Stunning
167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings
168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads
169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings
170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope
171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones
172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs
173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass
174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre
175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine | Credit River Art Glass
176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog ** YOU ARE HERE **
177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio
178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're
179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux
180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me

181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art
182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog
183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen
184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink
185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin
186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer
187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels
188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry
189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos
190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.
191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry
192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle
193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini
194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse
195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between
196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets
197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts
198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs
199. Karen Williams, Baublicious
200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend

201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell
202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts
203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs
204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads
205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique
206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry
207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads
208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love
209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry
210. Shirley Moore, Beads and Bread

The next party's sign ups begin August 1-3, 2011. Just can't miss it!!

Bead soup I cooked for my partner

2011-02-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

Doing anything for the first time has its own flavors of excitement, enthusiasm and fear. When I was choosing the beads for my first bead soup, I was wondering what will be exciting for my partner Francy. I choose different shades of pink with a blend of Rose Quartz, Agate, coral and Swarovski along with Silver giving her variety of beads to play with. I was waiting for her reaction on the soup before I revealed it here. And as she has already received it and found it very yummy specially the Swarovski, here it is...

Eagerly waiting to see what Francy makes with her soup!

My Bead Soup has arrived

2011-02-06T16:21:00.000-08:00

Past week I have been eagerly checking my postal mail and the package I was waiting for did arrive on Saturday...bead soup from my partner Francy Inman from 8 Second Studio.

I am so excited to see the beads I got as the bead mix looks quite interesting. I haven't used brass in my jewelry so far so it will challenge me to think out of my comfort zone and try something new. Thanks a ton Francy!!

The beautiful focal bead is made by Julianna Cannon an awesome bead maker. I really liked the color combination and pattern on the bead and looking forward to design a double strand necklace using the brass clasp.

I am so glad that Francy has received the bead soup I sent her and liked the beadie goodness of the soup :)

The bead soup blog party is only twenty days away and I can't wait to see what each participant is making. Thanks to Lori Anderson, the organizer of this party that I am getting to know all these wonderful Artists.

How to make different earrings with same beads

2011-02-01T22:43:00.000-08:00

As changing couple of ingredients or spices can give you a new taste in the same recipe, playing with same primary bead but changing the findings or using different complimentary beads can give you new designs for your earrings (and necklaces). That's what I tried when I was playing with different shades of Amazonite recently.

The earrings below have same circular Amazonite bead as the main bead. I have used a blue Swarovski bicone, a crystal studded separator and leverback earwire in one, and small round Amazonites with silver beadcaps and flat fishhook earwire in second. As you can see in the picture, one is elegant and the second one looks more rustic.

In the earrings below, I have used Aquamarine irregular rectangles as the main beads and accentuated them with different color and shapes of Amazonite. In the first earrings, using four Aquamarine rectangles together with round Amazonite at the end gives it a shorter look but in the second earrings, separating the rectangles with small round Amazonite beads and using Amazonite briolettes give it a taller look perfect for a long neck wearer. As you can see, changing the pattern in which you use the same beads can give you a unique design.

My first Bead Soup Blog Party

2011-01-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

Bead Soup Blog Party...interesting name, isn't it? Last week I came across a tweet about an upcoming such party. I read the blog of the organizer - a very talented bead artist Lori Anderson and found the concept very interesting. Always looking forward to connect to more and more talented beaders out there and inspired by one of my favorite artist TheBeadDreamer I signed up for the party.

This is how it works...the organizer announces the date of the party on her blog, invites sign ups, pairs the participants who then send a bead soup mainly consisting of a focal bead, some coordinating beads and a nice clasp, to each other. The participants show the beads they got on their blog, make something out of it, take a picture and post it on their blog on the party day. Every participant hops around to see as many party blogs as possible to see what everybody made on the party day. The whole purpose of the party is challenge the creativity of the participants and connect creative people together.

With more than 200 beading artists as participants, the party is sure going to be an amazing one. A big thanks to Lori for putting all the hard work to make it happen. My partner for the party is Francy Inman an Oklahoma crafter. Looking forward to have a tasty bead soup with her :)

Picture courtesy Lori Anderson

Silver and Chains

2010-12-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

Couple of months back, while I was thinking of new designs for the Winter Art & Crafts Fair I invited my best friend for a dinner at my house first time after her wedding. I was very sure that I would gift her my handmade jewelry and wanted to make something special for her. As she wears very simple jewelry the question was should I gift her what I wanted her to wear ;) or what I knew she will wear for sure. After thinking for a while, I went with the latter. So I made a simple necklace set with Silver chain and Lemon Topaz. I was very glad that she not only loved the set, but she in fact gave me the inspiration for my new designs for the fair. I humbly dedicate my new collection to her :)

In the new collection, I have emphasized on chains and different shapes of Silver more than the gemstones which resulted in simple but elegant pieces. Here is a glimpse of some of them.

From Menka's Jewelry

The necklace set above has a crazy Jasper square as the pendant with Pyrite gemstone. The grey color of Pyrite enhances the grey yellow pattern of the Jasper. Different shapes of the gemstones used in the necklace adds to its beauty.

From Menka's Jewelry

The second necklace set has Amethyst drops with Swarovski crystals. Laser cut oblong Silver pendant compliments the pattern of the chain.

From daughter to her father

2010-12-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Papa,
Its been two years today since you left us for your heavenly abode. Though my mind has accepted the fact that you are not with us physically but the heart always tells me that you are with us all the time spiritually and emotionally. Since you left, I have been trying to find the answer to the question why you had to go all of a sudden but I guess only God knows the answer. Every morning I feel like picking up the phone and calling you to share what's happening in my life - at home, at work, kids activities.
While you were here, I don't know if I told you enough how much I loved and cared for you and how much I respected you for the wonderful upbringing you have given me. Today I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me life's values to lead a successful one, be strong to face its ups and downs with a smile on my face, be helping and caring - above all be a good human being. I love you so much and miss you lots. You were the greatest father, friend and guide for me and will always be!
With lots of love and hugs,
Your little girl

Giving back to the community

2010-09-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes certain losses in life make us realize that life is so short and uncertain and make us appreciate much more what we are left with. These events also help us understand the need of supporting each other and giving back to the community.

Recently in a span of few weeks, one of my friend lost her mom in-law, a family lost their house to a fire in our neighbourhood and my 7 year old lost his little fish which he got from Yosemite camping trip. These three losses are quite different from each other but at the same time quite similar in terms of love and bonding involved.

My friend's mom in-law was ailing for last couple of years but still never showed any signs of pain on her ever smiling face. I really salute my friend who served her till her very last breath with lots of patience and dedication. While I was attending one of the rituals after her mom in-law's demise, I came to know about a neighbourhood house which got completely burnt down due to a fire caused by a gas leak in the garage. I was really petrified to see the condition of the house and the cars standing in the garage. The thought itself that the family in the house woke up that morning due to the fire and at the end left with just the clothes they were wearing, ran shivers down my spine. Then after few days came the loss of my son's little fishy. He worked so hard for catching the fish at Mirror Lake,Yosemite during our camping trip and was extremely thrilled to have it as his pet at home. The fish grew a little in size in next few days but for some reason didn't survive for a long time.

Feeling very sad with all these events, when I came to know about a volunteer opportunity at San Jose's Trace Elementary School which lost its library and many classrooms in a recent fire, I knew I have to contribute as much as I could. From my work, there were two teams going to help the school to reestablish their new library - one to build the shelves and second one to arrange and setup the books. I was in the second team and believe me, those 2.5 hours that I spend at the school volunteering were so fulfilling and the thought that those books will be used by the students to learn and explore new horizons gave me immense happiness and peace. A group of students who stopped by the room next door came and peeped inside the library were so thrilled to see the new books in there...a big delight to the volunteer team! Here are some of the pictures I took there.

New book shelves with new books :)

Packing slips

Pile of packing material

One thing I realized with all these life events that though our lives are extremely busy these days with so much happening around us and so much to do, the least we can do is to take out couple of hours to serve the community and spread smiles around us...relieving our stress too...a win-win situation!!

Peas of the same pod

2010-05-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

The moment I saw them, I fell in love with the Solar Quartz used as pendants in the two necklaces below and while designing one, the second one just followed through. I really liked the mystic look these quartz have with different colors and shapes in the middle of them.

The necklace here has multicolored quartz beads which in a way offset the simple look of the pendant.

From Menka's Jewelry

The peach fresh water pearls and green Swarovski crystals compliment the Quartz and enhance the colors embedded in the center shapes.

From Menka's Jewelry

Simple yet mystic :)

Spring Art & Crafts Fair 2010

2010-05-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Today I am showcasing my jewelry at Spring Art & Crafts Fair 2010 at my work place.

From Menka's Jewelry

Its always an amazing experience to see the 'other creative side' of high tech engineers & colleagues. Some of other Artisans who are showcasing their talents are
Ruth Kim - Handmade Origami
Arlene Robbins - Photography
Raju Yasala - Paintings

To contribute back to community, I will be donating 10% of my sales to Small Steps Foundation - a 501 (c)(3)organization supporting projects targeted at formal and informal education for underprivileged children in India.

This time I was one of the main organizers for the fair and experienced the happy and not so happy side of it. But at the end,a successful fair and smiles on peoples faces tells you that all the hard work and effort was totally worth it :)

Turquoise necklace

2010-04-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

According to world-renowned fashion and color expert Pantone, Turquoise is the color of year 2010 and I simply love this color. Here is one of the Turquoise necklace I recently designed.

From Menka's Jewelry

The gemstones used in the necklace are Turquoise, Agate and Aventurine along with Silver. Faceted button Turquoise beads are enhanced by round Agate and the Silver fringes on the triangular Agate pendant add the mystic look to the necklace.

A simple yet bold necklace...

First necklace set I sold

2010-04-14T23:52:00.000-07:00

While uploading jewelry pictures on Flickr and Picasa, I came across a picture of the first necklace set I sold and took a trip down the memory lane.

From Menka's Jewelry

A simple set made with green olive pearls attached to a silver chain like a bunch of grape hanging from the vine. It was my first wire work project and took me more than two hours to wire wrap each grape :) I showcased it at my sister in-law's house who had invited her neighbours and friends...and the first friend who stopped by picked this set. It was the right kind of green she was looking for and was very happy to buy it. I was pleasantly suprised but extremely happy to have sold my first set...wow!

Since then I have made many sets...but this set will always have a special place in my heart!

Spring Orange

2010-04-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

The color Orange has a special place in my life...may be because it was 'the' color at the time of my wedding or may be because the three men in my life - my husband and my two sons - have 'Sun' hidden in their names :)

My facination for orange reflects very well in the color scheme used for the necklace set here. This set is the first design I have made for Spring 2010. Fresh water pearls in different shades of orange and lilac give it a soft look and yellow Swarovski cubes make it vibrant. An oblong mystic Agate bead is the focal piece of the necklace and the metal used is sterling silver.

Every piece has a story behind it!

2009-12-16T12:27:00.000-08:00

Isn't it true that most of us love stories?
Well...I do...both listening and telling stories!
And I feel very happy when a story gets attached to my jewelry pieces.

The necklace set below is one of the sets I made for the Winter Art & Crafts fair held at my work place in the beginning of December. The set is made of oval cream fresh water Pearls, pink Swarovski crystals and Silver beads.

From Menka's Jewelry

One of my colleagues really liked this set during the show but couldn't decide whether she wanted to buy it or not. Next morning when I went to work, she peeked into my cube and asked me if the necklace or the earrings were already sold. Then she told me that she really wanted to buy it but was not sure about the size. I customized the necklace as she wanted and she was so happy to have the set :)

Featured Artisan @ Winter Art & Crafts Fair

2009-12-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

Really thrilled to be one of the featured Artisans @ Winter Art & Crafts fair at work. First time my jewelry was featured in an article...just can't describe the joy and happiness it brought to me.

The fair is tomorrow, Dec 2nd from 7:30am-5:00pm.
Am I ready? Well...you are never fully ready; always have this feeling that you could have done much more but you can always plan do better in the next one!

I know that its going to be a long day but the excitement to showcase my new jewelry and opportunity to meet other Artisans with their fabulous art work will be rewarding enough to beat the tiredness:)

Here is one of my favorites from the new collection.

From Menka's Jewelry

Necklace made of Blue and Green Turquoise with Silver beads accentuated with an irregular heart shaped Green Turquoise pendant; ending with a Silver clasp.

And here is the complete album.

Princess Necklace Set

2009-09-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

One of my favorites...simple, elegant and royal in itself.
Set in silver with white & olive green fresh water pearls and purple Swarovski cubes.

I am glad that it found a home already and is on its way to NY!

My first shipment...

2009-07-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

Today, I shipped an order of my jewelry to a friend in NJ...my first shipment:)

Feels great to know that my friend, whom I know for past 14 years; when she saw the pictures of my jewelry, right away wanted to possess some of my creations!

The necklace has different sized Tiger Eye gemstones with silver beads and findings. A drop like Tiger Eye pendant with silver around it, adds to the beauty of the necklace.

It took me some time to finally ship the order to her due to numerous other things in my life that kept me ultra busy, I hope she will like the necklace and the small earrings she wanted. Waiting for her feedback now:)

Chandelier Earrings

2009-06-22T23:17:00.000-07:00

It seems time is flying way too faster than I could realize. Its been more than a month since I could post a blog entry. Lots of activity in the past month both at professional and personal front which kept me away from the blog. But better late than never...so here I am :)

During the Arts and Crafts Show at Intel, one of my colleagues bought a Jade and Malakite necklace and wanted me to make bigger earrings for her.

I myself like Chandelier Earrings a lot so right away I had a design in my mind. The earrings have matching Jade and Malakite gems in oxidized silver.

I am glad that I could put the earrings together and hand them to her in time before she delivered her baby :)

1:1 with Craig Barrett

2009-05-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

Last week, I got a chance to attend an Open Forum with Intel's Chairman Craig Barrett at our Santa Clara office. After having a very exciting, busy and eventful 35 years at Intel, Craig is retiring in couple of days. For many of us @ Intel, it was our first and may be last chance to actually meet him in person and talk to him. All set with my camera not to miss a picture with him, I reached the auditorium well in time to get a good seat.

It was amazing to hear Craig talking about various topics involving Intel and current economic conditions; face to face. Later on, he opened the forum for Q&A and answered lot of questions ranging from how he came into Intel, his life, challenges and wins at Intel and of course, life after Intel. He rated people @ Intel as the top thing he is going to miss and while answering my question on that he said Intel's biggest asset are the people here and they are the ones that makes Intel the great company it is.

Some of my colleagues were joking with me that I am lucky to meet two big bosses @ Intel in one week - first our CEO Paul Otellini at the Arts and Crafts Fair and then the chairman Craig Barrett :-)

Art & Crafts Show @ Intel

2009-05-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I participated in Employees Art and Crafts Show at Intel, Santa Clara. The show was a whole day affair from 7:30am-5:00pm with 20 Artisans displaying their art work which included handmade jewelry, purses & baskets, photographs, paintings, homemade honey, soaps & cosmetics. I showcased my handmade semi-precious gemstones jewelry and my sister in-law's mural paintings. Being a first timer, I was very excited & anxious at the same time.

The show had a good turn around with around 300 employees, friends & family visiting it. The best part was that our CEO Paul Otellini took out few minutes from his busy schedule and stopped by each booth to encourage Intel's own silent Artisans.

I made few sales, got few orders and valuable tips & suggestions on how to take nice pictures of my jewelry. The amazing part was one of the ladies found the jewelry set I was wearing as the most interesting one and I ended up giving away the earrings :-) It was very encouraging to see how people really appreciate your creative interests and want to know more about what else you do besides being a hard working employee @ Intel.

You can check out the websites of some of the other Artisans from the show
Nance Wheeler's Fine Art @ www.NanceWheeler.com
Shobana's handmade jewelry @ www.shobanajb.com
Santhosh's photography @ www.clearsnaps.com

My key take away from the show are the acquaintances I made; I am sure few of them will turn into long lasting friendships:-)
And of course, keep a spare set for yourself in case you end up giving away the one you are wearing!

Two Gem Shows on Two Weekends

2009-04-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

I got a chance to attend two incredible Gem Shows on last two weekends.

First one was the International Gem & Jewelry Show @ San Mateo County Event Center. The Show was on April 10th-12th. It had both retail and wholesale sections and one got to see and buy beautiful gems & beads, ready to wear jewelry, tools, stylish displays and much more. The vendors were from all across US. It helps to know ahead what you want to buy otherwise the amazing collections from each vendor easily overwhelms you. I have learnt it over time and now I go to the show with a list of things to buy or look for. I had only couple of hours this time at the show as we were leaving for LA the same evening but still managed to get few findings, gemstones & pearls. You just can't comeback empty handed from the show:-)

Second one was the Annual Show from Santa Clara Valley Gem & Mineral Society. During one of his morning jogs, Arun noticed a flyer about the SCVGMS Annual Show and asked me to check out the show. SCVGMS is a non profit organization that helps its members and community learn about rocks & minerals by expanding knowledge of the earth sciences. The show was lot different from the gem shows I have attended in the past. It had two different sections - one was Gem Show with dealers selling gemstones, tools and ready to wear jewelry; second was an Organized Kids Area with demonstrations and exhibits focusing on children and earth science education.

My 6 years old son is very much interested in gemstones and rocks so we went there as a family. Our main attraction for the show was the kids area with the opportunity to learn about rocks, minerals, the rock cycle, caves, volcanoes, fossils, geology, soil, and much more. He got to go on a treasure hunt in which he found a Shark tooth, made his own rock collection - of course by buying rocks at a very nominal price and spin the fortune wheel; and painted a Phacops rana, a trilobite - official "State Fossil" of Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, we forgot to pick the fossil after it dried :-( We also tried our hands on sand panning to discover gold (pretend one) and gemstones. There were number of Boy and Girl scouts and other kids on a field trip to this show.

The exhibits were wonderful and very creative. You could see different perspective of rocks, gemstones & minerals through each exhibitor; ranging from jewelry, show pieces, play cards, fossils etc. Check out the photo album at

I was always looking forward to join such a Society to broaden my knowledge for gemstones and I am so glad that I finally found one!

Small Steps Foundation Family Walk 2009

2009-04-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes our busy lives don't give us enough time to even think about little things that make difference in somebody else's life. In our effort to make a difference, my family has associated itself with Small Steps Foundation (SSF) charity that works towards providing the education for the underprivileged kids.

SSF is a non-profit organization backed by highly energetic volunteers and is going places in first three years of its formation itself. They organize 2 funraising events every year and their first fundraising event of the year 2009 is SSF Family walk (5K/10K) in Coyote Hills on May 17th. My family plans to walk 10K to support the cause.

You can help us in this cause either by
1) Donating money for this walk on our personal page.
I know times are tough right now, so donation as low as even $5 will also help. Remember...each drop counts and helps to make an ocean eventually.

2) Participating and registering for this walk yourself.

Together we can make a difference...Yes WE CAN!!

Art & Crafts Fair on May 7th

2009-04-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

I am planning to showcase my handmade Jewelry at Spring Art & Crafts Fair @ work on May 7th. Its exactly one month from now and I am sure the time will fly very fast. As the Fair will be a whole day affair it needs lot of planning and preparation...so charging up!

Good for me that International Gem & Jewelry Show is coming to San Mateo on the weekend...time to replenish the inventory this Friday:-)

How I got interested in beads and beading...

2009-04-03T00:24:00.001-07:00

It all started with organizing small beading projects for my nephew's birthday party few years ago.

My sister in-law wanted me to coordinate a bead activity for kids at the party. She got few packets of bright-colored plastic beads and stretch chord. It was amazing to see that not only girls but boys were also interested in making beautiful necklaces and bracelets. I still have the bracelet I made that day :-)

The same year I stopped by a local beadstore. I was amazed by the vast collection of beads the store had. I bought few glass beads and metal separators, made couple of bracelets and gifted them to my sister in-laws on different occasions. They loved them and it encouraged me to make more. I started making bracelets for them as Rakhi every year for the festival of Raksha Bandhan. My niece used to fight with her mom to wear those bracelets and called them 'Her' collection. When I came to know about it, I started sending one for her too.

After attending couple of Jewelry Workshops at the local Community Center, I started making earrings and necklaces too. Soon I was visiting local bead & gem shows and oh boy...our office room was getting stacks of crafts boxes filled with beads, findings and beading tools.

Yes, I was getting hooked onto the colorful world of beads!!

My first blog!

2009-03-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

Finally...I created my own blog!

For a long time, my husband, Arun has been asking me to create a blog to share my thoughts behind the jewelry I make but I kept thinking...nah, its not my cup of tea, where do I have the time to write my thoughts etc etc.

Recently I came across a news article in San Jose Mercury News which talked about couple of very famous blogs - My Romantic Home and Daisy Cottage; and how the writers got into blogging. I must say that I was really very impressed with these blogs and was wondering why can't I do the same...well...at least I can give it a shot for some days:-)

Here I am writing my first entry...stay tuned for many more;-)