Connecting the Dots

On my trip to Oaxaca, Mexico in March, I was inspired by color and patterns.  Here is a photo of black pottery on a turquoise background:

I also met many talented ladies in our group and hope I can continue our friendships.

One such friend was Dot.  I was amazed by her beautiful handmade art journal that she  brought with her and she was really good about creating art in it each day of our trip!  🙂

So I asked if she would make me one!  And she said, “Yes!”  I was very excited when this beautiful journal arrived in my mailbox in April:

In exchange for this art journal, I made her this bracelet and earrings – we both love the color orange!  I had to add a few Oaxaca colors to the mix too:

Many of you may not know that I used to make and sell my handmade jewelry.  But I kind of got burnt out on it.  I found it frustrating that people didn’t want to pay for all the time and cost I put into a piece.  I realize now that I was probably in the wrong market.  Anyway, I still have LOTS of beads!  So I enjoyed creating this set for my new friend, Dot.

I loved my new journal but I needed an idea to get me started.  So when Sharon Mann mentioned on her blog that she was starting a new journal with her daughter and niece using the color turquoise on each page, I asked if I could join in the fun!  (Be sure to check out Sharon’s blog if you haven’t already!!  She is one very talented lady and a wonderful friend!)  I was happy that Sharon agreed that I could join her.  🙂

Here is the first page of my new journal:

Now I’m very excited to fill my pages with art!  Sometimes all it takes is one idea to connect the dots and get me started, how about you?

Happy Creating!  🙂