In a former tiny bedroom I set up my studio. I work on a large metal table, salvaged from the street, and I hoisted it all by myself onto the back of my truck. I did need help bringing it into the house. It is very heavy, and I was lucky to find it, it's six feet by three feet, in a room barely ten by ten.
In the studio are 5 rolling carts with drawers full of colorful beads, gemstones and other findings. I also build my Retablos or shrines, here. More bins of materials, small wooden boxes, and anything that I have collected these past 10 years that may find their way into a new shrine.
It may be a mess at times, but creativity is not always tidy. I work best in the midst of a small mess. Ok, sometimes it's a big mess. As long as I can clear a space large enough for some beads and my beading board, I am ready to go.
This winter I added to my inventory with purchases from not one, but two gem and jewelry shows, where I always go a little bit crazy. I collect African sand glass, coral and trade beads for myself. I began this business/hobby after a dear friend of mine brought me back trade beads from Ghana. My first necklace was strung on, of all things, dental floss!!!!!!! I still wear it.
My favorite stones are Turquoise, Carnelian, Calcedony, Moonstone, well to be honest, I never saw a stone that I did not like. They are all beautiful. I like to use Hill Tribe Silver in some of my necklaces, broken shells, and other interesting finds. A recent acquisition are beads made from lava.
The Laughing Buddha sitting on my work table has a silver dollar under it. It is for good luck. I have had good luck this month with galleries selling my necklaces and earrings. One gallery owner actually told me she feels that business is picking up. Harsh winter weather up north brings down the tourists. Come on Down!!!!!!! Help our economy.
Fresh Florida Strawberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar reduction ( my first attempt), and Greek yogurt. 
