Wow! I can't believe it's been two years since I last posted. A lot has transpired since then:
I retired.
I've gotten more involved with my church, enjoying bible studies and working with the women in different ministries and events.
I've got to travel some and spend a lot more time with family. It's been neat, especially since the family is growing. I even got to meet cousins I've never seen or knew I had.
I've been blessed with 2 new grand daughters, Mercia (Aug 2010) and Eliana (Jun 2012). My son and daughter-in-law now have a total of 6 kids!
Two years ago today, I took a leap of faith and traded my home (and 1.4 acres) of 18 years for a smaller home with a much more manageable size yard. This was exactly what I needed.
Also in those 2 years, I have repaired, re-arranged, painted (I even painted the sky on my bedroom ceiling), changed out fixtures, dug-up old shrubs, planted a garden (it's much bigger now) and many flowers, got rid of old stuff, etc.
One thing I really like...I was fortunate that my new place came with this awesome building out back....perfect for a studio.
These are my work areas. It gets kinda of messy when I get into torching. Glass gets everywhere.
I use a Carlisle Mini CC torch. It's a surface dual fuel mixing torch with a nice bushy flame.
Some of my glass stash.....and my kiln. It's a Paragon with a hinged door on a bead collar. It's got a digital programmable timer....so much nicer than my analog one. I don't have to babysit it. The finished beads I make go into the kiln to anneal for several hours to strengthen them and prevent stress cracks.
Whew! It's been a good 2 years. There's been ups and downs, trials and successes. I've learned alot, especially about myself and trusting God. Thank you God for your provisions, the lessons and your abundant blessings.
