Tuesday, October 25, 2005

Halloween Preparations

From this day forward, I am no longer allowed to complain about having an overwhleming schedule, or not being able to complete my daily duties in a timely fashion. I beg for abuse! I cordially invite torture! I bring it on myself and welcome it into my life. My latest project only proves it.

My brother has sent out invitations for a Halloween costume bash in my hometown. After much deliberation, I have, at the last minute, decided to go. As soon as the plans were confirmed, I jumped on the internet to find an appropriate costume. I will be going as Arwen (naturally!) from the coronation scene at the end of the movie. Unfortunately, the outfit contained a crown that was less-than worthy for the elven princess. So I set out to see if my jewelry skills would allow me to fashion one of my own.

What began as an experiment soon turned into a full-blown architectural project. I studied pictures of the actual crown and used wire to make mine as close as possible. DH actually helped by doing the back wirework for me. I then added beaded wires like the original, and the many (16!) beaded strands hanging from it. I can't wait to wear it! It will be such fun!

Please excuse the horrid pictures. I didn't have the time for proper exposure.

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This is the front of the crown. The wings of the butterfly lie right at my hairline.

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This is the side and back view of the crown. All the beads were my favorite part!

Now, I must go add the beads and finishing touches to my lovely gown. Yes, I will take pictures when I am in full dress. I even have the ears!

For comparison:

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Tuesday, October 04, 2005

Haute Water Designs

It's official! My website is live and active! I'm a for-real businesswoman now; my future is in the hands of fate. I still have lots to learn, and I'm scared to death of disappointment. I want this so badly to be a success! So please help me out! Sign up for my newsletter and pass the url along to anyone you think might even be remotely interested.



Now, for the excitement of the weekend: My oldest DD auditioned for, and was accepted to, iPOP, the Internatonal Presentation of Performers! She was one of 40 out of over 500 selected to go to LA in January. She is a very talented, aspiring young actor who will be exposed to over 80 agencies and directors in Hollywood over the course of 4 days!

More iPOP info

Unfortunately, the cost of the trip will be more than we can afford alone. We will be undertaking many major fundraising events to try to raise the money to send her (I will be tagging along, of course - can't miss a chance to see the Pacific Ocean again!). Haute Water Designs will be raffling off several pieces, so look for that soon! We will also be petitioning local (and not-so-local) businesses for sponsors. Anyone donating $100 or more gets free advertising in the iPOP program. We will also be having several events such as carwashes, bake sales, etc.

Anyone with other ideas, or who would like to be a sponsor, please email me! We only have 3 months to raise enough money to go. Any help is appreciated!