Everyday Pearls

getting ready to go to winter wonderland.

2011-11-30T08:02:00.001-08:00

I am still in Costa Rica, soaking up the last few days of heat before returning to serious winter in Whistler. It is exiting too to be able to travel from one paradise to the next. Portrero is not so unlike Whistler, it has a very active social scene. A bit less formal but it is amazing how people create their own entertainment if needed. Last night we had a blast with Karaoke in a local neighborhood pub called Maxwells. So much fun, hilarious and some of it amazingly professional. I laughed so hard, my tummy muscels hurt.

Below a few pics of my project, I tiled the kitchen backsplash and it turned out wonderful, it gave me great satisfaction to be able to do it myself. My two neighbors, George from Vancouver and Brian from Pemberton gave me great advice and lent me their tools.

We also visited a new place north of here, it is called Lolas and it has the most serene setting right on the ocean . They are finishing the road and it should be easier accessible in the near future. They rent bikes, stand-up paddle boards and ocean kyaks. It has a very protected beach, safe to swim, just like Portreo bay.

I also got a very nice fruit from our gardens, a pic below, I do not know the name of it ( my friend calls it the snot fruit) it is slimy but makes the best smoothie. Another pic of bananas being born in my garden.

bananas being born

delicious "snot fruit"

Lola's

Lola's at Los Catalinas

my tiling job

Trade November for July

2011-11-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

I am so lucky to spend all of November in a beautiful warm country, a true extension of our summer, or the summer we never had. I am in Costa Rica and the temperature here is always between 28 and 35 degrees, just wonderful.
Check it out www.VRBO.com/189673
below a few pics

Infinity pool at nearby resort

Playa grande

new pillows at Cabana

more new cushions and pillows

my new table and barbecue

angel trumpets

angel trumpets in paradise

My new sparkly bracelets

2011-09-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Swarovsky crystals are so great, they have their own special sparkle. and if a piece of jewelry gets a bit dull from the oil of our skin, just wash the piece with soap and water and it glitters like new.

sterling silver necklace with aqua and clear crystals

Long chain 28 ', with cluster of crystals

Tanzanite and clear crystals on sparkly ss chain

It is great to have some sparkle on our bodies, it looks great, dressed up or down.

A great summer after all.

2011-09-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Looking trough my photos, I must say, summer was great. I was lucky enough to spend time on the boat in the Gulf islands and Desolation sound and the weather was always nice. To be on the water on a sunny day it feels like being surrounded by the color blue.

We also did a few beautiful hikes, Joffre lakes with Heidi was the highlight. The color of the lakes are absolutely stunning, the turquoise and different blues, surrounded by a palate of various greens is like eye candy.

The Farmers market was busy this summer. It is much larger than last year and it is still going strong until Thanksgiving.

Vanilla Clothing in White Rock and Prince George are selling my jewelry. Vanilla clothing is a really elegant/funky ladies clothing shop, I love their edgy choice of designers. check it out at www.vanillaclothing.ca

1st Joffre lake

the beautiful blues

Long dangle caged pearls

caged in silver

laid back circles

I can see clearly now, quartz crystals with swarovsky heart on long chain

Rosequartz, the stone of love

Swarovsky Castle

2011-07-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

Last week I was so lucky to spend 2 night at the beautiful Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon. It was a real treat. First, it was the warmth of the Okanagan that welcomed us and then the beauty and sparkels of the wellness hotel.
All the sparkles inspired me to create a few more pieces with predominantly swarovsky crystals. I love making the rings and matching earrings.
We also visited a few wineries, my favorite is Noble Ridge, it is situated just a bit south of OK Falls, across from blue mountain. The wine is excellent, probably because my sister Kay works there.
Below a few pics of my new creations and the inspiration of it.

sparkles in the Lobby

Noble Ridge Winery

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the beautiful landscape of semi-precious stones.

2011-06-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

Even as a child I was always intrigued by rocks and stones. Now I get to play with them on a daily basis. I love to match them in a way , so the color of the stone gets enhanced and does not clash with a design.

Below a few new simple designs for everyday wear, complimenting to different outfits.

Come and check things out at the Art walk, I will be in front of Ruby Tuesday, or at the Shipbuilders plaza in North Vancouver on Fridays from 5-10 or every Sunday at the Whistler Farmers market in the Upper Village from 11-4.

New rings and large sweet pearls.

2011-06-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love the large swarovsky pearls, the look so decadent in their perfectness. The caged earrings make a statement with any outfit and the big pearls look perfect with my old favorite jeans.
The rings are my newest design and I love creating them , because it never turns out as planned.
Copper seems to be many peoples favorite, i thunk it looks especially nice on brunettes or redheads.

The night market in North Vancouver is lots of fun, beautiful surroundings, good music, good food and lots of nice vendors and artisans. It is on every Friday night at the Ship-builders-plaza in North Van, from 5-11. It is a pretty cool new area of North Van, with lots of Restaurants and Pubs. Take the Sea bus from Downtown or park in the area, Lonsdale has 1 hour free parking and free after 6 pm.

Night market North Van with my beautiful assistant Heidi

New Pearl ring

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Sweet caged pearls

My fav necklace

Copper with faceted Fire agate

North Shore Green Market

2011-06-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

The Stanley cup is over, with a bad aftertaste, the creation of a few hooligans. The good side about it is: most people will rally and defend our beautiful city of Vancouver, it is good to see how many people are pitching in with the clean up efforts.
Tomorrow, Friday, June 17th is the opening of a new community event on the Northshore. It is the Night Market at the new Ship-Builders-Plaza, it starts at 5 p. There will be entertainment, food and arts and crafts, my jewelry included. The market is going to run every Friday throughout the summer and fall.
Also the famous Farmers Market in Whistler has its debut this Sunday, it will be even more fun than previous years, with more food and entertainment. Everydaypearls will be there all season, represented by Heidi, Chantal or me.
Below a few pics of a new design and pictures of a more peaceful Vancouver .

wire wrapped pink pearls

perfect pearls on silver wire with swarovsky crystals, a very comfortable light necklace

new, swarovsky pearls, a perfect fashion statement for a spring outfit

peaceful morning on Lost Lagoon

new plantings in stanley park

the positive on a very cool spring

2011-05-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

we are all sick and tired of this cold and wet spring, but like everything, it has an upside too. The colors of bushes, trees and flowers are absolutely phenomenal. Vancouver is at its colorful best. Tulips bloom for a couple of weeks, not just a few days like they do in Whistler. I did spend a few weekends in Van and took lots of pictures of the grandiose display this cold spring presents us.

stanley park

Jesse, my grandson being a disco-boy in kindergarden

Stanley park

Coal Harbor

election blah blah

2011-04-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

With all the negativity on the news, the election bla bla and spring not arriving, I found the link below a real picker upper, watch it to the end I will guarantee , it will make you smile .

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXvJ8UquYoo

My new shoes, once in a while one just has to splurge on shoes, so did I. The brand name is ART and they are a piece of art, they are comfortable too, witch is the bonus and they also make my big feet look pretty normal, almost small.
I got all exited about wire wrapping, below a new ring and a matching pendant

Think pink

2011-04-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

This time of the year one must think pink, there is so much around. Driving trough Vancouver on a sunny day is like somebody turned the colors on, pink is predominant with all the Japanese cherry trees blooming. It is so refreshing after our long winter, especially the long winter in Whistler. The Christmas cactus in my living room is even is even thinking pink. Spring is definitely in the air.

The woodpecker pecking on my metal chimney makes an awful loud sound, I am hoping he will attract a nice woodpecker girl very soon.

New designs

2011-03-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung and so has my creativity, I am all exited to make rings. I create them with different gauge sterling silver wire and an assortment of pearl and swarovsky crystals - the designs and possibilities are limitless, very exiting.
The wire wrapped pearl as a lariat necklace seem to be a big hit, easy to put on and not heavy around the neck or on the wallet.Another great find for me was the swarovsky heart, very classy and always sparkling, if it looses some of it, just wash it with soap and water and its original sparkle is back.

Hawaii and Tsunami

2011-03-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

On my trip to Hawaii I realized how fragile we really are.We actually had to go to higher grounds with the Tsunami warning, I turned out to be much less then expected. Still it makes one realize, it could happen anywhere, anytime. We were on the Big Island of Hawaii, on my first day, I saw a family of wild boars, wild horses and many wild turkeys. It is a very diverse Island, I even saw snow.
We also visited a farm with all kinds of animals, a few pics below.

Meanwhile my thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan, they behave so controlled and dignified in the wake of a quadruple disaster- earth quick/ tsunami/ nuclear treat and now being so cold for the the survivors.

New paint

2011-02-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

Painting your walls a new color is so rewarding, and while you are at it , why stop after the walls have a new and refreshed look. Paint some older looking furniture and re-position a few- voila a new living room.
I had so much fun the last couple of weeks doing just that, instead of new blinds, I put up patterned white curtains, it makes a nice display with light when the sun is shining and creates a romantic look at night when the windows are dark looking holes.
Below a few pictures.

I will get on with new jewelry designs very soon.

My favorite sites

2011-01-18T18:00:00.001-08:00

A big influence in my life is food and preparing food, it is part of my professional life. Creating a nice meal in my point of view is an art form, a way of relaxing after a busy day. Understanding food- what would work together in taste, color, presentation and of course nutrition is a way of expressing ones taste and creation. Reading recipes and knowing trough reading if it is a great concoction is a matter of practice and understanding ingredients.
If I need a recipe for my catering business I usually go to epicurious.com, they have everything in multiple versions.
For my daily inspiration in the food department I signed up for Vegetariantimes.com, I get a nice recipe delivered everyday, with some gluten free versions. I love their ethnic influences in their recipes.
Attached to vegetarian time is the yoga journal with a daily inspiration and encouragement to do just a few yoga poses a day. 15 minutes x 7 = ???
I also follow swiss-miss.com, she is a swiss designer becoming Newyorker, lots of interesting ideas from a younger designer.
If I really want to get carried away by my computer I log on to Stumble upon. It is never ending , it can be very interesting and you can loose hours just being amazed about all the info and wonderful happenings.

Press 'refresh' for your internal computer

2010-12-29T15:31:00.000-08:00

After the holiday craze, we all have a need to press the refresh button. Going out into nature is a very satisfying way for me. I took a long hike on my favorite bike trail, it is in the Forrest with about 2 feet of snow, some of it was hard packed and some still soft and deep. In observing myself, I found that I was very impatient to get there but of course I got frustrated, when I sunk deep sometimes, it took about 1/2 hour to calm down and really start to enjoy the journey. 2 hours later I was very relaxed and happy, I can highly recommend it. Attached a few pics of snowy Whistler.

My new chair

2010-11-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

Getting things in Costa Rica is not so easy, there is just not much merchandise around, partly due to 35% import tax, also the buying power of the general public is not here. I got really exited when I found this wonderful, modern, orange chaise lounge in ultra suede. It looks perfect in my living room, adding a splash of color to an otherwise serene looking room.

I painted the 3 canvases with Romero Britto images, my favorite at the moment. It feels like painting by number, but still one can become very creative with patterns or circles. I call them Happy paintings.

Little Switzerland in Central America

2010-11-18T07:57:00.000-08:00

from the coast we travelled up to the Arenal area, I could not believe the scenery, it looked just like Switzerland. We even ate swiss food.
Arenal Volcano is steaming steady, its cone shape looks majestic in the surrounding rain forrest. We also did the zip trek, it felt like I was in the movie Avatar, zipping up to 70 km per hour trough tunnels of lush
rainforest giants.
After the exiting day we relaxed in the hot pools of Tabacon, a park like maze of waterfalls and natural hot tubs.

Costa Rica

2010-11-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

November is the month that should be transformed into another July, because we cannot do that in Whistler we need to adjust and go to July climates. Costa Rica is perfect this time of the year. The rainy season just past and everything is green and lush. It was alway my dream and now it is starting to happen.
I do check the Whistler weather from time to time and get exited about the new snow falling.
The first night here in CR, I had a beautiful butterfly in my room, it was dead the next morning so I could take the pictures. The owl markings on his belly are to keep predators away, nature is so smart. Our first sunset celebration was complimented with two large whales showing up and doing their elegant show for us.

My daughter Heidi will be selling my jewelry at the Bizaar Bazaar Nov. 26 and 27 at the Whistler Conference center and I will host my Christmas/Jewelry party on Sunday, Dec 12 from 3-7,with lots of goodies and nice ideas for Christmas presents.

Another world

2010-10-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

I was lucky to be invited to a wedding again, to the wonderful world of Cactus and Turquoise, and a town called Carefree. It is amazing how a landscape can change within 3 hours of flight time. On my first walk in the morning I encountered a family of Havelenas (wild pigs) mama, papa and 4 unruly kids, too bad I did not have my camera with me. The desert colors are so soft and gentle looking, the reality is very harsh. I would not walk bare feet anywhere. Below a few pics of this wonderful dry world.

Wonderful Trip

2010-10-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful trip to my home-country, almost a month. We celebrated my Moms Birthday in grand style, about 30 wonderful people, 8 siblings with some of their offspring's. It was great to see everybody doing well. Also met my newest sister in-law and their little guy for the 1st time. Cute is the word for both.
After all the festivities we did a "tour de suisse" for 2 weeks. It was magical; the weather played with us and we experienced the ever-changing landscape with the multitude of gourmet meals.
Everything seems to be very organized efficient in this tiny country(smaller than Vancouver Island).
Now I am back and getting ready for an exhibit at this weeks Bridal show here in Whistler and a rather large catering gig and a Thanksgiving dinner for my family.
a few nice pics below

Empty Nester

2010-09-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

It is happening. I am going to be an empty nester, starting September, the girls will be gone to live in Vancouver. To minimize the shock I am going away too, I will be visiting my family in Switzerland and travel and explore for a couple of weeks. We will be celebrating my Moms 80. birthday, all my siblings will be there for the great party on September 12.
Heidi will be doing the market for me, it means I have to make some extra stock.

my most elaborate creation

Summer almost over.

2010-08-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

When the PNE is on in Vancouver, dew on my deck in the morning and many back to school commercials on TV, we know exactly that it is almost over.
This is my first year in almost 30 yeas that nobody in my house goes back to elementary school. It is kind of nice, a little bittersweet at the same time. But the circle begins again, Jesse is starting Kindergarden in North Vancouver.
We are still enjoying the beautiful weather, the girls and me went stand up paddle boarding. Much fun and really not difficult to do. The boards are hollow and light , it is easy to balance, probably a little more challenging in the ocean or on a lake with waves.

Lately with the hot weather I enjoy this wonderful, juicy, savory watermelon salad.

Watermelon salad: for 2-3

about 4 cups of cubed watermelon
2 green onions chopped
bunch of mint leaves chopped,( I added cilantro instead)
1/2 cup of crumbled Feta
sliced black olives if you like (did not have any)
dressing:
1/4 cup balsamic
1/2 olive oil
hot stuff like Tabasco or any other hot sauce to taste

bon appetit

Farmers Market

2010-08-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

Our Farmers Market here in Whistler is an experience. There is so much wonderful fresh produce and fruit available now, it is a pleasure to look at it, and of course enjoy it. I love the local blueberries, there are still some cherries, apricots and peaches and already some apples. Top that with some kettle popcorn from Sargent Popper, maybe some Whistler chocolate or a Gelato.
Besides produce my must buys are Pure Bread, (the best bread) Maison Cote for his rubs and truffle salt.

There are many crafters and artists, me being one of them with my jewelry. It is good to be there, especially when the weather is nice.

Last Sunday I bought some organic beets with the tops still attached and I prepared it the following way:
1 tablespoon oil
1 very large green onion chopped
1 bunch fresh beets, chopped and separated into roots, stalks, leaves
1 block organic tofu, cubed
chive salt and pepper ( Maison Cote)
touch of hot sauce
sautee onions in oil for 2 min, add roots for 4 min, add stalks for 3 min, add leaves for 2 min, season with salt and pepper and add the cubed tofu and stir gently until tofu is heated trough, adjust seasoning and enjoy. It is enjoyable for your eyes too, red and very green with pink tofu.

Holidays

2010-08-06T08:20:00.001-07:00

with all this nice hot weather I was lucky to be on a boat up in Desolation sound, where the water reaches a temp of up to 30 degrees, it was absolutely wonderful. The scenery is breathtaking. We met up with some friends and rafted together, we shared many elaborate dinners and lots of wine.

On August long weekend we visited the Filberg festival, it is 4 days of music, artisans and good food in a beautiful setting, an old farm right on the ocean in Comox. (www.Filbergfestival.com).

More copper

2010-07-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

Copper gets a lot of interest at the farmers market, I love the color, but it does not look good on me. It looks best on brunettes or redheads. There is a lot of info about benefits of copper bracelets, below I copied one of the articles.
Copper jewelry is sometimes sold with claims of health benefits such as improving the skin or alleviating the pain of arthritis. Copper has a long history of use in the realm of health, and modern science has confirmed many of its beneficial properties. Many people have experienced relief from medical conditions as a result of wearing copper jewelry, which is sometimes magnetized as well. However, the effectiveness of copper jewelry has not been scientifically proven, and detractors believe that it is not the best way to reap the health benefits of copper.

My eyes are on the lookout for this rich color, the rock picture is from my street. Also a few new creations

Summertime/Artwalk

2010-06-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Even dough the weather has not necessarily been like summer, the atmosphere is completely summer almost to the date.
The skunk cabbages are at a record level large and beautiful, the baskets are blooming despite the rain and my girls are going out and are enjoying Whistler.
The first farmers market happened this past Sunday, my girls had to do the Fathers day-thing, so I was at the market myself, it was fresh and fun, lots of people from everywhere. To be there gave me a new sense of community belonging.
Another community event is coming up this weekend, it is the opening of the Art walk in Whistler, it is a well attended community evening with artists displaying their best and being on the venue where their art is displayed. It is on Friday June 25 from 6-9 PM. I will have my newest creations at Ruby Tuesdays. Hope to see you there.

Graduation

2010-06-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

My baby girl Heidi graduated last Saturday, it is hard to believe. Time went by sooo quickly. We had a great celebration at the school with the sun shining for the occasion. The ceremony was well done for the 74 students with a nice cocktail party(dry of course) to end it all. While we were sitting around and chatting, a momma bear and her two cubs arrived and grazed in a very orderly fashion just outside the back doors.

For dinner we went to Jordans Crossing at the Nita Lake Lodge. It was perfect, the food was excellent (a bit nouvelle cuisinish) with a lot of attention to presentation, the ambiance was perfect, calm and peaceful, nobody rushed. I can only recommend it. Little Jesse (41/2) played many telephone games and had a little run outside once in a while.

Colors

2010-06-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Walking trough my neighbourhood, looking at tree trunks and rock walls is a inspiration . There are so many different shades of grey and green in a trunk, when you start looking you can even see pinks and purples. just a wonderful combination that mother nature has created.

The rocks are another beautiful combination of perfect color matches. everything is complimenting, nothing is hard on your eye.

changing landscape

2010-05-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

over the long weekend I visited Roche Harbour in Washington. A very delightful old town with lots of history. Whit in walking distance to the harbour, they have a sculpture garden. Lots of wonderful art and sculptures, but what really impressed me was a very simple display of a crude easel with a mirror on it. The artist stated that it is of mixed medium.

Rosequartz

2010-05-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

2 blogs ago I wrote about Citrine being the birthstone of Taurus, I was wrong, it is Rosequartz, Citrine is for Gemini.
In my crystal book it says: Rose quartz is the crystal of gentle love, it has an affinity to the heart chakra. It is also the crystal of peacemaking and reconciliation. It will ease pain and tension, heal emotional wounds, such a grief, stress , fear and anger.
Lucky for those born under the sign of Taurus. Rose quartz is also called the children's stone, because youngsters will instinctively choose this crystal among a number of other stones.
It is also very pretty and looks so lovely and gentle in its pink translucency.

It lends its beauty to many jewelry artists. Above a few of my creations.

Mothers day

2010-05-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful Mothers day with 3/4 of my girls here, Michelle went to Hawaii. They made a nice lunch, I was just sitting at the counter, watching with my oldest daughter, who is also a Mom. It was really special, does not happen often. Heidi bought a giant Yam and instead of cooking it, Chantal quickly drew a face on it, stuck a flower on its head and voila , a centerpiece. After lunch we took Jesse to the new playground in Whistler.

I also did some new designs this past week, above a picture of green Kyanite with a silver clasp I made. Jesse with his favorite auntie and of course Mr. Yam.

Citrine, birthstone for Taurus April 21-May 21

2010-05-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

Besides the healing properties of Citrine , the golden yellow quartz looks fresh and clean like spring.
According to my "Healing Stones" book ;
Healing properties : Citrine is excellent for the liver, spleen, gall bladder and digestive system. It reduces toxicity in the body, it will help you to think clearly and put your problems in perspective.
Divinatory significance : Heralding joy in every aspect of your life, make time for any creative talents, as they may prove lucrative.
Protective functions : the positive energy of citrine drives away darkness and night fears, protects against negative people.

Above a couple of my citrine jewelry creations

new favorite recipe

2010-04-27T15:51:00.003-07:00

Years ago I tried to introduce Quinoa in our families diet. The girls did not like it, I am glad they do now, because it is so healthy and it tastes great too.

Quinoa is an ancient traditional grain grown at 12'000 feet in south America. It is gluten free, has a low glycemic index and provides all of the 8 amino acids. It is as simple as white rice to prepare, it is great in salads or any way rice is prepared.

Our favorite is a mixture of equal quantities of cooked Quinoa, cooked green peas, steamed and cut asparagus with a generous amount of green onions and mint or parsley. The dressing can be a simple vinaigrette, equal amounts of lemon juice, good olive oil and salt and pepper. A bit of fresh ginger is great too.

Above a couple of my newest creations.

new favorite recepe

2010-04-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Birthdays

2010-04-14T16:02:00.003-07:00

3 birthdays in less than a month in my family, my baby Heidi is 18(hard to believe, she thinks , she is old now), Chanti is 20 (another big one) and Michelle is 27.

Sometimes I wonder where the time went, but then I realize we did a lot of things, experienced many fun events, boating , camping and many get to-gethers with friends and family.

All my daughters are very artsy; above a few of their creations.

best ever chocolate mousse

2010-04-08T18:49:00.003-07:00

I also do the occasional catering. Chocolate was a big factor in my previous life. I want to share the following recipe.

After many versions of egg free chocolate mousse tryouts, I finally got the most perfect, easiest, quickest, tastiest mousse.

for 6 portions

2 Lindt Berne 100 g chocolate bars( silver package with blue print)

300 whip cream

1 Tbsp sugar

boil 100 g whip cream, remove pot from heat, add the broken chocolate, let sit while you whip the 200 g of whip cream with 1 tablespoon of sugar, whip to a soft consistency, the cream should just hold inside the wirewhip. Stir the choc/ cream mixture to a shiny consistency (no lumps) and fold it under the whipped cream. Scrape into a bowl and let it set, cut up some strawberries or raspberries , sprinkle with some sugar and wait for dessert. Arrange a dollop of mousse on a bed of marinated strawberries ( in a pretty bowl or martini glasses), decorate with berries or whip cream or a delicate wafer, or all of the above.

Bon Appetit

Wednesday/ every day

2010-04-07T09:56:00.002-07:00

The Law of least effort is the focus on Wednesday, according to Deepak Chopras "SEVEN SPIRITUAL LAWS OF SUCCESS' . I love the least effort part, especially the way he describes the example.

Nature's intelligence functions with effortless ease... with carefreeness, harmony and love. Look at the yellow beauty of skunk cabbage emerging out of last years compost, no judgment or resistance, it just pops up in spring.

I remind myself of that carefreeness when I try out something new, including creating new earrings. Above my newest earring creations.

Winter again

2010-03-29T13:11:00.003-07:00

After a wonderful , warm (very warm) 2 weeks in Costa Rica, I have come back to total winter.

I was in Vancouver yesterday and the city is in full bloom, sorry no pictures. Then I come up here to Whistler and we have total winter. Getting back into winter mode, I decided to go for "First Tracks", it is early upload, have breakfast on top and when the mountain patrol gives the OK , we get the first tracks on the mountain. My friend and me were there just before seven, there was already the biggest line up, well, they promised 20 cm of new snow and they got more than that, so I think lots of people had the same idea as me. We skipped that because we were at the point to be caught off by their 650 person limit. We went to the line up at Blackcomb and when it was time, it was well worth it, almost too much of the good thing. That is why I am home early to do some work.

2010-03-04T11:43:00.002-08:00

The party is over and we are shocked how quiet it is suddenly. It was such a great event, much better than most people expected, it united Canada in a very positive way, finally we saw some patriotism. The closing ceremonies with the gig of the malfunctioning cauldron was the perfect amount of humor, it definitely brought light to such a worldwide event.

One of the things I really admired is the graphic designs of VANOC. The assortment of greens and blues with the flowing designs of the participating sports gave the event a really fresh look. The colors are in my mind, above is my newest design.

Surreal world

2010-02-22T09:02:00.004-08:00

Life in whistler seems to be a bit surreal, so much going on. Lots of great concerts, tomorrow Damien Marley is in the Village square, we had the Barenaked Ladies, Blue Rodeo is doing the final next Sunday, this are all free concerts, I listed only a few

The Mountain is the only place that is not busy, no line ups, not even on Saturday, the conditions are superb and the weather could not be better.

2010-02-16T14:25:00.006-08:00

Olympics

it is finally happening, we were waiting so long and so much talk about it. I was lucky to go to the opening ceremony in Vancouver, it was absolutely amazing.

Being Swiss, I am proud that the swiss already have 3 gold medals, the swiss house here in Whistler is the rocking place. I have a little volunteer job, standing on the roof of the swiss house and shinning the spot light on approaching hoard of cowbells surrounding the medal athlete when he arrives for the in house celebration. Lots of fun and action.

As in my creative department, I am really into turquoise, to me it means courage and independence. I my "Healing Crystals" book it says : Turquoise was traditionally considered the stone of travelers. It offers worldly success and authority as well as the power to soar spiritually.

Merryl Streep wears a beautiful turquoise hippie necklace in "Mama Mia"

2010-01-27T13:20:00.002-08:00

Paradise in winter-wonderland.

I still pinch myself sometimes, that I am one of the lucky ones who has the opportunity to live in Whistler. It is not only the the surroundings of beauty and nature, it is also the special people who make this town so unique. Whistler folks seem more positive than the average person, it must be because we choose to live here, even if it is more expensive in every witch way.

Living here made me become more in touch with

LOVE, LAUGHTER, VALUE, DIGNITY, SAFETY, FEMININITY, HUMOR, JOY, HOPE, VISION, TRUTH, DREAMS, SOUL, COURAGE, INTEGRITY,

2010-01-18T09:41:00.003-08:00

In one months time, we are in the middle of the biggest party we have ever seen in Whistler and Vancouver. Everyday there is changes here, tents are sprouting up everywhere and there is definitely a buzz, I am completely amazed about the effort it takes to organize an event like that. With so many different aspects, lodging for all the athletes and workers, food, traffic, and security. And of course the sports events/competitions are a whole other story. Throw in the eventuality of the weather not cooperating.

Considering all the different agencies that have to work with each other in a positive manner, it is a huge feat. I am in awe.

I am so lucky, I can sit in my beautiful warm studio and create or go for a few runs when the snow is perfect. Attached one of my more elaborate pieces, the colors of a peacock feather.

2010-01-06T11:39:00.003-08:00

The festivities are over and life is getting back to normal, I am very glad.

I spent a wonderful 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it was warm and sunny everyday, all you need down there is a bathing suit, a summer dress and flip flops. That makes life a lot easier, and if you take shopping out of the equation, you get another bonus.

On a day like today, sunny and beautiful, the snow still sticking to the trees, the whole world seems to be sparkling. It gets me inspired for a new spring collection. I will keep you updated with my new creations.

above a few pictures of my paradise in CR.

2009-11-29T21:55:00.002-08:00

Like two golden birds perched on the selfsame tree,

intimate friends, the ego and self dwell in the same body.

The former eats the sweet and sour fruits of the tree of life,

while the latter looks on in detachment.

(the mundaka upanishad)

I read this peom many time , it is in THE SEVEVEN SPIRITUAL LAWS OF SUCCESS by Deepak Chopra

I finally got it.

2009-11-15T13:56:00.004-08:00

It is winter wonderland here in Whistler, absolutely beautiful, it is so very quiet when the snow falls, the occasional sounds are very muffled, it even smells different, very clean and pure. It is a blessing for Whistler to get such an early start for the ski season.

Creative wise I am working on a new spring collection, it is fun to find out what colors are going to be in, lots of blues, silvery light greys (my favorites)and very light pink and hot pink too. Also a newer sleeker style is coming back. Exiting.

2009-11-06T11:40:00.003-08:00

The mountain opens in 3 weeks and Christmas is only 7 weeks away. Every fall I always think I will have so much time to read, go to yoga and take it slow and easy because of the shoulder- season here in Whistler. It actually is a busy time, I have my studio open on Saturdays, get a few orders here and there for Christmas.

We also had the 100 day to the Olympics celebration, it was a great community event at the Whistler Conference center, inspiring speeches and athletes presence, great music by the Hairfarmers. It is pretty hard not to be exited about this once in a life-time-event.

Attached a picture of one of my Inukshuks, each is a little different (very handmade) and they are pure silver, the chain is sterling silver.

2009-10-26T11:52:00.006-07:00

Wonderful fall colors,

fall is always a bittersweet time for me, it is hard to let the summer go, but there is some excitement for the coming winter, skiing, snowboarding and just to have cozier days with a fire going. But meanwhile we have all this extremely strong color palette, I taught it would look like kitsch if one would paint it.

My friend Joy shares a beautiful picture of her and speed skater Jeremy Wotherspoon , Joy is wearing my pearl Inukshuk earrings, thank you Joy for being such a great model and promoter.

My newest ideas and creations

To find the perfect jewelry for your dress has many aspects, first of course it is color of the dress, size of body, skin and hair color and of course the occasion , do you need to dress up or down. This is an exiting new venture I will pursue on line. The website is not done yet, but all the aspects of it are brewing.

2009-10-06T13:46:00.005-07:00

STUDIO OPENING

last Saturday we had our grand opening , it was great, a good turn out , lots of fun with all the jewels, food and wine. Thank you all for coming.

I am planning to have my studio open every Saturday in November and early December. Otherwise just give me a call and arrange a time to drop by.

Last week I met a very interesting women, we had an instant connection, so much in common, we both have 4 children, we love to create, beauty, harmony and passion for what we are doing is very important.

She is the designer of www.exercisegrace.com, an absolutely wonderful line of exercise clothes. Her branding: strong body, beautiful mind, graceful spirit. It shows in her creations.

On her website she has a couple of lines that I had to put on my fridge for a daily reminder.

Forgiveness is the ultimate weight loss and encouragement is oxygen for the soul.

2009-09-17T10:13:00.007-07:00

new creations

a friend of mine was told by a healer to wear Rose-quartz. Rose-quartz is the crystal of gentle love, it will ease pain and tension, heal emotional wounds and help with stress. Plus it is a lovely stone with its subtle light pink color. It looks lovely with silver, worn as a cluster of assorted shapes on a long adjustable chain. It is the stone for Taurus.

Getting into it, I also did Amethyst, Carnelian, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Quartz crystal, Citrine and my favorite, Kyanite.

The clusters are all 30 inches long with an adjustable clasp and matching earrings.

The necklace is $60, earrings are 30 or the set is 80.

On Sunday we attended the open house at the new Athletes village, called "Cheakamus Crossing". My daughter Heidi and Amanda were dressed by Cary and Paulo as Miss Whistler and Miss Blackcomb, complete with the peak to peak gondola. It was a beautiful hot day and the turn out was great. It will be a wonderful new neighbourhood after the games.

back to normal

2009-09-09T10:47:00.008-07:00

It seems the summer came to an abrupt end, it was one of the greatest summers I remember.
My daughters are back in school, Chantal moved to the city, she is living in a suite with one of her Whistler friends, both are attending Langara College.
I was so lucky this summer, I attended a few weddings and did the jewelry for many brides. attached a picture of one of the loveliest brides I have ever seen, she modeled her dress in my studio accompanied by her little dog.
On labour day weekend we attended a funky dress up party, the theme was Hollywood and we were literally "singing in the rain ". Cary and Paulo of www.paintertainment.ca helped us out with their exceptional creativity in costume design.
I am planning an open house for my new studio on 2263 Olive Terrace on Saturday, October 3rd, from 2-6. Feel free to drop by and enjoy a drink and some snacks.

All done

2009-08-12T19:04:00.006-07:00

It is finally done. My studio is finished, and it so happens that today my on-line shop opened up too. It looks great, thank you Chantal, www.inkdesign.ca for your extra time and patience with the whole process. I am also grateful to Chantal and Heidi, my fashion police daughters for their updated input and approval.

Yesterday and today I took my brand new bike for a ride, there are many trails and not so busy areas. Whistler is just the best place to live and play, so much to do. The trail to Cheakamus Lake is awesome, especially after the rain we had, the trail and the tree trunks ( some of them very old and proud) have all the different shades of brown and grey and the rest of the landscape has many shades of green. To enjoy all that is a perfect reward after 7 km of gravel road.

I will update more often from now on, got inspired by Julie with her blog writing, ( Julie and Julia) a great movie for girls and foodies. I love butter too.

Summer mornings

2009-07-17T08:24:00.009-07:00

Summer mornings are just the best, everything is still fresh, the flowers the birds and me. I have a family of chipmunks in my backyard and it seems they are trying to talk to me.
The Art Walk at Ruby Tuesday was a great event. I saw many of my friends and I was lucky to adorn a few more beautiful women with my creations. Thank you to all for your enthusiasm.
My new studio is almost done, the floor is in and I'm just painting my old shelves. I love using my chop saw and I am getting better at measuring and cutting at different angles.

My daughter Chantal did her application for the Design and Display program at Langarra College, I hope she gets accepted. The above drawing is her idea of a store window.

I also had a very nice holiday last week, a different kind of camping, a floating camp, very deluxe. We spent a long weekend with friends in Jervis Inlet, it was very relaxing, great party and we caught some fish and had very fresh oysters.

Canada Day

2009-07-02T08:17:00.004-07:00

Canada and me celebrated our B-day yesterday. It was a beautiful day spent at the park with my family. My girls surprised me with the perfect picnic, wonderful little sandwiches with Canada flags. Jesse, my grandson, enjoyed catching little fish in the lake, and had a blast with his aunties.
Last weekend I was invited to my friends, Ivana's and Bruce's wedding, it was a beautiful noon wedding at the Nita Lake lodge and later a big party at their house. I had the privilege to create the jewelry for Ivana. It matched the gown perfectly, it complimented the neck strap.
The new studio is coming along wonderfully, the colors look soft and gentle. We still have to lay the floor, my helpers are not always available.
My on-line store had a little misunderstanding with its payment-organisation. It will be up soon , I hope.

Expressing creativity

2009-06-20T11:52:00.006-07:00

When you work you are a flute trough whose heart the whispering of the hours turns to music.....and what is it to work with love? It is to weave the cloth with treads drawn from your heart, even as if your beloved were to wear that cloth....
- KAHIL GIBRAN, the prophet

Isn't this a beautiful poem, thats when I know I am doing the right thing. Playing with pearls, stones and silver brings that feeling out, lucky me. I am working on a few new pieces for the opening of the ART WALK on July 3rd. I will be showing at Ruby Tuesday, staring at 6 PM. looking forward to this event. Many friends, Whistlerites and Visitors take part in this laid back stroll trough the village to see and chat with artists who are showing their best work, with treads of love woven into it.

For the past three days I did one of my other favorite thing, I arranged and re-arranged furniture and stuff to my hearts desire. I am here at 'Patina home interiors', minding the store for Maureen while she is visiting clients in the Okanagan. It is wonderful space, it even has a designer backyard, a new kitchen with the coolest chandelier. One can tell, that Maureen is doing the right thing.

2009-06-15T22:29:00.002-07:00

My new website got launched today, very exiting. It looks great, thank you Chantal (www.inkdesign.ca) and Betsy (www.betsylinnellmarketing.com), it was a pleasure working with you.
While getting into the new mode of design and colors I got all inspired for my new workspace. It will be a jewelry studio with a showroom and a great space to visit with my friends.
My daughters, Heidi and Chantal convinced me of changing the color of the whole studio (from yellow and red graphics) to the new softer colors of my new website. It has to look more "feminine and girlish" says my fashion police.
That means a lot of work, I will do all the organizing of the shelves, getting ready and Heidi will do the painting with Chantal's input.
Of course all that includes a lot of "letting go". Last week I got rid of all my pottery supplies and today I actually said goodbye to my motorbike.
It was a bit sad, because it was lots of fun for the last eight summers, but I am also done with speed. The bike will stay in Whistler with my friend Joanne and I am sure it will occasionally wink at me, while passing me in the slow lane.

Inspiration

2009-06-05T10:40:00.005-07:00

Last weekend I went to a wonderful wedding with my family, lots of fun and laughter. To top off our Vancouver Island experience (the wedding was on the beach near Courtenay) we travelled across Vancouver Island to Ucluelet. We stayed at the new Black Rock resort, www.blackrockresort.com. It was absolutely fabulous, what a beautiful place, it is brand new and a designer masterpiece. It fits perfectly into the rugged westcoast landscape. Everywhere you look it has a compliment to its natural surroundings.
The food is first class and the prices are very reasonable, the staff is super friendly and well trained.
We went for a walk on one of many trails, which was magical. We can only learn from nature and its perfectness, it never rushes or tries too hard, it just does it. All colors are matching and complimenting each other, never too much or overdone.
All together I learned a lot and got inspired for many more designs with gracefulness and simplicity in mind.

New Online Store

2009-05-29T11:09:00.006-07:00

Everyday Pearls is happy to announce the opening of our new online store! View our range of 100 unique jewelry pieces available for sale - from earrings and bracelets to pearl necklaces. So go ahead, treat yourself. Liven up your everyday!
> visit our store and shop online

New for Spring 2009

2009-05-28T18:36:00.008-07:00

Everyday Pearls are created by hand using quality materials including freshwater pearls, sterling silver, semi-precious stones and Swarovski crystals. The New Spring 2009 Collection also includes beautifully handcrafted silver charms. The charms add a playful and unexpected touch to pendants and earrings.