February is for.....

February is for Fabulous, Family, Friends, Florida and Fun!  Funny thing...they were all tied together this month!

As you know, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show consumes me when it hits town and this year was no exception.  I literally walked the many shows from January 29th ~ February 6th.  These are photos from past years, but much hasn't changed except that vendors are less willing to allow photos!

 

Restocking and buying new and different treasures to incorporate in my creations is paramount, and boy did I find gorgeous new things!

Bali Star Coral

Amethyst Stalactite Slice

Fossilized Bone

Chinese Writing Stone

African Bronze Beads

Ice Blue Druzy

Green Opal

Coptic Crosses and Ammonite

Tourmaline and Garnet

Botswana Agate

Apatite, Rainbow Fluorite, and Larimar

Vermeil Charms and Lockets

Antique French Steel Cut Buckles and Vintage Swarovski Cup Chain

Yee-Haw!!

Celestite

There's always an homage to my Catholic faith...

Copal (baby Amber)

Antique French Steel Cut Buckles

Working the shows on different days with girlfriends and daughters made shopping so special....almost as special as working the shows with my new hip and no pain!!

A special visit with my dear friends, Becky and Cheryl, at Nunn Design.  They generously offer so much, especially their kindness, love, and inspiration...

The experience wouldn't be complete without my participation in Art Retreat in the Desert, hosted by those amazing Solem women....Barb, Erin, and Sara!

Wow!  Got to spend 3 days with old friends from across the country as well as new friends...this Retreat is one not to be missed!

I took 3 amazing classes this time ~ Nautilus Earrings and Basket Weave Ring with Deryn Mentock, and Explosion Pendant with Kim St. Jean....

Recognize that Ice Blue Druzy???

Before I forget, I also took a class at the Tucson Bead Show with Tracey Nelligan where I learned the art of salt water etching ~ no nasty chemicals, WOO HOO!

We're off to Florida this month for a visit with old besties.....more on that later!

Sending you all sweet Valentine OOO'S and XXX's and hoping you have a Fabulous February!