I've just returned from my second visit to Tucson.

I am SO EXCITED to continue creating with the goodies I picked up while in Tucson with my friend Jill from Riverstone Jewelry. In addition to collecting wonderful and inspiring beads, we were able to visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens and the Heard Museum in Phoenix. There's so much to see out there, I can't wait to return next year.

Among the treasures that I found was a set of seven silver beads presented to a young man's intended during their courtship. These gorgeous hand crafted beads brought me to tears when I held them and Jill said that I had to purchase them. I'm not yet sure exactly how I will use them, but I know that it will be a spectacular necklace (or two). The same vendor from Jaipur sold me some beautiful beads of carnelian and silver that I look forward to combining with some special carnelian I have been holding on to for a while. 

Switching gears, I made a special trip to a trunk show of Venetian glass. Even searching in Venice and Murano in July, I was unable to find the gorgeous pieces that I purchased in Tucson! I am learning about the work of Ercole Moretti and other famous Venetian bead makers, and look forward to presenting my work featuring this glass.

One of the reasons I returned to Tucson this year (yes, there were many reasons), was to work with a lampwork artist I met last year. I placed a custom order with her that I am thrilled to be able to incorporate into my work later this Spring. 

So all in all, it was a very exciting and inspirational trip. I can't wait to spend time in my gorgeous newly renovated studio surrounded by these riches. Please come visit and let me show you my treasure trove.