Last Project - Started at class; finished at home.

This was the first project from the second section of the metalsmithing class at the Appalachian Rock Shop.  The pain of traveling and working on this proved to be too much for the pain in my neck so I had to quit taking the classes.  I had the basic shape done and the prongs soldered when I stopped.  The other day I decided that maybe I just would finish the piece on my own.  Anita gave me advice and now the project is done.  Please criticize.  I would like to know what you think about it.  Thanks.

Out of Darkness Walk #3

Yesterday was the Out of Darkness Walk.  It is the third year for it.  I did reach my goal of $150 even though my page for the walk does not show this. I handed in pledges that I received in person. 

Thank you to all who donated. It is greatly appreciated.

I don't know the statistics yet for how much was raised or how many walkers there were. It was absolutely freezing in Youngstown yesterday morning.  I laughed at Dave when he got gloves out to take.  I was glad he did in the end.

 Here are a couple of pictures from the walk:

Team Neral
But at least 12 are missing

Everyone writes messages
This is mine to Tyler.

First Homecoming for Jess

I adore my granddaughters.  All five of them.  This is the first year of high school for the oldest granddaughter and she went to Homecoming.  A couple of weeks ago, she looked like this:

Simon, mascot for the Hubbard Library.
Jess is only one of the teens who play Simon.

Last night she looked like this for her first Homecoming Dance with her boyfriend, Joel.

But you can't take the tomboy out of the girl.  She left her tickets for the dance in the house and when she ran in to get them, she did this:

Her sister was right there helping her get ready; running for this and that.  Here is a picture of Jess and Sammi.

I hear that Jess and Joel had a wonderful night.  Amy took them to Fiesta Tapitia for dinner and karaoke after the dance. 

You looked beautiful, Jess.  I love you...but I also love Sammi, Kaely, Reily, Audrey and let's not forget my grandson, Andy. 

Tyler, we all love you too and felt your presence all day long.  I know that you were keeping your sister safe all night long.

Metalsmithing Class

Anita talked me into going to a metalsmithing class this Spring. It was at the Appalachian Rock Shop  in Harmony, Pa. Our instructor was Jo and there were a bunch of ladies and one gentleman in the class.  I learned quite a bit about sawing, filing, and soldering.  All things I never was interested in before.  I signed up for the Summer class, but after starting one project, I couldn't finish because of my muscle spasms in my neck.  I am supposed to have a Botox shot in that muscle in December so I am hoping I can return in the Spring to classes. 

Anniversary gift for Amy -
Tyler's crow design
First Project
 

Second Project - Cut pieces out and solder -
then form ring - don't stop portion



Arrow portion



Entire ring symbolizes - Don't stop, keep going

Third project Sterling silver ring -
Amy was given this too...