Look What I Got!

I belive I mentioned an ATC swap that was being organized by A Creative Dreamer. (Yes, here it is.) The names were mixed up and paired up and the ATC's sent out. As it turned out, Creative Dreamer and I ended up being swap partners. Here's the card she made and sent to me:

She's been reading my blog and was inspired to add a few beads to her doodle. I think it's absolutely charming. :- )

Meanwhile, our local bead shop will be closing in about two weeks. I went back again yesterday to show my support and see what I could find to supplement my stash. I found lots! I could easily have brought more home if I'd had the budget for it.

FYI, the square container holds clear bugle beads. They don't show up very well in this photo.

I have also been pondering what to do for my March ornament for the Bead Journal Project. I want to recognize or honor spring somehow. Or perhaps it's the effect of spring on the earth that I want to document. In any event, I have selected this hand dyed fabric in spring greens and yellow...

and have chosen this raku button to be my focal element:

I'm excited at the prospect of turning this into a representation of spring. At the same time I'm a little apprehensive because I'm planning to try out new techniques and of course I want the final product to turn out well. Wish me luck!

Oh, and thanks for your thoughts on the crazy quilt in the previous post. I feel better about its' potential now.