The Weekend Jewelry Designer?

I might have to change my blog title to "The Occasional Jewelry Designer." I've been away from my design studio for several weeks now, and I'm starting to feel the pangs of withdrawal. But I assure you that there is nothing that can keep me away for long!

We had a lovely trip to North Carolina, but didn't manage to dodge the heat. It was beastly hot during the day. However, in the evening after dusk, it was breezy and comfortable sitting on the wrap-around deck of our friend's house perched high in the mountains overlooking Asheville. Our conversation turned to the black bears which our friend says have been more frequent visitors this year, wandering closer and closer to residential areas. Just a few months ago, one bold and brazen character lumbered up the steep steps to our friend's upper deck, and was caught trying to take a swipe at the bird feeder filled with seed. The pictures below were snapped several years ago while driving up a winding mountain road not too far outside of Asheville. These two cubs seemed oblivious to our presence as they foraged through the leaves looking for berries. We never did see the mom (maybe that's just as well!)

Had I planned better, I would have taken some beading projects along on our trip. Time got away from me, however, and my beads and tools were left behind.

But.....I did find a bead store! Beads and Beyond is located on Wall Street in Asheville, a narrow little street chock full of interesting shops and restaurants. We went early enough to be able to nab a parking spot right on Wall Street, and walked a short distance to the bead store. I purchased some interesting Czech picasso beads, and some sparkly chinese crystals. This surely must be an addiction. It is impossible for me to visit a bead store without buying something. I also purchased a Kumihimo braiding disk, which is a modification of a traditional Chinese method of weaving cords, ribbons, or other fibers into braided cords. A basic 8-strand weave is incredibly easy and very fast. I completed a 24-inch braid in the car trip home in a few hours. There are other techniques that incorporate beads into a braid - something I'm eager to learn.

We had lunch at the Laughing Seed Cafe, an interesting vegetarian restaurant also on Wall Street. The black bean and tofu burrito was excellent, and the Reuben, made with tempeh and purple sauerkraut and onions was tantalizing. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Asheville and looking for a tasy alternative to burgers and fries.

Our 11-hour drive home was uneventful. Traffic was moderate and we experienced no incliment weather. The stretch of highway 40 connecting Asheville to Knoxville, Tennesee is particularly scenic as it winds through the lush peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains. I certainly hope to go back soon.