I'm up to my elbows in glitter and Swarovski crystals! We began work on the centerpieces for Kate and Brent's wedding and my house has turned into a Swarovski Sweatshop. I have been to the craft store every day for eight consecutive days. I'm feeling a bit like I've joined a cult. That happens when you visit the every Michael's Arts and Crafts store in a 75 mile radius. I'm like the Crystal Nazi.
Somehow when this project was presented to me (about a year ago) I was distracted by the prospect of 24/7 bling and glitter. Now, however, I feel like a child worker from a third world country. Okay, not exactally like a CHILD, but....
We are making beautiful crystal trees from Manzanita branches, stripped, painted, doused with glitter then finished with crystals and sliver. They are quite breathtaking and the process has been fun. Everyone in the two families has had a hand in designing theses beauties. At this point, we have 10 trees complete, and have developed a rhythm. Good thing, because we have to make 32 total! It has become a family project--not just my family, but the Kidder's too! Dave has been home and has graciously stepped up to the plate to be my assistant. He has even learned to navigate the craft store. Let's face it, a craft store is merely a Chick's Hardware store, so he has a good point of reference.
Dave and I were out the door at 9:15 today and after my required stop for a Latte (three equals, extra foam), we were headed out Highway 37 to the Vallejo Michael's, then to the Pinole Michael's, crossed two bridges and three counties. We bought all they had of these stupid little silver things I'm using. One might ask why couldn't we access all materials at the Michael's in Petaluma? Because, we bought all they had. We also raided the Santa Rosa Michael's, and the one in Marin County. It's a wee bit like living in Mario World and your object is to collect as many coins as possible.
Don't get me wrong, the finished product is beautiful. It's been fun being surrounded by bright, shiny trees--especially when the candles are lit and light begins to dance. The time we've spent together has been priceless. The laughter and stories will last long after the glitter is gone. The trail of glitter begins in my garage, goes throughout the house, into the back yard, to the end of the property line and includes the koi pond. My car is full of glitter now that we've transported 10 trees back to Jami's for storage until June. There is glitter in my bed and today Sparkey (my 12 pound min pin) took a hit. I'm guessing that by next Christmas I may be glitter free. Maybe not. I'm looking at each bead strung as a blessing for my kids. Here's to Katie and Brent--may your life be blessed with light, love and happiness!
