CB&CO

A day in the Photo Lab...

2012-01-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

I spent all day yesterday with Randy Palmer in the photo lab shooting new photos of my work! A HUGE thank you to Randy...they look amazing! Now on to the task of getting all of my applications filled out for the 2012 art fair schedule. 2 months of taxes left to finish up on this snowy day, and then it is back to the studio to work on new designs! Yay! Happy Monday!

BE...creative
Kristi

Bracelets & Taxes...

2011-12-29T14:30:00.000-08:00

Those are the only things that will be happening in the studio between now and the end of the year! I am so depleted on bracelets, and am going to restock so that I have a great supply heading into 2012! Taxes...ugh, but they need to get done early for financial aid time again. Here is the start....

Confession...

2011-10-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make...
Sometimes I sneak into my studio in the middle of the night to crack open the kiln and peek at the previous days stash.

BE.... mischievous
Kristi

Marine Art Fair

2011-09-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Had a great time in Marine on St Croix for their annual art fair. Saturday was beautiful, Sunday was a bit gloomy and rainy but we had a really nice show. The last hour of the fair I had this necklace stolen...BAD KARMA to whomever swiped it! Then Sunday night it was off to Madison to see my great customers at the Market Show! Thanks to all who stopped by our booth over the last few days! Have a great week!

BE....honest

Kristi

Little Falls...

2011-09-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

Well we made it home from Little Falls last night...exhausted! Thanks to all of you who stopped by the booth to purchase new goodies from CB&CO, and those of you who just stopped by to say 'hi'! It was great seeing all of you and catching up. Now I need to do the catching up, on inventory that is, since we are back at it this coming weekend again in Marine on St Croix! I will be in the studio 24/7 completing orders from last weekend and working on filling up my booth again! Hope to see you next weekend!

BE productive...
Kristi

Fall!

2011-09-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

It is almost my favorite time of year, although this year it will be a little bitter sweet. We will be moving our daughter ( & only child ) off to college on Saturday. We have spent the last few weeks planning, organizing, and shopping, and Brad is very glad that as of this afternoon...we have polished off the last of the "to purchase" list! Now hopefully it will all fit into the SUV!

We have also been on the road and out of town for a few weeks with shows. 2 weekends ago we headed to Milwaukee for the 2nd Annual Milwaukee Domes Art Festival. The setting was beautiful, we reconnected with a few friends, like the lovely Becki Moylan ( beckm.net ), oh how I wish we lived closer to Mequon, and met new. Kendal absolutely fell in love with the works of Emerson Matabele. ( www.emersonimages.com ) I too was completely drawn to and enthralled with the images he is blessed to capture. He is a truly amazing man, I could have spent the entire festival in his booth listening to him talk of his work and watching him interact with the people that were drawn to his booth, as we were.

After 4 days in Milwaukee, we were home for another 4, just barely enough time to give Coop a bath before we had to bring him right back to the vet...poor boy! Then we were off to Green Bay. What a great 3 days we had there! The weather was absolutely perfect for both days of Art Street, a rare feat for ANY art fair to accomplish! We were finally able to drop into The Assemblage Studio in DePere. All I need to say is get there if you haven't been! We were set up almost right across from Debbie and David from The Glass Onion ( http://www.glassonion.biz/ ) and were able to catch up a bit with them...LOVE their work! Also had a few brief moments to chat with Tyler Lambert of Doll House Studio. Check out his blog at http://tylerlambertdollhousestudio.blogspot.com/ This is one amazing artist....and he is only 14! Oh the places he will go! We had a great show, and were able to hit The Timeline Saloon & BBQ on the way out of town. We had been wanting to stop there every time we get to Green Bay and finally took the time to stop, and boy are we glad we did. Probably the best BBQ we have had, and the 3 of us ate for $44! Best and least expensive meal of the weekend...by far! They also have a Harley Shop and Museum! They are about 18 miles West of Green Bay on HWY 29 in Bonduel.

So that brings us back to this weekend, and the looming 'empty nest'. I am a big ball of mixed emotion, sad that K won't be here everyday, being silly and making us laugh, but SO proud of her and the young woman that she is becomming. We are so blessed to have her in our lives, and can't wait to see what is just over the horizon for her. For me, it means sticking my nose to the grindstone and working thru the part of me that will miss her so very much. So beware my shops and galleries, you will soon have OODLES of new inventory from me to fill your shelves!

Wishing everyone a fun-filled holiday weekend!

BE safe...
Kristi

Off the wait list!

2011-05-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

I was just notified that I am off the wait list and officially a vendor at the Edina Art Fair this year! Whew...big relief since I have been there for at least the past 8 years! I am in booth #627 in the US Bank parking lot along 50th. This is a totally new location for me, so I hope to see you there!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

I'm back...

2011-04-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has sure been awhile! I wish I could say that I had spent my time here: http://www.galenfrysinger.com/puerto_varas_chile.htm Unfortunately I have been hard at work, creating inventory. I had 2 appointments last weekend, plus 2 shows...same weekend! I am regrouping and hard at work, and would you believe that I MADE BEADS last weekend! I am pretty safe to say that it has been well over 2 years since I have lit my lampworking torch, and I am happy to say that I have truly missed it, and relieved to say that it was like riding a bike! Have a happy Monday!

BE...inspired

Kristi

Everything Etsy

2011-02-23T16:44:00.001-08:00

You can now find me listed on a directory along with other handmade artists on Everything Etsy. I am listed under suppliers. Check out the directory if you have a chance, lots of great artists!

http://directory.everythingetsy.com/

BE...well rested
Kristi

Bead Soup Party Participants

2011-02-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday! Here is a list of the participants in the current Bead Soup Party! Check tham out, and remember to come back on the 26th to check out the reveal!

BE...lazy
Kristi

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things
2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life
3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane
4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio
5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations
6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs
7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things
8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe
9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto
10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio
11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas
12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts
13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place
14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings
15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita
16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails
17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found
18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs
19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs
20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats
21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs
22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim
23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu
24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads
25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air
26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio
27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads
28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter
29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts
30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul
31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium
32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus
33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble
34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design
35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle
36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs
37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works
38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights
39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire
40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio
41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's
42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions
43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya
44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations
45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles
46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig
47. Amanda Davie, Articulations
48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady
49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux
50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks
52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde
54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog
55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning
56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings
57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio
58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem
59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa
60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do
61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog
62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon
63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs
64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals
65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats
66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.
67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash
68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique
69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver
70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit
71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey
72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas
73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix
74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems
75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!
76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium
77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art
78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden
79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads
80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook
81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy
82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria
83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods
84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs
85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries
86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka
87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae
88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy
89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations
90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss
91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous
92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead
93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations
94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof
95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio
96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box
97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs
98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue
99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads
100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings
101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio
102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations
103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios
104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore
105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations
106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky
107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric
108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs
109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading
110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman
111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe
112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo
113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs
114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me
115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf
116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer
117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles
118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie
119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart
120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs
121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven
122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings
123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass
124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks
125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things
126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos
127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee
128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M
129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry
130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads
131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny
132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore
133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog
134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder
135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs
136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies
137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art
138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.
139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter
140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy
141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse
142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings
143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts
144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense
145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique
146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads
147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul
148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me
149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog
150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions
151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T
152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals
153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area
154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs
155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta
156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef
157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye
158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color
159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman
160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory
161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst
162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed
163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu
164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio
165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra
166. Anna Motz, Stunning
167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings
168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads
169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings
170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope
171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones
172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs
173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass
174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre
175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine Credit River Art Glass
176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog
177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio
178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're
179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux
180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me
181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art
182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog
183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen
184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink
185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin
186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer
187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels
188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry
189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos
190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.
191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry
192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle
193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini
194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse
195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between
196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets
197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts
198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs
199. Karen Williams, Baublicious
200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend
201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell
202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts
203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs
204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads
205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique
206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry
207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads
208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love
209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry
210. Shirley Moore, Homeschooling Life

Together...

2011-02-18T11:25:00.001-08:00

New INITIAL pendants!

2011-02-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

I have added my INITIAL pendants/charms to my ETSY shop! You can check them out here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/68122207/initial-copper-pendant-choice

Have a great week!

BE...happy

Kristi

New Show - CHEERLEADING!

2011-02-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

I took part in a new type of show (for me) over the weekend, it was a Cheerleading Competition with over 40 teams competing. It was loud, exciting, and the teams were unbelievable! I created a line of "CHEER" jewelry with several different related words, and have a few pieces left, so if you are interested, hop over to my ETSY shop! http://www.cbandco.etsy.com/ Thanks, and I hope everybody has a great week!

BE...loud

Kristi

Bead Soup Party REVEAL

2011-02-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

My Bead Soup Party partners have received their package from me, so I can finaly show you what I sent to them! I will post what I received later this weekend!

BE...warm

Kristi

Treasury

2011-02-03T13:59:00.000-08:00

Made it to another ETSY treasury! http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d49e0db87316d91b538c1c4/happy-valentines-day-with-love-and-good

Earthenwood Design Team

2011-02-03T11:00:00.000-08:00

I was honored to be a member of the Earthenwood Design Team for the month of January! Melanie sent off the inspiration pieces to us all, this month's theme was "Cabin Fever", then we were to design a piece around them. Here is a photo of the pieces we received, and the necklace that I designed with them. You can find Melanie and the other team members at http://earthenwood-beads.blogspot.com/search/label/Design%20Team Thanks for the opportunity Melanie!

BE...inspired

Kristi

Bead Soup Party teaser...

2011-01-28T10:28:00.000-08:00

And here is a photo of what I am sending...sorry but you can't get a better pic until later!

Bead Soup Party partners!

2011-01-28T10:25:00.001-08:00

So my items for the bead soup party are shipping out today! I am partnered up with the mother/daughter team from EB Bead & Metal Works. Here is a photo of their work, and you can see more at http://www.etsy.com/shop/e13e14mccord

BE...inspired

Kristi

Vintage BUTTONS!

2011-01-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

I have a huge stash of vintage buttons that were given to me by my grandma and my aunt, both who have passed away. They are the odd lots from dresses that my grandma made for my mom and 2 aunts while they were growing up. So I have started to make little shadow boxes for them out of copper that I have etched and lined with vintage script. Now if I can only find all of the old wooden needle cases that I have....

BE...sentimental

Kristi

Latest CHARMS

2011-01-26T15:34:00.001-08:00

Hi all! A bit under the weather lately....that headache is back again, but this one I can deal with! I have listed a new batch of vintage game piece charms on ETSY for $14 each, but here is the sneak peek! Have a great night!

BE...relaxed

Kristi

Metal Stamp Give Away!

2011-01-21T15:44:00.000-08:00

Yippee...a chance to win a metal stamp set from PJ Tool & Supply!

The letters are small -- 1/8" (3mm), so you can really get a lot of words on your stamped jewelry. This font is whimsical, including a-z and a question mark. The stamps are made of hardened carbon tool steel and can stamp precious metals, soft steel, aluminum, and even wood.

First, thank PJ Tool & Supply for this opportunity.

Please visit their web site by clicking here!

For details on how to enter go to: http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/2011/01/metal-stamp-giveaway.html

BE...lucky
Kristi

Bbrrr...

2011-01-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Wow, the car said -17 when Brad left this morning! Thankful that I only have to go downstairs to work and not outside! Stay warm!

BE...warm
Kristi

Vintage Pendants

2011-01-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

I love the look of these pieces that I just added to my ETSY shop. ( www.cbandco.etsy.com ) Hope you do as well. Spent most of the day cleaning silver, so my hands are aweful, good thing we are off to another hockey game tonight so I can hide them in my mittens!

BE...warm

Kristi

Bead Soup Party!

2011-01-13T11:03:00.001-08:00

Click on the link to the left to sign up for Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Party!

B-I-N-G-O

2011-01-06T21:14:00.000-08:00

Spent the last few days down for the count with a terrible headache, thought I had left those back in 2010! Worked most of today despite the lingering pain. I have just listed a batch a these BINGO charms on ETSY tonight! They are so cute, especially paired up with one of my girlfriend pendants or a big grouping of charms...hhmmm, what's YOUR lucky nimber?

BE...well

Kristi

Etsy Shop

2011-01-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I know I am a few days late, but they have been a busy few day! We had a hockey tournament over the weekend, took 3rd, and have been stocking the Etsy shop! Now I need to get back to inventory for a few days before I head off this weekend to my first wholesale show of the 2011 season.

BE...warm

Kristi

Etsy 20% off SALE

2010-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:00

To kick of the New Year...and the opening of my ETSY shop, I am offering a 20% discount between December 31st and January 1st. Enter coupon code " newyearsale " at checkout!

www.cbandco.etsy.com

Resolutions

2010-12-31T08:50:00.000-08:00

So last night, on the eve of New Year's Eve, I accomplished on of my resolutions for 2011, to get an Etsy shop up and running! Check one resolution off the list before we slide over into 2011! You can find me on Etsy at www.cbandco.etsy.com Onto the next resolution...

Wishing everyone a wonderful and safe New Year!

BE...refreshed

Kristi

"I wish for those I love this New Year an opportunity to earn sufficient, to have that which they need for their own and to give that which they desire to others, to bring into the lives of those about them some measure of joy, to know the satisfaction of work well done, of recreation earned and therefore savored, to end the year a little wiser, a little kinder and therefore a little happier."

January 1, 1937Eleanor Roosevelt

Winter

2010-12-16T14:03:00.000-08:00

" A lot of people like snow, I find it an unnecessary freezing of water"

Carl Reiner

BE ...warm
Kristi

snow..

2010-12-13T11:27:00.000-08:00

Wow, do we have snow! Here in Roseville we must have gotten about 16"+. Kendal's car was completely buried! I just brought a pile of completed orders to the mailbox, and now our neighbors can't even see that I have my jammie bottoms on! hehe...

I have a huge batch of chili in the crockpot, and now it's back to the studio for me...

BE...warm

Kristi

Gifts in the Gallery @ Bloomington Theatre and Art Center

2010-12-07T15:46:00.000-08:00

Spent the afternoon in Bloomington at the Art Center setting up my space for Gifts in the Gallery. The opening reception is Wednesday evening 6-8.

The show runs from December 8th - 22nd.

BE... inspired

Kristi

Recovering...

2010-11-29T09:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We spent it at home, Brad was recovering from a fall down the steps last Saturday when the ice hit, and the woke up last Sunday with a nice case of Vertigo!

So if any of you have been to see me at a show, you know that a big part of my display is a bust that I have created with different papers and vintage photos. Well last year in Green Bay at a show a lovely woman convinced me to sell it to her, and I have regreted it since! So yesterday I started a new one, it is almost complete, and I will post photos of 'her' as soon as I am done!

Have a great day everyone!

BE...thankful
Kristi

QUINCE

2010-11-24T15:15:00.001-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow, and safe travels to and from! I will have my goods at QUINCE on Black Friday for a trunk show, stop in to this awesome shop and get a great headstart on your Christmas shopping!

BE... safe

Kristi

Makin' beads!

2010-11-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

Off to show a group of Girl Scouts what making beads is all about! Should be a fun night!

All packed up!

2010-11-08T20:02:00.000-08:00

My sales book and all of my samples are packed up and ready to ship out in the morning to my new sales rep! I get to check one more thing off of my to-do list! Now on to tomorrow...

BE organized...

Kristi

Nametag

2010-10-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

One of my newest pieces....a nametag to wear at all of my shows! Have a great weekend, I am off to make a big pot of chilli!!

BE happy...

Kristi

Bead Bazaar

2010-10-19T22:13:00.000-07:00

Twin Cities Bead Bazaar is this weekend in Hopkins! 10 - 5 both days...

Home Sweet Home!

2010-10-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

Home again for a few weeks after 2 weeks on the road, first trip was to Arlington Texas for Bead Fest Texas, and then to Des Moines for ArtFest West. Had a great time at both, now it is back to the studio to play catch-up! Here are a few new pendants I have been working on:

BE happy...

Kristi

Renew

2010-10-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

Returned last night from Bead Fest Texas. Tired, but too much to do to take a day off! Getting ready for ArtFest West this weekend in Des Moines, and then teaching at the Garden of Beads in Anoka the next Saturday! Thanks to all that stopped by in Arlington!

BE renewed...
Kristi

Wind me up!

2010-09-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, 14 hours today, 12 hours yesterday....I am beat! I wish I had a wind up setting! Off to bed so I can get an early start tomorrow...only 4 more work days until I head off to Bead Fest Texas!

BE well rested....

Kristi

Bead Fest Texas!

2010-09-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

I feel like this is my new home-away-from-home....been spending an awful lot of time in my booth these days! Next up...Bead Fest Texas!

BE true...

Kristi

Marine on St. Croix

2010-09-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend in Marine for the 37th Annual Marine Art Fair! Weather was beautiful, tons of people, and empty bins...what more could you ask for! Thanks to everyone that stopped by this weekend, returning customers and new ones! Have a great week!

BE inspired...
Kristi

Home again...

2010-09-14T09:55:00.001-07:00

Whew....home from Little Falls and it is definitely time to order supplies to restock inventory for next weekend at Marine on the St. Croix and start to prepare for Bead Fest Texas!! I see very little sleep in my future...

September...really?

2010-09-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

What a month August was. We are home now from 2 out-of-state shows. Three weekends ago we were in Milwaukee. Nice new show with a beautiful location, had a storm roll in Friday night that wiped out 2 artist tents, one that lost quite a few paintings, and Saturday and Sunday were dripping hot, but nice. Then two weekends ago we were in Green Bay for the first time and had an awesome show, barely had time to breath, and am now even out of back stock. Back to the studio for 2 weeks, actually chained to the studio, then a few more shows back-to back. September will be gone before I know it was even here!

Powderhorn Art Fair

2010-08-07T18:31:00.000-07:00

Had a great first day at Powderhorn. It started off raining a bit, then turned hot and humid, but we had a great time in such a beautiful setting! We are back tomorrow from 10-5 if you get a chance to check it out, we are in booth #95!

BE happy...
Kristi

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T10:21:00.001-07:00

A huge thanks to those who have served, and those who continue to fight for our freedom!

On the road again...

2010-04-29T20:23:00.001-07:00

So Brad and I hit the road today for a few appointments in WI. 2 shops are once again filled with new CB&CO product, Driftless Studio on State St in Madison and Urban Laundry in Wauwatosa! Stop by and check out all the new stuff if you are in the area...tomorrow is another day of restocking inventory!

BE happy...
Kristi

Happy Weekend!!

2010-04-23T20:53:00.001-07:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend! We are watching hockey all weekend, plus hoping to get more accomplished in the studio!

BE happy...
Kristi

Wow...

2010-04-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

Wow...what a beautiful Spring morning here in MN! I am off to the studio to try to get ahead of inventory before my show schedule starts in about 5 weeks! Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!

BE happy...
Kristi

Happy Easter!

2010-04-05T04:44:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a blessed Easter with their families, I know we did, and it was such a beautiful day out on top of it! We are headed out on yet another College visit today...but needless to say, I will be working away in the car on the 4 hour drive! More nests I think, just in time for SPRING! Have a great week everyone!

BE happy...

Kristi

Back in the studio...

2010-03-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

So after a 3-day weekend in Madison I am back at it in the studio! What a beautiful weekend to spend in Madison! We had a great show, got to touch base with old friends and customers, and were lucky enough to make new of both! Dropped off new product on State Street to Driftless Studio....thanks Anne. Now it's back to the task of finishing up art fair applications for the up coming season, hats off to Zapplicaion for making the process a million times easier and faster, and working to get enough product ready for the start of my busy season! Have a wonderful week!

I'm still here....

2010-03-11T07:32:00.000-08:00

So once again it looks as though I have been neglecting my blog! Life just always seems to sneak in and eat up your time while you're not looking! The Bead Bazaar is this weekend in Hopkins at the Eisenhower Community Center on Saturday and Sunday from 10 - 5. Stop by if you are in MN for a great mix of bead related items! Today I am finishing up a few pieces for the show, and putting together the last of my receipts for our taxes as I am driving back home tomorrow to get them done! Whew, one more thing to cross off my list! Spring Break starts tomorrow for us, and after the show this weekend we are headed out to visit a couple of colleges with Kendal...the quest has begun!

Later,
Kristi

A long day!

2010-02-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

Working on finishing up some new pieces today, although I should probably be sticking to something familiar today since I have NO concentration! Our RGH team is playing at the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament in the semi-final game tonight at the Excel @ 8pm and I am just trying to keep busy!

What a week!

2010-02-23T00:16:00.000-08:00

What a week this is going to be! Our daughter and her high school hockey team have made it to STATE! They have been ranked #1 in the State most of the season, and won the section final game last Friday. The banquet is on Wednesday, and we have games starting on Thursday, then all weekend, so it will be a tough week to get any work done, but I am doing my best to get stocked up for my upcoming shows! I have a big knot of nerves in my stomach for the upcoming games, but hopefully they will do great, we are so proud of the team! Go Raiders!

One headache down!

2010-02-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

My Spinal Tap and the following Spinal Headache are over, after having to be flat on my back for 5 days to get rid of THAT headache. Unfortunately the original headache remains. I have still been working away, just on different things, like wirewrapping that doesn't require constant pounding. Oh, and cleaning silver, my least favorite job!

My Pods!!

2010-01-12T08:28:00.000-08:00

Well would you look at what showed up on the Bead and Button Show website today.... a photo from last year at B&B of my copper pods! I also noticed that they are used at the beginning of this years class catalog! Thanks Bead & Button!

New photos!

2010-01-11T11:33:00.000-08:00

So last night we headed to my brother-in-laws to have some new jury photos taken! THANKS RANDY! I love how they turned out! Now it's time to hit the applications again, such a long and tedious process, especially when a rejection letter shows up after all that work! Oh well, has to be done! Here is a peek, then I am off to finish getting my taxes together, oh such a fun week!

Brrr...

2010-01-08T07:44:00.000-08:00

It is FREEZING here in MN! I sure am glad my commute only involves a flight of stairs and not going outside into a cold, cold car! Stay warm!

Monday...again!

2010-01-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

I love Mondays! A new week has begun, not to mention a new year, and we all get a fresh start. Christmas break is over, which I am always sad about, I love having Kendal home for the week! We just hung out most of the break, watched a lot of movies...and hockey of course. The girls took the consolation game [ 7 - 2 ] in the weekend's tournament, so that was fun. Now it is back to the studio, headache or not, I need to get going on new work and restocking my supply of inventory! Have a great Monday everyone!

2010!!

2010-01-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

"I wish for those I love this New Year an opportunity to earn sufficient, to have that which they need for their own and to give that which they desire to others, to bring into the lives of those about them some measure of joy, to know the satisfaction of work well done, of recreation earned and therefore savored, to end the year a little wiser, a little kinder and therefore a little happier."

January 1, 1937 Eleanor Roosevelt

Boy am I ready for this new year, not to mention decade! After blood sugar control problems over the last few months, skin cancer and the following surgery, not to mention this on-going headache for the last 6+ weeks, I am ready for a new start!

On my resolution list thus far:
1. More consistant blogging: I am shooting for a minimum of once a week!
2. Website for my jewelry: Which will be at www.coliebugandcompany.com
3. Monthly paperwork: I'm am not waiting for the end of the year this time around!
4. New product: Always ongoing, but would love to put out something new and exciting once a week! Maybe that will be part of my weekly blog?! I am also aiming to spend part of a day each week doing just that, working on new ideas!
5. More torch time: Making time each week to work at the torch!

Ok, that may be enough of a list...for now anyway! Have a great weekend everyone!

Rain, Rain, GO AWAY!

2009-10-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Feels like a page right out of Winnie the Pooh here today, very blustery! The rain really needs to stop, as we have no gutters or down spouts on the house right now! Our new roof is on, but they still need to take off the siding. Hopefully the snow holds off!

Finished up my last show of the year last weekend. I still have galleries to stock, and a trunk show or two, so we are working away in the studio as usual! Have a great weekend!

Snow...really?!

2009-10-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yupp, we have snow this morning in MN! The sun is out so I'm sure it won't last long, and hopefully won't come again for a couple of weeks, as we are about to get a new roof and siding...thanks Mr. Hail!
As usual we are swamped here in the studio. After a show last weekend in Milwaukee, and then an appointment with Urban Laundry my stash is low again. If you ever get to Wauwatosa, WI. it is well worth a stop into the shop, Jeni does a great job of finding very unique and funky clothing, not to mention jewelry! Their site is: http://www.urban-laundry.com/ Then head next door to Le Reve Patissere & Cafe, their crepes are to die for, as are their desserts!
Now I am gearing up to head back to Wisconsin on Monday for a wholesale apparel show in the Dells, and then a trunk show at Meant to Bead for the weekend of the 17th-18th! Stop in if you get a chance, we will be giving demos on various techniques on Saturday, plus the artists will have our wares for sale! For more info, check out: http://www.meant-to-bead.com/

Fall??!!

2009-09-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, where has the summer gone, I can't believe it's fall already, well officially not until Tuesday, but seriously?! It has been a crazy few weeks in the CB&CO studio, getting ready for shows, working on orders after shows, etc.! I will be in St. Cloud at Northern Brights tonight from 5-9 for their downtown Art Crawl, then to Marine on St Croix on Saturday and Sunday for their Art Festival. It is going to be a long weekend, bless my hubby's heart for going out to Marine tonight after work to set up the tent, one less thing for the morning! Stop in if you get a chance and say 'hi', and have a wonderful weekend!

Finishing touches!

2009-08-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well I am putting the finishing touches on pieces that I will be bringing to the Fall Wholesale Market on Tuesday and Wednesday in Onalaska, WI at the OmniCenter! Getting everything together, going over inventory, and packing the truck later tonight. Hope to post another photo later of my new little bird houses...

It's here!

2009-08-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

52 Bracelets has hit the news stands! I got my copy at Barnes & Noble yesterday, and I am on page 16, with my copper etched pieces and sweet little bird! Also check out page 11 for an awesome bracelet using enameled copper from C-Koop! Speaking of Sara from C-Koop, I received a little package in the mail yesterday from her...she worked her magic on my new mini bird houses. I will get them finished up today and post a picture hopefully by tomorrow...they are too cute!

To the lake...

2009-08-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

Well we are headed out tomorrow to the family cabin for a few days. K starts soccer tryouts on Monday, so after this weekend, our summer break is pretty much over. We are taking the dog with, hopefully we don't regret that move LOL! I would feel too guilty boarding him when we are sitting at the lake and he could be swimming all day with K!! I have spent the week stock piling earrings to make so that I can still feel like I am getting work done. We have SO many shows coming up soon, plus a few orders left to get out the door. I also got to have a fun lunch today with Sara from C-Koop and Shelley, the owner of the Beadniks store at MOA! I hope everyone has a great weekend! I will post some pictures after we get back!

Rain rain go away....

2009-08-08T12:01:00.001-07:00

Change of plans for the day...sorry but we won't be in Forest lake after all. We got there about 7 this morning, and sat in the truck while it POURED for over an hour! There were ablolutely no signs of it clearing up, not even a break in the clouds, so we came back home to spend the day working in the studio! Have a great weekend!

~ FLY ~

2009-08-06T10:53:00.001-07:00

Here is a sampling of what we have been up to in the studio! These aren't new for me, but this is the first time I have been able to get them stockpiled enough to offer them! They have a green patina roof, with a green faceted czech glass drop to match. The main portion of the house is etched with font. The piece comes on a 28" copper ball chain and is $60. You can order it here: http://www.coliebugbeads.com/cb&co%20page.htm

Check me out on Facebook!

2009-08-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

CB&CO on Facebook

Hockey Weekend!

2009-07-31T20:34:00.000-07:00

K was asked to play in a hockey tournament this weekend, so we have spent the last 2 days in the arena instead of the studio...sure do miss watching her play, can't wait for hockey season to start up again! One game early tomorrow morning, then hopefully 2 on Sunday!

Still waiting for '52 Bracelets' to hit the news stand...can't wait to see it! I will have to check again tomorrow and see if B&N has it in yet!

Have a great weekend!

New Dog Tags!

2009-07-30T07:46:00.001-07:00

I just love these new tags! They can be personalized on the front or back, and come with a brass insert around the hole, and a 26" copper ball chain. The connecting ring is Sterling. They look great in pairs! You can order them here: http://www.coliebugbeads.com/cb&co%20page.htm Thanks! I will be offering other pieces here as well until my new site is up and running!

Beadniks

2009-07-28T20:30:00.001-07:00

Well we had a pretty productive day in the studio today! It is amazing what the two of us can get done when Brad is now my full-time employee....hopefully just for the time being! Just a quick note to let you know that I just dropped off new pieces at the Beadniks shop in the Mall of America! Shelley, the awesome owner of the shop, just posted this photo in her newsletter! Thanks Shelley!! Stop by if you get a chance, the store is pretty new, opened up last November, and it is awesome! They have a lot of really unique beads and components! Have a great night!

Lake Superior

2009-07-28T15:07:00.001-07:00

Here is an awesome photo from our trip to Wisconsin last weekend of Lake Superior!

52 Bracelets

2009-07-27T15:39:00.000-07:00

BeadStyle is coming out with a special issue titled '52 Bracelets' at the beginning of August, and they are featuring my copper rings and this sweet little bird in a project! You can purchase them on my website as a set at http://www.coliebugbeads.com/

Bayfield Festival of Arts

2009-07-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

We just returned home from a wonderful and much needed 4 days in Bayfield Wisconsin! The weather was beautiful, and the town is just magical....we love it there! The Festival was awesome again this year, with great artists, both new and returning. We met the gals from Francis Metal Works this year, they are located here in Brooklyn Park, MN and are the creators of these wonderful sculptures of ducks, pelicans, and water birds! Check them out at http://www.francismetalworks.com/ Needless to say we brought home a new little family of our own! Thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth in Bayfield! We hope to be back up for Apple Fest this fall! Have a great week!

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful and safe 4th of July. We are headed up to my Cousin's house for the afternoon to hang out and grill, along with my Aunt and Uncle, then it is back to the studio to get orders completed. Thanks for the invite guys! Have a great weekend!

Art on the Lake

2009-07-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

You can now find me on most Tuesday nights in Forest Lake in the park! Unless it is raining out we will be there from about 5-9. It is a really nice little venue, music, art, food, and a small farmer's market! Stop by and say 'HI'!

I'm here!

2009-06-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am finally back in the land of the living! After a round of skin cancer and surgery, plus getting ready for 2 shows on the same weekend, things are finally back to their normal insanity! I am here in the studio getting new pieces ready for my Rep, and things out to a few of my neglected galleries. I will post a few new things later this week...stay tuned!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T16:37:00.000-07:00

Just one thing to say this morning:

2009-03-31T06:52:00.000-07:00

Uughh...more snow!!

home again, home again.....

2009-03-30T12:13:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am finally home again! I have had shows the past two weekends and just got home late last night from Madison, WI.! Hope to be home working for the whole month of April, we'll see if that plan works out! The shows went well, it was hard to tell that there is a problem with the economy because people were out and about, but most importantly they were spending money! So hopefully things keep looking up for everyone! We had about 2-4 inches of snow there, and now hear that Minnesota is going to get more as well...I am SO ready for SPRING!

Off to UPS!

2009-03-11T10:32:00.000-07:00

Whew! Sorry for my lack of communication, but I have had a deadline hanging over me that created a complete standstill from life for a couple of weeks! But I am finally done creating pieces, tagging, detailing, taking inventory, creating boards, packing, and shipping! Now it is back to my increasing stack of custom orders that have been put off due to the deadline for my Rep! So a big huge 'sorry' to those of you who have been patiently waiting, but your orders are coming soon to a mail box near you! I'm off to UPS!

Eggrolls.....continued!

2009-02-24T09:03:00.001-08:00

Well, it looks like we had this ref after all for Saturday's game! We ended up losing ( but not really ) 2 - 3 in overtime. We have watched the replay on tv over and over again, and the puck never crossed the goal line! So, our bid to make it to State has ended for this season, and I guess life goes on. All I can say is that I wouldn't be so thrilled to get to State by means of a huge blunder!

So, on to life as normal...I got back from Milwaukee last night, and am now on to unpacking, inventory, and getting orders done and shipped. I had a great meeting with a store there, Urban Laundry, and they are now carrying my work. Thanks Jeni! They are in the village of Wauwatosa on Harwood Ave, amongst a whole bundle of other awesome little shops! After the appointment, before heading out for the 5 hour drive home, I stopped next door for lunch at Le Reve Patissere & Cafe. This is a photo of my Chicken Forestiere Crepe and I can honestly say that is ranks in the Top 10 meals that I have ever eaten! If you are ever in the area, I recommended you stop in to BOTH shops! Off to work!

Eggrolls?

2009-02-19T16:43:00.001-08:00

Glad we won't have this ref for Saturday's game! Just a quick photo tonight, then I am off to finish a big batch of new earrings! Etched copper and brass! I will try to post a photo of them after I get back from Milwaukee...if there are any left! : )

Too close for comfort!

2009-02-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Well our girls won again last night, 2 - 1 over White Bear Lake! It was a close one though, they waited to get the winning goal until there were only 19 secondes left! Kendal took a slapshot from the point, and Bethany tipped it in! Very exciting! Now we play for the Section Championship on Saturday against Stillwater.

I am off to the studio to continue making pieces for my Rep. Here is a photos of one of them!

Happy Valentine's day!

2009-02-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Looks like I get to spend it with my sweetie in an ice arena...we are so romantic! : ) Wow, the weeks go by SO fast! Our girls won 9 - 0 last night, so it is on to the next game on Tuesday! We are in full work mode here today in the CB&CO studio! It has gotten down into the 20's again here is Minnesota, so it will be nice to be working away in a warm place!

Game Day!

2009-02-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

It's game day here, and we are so excited! I finished up the necklaces for the team last night and handed them out at practice, I forgot to take a picture, but will get one posted when Kendal gets home from school! GO RAIDERS!!

So it is back to the studio to continue making samples for my line, 7 pieces ready to go, about 43 left! I have made them all before, and do have more completed, I just need to pull them from my inventory. I am hoping to come up with a few totally new designs as well. Oh, and getting stock ready for my Milwaukee show next weekend! Better get to work, have a great day!

Wow, it's Thursday!

2009-02-12T05:43:00.000-08:00

Where does the week go? One more day 'till game day, it is our first section game here tomorrow, and the girls are really excited! Last night they made t-shirts to wear for Friday, and tonight will be a carbo load to get them ready for tomorrow!

I'm off to the studio to finish up a big batch of necklaces I made to give the girls, and then onto making samples for my Rep! March 10th is going to come all too quickly, that is when everything needs to be in the mail for her!

If you are in the Milwaukee area on the 22nd, stop by the Wyndham Hotel from 10 - 4 for the Milwaukee Bead Show, hosted by Knot Just Beads!

Have a great day!

I have a Rep!

2009-02-10T07:55:00.000-08:00

Mixed emotions this morning, after I was taken on by a Rep yesterday! I am really excited, but panicked at the same time. I have a lot to do in a small amount of time, getting my line ready, creating display boards, plus keeping up on orders and getting ready for shows!

Hockey season is winding it's way towards the finale, we are getting ready to start section playoffs this Friday and are excited to see how the team does. It's a bit scary being ranked #1 in the state going into playoffs, as it does tend to put a bigger target on your back, but the girls are playing great!

Off to the studio!

It's a sad day...

2009-01-29T10:35:00.000-08:00

Brad's Grandma died yesterday afternoon. Vera was a wonderful lady, and the last surviving Grandparent that Brad or I had. She is the reason for many, many happy childhood memories for Brad.
Vera, you will be missed. xoxo

Welcome!

2009-01-27T09:19:00.000-08:00

Well I am finally entering the world of blogging! Check back for updates from the studio and other happenings here at CB&CO!