Hello everyone!
The heat of summer is definitely settling in after few weeks of cool weather and rain. (I look back fondly on those days now that I'm sweltering in my attic apartment.) However there are ways to beat the heat here in Syracuse. My friends and I have discovered the joys of the community pool in Thornden Park. A few perks of the pool: it's outside, it's filled with families and children, there's morning lane swimming and swim classes for the youngsters (which is adorable to watch), it's within walking distance (essential for we car-less students), and most importantly it's free!
However fun the pool may be, what could be a better way to spend summer than with the classic American summertime activity: the barbecue. A few times a week my friends and I gather at someone's house for some tasty food, refreshing beverages, good music and (best of all) entertaining company. This was how my Fourth of July was spent with the addition of climbing to the tallest hill in Thornden park to watch some fireworks. Nothing beats watching a hot day transform in to a warm summer night from the porch of a friend's house.
Last week held the last few days of my summer classes. (There is a second summer session but I'm not participating in any of those classes.) Although I really enjoyed the subjects that I was taking, I'm ready for a break from classes. (I'll post some photos of my work later this week.
Right now its all still wrapped up in boxes.) I have a lot of projects that I want to start in preparation for the fall and now I finally have time to work on them. Yesterday, I ordered some wax and carving tools from Rio Grande (the main jewelry tool supplier that I use) so I will be able to start making some wax models later this week. (The waxes will then be invested and cast in the jewelry studio in the fall.) I've been itching to make some new jewelry and am excited to be able start.
You've all been with me through the commission I got for the summer bride and so I'll give the last update on that project. After chatting about what she wanted and going fabric shopping together, I finally sat down to make the hair accessories. I was nervous that they wouldn't be what she expected but she seemed delighted with the finished product. So all's well that ends well. But my connections with her may not be ended yet. She works for the University and said that she and a friend have knowledge of law for artists. While many may not think of it, and understanding of law is pretty essential for artists who have to constantly protect their work and intellectual property. Since she is such a kind and delightful woman she said that after the commotion caused by her wedding settles we will meet again and chat about legal issues pertaining to artists. I'm not sure what will come of this but I have a good feeling about it.
Coming up next: another photo update
Until next time,
Gitta
