Where the Wild Things Are

They made this into a movie? I had no idea!

I Heart Humanity

My friend, Laura Harvey founded "I Heart Humanity" in November 2008, a not-for-profit organization that raises funds to place volunteers in International Human Services Projects. She just completed a three week volunteer position at the Hogar Urpi orphanage in Ayacucho, Peru.

You can read about Laura's amazing trip and learn about how you can help I heart Humanity too.

Hanging out with critters at the Wild Animal Park

We went to The Wild Animal Park this past weekend. I had a great time, saw lots of animals, plants and walked until my feet felt like they were gonna fall off.

I used to go all the time with my family as a kid, but haven't visited in several years. I guess it was easy to take for granted since it's practically in my backyard. The place is really world famous and if you find yourself in San Diego, I would advise that you visit The Wild Animal Park over the zoo (if you had to choose between the 2).

Here is just a sampling of the gazillion pictures we took!

New Jewelry

I have two new necklaces to list in my jewelry shop and you are getting a sneak preview. I love them both so much and am fighting every urge to keep them all to myself.

This first necklace is a crackly blue Kyanite and sterling silver pendant on a luscious earthy strand of Rubies.

The second necklace is a Labradorite and sterling silver pendant on a strand of icy green Prehnite (Green Amethyst) and tiny sterling silver beads.

I will have these new beauties listed soon. Let me know if you must have either necklace and I will reserve it for you.

Happy Friday (the 13th)!

I'm still alive!

Bad Lauren, you have neglected your blog for too many days. I promise it's for a good reason though.

I have been busy preparing to teach jewelry making classes. How awesome is that!!?!!

I had the great pleasure to meet and take cake decorating classes from a fabulous woman, Rosanne Zinniger. She is the mastermind behind Ro Z's Sweet Art Studio. She teaches a series of fun and amazing cake decorating classes, but her Sweet Art Studio is much more than one note. She also teaches cooking, craft and painting classes. You can even throw a cupcake party at her studio. I am thrilled to be a part the newest addition to Rosanne's sweet world - jewelry making!

For now, I will be teaching a series of project style workshops on Thursday morning's and evening's starting March 26th. In my first class, students will learn how to make my signature Swarovski Cosmic Necklace. Students will learn how to make the Cosmic bead cluster and a wire wrapping technique too. If you live the the San Diego area and want to sign up, please do! Space is limited and I don't want anyone to miss out.

Each week, you can look forward to a new project. I plan on teaching earrings, bracelets and rings too. If you miss out on the March 26th class, don't worry - I will teach the Swarovski Cosmic Beaded Necklace again in the future.

While you're here, you should also check out Rosanne's cake decorating classes. I had barely ever attempted to bake, let alone decorate a whole cake before taking Rosanne's class. Sure, I was a little scared and thought I was in over my head, but Rosanne makes it fun and possible for even the most novice of baker and decorator. I am happy to say that today I could bake and decorate a cake and be proud to share it with my friends and family. How sweet is that?