Ladie Jaye's Designs

Back to blogging!

2011-10-20T14:36:00.001-04:00

Hey Blogger world. Sorry I haven't posted in a while I had a lot going on. My mother passed on Labor Day then I went to Louisiana to scatter her ashes.

I'm still designing and no longer have the Etsy account. I save money by selling directly from the Facebook page so I want to invite you to LIKE the page @ http://facebook.com/Jewelrydesignsbyladiejaye

I'm going to be posting here more often so stay tuned!

Quartz wrapped in copper and silver

2011-06-16T14:55:00.001-04:00

Tigers Eye pendant in copper

2011-06-10T13:30:00.001-04:00

Tigers eye is a protective stone that protects against ill wishes and curses. It shows the correct use of power and brings clarity of intention.

Tigers eye anchors change into the physical body while showing you how to recognize both your needs and those of other people. It shows you what's wishful thinking and what you really need.

Sugilite In silver and copper

2011-06-04T12:43:00.001-04:00

Sugilite represents love and wisdom. It opens up all the chairs to the flow of love and align them. It lovingly protects the soul from all shocks, trauma, and disappointments.

Sugilite is great for working with groups as it eliminates hostility, and encourages loving communication.

posted from Bloggeroid

Titanium coated Drusy quartz

2011-06-03T12:34:00.001-04:00

posted from Bloggeroid

New Multigem Hoop Earrings

2011-04-04T07:57:00.001-04:00

These will make any outfit fab!

An Aluminum base adds stability to the earrings and the copper and multicolored gemstones add pizazz!

The Gems are Amethyst, Citrine, Carnelian, Blue Quartz, Peridot, Clear Quartz, and Garnet

PROPERTIES OF AMETHYST

Amethyst promotes love of the Divine, soothes the mind, and protects against psychic attacks. It balances out highs and lows, smoothing and centering the emotions

PROPERTIES OF BLUE QUARTZ

Blue Quartz also calms the mind while purifying the bloodstream and strengthening the immune system.

PROPERTIES OF CITRINE

Citrine brings to you the healing energies of the sun. It absorbs and transforms negative energy into pure love while protecting the wearer.

PROPERTIES OF CARNELIAN

Carnelian grounds and anchors you in the present reality. It's a stabilizing stone with high energy. It's stimulates creativity and restores vitality.

PROPERTIES OF CLEAR QUARTZ

Quartz is the most powerful amplifier and healing stone on the earth because of it's unique helical spiral crystalline form. Holding a quartz in your hand will double your biomagnetic field.

PROPERTIES OF GARNET

Red Garnet represents love and is attuned to the energy of the heart. It revitalizes feelings and enhances sexuality. It also controls anger, especially if it's anger directed toward you by you.

PROPERTIES OF PERIDOT

Peridot is a powerful cleanser. It releases and neutralizes toxins on all levels, whether they be spiritual or physical. Burdens and guilt stand no chance against Peridot.

I have a new Facebook Page just for my jewelry

2011-03-09T09:57:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

I set up a new FB Page just for my jewelry and hopefully it will gain more sales as I really need the money since I am running low on supplies.

Anyway, it's just going to be for my jewelry only--no art or Art4TH promos on this page. Of course, anyone is welcome to post their own links as I am always about supporting other artists.

It's a new page so please, come on over and visit Jewelry by Ladie Jaye

Sorry I haven't posted in a while

2011-03-08T21:08:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!

I am sorry I haven't blogged in a while. So much has happened with my mother again--she was back in the hospital for almost three weeks. We found out she has a blood clot in the tummy, needs a feeding tube, and that her diabetes has advanced to affect her GI tract--in other words she has problems digesting some foods now--which is why we have the feeding tube.

I do have more designs coming soon but my boss has me down for more hours to work so I will be very busy--but will try to do something and blog at least once a week.

Life is hectic as always but I'm goin with the flow.

Herkimer Diamond with Carbon Inclusion wrapped in 14K Gold

2011-02-09T14:35:00.003-05:00

This is a really cool piece of Herkimer Diamond--it has a beautiful piece of carbon inside it kind of like a shadow. It resembles a Smoky Quarts at first glance. It's double terminated meaning it has two points: one on either end. And I used 4 pieces of 21 GA 14K Gold Filled Wire to wrap it.

Herkimer Diamond energizes and promotes creativity also detoxifies the body. It protects against radioactivity and treats disease caused by contact. It helps relieve insomnia caused by geopathic or electromagnetic stress and pollution, corrects DNA, cellular disorders and metabolic imbalances.

Herkimer Diamond stimulates attunement to the highest spiritual levels and to your own potential. It clears all chakras and opens channels for spiritual energy to flow.

Click here to BUY NOW!

Clear Topaz with Flame inside wrapped in 14 KARAT Gold

2011-02-08T00:40:00.002-05:00

When I bought this Topaz, I didn't notice the "flame" on the inside until after I'd wrapped it. The 14K Gold is what brings it out. In each of the photos, if you look closely, you will see a tiny orange-reddish inclusion. I call it a flame.

Topaz is a powerful stone in the way that quartz is. It is a balancing and calming stone that balances emotions, releases tension, balances emotions, and can bring joy.

Topaz stimulates the metabolism and digestions, heightening the taste buds! According to ancient traditions, it will stanches the flow of blood, and promote relaxation by easing tension.

Physically, topaz aids with gout, blood disorders, hemorrhages, poor appetite, tissue regeneration, tuberculosis, aging (reverses), endocrine system

Clear topaz is good for stimulating spiritual awareness and purifying feelings and emotions. Use clear topaz when trying to understand personal karma.

This piece is wrapped in 4 pieces of 21 GA 14K Gold filled wire.

Click here to BUY NOW!

14K Gold and Peridot Dangles

2011-01-28T12:33:00.004-05:00

I made this pair with 22 GA 14K Gold filled wire I bought from Wire-Sculpture.com. The ear hooks are made from the same gold, and that was my first time actually making my own ear-hooks.

These are a dainty and elegant pair and the gold and Peridot compliment each other nicely.

PERIDOT PROPERTIES:

Peridot protects your aura, is a powerful cleanser (gets rid of negative energies) detoxifies your body and spirit, and purifies the mind.

Peridot opens up the heart and solar plexus chakras and cleanses them. Burdens, guilt, and obsessions are cleared and Peridot gently teaches you that hanging on to the past is what's holding you back from your destiny.

CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW!!!

Filing 501c3

2011-01-27T21:12:00.004-05:00

Okay, so my dream is very close to coming true. Hart and I worked tediously on the paperwork for the 1023 application for 501c3 Tax Exempt Status. You see, Art4TheHomeless, the organization that I have dreamt of and put the past 5 years of my life into, needs to be a fully functional charitable organization.

Here's how it works. Say Art4TH needs $50 bucks for something. If we are Tax Exempt, a corporation could sponsor the $50 and write it off on their taxes for that year. If Art4TH isn't Tax Exempt, then they won't do it.

With this status, we could raise thousands for our goals: setting up a center where we can host events that raise funds for local and national homeless shelters and food bank and other charitable organizations.

Anyway, Hart and I spent a total of about 24 or so hours doing this paper work. An anonymous donor donated a huge chunk of the $400 tax exemption fee and the rest came from the fundraiser we held at The Five Spot back in July.

Today, with the check for the $400 Tax Exemption Fee, we mailed the 1023 Application for 501c3 Tax Exempt Status and had it shipped overnight. The IRS will receive it by noon tomorrow, and yes, we sent it certified mail meaning I will get a signature stamp back.

Now we wait, and while we wait we plan. It could be a 6--8 month waiting period, or so I've read and heard.

115 Page application

Hart putting everything together

Getting ready to be shipped!

Malachite and Peridot Earrings

2011-01-27T10:18:00.004-05:00

These are a pair of elegant earrings that bring the essence of both Malachite and Peridot to your presence.

PERIDOT PROPERTIES:

Peridot protects your aura, is a powerful cleanser (gets rid of negative energies) detoxifies your body and spirit, and purifies the mind.

Peridot opens up the heart and solar plexus chakras and cleanses them. Burdens, guilt, and obsessions are cleared and Peridot gently teaches you that hanging on to the past is what's holding you back from your destiny.

MALACHITE PROPERTIES

Malachite soaks up plutonium pollution and easily absorbs negative energy--it must be cleansed by placing on a quartz cluster in the sun. Do not use with water--or if you do, please wear gloves. Water that has touched Malachite is TOXIC, but Malachite itself can be safely worn as jewelry. Do not use salt--it will damage the stone.

Malachite amplifies both positive and negative energies and grounds both into the planet. Malachite protects against radiation and opens the heart to unconditional love. Malachite works with all chakras and will mercilessly show you what's blocking your spiritual path.

Click here TO BUY NOW!

Clear Topaz Reversible Pendant is featured in Homelessness Advocates Daily!

2011-01-25T17:18:00.004-05:00

I am so wowed and honored! The Homelessness Advocate Daily is a collective online newspaper that combines news about homelessness, homeless organizations, advocates and more all in one place on the web.

As a homeless advocate myself, I sell my jewelry to raise money for three homeless organizations and also money for supplies. The cost of copper, gold, and silver are pretty steep.

Also, I am the founder of Art4TheHomeless and envision a huge, worldwide movement at raising awareness of homelessness in the US and changing the perception of Americans toward their homeless fellow citizens.

Anyway, feel free to check out the Homelessness Advocates Daily.

Citrine Geode wrapped in Copper

2011-01-22T13:44:00.004-05:00

Citrine is a powerful cleanser and regenerator. Citrine carries the power of the sun, warms and energizes one who wears it. This is one of the crystals that never needs cleansing as it absorbs, transmutes, dissapates and grounds negative energy.

Citrine is an aura protector, cleanses all chakras, balances the subtle bodies and aligns them with the physical.

Citrine is a happy, generous stone of abundance and promotes the energy of giving.

This piece is made with 4 pieces of 20 GA copper wire.

Click here to buy now!

Charoite wrapped in Copper Pendant

2011-01-21T15:24:00.003-05:00

Charoite is a stone of transformation, a soul stone that can overcome fear. Charoite is your best friend when it comes change on spiritual levels, cleanses the aura, and activates the crown and heart chakras.

Charoite embraces negative energy and transforms it into healing energy, converting disease into wellness. Charoite regulates the blood pressure, treats eye infections,the heart, liver, and pancreas.

Charoite bestows deep sleep with powerful dreams and overcomes insomnia.

This piece is wrapped with 4 pieces of 20 GA copper wire.

Click here to buy now!

New changes in the Etsy Shop

2011-01-21T00:02:00.004-05:00

Until recently, I was selling jewelry online to benefit Art4TheHomeless to raise the $400 IRS Tax Exemption fee. We have had a generous donor donate the rest of the money needed to file 501c3 for Art4TH.

Also, I was selling to raise money for The Homeless Project. Each organization received 20% of all my sales. Well, due to me needing money and not selling, Both Art4TH and THP will receive 5% of each sale and I have added another homeless organization: The Metro Atlanta Task Force for the Homeless.

I live right across the street from them and have been meaning to do more but haven't had the chance to. Anyway, I know 5% isn't much but it's all I can do at the moment.

Also, until recently, I was covering the shipping on all jewelry sales. That has also changed. It will cost $2.00 to ship in the US and $3.00 Internationally. But this is for a good cause and I am sure you guys will LOVE to see some of my newest stuff! I will be posting more tomorrow!

Green Aventurine in Oxidized Copper

2011-01-14T12:37:00.001-05:00

The darkening copper brings out the depth in this beautiful piece of Green Aventurine

Green Aventurine is a comforter and heart healer. It harmonized, protects, and loves the heart bringing things back into control and is helpful with malignant conditions. It soothes nausea and dissolves negative emotions and thoughts. It's a calming heart chakra stone that enhances love and tranquility.

This piece is wrapped in 4 pieces of 18 GA Oxidized copper wire

CLICK HERE TO BUY!

Customer Pic: Saz and her Lapis

2011-01-12T14:47:00.004-05:00

My customer who bought the lapis pendant posted her pic with it up on my Facebook page and gave me permission to blog it. So here it

is!

SNOW DAY IN ATLANTA!!!!

2011-01-10T14:37:00.005-05:00

Guess what yall?? I'm off today!!! That's because the snowstorm of the South shut the whole city down! The pic directly below this is MY footprint in the snow on the 3rd floor balcony. And you can't even see the floor of the balcony because of the snow! That's a LOT of snow!

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-01-04T05:39:00.004-05:00

It's a New Year and time for another giveaway!!!

This time I am giving away a 4 in by 6 in oil painting of a sunset over the ocean on canvas panel. I signed it in the bottom corner with a paint brush: JC and of course there will be more info on the back about it proving the authenticity.

It's perfect for a cubicle or small shelf at home! And as always, all you have to do is just LIKE me on Facebook and tell your friends about my artist page!

Sold to a lab tech who works in the hospital!

2010-12-30T11:24:00.004-05:00

I'll be selling this one today to Fred, a lab tech who I met yesterday while he drew some of Mom's blood. We got to talking about stones and stuff and he wants this piece. I also felt it call to him.

So take a good look at this beauty--I will surley miss it but it is going to the person it needs to help next ;) It's on it's journey as we all are.

Glowing Moonstone wrapped in Oxidized Copper

2010-12-28T13:39:00.002-05:00

I wrapped this a couple of weeks ago in the nursing home Mom was in, but in a rush to get to the ER for Mom again, I've misplaced it, so as of right now, it's not for sale. But this is a Moonstone and I wrapped it with 4 pieces the 22 GA Oxidized Copper wire that I bought from Just Wire on Etsy

Christmas in the Hospital

2010-12-23T12:56:00.003-05:00

So much has happened in the past couple of weeks I can not keep up.

Mom is back at Grady hospital again with a urinary infection so bad it makes her urine look like chocolate syrup.

She knows who I am this time, but has been delerious on and off for the past few days, has slurry speech, and even the doctors so worried about it being contagious that even I have to wear a protective gown--I found this out after being with her for 8 or so hours without the gown but since I am young and have a stronger immune system I should be fine was the diagnosis for me.

So, I've got the cranberry juice in a glass along with some airborne tablets with the 1000mgs of Vitamin C to give myself an extra boost and hope for the best.

Meanwhile, I bought myself a Christmas present. My phone, the Samsung Caliber is so messed up. I couldn't access the internet, receive video or picture messaging yet I was paying for it. Metro PCS has a new Android phone and it's only $99. I used my tips for the whole week to get it and I love it though it does freeze up from time to time. Sometimes I can't even make a call. We'll see how it goes because I really don't want to have to keep going back and forth to the store over these phones that don't work.

I haven't been creating in days--don't have the time. I'm usually in a hospital or at my job.

But I do want to wish all my loyal readers and friends a very Merry Christmas. Yes, this year, as with all the other holidays this past year, I will be hanging out in a hospital on Christmas.

It's sad.

The doctors were going to move a guy into the room my mother has. He died unexpectedly and sent the whole ER staff into chaos last night. I did pray for him and his family. Him dying boosted my mother's priority up and she got her bed fast which is rare at Grady.

14K Gold earrings with Peridot

2010-12-21T09:15:00.003-05:00

I used the leftover 14K Gold Filled Wire I had from the pendant to make these adorable dainty earrings. And the ear wire is also the same type of wire since I ran out of the ones I got from Michaels--gotta pick up some more in the near future.

Treat for me: Green Onyx wrapped in 14K Gold filled wire

2010-12-16T15:40:00.003-05:00

Ok I sold the Lapis and used the money I had left over from donating to both Art4TH and The Homeless Project to buy 14K gold filled wire. And a Green Onyx stone. I've always wanted a piece of gold jewelry and this is for me. Another treat for myself. I have left over wire from the piece and will use it to make a pair of earrings to sell.

Green Onyx has all the same properties as Black Onyx but is great for the Heart Chakra. It's strength giving. It provides support in difficult or confusing circumstances and during times of enormous mental or physical stress. Centering your energy and aligning it with a higher power, accessing higher guidance, is facilitated by onyx as is connection with the whole. It can take you forward to view the future and, with its capacity to impart personal strength, facilitates being master of one's destiny.

This stone promotes vigor, steadfastness, and stamina. It aids learning lessons, imparting self-confidence and helping you to be at ease in your surroundings

Wired Up Pendant with Rose Quartz and Garnet

2010-12-15T06:08:00.003-05:00

I made this little funky pendant from copper and aluminum scrap wire and added a Rose Quartz bead and a Garnet bead to add pizazz to that funky little look!

This is great to wear and is very light. Rose Quartz and Garnet together bring about the energies of love, protection, and the Garnet gently amplifies each.

Featured in an Etsy Treasury!

2010-12-14T00:59:00.006-05:00

I am so excited about this! My Ruby in Zoisite Pendant was featured in a Treasury on Etsy!

'Fantastic Finds for $20 or Less' by tyvm

Inexpensive-yet-unique gifts for all your last-minute shopping -- from those of us working toward our first 100 sales. If you're interested, we have a team: Team A.C.M.E. (Aspiring Century-Mark Etsians) http://www.etsy.com/teams/6778/aspiring-century-mark-etsians-acme Anyone is welcome!

Christmas Special H... Crystalphotogr... $4.05	Satin Clutch with F... mcallistertuxe... $20.00	Bicycle Brass Neckl... xPiebaldx $16.00
Fabulous Sale 40% o... flygirl98001 $3.00	Gears and Glass Con... Bluestarfire $15.00	Japanese fabric cov... ElliesPrettyTh... $4.50
French Vanilla and ... ImbuedOasis $3.95	Ruby in Zoisite Pen... LadieJaye $20.00	Rose Linen Water 8 ... NaturalEarthOi... $5.00
Set of two (2) Pale... ShellyNewYork $4.95	Double Swirl Adjust... CoolWaterGems $7.00	ACEO Bamboo Waterco... jcstrong $12.00
Coral and Swarovski... adornmentsbyju $14.25	Children's Apro... ZeppoAprons $9.00	SALE 50% OFF - FREE... CreatedRose $5.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Check out ma BLING! Herkimer Diamond in Copper

2010-12-09T10:06:00.004-05:00

I was going to list it but at the last moment I couldn't. The stone was a gift to me--he told me to use it how ever I wished. I was going to sell it to benefit Art4TH and The Homeless Project, but i am too attached. Right now is not the time for me to part with it.

IT is a Herkimer Diamond. Herkimer Diamonds are double terminated quartz crystals that are a little bit different than regular quartz. Herkimer Diamonds have the appearance of hand cut diamonds even though they are naturally occurring.

Herkimer diamonds are found in dolomite rock, a layer of limestone that was created millions of years ago when New York State was the floor of a shallow ocean. Many layers of sedimentary rock covered the region. During the Ice Age, glaciers pushed through the region. As the vast sheets of ice began to melt, water washed away some of the rock and exposed the dolomite rock that contains Herkimer diamonds.

A typical Herkimer has 18 facets which gives it the appearance of a diamond.

Herkimer Diamond is a very high energy crystal that holds a significant amount of energy and can hold structures in place. These gems provide a sacred geometric structural attunement that has the ability to re-align other structures that aren't so perfect. For that reason, Herkimer is a compliment to just about any healing practice, to the pursuit of personal goals and to any meditation. It locks energy patterns into perfect geometric harmony.

So if you are trying to regulate some imbalance in your body, or are just trying to sort out life in general, Herkimer is able to hold the energy for you as a support tool. They are also used to enhance the vision and clarity of dreams. A Herkimer Diamond has such perky energy, it is often use to provide cheerfulness to gloomy people and to deflect negative energy from people who are weak willed.

Mahogany Obsidian wrapped in Copper

2010-12-07T14:42:00.005-05:00

Mahogany Obsidian is a type of Obsidian which is a stone of vitality. Mahogany obsidian is strongly connected with the earth, grounding, drawing on strength when needed. For physical healing, it is good for pain and improving circulation.

This piece is wrapped with 4 pieces of 20 GA coper and has a wrapped bail (the part where the string goes through)

Click here to buy!

Purple Fluorite and Citrine Coppery Dangles: Great for ANY LSU fan!!

2010-12-05T15:03:00.003-05:00

These earrings are about 3 1/2 inches long and are really cute! The fluorite at the top is banded as you can see in the second picture--I have zoomed it to show the bands.

The Citrine contrasts the primary color of the fluorite--Violet and on the color wheel those two are complimentary colors.

Great for any LSU fans or any other team with the colors purple and gold!

Purple fluorite will help you meditate, bring you peace and

wholeness and focus on yourself. It is known as a spiritual stone, assisting you in to be more connected to our source. It is said to be a mystical stone.

Citrine aka Yellow Quartz carries the healing energies of the sun. t expands the auric field, filling it with light and clearing away any lingering etheric toxins. Citrine is also a wonderful manifestation crystal by motivating you into taking action. It brings optimism and cheerfulness. Citrine is a good stone for aligning all the chakras. It focuses on balancing the solar plexus chakra, which in turn integrates the lower and higher chakras.

Click here to buy!

Crowned Labradorite wrapped in Copper

2010-12-03T12:19:00.005-05:00

According to an Eskimo legend, the Northern Lights were once imprisoned in the rocks along the coast of Labrador. It is told that a wandering Eskimo warrior found them and was able to free most of the lights with a mighty blow of his spear. Some of the lights were still trapped within the stone, and thus we have today the beautiful mineral known as labradorite.

A stone of transformation, Labradorite is a useful companion through change, imparting strength and perseverance. It balances and protects the aura, raises consciousness and grounds spiritual energies. Excellent for strengthening intuition-promoting psychic abilities.

I wrapped this piece with 4 pieces of 20 GA copper wire

Click here to buy!

Lapis Lazuli, Carnelian, and Malachite wrapped in copper (3 separate pieces)

2010-12-01T09:44:00.003-05:00

These are my latest pieces:

Lapis Lazuli wrapped in Copper, this piece has 4 pieces of 20 GA copper wire

Click here to buy!

Malachite wrapped in Copper, this piece has 4 pieces of 20 GA copper wire

Click here to buy!

Carnelian wrapped in Copper, this piece has 5 pieces of 20 GA copper wire.

Click here to buy

River Dream

2010-11-30T13:14:00.004-05:00

Okay I had this really intriguiging dream last night.

I was with my husband and family and we had just settled the new land. At first I thought I was in Shreveport, my home town because the river was the Red River. I'm not sure now if I were there or not.

Anyway, we settled and started our home, planted our crops and all and one day he and I went fishing. I fell in the river and clung to a log--there were tons of logs in the river, and that's one of the main reason I thought it was the Red. When Shreveport was first settled Captain Shreve had to clear out all the logs in the Red. Anyways.

I was able to get on the log and--here's the odd part--I had my purse and bottle of perfume with me so I sprayed it on to comfort myself. I knew my husband was right behind me and he was going to rescue me.

Well the current took me and the log on an adventure. Downstream I noticed these beautiful lit buildings that were of another time. They were lit up, but I knew they were empty. Then the river forked. The current took us onto the right side of the fork.

Then I found myself in a makeshift little boat. I saw this huge ship with a bunch of lifeboats pass me by and I noticed the life boats were swinging.

Okay the river takes me to a group of Native Americans--I think they were Americans I am not sure. Well they were in their home and all asleep. So I parked my boat and went into their bathroom to clean up.

I heard them--they started yelling and screaming in some unknown language and took off. They made sure to loosen my boat and toss the paddle into the river before they left.

So I jumped back in the river, managed to get my boat and paddle and not eaten by alligators. I made my way back home. By then, I looked different and had changed. I returned to my family and found that my husband didn't know who I was. He believed that his wife was dead and refused to accept me as alive. I whipped out my perfume bottle and sprayed it to PROVE to him who I was.

He was like, "NO I don't believe you. I looked for you and you were GONE. I went all the way to the fork and took the left fork and didn't find you" I told him the river took me on the right fork and to a camp of Natives where I cleaned up.

Then everyone was freaking out because the very same natives were coming. They had laid a trap! They watched me leave and followed me back to where I had come from.

We offered them food and everything we had.

Then I woke up.

Just so ya know, I don't have a husband or a family. Just me and my mother.

My Skillz have GROWN!!

2010-11-28T11:12:00.004-05:00

Okay for like 7 days I'd been trying to wrap this smoky quartz and couldn't do it. It was too smooth and too shiny. And then I finally figured out how to do a particular wrap--and yes, I wrapped the smoky quartz!

BUT during all this time, that little stone attached to me and it hit me yesterday that I couldn't sell it. I actually felt pure joy and exhilaration coming from the stone

itself once I put it on.

Frozen Fire Heart Pendant wrapped in Copper with Rose Quartz beads

2010-11-27T12:33:00.004-05:00

PULSE*

Her last heart beat

PULSE*

Forever frozen in time

PULSE*

Fire frozen in the ice

PULSE*

Eternal Love captured forever

This is a glass heart that I wrapped in copper and embellished with 3 Rose Quartz beads.

The poem just kinda came as I uploaded the pics.

To buy for only $15 CLICK HERE

My first ever teacup

2010-11-26T11:12:00.004-05:00

I received an awesome gift from Princess Karen Cantrell the other day! Actually, she was doing something really unique. She was donating money to charity for every picture she received of someone with a teacup.

I thought it was awesome, but I have never owned a teacup and mentioned that to her. So...she sent me one! I was totally surprised and wasn't expecting it when she told me she would and asked for my address and it came Wednesday.

Princess Karen is a real princess--she's th

e 20th Great Granddaughter of H.G. Duke John of Gaunt -4th son of Edward III, King of England, which is beyond cool in my book :)

So here's my pic with the teacup and a pic of the teacup it self. Also, here is Princess Karen's page on Facebook--you should like her she's awesome!

How I'm spending my Thanksgiving Day

2010-11-25T15:50:00.009-05:00

I want to wish all of you, my readers and friends, a happy Thanksgiving from my mother and I to you and your family!

I'm spending the day with my mother who is in the hospital. She's slept off and on most of the day. I brought the computer for her to play on while I designed some jewelry.

I cooked mac n cheese, a turkey/dressing combo, and some gravy a

nd brought it over. The hospital staff were kind to keep it in their fridge and heat it up for us...wow can I cook!!! Mom actually ate until she got full before her throat started hurting. She has Thrush--which is a funky fungus like Athlete's foot of the throat and has to use Magic Mouthwash with Lydocain to numb her throat so she can eat.

While Mom played and slept, I designed a few pieces and listed them on Etsy. 40% of all sales will be split between Art4TheHomeless and The Homeless Project.

Funky Peridot and Shell Earrings

Click here to BUY

Ruby in Zoisite pendant wrapped in copper

Click here to BUY now!

Colorful Dreams Gemstone earrings from the top: Onyx, Carnelian, Amazonite, Rose Quartz, Citrine, and Carved Cinnabar

Click here to BUY now!

Double Terminated Crystal Quartz wrapped in Copper Earrings

Click here to BUY now!

Thankful

2010-11-24T08:22:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again. Actually I love the fall and the holidays. There is so much LOVE during this time. I just wish it would last all year long. Seriously we need to have a Thanksgiving every MONTH!

I am taking the time to list all the things and non things (like people) I am grateful for.

The fact that my mother is alive (she's in the hospital but at least she's not in the morgue)

Denise and Daryl--they are like family to me

My skills, including jewelry making and wire wrapping, are growing

I have a roof over my head

I have food and clothing

I have a job

I have a job filled with coworkers who are mostly cool

And so are my bosses I also have job (same job we've discussed) where it's okay to have monthly family emergencies and not be penalized for them. Had I still been working at the casino, I would have been fired by now.

I'm thankful to have made it to my 28th birthday

I'm thankful to have made it past my 28th bday.

I'm thankful for my ability to blog and play with html

I am also thankful for my connection to my Higher Self who is teaching me a lot these days--mostly not to judge and believe me it's a hard lesson to learn. We judge over tons of things.

But more than anything, I am simply thankful to be alive--my body is breathing, heart beating, eyes blinking, pulse moving blood through my veins--I am alive.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Be safe and LOVE THY NEIGHBOR

65th post is about Seraphinite wrapped in copper!

2010-11-23T11:19:00.004-05:00

Woohoo I'm at my 65th post!!!

Anyway last night I wrapped this Seraphinite--and astounded myself. I was able to put not one, not two but three swirlies (that's what I call em) on the top. And it's STUNNING! I'm in love with this piece and hate to sell it BUT a girl's gotta make something for herself, and two charities as well.

All of my pieces are under $30 and this particular piece is $25 and THERE'S FREE SHIPPING on everything for the holidays. My gift to you is that you don't have to worry about shipping costs. Let me worry about it.

To BUY click HERE

Garnet and Silver Delights

2010-11-22T13:23:00.002-05:00

Accent any outfit with this dainty pair of earrings. You know,Garnet is an ancient stone of protection.

It is used to remove negative energy from all the chakras. Various types of garnets have their own properties in addition to those of garnet in general and may be related other chakras as well

This pair is wrapped in Sterling Silver which brings out the intense color of the garnet.

20% of the sale goes to Art4TheHomeless and another 20% goes to The Homeless Project

Click here to buy now!

Raw Emerald wrapped in Copper Pendant

2010-11-21T13:15:00.004-05:00

This beautiful raw Emerald is delicately wrapped in copper for one good reason: the colors contrast and compliment one another.

Emerald enhances unconditional love, unity and promotes friendship. Keeps partnerships in balance and can signal unfaithfulness if it changes colour. Emerald stimulates the heart chakra, having a healing effect on the emotions as well as the physical heart.

20% of the sale will go to Art4TheHomeless and another 20% will go to The Homeless Project

Click here to buy now!!!

Tree of Life Pendant

2010-11-20T13:39:00.003-05:00

This lovely pendant is shaped as a silvery leaf and inside the leaf is the Tree of Life.

The leaves are little Hematite stones. Hematite is a grounding and protection stone. It gently grounds you so you can reach out into the world.

The fruit is Rose Quartz. Rose Quartz is a stone of love. It gently shows you the many ways you can experience self love and self love is the first love you need to feel before you can love anyone else.

20% of the sales will go to Art4TheHomeless and 20% to The Homeless Project

Click here to buy

What are you doing this season to help others?

2010-11-19T13:10:00.002-05:00

Times are hard. I know. Many of us here (speaking for me of course) really are stretching things to make ends meet.

I have lived on the streets. It is not fun. Honestly, it's hell. Not knowing where your next meal is coming from. Not knowing if someone will kill you in your sleep or steal stuff from you.

My mother and I were homeless at Christmastime when I was 9, 10, and 11.

I learned something.

I learned how much people LOVE you during this time of the year. They GIVE and give and give!

As an artist who wants to start a 501c3 but has had a hard year, I have nothing--but my craft.

And a new skill: jewelry making.

So I am doing something with it. While I am, I also seek to inspire YOU, my fellow artists. Do something--even if it's small it's still something--this Christmas for the homeless shelters in your area. It can be one.

I am making pendants for the Atlanta Day Shelter. I've been there, been served, gotten food, clothing, showered and done my laundry there before.

Now it's my turn to help out.

So will you join me?

Let me know what you do. I want to blog it :)

Smoky Quartz wrapped in Copper

2010-11-18T11:33:00.003-05:00

This beautiful piece is one of the pendants I am doing for the ladies at the Atlanta Day Shelter, so it is not for sale. I am really putting this out there about what I am doing because I want others to do something for their communities.

Homelessness is not fun. I've been there. Many are there now. I do what I can, but I want to do over and above. So, as an artist, and a lady, a beautiful work of art that moonlights as jewelry would make my day if I were living in a shelter at Christmastime.

I think this is a cool design that I did ;)

2010-11-15T15:13:00.003-05:00

This is a raw emerald and has three polished rose quartz beads. Both emerald and rose quartz are stones that help with the heart--healing emotions and physical conditions. I wrapped them in copper and this is my fave design. This piece is not for sale as it is going to be, along with many others, donated to the Atlanta Day Shelter for Homeless Women and children for Christmas.

Carnelian wrapped in 14K Gold earrings.

2010-11-10T11:34:00.003-05:00

I wrapped two Carnelian beads in scrap 14K gold that was given to me by my mentor and here is the result! One beautiful pair of elegant earrings!

It's my birthday!!!

2010-11-04T00:32:00.002-04:00

And I am staying positive.

Yesterday at this time my mother was rushed back to the Emergency room so please keep her in your prayers.

I am spending my birthday by her side then headed to work so I treated myself to some wine and cake. I am going to stay positive and I just simply ask that you pray for me and send some positive vibes my way also.

Halloween! It was such fun :)

2010-11-01T14:47:00.004-04:00

I had to work but my boss let me dress up my uniform a little! I did the make up with acyrlic paints, an eye crayon and some glittery make up that I won from The House of Imagination on Etsy.

Universal by Johnna Crider

2010-10-25T18:03:00.003-04:00

Universal by Johnna Crider

Love is Universal. It flows within us as blood
It is our essence in spirit

Let us choose to love one another
For we are the offspring of Love
Sons and Daughters of the Universe

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY 3!!!

2010-10-20T17:40:00.004-04:00

I am giving away my very first original oil painting. It is called Fire Within and is on a 4X6 canvas. The drawing will be held on Halloween and if you want it, Like me on Facebook :)

Sketches by my Opposite (LEFT) Hand

2010-10-17T13:29:00.002-04:00

I drew these with my left hand though I am right handed :)

Today is World Homeless Day

2010-10-10T09:00:00.002-04:00

World Homeless Day/October Edition of the Art4TH Video Webzine

Haven't blogged in a few days

2010-10-05T23:45:00.002-04:00

Life has grabbed me by the hair and threw me across the room and over the balcony....well that's how my body and mind feel.

I have been taking care of my mother and working full time haven't had the time to create anything new. When I get time I just want to rest because I am so exhausted.

I do meditate and am beginning to see auras and intentions. And my mother predicted someone dying as they died...yeah...I was on the phone with my friend who knew the person and confirmed they were dead.

So it looks like my mother has some gifts too.

Winner of the Fanpage Giveaway 1,000-1,100

2010-09-27T11:10:00.003-04:00

On my art page on Facebook, I am now at 1,099--it was 1,100 but someone unliked me :( We still had the drawing and our winner, Bill Barnes will receive the poster of the Atlanta Sunset (above without the Zazzle Logo) as soon as he sends me his mailing address!!

We will have another drawing for people who LIKE my page--people who are fans 1,100--1,200!

Do YOU like my me?

Click here to check out my art and like my Facebook Artist page!

Awakening

2010-09-21T17:27:00.005-04:00

For about three years I have been working on this story--a novel and last night I finally finished the first draft. I would love some opinions and am giving away ebooks of Awakening. Any advice and constructive criticism is welcome. Here is a brief description of Awakening. Send me an email at art4thehomeless@clear.net if you wish for a copy!

August 28, 2005: Hurricane Katrina is on the way and Anais Beaulieu, trained assassin for her wealthy adoptive mob family, finally gets to escape after learning the truth of their involvement in her family’s gruesome murders and has fled to Atlanta to start anew.

Anais receives an inheritance from an aunt who she just meets: a mysterious ring that is being sought after by international terrorists who are a part of The Order of Olympus, an ancient enemy of Atlantis—and enemies of the descendants of Atlantis. Anne is continually stalked by the number 111 and a white panther who takes her back in time.

Anne is surrounded by new friends, including a pair of wealthy twins: Louk and Guen Shelumiyel, descendants of the last king of Atlantis and members of the Order of Olympus who claim they want to protect Anne and even possess the twin to Anne’s ring—only after Anne bleeds on it and it changes color to reveal in golden script: 111. Anne has previously met Louk at a Mardi Gras ball back in February.

Dogged by death and attempts on her own life, Anne and her new trusted friends are committed to finding out the truth about Anne’s own ancient lineage and the reason why people want her dead.

Starseeds~I think I may be one

2010-09-18T20:00:00.003-04:00

I was raised as a Christian but lately, I have been feeling that there was something not quite right with the whole You are going to go to Hell thing. Why would God, who loves us, cast us away?

For the past few years I have been followed by the number 111 and also 1111. After doing months of online research and reading various new age books, I learned that the numbers are "wake up calls" to those who are Lightworkers, Starseeds, Indigo/Crystal Children.

Just in 2009 I have discovered the energies of crystals and gems. They are alive, yes! Even the Bible says that the rocks will call out to God.

All my life, I have felt out of place. I have always wanted to contact my family--due to the fact that other than my mother, I never knew them. I have always felt out of place and have had several total strangers walk up to me and tell me that the see the light in me--that I am unique. I have had people give me money because they felt led to one time--and it happened to be on my birthday LOL! I got my ears pierced with that money.

So why a Starseed?

Well, one of my stones is a Moldavite and that stone actually is a mix of an emerald stone falling from space combined with the earth as it crashed with the force of a few megaton bombs.

Moldavite is a stone for people who are Starseeds and feel lonely--or homesick. I have always felt the intense loneliness and yes, holding the stone soothes it.

I have never had any "alien" encounters but my third eye is opening. Yes, I see things now--glimpses of light beings and I know that I am not alone.

I feel very nervous about admitting this because I know that I will be judged and condemned to hell by some of my friends--not in a literal since but they will feel as if I have made the wrong choice and will be hurt by that.

There is no heaven and hell. There is only the LIGHT.

However, out of love, I will respect all of my friends who take part in any religion and ask that you respect my decision as well.

I am a Starseed--a light being. I am also new to this and am discovering who I really am. I have connections to Atlantis--I have always had dreams about other places and know in my soul that I am connected--I cannot explain how I know--I just know.

I am who I am and I hope that you, my friends, accept me. If not, then I will love you always.

Crystal Quartz wrapped in Sterling Silver

2010-09-16T13:41:00.005-04:00

This is a great stone for meditating with or for adding that touch of light to your outfit! This crystal quartz is hand wrapped in sterling silver and will bring a sense of light to your aura.

Click here to buy now!

Rose Quartz wrapped in Sterling Silver

2010-09-14T11:38:00.004-04:00

This pendant comes with the cord and will add a rosy glow to any outfit. The silver adds the touch of elegance for elegant or even casual wear.

Metaphysical properties of Rose Quartz include bringing the energies of Divine Love to your aura and will help you learn to accept and love yourself as the essence of Divine Love that you are.

View from my balcony

2010-09-13T15:07:00.002-04:00

Egyptian Ankh, Tree Agate, Rhodonite

2010-09-12T02:30:00.004-04:00

Egyptian Ankh Cross with Tree Agate and a small Rhodonite bead is still for sale in my shop. It's only $15!

Click here to BUY NOW!

Abstract Soul

2010-09-11T19:24:00.006-04:00

You look at me and see my light complexion on the outside

But only through my eyes you glimpse of an ever-changing color

Dawn kisses the sky with the music of turquoise and aquamarine

Streaking the canvas with peach and lavender

Clouds slowly re-birthing a new song

Colors all around I feel them

A living, breathing pure throbbing color

Explode in my soul take a paint brush

And go--let it flow

Color the paper with my soul

If I had to pick just one I would pass

Why just one?

I am ever-changing

Today I am mahogany streaked with teal

And golden embers of beginning life

Look into my eyes see the abstract shapes dancing

Look at my soul

Tomorrow's another piece of white canvas

Waiting to be painted upon

Color is my song art is the music to my being

Oxygen for the inner lung

What color am I?

Any. None. All.

Forever changing multicolored soul

Today I am different from yesterday

Another characteristic of the abstract soul

View of Sunsets from Grady Hospital

2010-09-10T09:09:00.004-04:00

Mom's back in the hospital again--but no worries! She's going to be just fine.

When they did the open heart back in July, they had to insert a balloon pump in her groin b/c they had to stop her heart. Anyway, to do the balloon thing they had to harvest her vein. The area by her knee--where the stitches were supposed to heal up, didn't.

Instead it opened up leaving a huge hole in her leg. So she's back on the operating table but no surgery. Just a serious scrub and some huge doses of antibiotics.

So anyway, her hospital room had the most stunning view of a sunset last night.

Atlanta Skyline Mousepad by Johnna Crider

2010-09-10T08:41:00.003-04:00

I have both a Zazzle account and an Etsy account. This one is from my Zazzle Gallery. The Z in the circle will NOT be on the finished product.

I took this shot from my balcony at dusk a few nights ago.

It's only $13 plus S&H and all profits I make will go to Art4TheHomeless.

Click here to buy!

Tonight's Sunset

2010-09-08T20:51:00.002-04:00

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY 2!

2010-09-05T17:01:00.003-04:00

Now that we have reached our goal of 1,000 fans we are having another give away specifically for those who join between 1000 and 1,100!

We will also have a giveaway for every 100 fans who join and also a special giveaway for when we reach 1,500!

Until then here is the next giveaway!

I took this photo and used it to make a 15" by 11" poster on Zazzle.com and plan to purchase one to give away! Now I have more for sale if you wish to purchase one for yourself or a friend and you can buy them here

OR you can become a fan of my art on Facebook and see if you win it! Who know's you may be the winner!

Malachite/Azurite Wrapped in Copper

2010-09-04T22:38:00.003-04:00

This lovely piece I wrapped is a mixture of Malachite and Azurite polished and smoothed to perfection. This stone brings together the wonderful properties of both Malachite and Azurite.

Malachite

It is especially useful for absorbing negative energies and intense electromagnetic radiation of any kind. This intake of energy is malachite's very important feature. Malachite stones are believed to function by absorbing whatever type of energy you want to get rid yourself of. Therefore, malachite is often placed on the solar plexus area, and used for pulling out of the body the accumulated negative energies, emotions, blockages, and psychic barriers. It is not possible to heal the traumas from the past without conscious knowledge them or if they are buried deep in your subconscious.

With the help of malachite, you can identify, reorganize, and release suppressed negative experiences from the past, as well as get rid of your unconscious blocks, bringing deep emotional healing to your whole emotional being. If you are constantly involved in feelings of guilt, if you carry a burden without even being aware of it, maybe you can try include malachite stones in your collection or in your home. If you use malachite stones to release negativities from your body or from your soul, do not forget to clean and purify them immediately after the self-healing treatment session. Some say malachite can help us understand love, as it represents loyalty and friendship in a relationship.

Other people compare it with jade, which is a prime stone when it comes to relationships, either romantic or not. One way or the other, the stone malachite's spiritual properties are quite strong and prominent in the area of interpersonal relationships. Malachite can also promote you creativity, concentration and astral vision. If you want to use it as a tool that can help you express yourself creatively, consider putting it on the third eye chakra and contemplate about your creative potentials. Malachite is related to the green metaphysical ray of the seven rays of light.

Azurite

Azurite is called the "stone of heaven" as it is said to aid in developing psychic awareness, psychic skills and abilities, enhances intuition, and guides you to be accurate in depicting psychic experiences.

It is also an excellent stone for meditation, allowing you to enter a meditative state easily, as well as enhancing prophesy and divination. Azurite can help control the flow of energy and bring just the right amount of it to any situation.

Azurite enhances creativity, as well as inspiration and intuition. It aids in building confidence as spiritual cleansing. It is quite useful when studying for exams as it helps one to retain information.

We Have A Winner for the Facebook Fan Page Giveaway!

2010-09-03T18:31:00.002-04:00

Guess what? We have reached our goal of 1000 fans my Artist Page on Facebook! Lydia Hickman is our winner and she will receive this lovely piece of jewelry!

14K Gold and Rose Quartz Dainty Earrings

2010-09-02T09:25:00.005-04:00

Need a touch of warmth to that outfit? These lovely dainty earrings are just for you then!

I got the 14K gold from my friend Daryl. They were pieces that he was going to toss in the scrap box and I did my thing with them and added one Rose Quartz bead to each earring.

Rose Quartz attracts love energies. Not love in the sense of romance but in the sense of self love and pure love.

Guys, they are a great gift to the woman you love!

Click here to buy now!

Yesterday's Fiery Skies

2010-08-31T11:13:00.001-04:00

Almost at 1,000 fans on my Facebook Artist page and we are having a giveaway to celebrate!

2010-08-30T17:59:00.000-04:00

I've blogged about this before but we are really close to 1,000 now and this lovely piece of agate (it may be jade) is up for grabs to a lucky winner who will be chosen by random.org. So you wanna have a go at it? You've still got time! Sign up now to become a fan! The drawing will happen once we reach 1,000.

Click here to become a fan now!

How Katrina Affected Me 5 Years Ago

2010-08-29T13:41:00.000-04:00

It was on a Sunday in late August. I was off that day and I got ready for the Trapped Truth Society meeting at Johnny's Pizza. Trapped Truth is a poetry group I attended. Back then, I was very much infatuated with this guy w ho wanted nothing to do with me. Most of my poetry was about him and how I dealt with his rejection. His excuse was a good one: we worked together. But that didn't stop him from playing mind game and my innocence getting the best of me.

I sat there with one of our friends who had just gotten back from South Louisiana. She had no idea that Katrina was bearing down on New Orleans and I vaguely remembered the storm that was supposed to hit the coast. We all thought it was nothing. Storms come and go all the time, right?

Her family managed to convince her to turn around and get back on 49 and head home.

The next day I went to work. Katrina was on the lips of everyone. I was working at Sutherlands Lumber at the time. The day wore on and I went home.

Purple Ice, one of the pieces that were in the silent auction

When the levees broke, we were all stunned. Then a couple of weeks later my landlord, got the phone call of his life. I lived at the Mid City Motor Hotel--a hotel that was converted into apartments. My mother had just moved back to Atlanta after being away for13 years to find work. She chose to make sure I was the only family to keep contact in. Our family in Georgia wanted nothing to do with us which is why moved away in the first place.

My landlord was contacted by Kevin Costner and his production crew. They were originally supposed to film The Guardian in New Orleans. They chose Shreveport and Mid City on Line and Jordan to be the Headquarters for the production. My neighbors and I were all excited.

As an artist wanting to get my art out there, I made sure my new neighbors--the crew--had some of my art. But I was in for a betrayal. My lease was up so my landlord and I met and re-signed it. Then my air conditioner went out and I was moved into another apartment that was tiny and cramped but I made do.

Everyone had family and stories. One of the members of Trapped Truth volunteered at Hirsh Coliseum, one of the shelters set up for Katrina victims, and she had horrible stories about survivors being caked in mold.

Horizon

In October, there was a silent art auction and concert held to raise money for musicians who had lost their instruments. I was invited to have art in the auction, which was an honor for me. I didn't have the time to volunteer because I was only off one day a week, but I wanted to do something good.

We were on our way to starting to recover when Rita came. This storm did hit us up in Shreveport. The eye passed over our city that day and I slept through it that evening. But that morning I was scheduled to work. It was a Saturday and a day I would never forget. I even got some pics of the storm while I was at work.

I had spoken to my boss and told him that if the buses were running then I would be there. He understood. I depended on the bus system to get around. To my shock, in the already above ankel-length water, they were running. I was out in that mess with no umbrella. I mean what was the point? This was a Category 1 storm with very high wind speed that would eat my umbrella and spit it back out at me.

Alien Cityscape Table

It was worse when I got off and my coworker gave me a ride home. The next day I was having severe chest pain but I ignored it. It got so bad over the next week that my bosses daughter took me to the hospital where I was diagnoses with pneumonia. It had filled half of my lung and started on my other lung. I was sent home with prescriptions for medicine that I could not afford: penicillin, hydrocodone cough syrup and some over the counter meds. Members of Trapped Truth rallied around me and one of them bought my art--for the exact price of my medicine. My artists friends supported me and in the light of that good news, it only got worse.

I was on bed rest and really doped up off the narcotic cough syrup when my landlord came to me and told he he was breaking our lease. Kevin Costner's movie crew needed space to live. I had 30 days to get out. I was homeless and all of my art would be lost. One of my coworkers took in as much art as she could but I knew I would never see my pieces again. My coffee table that I built was featured in an art show right before I left. It was also left behind and I am sure my landlord trashed it. All I have left are photos that I haven't scanned. I took a pic of one with my phone so you could see the table.

The Birth of December Turns the Skies into Mahogany, and yes, it's misspelled

My old friend from school, Rebecca, got in touch with me and let me stay with her. Thing is she lived in Dubach, LA which was closer to Monroe than Shreveport. I had to leave my job and that meant also admitting to myself that this guy I really felt for really and honestly didn’t feel the same. I was broken inside and honestly, it wasn’t his fault. It was my own. I stayed with Becky for about a month and then realized that Dubach wasn’t for me. So I moved to Atlanta. My mother had gotten on housing but I couldn’t stay with her so I did something for myself.

I signed up for Job Corps. Since I came from Louisiana, I was considered a Katrina victim even though I have never even been to New Orleans. People would introduce me, this is Johnna from New Orleans, and I would correct them. No, I am from Shreveport. Once I explained my story, I was told I could get aid and money from FEMA, but I refused. I didn’t lose my whole LIFE like so many did. Many people had nothing but the clothes on their backs and some didn’t even have their own clothes on their backs.

My Coffee Table

I had no money, just my few paints and brushes, pictures of my apartment, my phone which Alltel didn’t serve Atlanta. I lived in a homeless shelter in Clayton County near the Airport and I was terrified. My mother kept my things and I would bathe at her house so the ladies could have the shower. Honestly, I was just scared.

I would lose myself in music. I had a little CD player that I carried with me everywhere. I would always be going through batteries. Churches gave us food and clothes. I had nothing to give but my art. The shelter I stayed at is called Calvary and it was off of the route for bus 501 or 502 I can’t remember.

I stayed there for about two weeks when I got the news that I would be going to Brunswick, GA which is on the coast. I was to leave that following Thursday. I got there the day before Christmas Eve and I was so lonely, so achingly lonely and homesick. I just wanted to go home but I had no home. I was just an artist in a strange place where no one knew me. We went to Jacksonville to a flea market. I was given like $20 to spend on myself which was an unexpected blessing.

Some of the members of Shreveport's Trapped Truth Society

I already had my diploma from graduating high school so all I really needed was a trade. I buried myself in art. I became known as the artist on center even though there were other artists. I also found my true calling in life. I wanted to help the homeless. So I started the Art4TheHomeless Blog. Actually it was called Colors of Ink. My friend Samantha came up with the name Art4TH. I met her and many of my now close friends at BJCC. One year later, I was on the front page of the Brunswick Newspaper. They got it wrong. They said I was from South Louisiana, but they did get the city right and my name spelled right.

Hurricane Rita at Sutherlands.

My mother was kicked out of housing and back on the streets. She lived on the streets from 2006 to 2009. I transferred to the Atlanta center to advanced training and helped her as much as I could until my time was up. Then I got a job at the airport and it was short lived. I was fired for cursing at a child—which I did NOT do. I did curse but that was because I literally ripped my skin off my finger and bled all over the place. There were these military men going to Afghanistan who complained of my attitude. I took my mother in when I finally found her. It’s hard to find family on the streets and honestly, I was scared to take her in. I was scared of the responsibility that had weighed me down in the past but we were all each other had.

Photo of me at the silent auction taken by Robert Trudoe

And then I got another job working at Nancy’s Pizza—where I am now. We’d lost our home but I managed to get a storage unit to store our things. I wasn’t about to lose more art or anything else. The owner of my job, Mike G, found out and paid our rent. That same week, my mother’s disability that she was fighting for two years, got started. It helped out with rent and I covered the food. And now you know the rest—she just recently had the open heart surgery.

Me on the front page of The Brunswick News

So today I look back five years. And I still cry. And I still fight. And I still survive. And I am not the only one. My tears are for the ones lost to Katrina, the ones who lost everything, the ones struggling now, and the ones who are trying. And I am with you.

Living Amethyst Wrapped in Copper

2010-08-27T18:30:00.000-04:00

This piece is a personal piece so it is not for sale but I wanted to show it to ya :)

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-26T16:55:00.000-04:00

I am almost at 1,000 fans on Facebook. So I want to do something special. I am going to have a giveaway drawing. So far I have 913 fans. The drawing will be held after I hit 1,000 meaning that every person who becomes a fan of my page up to 1,000 will be automatically entered into the drawing. I will use Random.org to determine the winner.

The piece I am giving away is either a Jade or Agate. I am not exactly sure but is a lovely piece that I slid some copper through and made a little pendant. I comes with the black chain that my mother crocheted and a tiny lobster clasp.

Click here to see more images and become a fan now!

I have decided to share one of my paintings with you

2010-08-25T17:35:00.000-04:00

This was my first ever piece when I started to taking painting seriously. I don't get to paint that often anymore due to my hectic life. I mostly make jewelry and take photography nowadays but I thought I would share my art with you anyways.

Two Year Anniversary of the Art4TheHomeless Webzine

2010-08-25T10:24:00.000-04:00

Art4TheHomeless is my dream to unite artists of all venues to promote homeless awareness in the USA. The average age of a homeless American is 9 years old. I was homeless at 9. But this post isn't about me.

It is about our V-Zine (Video Zine)

Art4TH Zine first started out as a website that I would update on a bi-monthly basis. Last year, just after the first anniversary featuring Mishka, Art4TH Zine became a Video Webzine set up through YouTube.

This is the second anniversary for the Art4TH Zine and we have an awesome edition for you.

Our Feature Musician, again, is Daryl Thompson. It was originally supposed to be Mishka but I only had the verbal permission and not written permission and I didn't want YouTube to think I was committing copyright violations. Daryl Thompson is the musician who produced Mishka and is also a Grammy Award Winning musician who won the Grammy with the Black Uhuru.

Daryl Thompson with Artist Sinéad O'Connor

We have three Feature Artists:

Yvette Dubel,

Alice Pickler,

Michael D. Jenkins.

Our Feature Literary Artists is Yvette Dubel.

Our Feature Homeless Help Organization is Art4TheHomeless, since this is the 2 year anniversary of the Webzine.

So sit back, relax, and EXPERIENCE Art4TheHomeless by clicking right HERE

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-24T17:16:00.000-04:00

I am almost at 1,000 fans on Facebook. So I want to do something special. I am going to have a giveaway drawing. So far I have 896 fans. The drawing will be held after I hit 1,000 meaning that every person who becomes a fan of my page up to 1,000 will be automatically entered into the drawing. I will use Random.org to determine the winner.

So do ya wanna enter? Click here to become a fan now and automatically be entered!

Egyptian Ankh ade from Copper, Tree Agate and Rhodonite

2010-08-23T08:57:00.000-04:00

I wrapped this Ankh with copper and finished it with the Dendritic or Tree Agate and a small Rhodonite bead.

Tree Agate brings fullness and abundance to all areas of life. It is the stone of plenitude. It creates a peaceful environment and encourages the enjoyment of each moment. Deepens your connection to the earth. Dendritic Agate brings stability in times of strife or confusion. Lends perseverance and the ability to see difficulties as a challenge.

Rhodonite is a stone of compassion, an emotional balancer that clears away emotional wounds and scars from the past, and that nurtures love. It stimulates, clears and activates the heart. Rhodonite grounds energy, balances yin-yang, and aids in achieving one’s highest potential. It heals emotional shock and panic. Rhodonite aids in cases of emotional self-destruction, codependency and abuse. It encourages unselfish self-love and forgiveness. Promotes remaining calm in dangerous or upsetting situations. Builds confidence and alleviates confusion.

Lapis Lazuli: handwrapped in Copper

2010-08-21T08:55:00.000-04:00

Lapis Lazuli is a dark blue stone that brings an energy of mental clarity, universal truth and friendship to your own energy.

I wrapped this piece in copper, which is a healing metal that absorbs all impurities from your body and spirit. Lapis is a great stone for your Throat Chakra.

I am selling this one for $18 and you can buy it here!

Something pretty came in the mail the other day!

2010-08-16T10:25:00.000-04:00

UPDATE;

Got the link to the shop where my new choker came from. Go and see it here

Joy De Vivre had a giveaway on her blog and I won this beautiful choker! I wanted to thank both Joy and the artist who made the choker, LiLKT384--who signed the gift with that name.

I couldn't access the shop, though, because Etsy said it didn't exist. Anyhow, I have the link to Joy's blog for you to check out and these awesome pics of the piece I got!

I love getting pretty things in the mail!

You can visit Joy's blog here

July=Month of CHAOS

2010-08-04T11:47:00.000-04:00

This really really really looks like a wild alien invasion. It's actually the sunrise from the Grady Memorial Hospital Cafeteria that I took the day after my mother's open heart surgery.

The cool thing is that these are lights from INSIDE the cafeteria LOL.

July has been a month of chaos. My mother is much better now and I haven't had the time to be creative with jewelry or art so I made up for it by just being in the right spot at the right time to catch these amazing shots. Enjoy!

Rose Quartz and Hematite Chandelier Earrings

2010-07-27T09:57:00.000-04:00

My mother is in the Operating Room having surgery so I am just waiting it out in the waiting room and decided to post these earrings up on Etsy.

These Copper wrapped Rose Quartz and Hematite chandelier earrings are elegant for any occasion out and if you are not going out they add a touch of elegance to the casual fashions!

Rose Quartz is a stone of self love. It gently reminds you to love yourself and boosts up your self esteem. Hematite cleanses the blood and grounds you.

Combined, the two will gently enable ground yourself in your own love--the love of God or the Divine Spirit.

Click here to see the listing on Etsy!

Peridot, Hematite, and Freshwater Pearl Choker

2010-07-25T20:02:00.000-04:00

This delicate choker is the perfect accessory for that little black dress. The Hematite goes with any color and the Peridot, which in ancient times was once used as currency, adds that little sparkle. The Freshwater Pearls add that touch of elegance that makes this choker a must have!

Glass Heart with Rose Quartz Beads

2010-07-23T22:57:00.000-04:00

First I want to give an update on my mother.

She will be having a triple bypass surgery on her heart on Monday or Tuesday--we are not sure of the exact day yet but the doctors want to talk to me about it which means I need an off day real soon.

I'll get it no worries there.

So far she has had a blood transfusion to boost up her red blood cells. All her tests before the surgery showed that, unlike last year, she is better able to physically handle it.

So while she's been in the hospital, and I have been at her side--working. The piece to the left is one of many. I haven't posted it for sale as I want to take a better photo.

This piece is a glass heart that I wrapped with copper and added three rose quartz beads.

Mom's back in the hospital

2010-07-19T13:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, as I was just waking up and about to get ready for work, Mom couldn't breathe. Her inhaler didn't work either. Her face was grey so I called 911. We were rushed to the hospital with sirens screaming flying through redlights--I was in the front seat of the ambulance.

I noticed this about the medics--one in the back and one driving--the driver always tries to get your mind off of the situation by starting conversations with you--which is good.

Anyway in the ER they gave her a bimap/bymap (not sure how to spell it) treatment. Imagine you are in the passenger seat of a car, window rolled all the way down and yall are going 100 miles an hour and your head is out the window. Now imaging all that air and the pressure being sealed into your nose and mouth and the only way it has to go is into your lungs. That's what they did to my mother. And she went from grey to normal in 10 minutes.

But here's the thing: so far, the docs don't know what's going on. It's not her heart--she had several tests to prove that and we are just awaiting one more test--her cardio sonogram.

As you know, I didn't work yesterday. I am covering my coworker tonight and opening the store tomorrow so I won't get to see her until I get off tomorrow. And I won't be online much or able to hang out in the Etsy forums helping other people via twitter and just making friends.

I did some jewelry while in the ER so in a few days I will have the pics up and them on sale...but right now I have to focus on my job and mother.

Really inspiring music

2010-07-17T20:04:00.000-04:00

2010-07-16T13:41:00.000-04:00

Fallen Flower by Johnna Crider

This was painted on 8" by 5" Acrylic Paper wits is a digital print of the original, Fallen Flower, which acrylic paint.

All of my digital prints are $5.00 and all the proceeds will be donated to the Greater New Orleans Foundation to help the fishermen recover from the disaster in the Gulf.

These fishermen need food, clothes and shelter just like the rest of us. Some are now working for BP while some are still struggling.

America, we need to unite. I am doing my part. Join me. Buy a digital print that you can print out or save as wall paper. And your money will help a Gulf Coast Fisherman.

If you wish to buy this print it is only $5.00 and there is no shipping charges.

Click here to buy now!

Digital Art Prints to benefit Gulf: Greater New Orleans Foundation

2010-07-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

AUM/Eye of the Sunset

All of my digital prints are $5.00 and all the proceeds will be donated to the Greater New Orleans Foundation to help the fishermen recover from the disaster in the Gulf.

These fishermen need food, clothes and shelter just like the rest of us. Some are now working for BP while some are still struggling.

America, we need to unite. I am doing my part. Join me. Buy a digital print that you can print out or save as wall paper. And your money will help a Gulf Coast Fisherman.

Click here to buy now!

Conch Shell Wrapped in Copper with Peridot

2010-07-14T11:46:00.001-04:00

This beautiful shell was picked up on St. Simon's Island, GA when I was down there back in 2006.

I decided to make a piece of jewelry from it :) I wrapped it with copper and added 3 small pieces of Peridot to it.

This stone is known as "the healers stone" as it helps in aiding people who work in healing others to cleanse their auras and release neutralizing the toxins on all levels.

Peridot purifies the subtle bodies and mind. It opens cleanses and activates the heart and solar plexus chakra.

You can buy this piece by clicking right here

New Look! Also, would love to feature other blogs here!

2010-07-13T16:29:00.001-04:00

Since I recently had a makeover, I thought my blog should too! I love the colors and would love your comments!

Onto the featuring part. If you scroll down a bit and look to the right you will see "More Cool Blogs" That's where I want to put your blog!

So if you would like me to do that, leave me a comment with your blog's link and I will do the rest.

It would be awesome if you could do the same for me--I even have a widget built--but you don't have to.

Ladie Jaye's Designs

Back to blogging!

Quartz wrapped in copper and silver

Tigers Eye pendant in copper

Sugilite In silver and copper

Titanium coated Drusy quartz

New Multigem Hoop Earrings

I have a new Facebook Page just for my jewelry

Sorry I haven't posted in a while

Herkimer Diamond with Carbon Inclusion wrapped in 14K Gold

Clear Topaz with Flame inside wrapped in 14 KARAT Gold

14K Gold and Peridot Dangles

Filing 501c3

Malachite and Peridot Earrings

Clear Topaz Reversible Pendant is featured in Homelessness Advocates Daily!

Citrine Geode wrapped in Copper

Charoite wrapped in Copper Pendant

New changes in the Etsy Shop

Green Aventurine in Oxidized Copper

Customer Pic: Saz and her Lapis

SNOW DAY IN ATLANTA!!!!

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY!!!

Sold to a lab tech who works in the hospital!

Glowing Moonstone wrapped in Oxidized Copper

Christmas in the Hospital

14K Gold earrings with Peridot

Treat for me: Green Onyx wrapped in 14K Gold filled wire

Wired Up Pendant with Rose Quartz and Garnet

Featured in an Etsy Treasury!

Inexpensive-yet-unique gifts for all your last-minute shopping -- from those of us working toward our first 100 sales. If you're interested, we have a team: Team A.C.M.E. (Aspiring Century-Mark Etsians) http://www.etsy.com/teams/6778/aspiring-century-mark-etsians-acme Anyone is welcome!

Check out ma BLING! Herkimer Diamond in Copper

Mahogany Obsidian wrapped in Copper

Purple Fluorite and Citrine Coppery Dangles: Great for ANY LSU fan!!

Crowned Labradorite wrapped in Copper

Lapis Lazuli, Carnelian, and Malachite wrapped in copper (3 separate pieces)

River Dream

My Skillz have GROWN!!

Frozen Fire Heart Pendant wrapped in Copper with Rose Quartz beads

My first ever teacup

How I'm spending my Thanksgiving Day

Thankful

65th post is about Seraphinite wrapped in copper!

Garnet and Silver Delights

Raw Emerald wrapped in Copper Pendant

Tree of Life Pendant

What are you doing this season to help others?

Smoky Quartz wrapped in Copper

I think this is a cool design that I did ;)

Carnelian wrapped in 14K Gold earrings.

It's my birthday!!!

Halloween! It was such fun :)

Universal by Johnna Crider

Love is Universal. It flows within us as bloodIt is our essence in spirit

Let us choose to love one anotherFor we are the offspring of LoveSons and Daughters of the Universe

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY 3!!!

Sketches by my Opposite (LEFT) Hand

Today is World Homeless Day

Haven't blogged in a few days

Winner of the Fanpage Giveaway 1,000-1,100

Awakening

Starseeds~I think I may be one

Crystal Quartz wrapped in Sterling Silver

Rose Quartz wrapped in Sterling Silver

View from my balcony

Egyptian Ankh, Tree Agate, Rhodonite

Abstract Soul

View of Sunsets from Grady Hospital

Atlanta Skyline Mousepad by Johnna Crider

Tonight's Sunset

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY 2!

Malachite/Azurite Wrapped in Copper

We Have A Winner for the Facebook Fan Page Giveaway!

14K Gold and Rose Quartz Dainty Earrings

Yesterday's Fiery Skies

Almost at 1,000 fans on my Facebook Artist page and we are having a giveaway to celebrate!

How Katrina Affected Me 5 Years Ago

Living Amethyst Wrapped in Copper

FACEBOOK FAN PAGE GIVEAWAY!

I have decided to share one of my paintings with you

Two Year Anniversary of the Art4TheHomeless Webzine

Love is Universal. It flows within us as blood
It is our essence in spirit

Let us choose to love one another
For we are the offspring of Love
Sons and Daughters of the Universe