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This blog is intended to document my journey into the world of handmade artisan lampwork beads.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Portland Trip

A few weeks ago Danny and I visited my father and Karen in Portland for his 80th Birthday. As always they are wonderful hosts. We had a great time and it wasn't our celebration. We had a wonderful dinner at a very different Mexican restaurant with family and friends. It was great to see my cousin Jeanie, my god parents Barb and Dix and our good friend Robyn. My sister and her family and Karen's sons family were also there. We did not get to visit with them hardly at all due to a very long table. My father and Karen sat in the middle so they could visit with everyone. I think my father had a wonderful Birthday. The only bad part was my brother was unable to make it. Would have liked to see him.
As always Karen can find awesome stores in Portland. I of course had very little money. So these treasures were picked because they were cheap and useful. These buttons came from yarn stores and are going to make great clasps.





These are watch parts that we found in an awesome salvage store. I think with a little help they will make great earring components with my beads of course.









I found this little clasp for, get this, $1.50. I wish I had bought a couple of these. Too cute. Can't get to many unique clasps.






Then I found these silk ribbons that I think will maybe look good with my key beads or even woven in some chain. We will see.







Then as we are getting ready to go home, I find a sweet thank you note from Karen with these two beautiful clasps inside. There is nothing I like better than a leaf clasp and the ribbon looking one is just plain wonderful. Portland really does have some great shopping for the beady girl. Awesome trip. Thanks Dad and Karen for a wonderful trip. Thanks Dad for having a 80th Birthday.











3 comments:

  1. Those watch parts are pretty cool! It sounds like you had fun! :o)
    Your sister gave you nice clasps!
    I look forward to seeing what you create!
    :o)

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  2. Great finds!

    Do you remember the name of the salvage store? Would it be worth adding to my "must visit" list for my next trip to Portland?

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  3. You got some great finds there. The watch parts are very interesting and I will look to see how you will manage to incorporate them in your designs.
    Jenni

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