Families are always there for you, in good times, bad times, and times that try your creative soul.
Like this month. I've been designing jewelry for several years. My family has been unwavering in their support of my hobby obsession career. My mom has the best earring collection in the Midwest. My sister-in-law's bracelet collection is coming along nicely. And as soon as all the kids in the family are old enough to realize that a shiny lampworked bead doesn't taste as sweet as it looks, then I guarantee they'll be decked out in more bling than Khloe Kardashian.
I should be happy, right?
I'm miserable. You see, I'm surrounded by male relatives who are completely and utterly unaccessorized. Worse, they don't even care.
I've tried to get them excited about masculine necklaces, the kind with black cord and shells, stones, or simple silver pendants in the shape of motorcycles or eagles. I've shown them photos of cool chain maille watches. I've pointed out outdoorsy leather bracelets in trendy shop displays. I've talked up the art of beaded neckties.
After several months, I gave up and started moping. Then I had an idea. To borrow a phrase from a certain vice president candidate, I've gone rogue. Over the last few weeks, I've attached beaded zipper pulls to winter coats. I've stuck beaded pens into desk drawers. I've set out beaded coasters near the TV. I've even slipped this little beaded fish on a very studious male relative's bookshelf.
Now I'm just waiting. And smiling. Aren't families great?
About today's post:
Today I'm participating in a mass blogging! WOW!
Women on Writing has gathered a group of blogging buddies to write
about family relationships. Why family relationships? We're celebrating
the release of Therese Walsh's debut novel today. The Last Will of Moira Leahy
(Random House, October 13, 2009) is about a mysterious journey that
helps a woman learn more about herself and her twin, whom she lost they
were teenagers. Visit the Muffin www.wow-womenonwriting.com/blog.html
to read what Therese has to say about family relationships and view the
list of all my blogging buddies. And make sure you visit www.theresewalsh.com to find out more about the author.