Eleven Months

Yes, it's that time again: Cookies, truffles, fudge, rich foods and champagne.

Butter.

Sugar.

Chocolate.

Egg Nog!

And my monthly check in. Yes, it's been eleven months of healthy eating for me, and this month is definitely the hardest one. I can't claim to be cookie-free . . . though I will say that I can count the number of cookies I've eaten on my fingers. I might need a toe or two before the month is over, but I won't need to borrow anyone else's hands or feet.

That's huge for me. Cookies have always been a major comfort and joy food source in my life; I love them. They're so easy to grab; they go from the jar to my tummy without a fork or a plate. Cookies are a combination of instant gratification and a trip back in time to a point when childhood was a blissful combination of butter and sugar. That might seem like a lot to ask of such a small morsel, but for me, they've always delivered.

It's a real shame about the fat, sugar and calories. Without those, cookies would be the perfect food.

I'll be cookie free-again in January. This month, I'll settle for enjoying them in moderation.

Elegant Elements, indeed!

Isn't this clasp just the prettiest thing you've ever seen? I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. And - lucky, lucky me! - it's on my bead board right now. Surrounded by piles of gold beads, pearls, Swarovski crystals, and vintage rhinestones.

Along with several other wonderful beaders and designers, I was asked to be part of an exciting challenge sponsored by The Beadsmith, a supplier of beads and bead stringing supplies to qualified wholesale distributers throughout the world. This clasp is part of their Elegant Elements collection, and it is aptly named. Beyond aptly named, actually; the picture doesn't do it full justice.

I'm weaving a lacy bracelet to set off this clasp; I wish it were going to be finished by tomorrow night so that I could wear it to a party, but I think that's overly optimistic. It will be done when it's done, I won't rush it.

I think a door just opened. I wanted a fun challenge, and I got one.