I'm here in Texas (I actually got here 2 days ago but was too caught up in everything so forgot to take any photos - oops).

I'm here for the Heart of Texas Retreat and having a great time. The other teachers (Nancy Cain, Sue Charette-Hood and Cynthia Rutledge) are all very talented and lovely so it's really nice to hang out with them for a few days. The venue and host are wonderful and there's plenty of time to bead and chat.

I taught a beaded bx class last night and today a Rick-Rack Starburst. I don't usually keep kits for myself as I have plenty of beadwork (and beading to do) already. And although I love black I very rarely use it in my work as it is so hard to photograph, and show detail with, but when I saw the black & gold version of this kit being worked up I just knew I had to keep one for myself!

I will have kits for this project (while they still last as the main stones have been discontinued) with me at City Beads in Chicago and Beading in the Ozarks. There are also a few with Wild Beads in Texas for the next few weeks so give them a ring if you want one. Any left after all my travels will be for sale on my website but I can't promise there will be any.