Happy Birthday Jasper!

Jasper is One Today!

Please join me in wishing my gorgeous dog, Jasper, a Happy First Birthday! He’s named after the Jasper gemstone, one often associated with protection and good luck. I’m not superstitious, but I rather like the idea of the association.

I met Jasper’s mother so knew half the story and had a few clues as to what he might look like as an adult. We’d made the decision that smaller dogs would mean we could all travel easily together, but guessing at how big he would become was all we could do. His large paws were a sign that he wouldn’t be tiny!

Life is definitely a journey with discoveries along the way. Jasper has grown to almost 9kg and has a double coat of beautiful hair. I’ve never had a dog with that much hair before! He also has an adorable nature and an abundant character. I didn’t know how he’d turn out but have relished watching him grow up and blossom ~ he’s a wonderful companion.

Wishing you all a great day, too.

  Why is this a Compass Rose?

A Compass Rose?

I was given this beautiful yellow rose by a group of folk we met on a walk at the weekend. They’re staying here in France and have flown over from the United States to enjoy various parts of the country.

A compass rose is a figure or motif used to display cardinal directions on maps and charts. It’s also the part of a magnetic compass that shows the graduated markings. However, this yellow rose is a kind of compass rose, too.

These lovely people came over for apéros yesterday evening. They’re only here for a short time visiting the area and we talked about life and shared some of our stories – tales of our individual journeys.

We all agreed on how, for so many people, a compass is a truly significant symbol.

They’re an inspiring group of people. A big thank you to them for their company … and for the roses. I hope we meet up again soon.

  Small and perfectly formed Compass.

Small Compass

One of the reasons I started making compasses was because I wanted one for myself that was a proper working compass, beautiful and small enough to wear comfortably.

But just how small is the small compass?

When my compass creations are photographed, one image often includes a one pound coin so that you can make a visual comparison. However, my compasses journey all over the world to their new owners and seeing them next to a one pound coin may not be much help at all! So, I thought another way to show the size would be to give you an image of me holding one ~ and here it is!

My compass creations are made using a small compass – often referred to as a button compass. The button compass inside is always the same size. However, with each individual design size of the finished jewellery item may change.

Small but Perfectly Formed Compass

I’m often asked if the compass is a working compass ~ and the answer is a resounding yes!

As I’ve said, part of the drive to make them in the first place was that I wanted a compass that worked. As well as that, the compass is very symbolic to me because I look at life as a journey on which we choose our direction. The practical side of me insisted that the compass truly pointed north, too!

Each of my compass creations has a top quality compass inside with a quartz face which means it’s scratch resistant and ready for adventure! You can wear it freely and enjoy having it with you as a companion on your journeys.

The Design of the Small Compass

The original design of the compass was kept small so that it could be hidden, often sewn into the lining of a coat, during war time. A secret saviour to help you find your way if you managed to escape.

Another design consideration was that it was small enough to be swallowed so you wouldn’t have to hand it over, say, if you were captured. The idea was that, er, after a bit of a wait the compass would ‘reappear’. You get my meaning…

Can I just say that I’ve never tried this and that I don’t suggest that you do either!

  Our Picnic in the Olive Grove, The Minervois, France.

This year, I was interviewed by French Magazine about moving to and living in France. I now live and work here full time … and do, indeed, feel that I’ve Struck Gold!

The Perfect Picnic

I’ve been loving living in France with my husband and dogs for over 7 years. Last year group of us from the village enjoyed a picnic together at summertime in this private olive grove.

The idea is that everyone brings something along, often including a personal favourite, and the fare is shared. From homegrown aperitif olives and almonds to an assortment of sweets and biscuits.

Although I’m not fluent, something I’ve really noticed about living here is that the conversation in French is stimulating; topics are really discussed, points of view expressed, ideas put forward. At the same time, the food is relished and the surroundings appreciated.

What a wonderful way to spend a long afternoon.

It was heavenly … and to think that this olive grove is within walking distance from my home is more than I could ever have imagined. A wonderful highlight in my life’s journey, for sure!

Read the full article in French Magazine On-Line

(There are instructions there to show you how to turn the pages, too!)

Striking Gold

  Win This Silver Compass for the Empowered Woman!

What is an Empowered Woman?

I specialise in creating unique and beautiful compass jewellery that I often refer to as jewellery for the independent woman.

Jewellery for the Empowered Woman seems an even richer definition, however. It encompasses (excuse the pun!) the idea of a strong person, with the confidence to take control of their life.

Am I an Empowered Woman?

I’d like to think of myself as an empowered woman; one of strong character and a fair amount of confidence. I also know that some days are better than others; that some days I feel less of an empowered woman than I’d like!

For me, quality of life is about the choices you make, the ambitions and dreams you pursue and the way you choose to live. Having good friends along the way is a huge part of us making this happen for each other – sharing the journey and helping one other along the way.

My compass jewellery reflects my philosophy – we’re all navigating life in one way or another.

Are you an Empowered Woman?

Whether you are an Empowered Woman, or you know one, here’s a fabulous opportunity for you!

Enter this FREE Compass Competition to win this Silver Compass Pendant.

See more pictures of the Compass in this Competition – a great gift for the Empowered Woman in your life!