Welcoming the Fall Giveaway

Welcome to the giveaway!

In celebration of the beauty of fall weather, we are giving away this colorful necklace with a similar theme. It is  handmade by McGlamorous, with natural stones and an intricate ceramic focal. Sure to go well with your wardrobe, and worn casual or evening with just a touch of Swarovski Crystal. Welcoming the Fall

Natural stones in shades of the beautiful Fall season combine with a ceramic pendant to create a simple and casual piece that can be enjoyed all season. A little splash of Swarovski adds sparkle. 17″ 1/2 in length.

TO ENTER ::

It’s simple, just visit me on Instagram and like to win. If you would love to share with a friend and subscribe to our newsletter, that would be great too. But not a requirement.

Winners will be chosen on or by October 31st, 2020.

 

Be sure to hit that share button below, and thanks for entering! Good luck!

 

~ McGlamorous

 

“Per Instagram rules, this promotion is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. By entering, entrants confirm that they are 13+ years of age, release Instagram of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s terms of use.”

 

Hashtags :: #mcglamorousgiveaway, #giveaway, #mcglamorouscontest, #welcomingthefallgiveaway

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: The Shim Sham

 

Definition ::

Shim Sham :: An early tap movement that has endured many years and is still used extensively.

Measure / Count /  Movement

8 and – Shuffle R – Step R

2 and – Shuffle L

3 – Step L

4 and – Shuffle R

5 and – Ball change R-L

6 and – Shuffle R

7 – Step R

 

Thanks for dancing with me! Please subscribe to my YouTube channel at TheAMcGlamorous. Stay tuned for more updates and tap steps soon. Donate to it site using the Pay Pal link…if you wish…Oh, and please share.

 

~ McGlamorous

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: Rhythms on the Walk

Welcome to the first post in a series of planned videos! These are short clips of rhythm that randomly enters my head. Like music, I must stop and compose, but with my feet. I hope to share many of these ideas in hopes that you can learn from them and twist them to fit your very own creation and style! Please subscribe to my YouTube channel at The AMcGlamorous if you desire, or my email list on the front of the site.

Here we go. Walk On…Tap On…

You can add as many sounds as you wish.

 

Smile :: You’re A Star

 

Thanks for dancing with me.

 

~ McGlamorous

Crazy Socks Tap™️:: How To Tap Dance :: The Bombershay

 

 

Bombershay :: A theatrical term for which there were numerous variations

These gradually build from no flap, an added flap, and a hop shuffle. Enter A, B, C, guides.

Measure / Count / Movement

A.

1 – Step R flat ( XF of L )
2 – Step L ( to L side ) – AST ( at same time ) twist on R heel, toe raised to R side
3 – ) Repeat A
4 – )

B.

Step R (flat) XF of L
and 2 – Flap L ( to L side)
AST ( at same time ) Twist on R heel, toe raised to R side
3 – ) Repeat B
4 – )

C.

8 – Hop L
and a – Shuffle R ( to right side )
1 – ) Step R (flat) XF of L
and 2 – Flap L fwd ( to L side )
AST ( at same time ) twist on R heel, toe raised to R side
and – Brush R back (In this video I just did a step)

Visit www.McGlamorous.com for more . Thank you for dancing with me and please share!

~ McGlamorous

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How To Tap Dance :: The Balance

 

 

A basic ballet movement swaying from one foot to the other. This movement is used in various forms of tap.

Note : This video includes a three sound buildup. It begins without the flap, an added flap, and then ends with two flaps per beat. If you are a beginner you may want to stay with the first phrase.

Measure / Count / Movement

1- Step R fwd (to R side)

2- Step L (XB of R)

3- Step R fwd (to R side)

4- Rest

 

Link to more posts under the menu. Blog > Crazy Socks Tap

Hope you enjoy playing along, and thanks for tapping with me!

You can subscribe to these and more at TheAMcGlamorous channel.

~ McGlamorous

 

 

La Vida Es Un Carnivale :: In the Spirit of Mardi Gras

In the spirit of upcoming Mardi Gras, we celebrate with dance, music and costumes /  jewelry. I didn’t really want to write another post on the history of Mardi Gras, so you can go to an informative Mardi Gras site of your choice for that. I did however find the following interesting ideas that were very interesting when combined with the art, music, and spiritually of the season.

As taken from the Mardi Gras New Orleans site here :

”The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to medieval Europe, passing through Rome and Venice in the 17th and 18th centuries to the French House of the Bourbons. From here, the traditional revelry of “Boeuf Gras,” or fatted calf, followed France to her colonies.”

Fatted calf…hmm, where have we heard this. The Bible! If you are a fan. The verse coming from the story of the prodigal son in Luke as seen below.

LUKE 15:23

“And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.” Another celebration. Mardi Gras Masks

Comparison of celebration is evident, as well as color.  A trio of color. King of Carnival, Rex, was invented in 1872 to preside over the carnival’s daytime parade. I honor of the visiting Russian Grand Duke Alexis Romanoff, the businessmen introduced Romanoff’s family colors of purple, green , and gold as the official Carnival colors.

 

Purple: Justice

Gold : Power

Green : Faith

Official Tune : “If I Ever Cease to Love” (The Duke was fond of it)

 

Now my favorite parts. Costumes. I had no idea that the costumes were in influence of the Native Americans and their historical assistance from slavery during the time. See here. The masks may be dying out due to cost, but the feathers and colors that come around during this time of year are so exciting. Artists and dancers may see comparison to birds, Brazilian Carnivale, or dance styles. I express visually, so just see my photos in this post to tell where my brain may be going on this!

 

 

And birds. ParrotLet’s not forget the birds and the fashion inspired by them. Oh my goodness at the beauty in the colors and feathers. Think Rio, the movie.Parrot Costume

 

Last but not least, I always think of a certain song by famous artist Celia Cruz. La Vida Es Un Carnivale. The first time I ever heard it was at a salsa event. I was hooked from that moment on ; ballroom dance, Latin dance, culture, everything. Imagine the excitement when she came to perform in Atlanta and I got to dance to the song I loved so much.

 

 

 

May as well add my handmade jewelry here.Mardi Gras Owl Shameless plug. One of my favorite dance instructors and personalities is from Louisiana, as well as some of my family on my father’s side, and it so seems that Carnivale is somewhat in the blood. My mother being a costume designer and musician too, I find the connection to fashion, music, dance, nature, and much more so inspiring. So many choices I can’t decide what to draw, or make, or listen too! Just heaven on earth if you can see it.

Alexander McQueen

 

 

 

I hope this translates some visual energy in your direction. That’s what beauty is all about. Remember : La Vida Es Un Carnivale…So enjoy!

 

 

 

 

~ McGlamorous

 

 

 

 

The Lengths We Will Go To :: Necklace Lengths

Have you ever wondered about necklace lengths? We did some research and found these as some standard lengths of necklaces (and bracelets coming soon) for design or customization. See our model Mae Mae for reference.

Necklace Lengths

 

Necklace Lengths ::

Choker : 14-16″

Princess : 17-19″

Matinee : 20-24″

Opera : 28-34″

Rope : 37+

 

 

Bracelet Lengths ::

Child

4-5 years : 5  3/4″, 6 1/4″, 6 1/2″

6-7 years : 6″

8-9 years : 6 1/2″

10-11 years : 6 1/2″

12-13″ : 6 3/4″

 

Adult ::

Petite-Average : 7″

Average : 7 1/4″

Extended Average : 7 1/2″

Large : 7 3/4″

X-Large : 8-9″

 

Of course, all of this can be to your own specifications as well. Hope this provides a helpful reference and feel free to share.

 

~ McGlamorous

 

The Painted Turtle :: Artistically Waiting

 

This morning, as I flipped through my devotional book from “Our Daily Bread”, I turned to a later date and for curiosity stayed on it. It got my attention due to the title : Waiting with the Turtle. Five years ago or more my life was completely different. Yours probably was too, but I distinctly remember hearing my dog bark ferociously at one of these creatures outside of my house. When I went to go check, there she was. Out of nowhere it seems. And now here she is again. Still waiting, but with a clearer vision. Guess what. The turtle. More beauty. And a story began.

“The Waiting With The Turtle” article explains that every fall, when the painted turtle senses winter coming, she dives to the bottom of her pond, burning herself in the muck and mud. She pulls into her shell and goes still: her heart rate slows, almost stopping, and her body temperature drops just above freezing, she stops breathing, and she waits. For six months she is buried while her bones release calcium into her bloodstream. This can even cause her to lose her shape. But when the pond thaws, she floats up, again breathing. Her bones reform, and she will feel the warmth of sun on her shell.

Psalm 40:01-5, 14-17Oliver's Travels

I waited patiently for the Lord ; he turned to me and heard my cry.

The author, just like me , thinks of the painted turtle when reading David’s description of waiting for God. Up out the mud and mire God lifts him out, giving him a place to stand. Maybe you feel like you have been waiting forever. I do. Deliverance from anything like a change in career, a bad situation, whatever. This shows us that the painted turtle and the psalmist are her to remind us to trust in God. He hears us and will deliver us.

All of this was encouraging. Years ago when I saw her in the yard it was a different situation. Here she is again. This time with A little more growth and hope. And like the turtle girl, I am slowly growing. Perhaps you are too.

 

~ McGlamorous

Yellow Bird

Yellow Bird
Yellow Bird Necklace by McGlamorous

It’s time for a brighter post to thaw the cold. Let’s talk about “Yellow Bird”, originally a “Choucoune”, or lyrical poem that praises the beauty of a Haitian woman with the same nickname. It became a popular merengue lente (slow merengue) in Haiti,and was played prominently during celebrations at Port-Au-Prince in 1949.

It is one of Haitian poet Oswald Durand’s’ most famous works. There is a great in depth article here that tells the story of the poem and links to the original. Michel Mauleart Morton, an America-born pianist with a Haitian father and American mother, composed music for the poem in 1893. Naturally, it combines some French and Caribbean fragments to create a tune, but the lyrics for YB have no connection with the narrative of the poem. It became a minor hit on Billboard Hot 100 for the Mills Brothers in 1959, and continues to be popularly associated with Calypso and the Caribbean. It is often performed by steel-pan bands, but some versions  such as Chris Isaacks show a Hawaiian influence.

 

 

American Lyrics ::

Yellow bird, up high in banana tree.
Yellow bird, you sit all alone like me.
Did your lady friend leave the nest again?
That is very sad, makes me feel so bad.
You can fly away, in the sky away.
You’re more lucky than me.
I also had a pretty girl, she’s not with me today.
They’re all the same those pretty girls.
Take tenderness, then they fly away.
Yellow bird, yellow bird.
Did your lady friend leave the nest again?
That is very sad, makes me feel so bad.
You can fly away, in the sky away.
You’re more lucky than me.
Wish that I were a yellow bird, I’d fly away with you.
But I am not a yellow bird, so here I sit.
Nothing I can do.
Yellow bird, yellow bird.

 

 

 

Yellow bird was a dream
The dream came to be
Bright and beautiful
Caged not and free
He sang on his branches
He danced in the rain
The rays of the sunshine
Caused him no pain
His song now is lovely
Hopeful and true
He speaks of the ocean
Skies of bright blue
Sunshine sweet sunshine
Please come to me
Just like my Yellow Bird
I want to be free
~ Alison M.
P.S. My Mother plays this as a Tango for ballet barre and I wrote my own poem above. Thanks for reading and please share!
~ McGlamorous

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking Fly :: How to Make Your Poshmark Feed Look Great

 

I’ve been doing Poshmark for a little while now, and want to share my discovery of categorizing items from your closet. I hope that this post will help to communicate some ideas on making your closet look a little more appealing. Little touches make all the difference, as I am learning, and if you are in a place for this improvement, here is a suggestion.

Have you ever browsed through Poshmark and found those closets that are so organized with special labels that introduced their items? I have and always wanted to emulate the idea. One night I just had an epiphany and started using Canva to make simple photos that matched my brand. It was not anything really complex, just simple graphic design, using the app or any free apps out there. I had asked Posh support on how to label pantsuits. They really don’t have a category, and when the suits, skirts, etc., party comes, there is nowhere to put them. By making a picture I found that I could do this by labeling one way in the photo and tagging it in a different category.

 

Example :

 

Here I have made a graphic for Pantsuits but labeled it in the proper category. You can put it in the correct category to your liking as seen here.

 

Category Image Poshmark McGlamorous

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image of Poshmark

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By by using the drop-down you can get as creative as needed. It’s sort of like squeezing something into an adaptable category to get the job done.

 

Image of Poshmark

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I liked to look of the branding as well, and this leaves you some room to share more info and get your “look” out there.

After using the method for a week or so, I found an increase in organization. I could share however many pictures I wanted but still end with my graphic for that category. In other words, share a bracelet picture but end it with sharing that category graphic behind it, as Poshmark feed goes in reverse. This way you don’t have to share the entire group if you don’t want to. It is already changing the game, and I love it when creativity strikes. Epiphany!

Anyways, hope this has been of some help. I am thinking ahead of graphic – design related posts now, so please visit my website in the future for more Posh related posts!

Thanks for reading. Visit me on Poshmark as @mcglamorous.

 

~McGlamorous

You Have the Paua { No Balone }

 

The question has loomed for a few years now while crafting and selling in this medium. Vendor visitors and jewelry makers want to know :

What is the difference in Paua and Abalone?

Image of Seahorse Necklace

Well, combined research proved very interesting today. I found out that the word abalone derived from the Spanish word “Abalun” and Paua from the New Zealand Maori word “paua“.

Abalone are sea snails, the marine Gastropoda mollusk. The inner shell of an abalone is made up of nacre or mother of pearl, which comes in a variety of colors. Paua is a member of the haliotidae abalone family which there are around 149 species worldwide. They are unique to the cold blue waters of the New Zealand coastline. Haliotidae Iris is the most common and best known shell, being black interior with colors of blue and green dominating. Other species include Lao silver or Queen and Virgin Paua. They are vegetarians and graze on seaweed.

Image of Paua ShellThese little gems live in coastal, rocky areas at depths of between 1 to 15 meters, and in case you have ever wondered, the holes on the outside are for breathing. They are considered treasured meat for the Maori people and essential for a good traditional wedding feast or celebration.

Here comes my favorite part. They are traditionally used to illuminate the eyes of their carvings and artwork, and the reddish colored shells were most prized for depicting the flashing eyes of the warrior.The use of Paua shell in all all manner of jewelry and sculpture true has become a distinctive feature of New Zealand artwork, symbolizing love, life, and flow. This makes it particularly good for those who work in water.

Image of Paua

 

So essentially,they are one and the same, all part of each other. Thus is nice to know now, and maybe it will bring some treasured precision to a piece you have or may purchase in the future.

No Balone!

Feel free to share this post or send me a no spam message if you like. And as always, thanks for reading!

~ McGlamorous

Basics of Guitar :: The Right Hand (Or Left)

Guitar Hands :: Right or Left Handed Applies.

 

I have been wanting to share a few little basics of my classical guitar training here on the blog. Hopefully it will build to a place refer back to them when needed. I will make the posts short and sweet. This knowledge is taken from Christopher Parkening’s book,  The Christopher Parkening Guitar Method Book, Volume One. His technique is as close to how mine began as a student of an FSU Graduate many years ago. A recommended book with link here.

 

In playing the guitar, the fingers of the hand have a designated label for playing purpose. They come from Spanish words, and are labeled with definition as follows :

Pima

 

 

Thumb – Small letter (p) – For pulgar or thumb.

Index Finger – (i) – For indice or index finger.

Middle Finger – (m) – For media or middle finger.

Ring Finger – (a) – or anular or ring finger.

 

 

 

Please stay tuned for more guitar basics and don’t forget to share.

~ McGlamorous

Purrsonal Healing :: The Doctor is IN

 

Battling a cold or allergy? Scratchy throat and sneezes? I have some solutions.

Constant sinus infections have plagued us down here in the South for too long! You can expect mold, mildew and fungus to interfere because of pecan trees, temperature fluctuation, and the seasonal changes. What can be done to help?

Image of Aromatherapy Bead Necklace
Aromatherapy Jewelry by McGlamorous

Here is my list from experience so far. I will update as it progresses.

ESSENTIAL OILS ::

I am a big fan of many. One here combines clove bud oil, cinnamon bark oil, eucalyptus oil, organic lemon oil,  and organic rosemary oil.

Link :: NOW brand’s Nature’s Shield. Protective blend.

It is similar to Young Living’s Thieves mix. This combo was strong enough to prevent infection from plagues!

Apply a couple of drops per tablespoon of carrier oil such as coconut, and rub on sides and back of neck or chest. It does wonders to help relax and prevent the sore throat from getting worse. You can also diffuse If you have a diffuser in your home.Image of Diffuser

Another good way to detox and treat is with Epsom salts (magnesium) and eucalyptus oil. I just scoop a cup of salts into a used glass candle holder and drop two to three drops of the oil into the mix. You can even add lemon oil for immune support. I find that the oils work way better with the salt than just straight. Eucalyptus is a great cleanser and de-germs to get the job done. Having respiratory issues, this one does wonders for me and just inhaling it has defeated sinus problem on impact. Oils go a long way, so you don’t really need too much.

 

 

 

 

A great resource for beginners is this book, Aromatherapy for Everyone.

It has been a great starter book for learners no about oils and makes an excellent gift. It is by PJ Pierson and Mary Shipley.

Link :: Aromatherapy for Everyone

(This also makes me want to mention ginger oil, a great oil for getting you over the sickness hump. There are so many that help!)

Image of Aromatherapy Book

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TEAS ::

I absolutely love Throat Coat by Traditional Medicinals. It is like smooth help rescuing your sore throat. Organic herbal ingredients like licorice root, slippery elm bark, and wild cherry bark give a sweet , earthy , silky licorice taste. This can be found at your local grocery like Publix or Wal-Mart, so it a great gem in an emergency if you can not get to the health store.

Image of Throat Coat Tea

 

 

 

PURRS ::

Last but not least at all. Optional if you are allergic to kitty, but she or he could be a healer. Image of a Purrsonal HealerPurring of a cat occurs at frequencies often used in therapies to heal the human body. 25 to 150 HZ to be exact. Music vibrations, especially from stringed instruments can be a substitute, but they are not nearly as warm and fuzzy. 🙂 And of course, they cannot give as much love. There is a great article on this here at Dr. Axe’s site if you want to read more. Includes the pups too!

There are many natural resources out there, not even touched on here, that were created to be used to heal. Learning about them is fun and if you have an open mind and heart to tapping into the source, it is surely available.

Hope this has helped you in some way. Share if you like!

Thanks for reading,

 

~ McGlamorous

Do You See What I SEE :: The Dangers of LED Lights

For a while now I have been wanting to share a post on something that has personally affected my family and myself without us knowing it. It involves the dangers and long term effects of these new LED lights that we see everywhere now.Image of UVEX glasses

Being on the computer with my work has really opened my tired and sensitive eyes to something important for all of us out there that drive, work, and play. If you program or market with an iPad or tablet you may like this too. I cannot explain the science of it as well as in this article here from Dr. Mercola’s site. Link here : MERCOLA ARTICLE on LEDS  so I will leave that link here for exploration.

Here is what I do know from confirming personal experience. In the last year we have all been having trouble seeing more than usual. Even outdoors it seemed as though the rays of the light were a different shade, my left eye would worsen the longer I listed products online,  and sensitivity to light was bad. Driving at night was challenging, and car headlights (also LED) began to bother me. My Mom found this article from Mercola and I was so happy to see some of our changes working.

UVEX GlassesMy first recommendation here would be to go on Amazon and purchase you a pair of UVEX snyper glasses. They are Amber glasses that block out the blue light (see article) that is so harmful and comes from most lights we encounter on a daily basis. I would also recommend getting off of your phone and computer more often, but sometimes that is not as easy, so the glasses would be a good alternative. It also helps your vision by blocking the intensity of the light from the screen. According to a Men’s Health article this particular brand blocks more levels of light than some other brands. If you find one that does more I would love to know. This helped me a lot. Link here : UVEX Glasses

O.K. Secondly, please consider downloading a blue. Light blocking software. I tried Iris and liked it. Since we use an HDMI connection to our television from YouTube, it fed through the television and took an enormous amount of glare out of the room. I am very interested in finding a same technique for the computer, btw. It is not a bad price and the guy that created it believes in the cause. I’ll link that here : IRIS Software

Lastly, the control of all of this comes into play. I have been guilty of staying up too late watching music or studying, and as a web designer and artist that has always been the norm. Maybe this is the case for you as well, so I completely relate! We are night owls, and create and think better at those times. All is peaceful and meditative. The night is wonderful, why can I say? So taking the first baby step towards this improvement has to help.

The price of the glasses and software is nothing compared to losing vision and damaging health, and something like this creeps up on a generation before they know it. We all want to drive safer and be happier though health. Share this if you desire and maybe check back for upates.

Thanks for visiting this article, please share and follow me on all major accounts for articles like this in the future.

 

~ McGlamorous

 

 

Le Spectre de la Rose

As Spring approaches, the soft pastel shades of the season start to appear. Everything begins a slow movement towards life. Flowers push from below, beautifully developed in color. The Easter candy is youthfully wrapped in baby-like hues of pink and blue, yellow and green. Even though the seasons seem to almost birth too soon, as according to the store shelves, it is hard not to anticipate. It has always been a favorite time of year. Memories of new attire and hats for church come to mind. Not to be left behind is the dancer’s Spring Recital, and event every little or big girl in dance looks forward to.

Jewelry Made in the Spirit of the Rose

The memory of such performances brings to mind a certain ballet almost performed at one of my old schools’ Le Spectre De La Rose. I never got to see the ballet performed due to a lead dancer’s injury, but I have observed it through photographs and art, and recently found an old copy of Cyril W. Beaumont’s Complete Book of Ballets, which contains personal reviews on these old gems. With the recent anticipation of the release of the movie on Nijinsky, it seemed a great time to put all my (Easter) eggs in one basket for a nice and informative post on all of the above.

In a short synopsis, Le Spectre De La Rose is an adaptation of a poem by Gautier which I have pleasantly researched here and would like to share below. The ballet interprets the story of a young girl at a ball, to whom a rose is given. The excitement of the ball, which has also been set to Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance, has left her weary, and as she sinks into a deep sleep, the object of her dream appears through the open window in her room. He is the spirit of the rose, dancing with abandonment, similar to a rose petal in the wind. In one magical moment she is waltzing with him, her spirit lifted into heavenly realms of dance with his company. In the next moment, she is awake in her chair as if it were just her imagination. The spirit hovers for a brief instant, disappearing through the open window just as the sun rises. She stirs from her slumber enough to recall and question if it were a dream or reality. Still doubting in her empty room, she picks up the rose in remembrance, pressing it to her heart with a sad half-smile. Champagne Pansy

Finis…

According to Beaumont the intention of choreographer Michel Fokine was to use Nijinsky’s rare elevation and energetic male energy as the rose to create charming contrast to Tamara Karsavina’s presence as the sleeping girl. This ballet, in the Romantic style, is a classical pas de deux, also displaying this technique in Nijinsky’s effortlessness and graceful entrance through the window. Like a grasshopper, it says! The ethereal themed ballet achieved great success whenever performed, once so loved that it was performed twice in one evening. (So sorry for that male dancer that night!) Le Spectre de la Rose

Like most visual art I suppose, it presented itself so beautiful with these two performers that when it ended you were uncertain as to whether you had just seen what you did. Beaumont expresses that it was so linked to Nijinsky and Karsavina that all revivals failed to impress.

Thus passes the glory of the world.

The Phantom Of The Rose – Poem by Theophile Gautier

Sweet lady, let your lids unclose.–
Those lids by maiden dreams caressed;
I am the phantom of the rose
You wore last night upon your breast.
Like pearls upon my petals lay
The weeping fountain’s silver tears,
Ere in the glittering array
You bore me proudly ‘mid your peers.

O lady, ’twas for you I died–
Yet have I come and will I stay;
My rosy phantom by your side
Will linger till the break of day.
Yet fear not, lady; naught claim I–
Nor mass, nor hymn, or funeral prayer;
My soul is but a perfumed sigh,
Which pure from Paradise I bear.

My death is as my life was–sweet;
Who would not die as I have done?
A fate like mine who would not meet,
Your bosom fair to lie upon?
A poet on my sentient tomb
Engraved this legend with a kiss:
‘Here lies a rose of fairest bloom;
E’en kings are jealous of its bliss.

Theophile Gautier

 

 

Le Spectre de la Rose

Ballet in 1 Act. Book : J.L. Vaudoyer. Music : Weber. Scenery and costumes  Leon Bakst. Choreography  Michel Fokine. First produced  Theatre de Monte Carlo, 1911.

 

~ McGlamorous

 

Time with Rhedd (Butler)

 

It is pleasantly doubtful that the story of our time with Rhedd would begin any different than those love stories in the guise of kitty encounters. I never knew Angels had red hair and fur, but I am solidly convinced.

First appearance in March

They usually begin with an appearance, a discovery, or just a pleasant surprise. Out of nowhere these little spirits can manifest, like they are coming from some other time or place, right smack into your life. The introduction period is oh so brief. It is always love at first for my family, Rhedd here being no exception.

His visit was a back door rub that caught my eye late one night last winter around March. I had seen a few other cats come up for food and wildly scatter, but for some unknown but gut stirring reason I melted enough to scurry to the kitchen for emergency morsels. In all honesty I , maybe we – carried subconscious grief and love for Charlie, an indescribably gently red tabby that was previous to Rhedd, which motivated my attention and concern towards him. It felt as though Charlie was visiting in another form, or had sent a reminder.

Trying To Be Friends

The cinnamon swirl markings where visible through the glass patio door. Tail dancing, he rubbed closely for attention and I opened the door and placed the bowl out for him to munch. I went out to visit and with no fear he wailed with a passion that I nor my Mom and Grandmother had ever heard. His cry was so desperate that it was tempting to laugh, but you didn’t. He was sad and lonely, yet strong.

The next few months proved his affection and extreme protection for us. He had tried to befriend our other kitty, Lily, and it was a somewhat comical flirt that proved him a dud with the ladies, so it seemed. It was like Billy Joel meeting Christie Brinkley, but what we later discovered was that he desperately needed a friend. Our dog chased him, his own species seemed to have no loyalty, and he could not get a date across the branch during the high season – if you know what I mean.

Summer Naps

His visits were sporadic at first. Nightly romps would leave him beaten and scarred the next morning. I applied castor oil to his coat and gradually saw improvement. The more we cared for him the more we noticed an uncomfortable stance, but it did not bother him. I felt humbled by his strength and we held common issues with bad alignment. He lived with short front legs which caused his spine to curve when he sat down. Still, he walked with pride and an incredible leadership. He had no name, but surely a strong presence.

The more he stayed the day, the more friendly we became with him. After all, who could ignore those cries? Garden chores were accompanied by his presence and evening swinging with the sunsets held a place for conversations and kitty hugs. What a boy. So much love and appreciation was evident. I shed tears with him over losses and pain, and at night when I went out to see the stars he was there guarding me. Yet he still had no name. I tried to make it manifest but it did not. Somehow I felt it would come and on that night I blurted it out….”RED. No….RHEDD!” Yes, yes, yes, I thought, just like Rhett Butler the southern gentleman from the classic film Gone With The Wind! Boasting with excitement, I re-entered the house telling the family of the discovery. My Mom agreed that it fit this little protector’s personality. She labeled him the Red Warrior. Wow was that spot on. It seemed as though he grew stronger and more confident in his role as protector the longer he stayed. Cries were replaced with morning and evening walks. We silently invited him in for nights on the recliner with popcorn and movies, and he was a regular consolation in times of despair. Just a true gentleman and a true friend. I joked that had he been human, we would have been married.

Happiness Found

Sadly, he could not stay with us and left in August. We were already attached and hoped for more time, but his job was done. Breaking up is so hard to do. His loss was as such and I choose to leave only his love story behind. That once dirty and dingy coat was slick with gentlemanly sheen, and it even smelled of powder. It was as though a sweet scent floated from his happy soul. He had found love, friendship, and had given so much more than he got. He taught us strength, and protected our vulnerability at the same time.

 

Rhedd was answered prayer. I believe that is why he was so beautiful in every way.

 

Warrior Rhedd

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~ McGlamorous

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Art of the Skateboard : : Tales of a Skate Betty

 

One of my crazy past times characters as a teenage tom-girl was in the role of the girl skater, or “Skate Betty” as they called us. While going through storage this weekend I found various stickers, clothing, and skateboard hardware that inspired me to write an article on this past time activity.

Most purchases of the emotionally driven artist seems to go in the direction of graphics, color, and the “Oh I want this now!” approach. Yep, that was the case when I decided to copy the high school skater guys before braces or Homecoming queen transitions, and buy my first skateboard deck complete with truck guards, rails – the whole package. It was one of my first lay-aways and fully supported by my parents who provided protective gear like any good parents would.

Jim Theibaud Vintage Skateboard Deck For Sale

We fantasized of half-pipes, getting air, or street skating around the city, and everywhere we looked was an opportunity to just skate over it. It was a bond between me and the guys, or an attempt at getting through those awkward years. Since we were all in art class together it was another creative venture to discuss. I imagined getting air on huge half-pipes but ended up entertaining my solo self in the parking lots of Crisp County. Every rail and parking marker was to be dominated. No curve or slope of concrete unexplored. The Ollie was my undefeated foe, and along with my skating cousins, we would prevail!

Skating and swimming were a huge part of my teen years, just as the existing generation, and I now look on those times with warmth. Collecting was a hobby. I still have my favorite Powell Peralta shirt, probably the softest T ever owned at this point due to so many washings.

Through the eyes of an artist those bright graphics were super alluring. Some of my first skate pieces were painted in lime or pink. There were no rules. The guys wore color too, and that was exciting. A nearby Albany, Georgia store provided for our passions. The small space was tucked back in a shopping center moved into the Albany Mall, an even better place for teens to meet. I don’t know what those guys thought of the skater girl, but I was determined to make a mark.

Alas, time moved on and as graduation approached I sensed our parting and growing up. Braces were expensive and I wanted to keep my new straight teeth in, so as time passed the boards ended up in storage. Energy was devoted to dance and a new phase of life. I had something else to work hard at, so it was ok.

Jim Theibaud Vintage Skateboard Deck For Sale

So, onward to the most recent item out of storage. A Jim Thiebaud original deck from the late eighties early nineties. It is not a re-issue, but not the original artwork that caused a cease and desist. I have done a little research here in an article That will help explain the board’s history. The board that I have is for sale in hopes that the right collector will come along. It will be listed on Ebay and can be found here on my profile.

 

In the meantime, long live the skate Betty!

 

~ McGlamorous

 

 

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Bollywood
“Bollywood” by McGlamorous

Dance has been a journey for me, a great one at that. I have experienced life as a bunhead, an intense ballroom diva and an attempt at being middle-eastern. Being able to become any character you want is gratifying, and slightly different than being a straight forward “actor”. We are all actors in this life, but dancers get to feel physical movement with their character, something that feels refreshing and promotes an open spirit. We also have one of the greatest things ever created – music – to accompany us on the journey.

Rainbow Print Sarong
Geometric Rainbow Print Sarong

Rhythms are intoxicating to the body especially in the genres of salsa, samba, and bossa nova. Drums gracefully entrance us in styles of Latin or Middle-Eastern dance and music, and musicians can go happily crazy crossing in between these worlds.

I discovered jazz music in the driver’s seat of my car. It really is the best place to turn up the sound and absorb ever piece of note you can. It inspires creativity, creations in choreography and beautiful imagery of the moving body on the dance floor. Melody Gardot’s interpretation of Somewhere Over the Rainbow was quite moving to me. I hit the repeat button numerous times and decided test it at the restaurant where I worked as a cabaret dancer, trying my skills at improv.

The result was as follows. Forgive the video quality.

I can suggest her albums and a few other favorites  like Your Heart is as Black as Night. If you enjoy a twist on old standards try checking her out. And if you want to learn more about dance, costumes, music and design…well. ..ou are home at McGlamorous!

Thanks for reading.

 

~ McGlamorous

A Grasshopper’s Journey :: Scaling the Great Wall

 

Many Springs ago while daydreaming out the garden window I spotted this natural warrior attempting to scale our garden wall. With the intensity of a little Karate student, he approached his challenge in silent thought and preparation.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

His legs caught my attention.

Strength building in his joints. Poised and ready.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Starting the ascent. Looks promising.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A different angle. A different view of the challenge.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the humorous side. As in web development, back ends make for beautiful front ends.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And finally, he has run the good race. Mountain moved.

Grasshopper Journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspiration comes from everywhere, yet nature provides one of the best shows.

“Patience Grasshopper” still comes to mind. Hope he inspired you as much as me.

 

~ McGlamorous

Favorite Christmas Hymns & Carols :: Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem

As part of the 2018 Christmas season I am sharing some on-the-spur thoughts of some great hymns and classics played on the radio or by my Mom (and Dad) at church. Here goes the lyrics to one of my favorites at Christmas.

Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem
Shinning far through shadows dimmed
Giving the life for those who long have gone on
Guiding the wise men on their way
Unto the place where Jesus lay
Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on
Oh beautiful star the hope of light
Guiding the pilgrims through the night
Over the mountains ’till the break of dawn
Into the land of perfect day
It will give out a lovely ray
Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on
Oh beautiful star (beautiful, beautiful star) of Bethlehem
Star of Bethlehem
Shine upon us until the glory dawn
Give us a lamp to light the way
Unto the land of perfect day
Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on
Oh beautiful star the hope, the grace
For the redeem of good and blessed
Yonder in glory when the crowd is one
Jesus is now the star divine
Brighter and brighter he will shine
Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on
Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on
Songwriters: Al Phipps
Beautiful Star of Bethlehem lyrics © Carlin America Inc

Gaither Version With Ben Speer

 ~ McGlamorous

The Nutcracker :: What’s Your Flavor?

Nutcracker

Pink Ballerina Earrings
Dewdrop Deux

A million or more posts on the Nutcracker every season, and this is my first ever. I am a side-lined dancer for now, so I want to get in on this season’s premier of the movie with a jewelry twist.

Which part of the well-known ballet is your favorite? What’s your flavor. Coffee? Tea? Do you prefer the spicy flavors of the Orient or the sweet aromas of the land of sugarplums and candy canes? A fountain of creativity flows from our child-like minds when dwelling on the classic. Full of excitement and imagination, it gives a dreamer a reason to lie on the floor with Waltz of the Flowers playing in the background.

This year the Nutcrackers have been plentiful in stores, even reaching the rooted country atmosphere of south Georgia gift shops and drugs stores. McGlamorous site being no exception, I am posting our part on the marketing stage.

Purple Ballerina Bracelet
Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy

The designs are inspired by soldiers, ballerinas and pearls, and glitter and dance. They include bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, and can be purchased directly from the site, or can been seen in person at 30A Ballet in Seagrove Beach, Florida. A good friend has been kind enough to display and sell them in her wonderful new studio. They make great gifts for children in the arts, first time performers of the ballet, spring recital trinkets, and even graduation gifts for dancing teenage seniors. Teachers may also enjoy the gift of dance expressed in pearl form as well.

Blue Soldier Bracelet
Blue Nutcracker Soldier Bracelet

Pieces are a mix of  Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, and a ballerina as a focal point, all with decorative metal clasps. Other pieces inspired by dance are also available on the site.

Take a peek this special season, and enjoy.

Thanks!

 

~ McGlamorous

 

For the Birds

I love birds. We love birds. Let me explain.

My Grandmother loves birds. Ever since I was a little one we were careful and curious about examining her collections when we visited her house for sleep-overs. “No jumping!” I can hear it now as my two boy cousins and I ran around the sleeping bags on a Friday night. We were careful no to wake Grandma by shaking the den floor or the figurines representing her collection.

Many were gifts and I suppose milestone markers for special occasions, but they always perched in the case and held a special memory, especially now. I never knew I liked them so much until now, being around the artifacts in the house. Binoculars are always in reach for new species spotted on the feeder or bath, that is if the squirrels don’t leave a mess after their wild garden parties. When a visitor is spotted we can always run to the closet and find some Audubon reference for advice.

Perhaps the best thing about them is their song. Their appearance can brighten the dullest of days and their voices bring more sunshine into the yard. Caged or free, they adapt and set a good example of faith and spirit.

Many a poem or song has been given to them or inspired by them, art and jewelry being no exception. This post is not “for the birds”, but instead “FOR THE BIRDS”.

 

Art, Literature, Music and Poetry Inspired by Birds

Psalm 55:6,7

And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest…

Caged Bird

A free bird leaps
on the back of the wind
and floats downstream
till the current ends
and dips his wing
in the orange sun rays
and dares to claim the sky.
But a bird that stalks
down his narrow cage
can seldom see through
his bars of rage
his wings are clipped and
his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for the caged bird
sings of freedom.
The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn bright lawn
and he names the sky his own
But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams
his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for the caged bird
sings of freedom.
Maya Angelou, “Caged Bird” from Shaker, Why Don’t You Sing? Copyright © 1983 by Maya Angelou. Used by permission of Random House, an imprint and division of Penguin Random House LLC. All rights reserved.
Source: The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou (Random House Inc., 1994)
Bird on the Wire

Leonard Cohen

Like a bird on the wire
Like a drunk in a midnight choir
I have tried in my way to be free
Like a worm on a hook
Like a knight from some old-fashioned book
I have saved all my ribbons for thee
If I, if I have been unkind
I hope that you can just let it go by
If I, if I have been untrue
I hope you know it was never to you
For like a baby, stillborn
Like a beast with his horn
I have torn everyone who reached out for me
But I swear by this song
And by all that I have done wrong
I will make it all up to thee
I saw a beggar leaning on his wooden crutch
He said to me, “you must not ask for so much”
And a pretty woman leaning in her darkened door
She cried to me, “hey, why not ask for more?”
Oh, like a bird on the wire
Like a drunk in a midnight choir
I have tried in my way to be free
Songwriters: Leonard Cohen
Bird on the Wire lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Flee as a Bird

Flee as a bird to your mountain
Thou who art weary with sin
Go to the clear flowing fountain
Where you may wash and be clean
Fly, for the avenger is near thee
Call and the Savior will hear thee
He on his bosom will bear thee
Thou who art weary of sin, oh
Thou who art weary of sin
He will protect thee forever
Wipe every falling tear
He will forsake thee, oh, never
Sheltered so tenderly there
Haste now, the hours are flying
Spend not the moments in sighing
Cease from your sorrow and crying
The Savior will wipe every tear, oh
Haste now, the hours are flying
Spend not the moments in sighing
Cease from your sorrow and crying
The Savior will wipe every tear, oh
The Savior will wipe every tear
~ McGlamorous

Discount Dance Supply :: Shop Here

You can now use our teacher code to apply a one time 10% discount on supplies like shoes, leotards, tights, and other supplies. I hope this will help you out a bit for Nutcracker seasons and for new students who need Ballroom shoes or Dance Sneakers. Please see the links below, either click on the picture or the title, and let it to take you to a form where you can fill out and search for McGlamorous using the Discount Dance Supply Teacher Code TP46155 .

Discount Dance Supply

 

DDS

 

Use McGlamorous to get 10% off your order! Nutcracker is around the corner. Stock it up. Just click the link on www. mcglamorous.com. It’s on the bottom right of the site and links straight to your dancing supply destination.

 

Maleficent :: Most Glamorous Villain

Mirror Mirror on the Wall,

Who’s the best villain of them all? I ask you…who would you choose? On a recent frolic through the YouTube feed, my Mom and perused through video clips of top rated Disney dames that caused the most havoc and yes, we still returned to one. Malificent

She is part of a story that has a bit of a background for us. Being one my Mom’s favorite movies, Sleeping Beauty has always represented many of our favorite things. A beautiful waltz, fairies, and dreams, all of which appeal to a former ballet dancer and a costumer and musician. I do believe that it was one of the first animated movies that she and my Father saw together. He was not too much into these things as we are, but also being a musician, I am sure that his was awakened to Tchaikovsky’s sound. Maybe in subconscious, at least.

But back to the great dame of this movie. Her name is Maleficent. We agreed with the fact that that she is a bit more wise and calculated. Not at all a dumb criminal or buffoonish lady. She even has that old movie glam that does not seem prevalent in today’s characters. But forgive me if I am getting older and joining the ranks of “The Good Old Days”.

Research showed the original actress that voiced the part as Eleanor Audley, ironically having the same name as my Grandmother! She also voiced Cinderella’s stepmother, but quite a different aura to that part as compared to the glamorous but evil dragon lady in Sleeping Beauty.

Under all the evil you mat still see a bit of fashion. She wears the right makeup, holds a cool staff, and has her own bird. Maybe a bit of the dark side of glamour, but fashionistas can adapt the look to lean towards the light.

{ So here you go Malificent. May this post be a fun Halloween salute to you. }

 

In honor of my Mom’s favorite villain-ess I have created a necklace with said name below.

Maleficent

Friends of Fall :: { And Some Roger Williams }

 

Each fall calls for a newer and brighter color scheme for us, this one being no exception. We don’t do drab. (Life is hard enough). It is all about cuteness and color! Hopefully this will spread as far as the Autumn Leaves in this post of friendly fall critters (and a famous songs). Halloween is just around the corner as well, and maybe it will inspire a gift for that favorite teacher or maple latte loving friend.

What makes you love fall the most? I used to not be a fan but it is growing on me a bit. I think of new coffee drinks, cozy long sleeved shirts, finger-less gloves, and fire pits. I love the glow of lanterns or warm lights in the windows and pumpkins mysteriously and quietly posing on the porch.

All of these things and more have become visions coming to life in jewelry form. Today I would like to share a few of my favorites in celebration of a cute and happy side of  F A L L.

For further information or purchase please click on pic.

NUMBER ONE ::
Red Fox Blog
The Little Red Fox
NUMBER TWO ::
A Festive Fall
A Festive Fall
NUMBER THREE ::

 

NUMBER FOUR ::
Pumpkin Spice
Pumpkin Spice
NUMBER FIVE ::

 

White Owlets
White Owlets

 

NUMBER SIX ::
The Great Pumpkin
The Great Pumpkin

 

NUMBER SEVEN ::
Fox of Fun
Fox of Fun

Hope you have enjoyed this preview to fall through the eyes of McGlamorous. Please share if you feel inclined.

~McGlamorous

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Tap Dance :: Crazy Socks Tap™ :: Shuffle with Bandy Twist

Shuffle with Bandy Twist

 

Here is the continuation of the Bandy Twist combo. I added a few shuffles and ball change for rhythm and fun.

 

With Counts: Part C. (With Shuffle)

1-Step R

and 2-Shuffle L fwd

and 3-Ball change L-R

and- Pivot on R for 1/2 turn R

4- Step L

 

Song: Rhumboogie by the Andrews Sisters

http://www.mcglamorous.com

Hope you enjoy playing along, and thanks for tapping with me!

You can subscribe to these and more at TheAMcGlamorous channel.

~McGlamorous

It’s Just { Beautiful } Hot Air

It’s Just { Beautiful } Hot Air

 

This year I was grateful to finally experience the joy of the annual Hot Air Balloon Event, a vein of our town’s Watermelon Festival. This was a big deal to me as I have never seen them up close and personal. It reminded me of a huge birthday party as I watched them slowly hover over the city’s landscape. They seemed to float through the air like colorful jellyfish in a sea of air, bobbing up and down for a rest now and then. Like sleeping giants, they rose with the sounds of a fire breathing dragon as their power. Flashback Wizard of Oz…Where were the going? When would the return ? It didn’t matter at the moment as long as you stayed lost in the magic.

Imagine my surprise as I left the park and headed back to a my Aunt and Uncle’s house and saw them descending for a photo op in the field right in front of the house. Double jackpot blessing!

 

Hot Air
Stairway to Heaven Balloon

The sun was setting and lighting was magical enough to catch some shots. We were also trying to remember songs like Up Up and Away in my Beautiful Balloon as we took photo video ops.

 

All in all, it’s just beautiful hot air…..Here are a few for the sharing ::

 

Hot Air
My Personal Favorite :: The Balloon and the Moon

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air

 

Hot Air
Sleeping Giant

 

~ McGlamorous

 

 

Tales from the Garden :: A New Love Featuring Iris

Tales from the Garden :: A New Love Featuring Iris

 

A newly found love. Gardening! Here are some pics from our garden this Spring. I’ll start with Irises and pleasant thoughts of a ballet instructor with such a name. I don’t have much to say so I’ll let them speak for themselves.

 

 

~McGlamorous

 

How to Tap Dance :: Crazy Socks Tap ™ :: The Abe Kabbible

 

The Abe Kabbible

 

Part of being healthy is in the exercise, and what a great way to achieve this through dance. That is why I have begun to re-post some older ideas here using basic tap moves for beginners through advanced. The idea of this is to get those people inspired to learn to tap, or for those who always wanted to learn how to dance. The rhythm in this art form is hard to resist and loads of fun for the heart and soul. No impressive moves here, just the basics based on a great tap dictionary book that I have had for years, as well as a funky pair of socks (just for fun).

Here is an interesting article on the author Glenn Shipley, and a link to the book The Complete Tap Dictionary.

I have not included everything in the book, mainly exercises. There is a load of interesting information in it about the art form, including definitions from his extensive background in so many styles of dance. If you are partial to the old days as we are then you will really enjoy the read.

First exercise is below with a description. I hope to keep them coming.

Please enjoy.

 

 

Published on May 1, 2014 (Theatrical Term) – A commonly used movement in tap and jazz dancing.

With counts:

Part A

1-Step L (to L side)

2-Step R (XF of L)

3-Step L (to L side)

4-Heel tap R (to R side)

Reverse

Part B :

With the And Count Added

And-Step L (to L side)

1-Step R (XF of L) And-Step L (to L side)

2-Heel tap R fwd (to R side)

Reverse

Part C :

With the Leap

And-Leap fwd to L ft (to L side)

1-Step R (XF of L) And-Leap fwd to L ft (to L side)

2-Heel tap R fwd (to R side)

Reverse

 

Song : Beat Me Daddy Eight to the Bar by the Andrews Sisters

http://www.mcglamorous.com

Hope you enjoy playing along, and thanks for tapping with me!

You can subscribe to these and more at TheAMcGlamorous channel.

~McGlamorous

Pastel Art

 

 

After several requests from family to list examples of my pastel art, here they are. As you can see I enjoy drawing birds. As explained in a earlier post, the colors and textures they provide are a perfect playground for the senses. Medium used here is pastel. Brands that I enjoy are Sennelier, Rembrandt, Canson, NuPastel, among others.

Saffron Toucanet

Male Indigo Bunting

 

Indian Ringneck

 

Rainbowbird

Cardinal

I Love Color

I Love Color

 

A cool photo that requires a little rhyme…

 

I Love Color

 

I love color.

And wonder how it can be,

That a never ending blue sky

Can bring such joy to me.

 

A flame above a candlestick,

That flickers blue and red.

Colors in my garden.

Colors in my head.

 

A name for every color,

Time held, tried, and true.

A gift to every one of us,

Especially for you.

 

~Alison McGlamry

 

How to Make a Magic Fairy Dust Bottle Necklace

 

Holidays make us all sparkle, even into the New Year, and this year was no exception but instead a reminder of past sparkles in my history. Being a performing artist for so many years had quite its fair share of the wonderful invention we call G l i t t e r. Glitter on the eyes, chest, hair, body, and eyelashes was just a regular routine for a dancer and her friends. And as the B52’s sing….on the mattress and the highway too!

I was taken back to the old days of high school and ballet classes circa 1990’s lately, and remembered a wonderful and fun gift exchanged during performances. The Fairy dust package, or bottle. To some it was simply enchanting. Mysterious and fun. Maybe just a mess to parents, but we ballerinas and dreamers loved it.

I decided to bring the enchantment back to life this Christmas in the form of a gift for my five year old cousin. While making it again this inspired me to do a tutorial which I will complete below. Hope you love it a much as we do.

Long live the glitter!

Here is what we will be making:

 

Fairy Dust Bottle Necklace

 

Materials used:

 

Fairy Dust Bottle Supplies

Fairy Dust Bottle Supplies

 

  • One glass bottle pendant from your local Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, or online bead shop. Some have cork tops like this one shown, others may be screw on or pop top.
  • Some sort of stringing material. I used ribbon but substitutes may include leather, silk, rayon, waxed linen, strung beads or even chain.
  • Finely dusted glitter. The finer the better since it is a magic dust, but once again anything may do.
  • Charm, crystal, or other embellishment. I’ve used a Swarovski glass crystal as a choice in this tutorial.
  • Jump Rings, Spring Rings, Wire.
  • Jewelry tools. Scissors.
  • Small piece of folded paper for transferring glitter.
  • Fray Check.

 

Fairy Dust Bottle Supplies

 

Step One:

You are not restricted to any order here, so have fun. I started with the bottle because I looked forward to filling it with glitter.

Take the folded paper piece and pour a liberal amount of dust / glitter into the crease and into the bottle. Make it as full as you want, or whatever is pleasing to the eye. You have the option of either leaving the bottle open if it is a cork or removable top, or gluing the top securely.

 

Pour

 

Step Two:

Next we want to embellish the bottle with either a jump ring, spring ring, or simply wire some sort of looped piece that we can run the ribbon, cord, or leather through. If you use a flat or thin ribbon, be warned that it will slip through the ring. In one completed versions I chose a larger jump ring. This also gives the advantage of adding other components or charms later. In another I tried a spring ring, which works like a keychain. You may also want to experiment with wire for a more organic look.

 

Opening

 

Open the jumpring with jewelry pliers, either round nose or flat nose. There are many tutorials on techniques, but most importantly, you do not want to separate the ring by pulling the ends away from each other. This will ruin the natural shape of the ring. Instead you want to pull each end away from the other. For the spring ring I use something to create enough opening that will allow the ribbon or cord to pass through, like loading a keychain.

 

To find lessons on technique and beginner tutorials and supplies, I am supplying a link to Fusion Beads. Love their service and site.

 

Opening

 

Step Three:

Now it ‘s time for the Swarovski heart to be added. Here I have used a sterling silver wire here, 22 gauge. Openings in glass charms can break easily with force, so I carefully run the wire through and create a twist of of two or three swirls, clipping the tail end off with my wire cutters. This dabs into wire twisting technique a little bit. You could double the wire here, even cage the heart with a wire wrap.

 

Wire Twist One

 

Wire Twist Two

 

I want to attach this wire to the jump ring, so I run it through and secure another twist.

 

Step Four:

Lastly, we string the ribbon through the loop and secure the ends with a knot. I then add some fray check to the tips to prevent stray hairs. You could go with a clasp or anything on the ends. This was an easy solution for the wearer, who puts everything over her head.

 

Strung

 

Voila! You’re done. Now enjoy your little morsel of magic, and don’t hesitate to put your own twist on this. Ideas are endless when you think of all the colors of glitter and ribbon, leather, clasps, and more. Please check back to my site for added information and links to additional resources. And just in case you would like to purchase a pre-made creation, please link to the store and original product here.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

~McGlamorous

 

Rock On

 

Those from the eighties generation may remember the song. It kept playing in my head while making these fun little necklaces for the last two years so I just made a combo post out of the two. A big seller at craft shows, especially amongst the teen category, they are a simple mix of imperial jasper, Swarovski crystals, and bronze chain. Best of all though, they were inspired by music, one of the strongest gifts a person can be inspired by.Boho Orange Feathered

Music is so precious, so uplifting, calming, and emotion moving. My Dad used to say how the soul was completely moved by it, and it certainly has been a great part of my family’s life. We listen to music while beading, drawing, thinking, and relaxing. It is there like a rock, soothing the soul.Plum Rocks

These little guys are part of the experience with there bright shades and simplicity. They are also done with charms and leather, and probably will morph into different places as long as I can keep making them.

I am working on posting the many that are available for purchasing, plus some in the archives collection. They’ve earned their own place here.

And just to jog your memory….

Hey, kid, rock and roll
Rock on, ooh my soul
Hey, kids, you boogey, too, did ya?
Hey shout, summertime blues
Jump up and down in my blue suede shoes
Hey, did you rock and roll, rock on
And where do we go from here?
Which is a way that’s clear
Still looking for that blue jean, baby queen
Prettiest girl I ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
(James Dean)
And where do we go from here?
Which is a way that’s clear
Still looking for that blue jean, baby queen
Prettiest girl I ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
(Jimmy Dean)
Rock on
Rock on
Rock on…

~Alison 

 

 

Birds of Paradise

 

RainbowbirdIf you asked most artists what inspires them to draw, or create anything, what would you figure to be the most popular subjects? After shyly joining a pastel artist Facebook group last week, I have been pleasantly surprised at the knowledge gained in such a short period of time. One post addressed the question of what three subjects you like to paint the most. There were several replies, animals being very popular, probably to no one’s surprise. Flowers were the list as well as portraits, and of course one of my favorites……birds.

Indian Plum Headed Parakeet

It seems as though the beauty of the feathers and color variations create a great challenge for the artist. A very large artist create them in the first place. I guess we just like to see if we can come close to interpreting that! Overall, it’s fun.

Male Indigo BuntingWhat do you like to draw and why? I am posting a few of my favorite pieces that have been exciting challenges to work on, with a little caption info about each bird. Leave your comments below if you like. Love to hear from you!

~Alison

 

 

 

Welcoming the Fall Giveaway

Welcoming the Fall Giveaway

Posted on by McGlamorous

Welcome to the giveaway!

In celebration of the beauty of fall weather, we are giving away this colorful necklace with a similar theme. It is  handmade by McGlamorous, with natural stones and an intricate ceramic focal. Sure to go well with your wardrobe, and worn casual or evening with just a touch of Swarovski Crystal. Welcoming the Fall

Natural stones in shades of the beautiful Fall season combine with a ceramic pendant to create a simple and casual piece that can be enjoyed all season. A little splash of Swarovski adds sparkle. 17″ 1/2 in length.

TO ENTER ::

It’s simple, just visit me on Instagram and like to win. If you would love to share with a friend and subscribe to our newsletter, that would be great too. But not a requirement.

Winners will be chosen on or by October 31st, 2020.

 

Be sure to hit that share button below, and thanks for entering! Good luck!

 

~ McGlamorous

 

“Per Instagram rules, this promotion is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. By entering, entrants confirm that they are 13+ years of age, release Instagram of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s terms of use.”

 

Hashtags :: #mcglamorousgiveaway, #giveaway, #mcglamorouscontest, #welcomingthefallgiveaway

Social Streamline :: Media Tools To Help Make You a Star

Social Streamline :: Media Tools To Help Make You a Star

Posted on by McGlamorous

There are no rules. Everything is all over the place! This is a funny but true thought describing the current state of social media, but you can never go wrong with a pretty visual. A few friends have asked me for some of the tools I use with Poshmark, or Instagram. I came across a great article that I wanted to summarize. Some of these I have not tried, but most I have. I am learning with you so here it goes :

Canva was first on the list and I can agree that I enjoy it for design. It is pretty easy and the fonts are great. Your can create ads, posts for different platforms and sizes, covers, or cards. It is mostly free, which is a bonus too.

On a side note, I would like to add Typorama to the mix. I love this one, too. It has great designs pre-made and I love the graphics and pictures in this app.

 

Combin for Instagram growth was listed, although I have not experimented with this one or delved enough into marketing time for Instagram yet to approve or disapprove. The author stated that they have tested and researched several tools for the app and this one stands out in their mind. We may like to give it a try. It is reported as simple to use because it allows you to manage Instagram from your PC, something I like already.

Instagram’s algorithm has probably changed as I write this, so being active on the account is more important than before. According to this article, posting a lot of content wont do it all anymore, instead interacting with followers and new accounts is the key. If Instagram is your thing, this may be your best bet for a platform.

 

Buffer for scheduling. I’ve gone crazy deciding on these kinds of apps. There are a lot out there.  They say that scheduling your content is really the key to doing social media on a bigger scale. Guess that is why I am a bit behind It would be great to produce bulk content and not have to worry. This ideally would be even a week’s worth if content scheduled to go out at one time. Wow. If you work mainly on Instagram, Later and Hopper are options, but in the meantime Buffer is a favorite.

 

Grammarly for avoiding embarrassing copy mistakes. See, I even needed it for that word! Seriously though, this Is one of my favorites because I am reviewing language basics and learning at the same time with this program. It is quite helpful and needs no introduction, Like me, if you write fast and tend to misspell words, this is your friend. The free version is flexible, but if you are serious about writing copy, the paid version may be worth the money.

 

Thanks for reading the article. I hope it has helped in some way. I am an artist who works enough in IT to be a little dangerous. 🙂 Please share with your friends and feel free To contact me for related questions.

 

~ McGlamorous

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: The Shim Sham Variation

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: The Shim Sham Variation

Posted on by McGlamorous

 

Definition :

Shim-Sham :: An early tap movement that has endured many years ands is still used extensively.

Measure / Count / Movement

Shim— Sham Variation ::

Measure / Count / Movement

8 – Heel tap R fwd
And 1 – Brush step R back
2 – Heel tap L fwd
And 3 – Brush step L bk
4 – Heel tap R fwd
And 5 – Brush step R back
And – Step L
6 – Heel tap R fwd
And 7 – Brush step R back

 

Here is the shuffle step version if you wan to see.

 

Thanks for dancing with me! Please subscribe to my newsletter in the sidebar , follow me and share.

 

~ McGlamorous

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: The Shim Sham

Crazy Socks Tap ™️ :: How to Tap Dance :: The Shim Sham

Posted on by McGlamorous

 

Definition ::

Shim Sham :: An early tap movement that has endured many years and is still used extensively.

Measure / Count /  Movement

8 and – Shuffle R – Step R

2 and – Shuffle L

3 – Step L

4 and – Shuffle R

5 and – Ball change R-L

6 and – Shuffle R

7 – Step R

 

Thanks for dancing with me! Please subscribe to my YouTube channel at TheAMcGlamorous. Stay tuned for more updates and tap steps soon. Donate to it site using the Pay Pal link…if you wish…Oh, and please share.

 

~ McGlamorous