"Oh, mommy, here's another one!"

When we hop in the car, stripe bag in tow, traveling down to the Jersey shore, our destination is usually Point Pleasant to enjoy their beach and boardwalk. I guess it is just a habit, the familiarity and comfort of a place we are accustomed to. Long lazy walks along the shore line, oblivious of time is a gift of the lasting summer days. At sunset, we love to climb the rocks as the waves crash up and tease us on the other side. Right before we embark on our climb, we spot the entire area of shells to explore on our way back to base camp...

Inspired to create, we decided that one of our summer projects would be to use some of these beauties in stepping stones. So easy... I mixed some concrete, poured it into aluminum block shaped molds we purchased at the dollar store and  pressed the shells in different designs onto the surface, letting them dry for a couple of days. Once completely solid, I placed them as a small walkway in our front garden.

Many of the more delicate shaped shells have become focal elements in my jewelry too, showcased in a little something  Brenna befittingly called Point Pleasant.

This necklace combines hand painted glass with brushed gold charms on a fine braided leather cord. Drilling tiny holes into these small shells requires a steady hand and a prayer since countless pieces have cracked in the process! But I am learning to be patient and careful each time...

From my Intentions, this selection is simply called Believe. Pairing a silver word charm with the natural shell, the combined pendant is strung on a simple silver cobra chain along with a filigree silver bead.

Summer fun for us washes up a  creative recipe of recycling...

Ya know, it's just a shore thing... xoxo-Sonya