At a crossroads

Last week was some what of a challenge. The lovely Vanda is still on the engine transplant list, do we buy a recon engine? Do we buy another van  and transplant? Do I give up the dream go to work in Tesco and make my life easier?  Life is never simple and all options were considered believe me. The cost of a recon engine  is enough to turn a soul grey, well grayer if that's even a word. Then someone said "Have faith it will all look very different  next week."
 such wise words. 

Faith is something which is very personal and to be honest not something which crosses my mind often, I myself am of the humanist persuasion. However when  I was asked to make the first Tarrag Naegel Cross for a very lovely lady owner's big birthday, the penny dropped. Nails and crosses what a great connection, part of me always admires those with a faith  regardless of which denomination they choose to follow.

The very first cross was in 9 ct yellow gold and Peridot, a stunning piece and I love that it is worn often. Made for a significant birthday, that first purchase has turned that particular lady  into a customer  but also a friend. Later an old school friend asked if I could make something similar in Silver with Black Jet.  Similar to the one now in our range but this one is Black Onyx. He may have regretted showing his lovely wife. Very quickly we had to make another one for his good lady. At which point it became part of our classic range.

At last years Festival of Eventing I was joined on he stand by my sister which was great fun and gave us a chance to catch up. Living at either end of the country makes it tricky to keep in touch.  Imagine our surprise when our brother turned up, with his wife and daughter! They has come to see us, but also the stand. My sister in Law has great faith and asked if I could make her a cross to celebrate their anniversary. The challenge was to get a sapphire to match her robes. I like a good challenge, but realised a sapphire was just not going to work. The perfect colour match was a Tanzanite. I knew the cross was of great importance to them both, however when the cross was ready I was not aware that the timing was perfect. Making the job all the more special for all  their family. I was not aware my sister in laws much loved  aunt had passed away. Asked to lead the service a great honor but also a huge of a responsibility.  I was very touched that, my sister in law felt the cross was a real token of love
for her on that  very emotional day. 

Well off to pack for Belton Horse Trails, hopefully Vanda will be back on the road soon