A stay-cation in Mystic, CT

Welcome to my reveal for the 2nd Annual Challenge of Travel blog hop! Erin has challenged us to stay-cation, where we experience the local attractions close to home.

Today I'll be taking you on a trip to the famous Mystic, CT. This shoreline town is not only full of beautiful scenery but it's also rich in history, making it a popular tourist destination in the summer months. You may have already heard of my small town because of a popular movie called Mystic Pizza, staring Julia Roberts. The Mystic Pizza restaurant is right in the heart of downtown, where you can grab a slice and do some great shopping!

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This store is owned by a woman who shares my name! It's such a cool boutique.

Running through downtown Mystic is a river, and if you want to cross by car or foot, at 40 minutes past the hour, you will have to stop and wait for the drawbridge to rise. Built in 1920, this bascule style swing bridge is one of the oldest of its type still in operation and is quite a sight to see!

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I look forward to the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival every year. It's the largest around and runs all weekend long! This year the weather was just beautiful and the amazingly talented artists were plentiful. We also enjoyed some tasty New England summer foods.

Clam Fritters!

There are so many other great attractions in Mystic too. At the Seaport, you can learn about the old sailing ships and experience what maritime life was like!

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If you're a regular reader, you may remember that my high school reunion was held at the Mystic Aquarium. Who doesn't love sea lions and penguins? :)

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Now, let's get to the jewelry! I created a necklace for this challenge that was inspired by the tall sailing ships. I had a vintage brass stamping that I hung from brass chain. I then created a sort of "ocean" with multiple strands of seed beads in shades of blue and turquoise.

I hope I have peaked your interest about my area of the world, and just maybe I'll see ya around!

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New designs

It seems my muse is back from vacation! I'm starting to create again and it feels so good!

Tropical Beach Long Necklace
Freshwater pearls, Shell beads, Teal and Green glass beads.

Antique Key Necklace
Red Jasper, Vintage glass pearls and metal caps, Brown and Tan glass crystals, Antique key.

The only constant is change

At the beginning of August, I was told that I would be laid off from my full time administrative assistant job. While the sensible part of me is scared, (how will I pay the bills?), the artist in me is flying high with the idea that I get to spend all day making jewelry! This may just be the push I need to take my jewelry business to the next level and I'm really looking forward to the challenge!

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Staying Positive,

Party at the Aquarium

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This past weekend I attended my 10 Year High School Reunion at the famous Mystic Aquarium. What a beautiful setting for a party! After arriving, we mingled and enjoyed cocktail hour by the Beluga Whale tanks.

Then later, we enjoyed dinner surrounded by the pretty glow of the fish tanks. How fun to catch up with old friends while viewing these wonderful creatures.

 

They even had a s'mores bar for dessert!

Of course, I designed and created my jewelry special for the night. I used matching pink pearls and emerald green czech glass, as well as a stunning repurposed, sterling silver starfish connector!

I had such a great time, I can't wait for our 20th reunion!