reneehathaway.com

Category: Uncategorized

  • Dancing In the Rain

     
    Well I saw this picture today and I related to it immediately and I thought YES….that explains the last two years!  And I’m sure many of you can relate.  It’s so easy to get caught up in the storm…but Oh! it’s so much more pleasant to be optimistic and just DANCE!  I grew up on the Peninsula in the Bay Area (California)  and it wasn’t uncommon for me to walk to school early in the morning with the fog all around me…or in a soft rain….who needs an umbrella!?  The best feeling is to have your rain boots and raincoat on and dance all the way…skipping through the puddles without a care in the world.    So why do we have to outgrow that feeling?   Living life with that same mentality as an adult, even though not easy….it’s just so much more satisfying.
     
    Many foggy mornings spent here at Pismo Beach
     
    Okay….so here I am again…trying to get back into inspiration…writing and creating.  If you have followed my story…you know the journey of the last couple years.  Thank you for traveling along with me and for all of your support.  I know many of you have a similar story….and there is somehow comfort in just knowing that.  But now after a good year and a half “off”   its TIME!  I have spent practically everyday at the ocean and have so many ideas spinning circles in my head!   The sea has a way of doing that to me…it is one of the most inspiring places to be.  Amazing how it can clear your head and fill it at the same time! 
     
    Having the ocean all around you is like a big hug!
     
    So I’m trying to do a little Etsy shop  “make over” to a more Seaside Vintage look…..granted it’s taking me a bit longer than I anticipated ….but I will get it there soon.  Also I have a list of stories that I would like to write …topics such as the Monarch butterflies journey to Pismo Beach, the whales stopping by Avila Beach, story of the doves…  and more…so stay tuned 🙂  In the meantime here are a few pictures of creative “moments”  as of late….enjoy and stop by SomethingSeaBlue and have a look!
     
    seaside charms and birds nests

    bits of blue
    this one drove me crazy! its asymmetrical…I am more of a symmetrical creator but I am trying to venture out a bit 🙂  I actually love the way it turned out….

    bits of the sea, mixed with a little vintage 
     
     
    Have a wonderful day and always make time for a walk on the beach!  (or the nearest large  body of water you can find)
     
    and KEEP SMILING!
     
    Renee 🙂

  • SALE AT SOMETHINGSEABLUE!!

    SomethingSeaBlue is getting a new look!   I know it has been a long while since I have posted.  For those that have followed my blog over the last few years, you were aware of  the challenges that I was facing with my mom’s illness.  Many have wondered the outcome of her 2-3 year battle with Lymphoma.  Sadly she lost the battle last year in July. She was my number one follower and the person I shared my inspirations with…  So needless to say, life changed and my blog and Etsy store SomethingSeaBlue grew quiet.  After many long walks on the beach and just time itself…I am full of new inspirations and ideas and would love to share them with you all again….So stay tuned!!!!  

    SomethingSeaBlue is having a 1/2 off sale on selected items.  So click to the right on the Etsy store link and enjoy!

    And as always…..enjoy each day…and always take time to take a stroll along the coast….or if inland???  the nearest peaceful large body of water 🙂

    Be talking to ya soon!

    Renee
    SomethingSeaBlue

  • Grateful Threads, A Unique Boutique in Grover Beach, California

    Grateful Threads 957 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach, CA
    The coolest little boutique in town!  This definitely is a reason to visit Grover Beach.  Owner Sarah Crosby opened doors in February this year (2011).  Convenient little stop and shop boutique right next to the post office. 

    The store is loaded with new and vintage clothing, handbags, and shoes at great affordable prices.  In addition there is lots of jewelry from local artists such as Gems and Baubles handcrafted jewelry, Lean Dog Pottery, SomethingSeaBlue, and  adorable hand carved abalone necklaces by Donna are just to name a few.

    Are you a hat lover?  Perfect for winter are the Hand Knit Slouches too! We also found cute little handmade felt flowers by Princess Boutique. 

    Sweet carved abalone sunglass necklace!!
    And there’s more than just clothes and accessories, Sarah also welcomes art and greeting cards from local artists such as Palm Art by Bernadette, Water Colors by Nancy Carol and Windchimes/Suncatchers by Franci Dunwell.  And again this is just to name a few, there is so much more!  So you just have to come and check it out for yourself. 🙂

    Wow a section for Men too!!!
    In addition to being home to this dog friendly, kid friendly boutique, Sarah occasionally holds special customer appreciation days with some yummies served.!!!  As well as being a very active supporter and donator to San Luis Obispo Women’s Shelter.

    Sarah’s sewing area
    One of the features I loved about this shop, being a seamstress myself was the “mom and pop” feel of the little sewing area at the front of the store.  Since clothing rarely ever fits just perfect off the rack, Sarah will do light alterations to get you the proper fit.

    Oh and I think I forgot to mention that Consignments are welcome!  So if you have any questions just give Sarah a call at 805-709-6861.

    So if you are looking for that perfect unique one of a kind outfit or accessory, drop off your mail and come take a peak into this cute little boutique and with the help of fashion conscious Sarah you will walk out looking like a million dollars without breaking your pocket book!

    SomethingSeaBlue Jewelry Display
    Oh and one last little tidbit….a line of my jewelry, SomethingSeaBlue,  is now being carried at Grateful Threads.  Some nautical themed necklaces featuring sea glass, or shell sailboat pendants, wire crochet bracelets and bangles all made with shells, sea glass and more beach themed jewelry.

    Come visit Grateful Threads!
    So next time your on your way to Pismo Beach, stop by Grateful Threads and say Hi to Sarah for me will ya ?  🙂 Because as one customer put it, “this store totally rocks!”
    Grateful Threads
    957 W. Grand Ave.
    Grover Beach, CA  93433
    805-709-6861
    gratefulthreadsshop@gmail.com
    Follow on FaceBook
    Have a great day!!
    Renee of SomethingSeaBlue

  • Mancessories…Cuff Links Anyone? The Perfect Man Gift

    Cuff Links inspired by a day at the beach
    Mancessories?? What’s that?  In other words Men’s Accessories!  The market is flooded with plenty of Women’s Accessories from shoes, scarves, jewelry and the list goes on and on!  But what about for the fashion conscious man in your life?

    Purple Cowrie Shell Cufflinks
    Well of course if you have been a faithful reader to my blog you already know how very obsessed I am with beachcombing 🙂  I have sooo many shells and beautiful beach stones from California and Kauai.  And I’ve always loved men’s accessories…so why not combine the two!
    Above are two rich purple colored cowrie shells I found on the beaches of Kauai. 

    Yellow and Purple Spiral Cone Shell Cufflinks
    These little yellow and purple spiral cone shells were also found in Kauai as well…I can just see them paired with a deep blue men’s dressshirt can’t you??

    Sage Green Beach Jade Stone Cufflinks
    These two jade beach stones were found at Moonstone Beach in Cambria, CA.  A subtle touch of sage green would compliment cremes and browns.

    Pale Lavender Cowrie Shell Cufflinks
    I found these very pale lavender and creme cowrie shells in Kauai as well.  I can just see them worn by a groom at a beach side wedding.  Remember in addition to the bride the groom has to accessorize as well 🙂   and if loves the beach?  then these are a perfect choice.

    Clear Sea Glass Cufflinks
    Now for the sea glass, or beach glass.  Also found in Kauai at Glass Beach.  They can be dressed up or dressed down.  Goes with just about anything.
    So what do you think?  Are you looking for the perfect gift for your man?? You can never go wrong with  little handmade one of a kind finds!
    Have fun shopping! 
    Renee of SomethingSeaBlue

  • Shell Bangles, Stackable Bracelets and More Beach Jewelry! 25% OFF JEWELRY SALE!!

    Stackable Sea Glass, Stone and Shell Bangles!
    ******25% OFF ALL JEWELRY SALE AT SOMETHINGSEABLUE*******
    Well its been a fun weekend!  I just love getting lost in my workshop surrounded by shells, rocks and sea glass!  Options are endless when you get lost in creativity 🙂

    Sea Glass and Shell Sailboat Necklaces
    I like to create peices that take you right back to the coast…that make you feel the sand under your feet and the sea breeze against your face….well not really! but you know what I mean!  Anyone who loves the beach, knows what I mean 🙂  Especially for all you beachcombers!  There’s nothing like a day at the beach finding treasures…

    Shell Bangle, from Shell Beach Beachcombing Day
    So here are some of the results of my day of “funness”!  You know that really should be a Webster word!  Because it completely describes the moment 🙂

    Kauai Cone Shell Bangle
    I love bangles and I have tons of beachcombing shells from this summer in Kauai with my daughter and other beaches around California, so why not combine the two …They are simple and cheap!  I figured I create some not so expensive like ones with Sterling Silver and Gold.  Just for some of us that want the look without the cost.  So here’s my $15 line of Shell and Gem Bangles.  I used gold colored brass. 16 gauge wire.  and Silver colored permanently colored copper wire.

    Stackable Shell and Stone Bangles
    They are fun and can be stacked with your other favorite bangles.  I love them and wear them everyday!  So when Im away from the beach, I can look down and dream a bit 🙂
    Beach Stone Necklace
    Also here’s a line of beach stone necklaces and wire wrapped sea shell sailboats.  Several of the ones above are for a store in Grover Beach that is going to start carrying my jewelry, but stay tuned for more listings at SomethingSeaBlue

    Shell and Pearl Necklace
    I just thought I would give you a sneak peak!  Prices for this collection range from $18-35.  If you are a store or gallery and are interested in carrying some of SomethingSeaBlue peices please contact me…I do sell at wholesale prices to stores and boutiques.

    Sea Shell Sailboat Necklaces
    Okay, so what do you think???  Want to go for a walk on the beach??  Sailing??  Whale watching??

    Stackable Bangles only $15!!
    If you just can’t get to the beach right now….scroll down through some of my blog articles of my trips to the beach and the inspirations that resulted from them…

    Kauai Cone Shell Brass Bangle
    And you will feel like you were there too 🙂

    Sea Glass and Sailboat Necklaces
    Have a wonderful week!!!!
    Renee at SomethingSeaBlue

  • Sea Glass, Sailboats and Scrimshaw … All Things Nautical

    Sea Glass Sailboat

    So as I’m sure you have already figured out, I am a lover of all things “sea”. As any lover of the ocean, comes a love of anything reminiscent of the ocean…. sea glass, sailboats, art forms like scrimshaw, whales, any sea creatures and all things ocean blue. Above is a sea glass sailboat under the full moon. I found this cobalt blue peice of sea glass on one of my early morning walks in solitude at my favorite place in Half Moon Bay, CA. It was one of the inspirations for my name of SomethingSeaBlue.

                                         

    Grandpa at the San Francisco Harbor in 1987

    As long as I can remember, I have loved walking along the harbor and seeing all the different sailboats…some for weekend pleasures and some as people’s homes. Since I was just a toddler my Grandpa used to take me for long walks along the harbor in San Francisco, to, as we called it “to see the boats”. That is a series of memories I will never forget and probably served as a foundation for my love of all things sea. Above is a picture I took of my Grandpa in 1987. To me it is a perfect portrait to describe him at heart

    Sailing in Tiburon, CA

    There is just something so wonderful and mysterious about a life at sea. My Grandpa has told me stories of living at sea in the South Pacific during the war in the 1940’s. He lived on the USS Colorado and visited many of the South Sea Islands. Even the other day during one of our conversations he told me about how they had to search for the missing Amelia Earhart when she came up missing. So much history…so many stories.

    Brown Sea Glass Sailboat Necklace

    So here’s some of my latest creations combining two loves…sea glass that I have found on some of my beachcombing days in Kauai and California. Above is a brown sea glass sailboat wrapped with gold wire with a pearl, picturing sailing under a full moon.

    A collection of Scrimshaw I inherited from my Grandma

    One of the fascinating forms of old historical art work that I love is Scrimshaw. What is Scrimshaw you may ask? Scrimshaw is the name given to handiwork created by whalers, It takes the form of elaborate engravings in the form of pictures and lettering on the surface of the bone or tooth, with the engraving highlighted using a pigment. Here is a sample of some of my collection above.

    I love the texture and shape of this peice

    The making of scrimshaw began on whaling ships between 1745 to 1759 on the Pacific Ocean, and survived until the ban on commercial whaling.

    Sailing in Half Moon Bay, CA

    Scrimshaw essentially was a leisure activity for whalers. Because the work of whaling was very dangerous at the best of times, whalers were unable to work at night. This gave them a great deal more free time than other sailors. A lot of scrimshaw was never signed and a great many of the pieces are anonymous. Early scrimshaw was done with crude sailing needles, and the movement of the ship, as well as the skill of the artist, produced drawings of varying levels of detail and artistry. Originally, candle black, soot or tobacco juice would have been used to bring the etched design into view.

    This is one of my favorites since it combines with lighthouses which I love!

    So Scrimshaw, Sea Glass and Sailing…what do you think? Ready for a trip to the beach? If you are a coast lover and anything like me, that means you also are intriqued with Lighthouses. So why not take a drive to the coast, wander around your favorite beach, find the nearest lighthouse and imagine….

    Sailing in Redondo Beach, CA

    The lonely sailor lost at sea…but imagine his comfort when he sees the faint light of the lighthouse in the distance, beckoning him home to safety….

    Sunset at Redondo Beach

    Thanks for joining me in my daydream of all things sea…..and how my love of the sea had its beginning….

                                                    Renee of SomethingSeaBlue

  • Sea Glass Jewelry, Beachcombing Treasures, Wire Wrapped Beach Glass and Shells!

    Clear Sea Glass with Pearls
    Well its been a long summer!  So much beachcombing up and down the California coast and the shores of Kauai.  Now time to put a twist on these favorite beach finds.
    Aqua Sea Glass from Kauai
    Isn’t this a gorgeous peice!  My daughter found this in Kauai…its so amazing that I had to keep it for myself 🙂  I added a little rose quartz and moonstone charms at the top.  Wanted to keep it simple to show off the gorgeous aqua blue color.
    Green Heart Sea Glass from Kauai
    This “heart of the sea” came from Kauai as well.  I wire wrapped it with silver and added a sprinkle of hearts and pearls.  For some reason when I wear this it reminds me of the Heart of the Sea necklace Kate Winslet wore in Titanic, well except hers was a diamond and not simple green beach glass!  But as they say, the value of a peice many times is what the owner makes of it 🙂
    Wire Wrapped Shell from Kauai
    My friend Josh in Kauai dives for shells and he so graciously gave me alot of his treasures…this little shell has a faint swirl of lemon yellow and purple winding up the shell.  I wire wrapped it in gold wire with a sprinkle of purple swarovski.  What do you think?  Simple for a beach bride?

    Black Beach Stone Necklace with Aqua Sea Glass
    Ever go on beach walks and find the most amazing beach stones and rocks??  I seem to always gravitate to the smooth black flat beach stones.  This rock I found at Moonstone Beach in Cambria, CA .  I absolutely love that beach for beach stones.  In addition to the famed Moonstones, you can find an abundance of jade, agates and many other beach stones perfect for creating little jewelry treasures…  and for those small pebbles you dont know what to do with??  Last night I decided on Cuff Links!  Perfect for the groom that loves the ocean.  So stay tuned for cuff links up and coming to SomethingSeaBlue.

    Sea Glass Earrings, Clear Beach Glass from Kauai
    Simple and Elegant, perfect for the beach bride.

    Sea Shell Necklace with Blue Sea Glass, Jamaica Shell
    My friends Sarah and Jared found this shell while combing the beaches of Jamaica on their honeymoon….and I inherited it 🙂  Thanks guys!!!!  Do you like it??  I paired it with a Puka shell I found at Tunnels Beach in Kauai along with a blue sea glass chip found as well there.

    Once In A Blue Moon, Blue Sea Glass Moon Pendant
    So “once in a blue moon” we find such a sweet little perfect moon 🙂  I just love the color on this one!  Ever wonder what all the sea glass colors mean? Or in other words where they came from?  What were they before they became part of your beachcombing treasure box?  Check out my article Tumbled Tears for some suggestions.
    Wire Wrapped Green Beach Glass Necklace
    I know…this one is a rather large peice!  And I kind of went a bit crazy with the twist of wire …oh but I was just having so much fun!!!  Do you have any peices of sea glass from your beachcombing that you are not sure what to do with??  If you have the artistic desire, go and get some jewelry wire and try your hand at it…or you can even contact me and perhaps I can wrap it up for you into something you can wear and enjoy.  Perhaps it has a special memory attached to it for you, so why let it sit in a drawer…it can become a great conversation peice.

    Green Sea Glass Wire Wrapped with Copper
    I love the green and copper color combo here.  Now speaking of a special memory…did you know that part of the name for SomethingSeaBlue originated with me finding a gorgeous peice of cobalt blue sea glass??  It used to be my habit to go early Sunday mornings to walk and write (well not simultaneously of course!) at my favorite place in the world, Half Moon Bay, CA.  One early morning I was walking and my head was full of creative thinking getting ready to open my shop and I stumbled across two seperate peices of cobalt blue sea glass!  My favorite color and hard to find!!!  I still have those two peices. 

    Aqua Sea Glass from Kauai, Wire Wrapped in Silver
    So since I primarily was a bridal seamstress trying to take a turn in my business and take it online, and coupled with being a complete ocean lover….then emerged the name SomethingSeaBlue.  Something Blue for beach brides.  So that is why most items in my shop have a peice from the beach or ocean 🙂

    Sea Glass Earrings with Black Peacock Pearls and Labradorite
    Okay well thats my story for the day…. hope you enjoyed the show!  Now are you in the mood for some beachcombing yourself??
    Simple Green Beach Glass Pendant, Kauai
    Like I always say, “take some time for a stroll along the beach”  and look down once in a while since you never know what little treasures you just might find!  Have a great day!!

    For some reason this blue eye reminds me of a curious whale eye! 🙂
    Renee of SomethingSeaBlue

  • The Awesome Jewelry Blossom! Jewelry Pouches

    Green and Blue Jewelry Blossom
    *****UPDATE***** Most of these blossoms have sold but check out the new ones just listed at SomethingSeaBlue on Boheman !!  Or if you would like custom made ones for a wedding/bridal party just email me at Somethingseablue@gmail.com   Thanks!!  1/16/2015
    Going away for the weekend? This is a colorful fun way to keep your jewelry organized for your fun getaway… the Awesome Jewelry Blossom!

    Colorful 8 pockets inside
    Fun and colorful fabric combinations create these easy 8 pocket jewelry or cosmetic pouches. 

    Cosmetic Pouch, Travel Jewelry Pouch
    Several years ago my friend gave one of these to me as a gift and I use it every vacation or weekend trip I go on…I love it!  So easy to just grab a few pairs of earrings, necklaces and bracelets and throw ’em in here and pull the drawstring and Voila!  all safe and protected.

    8 pockets inside in blue and green lotus fabric
    8 pockets make up the side and then there is the large center section as you can see above, which is perfect to fit your bulkier items like bracelets and bangles.

    Birdhouse Fabric Jewelry Blossom
    Are you a bird lover like me??  I have a couple different combinations with bird houses and bird’s nest fabrics.  What a great gift idea !  Or how about a gift for your bridesmaids?

    Birdnest Fabric lines the 8 pocket interior
    These can not only be used for jewelry but they make a great little cosmetic pouch as well.  Easily fits all of your eyeshadows, lipsticks a small mirror for the center pocket and easily can fit into your purse.

    Bird Nest Fabric Jewelry Blossom, Cosmetic Travel Pouch
    So how about it??  What do you think?  If you have any ideas for fabric combinations or perhaps you just love butterflies or dragonflies or anything really!  Just send me a message , I can do a custom one for you no problem! Or customize several different ones for each of your bridesmaids with a theme to fit them each personally…I love all of your ideas!   Be creative 🙂

    Hummingbird Jewelry Blossom

    Cosmetic Pouch with Hummingbird Fabric

    Aqua Blue and Pink Jewelry Pouch

    Hawaiian Print Lining

    Hot Pink Polka dots Line these inner pockets…
    Have a wonderful day!!!

  • The Latest Boho Chic Jewelry!

    Just show and tell today folks!  Some of the latest Boho Chic Jewelry! Fun and colorful additions for your wardrobe….have fun browsing!
    Blue and Pink Sea Glass Earrings

     
    Apple Green Boho Bracelet

    Pineapple Quartz Earrings with Aqua

    Navy Blue Boho Bracelet
    Labradorite and Moonstone Earrings

    Hot Pink Jade and Honey Jade Stars

    Burnt Orange Bracelet, Wire Crochet

    Red and Blue Flower Bead Earrings
    Something Blue

    Star Earrings with Blue Sea Glass

    Chartreuse Bracelet

    Aqua Blue and Raspberry Pink Earrings

    Garnet Red Boho Earrings
    Green Flower Earrings

    Blue Flower Earrings, Boho Chic Jewelry
    Pink and Copper Wire Crochet Boho Bracelet

    Crescent Moon Boho Bracelet
    Red and Turquoise Charm Bracelet

    Orange Agate Necklace

    Turquoise and Carnelian Boho Chic Earrings

  • Travel Jewelry Roll Cases! How to Organize Your Jewelry While Traveling

    Large Lotus Jewelry Roll
    (**UPDATE…most of the rolls below have sold but the pix give an idea of what can be created especially for you!  Contact me if you would like one made in the color combination of your choice, and check SomethingSeaBlue store on Boheman for more listings,  thank you!!  Renee   1/26/2015)
    Going on vacation? In need of some great gift ideas for bridesmaids? Tired of throwing your jewelry in your purse or cosmetic bag and then when you finally reach your destination its all tangled up??

    Perfect to fit everything and no tangles!
    If your anything like me…it’s hard to find just what you are looking for..just the right size, shape, colors and of course easy to use!

    Black and White Damask with Green Silk Roll
    I’ve tried to use the little jewelry blossoms which I do love because you can put so much jewelry in the seperate little compartments and pull the drawstring and its all protected…but the downside…you can’t see any of it! So you thumb through each compartment until you finally find the earrings you were looking for…ever happened to you???  then  you know what I mean! 🙂

    Several months ago, I made a few rolls for myself and put them online and thats when I started to get some feedback of what people were looking for.  So these jewelry rolls have gradually evolved into more practicality, and yet still fun and girly, because that’s what us girls want right??  They have to be fun and pretty too 🙂

    Just small enough to tuck in your purse
    So far I have small jewelry rolls like you see here and the large one above, which is great because it can hold long necklaces and has a seperate bottom sectioned pocket so they dont get all tangled up!

    Chocolate Brown and Aqua
    If you like something here and you would like to choose a different color theme, please just ask me!  I love it when I get requests…I say “send me a picture of a color combo you like, even a particular fabric that you like and I will try to either find that particular fabric or something similiar.  I am completely open to your feedback.  If you have a suggestion of a different size or number of compartments or anything…please let me know..that is how this whole “evolving” happens! 

    Soft Kona Cotton, so no snagging!
    I have come to realize that I really do like working with the Kona cotton on the inside.  I love th look of the silk, but sometimes I wonder if in time some earrings or chains may snag the silk.  It looks pretty and is silky soft but I really think the cotton has a smoother look.

    Perfect for a weekend getaway

                                           An added “catch all pocket” to the small jewelry roll

    So how about it?  Get your creative juices flowing and send me a note with your feedback!  You can either leave me a comment here or click on my website and convo me with your ideas or requests.

    Choose your own color combo, send me a pix of what you like!
    Soft Pink Damask Combo

    Pink Ribbons Jewelry Roll for Breast Cancer Awareness

    Pink and Brown Combo, Flower Jewelry Roll

    Hummingbird Fabric Jewelry Travel Roll
    Thanks for reading!  Have a wonderful day and remember always make time for a stroll along the beach or lake or whatever water is near you!!!   🙂
    SomethingSeaBlue