While living in Nicaragua, we’ve had a lot of time. A lot of time to take on special projects, to read, to learn Spanish, to connect and explore. It’s very easy to fill up that time and become busy doing things you love.
One of the projects I took on was starting up Beenie Beads. The concept was inspired by my talented friends, Kim & Kim. Both of whom have their own jewelry businesses (Drift Designs & Purple Lotus). I have always loved their creative abilities and am happy to support and promote their amazingness!
It started with a few facebook calls and chats, and then we (well THEY) came up with the bracelet designs. The idea was to work with young women in the village where Nathan and I live; to employ them and teach them a new craft. I hoped that this tiny project would inspire and give them a new sense of purpose and community. Once we had the designs, “the Kims” sent me all the materials I needed to recreate the bracelets here.
Working with Joseline, Gisela and Anabeli for a few afternoons was really special. We sat around and learned how to make the beautiful pieces together. We shared stories, talked about aspirations, and really connected. In a few hours I got just a little more insight into their lives. They were really proud and happy when I told them that people who lived in Canada and Australia had ordered the bracelets. These girls have never left Nicaragua and have experienced very little outside of their communities… so it was really nice to see them giddy about it!
The bracelets are now for sale at two different stores here. One in San Juan del Sur and another closer to us in Iguanas. If anyone back home would like to order one or two, I will be bringing some back with me to Canada in a few weeks and will be happy to mail them out (I already have a few orders). Beenie Beads are made with love in Nicaragua by Nicaraguans.
Please contact me (info@beneEsse.net) and let me know what you would like. I will send them out by post by September 20th and you should have them by Thanksgiving.
Pine Wood Bracelets
($18 each, or 2 for $35, or full stack for $47)
Pine wood: Inner peace, tranquility, determination & protection
EARTH – Lava Rock (black): provides stability in times of change & provides guidance and understanding
SUN – Aventurine (pink): thought to be the luckiest of all crystals, a stone of prosperity, enhances creativity
SEA – Howlite (turquoise): calming, a stone of awareness, aids in meditation can be used to relieve anxiety & encourages calm and communication
Charm Bracelets
($15 each, 2 or more for $12 each).
The charm bracelets are a perfect way to honor your journey and your practice. Choose your colors (available in black or brown) and your charms based on what you are drawn to (Peace, Om, and Buddha are the popular ones) then wear it proud.
