Masters at work: Karen and Ron Ramsey

Master goldsmith Karen Olsen Ramsey and I are collaborating on a custom design project for a mutual friend. We are all excited to see the finished product. Today I popped over to Karen's studio — a cozy cottage filled with tools, projects, and 2 loveable dogs nestled on 30 acres — to get the project rolling.

As part of my Photo a Day Challenge for March, I brought my new camera and was so excited I did when I saw Karen's studio. There's nothing like being in a goldsmith's studio with all the hammers, cool metalworking tools and variety of pliers.

As an added bonus, I got to peek into her husband's wood shop. The warm smell is so inviting, and look at the hand-carved pieces that master wood carver Ron Ramsey has in process!

This sweet bear is one small part of a rustic fireplace mantel that will live in Florida when completed.