a spring in my step...

A frail little leaf clings to the fence as if it's trying to hold on to the last bits of winter… but the blooming flowers & budding trees have other plans.  The promise of spring is in the air, with a crisp breeze and the sun's warmth upon us, the cold winter is slowly being left behind…  

"In springtime, love is carried on the breeze. Watch out for flying passion or kisses whizzing by your head." {Emma Racine deFleur}

 

 

"If you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it's your world for the moment." {Georgia O'Keefe}  What a beautiful way to think of the world… I always feel that with spring comes new beginnings.  So here's to hoping you're all enjoying the fresh air and to experiencing the happiness it brings to me.

what are you worth?

We must always remember to value ourselves as artists.  And although we may all go about our pricing differently, I found this article to be a nice & simple way to start.

"You may have been trying to compete with mass-produced goods, or pricing your work at an amount that you could afford. Remember that handmade items have more value, and perhaps you should price for folks who have more disposable income than yourself. You are not always your target market. Your buyer is willing to pay more for something that comes straight from the hands of an artist. Price for them, not for everyone."

"Your incomparable voice is the culmination of your creative life:  your education, research, travel, dreams, personal experiences.  This is valuable, so give it value."

And afterall… if we don't value ourselves and our work, why should anyone else?

shades of green

in honor of st. patty's day (and my love for all things green)…

not all who wander are lost…

This is such a great story that was shared with me, so I just wanted to take a moment and share it with all of you too. There are 3 parts to the story and I've posted them in that order. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

part one

bittersweet...

The sun is shining and the birdies are chirping, what a wonderful start to the weekend.  The time when people get to take a break from their hectic lives and relax and enjoy their families.  They play outside, snuggle up with a good book, or even take the dog for a walk and meander a little longer than usual.  For me only one thing's missing… another weekend without my hubby.  So I just try to make the most of it.  Whether the distance is far or near, and the time is short or long… I like to remember our walks together.  It's these moments that carry me through and keep me smiling until I can see him again.

it's the little things...

A bit of background on this one...  My hubby's squadron puts on an annual harvest auction around Thanksgiving.  The spouses put everything together, including baskets with loads of goodies.  It was in one of these baskets that I discovered someone with crafty talent.  Amongst my spoils was a gift certificate to her etsy store.  But it was the tiny tin that caught my eye, you'll never guess what was inside.  fabric covered push pins… oh yes, perfect for coveting.

I suppose you could say I have a tiny obsession with all things fabric covered… canvas, earrings, buttons, you name it, and I want it.  So of course I asked her if she had any more, and unfortunately the answer was no.  However she said she could make me some, no problem, and voila the finished product...

and then... a little surprise

what!?  seriously... a CHAIR push pin?  I know you all must be laughing at my level of excitement, but I absolutely cannot wait to have them in my hot little hands ( I guess I better get my cork up & ready).  And if push pins aren't your thing, she makes other fun stuff too...  Thanks Jaime, I'm positively giddy!!
find her on facebook & stay tuned for her newest etsy shop...