Looking Forward to 2012

UPDATE FOR JAN. 9, 2012: I have been really under the weather for several days since the original post and there is still some organizing to be done.  I am to finally see a doctor today and hopefully, I will be back on track quickly.

ORIGINAL POST: I hope that all started 2012 with a smile and sunshine on your face.  This week's focus is upon organizing and cleaning so that I can start on new projects and work more efficiently.   Do keep checking back as that I have all kinds of ideas swirling around in my head, and if the fates allow, I will tackle them and post ASAP.  Keep warm, everyone!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I do want to tell everyone, "Merry Christmas!"  

     Also, I want to explain that I am taking a hiatus from making anything for my online shops or for sale.  I did sell some of my JellyBean Critters at the holiday show at the gallery during the month of December.  I do have plans for placing JellyBean Critters back on my Etsy and Artfire shops, as well as a couple of other items soon.  

     Meanwhile, I will be listing blogs and websites below that I find interesting for all DIYers.  This will be ongoing for a few days and then I will add a page with these links and more.  Just keeping checking for new additions.

CRAFT GAWKER

Don’t Throw it Out! Crafty Ways to Reuse Wrapping Paper

Looking Ahead

Most artisans who sell their items online have stocked their shops, and promoted, promoted, promoted their handmade items.  I admire them for it and I heartily support the purchasing of handmade items for Christmas gifts, etc.  But this year I am pulling back from the selling aspect.  Those who know me a bit are aware that I have had a year of challenges that have directed my focus and energy elsewhere.  This Christmas, I need to make items for my family and that comes first with me. 

However, I do intend to get back into making things for my online shops after the holiday season, providing that no new challenges prevent me from doing so.  I also am contemplating getting back into my artwork, both drawing/painting and digitally. The New Year is a time of redirecting my focus.  Oh, and I have new plans for my JellyBean Critters.

The Sharon Burton Daily

The Sharon Burton Daily is featuring my JellyBean Critter, "BubbleGum," today and this is an honor for me.  However, this budding online publication is worth perusing, and I encourage others to subscribe. Topics are diversified ranging from handmade items of interests to education to technology, travel, etc.  Do visit this site and become a subscriber if it appeals to you.

Have A Handmade Christmas This Year!

I am thinking handmade for all gifts this year: either made by me or by other fellow artisans. I am from a family of artists and artisans and the greatest honor for us was to receive something made by one of our family members. My online shop items are those which are inspired by gifts made for my family and friends. When one gives a gift that is handmade by you, you truly do give a piece of yourself to the recipient. It projects your thoughtfulness and time into the making of that gift. 

SIAMMIE Is Featured on An Artfire Collection!

One my JellyBean Critters, SIAMMIE, is being featured in a new collection titled: "Sew Cute!", curated by AbsintheDragonfly.  I am so honored and take this as a great compliment.

Please click on the hotlinks above the photo
in order to access the collection and the curator's site.

Getting Back on Track & Free Artwork

After a schedule of 6 visits to hospitals and doctors, mainly for my father, within 8 days, I find that I may have time for doing some sewing and creating today.  I have a long list of projects to complete and need to get to it.  But, I am taking time out to publish this and let all, who are interested, know that I am back on track.  The artwork to the left is for your use if you wish to use it... All that I ask is that you give me credit for the artwork as that it is my creation.  It is a variation of one released last year (check out Art to Share tab at top of this page).  Have fun with it!

SIAMMIE on Etsy Treasury!

My SIAMMIE, one of the JellyBean Critters, has been featured on an Etsy Treasury!  I take this as a compliment.