Nothing Better than a HAPPY CUSTOMER

CRACKER JACK BRACELET - SOLD

I received a wonderful email this morning from one of my Etsy customers. I shipped the "Cracker Jack" bracelet off to Australia last week and she received it yesterday as her note reads:

"Hi Jilliene,
Parcel arrived today and it is just stunning! I broke the bangle I always wear on the right hand recently and have been feeling naked without something there. Thank you very much for letting me take home this piece. I find everything about it makes me smile and I will certainly be back in the middle of 2009 to discuss a project with you. Thinking of requesting a couple of pieces to be made, if you have time. Anyhow if I don't speak to you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year. "

I am all smiles. My kids and I have been sick and it has taken a toll. This was the shot in the arm I needed. Poor Aidan had a 3 week virus turn into pneumonia last week and our little Eva has been home for the past 4 days with a fever, cough and congestion. Both kids have been glued to my side - there are just somethings in life that require mommy. I have been a full time nurse and part time patient (once my husband comes home, it is my turn to whine.) Unfortunately, my responsibilities at my part time job and as a part time student have been neglected which stresses me out. I also have a serious case of cabin fever. This email from my happy customer came at the perfect time!

Etsy Extravaganza!!!

Holy Moly - I've been a beading fool these last couple of weeks. I am way behind in just about everything and instead of tackling "the list", I bead beautiful, whimsical things and I feel happy and safe and calm in a world that does not feel familiar to me. Our times seem uncertain, volitle and troubled and yet, when I sit quietly and create for the sole sake of creative expression, I am Ok. This is my reprive, my repose, my oasis. (smile) Thank God.

I have updated my Etsy Shop with most of the new items although I have a few more to photograph. I have also set aside a couple of pieces for Christmas gifts.

A little of this, a little of that

I gave blank handmade cards to the grown ups in my family this year for Easter. My mom is always asking me to make her a few for this birthday or that event so I thought a few spring sentiments might be a nice treat.
I have been dieing to do another piece of jewelry but I just cannot commit to the first bead. I find myself staring at my bead organizer, considering, debating, completely unfamiliar of my style. I'm so new to this art form that I often feel clumsy and intimidated. So I closed my eyes and let the inspiration come to me. I saw the colors of the Ocean and I could almost feel the sea breeze on my face. This is what came of it...
Inspired is just two weeks away. I'm so excited yet feeling the pressure because i have several swaps to complete, all of my class supplies to pack and I need to put in some extra hours on my current work project so I don't fall behind while I'm away. I started doing work for a new client last month and it is an absolute delight. I am archiving four generations of photos and memorabilia which includes scanning, restoring, cataloging, and scrapbooking their incredible family history. Needless to say, my office is a disaster:

I have to report a breakthrough I had last night. I have really been struggling with the back page of my art journal page design for the swap. I have started and discarded a number prototypes, but last night it came to me and I am feeling a huge relief. What a goofy thing to feel stressed out about - right? Here are a few of my attempts...

and here is the design I've decided to go with although I may still do some detailing...