Meld(t)ing Business

I've always enjoyed plays on words, and the idea for this entry hit me after I spoke with my business partner. I have been concerned about my lampwork jewelry business, and have been trying to stir up new accounts and ways to sell my art. One of the reasons I got out of the heat this summer was to be able to create new work in the hopes that it might increase my business. Once summer is over and I return to Phoenix, my other job will be busy, and I don't know that I will have the time to play and be creative, so I am "stockpiling" new designs now.
The approach I take to my business is different from most, however. Milissa reminded me that most of my business comes from the non-profit sector. I sell on a website called www.biddingforgood.com. This website is a clearing house for non-profits, and a buyer or contributor can go to that website and search for the non-profit of choice; or search for items to buy at auction, like jewelry, vacations, purses, etc. The profits go to the various charities running the auctions.
This conversation reminded me that though I love to make my beads, and really love to sell them, its all part of a bigger picture. I am trying to put myself out there, and let Karma do its work. I truly believe that what you give is returned to you. I am merely laying the groundwork for the rest of my life, and trusting that whatever positive energy I give will sometime be returned. Or, to put it another way, my whole life, love, work, business, is a "Pay It Forward" venture.
Even if the profit is not tangible, it is "banked". The interest compounding will benefit all.

Rain!

It just finished raining. Who would have thought that would be cause for celebration, but it is. This "fish out of water" really looks forward to the rain now. It cleanses and cools, even here in Flagstaff.

Bob is on his way here, he says the heat in the valley is "Toasty". Personally, I think the thermostat down there is on "broil", which is why I am here. It will be good to have him here for the weekend, it's been almost a week since I've seen him.

I think today's lesson is gratitude. Gratitude for the chance to be in this place, and do what I do, gratitude to the people who made this possible, and to the universe for letting the stars align in the right formation.

I was up late last night creating. I was using beads I have had for awhile, and they finally spoke to me. I came up with some very interesting designs. I am sure it happened because I allowed myself to play and dream and be thankful for the time and energy to do it.

One of the goals I have set for the time I am here in Flagstaff this summer is to allow myself to experiment with my jewelry, and try new techniques. This is one of the necklaces I created last night. The focal "peace" in the necklace was created by KimmBerly Ioane and was purchased last weekend at the "Flagstaff Art in the Park" show. The complimentary lampwork beads along the side were made by me with sand from Sedona, Please let me know what you think.

I think it's time

to write. Sometimes I might have something profound to say, other times I will probably not write at all. But, for now, as I sit on my balcony and enjoy the beautiful weather that is Flagstaff, I will just express gratitude. To my husband, Bob, for helping to make this happen, to my employer, Healthwaves, as well, and to this beautiful place, Flagstaff, which has rescued me, and is allowing me to refresh and reconnect.

It is hard to create when you can't breathe. When the air is clean and fresh, the surroundings glorious, and the heart is open, wonderful things can happen.

So, here I am in Flagstaff, playing with fire for the time being. Phoenix will have me back soon enough. I am learning a new rhythm in my life; to slow down and appreciate all that is given. To not always have to do-sometimes just to be. And, to create. New beads, new jewelry, new ideas.

To sniff around a little, like my dog, Jewly, (aka LSD). To take my time and appreciate. And sometimes, to just take a little nap!