January 22nd marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year.  This is the Year of the Rabbit. These gentle creatures have a lot to teach us and we can all use a little motivation and inspiration. 

Get Plenty of Sunshine & Exercise

New Year’s resolutions are difficult to keep, but even a short daily walk outdoors will do wonders for the mind and body.

Remember to Rest

Sleep recharges our batteries, giving us renewed energy for whatever the day may bring. What could be better than an afternoon nap?

Appreciate your Family

Take care of each other. Sometimes all it takes is a kind word or a smile to let someone know you care.

Learn to Share

Everything is better when shared with a friend.

Stop & Smell the Roses

Appreciate the beauty of nature. When you do, life’s magic will astound you.

Let Someone Else do the Driving

Everyone wants to be in the driver’s seat, but as a passenger you can admire the view.

May the Year of the Rabbit be your best one yet! 

Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!

Is it my imagination or do the months go by faster and faster every year?  How could the holidays be over already?  I suppose it is an exciting time as we are presented with a clean slate in a year filled with new opportunities and interesting experiences.

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all my wonderful visitors for reading, following, liking, and commenting!  You inspire me every day to create new works of art and to share ideas with so many of you with a passion for creativity and admiration for the beautiful world in which we live. 

May all your dreams come true in 2023!

Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!

Throughout the summer, I usually take a break, by posting every other week.  This year there were so many inspirations to share, that simply I kept going.  I can’t believe it is September already.  Where does the time go?  I will be taking a vacation from blogging and will return in time to celebrate the month of October with lots of Halloween fun.

You may be wondering what I will be doing during the break. First, I have some ideas for new arts and crafts projects to explore. 

Second, I wrote a mystery thriller novel and hoped to get it published, but the timing wasn’t right.  I will edit the manuscript and start sending it out. I know many of you have written and published books. Any advice regarding publishing and/or literary agents will be greatly appreciated.

Most importantly, I plan to rest and relax, taking in nature in all its splendor.

I will do my best to keep up with all your blog posts and look forward to reading and commenting.  I truly appreciate my followers and visitors and send best wishes to all.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting

As a “dog person” for most of my life, I am amazed to find myself fostering not one but two cats.  I foresee several amusing distractions during upcoming projects.  You may be wondering how two cats could be helpful in an art studio.  Let’s find out…

Quality Control

“I earned a master’s degree in watching paint dry.”

Inspiration

“I get some of my best ideas while doing yoga.”

Stress Relief

“Pet me and we will both feel better! And get rid of that dog pillow! It’s freaking me out.”

Design Development

“Remember, everything looks better with cat hair on it.”

Design Ideas

“Can we talk? Make more cat-themed crafts, which are edible and tuna flavored!”

In the best possible way, the art studio will never be the same  

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

February 1^st marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year.  This is the Year of the Tiger.  There are many things we can learn from tigers, and we could all use a little inspiration. 

Independent & Confident

Confidence, independence and feeling comfortable in your own skin are attributes to aspire to and strive for on a daily basis. 

Beautiful & Exotic

A tiger’s stripes are as unique as fingerprints.  Each of us is a rare beauty, both inside and out.  Don’t be afraid to share your gifts with the world. 

Cunning & Watchful

Survival depends upon awareness of the environment.  Whether you live in the wilderness or an urban center, developing the ability to differentiate between opportunities or pitfalls will serve you well. 

Powerful & Courageous

Sometimes you just have to roar to be heard.  It takes courage to know when and where to assert yourself. Stand by your beliefs. You’ll be glad you did. 

Nurturing & Protective

Our families and friends bring love, companionship, and fulfillment into our lives.  Be grateful, appreciative, and supportive to let them know they are loved. 

May the Year of the Tiger be your best one yet! 

Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!