New Signs of Life

While many of the trees that used to shade my house (one of the main reasons I rented it) are gone or eventually will be gone when the tree guys finish their work around here, there are still signs of life everywhere. I forget how quickly signs of spring show up each year. Here it is, in the middle of February, and there is green everywhere.

I have a thing for daffodils. Each time I move, I eagerly await this time of year in hopes that past tenants planted them. This year, I looked and looked in my front yard for little daffodil shoots coming out of the ground and was extremely disappointed when there were none. I decided to be happy with what I did have (irises) and get on with life.

However, lo and behold - I found some these when I got home from work today:They were hiding behind my house (a place I don't often go - it's messy, there is an alley back there, and it's just not pretty). They have given me new hope for my little yard - my now sunny yard thanks to the recent ice storm. I can't wait for the sun to stay up just a bit longer after work so I can do some work behind the house getting it cleaned and ready for spring and summer. There is a great patio back there, so eventually, it will be out outdoor hanging spot. In the meantime, I'll just set up a chair and go sit and look at my daffodils.

Alchemy

Etsy has an area they call Alchemy. It's a great place to go and post something you are wanting but can't find on Etsy. I browse it once in a while for someone wanting a bracelet that I think I can do. The problem is my bracelets abstractly represent what people are asking for. I can't make a bracelet with a zebra on it but I can do black and white stripes. I almost had given up on alchemy until the other day.

Someone was looking for a bracelet with marigolds. I gave it a shot and my idea was accepted. The person wanting the bracelet even had some beads in mind. I'm really excited about the outcome and am waiting for final approval on the beads. The bracelet will end up representing marigolds, brown eyed susans, and blue grass flowers. I've posted the pictures here of the options I came up with (one obviously without the blue). I love all three and might make a similar bracelet for my brick and mortar shop feature in July.

I love doing custom orders as it forces me out of my safety box. I get in the habit of making bracelets I would wear and custom orders push me to do colors and designs I wouldn't have done without the request. They are educational and lucrative at the same time. I like that.

I have made some other jewelry this weekend. All necklaces for the shop in July. I don't want to take any of my items I have listed on Etsy for obvious reasons. I need to get some bracelets and earrings made, but I'm well on my way to getting enough inventory to make me happy.

Stay tuned for later today when I feature and Etsy shop that continues to impress me and bring a smile to my face.