Mission Impossible

I’ve been making jewelry since the late 80’s and along the way I became very addicted to the craft. I still draw almost every day. Drawing will always be a part of my life, but I’ve never thought of it as a money maker. Thou I have had a small success with my sewing note cards on Etsy. 

I’ve always designed my jewelry to be something I would want to wear. Something a little off center and maybe a bit larger than some people might wear. That’s my style thou. I like rustic, earthy tones with an over all look as if the piece was dug up at a dig in some far away land. That’s all good and I really enjoy it. 

I know I have to design for other tastes. I fear this is where I often fail. I don’t put the same amount of joy into items that aren't my style. Not the colors or elements I love the look and feel of. Beyond my likes lies the out of the comfort zone designs. These pieces normally take a bit longer to make. They don’t seem to fall in place. Thou I know they must be done. 

I’ve always loved doing craft shows. I so enjoy the face to face with people. Talking to them about how each piece is made and any little story linked to it. I’m introverted big time, but once I relax talking about my jewelry is very easy. 

Over these last years their have been major changes in weather (yes global warming is real and the earth is round). I’ve also noticed it’s getting harder to unload the car, set up the tables and sit all day in that heat. Well I’m not a spring chicken anymore, but I just refuse to give up. I think the tables and props getting heaver over time is less a problem that the darn heat. 

Notice the fan on the shelf of my chair

The last show I did with a friend, was really hot. We looked at each other sweat dripping off of us as we folded up the tent and just said why. Almost together we said cause we enjoy it. 

So I guess it all boils down to what makes you happy. 

Just wondering thou if I’m that hot how does it effect the shoppers? Do they say "Oh I'd love to go to that show, but it's so hot"  I have stopped going to one of my favorite shows in Nashville because of heat and the parking issues.

So where is the happy spot? I want to continue to do shows as long as I can, but 90 degree plus is not workable for me. I over heat and turn an interesting blotchy red before I can get the car unloaded and stay that way till I get back home and out of the shower. At that point I usually fall over and say I can't do this anymore, but continue on. Yes I accept this mission. 

So lets go make something that brings us joy 

You are special and you are loved