Phase One Update

Phase one of starting over began in earnest at the beginning of September. Since then I have:

• Lost 30 pounds and have kept it off. This may not seem like a lot to some people but for me it's HUGE. I am over 100 pounds overweight and I struggle, really struggle to lose weight. 
• Moved my business office from the downstairs family room to the spare bedroom upstairs.
• Become slightly more organized (I'll always struggle with this one...) I've decided that I don't procrastinate I just do better under pressure.

Dream Office found on Pinterest
http://pinterest.com/pin/279223245618908058/

Phase two is going to include the following goals:

• Lose another 30 pounds. I won't be able to lose the next 30 as fast as the first 30, but I'm not giving up. 
• Finish organizing the new office. Everything has been moved in but nothing is put away in a way that allows it to be uncluttered and usuable. I need usuable!!
• Begin reclaiming the family room from my crafts and general clutter. The ceramics business has exploded into our living area. Now that the business end has been removed, I want to get back to using the storage room as my studio. My husband did a wonderful job of helping me get things set up, I just need to finish the move into the room.

I'd love to complete phase two by June 2013, but I want to be realistic. The weight didn't come on, the disorganization of the office didn't happen, and the creep into the family room didn't occur in less than 8 months. It may take longer to accomplish one item on the list let alone three. 

Dragonfly Jewelry Box from GrapeVine Ceramics & Gifts

Here's to Starting Over...

What am I starting over on you ask? My approach to business and life in general.

In the past few months I have found that I have become reactionary. Life has handed me and my family a series of circumstances, that seem to have us struggling to accomplish the daily tasks of living let alone pursue our dreams.

Decorative Ceramic Ball with Sunflowers by
Grape Vine Ceramics & Gifts

Things that were often accomplished daily now get started and never finished. There just isn’t enough time in the day, or we can’t complete them to our satisfaction.  This ends now!

For myself at least, I’m going back to my lists. Lists for what needs to be done for the household, for my children, for my mother-in-law, and for my businesses. I used to keep a planner by me 24/7, sorry kids it’s coming back. It’s the only way I can make sure it’s all done.

Spring Flower - Reusable Magnetic Calendar by
Crystal Gayle Photography

There have been some big changes in the house in the past few months. My oldest has started his first post-college job and moved to another town an hour away. His daily presence is missed in the house, but his departure opened up some space for better everyday living and business organization.

Chalkboard Mail Organizer by
In Order

So I guess the real reason behind this post is to let everyone know, my home, my schedule and my life are going to be getting a makeover soon. It may be small steps at a time or giant leaps... There may be times I falter but it will get done – one step at a time.

I’ll keep you posted.

Spring has Sprung

Spring has sprung and this great little button would be perfect for your new project...

Yellow Flower Button w/Bee - Ceramic
available from GrapeVineCeramicsGft.etsy.com

This adorable earthenware buttons features a bee on a flower with yellow petals and a brown center. It measures approximately 2 inches across and is glazed on both sides so it won’t harm your garments.

Buttons are a fun way to dress up your outfits, projects and collections. While I am partial to this button, there are many more button options out there. Check a few of my favorites out...

Tropical Fish Button Ring
available at SassyBelleButtons.etsy.com

Spring Flowers Button Necklace
available at TrinketsNWhatnots.etsy.com

Faux Dichroic Glass Polymer Clay Square Buttons
available at KatersAcres.etsy.com

Time Flies....

Time sure flies when you're having "fun."

It's been a long dry spell between posts and I must apologize. I've been dealing with family issues and haven't had the time to play in my shop... and oh how I've missed it, but family comes first and always will. I had have some great plans for new items and expanding existing lines.

Coffee Time Windchime
from GrapeVine Ceramics and Gifts
http://www.etsy.com/listing/94218121/ceramic-wind-chime-coffee-time-wind 

I am getting back into the swing of things and can't wait to see what develops next. I have faith it's going to be a great year. 

Even with all the disruptions, I was able to obtain all my goals and am trying to work out the goals for the remainder of this year.

Rustic Cuff with C.S. Lewis quote:
You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream
from The Rustic Cuff
http://www.etsy.com/shop/RusticCuff 

Goals for last year:
Sales: 50 - DID it - I actually had 95!!!
Items in Shop: 50 - DID it - Found so far my magic number for sales is 50 items in the shop.
Craft Shows: Have enough inventory that I don't have to strip shelves - Not so successful - Family issues, but I only did one show.
Consignment: Keep consignment shops stocked with best selling and new items - For the most part this was accomplished. My sales were up for the year with my consignment shop and in a stagnant mid-western economy I can't complain.

Goals for 2012:
Sales: 100
Items in Shop: 75
Craft Shows: I will have enough inventory and do more than one show this year!
Consignment: Continue to keep existing consignment shop stocked and try to add at least one more.

Life is a Challenge Plaque
by Heritage Valley Pottery
http://www.etsy.com/shop/heritagevalleypotter 

I believe these are obtainable and may even raise them as the year progresses - got to make it a challenge.... don't I?