Some days we just need words of encouragement and happy thoughts.
Today was both a good and a not so good day for me. It all comes down to how I choose to perceive it.
My art and craft journey began many years ago. It was exciting for me at my first show in the 80’s when I made my first sale. Someone actually paid for an item I made. It is the “first sale” excitement that comes to vendors. I liken it to small business owners that frame the dollar from their first customer. It is a memorable event.
Since that first sale my holiday seasons grew to include regular shows throughout the year. That’s the thing with seasonal sales, there is a limited timeframe to make and build an inventory for each show. So, especially near various holidays I found myself participating in shows almost weekly.
The shows were always fun. Talking with fellow artists, crafters and the regular customers was energizing. For me it was also a productive time, I always demonstrated my work during the show. This practice gave me an opportunity to share my technique and also supplied me with increased inventory to assemble at home throughout the week.
At the time our plan was that I could do shows and teach classes in retirement. Though I am not in retirement yet, the plan has changed Life changed and there is a new reality.
Today I cleaned out the storage area that has housed my show inventory for the last 10+ years. That is how long it has been since I participated in a show. The area looks great and I feel “lighter” not seeing all those boxes taking up both physical and mental space.
Part of me is a little sad, well actually it was a very painful process at the moment. It caused me to face the fact of a season of my journey closing. Even though I have known for years that it was time to close this leg of the journey, taking action to do so made it so real.
However, there is a larger part of me, the “lighter” part that is looking expectantly for the opportunity that I now have room for physically and mentally. I do not know yet what it will be, but I do know there will be one.
I hope this encourages anyone going through unexpected changes. Sometimes life has a different plan and the dream can live on even if it takes on a different form.
