Where Women Create

I finally picked up my own copy of this magazine.  I've read so much about it on others' blogs.  I actually saw it in my own Publix.  I wasn't expecting it there.  I figured I would have to go to Michael's or Barnes & Noble.  I am still pouring over it.  Such inspiration I've never seen!

COVER STORY:   She is in a league of her own.  Elizabeth Maxson is the reason I started painting furniture the way I do. (And if I can ever find my camera, I will share some of it!) After reading her story I understand why she closed her store, I just wished I had made it up there before it happened.  I admire her on every level and hope to see her work in person some day.  Meanwhile, I await her upcoming book.  How exciting!!

MY BLOG DESIGNER:  I have been walking around showing everyone Karen Valentine's picture and bragging, "Here's the woman who made my blog page!"  Like just saying that somehow makes me as famous.  I'm just so proud to be able to say that I have what feels like a real connection with someone in that publication. 

TRUE INSPIRATION:  Someone call the authorities!  This woman is running my store!!  Wait until you see the front windows and awnings of this store.  I think I can even make out A BIRD IN HAND written on the windows.  Please check out more of Rebecca Ersfeld's beautiful store:  Vintage Living.  I will most likely be on both of her sites most of the day. 

The more research I do, the more I am seeing this amazing network of talented women.  I think I have mentioned that before, but it is really incredible.  When I was in blogland a few years ago, it seemed that it was something just starting.  It has taken off on such a grand scale that everyday I am more amazed than the day before.  As I continue to read every word of this magazine I notice some common threads.  These successful women love the Lord, their families, and their homes.  The fact that a business has bloomed from little seeds planted so many years ago is the biggest blessing. 

I also see the word fear mentioned by a few.  I can relate to that.  Karen Valentine's tip is, "Don't let fear stop you from doing something that you love or that is important to you."  The quote on the side of Elizabeth Maxson's desk tells of what our fears truly are and why they shouldn't be.  Susan Rios' tip is, "Try not to compare yourself with others...."  I like that especially.  There are many similarities with many of these businesses, but everyone seems to have their own little spin that makes them unique.  That is where I fit in, I believe.  I will continue to sort out what makes me "me" and find my niche among these women, I hope.

Seeing these women's great creative spaces, reminds me that I have an AWESOME piece of furniture in storage that will make a great place to store art supplies that now are stuffed into my bookcase.  It is an old secretary top that I have tweaked a bit.  It sits on top of an old iron frame.  It has a lot of little spots that will be perfect for my collection of rubber stamps, old books that I like to rip pages from, and other art supplies while still looking like a great piece of interesting furniture in the new sunroom.  And don't get me started about Gertrude!  She is my old dress form that once graced my booth.  Hopefully, she is still in good shape.  I've got to find a place for her that my husband can live with.  Yes....it's a plan and a place to start.

Thank you ladies of Where Women Create and blogland for inspiring me to get off my creative rear and get going!   I have work to do!!