Thursday, March 4, 2010

I've Been Pondering....


It's been a year now since I started this blog and my online Etsy shop, and I have to say it has 'changed my life', as the cliche goes, allbeit in some unexpected ways.
Online selling was a new experience for me. I had previously been selling my paintings and photographs at local exhibitions and by word of mouth. The more I learnt about how Etsy and online selling worked, the more excited I became, dreaming of being able to quit my day job and becoming a self supporting artist. However, as reality set in, I thankfully came to realise that my place on Etsy was not all about making money or becoming a 'business success'. Though I do get a thrill when something sells, it gives me the most pleasure to know that something I created has touched someones heart, kinda like a 'God thing'. Everything I make is prayerfully created and so I wait with patience to see who God brings to my shop. As I use my gifts, my prayer is that my works may be a blessing to others, just as I am blessed in the joy of creating. Wow - what a privilege to be in such a position!
The other surprise blessing I have discovered over the past year are the wonderful people I have met online through Etsy. I hope some day we may meet in person - though I know, I do live so far away! The friendliness, helpfulness and support have blown me away. I have made some wonderful friends that are ready to help and pray at the click of a button!
So as I continue to juggle my days between work and family and housekeeping and creating and the miriad other things that crop up, know that I am so grateful to all of you out there. I have learnt so much and am having the time of my life!
By the way, the two paintings you see are my favorite easter creations. The originals are no longer available but I plan to make these available in card form in time for Easter, so if you are interested, send me a little convo though my shop or comment below so I can list one on specially for you!



13 comments:

  1. Happy blog-aversary Jocelyn! I don't think that is a word, but you know what I mean ;) *hugs*

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  2. Beautiful, inspiring blog... I am following now. Love you work... but you already know that ;)

    Aloquin
    http://www.aloquin.blogspot.com

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  3. I love your paintings! The 2 in this blog would be great as an ACEO. hint! :o)

    ♥♥♥

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  4. Really lovely paintings and good to hear how you started out.

    Love Julie
    Silk N Style

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  5. Amen Jocelyn! I love your work, and I am especially thankful to know you via etsy ♥

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  6. The people are the best part of etsy! I love the friends I've made! God bless you Jocelyn!

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  7. I've only been on Etsy about 2 1/5 months, and I have discovered the same thing, that there are some remarkable people there!

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  8. So honored to call you sister! Bless you Joc!

    xoxox, Daff

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  9. I loved your post! Congratulations on your one year anniversary! Only eternity will tell all the lives you have touched with your online wittness.
    Bless you,
    :o) button

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  10. What a wonderful post and I couldn't agree more! In fact, last week I had a lady send an email, complimenting how I parent a chronically ill teen and offered a gift from her shop! I was floored. Well, in turn I realized that I could do the same to women who struggle - women I wish I lived closer to so that I could help. I paid it forward and sent gifts to them. The feeling I had from receiving and giving was so much greater than making a sale.

    Nice to "meet" you.

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  11. I love your perspective. Thank you for sharing!

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  12. If feel the same way about Etsy. I don't know if I'll ever be a full time artist and photographer but in the meantime I will cherish the relationships, daily inspiration and support I find with the lovely people of CAST.

    Your paintings are beautiful.

    BTW, you've just received the "Beautiful Blogger Award"! To find out about it, visit my blog: http://velishart.blogspot.com

    Just copy and paste the award badge from my blog to yours, then list 7 things about yourself & pass it on to 7 other people! :)

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  13. I'm quite new to etsy and TEAMCAC but I've found the same as you, Jocelyn!

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