.

2008-08-16T23:48:00.003-07:00

Once again I have seem to gone missing in action for a week or so...
Let me recap what exactly has interrupted the flow,
First my laptop crashed - yes the dreaded blue screen..no bootable devices found ..
AAAAGGGGHHHHRRR!
well since I no longer have a warranty, I will have to wait to magically
sell a few more sweetlings to replace the HD.
Any tips from you guys on how to recover many lost files would be great, by the way...:)
The good news is that I have been busy, really busy actually working on a few wholesale orders, the first of the season, one I have been filling and the other still working on getting the items just right.
I just adore custom jobs, it encompasses everything I love about my line of work.
Creating new fabric pieces, fabric shopping, and working closely with the sweetest and coolest ladies ;)
In between that I was featured in a wonderful treasury that went front page, and as a result had the most orders I ever had on etsy in one day, hurray for front page..:)
Things are starting to pick up around the shops as sales goes, I think I am starting to get the hang of listing through the day, and updating the shop with fresh & new sweet little surprises often..it really has given me a boost, all the sweet notes I receive after my customers receive their packages and write to say how much they liked their item.
I am feeling rather harmonious..~
Once I get my laptop fixed I will be much more inclined to post more, I am in slow motion ancient dell desktop mode until then...not fun.:(
Well I thought I would peek in and say hi,
Do check back once in a while, and post a comment or two..
I am off to make three pairs of those lovely Victorian Vintage Inspired Velvet Cuffs,
I need them ready to ship out Monday, along with the pretty handkerchief and some Sakura Purselets...Lots to do
Take Care and Enjoy our fleeting Summer~
xoxo
georgia

2008-08-05T23:47:00.005-07:00

It is funny how one can overlook something completely...remember that little sakura stamp I so painstakingly carved the other night?
The next morning, when I proudly showed it to my daughter, she immediately noticed that the letters should be backwards if it is to print correctly...duh...major goof! so i commenced to slicing off the letters and still used it to prettify the latest order that I shipped out today(thank You sweet g..so score the cutest wallet I EVER made..the little hedgehog on a branch, oh how I am making one for myself this week)

In other etsy news....
There are a plenty of my humble little creations rocking the treasuries lately:

Felt So Good...

~*~ thank you shavingkitsupplies

Airy & Late Summer...

~*~ thank you bubbletime

Imagination...

~*~ thank you WeeBeaks

Victorian Dreams...

~*~ thank You nanalee

~ Whew that's a lot of treasuries for one little Sakura Sparrow...:)
It is an awesome feeling though when someone says they like your work, especially since I really do pour my heart and soul into every piece, each stitch and I care about the impact it will have on its owner in the future.

As for the little studio here in the old tree, I am in the proccess of creating some prototypes for a few wholesale accounts, which I particularly love, so my workshop is scattered with fabric swatches, pretty colored thread and luscious thick wool felt in such pretty colors,
which inevitably means new sweetlings are always around the corner...so look for them in both shops soon..
well my nesters its way, way too late
(bad georgia) I will definitely need at least 3 cups of very strong tea or some espresso in the am to start this engine again.
This is all so fun though, isn't it?
And I am glad you are here along for the ride...
xoxo
georgia
>^_^<

2008-08-03T02:55:00.005-07:00

Hi there little Nester's,
I thought I'd show you what I spent a few hours working on today,
besides two new sweetlings, that are destined for Sakura in the mid morning sometime tomorrow, basically after I finally manage to wake up and start the day after staying up a little to late tonight, and after I drink copious amounts of matcha
whilst shooting some good morning sun pics for the listings...
I spent the better part of today finishing the cutest little muslin bag with a rather flamboyant blue bird embroidery work on its front, as well as a new wallet, a mini version of the original fire-bird one I sold last month, this one is smaller, brown, and has a sweet hedgehog embroidery patch on it...so KAWAII...
Well after finishing those two, and setting all the little ones to sleep, I sat myself down and while I listened to a podcast (from my favorite Craft Sanity) featuring the black apple(she is soo cute, isn't she, with her tiny nose and round cheeks...emily martin that is) commenced to carving a stamp for the hang tags on the bags and pouches for Sakura...

Here it is all rough and choppy, this will officially be my first foray into block printing, something I have been just dying to do.I will show you a photo of a print from it tomorrow....

In other simply grand news,
I sold my very favorite little pouch on Thursday, and shipped it out with a rather pretty painting to match ( i hope you love them k...:) on Friday...we just love it when we get an order over here, I have a mini cheer team that shrikes with delight and gives lots of high fives and hugs every time I sell something, it is so sweet, it almost makes me cry, seeing how excited they (my little ones) get, mainly because its all for them, that I do any of this anyway,,,happiness is being a mom, to you guys..i love you little birds...

Oh and I wouldn't want to forget to mention the wonderful treasury I have so graciously been picked for this week:

Thank You so very mush,
Leelinau >> :)

Well its off to cleanup my mess, then fall down to sleep...
xoxo
georgia
>^_^<

Balancing Motherhood & Etsy

2008-07-28T22:58:00.004-07:00

Balancing Motherhood & Etsy

Original Artwork by: georgia sakura

I have pondered just how many of these beautifully curated etsy shops, have a small little people crew behind their pretty banner, and as it turns out quite a few...many of the great items you often see here are being cultivated in a garden full of love and hard work with plenty of little feet running about, with devoted etsy moms balancing it all very well, benefiting the world with not only their wonderful creations but with the upbringing of the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
Having children changed their craft..for the better
"These boys are my inspiration for so many things I create. And without them, I wouldn't have the drive to create without looking back. Before I had the boys, and didn't have to provide for them, I would illustrate, create, all of it, but I wouldn't always finish every project.I'd let it sit for months(or years) and it didn't really bother me. Now I absolutely have to finish each project, because our financial well being depends entirely on it."~The Mayberry Sparrow
No matter what your situation, whether you are a full time stay at home momma with a supportive spouse or a single momma who is working hard to make ends meet. Having the ability to combine the two biggest loves of our lives at once is a real gift.The extra income from selling on Etsy has allowed many of us to contribute to our families needs and in some cases is the main source of income, which equates to serious business, So while it is a pleasure to have the little ones always with us while we work, Its not without its challenges,"It is difficult to manage it all, but my daughter's activities always come first. It is amazing how busy their little lives become when they turn 5."~Rural Abandon

Rural Abandon's Studio RuralAbandon

"Finding a balance is challenging..the balance between being a devoted, caring mother and fulfilling enough of my own personal needs to be a happy woman, independent from my role as a mother. That, and finding time to sleep.On some days you feel like you’re pulled in so many different directions that you’re not doing anything very well. But I find that this challenges me to find creative ways to keep the kids occupied – in a good way!"~Pink Posies

While a majority of our work tends to be done while they are asleep at night, It is possible to work along with them successfully. Setting up a designated area for them to safely create away from your business helps.

Anniepoo Soaps'Studio Anniepoo

Anniepoo Soaps has a little team of helpers;"They each have jobs...Bella helps cut up the soap, AnnieClaire is my mixer and Lilly...well...she thinks she's helping :)We usually create everything in the kitchen and they pull up chairs all around me...we package things in our school room....they have a little table that we made where they put things in bags for me and I tie everything up and get it ready to ship."~Anniepoo's Her family, like us and many others, also homeschool our children. Which allows for many daily learning opportunities and great time flexibility.

gSakura's Home-School/Sewing Area - gSakura

Keeping them busy Giving little ones small jobs related to your shop, like stamping tags, cutting lengths of string, ect. & the bigger they get, the more detailed work they can handle, learning to use a sewing machine and html have been a successful part of our curriculum. For us the key is inclusion, because they are involved, they respect the time needed for me to get work done and they all pitch in to help out where it is needed, also by involving them, they are getting a first hand lesson at being entrepreneurs. This is paving a way for a strong work ethic and proof that you can follow your dreams and really do what you love for a living.These everyday lessons are apparent in many of our children already being very creative themselves, appreciating the work that goes into a hand made object and actually living a hand made life.
For all of these reasons, it is more than worth any sacrifices that are made.I try and savor the precious moments that I am allowed to be in their presence, teaching them, laughing with them. It will not last forever...these years will fly by, I tell myself."Keep your children your priority, and remind yourself daily of how blessed you are to have them, even when they're making your day difficult."~The Mayberry Sparrow So the next time you find yourself being whisked away from your work, take a moment to pause and look into their little faces,remembering why you are working so hard & Enjoy time they are here with you.

Reported, Researched and Stressed About by:
Georgia Sakura

Resources:
http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/artforchildren.html
Children & Art Resources for the Budding Child Artist
City Guide for Parentshttp://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/choose-a-city/
http://blessingsforlife.com/crafts/homemade_art_supplies.htm20 Homemade Art supplies
the Switchboards Forumhttp://www.theswitchboards.com/forum/

Post-Script:
You may view this article in its rightful home over at the very Fine, Etsy's own
Storque:
http://www.etsy.com/storque/section/thisHandmadeLife/article/handmade-kids-balancing-motherhood-and-etsy/2209/

Personal Note:
I would love to give a very big THANKS,
to all of you wonderful d sweet etsy moms, that kindly participated in the interviewing, and general inspiration for this piece, I dedicate it to everyone of you,
Each of your stories are incredible and utterly heartwarming examples of the true definition of the Balancing Act, of Motherhood and Etsy.
And a very special thank you goes out to the sweet Michelle & the team over at the Storque, for giving me this awesome opportunity to do this article, and especially Michelle for all your great tips and wonderful editing expertise~
Merci Beaucoup
xoxo
georgia sakura
>^_^<

2008-07-27T23:05:00.012-07:00

good evening dearies,
oh how i have missed rambling off here....as you might have noticed of late
i have gone missing from these pages...hmmm the mystery...the intrigue...
the house full of sick children that need me...

Yes we have been fighting the good fight against

Flunomicus Grandiousis.
and yes i made that up.
i have officially determined that i have found the hardest part about being a mother.
the pit in your stomach and worried mind you have when they aren't well..sigh.. :(
(they are slowly recovering abet not without raspy coughs,

runny noses and an ear infection or two.) but we carry on...

lets see, where did i leave off?
oh i know there was that little article i was consumed with for two weeks...
and it turned out just grand,
you may read it in its rightful home amongst all the other labored after lovely Storque articles here:Balancing Motherhood and Etsy

(incidentally i will be posting it next in its entirety)
The only thing that has made me sad, has been the fact that i literally could only fit in the article, so many of the absolutely wonderful quotes from the many,many etsy moms
interviews i received. I feel so bad and the only way i can make it up to them all
is to start another blog, devoted to the subject
where i will be asking for volunteers to republish their interviews, as well as feature them and hopefully persuade them to do a week of guest blogging...
I am excited about the idea, now i just need to find the time to actually set it up.

You see i am writing this amid a rather
urned upside down house/studio/businesses headquarters,
that's what missing 2-3 solid weeks from work will do to you,
handling Sushi & Japanese Markets' back-orders alone has been something of a feat for me. Patience, is all i ask of everyone..things will smooth out over here soon(i hope).

During all this whirlwind of tissues, cough syrup, cuddles and calming...I did manage the exciting expansion of the shop into Three...yes you heard right folks, now you can find the most lovingly made, delicate curio & feminine trappings in three different etsy shops!
I am so very happy i decided to go through with the move,
for now i am as motivated as a jet engine,

my sketch books are overfull with new designs,
so without further ado i give you ~

the Sparrows Nest

here you will find all of my little adornments, romantic and delicate fare, needlework and some nature inspired art

Georgia Griego Fine Art

all of my Original Art; paintings, drawings and soon pottery

and my old faithful, Sakura, which is now
Sakura Originals

where i am featuring all of my purses, purselets, pouches, and original designed bags.

Do take a moment and visit us there, I would just adore you to offer any feedback, i am all about improvement! and for your trouble and because you visit me here and listen to me go on about fabric and flowers...you can enjoy either free shipping or 10% off your order total, just mention the blog in the comments section at check out, and i'll hook you up!

I wasn't able due to some unusual circumstances to give you that sneak peek I promised, but I do still want to share my favorite sweetlings that now happily reside in their respective shops:

~ The Sparrows Nest ~

~ Sakura Originals ~

~ Georgia Griego Fine Art ~

Thank You so much for stopping in here once and a awhile,

I really appreciate your time and hope you stick around, maybe even leave a comment or two...

I would love to hear from you and make a new friend!

Well now that i am getting back into the swing of things, i won't be such a stranger here anymore...promise.

Take Care all you little Nester's...

xoxo

georgia

>^_^<

2008-07-09T20:23:00.005-07:00

Hello and greetings from one busy
bee...I hope you have been good and
enjoyed your fourth of July
celebrations...I am in the final
stage of the Etsy's Storque article
I am writing about Balancing
Motherhood and Etsy.

This whole proccess has been a HUGE inspiration to me,

not only in the area of getting to meet some truly amazing and wonderfully talented
etsy moms, but it has rekindled the spark I had in high school to write
professionally, I wrote for the school newspaper and seriously contemplated a life in journalism
for a little while...I soon discovered I am far to wildly creative for that world and my
writing took a turn toward poetry, but it has seemed to come full circle with this assignment,

I have found a way to write about something
I am so very passionate about.I know that this is only a beginning
of this type of work for me, I will happily, actively purse this type of work from here on out.
~

In other great etsy news,the original pen & ink drawing

Pretty Little Flower

has been so sweetly chosen to reside
in the most lovely of treasuries all
about flowers, it has been
wonderfully curated by lahua, who obviously loves flowers as much
as I do..Thank You lahua ..You can via the treasury here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=55253

~
Well, after this wild ride of the article is settled, I will be turning my attention back to the
unveiling of two new Etsy shops,which will be debuting with the many many

carefully hand made sweetlings I have blogged about all last month..I really can't wait to
show them all to you, and because you are so sweet, I will choose some of my absolute favorites and offer them here on the blog before I go live with the shop opening...allowing you to acquire
these limited editions before they are even introduced to the etsy world.There are no reproductions in this line, every piece I have created is
a True One Of A Kind Gem-----

I will be offering a sneak peek throughout the weekend.

Here is a project that I told you about some time ago, I decided to take my time and show you each step of the way until its done...So for now you have the first parts of an original Hand Embroidered Drawing of a Sakura Tree

Well I'm off to format the article for submission tomorrow, if all goes well, Friday if it doesn't.:)Happy Wednesday Evening~

xoxo

georgia

2008-07-05T15:52:00.004-07:00

Prairie Barn ~ Original Oil Painting Georgia Sakura circa 2001

Happy Saturday my friends~
I wanted to pop in and say a big 'ol
THANK YOU
to all the amazing responses I had for the call to interview for the Storque.
I was completely astounded at the quantity of people that have graciously shared their personal thoughts and comments with me.It is so very inspiring.
I am still going over all of the interviews & I continue to write the article, I am just starting to work on the layout, as I have had some really wonderful pictures submitted already!
I think this article will give the world a peek inside of a very special type of way of living.
I am so excited & I never imagined it would be this fun, only because I have had a chance to get to know so many wonderfully talented etsy moms along the way.

Mesmerized and utterly zoned out at the fabric shop last night...
I have acquired some very unique and beautiful fabrics and trimmings, as well as some tools and embroidery threads of the most subtle and sorbet like pallet, I simply can not wait to get started making things with them, I seriously have a problem, I have way too many ideas and not enough time in the day to get to creating them.SIGH.

One more obsession...
I recently realized whilst getting an order ready for a recent sale I had on etsy..
(Thank You k...I am much obliged) that I get way too into creating these special hand made gift packages for every order, It usually takes me the remainder of the night to make all the little extras I've been including with their purchases, I just love surprising people with pretty things...
I am way to sentimental sometimes.

Latest Mission...
I have been on the lookout for a really great cleanser, moisterizer and serum or ridiculously heavy cream. something wonky is happening with my skin lately, and it has given me an excuse to switch my products up ,so I would love to try something handmade, problem is I just don't know which one to choose!So do any of you have a favorite (preferably natural based) skin care products that you are using, that you love..that also came from someone indi or that sells on etsy? I would like to support small craftsmen/women with as many of my purchases as possible.
I would really appreciate any suggestions that help me wade through the oh soo may choices out there. ? . :)

Well its back to the article, and sewing and embroidering, and maybe some pen & ink later??
we'll see....
Take Care and take a moment to say hi,
it really makes my day to hear from you, really.
Have a great weekend
xoxo
georgia
>^_^<

2008-07-02T15:26:00.006-07:00

Hi there, I have been meaning to come in and update you on all the exciting happenings here at Studio Sakura, and I finally managed a few moments to do so...

Well the best and biggest news by far is that the Michelle & Lovely Ladies of the Storque, contacted me on Friday, with the awesome opportunity to write an article that I pitched a few months ago, about managing running a etsy business while raising our children.

I had started a forum thread in May about the subject and there were some really wonderful posts, you can view the thread here.

Soo I am busy working on the said article, and still managing to sew up some of the cute and totally functional Lil felted pouches, I will have a nice bakers dozen ready at shop update time, which, because of my new and latest mission will be pushed back a wee bit. I need all my brain power focused on this article, as it is so very important to me, not only because it is a wonderful opportunity, but because it is a issue near and dear to my heart.

Call for Interviews~ all you devoted etsy moms

I would love to hear from you, if you would like to contribute any comments and or maybe be available to give a short interview about the subject, please contact me if your interested, either by leaving a comment below or through etsy convo, or via email, and I will be in touch with you soon.

The article will be running in the next issue of the Storque in Mid July.

The other thing that was really cool...I attended the 2008 Cave Creek Film & Arts Festival Poetry Reading on Sunday, and read my original poem, in front of a packed room/coffee shop. It was a wonderful event, and there were so many talented writers present. The really great thing that happened was when it was my turn, and Carol Perry creative writing chair~ called my name, my two children followed me up on stage, unbeknownst to me, I was tipped off when I passed her and she said "oh there's three of you", I turned and there my two oldest stood on stage with me!, I went to them and told them that "I think I have to do this alone sweeties, go on and sit back down.."

Everyone laughed which actually helped me break my nervousness..so I read me poem under the glaring bright lights and after the applause made my way back to sit down with two very embarrassed little kids, I gave them a hug and kiss and told them it was alright. My husband and the two little ones were hanging out in the front room of the coffee shop, and occasionally we could hear the baby and his loud baby talk and shrieks during a few readings..The only thing I would have done differently was not drink a double espresso and a double iced latte before my reading, I was so wired I almost bounced off the stage, and I really don't recall the actual reading except for my trying to not read too fast!All and all it was a fabulous experience for me and the kids,One I will always cherish..

This is the poem I read:

Untitled~
You saw me in peachy shade and chased me from tree to tree

Later, when our families went back to picking, you found a good one

And hid it in our trouser pocket

You tossed it gracefully into the air

Telling me a funny story

Looking straight at me

Peachy fiddling

You made me wonder if you’ve meant that peach for me

“Might that be for me?” I coyly ask

Its sweet nectar shine on my chin

It’s juices gathering at the bottom of my warm sticky lips

The sun must have glistened through the leaves

On that warm day

And made me shimmer for your hungry eyes

Cause you leaned in

Warm peachy breath

And kissed me

I swelled inside

Like the peaches

Bulging on the trees

~ georgia sakura

I hope your summer is starting off to be a wonderful one, I am doubly excited to launch my new etsy shops and to unveil all of the unique and pretty hand made sweetlings that I have been working so hard on for the past month... If I find some time in the next few days, I will give you a sneek peek~

Until then, I encourage you to get in touch with me if you would like to be a part of the article, I will only be conducting interviews for the next few days here.

Otherwise leave a comment just to say hi !

xoxo

georgia

^_^

2008-06-25T22:46:00.001-07:00

Hi You~ Just a real quick head poke in to wave and say hi, hang in there...Things are about to get really interesting around here soon...The shop update is nearing & this time it will be also an unveiling of a couple of new shops, loaded with a slew of new handmade goodness. I've grown tired of half way doing things, from now on its ALL THE WAY! !My hands ache and eyes are blurry when my head hits the pillow these nights, but the fabric and thread is flying and I am trying to just keep up with my ADD designers brain. My little elf baker keeps me supplied with the most lovely yummy treats( like banana bread and cinnamon rolls) with copious amounts of tea to keep me going. Soon you will be getting a sneekie peek, until then...I'm off to create and work on the new shops....Take Care & remember that sunscreen folks!! xoxo georgia^_^

2008-06-21T23:58:00.002-07:00

happy new summer weekend you~
whew! these weeks are flying fluttering away so fast, aren't they?
I am so very busy here at my little studio in the desert.
I am hand sewing, machine sewing, working with polymer clay, painting pen & ink and lots of designing.
All in preparation for the much anticipated shop update late next week.
I have happily sent out two orders with much love and extra goodies from the shop as well as some original exclusives...thank you both, you sweeties..I hope you adore your sweetlings...:)

I took a drive past the deserty mountains and cactus to visit with my parents a couple of days ago, I brought homemade cinnamon rolls..
we had a lovely time talking about how i now understand so much more of why they did or didn't do things when we were little, now that I am a parent I understand and relate more to them, I am glad I have the chance to express my respect for the great job they did raising us 7 kids.
I left with many new wrinkles from laugh lines I'm sure and bags of grandma goodies. I gave her the little pouch Santa Fe, from my shop..she loved it. They have always been so supportive in my creative endeavors, they would bring us beads from the Indian reservations, growing up in New Mexico, and since they run a business involving sewing construction gear and accessories, gave me my first job sewing, which taught me everything I know about the craft.
Oh la la la~

In Preparation to Spoon...
And no I don't mean the incomparable Jimmy Whitherspoon for all you hipsters out there, im talking about the radically killer cool new biz and website Spoonflower
I recently was granted a gracious invitation, to design and order my own FaBrIc !!
How cool is that?!?
I bet you can hear my sketch pad and pen smoking with activity from your screen huh?
I have a few ideas...try more like 50 ideas for new fabric, and oh the possibilities for what I will in turn make from them...
Watch Out world here I come!
But seriously I AM very giddy about the prospect,(it has only been a dream to create my very own fabric)
But I am using it as a reward, if the next shop update does well, I will be able to afford the yards and fat quarters i am dreaming up, so call it a bribe....
Well peepz I am far far to anxious for the next update and must keep finishing all these sweetlings if i am to be done in time!
Next time I will take pictures along the way, so I can let you in on the processes involved..which to me is the best part, so let me know if that is something you would like to see here..
Also I would Love, absolutely adore if you were to pass along something for me to give a go at creating...like a special adornment or painting you've always wanted, but never seen, I'm always up for a challenge.
Talk to you sooner than later...
xoxo
georgia
^_^

2008-06-18T00:26:00.005-07:00

greetings once again my cherry blossoms~the night fall finds me once again working on a variety of projects all
at once, I put the finishing touches on a wee wonderful bolete
mushroom, which I started late last night,
I woke this morning at 5:15 with the scent of a new day calling me from
a small open window, I snuck outside and while I sipped a ginger peach
White tea penned this poem;

greeting the day

I opened the door on to

a world of its own

a fresh new scent lingered

in the cool still air

groups of birds flocked to & fro

four, two, one, and calling ones

on the ground, their songs

overlapped- a chorus to the dawn

the grey of the morning slowly

gave way to the light

sounds of people began to drown out

the birds, the tons of speeding automobiles

bustling to work

the trail of ants by my feet

first moved slow

as the light brightened

faster they went, as their work day

too had begun

I sipped my cooling tea

hoping to slow it all for

a moment 2-or-3
~ georgia sakura

~*~

In shop News
I was super ecstatic to sell the two of my favorite Victorian Lace Wraps
in the shop today~ thank You Martha, your a sweet, sweet soul :)

I am a buzzzing bee buzzying around the studio, needle glides through
fabric seemingly on its own accord, I can hardly contain the flow of new
ideas and the challenge of expressing the textural and emotional vision
onto 2-D materials is a challenge, one that keeps my mind fit and agile.

I am listening to either Straight up Classical or some serious early
blues, think Muddy, jhon Lee, the Wolf and Sonny Boy I, then I throw in
some Otis Redding, Ann Peebles and Al Green for good measure, and Top it
all off with a good dollop of some rare Charlie "Bird" Parker,
but the cherry has to be the well thought out laid back sound of the tenor horn of the incomparable Lester"Prez"Young..my very favorite of all..

I simply Can Not move past the masters of blues,jazz & soul in my music
choices, it has been thus for many, many years.
Curious....

~ Excitement is starting to grow about this next shop update, i am going
all out this time, and I have so many new & different Sweetlings to share
with you, I simply can not wait !.!..^_^

I'm off Lil blossoms to organize my fabrics and such for the busy day of creating tomorrow..
sweet sweet day.xoxogeorgia

2008-06-16T23:24:00.005-07:00

Good evening dearies,

I hope your weekend was a super wonderful one, around here at studio Sakura...

I have been very busy indeed.

I finished a new original painting for the next shop update,(which will be sometime by he end of next week) one very kawaii mushroom (in all my inspriednessfrom the front page mushroom activity)-this mushroom is a sweet whimsical fly argic, all bright red with a skirt and spots...after my very heart, i tell you, it took me the better part of a days work too, but its just the kind of work I adore; plenty of hand stitching, felt and designing.

Then there's that tree embroidery piece I mentioned earlier..it is moving along..these things take time, and i never rush them, for it is the feeling of which i have while creating them, that will show through in the final piece. I am after a certain aesthetic that will never come about in any hurry.

I have a bunch of little extra new things I've been creating for the update that are right up my alley..

delicate

feminine

very unique

These days I seem to carry around a bundle of new project ideas with me for inspiration.

right now on my table alongside a now cold cup of green tea, are:

~turquoise calico patches

~a light yellow eyelet gingham(yes both on the same piece of fabric)

~ random scraps of a pink flower fabric that my daughter made the most adorable little hand sewn sweetlings out of when she was 5-6, and I cherish the few pieces left of that fabric.

~a blank small oval embroidery hoop, stretched tight with embroidery fabric...ready for something??

~my notebook where a plethora of sketches, words that make me wander, & many to do lists, that always seem to be overlooked

What wonderful and simple days I live, my children constantly surround me - and their inquisitive questions and random bursts of giggles and roughhousing ensue, while I am constantly creating.

These are the Best of Days~

and in other swell news...

I have discovered to my jolly surprise that I have two more pieces in two separate new treasuries today thru tomorrow. the first made front page ..^_^

powder...blue

curated by:lilldybug

my four little flowers, embroidery piece was featured

thank you lilldybug :)

you can view her calm treasury here..

GREEN tea

curated by:shecological

my original Painting, the tea pickers of Shizuoka is featured

thank you shecological :)

you can view her green treasury here...

To celebrate Green Tea in all its wonderful glory, I would love to give all of you a special gift certificate coupon for 10% off any of our premium imported Japanese green teas,

at our specialty shop

Sushi & Japanese Market

Here is a direct link to the Japanese Green Tea Category

just enter code:etsytea, and your good to go!

Well I'm off to sew, sew and start the first of a few new sweetlings for the shop update next week~I hope your night and morrow is filled with flowers, love, smiles and serenity...xoxo georgia

Butterflies & Flowers II

2008-06-14T17:09:00.002-07:00

I made you a garden...

News Flash: The Little Mushroom Graces the Front Page of Etsy ! People Around The Globe Stop and Smile !

2008-06-14T16:52:00.007-07:00

Late - Way too Late last night, I quickly browsed the Treasury before falling into my bed, and To My SURPRISE, I was featured in a super Kawaii Treasury about MUSHROOMS ! !

If That wasn't super Cool enough, This Morning I checked and it made the Front Page OF Etsy!!!

Whoopee!! I am all smiles and Happies!!

This is the Little guy who was famous for a couple of minutes:

I am one very inspired to make more Mushrooms - girl !

Thank You so very Much, lupiamerenda..all they way over in Italy!!

You can view this sweet little group of Fungi Here:

Mushroom Treasury

:) ^_^ :)

Georgia "Front Page" Sakura (tee.. hee....)

Happy Happy Day! We are in a Beautiful Treasury !

2008-06-12T16:41:00.003-07:00

I am so very happy...The Four Little Flowers
Is being featured in an Etsy Treasury Curated by sandisstuff, it is all about embroidery.. You can view it here:
Sakura in You Say Embroidery I Say...
Thank You Sandi ! >^_^<
Yippee !!! Hop... Skip... Jump...
I'm off to sew, sew, sew....
georgia sakura
^_^

2008-06-10T17:49:00.005-07:00

I am so happy to be back in the saddle, I was completely taken down by a migraine for the past few days..it was not very fun :(
But I am happy to report that I survived. I have slowly started back into the swing of things, I have started a new embroidery piece, a tree not unlike the the one I sold in my etsy shop, this one is slightly bigger. I am also hand sewing a new little felt pouch, with another of my favorite fabrics that I have been saving.
After much deliberation on my part, I have decided to go ahead and open another couple of etsy shops. One will completely devoted to botanical and pampering goodies, which will be opening in early July, and the other a secret surprise, I will be posting clues before its launch. I decided on expanding because I simply have far too many concepts creeping into one shop, my focus is needing a fine tuning. I think it is the right thing, and I am already having fun coming up with expanded lines on a few pushed aside ideas I have had in the recent past.

I will continue to make varied sweetlings and post them in Sakura for now, mainly because I cannot stop creating small sweet little pretties for you to acquire and bring endless smiles and joy into your life with....

Well I'm off to sew and finish that delicate tree piece....

Adieu,XoXo~georgia sakura

Sneak Peek Time....

2008-06-05T20:32:00.005-07:00

I have been happily capturing the good sides of the fruits of my labor, while the light is good and photoshoping them when the sun goes down, I am enjoying the proccess, because its like seeing my work in a whole new detailed way, which is very inspiring and motivating..I am thankful.

I would like to share one of the new hand made sweetlings I made last week, I will be adding them into the Studio Sakura Etsy shop on Friday. But for now here is a sneak peek.....

These are Vintage Velvet Rings

Super Soft and Gorgeous

~*~

Adieu Bonne nuit...

2008-06-04T01:54:00.005-07:00

Camellia Sinensis
Camellia sinensis is the tea plant, the plant species whose leaves and leaf buds are used to produce tea. It is of the genus Camellia (Chinese: 茶花; pinyin: Cháhuā), a genus of flowering plants in the family Theaceae. White tea, green tea, oolong and black tea are all harvested from this species, but are processed differently to attain different levels of oxidation.

Whew!! The last two days have been a blur of thread, papers(wonderful hand made papers) colors purple, olive green, black, turquoise, brown...beads, felt, birds, laughter, music and really good food.I have been busy with my hands again, making a few new sweetlings for my shop update tomorrow, I have had much fun and serenity making them, I hope they find a new home where they will be as loved as much as I poured my own love into making them, does that make sense?...I must apologize in advance, for it is growing late, and my eyes are blurry from staring at row after row of the littlest perfect stitches, all day...:)

These days are quite lovely indeed~

I think I will begin to share with you my favorite teas that I am drinking, once and a while...I am in the paused stage of building my Tea shop, I am hand coding it, or shall I say was, hand coding, until I was bitten by the etsy bug.But lo one day soon I will resume ..oh you pushed aside tea shop...But anyway, I have been so very fortunate and appropriately so, tasting teas from a plethora of wonderful tea companies, for the last few months, so boy do I have some favorite teas!Ok, so for the last few days, I have been consuming the most wonderful Japanese Green Teas, especially their Seneca, from a family owned, grower, named SA, I have been meaning to list it for sale at Sushi & Japanese Market..(that etsy bug again) but if any of you would like to purchase some and become hopelessly addicted, as I have, let me know and I will actually do something non etsy and list their teas at Sushi & Japanese Market for you.^_^Well I could keep going, as you probably could start to tell, I can be quite a chatterbox, sometimes ;0

But as my hands and eyes are beginning to tingle from overuse, I must call it a night and go byebye...But I will be up bright and early (ok, in reality as late as I possibly can) to take photos and list the new sweetlings in the Sakura etsy shop, so do drop in and take a peek won't you?Good Night You.gs

New item in the Sakura Studio Shop...

2008-06-01T12:52:00.003-07:00

This is that wonderful apron I spoke of making the other day,I am listing it in my etsy shop today, I am completely happy with the way this little sweety turned out, I really like the way all of the elements of this apron came together, for a bright and sunny retro feel old school apron delight.!.

You can find it listed in my etsy shop

Studio Sakura

2008-05-30T17:57:00.002-07:00

Yesterday and today have been bright and sunny here in the desert,
the light is piercing and hot, it covers this land and
intensifies all things of color...
I was particularly busy making a bright and pretty old fashioned yellow apron,
it turned out so well, I really am thinking of keeping it for myself,
but in the end I always get much more pleasure in
sending my hand made goods
off to the most lovely and appreciative ladies...
Speaking of which I have been riding a wave of happiness and glowing
with pride about the first two sales over in my etsy shop,
I have sold the hand embroidered tree & a little red felt pouch,
(thank you Sara & Mary Ann), the two sales have renewed my
resolve and I am more dedicated than aver to my craft these days,
I feel as though I can barely contain my inspiration and have
multiple projects in the works as we speak,
and so many i my head and in sketchbooks,
i definitely need more hours in a day.
I hope to be able to purchase a camera soon,
which will allow me to capture all of these
projects in their various stages for you to spy...
I seem to be able to fully finish 2 small projects everyday,
on my best days, that's when everything is running smoothly
and everyone is cooperating well, we love those types of days!!!
There are so many materials that I have been collecting
that are calling my hands to create with,
in the days to come look out for lace, muslin, polymer clay
and maybe some beads and findings....
Thank You for taking a moment to spend with me
here in my little Sakura Art Studio..
I would love to hear from you,
so feel free to post a comment, email or convo me.
I am looking forward to sharing some more of my
thoughts and hand made goodies,
with you so stay tuned...
Peace. Hope. serenity.
georgia

New Piece: The Proud Mother Bird

2008-05-28T23:12:00.005-07:00

I created this new Piece last night,

It is constructed entirely from papers, vintage papers, hand made papers, Japanese papers, art papers, some thread, fabric and shreds of a Japanese newspaper. She will be listed in my etsy shop, Sakura tomorrow.

For the third time, we have a mother Mourning dove that has nested in our cactus tree, in our backyard, her babies just hatched two days ago, so this was inspired by her...

The Proud Mother Bird

i can't wait to show you what i've been making...

2008-05-27T01:49:00.000-07:00

Morning with the trees

2008-05-27T01:14:00.003-07:00

The trees are

A peaceful awakeness

I feel their presence

On my morning walk

The ants scramble

Knowing not

Nor caring

About time

Only that they may work today

Right now

A big black beetle

Rambles

And the trees although

Separated by building

And concrete

Are in a proud silence

They have their comfort

In being alive

for the sun water

And their business

With the creatures who dwell

And spread their seed

2008-05-25T13:27:00.010-07:00

Hi there!
Hope you all are having a wonderful spring weekend.
I have been rather busy for the past few days,
working on some of the items I will be listing in my etsy shop on Wednesday,
I've some sketches ready to be turned into paintings
(I will be featured in a Painting showcase on June 1st)
Sewing; applique work for the finishing touches of a felted wallet,
a new little mushroom plushie pincushion, and a few other sweet handmade things.
But I am really excited about the Spa sets I just listed;

I have been using this exact blend for my personal pampering ritual for years,
I began studying and working with herbs and aromatherapy in my late teens,
It has always been a lifelong passion for me and I am thrilled to be able to share
this special set that I have hand blended with you.

On the listing itself, I couldn't add the full Botanical Profiles
for each of the natural ingredients, that are used in this blend.
So I in addition to printing them out with each kit,
will list it here for reference.

What Follows are the Profiles for Each Pure Ingredients
Found in our Bliss Blend Soothing Calmifying Herbal Spa Kit:

~*~ Ylang ylang ~*~

Scientific Name: Cananga odorata
Description:This extremely fragrant essential oil has a calming effect on the mind and body and is used in cases of frigidity and impotence. It has a wonderfully balancing and stimulating effect on the skin, to correct sebum production and is also used to stimulate hair growth.
Oil propertiesIt has an exotic, sweet smell and is slightly yellow in color.
ExtractionYlang-ylang oil is extracted from the freshly picked flowers by water or steam distillation. The first distillation is called Ylang-ylang extra, which is the top grade. An absolute and concrete are also produced by solvent extraction.

Active Compounds:The main chemical components are linalool, geranyl acetate, caryophyllene, p-cresyl methyl ether, methyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, benzyl benzoate and other sesquiterpenes.
There are different 'pressings' of ylang-ylang oil - with them being called 'extra' and then 1st, 2nd and 3rd pressing. The extra is the very first pressing and contains the highest amounts of esters and therefore has the sweetest odor, while the later pressings have a less-sweet odor.
The 'extra' is not used in aromatherapy, but used in the perfume industry and to have a 'complete' essential oil for aromatherapy, the 'extra' is combined with the 1st and 2nd pressings to form the complete ylang-ylang essential oil.The ylang-ylang oil supplied by us is the best quality 'complete' oil that can be purchased.

Background:It is a tall tropical tree about 20 meters (60 feet) high with large, tender, fragrant pink, mauve or yellow flowers and is cultivated in Java, Sumatra, Reunion, Madagascar and the Comores. The name means 'flower of flowers'.In Indonesia, the flower petals are strewn upon the bed on wedding nights.

Therapeutic properties:The therapeutic properties of ylang-ylang oil are antidepressant, antiseborrhoeic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, nervine and sedative.
Applications:
Ylang-ylang oil has a euphoric and sedative effect on the nervous system and helps with anxiety, tension, shock, fear and panic while the aphrodisiac qualities is useful for impotence and frigidity.
It is particularly useful with rapid breathing and rapid heartbeat, it can also help with reducing high blood pressure and useful for intestinal infections.
- On the skin, ylang-ylang oil has a soothing effect and its balancing action sorts out over-dry as well as overly-oily skin by balancing the secretion of sebum, and has a stimulating effect on the scalp which promotes more luxurious hair growth.
- Burners and vaporizersIn vapor therapy ylang-ylang oil can be helpful with anxiety, tension, shock, fear, panic, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, aphrodisiac, physical exhaustion, frigidity, impotence, insomnia, depression and stress.
- -Blended massage oil or in the bath,As a blended massage oil or diluted in the bath ylang-ylang will assist with physical exhaustion, insomnia, frigidity, impotence, depression, anxiety, nervous tension and stress while having a calming and aphrodisiac effect.
- - -Cream or lotion In a cream or lotion it is used to balance the production of sebum in the skin and thereby correcting and balancing overly-dry as well as overly-oily skin.

Summary:Ylang-ylang oil assist with problems such as high blood pressure, rapid breathing and heartbeat

Safety:It is classed as a non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing oil, excessive use of it can lead to headaches and nausea.

~*~Lavender~*~

Scientific Name: Lavandula officinalisLabiatae

AKA: Lavendar

Parts Used:flowers, essential oilActive Compounds: flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, volatile oil

Background:Lavender is a key component of many products you see on the market today. Usually they are products designed to relax the body and aid sleep, such as bubble bath, lotion, and pillow spray.
While lavender does help to sooth the body and mind, it also has other uses that make it an important medicinal herb. Lavender is an antiseptic and has some antibiotic properties. It's useful for treating skin conditions and can help to relieve indigestion.

Applications:Antiseptic/Antibiotic/Carminative/Antispasmodic
Lavender is primarily used to soothe the body and relax the mind.
- Relaxation: Lavender may be used to help ease mental stress and aid in sleep.
- -Indigestion: Lavender may help to relieve problems with indigestion such as bloating and gas.
- - -Skin: Lavender oil is useful in treating minor burns and skin irritations. It also helps to sooth stings from insects.
- - - Asthma: Because of its ability to relax the body and mind, lavender can be useful in helping calm someone to prevent or treat asthma attacks.
- - - Muscles: Lavender can help to relieve muscle tension.
- - - Depression: Lavender can help to reduce minor depression.

Description: Lavender is a flowering herb that is native to France. It is now grown all over the world. The flowers are harvested during the summer for use as a dried herb or essential oil

Dosage: Essential oil can be applied to skin problems and insect bites.
As a massage oil, add 20 drops lavender essential oil to 20 ml carrier oil.

Safety: Do not take lavender essential oil internally. Consult your health care provider before beginning use of any herb.

~*~Chamomile~*~

Scientific Name: Anthemis nobilis, Matricaria chamomilla, Anthemis cotula - Compositae Family

AKA: Camomile, Common Chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile, Wild Chamomile, Dog-Fennel, Maruta Cotula, Manzanilla (Spanish), Maythen (Saxon), Mayweed, Dog Chamomile, Maruta Foetida, German Chamomile, Chammoniles, Stinking Chamomile

Parts Used: Capitula – flower headsActive Compounds: Volatile oil, anthemic acid (bitter), tannic acid, and a glucoside. Studies have found Chamomile to increase sleep. The monoterpenes also help with coughs.

Background:One of the most loved and most used herbs throughout history is the Chamomile flower. Its name comes from the Greek “kamai melon” meaning “ground apple” due to its apple-like fragrance. Beatrix Potter in 1902 wrote of a healing Chamomile tea given to the feverish Peter Rabbit by his mother. Early Egyptians revered the herb for its effectiveness in curing the chills caused by malaria, or agues.
Greek physician Dioscorides (first century A.D.) and Roman naturalist Pliny (23 AD) both advocated Chamomile baths and warm poultices for relief of liver, bladder and kidney disorders as well as headaches. Chamomiles were also used to refresh the air in a time when bathing was infrequent at best. Stems were strewn on the floor where they would release a pleasant fragrance when stepped on. The yellow Chamomile flower has been used to flavor Manzanilla sherry in Spain, highlight blonde hair color, and repel insects.
Many different types of Chamomile grow throughout Europe, Southern Asia and North Africa, but two varieties are most sought after for their gentle healing and calming properties: German Chamomile, and Roman or Common Chamomile.

Applications:Antibiotic/Anti-inflammatory/Antispasmodic
Antibiotic: Used to treat many minor illnesses and reduce fevers. Tincture is used to treat diarrhea in children. Chamomile’s effectiveness against infection is reported to be 120 times more powerful than salt water.
Anti-inflammatory:
Eternally used to reduce swelling and inflammatory discomfort, congested neuralgia, or facial swelling caused by abscesses.
Antispasmodic:
Reduces indigestion and menstrual cramps. Also used to induce menstruation.
Other uses:
Sedative, calms nerves, prevents nightmares, stimulates appetite and digestion, eases gout and headache, diuretic, eases delirium

Description: Common or Roman Chamomile, first known as Anthemis nobilis and now called Chamaemelum nobile, is a cultivated perennial growing up to 9 inches in height. Historically used as a ground cover on walkways, stepping on the plant helps propagate it. German or Wild Chamomile, Matricaria recutitia is a 2 to 3 foot tall annual, and is not as fragrant as its Roman cousin.
Both plants have daisy shaped blossoms, gray-green feathery leaves covered with down, and a flavor and scent reminiscent of apples. Roman Chamomile bears twin blossoms and prefers dry, sandy soil. The German variety thrives in rich, moist loam and produces single flowers, considered more potent than their twin cousin. Both strains of Chamomile bloom from late spring through late summer. To harvest Chamomile for teas, cut and dry the flowers when the petals shrink from the flower center.

Poultice: Place Chamomile flower heads in a cloth bag and soak thoroughly in boiling water. Use to reduce swelling of inflamed tissues. (bath bag works in the same manner)

~*~ Triple Milled White Kaolin Clay ~*~

Scientific Name: Kaolinite, silicate of aluminum
Common Names: Kaolin, china clay, kaolin clay

Active Compounds: Kaolinite s ilica, iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium, zinc, minerals.

Background: From Gaolin in the Jiangzi province of China a consistent source of this mineral clay was mined, and so the name kaolin was derived. Kaolinite was first described as a mineral species in the mid 1800s. It is widely used in a variety of processes and added to everyday items. You will find kaolinite in ceramics, in medicines, in cosmetics, as a food additive, in toothpastes, as a diffusing coating of glass items- including lightbulbs. Used in papermaking, Kaolin clay is added to paper pulp and surface coatings where it improves body, color, opacity, and printability. Kaolin is an important ingredient in inks, organic plastics, some cosmetics, and many other products where its very fine particle size, whiteness, chemical inertness, and absorption properties give it particular value. It is the requiste ingredient in porcelain.
It has long been used in natural, organic farming to prevent certain pests from feeding on crops.
Assisting with their digestion and providing much needed minerals, it is sought out by certain parrots of tropical South America, who include it as a part of their regular diet.
Kaolin has been mined in France, England, Germany, the Czech Republic, and in the United States, where the most well known deposits reside in southeastern states. Kaolin is one of Georgia's largest natural resources, with 8 million metric tons mined there every year.
This white powder is insoluble and has excellent absorbent qualities. These qualities in the clay draw out impurities and toxins, thereby clearing the skin of excess oil, impurities, pollutants and other undesired residues.

Applications: A Kaolin clay facial masque will cleanse skin and provide minerals that revitalize cells. Kaolin clay draws out excess oil and pore clogging impurities, leaving skin smooth and soft.
Clay facial masques, poultices, and baths remove toxins directly through the skin (the largest organ of elimination of the human body.) Using glass, pottery or wooden container, (do not use metals) combine bentonite with sufficient liquid to make a paste. Let it sit 2 or 3 minutes. Using fingertips or a wooden or rubber spatula, spread a consistent layer to cover the skin fully (for the purpose of a masque, avoid getting clay in mouth, eyes, ears, nose.) Sit, or lay down, and just relax, clear the mind if possible. Allow the clay to dry. (5 min. for sensitive skin and 10 minutes for normal skin.) As it tightens, it is working and removing impurities. Wash thoroughly and gently to remove the masque. Follow with a natural toner and moisturizer.

Description: A white, porous clay in powder form. Kaolinite is a layered silocate made of alternating sheets of octahedrally coordinated aluminum and tetrahedrally coordinated silicon that are bonded by hydroxyl groups. Kaolinite is represented by the chemical formula Al2Si2O5(OH)4, and it most often occurs as clay-sized, platelike, hexagonally shaped crystals.

Dosage: Experiment with your clay and ingredient combinations to achieve your desired results.
A suggested use: As a masque and skin-pack, can be used topically once or twice a week to begin, then regularly once every 2 to 3 weeks.

Safety:There is no known negative safety issues.

~*~

Bliss Blend Soothing Calmifying Herbal Spa Set

~*~
Ylang ylang
Lavender
Egyptian Chamomile
Triple Milled White Kaolin Clay
~*~

Bliss Blend Herbal Bath Sachet*Contains:
Equal Parts Cosmetic and Medicinal GradeLavender & Chamomile
Triple Milled White Kaolin Clay

Calmifying Essential Oil Blend*Contains:
Ylang ylang & Lavender premium grade essential oils

Rejuvenating, Restorative Mask*
Triple Milled White Kaolin Clay

~*~

100% Pure Natural Ingredients
Absolutely NO Additives or Chemicals of Any
100% Cruelty Free - Never Tested on Anima
Vegan

~*~

Bliss Blend Soothing Calmifying Herbal Spa Kit
Herbal Bath Home Spa Set

Two (2) - Custom Blended Bliss Blend* Muslin Bath Bags 6 x 8" Cotton - reusable
Generously Filled with - 6oz. of Bliss Herbal Blend in each bag.

One (1) - One Oz. Ounce of Calmifying Essential Oil Blend*

Two (2) - Glass Droppers

Two (2) - Oz. Ounces of the Triple Milled White Kaolin Clay -
enough for 2-3 Rejuvenating, Restorative Masks

*Please Allow 2-4 Days for shipment*

~*~
This Wonderful set contains everything you need for several baths & Facial Masks.
I have provided enough of the Calmifying Essential Oil Blend* to use as a wonderful aromatherapy oil, some suggestions for its other uses:

*Use 10-15 drops in a small spray bottle, add distilled water, shake and mist EVERYWHERE!*Use as a body spray, on your linens, in your car, etc..*Use in a clay or any diffuser, for room disbursement
*Put a few drops on your favorite delicate-vintage handkerchief, and tuck into your bra strap for a sensual scenting experience
*Place two drops on a cotton ball and place in drawers and closets for great smelling clothes.

~*~
I custom order every kit/set as I recieve orders for them, to ensure the highest quality and freshness available form my grower.

You may view this active listing for this wonderful kit by the following link:
Bliss Blend Soothing Calmifying Herbal Spa Set

Any Questions? Comments?
I'd LOVE to hear from you. :)
Hope your Weekend is full of Bliss of your own!
xoxo
georgia sakura

2008-05-24T19:28:00.007-07:00

The Little Mushrooms Series

Giveaway !

You could win this Really Cute Limited Edition
Little Mushrooms Embellished Grosgrain Ribbon
I will take the names of those of you who leave a comment on this thread,
write them on a smallish pieces of paper, and add it to my favorite hat.
On Wed. Jun 4th , I will randomly draw one lucky winner!
The winner will receive a Sweet Little Sakura Gift Pack,
including: this Little Mushroom Ribbon, a Sakura Fabric Magnet,
A Fair Trade Pack(Fair Trade Magnet, Fair Trade Button, Info Sheet &
Gift Coupon for Free Shipping at Hand Made * Fair Trade)
All wrapped up with extra special surprises....Good Luck!

Rain Drops & Memories

2008-05-23T19:35:00.005-07:00

It has been a blustery, rainy day here.
Which is so very rare.
Sonoran Desert rare.
I rejoiced with every drop and cloud.
I took the long way home and watched the fluffy grey clouds cling to the tops of the McDowell Mountain tops, and let the rain blow into the car, windows down and played very loud classical music...I felt as though I was flying the wind gusts were so strong.

It reminded me of a time, some 12 years ago when we were on an extended road trip - we had donated and stored all we had that wouldn't fit into our truck and set off to find ourselves,
many nights of coffee shops and days of walking through forests where big clusters of mushrooms and wild raspberries grew, we found ourselves in a place called Forest Hills, where we stayed and found a job tending to a ranch. We had to drive a good stretch of road into town, I would drive windows down and listen to the original gospel recordings of Aretha Franklin very loud.
After such a drive I penned this poem:

The mist rises

And mingles among the pine

And oak

Deep valleys with water trickling

Into little creeks like the earths veins

Here there grow mushrooms

Found in patches under damp leaves

Trees flocked with green moss

Covering limbs

Of the twisted reaching oak

The clouds thick only letting

The sun in enough to

Make all the land grow

In its warmth for a time

Rain comes down

A shower

Baptizes the land

~

georgia sakura

I hope you have a special memory that you can recall and allow yourself a moment of reflection,

and if you do not have any such memories, maybe you should think about making some.

Our lives are made up of layers of memories and experiences, thank you for allowing me to share

one of mine with you...

2008-05-22T23:47:00.002-07:00

I long to be like

The imperfect - perfect strokes of nature

Old tree bark

Slowly layered

With time

And subtle color

Such honest ripples

Of earthy coverage

I look at my skin

Soft and damageable

Pale supple

So delicate

My seedling frame

Seems to sway with

Any slighted wave

Of air

I crave sun and rain

Needing to put down my roots

They are slowly moving down

Earth is comforting

While birds court and nest in my

Newly budded branches

georgia sakura

2008-05-22T23:02:00.000-07:00

I'm Dreaming in Turquoise...