Happy Victoria Day weekend, everyone!

(Posted “on the road” via my smartphone…)

Well, on April 22, I was reading one of Jenn’s posts, and I fell head over heels in love.  It was so bright, and happy, and just made me grin instantly.  Could there be any more polka dots?  And it would look so pretty on my office wall, just above my desk — a gentle reminder and cheerer-upper all rolled into one.  At 3.5″ x 2.5,” it would only add to my creative space, not overpower it.

So I did some mental math regarding my budget, took a deep breath and headed over to Etsy.  A few clicks later, and it was mine!  It was the first time I had bought something from Etsy without a) it being a gift for myself from someone else, and b) it being local artist and now friend Jessica Doyle.  I was beyond excited, as you can imagine.

Since my new little treasure was coming from Texas, I had a week or so to anticipate its arrival.  Where would I put it, exactly?  The temptation to carry it everywhere for a week was intense!  I kept looking at the picture over and over again, trying to decide exactly what it was that had entranced me in the first place.  And then it hit me: I could have done this.  This little painting was created by someone like me, someone who likes to create beautiful things that make people happy.  I was going to hold something in my hand that had been created from part of a stranger’s day, and by buying it, I was saying, “You made me happy without even knowing me.  Please — keep doing what you’re doing.  It’s all good!”

And then it arrived, carefully packaged from the outside in.  I could hardly wait to open it, this little present to me.  The beautiful little painting was wrapped in cellophane with turquoise shredded paper and a vintage milk cap liner, and in with it was a gorgeous thank you note, and a sweet blank card featuring more of Jenn’s artwork.  I was completely and totally filled with child-like glee!

So here I am, sitting in my office, holding up my new treasure.  I look like a complete dork, but that’s because I couldn’t stop giggling with joy.  I mean, seriously.  How awesome is it that I have something I saw on a blog now in my office, giving me inspiration and joy?

I have decided that, once every couple of months as finances allow, I will try to go through the items/sellers I have marked as favourites on Etsy and make a purchase.  Not only will I be adding something I love to my “inspiration space” in my office, but I’ll be helping someone else’s dream soar, too.  And really — isn’t that what we’re all here for in the first place?

Thank you, Jenn!  I absolutely love my little painting, and can’t wait to see what you create next!

(Posted “on the road” via my smartphone…)

(Posted “on the road” via my smartphone…)

(Posted “on the road” via my smartphone…)