Recovering

I had a few days of rather tumultuous emotion last weekend but I'm feeling much better now. My circumstances really haven't changed. The bathroom is not finished yet, but not for lack of effort, just waiting for that pesky tile adhesive to cure before we can move forward with the grout and toilet reinstall. I still don't have a source of steady income, otherwise known as a job. I'm still waiting to be paid for 3 veteran interview events. So why is my outlook better? Simple matter of perspective. I am trusting that the world will bring me to the path I'm supposed to follow when it is time. Until then, all I can do is try to be prepared for a number of things. I'm still struggling with that darn resumé but it will come together eventually. I am actively looking for a job although I'm still a little unsure about what kind to search for. As a coordinator or administrative assistant, I stand to make more money but I would likely have to contribute more energy and time to not only the job search but then learning whatever industry I wind up in. Nicki's advice (and I have thought the same thing, doubtfully, many times) that I should just get a job to keep the lights on but that is not necessarily a "career" kind of job, like a coordinator would be. That would be easy enough unless you are trying to earn an actual living wage. minimum wage or anything less than double that is not really enough to sustain. It's like getting paid part time wages for full time hours. Wish me luck!

In other news, I have successfully launched my very own website at aswope.net. I think it's looking pretty good if I do say so myself. I'm happy with the new template I chose. The colors are nice and subdued, the window seems to be of good size, and it's pleasing to the eye. I'm really learning a lot about it and it's coming along nicely. I can't wait for the day when I can design my own page from scratch.

I've decided that I still really want to be a part of the Lancer Marketplace at Lafayette High School next month so I should be fairly busy with that. It's a huge risk but one that I think will pay off. I mean, if I can even sell half of the cards I plan on making, I will more than make my investment money back and will hopefully gather a few fans along the way. Just wish I had more time to dedicate to making more original art. I'm not allowing myself to create anything new until I have a stronger lead on a job. It's rather daunting to think about displaying in front of that many people and the potential for buyers. My fear is that I will look like a novice. It's one thing to be crafty, it's another to elevate your description to fine art. It's not that I doubt my talent or ability, I don't. I know I have both. I just hope that my body of work is large enough and reflective enough of my style to draw people in.

Congratulations to my friend Bridgette who is gaining more and more recognition for her art and her handmade journals in particular. The Tyra Banks show has approached her about using her books in gift bags for specially selected guests on a show they call Luxe Living. Go Bridgette! You can read more about her latest announcement on her blog page or her website.

Now, back to that resumé...