Life is a continuous cycle. I’ve learned this in a lot more ways than I ever thought I could. Some things go on and on, and some are only here for a while.
I’ve been doing the Diva Challenge continuously since #161. This is one of the things I feel compelled to continue, as it tends to spark me creatively. So this week (#347) was no different, although it has taken me a little longer than most. With String Theory, we were quested to create a string by tracing objects we found around our space. The part that took me a while was seeing past the “normal” shapes to find something odd that wouldn’t give me just squares and circles. I found a magnifying glass, a purple jade heart from Guatemala (waiting for a new chain,) and my mini metal ruler/compass thingy (part of a set from the Charles Williams Co. that I really dig.)
The paper has a bit of purple in the background (I keep tiles by my work station when I watercolor or use ColorBurst and use them to “mop up” what remains on my craft mat, making instant backgrounds.) This was a bit of watercolor paper, so it was nice to tangle on too! I did my shading with a Carbothello chalk pencil (Santa brought me the full set for Christmas this year!)
Speaking of beginnings…I am really looking forward to hosting the Southern California Zentangle Teachers on the 27th. I have a really fun project for us, and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with on this…sneak peek of Peeking Hearts!
I’ve been meditating on my sewing machine this past week, working on a special gift. Sewing and quilting is another one of those things that has been a constant in my life, and I know I can always come back to it when I need it.
Lots of progress has been made, and I am rather pleased with the cheery nature of this one!
I’ve been working diligently on getting some things wrapped up, framed and priced out, too, for what is in the ending stage.
I am closing the shop May 31. This has been a difficult decision, and not one I took easily. I am a pretty introverted person and I have never been good at being in the mix of things (I thought I could change that, but alas, it just made me more stressed.) Taking this action feels like a huge weight has been lifted from me, and I can breath again!
But, never fear, there is an ongoing thing or two that will remain. I will continue to have the online store, and I will continue to teach classes, both at my home and a variety of other locations. I do love sharing what I know with you all, and will continue to do that, through my blog.
What that means, in the meantime, is a HUGE SALE. I don’t feel like moving everything, so starting now, everything is 10% off. Use the discount code FEB10 in the online store. This is limited to stock on hand, and I am working diligently to make sure that all the inventory is up to date. Even the art on the walls, and most of the furniture is going. (And no, my paper cabinet is not on the auction block…lol.) There are some great deals to be had, keeping in mind I never had anything listed at full price to begin with!
While this may seem like an end, I feel like it just the beginning of a new chapter!
Happy January from Southern California!
CharKat's Creative Insanity 
Good for you! It sounds like you will keep blogging, so yay! Maybe, instead of a store you can craft your own weekly challenge. Looking forward to seeing you soon!
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Oh CharKat……your tile for the challenge is spectacular! I love what those found objects gave you for a string. Great way to break out of your comfort zone 😁. I am a quilter as well and I have to say that your color choices for your quilt are awesome! I’m wondering if the raspberry colored fabric you have laying across the top of your block is for sashing or for a border…..I’d love to see a pic of what the finished quilt looks like. I really like the block.
As for closing your store…it definitely sounds like this was the best decision you could have made based on your response once your decision was made. Kudos! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Happy Tangling and have a great weekend! ♥️😊🙇♀️✍🏻🐌
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The fabric pictured is probably going to be a sashing, maybe even the binding. I will be posting more progress pictures as I finish parts!
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Char – sorry to hear you are closing your store. I know this has been a big decision for you. I hope the lessening of the stress enables you to enjoy life more fully. Love the tiles you create.
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Really like the tile for the challenge. Can only imagine how difficult a decision it was to close the shop. Good luck with what ever you continue doing.
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Sorry to hear you’re closing the store. I enjoyed meeting you and taking a Zentangle class with you. Totally understand about being an introvert and wish you continued success with whatever you do.
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