MY ADVENTURE
I reinvented myself 5 years ago when I was 68 and what an adventure it has been. For some people an adventure could be caving, mountain climbing, traveling, tantric sex, cooking, canoeing, hiking and more. My adventure has been in the realm of BEADS, all kinds of beads. I never knew there were Druk , Vintage, Czech, Lampwork, Crystal, Sea Glass, Seed, Bugle, Semi-precious, Glass & Picasso beads, just to name a few & impress you with my acquired knowledge.
SO MANY BEADS
Over these past 5 years I have amassed hundreds (I hope not thousands) of beads & have turned my dining room into my storage & working studio. I bead almost daily, love working in natural light & if you ask anyone who has ever tried beading they will agree that it is addictive .In addition to these gorgeous beads there are many types of findings, clasps, wire, metals, tools. I think you get the point & so no need to try to impress you with how much I have learned & acquired
WHAT ELSE?
When I first started beading I had no plan, no goals, just wanted to make beaded jewelry. Selling & marketing became another adventure to learn & I HAD TO conquer my reluctance to use a computer. Now, I can’t imagine not being on my PC every day for 3-5 hours. Oh Yes, I made it into a business.
MAKING MONEY?
I am often asked if I am making any money. I keep records with organized files, folders, receipts & documents for IRS & NYS sales tax people. Recently hired an accountant who gently suggested I resist more bead purchases, create from inventory & if I keep to the plan, could turn a profit. Talking to a declared shopaholic, this is not easy!.
OTHER SKILLS
Once computer technology became less elusive, I had to take on improving my photography skills. Yes, that too. Armed with a point & shoot, I depend heavily on photo editing tools. My age continues to advance as my interest in setting up outdoor craft shows diminish. Given the future is over the internet, I am moving more in that direction, however I will not stop being a vendor at indoor craft fairs. I would miss meeting my customers face to face & learning about your preferences, styles & jewelry needs.
A BLESSING
It has been very cathartic & enlightening to write about my adventure into beading. Daily I thank the universe for presenting me once again with challenges, giving me the courage & opportunity to grow. If beading is a creative expression & passion for you, then go for it. It’s never too late to start again!
Comments 6
you constantly inspire me…I am thinking of blogging!
Author
Kathleen, it is a great way for YOU, yes YoU, to communicate the importance of Breath Work & all your other wonderful thoughts about living life. Go for it!
Thank you for your honest and passionate insight into beading. Its interesting also to hear how a (fellow) entrepreneur develops both their craft as well as the business of getting their passion into the hearts and hands of others. You remind me of this quote.
“There are two days that justify the profession I exercise:
The day I get an idea and the day I cross paths with a stranger wearing one of my creations – Coralie Charriol”
Thanks, Roz. 🙂
Author
Oh Suzanne, I so love that ‘you got me” I LOVE this quote & will hold on to it for future reference. It has happened twice thus far. Thanks!
Roz,
I am so proud of you! I just saw the post on FB–I didn’t realize that you had your blog up and running. It’s just great. You continue to be an inspiration!
xoxo
Author
Yes Cathy, I eventually took your coaching & am sharing my story, my journey into beading. My blog posts have been infrequent but I’m up to # 8. I love all the support & encouragement. It is challenging to find the right images that fit the content, to express my passion for continual learning & growth & to do all the other tasks related to running & marketing a business as a solopreneur, & create great pieces of jewelry for women like you, me, for the working woman, gifts for moms, for everyone! But I have a mission “It’s never too late to start agin”.