Kelly Rae Roberts's Blog, page 67

a little rough

Florida skyHi friends,
We arrived home yesterday after an emergent trip to Florida. We've been there the last many many days helping to care for John's very dear and beloved granddad.

(Bella with a 5mos old baby True earlier this year)While we were gone, our sweet Bella dog (11 yrs old) had an emergency of her own which required that most of her tail be amputated. Bella has severe bleeding disorder (similar to hemophilia) and surgery, even a simple one, is a big big deal that requires plasma transfusions, etc.
It's been an intense couple of weeks.


When we arrived home from FL we found a surprise Santa on our porch along with Christmas lights decorating the outside of our house. Turns out, my lovely parents wanted to cheer us up and surprise us with a bit of joy. True loved it and we are now officially one of those neighbors with blow up Christmas decor. HILARIOUS!!! There is something about having a baby that makes me love Christmastime even more.

I am incredibly thankful that my parents are nearby. It's only been a few months since they moved here and our lives have changed so much because of them. They help us so very much with the baby, with the house, with food. Sometimes I'll come home and find a flower cut from the yard and put in a little vase, or the dishes put away, or the laundry folded, or our favorite chocolate banana bread fresh out of the oven - all little, but such significant things that help and do not go unnoticed. Feeling really blessed.


It seems impossible that our baby is now a 14 month old toddler. He is so smiley, so sweet, and just the cutest little man. He did great with all the travel and cross country plane rides. Everyone comments on how social he is. It's true. He waves and smiles and reaches out to touch just about everyone who crosses his path. He loves to show off with all of his animal sounds (what does a bee say? a cow? an owl? and so on) and gestures (touchdown! knock, knock! and so on). He just got his 3rd tooth (slow teether) and is currently working on what seems to be several more all at once (yikes!).

It feels a little bittersweet how quickly he is growing. I already miss his tiny baby days and am just so grateful we took all those photos and videos so I can hold them close + remember. You weren't kidding when you said that time would fly by and to cherish these times now. You weren't kidding when you said they grow up so quickly. You weren't kidding when you said that I wouldn't regret slowing down, and spending as much time as possible with him.

And you were not kidding when you said babies are the most joyful, transformative gifts on the planet.

Would love to meet you!

Woohoo! I'll be at the lovely store above THIS THURSDAY + I'd so love it if you came by to say hello. I'll be signing canvases and chatting and visiting with anyone who wants to say hello! Garden Gallery Works will have many canvases and other product for sale and I'll be signing it all. I did a signing for them last year and it was so much fun - totally adore their family and their shop. They go all out with dessert, wine, and festivities and they're situated at an outdoor mall so you can make a day of it - shopping, checking out the Christmas sales, and so on.

Come say hello! I'd love to meet you and say hello!


Things are going quite fast out of the shop! Thank you! I love that these products will be gifted to the special people in your lives! I wanted to give you a quick update:

Many items have sold out (including the calendars, candles, figures, decorative girlies, ornaments, travel mugs, magnets, bookmarks, clocks, journals, and more). Per your request, we've hidden these products from view to make shopping easier and less frustrating. However, it makes our shop look a little sparse!


We've got less than 10 of several of the picture frames. Wouldn't it be awesome to gift a favorite photo (OR A LETTER/NOTE to your friend/family member) inside one of these frames? I love love the idea of a framed note inside a frame :)


We've got less than 10 of most 6x6 canvases which we think are super affordable and perfect for giving and just three of this favorite 16x16  canvas (perfect for the brave girls in your life).

And we've got just a few left of the Hello Courage pillow - another all time favorite product of mine! I think this is the perfect gift for anyone who needs to snuggle with a bit of comfort + courage.

Thanks everyone. As always, I can't thank you enough for your support!
XO,
Kelly Rae

NEW Sponsor Spotlights: Leah Creates, Laurie Coyle Designs, Lexisworks, Bespoken, Cara Harjes, Attic Journals, Liv Lane + Lolo's Laboratory

I like to think of my sponsorship program as a way of playing matchmaker. These weekly sponsor spotlight posts allow me to do just that - play matchmaker between you and some really amazing people who are providing unique and well crafted offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!


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I make websites for creative entrepreneurs (artists, yoga teachers, coaches, etc). My designs are clean and professional, with a whimsical edge. I pride myself in making my clients' personalities truly shine in their web presence. I currently have three website offerings, ranging in price from $750 to $2,950. All are built on the Wordpress platform so that you can manage your content (including a blog!) on your own. I also specialize in e-shops built in Shopify. Additionally, I offer web presence consulting and content strategy so we can make your existing site truly work for you and your business. Come on over and say hello. Mention that you saw this ad on Kelly Rae's site for 10% off a consulting package or Starter Site. Visit me at leahcreates.com.
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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the gardener, chef, nutritionist or foodie in your life? I've got a bushel of paintings, prints and cards featuring fresh and delicious seasonal produce. There's even a set of pick-your-own prints. Yum!

Riding the wave of the slow-foods/locavore revolution, celebrating growing our own food and cooking with simple, whole foods with food-centered art, perfect for adoring kitchens, hallways, living rooms and even bedrooms (who doesn't want to dream about yummy fresh foods?).

I am an artist and mama with a penchant for simple, modern and meaningful design. I live and working on a hillside in South Lee, Massachusetts, dabbling in a variety of media, including painting/drawing, printmaking, fabric sculpture, photography and graphic design.

Things I can't live without: local food, playing with dogs, making art with children and watching the seasons change. Visit my blog here, find current listings and news on facebook and follow me on twitter here. Shop for prints, cards and paintings here.

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Lexisworks is Denver based artist Lexis Krieg. She is constantly drawing inspiration from the ever present Rocky mountains and the bits and pieces of life that inspire her. Lexis has gathered paper snippets and sewing notions from her adventures around the united states, europe and most recently thrift stores and estate sales. This paper obsession is Lexis' main influence in creating her layered collages. Working from her homemade studio, she creates sweet whimsical mixed media artwork that offers the viewer private moments in the midst of a hectic modern life. Be sure to deck your halls this season with Lexisworks' precious and colorful prints, greeting cards and magnets, available at my Etsy Shop. They make timeless gifts for anyone on your list. Stop by my shop in December for a free gift with purchase with code KELLY. Stay up to date with Lexisworks' latest creations at the Lexisworks blog, www.lexisworks.wordpress.com.
************** Attention: Creative Businesses, Artists, and DesignersNeed help communicating your brand effectively, or want to spread the word about your work, just in time for the holidays?
Hi there, my name is Annching and I run Bespoken, a copywriting and communications studio for creative businesses, particularly in design, lifestyle and art-oriented ventures - businesses where aesthetics and style matter. WIth a background in fashion, marketing and brand strategy, I like to describe myself as a word couturier; I dress your vision in words, from head to toe, helping you communicate your message effectively and meaningfully.

I've helped businesses write bios, web copy, product descriptions, and designed marketing campaigns and media kits. This month, give yourself the gift of a beautifully articulated and communicated brand to ring in 2012.

Brand new service: The $99 press release!
3 Days, 5 Q's, 1 Custom Press Release.
Check out the details here.

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i am cara harjes. a few years ago, i left my life as a professional counselor to pursue my most creative parts. during that process, i began painting and learning a new way of life as an artist. my work looks very upbeat and joyful at first glance - and it is - but if you look past the colors and the content, you might see a little sadness and melancholy. to me, this is the best journey we can be on as humans - to find the light in the midst of darkness, but not to deny the darkness itself, for it has plenty to teach us. you can read more of my reflections on my blog www.caraharjes.wordpress.com and you can shop my paintings and prints at www.caraharjes.etsy.com. for the months of december and january, i am offering a special for kelly rae roberts readers! 15% OFF of all original pieces and FREE SHIPPING on all prints when you enter Kelly Rae in the comments section of your order!
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Attic Journals began on a sleepy Saturday morning in 2004 when we happened upon a beautiful tattered book at a San Luis Obispo garage sale. With an immediate need of having a gift for a friend's birthday that evening, we headed home to re-purpose the book and Attic Journals were born.

Attic Journals are made by hand using hard-bound vintage school books and library books that were destined for dumpsters, but given new life in our production studio. Each journal is made to last with approximately 75 pages of 24# paper and a sturdy wire binding. Truthfully, we have a special place in our hearts for old cookbooks, hymn books and those funny home repair guides that have fantastic graphics, but we've made just about every book imaginable into a journal… really.

These days we hail from Portland, Oregon– known for it's roses, it's DIY and maybe a little less known for the taco trucks that seem to be taking over every corner on the southeast side. We love it here. You would too.
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Here's your chance to finally shine online!
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Learn from the best and brightest!

Soak up wisdom from 20 superstar contributors including Kelly Rae Roberts, SARK, Amanda Oaks {Kind Over Matter}, Lori Deschene {Tiny Buddha}, and Maggie Whitley {Gussy Sews}.
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~ Lovingly leverage your blog to boost your business, book plan, art shop or other professional endeavors. 

DISCOUNT! Get 10% off the How To Build a Blog You Truly Love eCourse with the discount code KELLYRAE.
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Can't get enough cuteness? Who can? Well, check out Lolo's Laboratory where we're cranking out cuteness by the barrel full. Our new Etsy store contains T shirts, accessories and paper goods that Lolo makes using her original surface designs and patterns. She is now debuting her line of characters called My Imaginary Friends. Her first 6 MIF characters are Diabolical, Hacker, Exhibitionist, Trouble Maker, Artsy-Fartsy and Brainiac. Bite sized, bug eyed beauties...  Get your cute on...

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Big thanks to my sponsors! It takes a lot of courage to create a business from dreams, and I'm honored to highlight their bravery + and their offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!

hopeful spirit

I've always really loved this painting. I video tapped my painting it long ago....


i want to do more of these videos - perhaps 2012 will be the year of painting videos (wouldn't that be fun?) - maybe, oh MAYBE even a painting ecourse? big dreams. speaking of painting ecourses, did you know that my pal flora announced her first painting ecourse yesterday? highly recommend it - here's me gushing about taking one her workshops earlier this year.


Hopeful spirit - that's what it says over her heart. Because that's what it takes to breathe. It takes hope.
XO,
Kelly Rae

happy birthday to do what you love!

Super quick:
The Cyber Monday sale has totally taken us off our little biz tracks. Totally did NOT expect nearly 300 orders in one day. For those of you who placed an order, THANK YOU! Please know that we are doing our best to ship ALL orders as soon as possible. You will receive a confirmation email once your order has shipped with tracking information. Due to family emergencies, our three women team of shipping elves have been reduced to one sweet little one. She is working her little tush off and asks for your dear patience as she sends everything off with the utmost care and attention. Goal is to have all orders that were place on Monday shipped by tomorrow (Thurs) but it might take another day or so. THANK YOU!

My dear partner-in-crime with Hello Soul, Hello Business is celebrating her one year anniversary of her business today. Her business is called Do What You Love and in just a year, she has done amazing things and is on her way to a big bright sky of serious abundance, both in her own life and what she is offering to others by supporting the souls of the world to do what they love.

The other nite I was reading through Beth's private journal entries that share the evolution of her biz. I was SO STRUCK by how similar our paths have been. Although she just celebrated year one of her biz and I just celebrated year five, and although our offerings are different, what the same is this: the very real sense of possibility, the leaps to make things happen, a determination to be professional yet kind, but most importantly a somewhat untangible notion and belief that what you put out there as an intention is wholly possible with hard work, support, and the passion to do it - whether you know what you are doing, or not.

I often think about a journal entry I wrote in 2005, just before discovering my passion for art:
ever have that feeling that you are just going to bust at the seems with happiness, anticipation, and inspiration? like you are on the edge of something great? like you are about to make a grand discovery. and it just might be inside of you, in your heart, in your hands, in your vision? i am feeling like that right now and i am going to pay attention to it this time.

This is the thing, that feeling, that hard describe inner whisper that holda the soul and the spirit of what is to come, what can be born, what is possible. When reading Beth's journals, I recognized much of myself in her - not necessarily what she's doing, but her why - the spirit of it, and how it all unfolded well before she actually started her biz, well before she even knew why she was being called in the direction that she is now headed. As my own journal entry suggests above, it's a feeling, a holding of possibility, a prelude to what is to come.

I find is so comforting and amazing that our lives unfold in such ways - that we feel things ahead of time before we could ever know what is on the horizon. I suppose we have to know that the horizon is there, we have to have the sense of that kind of possibility before anything can manifest. The trick is paying attention to it and not letting go.

The two of us being silly - photo by Tiffany Kirchner-Dixon
Beth and I have been both surprised to find ourselves doing what we're doing. But now that we have these business that unfolded with a bit of divine intervention, and now that we're steering them with much practical knowledge under our feet, we're both deeply interested in and committed to keeping the original soul (that undefinable thing that led us to this place) of our businesses alive. Turns out, that undefinable thing is actually quite definable - something we've uncovered in our hours and hours of skype calls talking about it! We'll be helping our students define it for themselves in our upcoming ecourse. And once it's defined, we'll dive deep into the practicallities of running a biz that starts with soul, embraces beauty, and results in profit. We are seriously excited.

All of this is to say that I am so proud to be working with Beth. SO proud to celebrate the one year anniversary of her biz today. And so proud to be partnering with someone who so totally gets it and whose own biz is thriving in ways that mimic my own beginnings four years ago - it's quite special and awesome to see. And I can't wait to see how our collaboration inspires other businesses to flourish. Nothing gets me more excited than seeing others succeed - the world needs more of us doing what we love and flourishing while doing it.

a love letter. a dramatic love letter.

(available here)
Whoa. Yesterday's Cyber Monday sale was a huge success. Like, huge, beyond words, whatjusthappened success. Thanks to all of you who follow me on facebook and twitter for putting up with my all day tweets and status updates!

Here's what I feel deeply called to say: thank you. Please bear with me as I have a feeling that I'm about to sound downright dramatic, but I can't help myself. In preparation for Hello Soul, Hello Business, Beth and I have been doing a ton of talking (marathon skype sessions), reflecting on our own journeys, our own personal stories that have led us to where we are today - not just in biz, but in life - they go hand and hand. Through all of the reflection, what is clear to me is this: without your support, without the encouragement of this specific community, without the buoy of you, this life, this hand-made, what-in-the-world-am-i-doing, beautiful, chaotic, dream-filled life would simply not be possible.

It's been five years.

Five years of listening, taking leaps, making giant mistakes, making giant decisions, cultivating business skills, unlearning business skills, finding new ways, finding my own way. You have been there all along. You. I could seriously weep. I could weep when I think about how this space has documented every single step - from that first painting to that first art retreat (that changed everything) to that first book to that first ecourse to that first community (tribe) to that first teaching experience to that first licensing contract to that first first website to that first tradeshow and first gallery show and on and on. For those of you who may be new here, scroll down the sidebar for my journey in chronological order.

In between all that biz life, has been life life - the real sweetness of love and how it has been the fuel and the inspiration to create a life (one tiny step and decision at a time) that I count my lucky stars for. This space holds the journey of quitting my dayjob, moving a million times, fears and more fears, triumphs, marriage, having babies, friendships, family, trauma, grief, and the details of a life in progress, a life unfolding.

And through all of that, you have been my witness. Thank you, thank you so much.

(newish painting, available here)
The other nite as I was falling asleep, I placed my hands on my heart and the tears came quietly. They were tears of exhaustion (because in between all the biz life happenings around here lately, there have been some intense life life around here as well). But the tears were also of deep wide gratitude. I am unendingly grateful to you - for being a witness, and for supporting me and the work I do.  By supporting me, you are seeing me. And being seen, friends, is perhaps the greatest gift of all.

Thank you so much.
Love,
Kelly Rae
[image error]
Quick shop update:-Per your requests, we've hidden all the sold out products to help decrease frustration and make shopping a bit more easy and fast. 
- There are less than 10 of the following products available (get em' while you can!): most wall canvases, all iphone skins (4g/s 3g), all magnet boards, this awesome pillow, this awesome photo frame, this favorite boxy wall art.

One more thing: It's not too late to be a holiday sponsor! If you're interested in being a sponsor for Dec and having your shop/services/projects highlighted here on the blog and on the sidebar, please send us an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for more info.

TODAY ONLY: 25% off everything. Yeehaw!

In honor of Cyber Monday, we're having a rare sale! Oh yes, yes we are. And it's a good one, friends.


We're in full on holiday mode over here - loving all the orders and support. You guys are awesome. We've run out of stock on several things, but we've still got many options. Here's a quick update:

Signed 2012 calendars are close to selling out. We don't have day planners this year, but the wall calendars are better than ever and we've got two different options. The one above has pockets! 25% off TODAY ONLY!  Enter code: yeehaw!
This calendar comes signed and has its own gift jacket which we love. 25% off TODAY ONLY! Enter code: yeehaw!
I can't tell you how much I love these frames.  Scoop em' up with the sale today...you will not be disappointed. The first round sold out, but we've got another batch in for holiday shopping! 25% off TODAY ONLY! Enter code: yeehaw!

The canvases are best sellers and perfect for gifting. We've got 20 different images, super affordable, and stunning reproductions of the originals. Stock up while you can - all are 25% off TODAY ONLY! Enter code: yeehaw!
 Wouldn't it be awesome if our office spaces had beautiful staplers? Perfect gift for co-workers! 25% off TODAY ONLY! Enter code: yeehaw!  This stoneware piece is much larger than it looks here. One of my all time favorite home decor pieces and at 25% off (today only), I'd love for it to go to a few good homes.  Man, these intention candles still make me swoon. I think they make the perfect, meaningful gift. They arrive ready to gift in a sweet little gift box.  

25% off everything!
TODAY ONLY! 
Enter code: yeehaw!
We're shipping Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays up until Dec 19th when we're closing shop for the holiday break.
Thanks everyone. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your supporting my little ol' shop all of these years (five years! go, shop, go!).

XO, Kelly Rae

Sponsor Spotlights: Superhero Photo e-course, The Word Cellar, Sleep and Her Sisters, Gwynnie B Designs, Experimental Art e-course, Big Dreams. Small Wonders, Lindy Gruger Hanson, NatoBottaArt + Beth Nadler Art,

I like to think of my sponsorship program as a way of playing matchmaker. These weekly sponsor spotlight posts allow me to do just that - play matchmaker between you and some really amazing people who are providing unique and well crafted offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!
Now accepting new sponsorship reservations for the holiday season (Nov+Dec).

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Join Andrea Scher for the January session of Superhero Photo! 
and her brand new course Elevate the Ordinary!

The Superhero Photo course is all about creating a new way into joy, gratitude, and appreciation. Andrea will guide you through 6 weeks of lessons, photo prompts and activities that will transform how you take photos and bring more color and magic into your life.
We will hone our technical skills while opening our eyes to the beauty all around us.We will find ourselves in that sweet spot where creativity, play and aliveness intersect. We will have more access to joy.
The Superhero Photo January Session begins Monday, January 9th. Register today with the coupon code KELLYRAE and you will get a $20 discount!
Elevate the Ordinary begins Monday, February 13th. For those of you who have already taken The Basics (this summer or this fall) please join me for Elevate the Ordinary! A brand new course where we will continue our exploration of making magic out of our ordinary days.

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Calling all writers and "wish-to-be" writers to The Word Cellar. Would you like gentle, useful
feedback on your writing? What about personalized creative coaching? Let me (Jenna McGuiggan) be
a supportive and honest guide along your writing journey.

Here's how it works: You'll email me your work, I'll review it and then send you written comments on what's working, what could be improved, and suggestions on how to move forward. As your writing coach, I'll help you to follow your dreams and find creative clarity by asking questions, listening, and recommending books, resources, and creative practices. We'll meet via phone or Skype to discuss anything related to writing or creativity. I'll serve as your sounding board, cheerleader, nurturer, and brainstorming partner – whichever you need. Whether you need one session or ongoing monthly support, let me know how I can help – and I'll design a custom package just for you and your writing wishes. Learn more or contact me to find out how we can work together.

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My name is Katherine Quinn and I am the New Zealand artist behind Sleep And Her Sisters. I sell my original works to 9 galleries around New Zealand and have three online shops where I also sell originals, prints and other goodies. I live with my two children, 18 year old Hannah, 6 year old Ben and our 11 year old cat... Holly. I work from my kitchen table at our home in the sunny Hawke's Bay where I love to create with paint, chalk pastels, graphite, paper and also dabble in making a little bit of jewellery. At the moment I am working on a project to create 7 sisters... characters that I hope will one day feature in a book. I also love to collect things. My favourite colour is a soft, pale, antique sort of blue.
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It's Thanksgiving and I'm giving big grateful thanks for Dutch apple pie! I love pie almost as much as I love glitter and all things pretty. I'm also very grateful for such a cool blogging community that is full of creative and giving people. So here at the Gwynnie B Designs studio we would like to send Thanksgiving blessings and big yummy thank yous to all of you! And "we" includes me and my four furry studio companions: Louie, Lucy, Bleu Kitty, and Fatso Skinny.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! Now go have some pie...
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Welcoming the new OPEN ACCESS experimental arte-course. As I launch in to year 2 of my art MA I'm offering you the chance to study a wide and inspirational set of art projects too for the next year (instead of 6 weeks). Enroll once and get access to the new site and the whole course to work on at your leisure until October 1st 2012. There's great new links and resources including strategies I've used for the business side of being an artist, including a discount on my brand new e-book: HOW TO MAKE MONEY TO DO WHAT YOU LOVE. Roll up your sleeves and delve in to art and creativity with an online group until October 1st 2012 (sign up ANY time from now!) doing paper sports, collage, painting, drawing, photography and so much more. See what others have said about it here and visit my blog and website.  Come join the party and lets art together! Amelia.x
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Do you know how beautiful you truly are? Are you ready to discover the star in you and live out your dreams in 2012 and beyond?
Join artist & life coach Louise Gale and a community of creative souls to explore and identify your true self, purpose and passion and start living the life you were born to live. Together we will explore – discover - create a hand-made journal full of creative dreams and find the courage in you to be the star you truly are
All designed to help you live your dream life.
The "Big Dreams. Small Wonders" e-course is full of inspiring posts – stories – worksheets - audio, creative exercises and fun planning techniques, empowering you to go from where you arenow, to where you want to be.
You will leave the 6 weeks with a journal full of creative exploration, a clear idea of who you truly are, where you want to go and a roadmap to help you get there.
Be the shining star you are
The2012 journey starts on Monday January 9 and space is limited, so sign up today to take the first step to follow your dreamsYou can live the life you were born to live
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[image error] Greetings, My name is Lindy Gruger Hanson and I'm a peace loving and joyful hearted artist living in the high desert of Central Oregon. My paintings are a way to express my inner vision in what I call my symbolic language. I love color. I love texture. I like to take shapes, lines, textures and colors to create a world from the imagination. Worlds of playfulness and energy connecting each of us to each other. I hope my art can lift your spirit! I have colorful prints for sale in my Etsy Shop and I invite you to see my original paintings for sale on my website. For all Kelly Rae readers, please use discount code kellyrae2011 to  receive a 10% discount  in my Etsy Shop, good through Nov. 31st. And I hope you'll come by my blog and say hi.
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Nato Botto Art is "creations from the heart" by artist Natalie Kelsey. Her art inspires through whimsy, beauty, peace, faith, and tenacious optimism! With equal measure of kindness, patience, gratitude and creativity, she urges all of us to trust the process that leads to the joyful life we are each destined to create for ourselves. Above all, Natalie encourages all of us to nurture the artist within, and to trust that your heart is your compass, follow it!
Visit her etsy shop to find unique, playful, jewelry, accessories, and inspirational works of art--creations from the heart!! Be sure to mention that Kelly Rae sent you and receive a free gift with any purchase. Each item from Nato Botto Art is made purely from joy and arrives to you all packaged up snazzy and ready to give as a gift. For shop news, heart warming stories, and giggles please visit: http:/www.natobottoart.blogspot.comInspiration comes from the most peculiar places...What inspires you?
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I've been drawing and painting for just about as long as I can remember. I never had to decide what I wanted to do, I always knew in my heart that I would grow-up to be an artist. Making people "feel good" through my artwork is very important to me. It makes me happy to know I'm able to do something that creates a difference in the world however big or little. My artwork is colorful, fun, and inspirational and appeals to women of all ages. I describe my style as; Boho Folk. This year several of my prints and art plaques have been featured on the hit new TV show, The Nine Lives of Chloe King! You can browse through my shop here: http://bethnadlerart.etsy.com And please come and follow me on my creative and personal journey here:  http://bethnadlerart.blogspot.com
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Big thanks to my sponsors! It takes a lot of courage to create a business from dreams, and I'm honored to highlight their bravery + and their offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!

to witness + thougths on brave in sadness, brave in love

image credit: here.


I have so many people in my life right now who are experiencing extraordinary heartbreak. Futures are uncertain, lives are lost or drastically changing, new ways of seeing/experiencing the world are slowly being born against a backdrop of complete sadness, confusion, and grief.

It's hard to see a loved one in anguish, but I suppose in some ways it's an honor to witness their strength, their courage, and their unending hope as they make their way through. Their hope and their courage shows that life is still beautiful, even inside the very center of its most challenging, painful moments. I am in awe of them, of their spirits, of their bravery and commitment to simply show up for whatever comes toward them (life) and to see it through the filter of what it is: full of sadness, yet full of beauty. There is room to honor all of it. Because we are human beings, because we are whole, and because life is rich with dimension, layers upon layers of history, love, heartbreak, and courage.

I am in awe of the magnitude of life. In awe of our capacity to handle it. In awe of my many friends and how they are choosing to see the delicacies, the tiniest of beauty (love, compassion, faith) in their hardest of moments while also completely honoring the darker sides of those moments (anger, fear).


I am reminded of the importance to be brave in sadness, brave in love - that we must sit with the wholeness of who we are and what we experience, that we must honor the beauty and the pain, that we can be sad yet grateful, angry yet compassionate, broken yet held in wholeness. This is life. This is what it means to show up. This is what it means to live with an open heart where love and fear are very close neighbors. This is what it means to honor every speck of every experience however heartbreaking. Brave in sadness, brave in love.

I'm so grateful to witness the beautiful lives all around me and the courage that it takes to see + feel, and choose to see + feel both the extraordinary gifts and heartbreak in our hardest of experiences. These lives, these friends, are extraordinary gifts to the intertwining of all of our souls. They are beacons of courage for all of us.

Sponsor Spotlight: Sacred Cake, Life Book by Tamara Laporte, Photo Meditations by Susannah Conway, Stacy Kathryn Art + Illustration, Helena Studios, Pameal Joy Boutique, Seek Your Course + Vintage Inspiration

I like to think of my sponsorship program as a way of playing matchmaker. These weekly sponsor spotlight posts allow me to do just that - play matchmaker between you and some really amazing people who are providing unique and well crafted offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!
Now accepting new sponsorship reservations for the holiday season (Nov+Dec).
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You want the jewelry you wear to be meaningful and expressive. Affordable, but not mass produced. You want your jewelry to be like you…timeless and memorable. One of a kind. How about something a bit different? Something with a history. Something with a story.
At Sacred Cake you will find affordable heirloom quality vintage assemblage jewelry combined with timeless appeal. Whether it is for your wedding, graduation, first date, a gift, or for your everyday victories; look to Sacred Cake for personal service that you can always rely on to exceed your expectations and make you feel as special and as singular as you are.
There is only one you. There is only one Sacred Cake. Every piece tells a story. What will your story be?
*Kelly Rae readers receive free shipping & a special gift. Visit my etsy shop and enter the code "ONEOFAKIND" to receive your free shipping and your gift. I'd love for you to visit my blog for more simple projects, stories and inspiration.

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"Life Book, a celebration and honouring of YOU", is a year-long mixed art class organised by Tamara Laporte from Willowing Arts. She is joined by 15 incredible art teachers who are all gearing up to share their mixed media techniques with YOU! Themed around self-development and healing, you'll be creating a minimum of 2 loose mixed media art journal pages per month (through a minimum of 2 lessons a month) which by the end of the year you will bind into a glorious journal (a Life Book!). This gorgeous book will have chronicled your journey, artistic growth and personal development for the year! Come join the 400+ students who have already joined Life Book on an EPIC year-long mixed media art journey NOW! The course begins on January 1st 2012! (All videos and PDFs can be downloaded and kept – plus there are going to be many extra activities in addition to the 32 lessons you're already getting). Read the WEEKLY year schedule by CLICKING HERE. Come join now! http://www.willowing.org/lifebook.html
Please use the title of the course for the title: "Life Book, a celebration and honouring of YOU!"

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Hello lovely Kelly Rae readers! I'm so excited to share my brand new e-course with you — Photo Meditations: Infusing Your Images with Soul!

Photography is truly one of the great loves of my life, and when I say it is like meditation for me, I mean that quite literally— taking photos calms me and connects me into the moment more than anything else. Photo Meditations is the sort of course I would like to take myself :) It's going to be five delicious weeks of the inspirational and the practical, including: weekly photo theory lessons and assignments, photo slideshows to inspire you, in-depth posts detailing how I shoot, interviews and group connecting in the private Flickr group.

I'll be sharing everything I know about photography in this class, so if you're wanting to sink deeper into your photography and create images that carry more of your heart, please do join me in January!

Registration opens on Sunday December 4th at 11am EST / 8am PST . Class starts Monday January 2nd!

Hope to see you in class!
Susannah xo

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Hi,my name is Stacy Kathryn and I am an artist and illustrator! Creating art hasbeen something I've gravitated towards my entire life. My dream is that myworks find their place in this world, and help others create their own views ofthe world in the movement of the brush strokes, the vivid colors, and theconcepts of life as only art can reflect. This path is an adventure, and I'd lovefor you to join me on it. Check out my blog and website for more art andinspiration.

Be sure to visit my etsy shop, I have all new art pendants and holiday cards available. Since I'vebeen a huge fan of Kelly Rae for the last four years, and love being part ofthis community, I'm offering a special discount to Kelly Rae readers. Justenter the code 'POSSIBLE' at checkout and receive 20% off your order.

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My name is Helena Chutjian mom of 3 amazing kids, 3 sweet rescue critters and wife to my wonderful husband who I have known since I was 10. I am usually covered in wood chips and paint working on my latest carvings, scouring the beach for driftwood to carve, digging in the dirt surrounded by plants and flowers, and just about always, with my daughter Hope by my side.
After moving up and down the east coast as a Marine Corps family, we now call Beaufort home, a historic little town by the sea and an endless source of beauty and inspiration.
In my folk art shop you'll find hand carved Santas, snowmen and gnomes, birds and ever changing art.To Kelly Rae's loyal readers, please take 20% off of your purchase at my shop by using the code kellyrae.
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"Your Art on a Handbag"Pamela is a visionary and works tirelessly to bring it forth. She is motivated, hardworking and dedicated to helping you take your art and put it on a purse, clothing, cards etc., however you'd like to sell it. Pamela is "on the move" to "make things happen". Her belief is that a person can make his or her dreams come through, with a little hard work and a whole lot of fun!
Pamela is on a continuing effort to help other women start their own businesses and make their dreams a reality. By promoting a "Women helping Women" theme throughout her business plan, she hopes to create new ideas in order to help women become independent.
Pamela Joy Boutique Inc. features purses and clothing for UNIQUE Women who like "One of a Kind" fashion. These purses are intricately made and feature a variety of interesting designs. The clothing are made with the idea of combining comfort and style, as each article of clothing has its unique flair and allows the woman to function stylishly in "Her World".
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Do you want to live a creative life but don't know where to start?Do you live a creative life but need help staying in-the-know?Do you teach creative living and want to promote yourself?
Seek Your Course makes all that possible.
Seek Your Course  is a database and online hub for connecting people with creative learning opportunities online and around the world.
* Through the Listings you can find ecourses, retreats and conferences with an art focus.* Through Instructor and Retreat/Conference Profiles you can meet the artists and learn more about the events.* Through the SYC Blog you can be inspired by interviews, book recommendations, guest posts and much more!* Listings on many topics including: painting, drawing, blogging, entrepreneurship, encaustics, life coaching, photography, personal growth, and writing.
Come check it out: website | twitter | facebook
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"Vintage Inspiration" came to life in 2007 the result of one of those brainstorms you have on a rainy day, created by myself and my two sisters, we wanted to offer an online "vintage style" accessible to anyone with a taste for something individual, home-made and a "little bit different".
We also wanted an outlet for our passion for making things, as well as emphasising a responsibility to the environment. So as well as a place to find carefully selected vintage home wares accessories and small pieces of reclaimed furniture you can purchase goods we have made at home, all of which are designed by us and are "made with love" with many of the materials reclaimed. So please visit www.vintage-inspiration.co.uk to find those special things you can't get any where else.
We are offering 15% discount to Kelly Rae cusomers using this code LR707.
***************Big thanks to my sponsors! It takes a lot of courage to create a business from dreams, and I'm honored to highlight their bravery + and their offerings. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (includes your ad on the sidebar + ongoing spotlights), please send me an email at kellyraeroberts@gmail.com for further information!