Looking Back, Looking Forward

Like most of you, it is a time of reflection for me as the year is coming to a close. I've weathered a difficult year for business and have had a major loss in my life. I am finding that it can take a very long time to settle an estate, realize that someone won't be coming home and understand that there are many more changes than I could have ever thought. My wee folk are the balance to difficult days. I am most honored with emails and calls that tell me that they make you smile also

As I look back at the body of what I have created this year, I am thinking as I do every year... just how am I going to go beyond this???? Somehow, something sparks my interest or grabs my attention and I am right back in front of the drawing board, working out an idea. I am always amazed at what I come up with; happy to inspire and be inspired. This is my passion and what I was born to do. There isn't a button to push and stop this crazy carousel of creating. I have been making art for as long as I can remember and realize that it won't just end at a given year when I am supposed to retire. It is a drive... a calling.

I am fortunate to be able to embrace kindred brothers and sisters. I'm ever humbled to think that so much of my work is a treasure for someone. A Santa or perhaps a Pumpkin witch, carefully packed away in some one's holiday boxes to decorate their homes and their lives. My heart smiles when I receive a photo of these wee folk, so that I can see them living happily and cherished in their home. There is no greater gift than to see a love connection in some one's eyes as they are drawn heart and soul to these little ones. Over 100 of my friends have been adopted this year...in a most difficult financial year for so many of us. I am stunned.

The New Year brings so much anticipation for all of us. We will look ahead with all goode things in mind. I know I am excited for the journey I am headed on. I know that there will not be great happiness without tears. I also know that I have goode friends and family ready to link arms and move forward. My work will continue and on a broader scale. You may see my designs in a gift store or at a friend's home. It may not shout out, "designed by Stacey"... but you will know. You will see the same spirit in the drawing or recognise a few of my friends in a different media. I am happy to grow and to share what gives me the greatest pleasure with all of you. I am most of all, thankful to have the opportunities to do this.