Never a Dull Moment...

Funny how life goes... one day you think you have it all figured out and the next thing you know, it all changes.  I'm not sure, but I think the quote is, "Life is what happens while we're busy making other plans".  That certainly fits.  You don't know it, but if you keep reading you are going to end up on a journey with me.  I don't really know where we're going yet, but I do know that it will be interesting! 
I am at the beginning of my career as a "professional handweaver".... or "artisan"... or whatever other appropriate label you might like to use.   I've been a weaver, knitter, and spinner for over two decades.  Lord!  That makes me sound old!   I sure don't feel that way, though, and I'm not.  I am excited about the future of this endeavor.  I love making textiles, and I've had success in selling them over the years.  People generally seem to like the things I make.
So, why am I here, writing this blog?   Well, I'm reading a book.  Books are another love, so I expect that I will be talking about them on here, too.  I'll try to keep it related to textiles as much as possible.  The book I'm reading is The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin. I'm including a link because, honestly, I think it's an outstanding book. I've started other businesses, read other "starting your crafts business" books, and watched other family members start businesses, plus I have a degree in business, so I'm no stranger to this stuff.   This book, however, is one of the best I've read so far on starting a business specifically focused on craft.  And, this book is why I'm right here, right now, writing to you ~ she strongly recommends blogging.   I never in my wildest dreams thought I would ever write a blog. Really. I find myself interested in and inspired by others' blogs, and never thought I would find myself writing one but here I am.  She (and all the others that contribute) knows what she's talking about, so I'm doing it. 
Ok, so that's the reason I'm writing the blog.  So, what I am doing to start this business?  Well.... right now I'm building inventory (ie:  weaving!) and getting both my Etsy shop (http://www.etsy.com/shop/KarenASmith) and this blog up and running.  And trying to get my workroom organized.  Designing!  And creating inventory for an art fair that I have committed to attend in November.  I'll post more info on that as the time gets closer.
I've been away from weaving due to other commitments for a couple of months now, but have spent the last two days in the workroom organizing, getting inspired, and warping the loom.   The warp that is currently on the loom will grow up to be coordinating napkins for a set of cotton placemats I wove last fall.  I'll post pictures somewhere where you can see them when they're done.  Projects on deck:  'French - country' inspired yellow, blue, and white checked kitchen towels; what I'm thinking of as "the husband towel" in ketchup red, mustard yellow, and brown (think about it....); and a lightweight rayon scarf in blue and pink.  I'll keep you posted. 
Well, that'll do for a first post.  I plan to update this at least once a week so we'll chat again then!   Until then, be safe and God bless!