April 2011

Online Sales EXPLOSION!

357Cedric Sock MonkeyI hate to go on and on about how my busy life is but I really have just been keeping my head above water these past few months. When I start to think that the calm is almost here another wave of busy strikes and I continue treading water.

I admit that my career is a priority. Design comes first, because with design comes a steady paycheck. I also admit that my online "hobby" has suffered because of my career. My blog is, as you have probably noticed, not as

My Atomic Ami

Another school year is over.

Even though teaching brings an element of insanity to my already hectic schedule, I always miss the interaction with my students and their unique and enthusiastic approach to design when it's over.

The last day of class seems fairly anti-climactic considering the struggle, hard work and effort that goes into teaching a class – and participating in a class. I know that my students are with me for only 4 months but I really do feel that it is worthy of celebrating. A fairwell of sorts, a bon voyage into their future – may it be as bright and successful, positive and creative as you all dream it will be. Most of these students I will never see again. But every year there are a handful of students who continually pop up. Some from 3 or 4 years ago still email to tell me of their successes, where they are now and where they hope to go. Some ask for my advice on some of the tough decisions they encounter in the working world. And some just send a note to share a small victory with me. These are the moments that light me up. Not that my ego pretends these triumphs have anything to do with me but that they remember me and know that I am interested in hearing every detail.

This year one of my students had come to me for advice during the semester. I had helped her like I have helped so many. On the last day of school she handed me a small rabbit that she had made to thank me for spending a few extra minutes with her. It turns out she too is a crafter and her shop is Atomic Ami. I must admit I was blown away.

When I got home I checked out her site http://www.atomic-ami.com/ and it's wonderful. Her and a friend crochet cute all day long. They have an on line shop and sell to stores in Toronto. 

My little Atomic Ami is the sweetest little guy and I have added him to my collection of cute. Baby Monkey is also a big fan. Thanks Jessica for this thoughtful gift. He has come to a good home.

356Baby Monkey and his Atomic AmiBaby Monkey and his Atomic Ami

 

http://www.atomic-ami.com/

http://www.atomic-ami.com/post/4612116003/for-my-prof-saskia-who-has-hel...

The Hungarian Culture Club Spring Craft Sale.

I woke up early, threw everything in the car and hit Michelle's house by 8:00am. Today we are driving to Oshawa for my first craft show of 2011. The Craft Show is taking place at the Hungarian Culture Club and I have been told that it is all about the food. The sun is shining, we have coffee, it's going to be a great day.

349End of the road

We turn off the highway into Oshawa and immediately we get lost. We have to double back and wind up driving slowly down a quiet street towards empty lots and