“There’s a story behind everything. How a picture got on a wall. How a scar got on your face. Sometimes the stories are simple, and sometimes they are hard and heartbreaking. But behind all your stories is always your mother’s story, because hers is where yours begin.”  

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and as the year came to a close you could look back with a sense of accomplishment.

But if last year wasn’t your best year ever, if it left you feeling trapped by your circumstances, it didn’t give you the opportunity to follow your dreams, or just maybe, it was a fabulous year for you, and you’re simply anxious to see what the New Year has in store – my message remains the same…

We don’t get happy because we’re successful; we become successful because we are happy.

SPREAD YOUR WINGS

My newest artwork was born from this internal debate about which comes first. 

I actually began this piece more than two months ago.  I just finished this past weekend.  It took me quite a long time to explore how I wanted to convey the inverse relationship between success and happiness and how it’s related to hope.

What this exploration has taught me can be simplified by saying that I think true happiness comes from contentment for what is now with an acceptance of what was, while hope gives us the opportunity to wish for what could be.

So, before I started my initial sketches, I knew the work would be based around the beautiful hummingbird.  I’m not the type who works and watches what unveils.  My ideas usually come in dreams (or the shower – okay – mostly the shower) and I usually see the finished piece.  The extended effort for me comes in trying to make the artwork look like what first appeared in my mind’s eye.

But the hummingbird was more than a passing thought, it was based on the need to express the many symbolic meanings of this special creature and how I could portray it in a way that illustrates the personal pursuit of happiness.

It is said: 

By observing the hummingbird, we see they are tireless. Actively searching for the sweetest nectar, they remind us to forever seek out the good in life and the beauty in each day. Amazing migrators, some Hummingbirds are known to fly as many as 2000 miles to reach their destination.

This relentless quality reminds us to be persistent in the pursuit of our dreams, and adopt the tenacity of the Hummingbird in our lives.

ANTICIPATION  

The New Year symbolizes the beginning of a better tomorrow.

Today is the day we have hope for our future. That’s what I love about this time of year.

Right now, most people are moved by the universal feeling that anything is possible.  And considering the fact that Sugarluxe was founded on this principle, I’m partial to this particular holiday.

Every year, I spend a week contemplating the idea about recapping all of the highlights of my past 12 months. 

Many blogs do it, and since I don’t get to write as often as I’d like, I miss the chance to share a lot of exciting experiences.  Maybe one day I’ll hire a dedicated PR person, but until then, I prefer to just keep working hard and hope I don’t need a lot of hype to keep it going.

Point being, it happens every time.  I never recap my year.  Instead, I tend to be a forward- looking person.  It’s important to learn from mistakes, and absolutely, celebrate past milestones. But all around the world, regardless of your race or religion, together, we are ringing in a NEW YEAR…

That means every single one of us has the chance to look ahead with anticipation.  No matter what happened last year, now is the time we invite opportunity and embrace optimism.

364 MORE DAYS

Here’s a real resolution I present for your consideration during the coming year:  Try to look at each day like it’s New Year’s Day. 

It’s so typical that we start of the New Year with unrealistic resolutions that we likely can’t keep.  And then the disappointment sets in, sadness ensues, and we beat ourselves up when we don’t lose weight, when we don’t make more money, when we don’t get out of debt, or when we didn’t get that new house, new job, new car, new relationship… aaaaaaaaaaaaauuuugggghhhh… the list goes on and on…

Today is NOT the only day that we can wake up with hope and happiness.  We have 364 more days a year to do that. 

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

We make resolutions with the idea that achieving them will make us more happy.  But few succeed with their resolutions and end up feeling anything BUT.

Why is happiness so elusive?

First, it’s because we’re conditioned to think happiness is something different than it really is – like you need to be bursting with joy all day long. 

But the most useful definition – and it’s one agreed upon by neuroscientists, psychiatrists, behavioral economists, and even Buddhist monks – is true happiness is more like feeling satisfied or content than “happy”. It has depth and deliberation to it.  And it takes concerted effort and commitment.

BE CONTENT AND STRIVE FOR MORE AT THE SAME TIME. WHAT?

It’s a complex emotional oxymoron, really.  How can we reconcile these seemingly disparate thoughts?

Well, I firmly believe that we must be thankful for what we have now.  Not to get caught up in semantics, but if the word contentment gives you the feeling that you don’t want to strive for more, perhaps acceptance is a better word.  Acceptance of the past and some level of satisfaction with what we’ve achieved thus far. 

Should we want more?  Sure.  Is that normal?  I think so.

But until we feel happy with what we have, how can we expect to be given more?

In other words, without the adversity that has caged us in, how can we fully appreciate when the door opens and we break free? 

So, today, the first day of this HAPPY NEW YEAR, I’m sharing my latest Sugarluxe work with hope that the coming year opens doors for us ALL and that we take every opportunity to fly high!

What will you do when the door opens for you?

Have you heard the news?  It’s our LAST day of the Pick Your Favorite Art Print Holiday Giveaway! 

If you follow Sugarluxe on Facebook or Twitter, you’ve likely seen that all December long, we’ve been giving away great gifts.  It’s just my way of saying THANK YOU for all the years of support and friendship.

For me, nothing feels better than playing Santa.  It warms my heart to be able to reach out, give FREE goodies and show you how much I appreciate your business.

The drawing of the WINNING name will take place right before midnight tonight – December, 18th, 2011.  So, if you have yet to participate, you still have just a bit of time left.

Entering is super easy, too.

Simply comment, like, share, RETWEET, place on Pinterest, blog about it, or do what you can to spread the word. 

In the face of so many businesses who have not survived, all of the overseas outsourcing, and the competition posed by big box stores, your help in talking about Sugarluxe with your friends and family goes a long way in supporting a business with manufacturing in the USA, a female owned and operated company, further job creation, and our economy.

I just can’t say it enough, it means everything to hear your feedback, make your orders, and read your comments.  It helps me grow, both as an artist and business woman, and for that, I try very hard to exceed your expectations at every turn.

So let’s get to it:

PICK YOUR PRINT -

I want someone to win a SIGNED SUGARLUXE ART PRINT right before Christmas!  The best part is – you get to choose your favorite!

Head on over to the Sugarluxe Archival Art Print Gallery to make your selection.

BEACH HEAVEN  

Summer is almost over. But I never stop day dreaming about tropical vacations.  Sunshine and swaying palm trees provide me peace of mind.  

But beneath the vibrant surface in this latest piece, lies something so sorrowful.  It was made with ten million tears.  

Coming into creation at a point that I now, only half jokingly, refer to as my Blue Period; this beautiful bikini clad girl sips an ice cold martini along side her favorite one-legged pink flamingo…incredibly saddened by the fact that she’s even ALLOWED to drink that martini.  

Sure, she can still rock a grass skirt as well as girls half her age…but she’d much rather be round in the belly, craving more pickles, avoiding alcohol like the plague, and waiting impatiently to welcome her very first baby.  

But she is not.  

That baby is in beach heaven right now looking down on his mama and waiting excitedly for the day they get to build big sandcastles together in the sky.  

PARADISE LOST  

Despite working like a maniac (my coping mechanism) – I had to take a break from this blog.   

It’s so personal and even still, a bit gut wrenching to actually talk about my miscarriage.  But I’ve worked my way through it.   

As an added bonus, I took my first (albeit mini) vacation since my honeymoon 7 years ago.  With the help of so many wonderful friends and fans (literally from around the world) – I came out of this situation filled with hope and ready to try again.  I am so grateful for you.  For all those who took the time to pray for me, write to me, share your stories, lend an ear, and let me cry – THANK YOU!   

True.  Time helps to heal wounds.  But getting to say THANK YOU to those who helped you through tough times also gives a sense of closure.  I always say that gratitude is the very cornerstone of leading a blessed life. 

The way I see it…it’s not that anyone is free from bad things happening or that some people’s lives are more charmed, it’s really in how we view our lives.  How fortunate we feel for what we have.  How much we make out of what we have left, not how much we’ve had taken away.  

Yet, I still have an old gaping wound.  Plenty of time has passed.  But I never got the chance to show my appreciation to the person who helped me survive another tragic moment in my life.  

And since I had my mini vacay this month, it gave me some time to think.  Think about this person I need to thank.  A man I’ve never met before.   

STRANGERS IN THE NIGHT  

Remember when I told you about that time years ago, when I was struck by that hit and run driver?  Well…most people don’t know that in addition to being thrown over a hundred yards into oncoming traffic in the middle of a busy downtown intersection, the driver who hit me also ripped my leg apart.  Have I said ripped apart before?  What I mean by saying ripped APART…is ripped OFF.   

Pulled my leg off of my body.  Not a clean cut, mind you;  torn the way some people tear the wings off a piping hot, roasted chicken.  

And I laid in the street, dying.  Bleeding to death.  Losing so much blood, I can only vaguely remember looking into the driver’s eyes, before he climbed back into his white pick up truck and drove away.  

“STOP!”  I screamed.  Or did I?  Was it only in my head?  Could anyone hear me?   

So much noise and confusion.  I didn’t know what was happening.  The painful burning sensation was exacerbated by this man kneeling over top of me.  He yelled, “We’re losing her!” Who was he?  What was he doing to my leg?   

Later, much later, I learned he was a Capital Metro Bus Driver.  He stopped his city bus.  Rushed to my side, and without a moment of hesitation, took off his tie to use as a tourniquet to stop the blood loss.   

Of course, I didn’t realize any of this until the doctors shared it with me as they were wheeling me into the OR.  The plastic surgeon mentioned in passing that the folks on the scene were also smart and quick enough to find and put my foot on ice.  FOOT – ON – ICE.    

The surgeon was a specialist - called in to reattach my foot to the hundreds of dangling ligaments, nerve endings, and tendons.   

Stunned, I had no idea. But certainly the pain was the most excruciating thing I’ve ever experienced.  If you’ve never had a limb severed, let me save you the trouble.  It sucks.  Don’t do it.

I had two transfusions that evening.  But if it weren’t for the nimble, selfless act of that AMAZING bus driver…I would not be here today.  He saved my life!  

And- I am so thankful for it.  So thankful for him.  Who was he?  What was his name?  

O, LET THIS BE THE YEAR  

It’s no secret that meeting Oprah is a DREAM of mine.  

Whether you’ve known me 15+ years or only just met me…you’ve likely heard me talk about my shero, Oprah.  Yeah, yeah – I mingle with celebrities, young and old, dated a few, and worked with many.  

Gratuitous pic, I know…but it’s still one of my favs (and surprisingly nowhere on this blog, so there!)  

But none of these experiences will compare to the day I get to meet my girl, O.  (wonder if she hates me calling her O?)  

Plus, you know I’m a positive thinker…so who knows…maybe 2010 won’t be such a bust after all.  

Because here’s the deal:  

I’ve gone completely mad.  Today, I wrote to Oprah.  Like millions have done before me, it may not sound like a big deal.  But for me, it’s huge.   

For years, I’ve had well-meaning friends say I should be on the Oprah show, that I should share my story (I’ve always thought in my head - um, who cares about my story?).   

And then when Sugarluxe arrived on the scene, customers would write me saying that Oprah should feature my work (I’ve always thought in my head - um, why would Oprah care about my work?).    

Then when I went to Washington D.C. and fought to get a bill passed, and as one of three people testifying before the Senate in order to impact millions of people suffering exclusion from appropriate health care coverage, lobbyists on Capitol Hill said I should spread the word on Oprah (and I’ve always been like – um, okay, could you have please have the Senator make a call to Oprah and get me on the show?)  

My husband, Bob and I, Meeting in Congressman Ron Paul's Office in D.C.

But the point is, I’ve never proactively made a move to get on the Oprah Show.  When it comes to being in the spotlight, I feel conspicuously nervous.  I’m not a spotlight kind of girl.  

So, when a friend of mine sent me a link this morning telling me that the Oprah Show is looking for people with incredible life saving stories, I suddenly felt a rush of hope, excitement, delight and determination.  

What I realized is this:  

I’ve always imagined meeting Oprah at a shindig, not being a guest on her show.  But when the opportunity presented itself to talk about how my life was SAVED and forever changed because of the selfless act of another human being – our mystery bus driver – I finally knew this was the time to reach out.  I’m the fortunate recipient of the most incredible kind of kindness and that is something I’m VERY comfortable being vocal about.  

So, I wrote in.  Immediately.  

Plus, the contact form is limited to 2000 characters, so I was quick and to the point.  Can you believe it?  Me?  Quick and to the point?   

I have always very much wanted to find this man.  I want to know who he is, I’d love to meet him.  Hug him.  And most importantly THANK HIM for saving my life.  I cry just thinking about it.  I’ve dreamt of that moment my entire adult life.  I need this more than anything.  Well, that.  And a baby.  But that’s not a job for Oprah.  Or is it?  Hmmmm?  

No.  Anyway…  

I must, I tell you, absolutely MUST try to share this story on Oprah and give this man the attention, adulation, and appreciation he so whole-heartedly deserves.  I think the producers could find him, how could they not?  I’ve had no luck, but surely The O Team can do it?!  

And that, my friends, is where you come in.  

LET’S BAND TOGETHER  

I know you’re busy.  You have lives, kids (lucky) or 584 other things happening at once.  Do you really have time to help me out?  Probably not.  But I’m going to ask anyway.  

More importantly, I want to make it worth your while because it will be hard to do it without you.   

Here’s what I think could help:  

Write in and briefly TELL Oprah why you’d like to see this story on her show.  

Maybe my work has inspired you?  Have we been lifelong friends?  Did I give you your first job?  Have I ever made a difference in your life (hopefully)? Do you think my situation is worthy of being shared on national TV?  Whatever the reason, I am reaching out to all my creative, smart friends to ask for your help by writing to Oprah’s producers.  

For this exact casting call, you write here.   

To reach the producers direct, you could write here.  

If we band together, anything is possible.

Are you in?  Will you do it?  What do ya say?

I’ve been anxious and incredibly excited just thinking about the moment that I could finally share the news that I’m eating like a little piglet because…

I AM PREGNANT!!!

As women all over the world get pregnant every day, this might not seem like a particularly special achievement.  But if you know me personally or possibly ever read between the lines on this blog – then you know for me – it is.

Can you believe it’s been almost seven years?  Yes, SEVEN long years of trying, hoping, crying, waiting, praying, and yet, NEVER giving up hope.  Out of all the dreams I’ve aspired to make come true, realizing my dream of becoming a MOM has been one of the most difficult challenges I’ve faced.

JUST A LITTLE PATIENCE

If you’ve ever struggled with fertility issues, then you understand firsthand the sadness that comes from not being able to conceive. Couple that with all of your closest friends having babies during this time and a brother who, without seemingly any effort whatsoever, had FOUR girls…no doubt, there have been days when I could barely handle the heartache.

Although I am pretty good about not showing my internal struggles, perceptive friends could sense my emotional turmoil.  Especially because I’m one of those girls who has always pictured myself as a mom.  I’ve been thinking of baby names since I was five and I think my friends and family would agree – kids respond to me.  Kinda like horses do.  It’s hard to explain, but they both seem to know and trust instinctively that I love them.

It’s why I could never, ever wrap my head around the idea that I wasn’t meant to have my own children. 

Perhaps after waiting that long, most people, or at least less determined ones, would have called it quits.  But I’m a business woman, an entrepreneur, an artist – to make a living this way – means I depend on my self discipline, persistence, creativity and vision to make things happen.   So it was out of the question for me to accept that I was unable to have kids.

Despite appearances, I’m a bit rebellious and always have been. Not in a bad way though (so says me)…but in a way that makes me go against convention, encourages me to be different, never listening to anyone who told me I couldn’t do something, who pays no mind to naysayers, who has been out to prove to the world (and most likely myself) that I could do WHATEVER I set my mind to. 

All it takes is a tremendous amount of faith and just a little patience.

FULL OF POSSIBILITIES

Never think in terms of limitations, only see the possibilities.

Years ago, after I was struck by the hit and run driver who ripped my leg apart from my body, left me lying in the middle of the road, and bleeding to death – I was told, after two life saving transfusions and a nine hour surgery to try to put all the pieces back together – that I would never walk again.

With all due respect to the doctors – I didn’t believe them.

I guess that’s how I felt about infertility, too.

Not to mention, the clinical aspect removed the whole romance notion out of how I always thought I would conceive.  I actually preferred to adopt. Maybe because IVF would have solidified that I had a problem, I don’t know.  Morally, I’m not the least bit opposed, but emotionally, I couldn’t admit that I might need some help.  My extreme independence has always been a bit of a double-edged sword.

So, at the beginning of this year, a new decade, a fresh start full of possibilities – I made a commitment to myself, my husband and my entire family.  I would finally ease up on the 80 hour work weeks and seek the expertise of a Fertility Specialist.

PURPLE BOWS

The first appointment at the Texas Fertility Center was standard issue stuff.  Family history, medical history and my sex life.

The next objectives were to:

1. Get a transvaginal ultrasound.
2. Take antibiotics in preparation for the labs.
3. My husband, Bob would have semen analysis done.
4. I would have blood work done on day 3 of my next period.
5. Then an HSG – a hysterosalpingogram – which I still don’t know how to say.  This was scheduled for day 10 of my next cycle.

The ultrasound was first. 

It was a cold winter morning, so I wore my tall black leather over-the-knee boots.  I also had long over-the-knee socks with teeny purple bows peeking out of the top of the boots.  This is what I had on with my hopsital gown.  Up in the stirrups with my boots and bare naked butt hanging over the edge of the table, holding Bob’s hand.

I mean, c’mon, what could be hotter more romantic than that?

Looking at the screen, the doctor notes that my left ovary had released the egg approximately two days ago.  Yay for my left ovary.  It RULES.

My right ovary, on the other hand, is twisted.  Hanging out in the back of my body with my kidneys, it has a mind of its own.  My uterus is also situated on my far right hand side…being pulled by scar tissue. My right leg is the one that was tortured in my accident too.  I had surgery on my right boob in October, my GOD, my right side sucks!

I swear…my left side of my body belongs to me.  The right side is like it’s inhabited by my evil twin.

PREPARATION

Never before have I been so anxious to get my period.  It was only a mere two weeks away since I had just ovulated. 

I was more than ready to get things moving and my next step was to get day 3 blood work done.  In fact, I think I was making myself sick with worry about all the upcoming tests.  I was immediately nauseated and completely exhausted.

I couldn’t concentrate.  I promised to repair and complete the INSPIRE painting and name the winner.  Which I still haven’t done.

I was supposed to do two interviews in the press.  I missed them both. 

I sort of disappeared from Facebook and Twitter, hadn’t talked to any of my friends in weeks and postponed my upcoming Atlanta A La Mode show because I just didn’t have the energy.  The fumes in the studio were making me sick.  I couldn’t sleep at night.  I guess the idea that I was getting ready to go through in vitro had me so nervous that I just wasn’t functioning like my normal workaholic self.

I felt weird. Scared even. I had no idea what was wrong with me.  That is…until I noticed my GINORMOUS boobs.  Not the, I’m about to start my period big boobs…but huge swollen boobs (that on my then 93 lb frame) looked ridiculously gigantic.

But could it be? Almost seven years later, Bob and I go to our first fertility appointment together and BAM get pregnant before we even begin treatment?  I’m an overachiever and all, but really, this is unreal. 

For years, pregnancy tests have been brutal.  Anticipation had led to so much disappointment.  So, it’s hard to convey the joy of seeing those two pink lines. When I did – I dropped to my knees and bawled like a baby.

The longest day of my life was that day, waiting for Bob to come home. 

I can hardly believe it – I’m going to be a MOM!!!  In May, around Mother’s Day, we will find out if it’s a boy or a girl.  OMG!!  I can’t believe it.

PRAYERS PLEASE

Just shy of two months, it’s probably too soon to share with the world. Ideally, I’d love to wait until the 6 month mark to make sure everything was fine. 

But my whole life had to change in an instant.  My business, my manufacturing, the ability to make our products, to use the chemicals and solvents that I use every day – it has all come to a screeching halt.  The finished products are completely non-toxic, but all the steps that go into making them, all of the elements that have to come together to create those little works are much more hazardous than one might assume.

I have so many decisions to make.  I have to figure out what I’m going to do.  We make everything in house.  It’s always been with utmost pride when I tell people we make everything right here in the Sugarluxe Studio.

Over the last five years, I’ve tried three different factories in the US.  None have been capable of mass producing our card cases and compacts because they are very labor intensive, the materials are expensive, and they are time consuming to complete.

So, I’m at a crossroads.  The decision to stop all accessories production in the studio has been an easy one.  Like beer, coffee, and sushi, I stopped immediately. The truth is I can’t breathe, I get lightheaded and that’s simply not healthy for me or the baby.  I can’t wear a respirator because it makes getting oxygen in too difficult. 

But how I’m going to continue…or possibly not continue making Sugarluxe accessories…is something that is still undecided.

That’s why I’m sharing the news now.

For those stores and customers whose orders we’ve had had to cancel, I’m so sorry. 

Until some time in the forseeable future, production of any new accessories not in stock (not including art) is on hold.  I’ve waited WAY too long for the opportunity to have a baby.  I’m not taking any chances. The sacrifice of everything I’ve built, the possibility of losing future business…none of that matters right now.

This is what I’ve been waiting for my whole life.  I can resume with my product manufacturing and development later.  And if history has taught me anything – it’s that every challenge I’ve faced in business has created an opportunity for me to figure out a solution that – in the long run - always makes everything better.

So, my hope is that you will continue to follow me on my journey, however it may unfold.

I’ve dedicated my life to trying to live as an example of the philosophies I teach.  Where would I be without gratitude, hope, faith, confidence, kindness, and a bit of rebelliousness thrown in for good measure?

Sticking to these principles, talking about them constantly, incorporating these beliefs into all of my art is a huge part of the reason I’ve never given up.  I made myself accountable to walk the talk.  It’s not that I’ve never been stricken with doubt, depression or despair, I have. But my work and faith helped to fuel my hope.

I can attest to the fact that both professionally and personally, the most cherished things in life are certainly those for which you’ve worked the hardest.

Please send us good luck wishes…we are so excited for this next SWEET chapter in our lives.

Do you ever feel like you have a knack for predicting the future? Me, too!

As long as I can remember, I’ve been struck by flashes of inspiration. Or maybe it’s just that I do a lot of wishful thinking.  Either way, I’m not one to chalk things up to coincidence. Whether it’s being in touch with our intuition, the power of prayer or even the self-fulfilling prophecy of positive thinking – I believe it’s possible to envision what you want – and then make it happen.

THE COLOR INSTITUTE

One of the best examples in my recent past is late last year when Pantone, Inc. announced their selection for Color of the Year.

If you’re a designer – fashion, graphic, web, interior – or any other creative professional, you’ve likely worked with Pantones Colors.  In fact, now that programs like Adobe Photoshop are so prevalent and accessible, more people than ever are familiar with Pantone.

In 1963, Lawrence Herbert, Pantone’s founder, developed an innovative system of identifying and matching colors to solve the problems associated with producing accurate color matches in the graphic arts community.

For more than 45 years, Pantone’s Color Institute has been the world-renowned authority on color.

Have you ever wondered why when you walk into a store and see new seasonal merchandise, it all coordinates so well?  Is it a conspiracy?  Do designers really dictate trends in color?

TREND FORECASTS

Designers do play a key role in determining color trends, and the Color Institute relies on this input.

The semiannual Pantone fashion color report surveys top designers. The Pantone team takes the information and utilizes that as a collection for their Trend Forecasts for the coming season.

Hot up and coming colors:  Pink Champagne, Chocolate Truffle, Lagoon, Red Lipstick and Oyster Gray.

But the one I love the most?  Pantone’s 2010 Color of the Year:  TURQUOISE!

Carolyn Kelly, from The Magazine Antiques writes, “Turquoise has been one of the most sought after colors in decorative arts history starting with the turquoise ground, called bleu céleste, developed in 1753 for Louis XV at the porcelain factory at Vincennes.”

Let’s start with one of my favorite kitchens ever.  Created by architectural designer Peter Napolitano and interior designer Thomas Britt, this photo, featured in Architectural Digest and first spotted on a blog I adore – House of Turquoise – serves as a constant source of inspiration.

In fact, if you’ve ever visited the Sugarluxe Studio, you’d think HGTV Designer, Judith Balis, channeled my space when she created this beautiful room below.  From the hot pink chairs and zebra print pillows, to the glossy black accents and turquoise walls, I love her balance of traditional furnishings with a totally modern flair made possible by the smart use of color.  (photo via HGTV Designer Portfolios)

Here’s another gorgeous room that pays homage to the Sugarluxe Life.  Interior Designer, Debbie Sheaf made perfect use of my fav color combo (photo via Southern Hospitality Blog)

Click below on examples from the Sugarluxe Gallery and you’ll see that I’ve been predicting the need for these upbeat, vibrant colors for years.

Pantone says they represent a psychological shift toward the need for optimism and hope.  I say – EXACTLY!

Oh, how I just LOVE color!

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Speaking of love, fashion mavens and modern designers aren’t the only ones coveting my favorite color this year.

Brides to Be are filling our inbox with orders for mirror compacts and keyrings that feature even the faintest hint of turquoise.  These items have always been great gifts for bridesmaids, but now it seems big orders for bridal parties are coming in like never before.

We are even adding more designs to our SMART Cufflinks Collection because the demand is growing. Even the grooms want in on the action.

I think that speaks to the global reach and impact of Pantone Colors which now permeate every industry.

For even more inspiration, be sure to check out some of my favorite blissful blogs:

It’s a Jaime Thing |  Cocktails & Details |   The Wedding Chicks |  Wedding Paper Divas

In addition to my personal preference, the psychology of this color helps to explain its inherently optimistic nature.

IT’S TIME FOR TURQUOISE

Color can help to build confidence.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, adds that by combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise inspires thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a comforting escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of well-being…

She explains that whether envisioned as a tranquil ocean surrounding a tropical island or a protective stone warding off evil spirits, Turquoise is a color that most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion and interiors.

With both warm and cool undertones, it pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum.

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT

I also believe that Turquoise is a color of compassion and inner healing.  It relates to our ability to love ourselves, as well as others.  That’s why, even before it became trendy, Turquoise has always played a dominant role in my art.

I feel so blessed that I get to do what I do.  This week, we celebrated our Anniversary at Sugarluxe. Here’s to 5 FABULOUS YEARS of trying my BEST to make the world a brighter place…

BABY PANDAS

There’s no proof, but I’m quite positive that Pandas would love cupcakes.

I’m also pretty sure that EVERYONE loves pandas - what, with that classic black and white fur coat, those woefully sad eyes and their playful, incredibly cute nature - they are one of the most beloved creatures on earth. 

BABY PEOPLE

Chandyn - Baby Person

ARE YOU INSPIRED TO WIN?

It’s almost Valentine’s Day! When you see this picture, do you have the urge to say BE MINE? Already one of the clear favorites of the A La Mode collection, I think I might be able to find someone who would love a FREE 40×36 inch Inspire gallery wrapped canvas.

But first, in true Sugarluxe fashion, the story:

DEDICATED TO THE VISION

Years ago, I gutted my downstairs bathroom.  At the time I first bought my home, I was single, living alone and due to long hours at work, had no time or real reason to do another home improvement project.

Yet, I couldn’t wait for the weekend to arrive when I would rip off the outdated paper, pull out the ugly vanity, and slather the walls with a red faux finish.

In my mind’s eye…I knew the first time I saw this bathroom, exactly what I wanted to do with it.

Unfortunately, never having torn out a sink before, I didn’t anticipate that it would take with it, huge chunks of the wall.  $%&#!  It was a complete disaster.

But large gaping holes, a dangling electrical box and no clue how to fix this mess were not reasons enough to stop me from realizing my vision.

DESIGN INSPIRATION

My weekend job turned into a an entire year’s worth of work.  After the chaos cleared, I put in a sleek white pedestal sink, a beautiful faucet with porcelain knobs, and only then, began to paint.

Layering, rubbing, and glazing for days, I created a dimensional patina of rich velvety red.

Next, I paired vintage black die-cast outdoor lanterns as lighting over an ornate beveled mirror.  It turned out stunning. And finally the moment arrived for me to hang the art:  because after all, it was a beloved framed print that had actually been the inspiration for the entire project in the first place.

The Inspire Artwork from the A La Mode Series, or at least the red, black and white color palette anway, was actually inspired by my remodel of this room years ago.  It hasn’t changed since the day it was completed.  To me, it’s timeless, kind of like your favorite little black dress.

IT’S UP TO YOU

It’s why, when I started to receive feedback on Facebook about which pieces of the collection people liked the most, I was pretty excited to see that so many felt a true affection for Inspire.

My work, especially those emblazoned with a bold message, may never be analyzed by the majority of those who view it.  But perhaps you’ve taken it a step further and pondered. Who is she looking at? Is she seducing someone or is she watching her back?  Is she turning around to say one last goodbye?  That’s up to you to decide.

But whatever the reason people are drawn to Inspire, it makes me happy that it connects with so many.

As such, it turns out, it’s a piece that is in high demand.  From big gallery stretched canvases and small archival paper prints, to daily requests to make this artwork into designer card cases and our crystal compact mirrors…it has struck a chord and that just thrills me to no end.

A SWEET ART TIME OF YEAR

In honor of Black History Month, plus with Valentine’s Day and our 5th Anniversary at Sugarluxe quickly approaching, I’ve been planning a FUN GIVEAWAY for one lucky winner.  What I thought I’d do was make and give away a brand new Inspire Card Case, the very first one of its kind.

Pretty cool, huh?

But then!

Something happened yesterday that changed my whole direction.

A large AP Giclee of my original artwork, with its top quality pine wood stretcher bars and costly high end canvas, takes weeks to complete.

The very last step before we box it up and ship it out is to take a photo to document my signature and the number of the AP as proof of authenticity to file with the purchase order paper work.

However, due to the dreary weather, we could not get enough light in the studio, and our photo lighting rig was in storage.  I always prefer natural light anyway as it brings out the truest colors, so the art scheduled for shipment yesterday needed to be shot outside.

The first one we take out is Inspire.  At almost 10 square feet of material, it is both large and lightweight.  And literally, within moments of stepping outside the studio door, the wind RIPPED the canvas from my hands and went flying across the parking lot.

I felt sick.  Not only was this going to create a delay for my client, I was out money and time.  I was reminded of the day I pulled out the sink in my bathroom and sat dumbfounded as I stared at the unbelievably big hole in my wall.

But nowadays I know there’s a reason for everything.  In fact, I even believe completed DIY projects around the home are great primers for small business owners. That kind of work:

• Teaches you to expect the unexpected.
• Prepares you for the investment of time.
• Helps you to make the most of your budget.
• Gives you the confidence that you CAN fix things.

Because in home improvement projects, as in business, things can and do go wrong.  But if you never mess things up, you never really learn how to make things right.

So, I had an idea…

THE WORK AHEAD

The upper left hand corner is obviously damaged. The edge needs repainted on two sides, and one of the support bars on the back cracked in half and poked into, but thankfully not through, the front of the canvas (look near the stenciled letter S on the third pic).

The biggest challenge will be to build up that gouged corner, followed by trying to get an exact match on the paint and the lacquer glaze protective coat.

The first picture is just to give you some detail of the canvas…the next two show you the actual damage and what I will be working feverishly to repair.

THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE

So during the remainder of the month and somehow in between the mad rush of orders for Valentine’s Day, I’m going to work to fix the canvas.  I want it to go to someone who really cares about the artwork.

I certainly know how to patch and paint.  I think I can do this.  I can make it – almost – like new again.  It will never be perfect, but I’m INSPIRED to give it my best.

And I have a feeling, that even though it has a few scars, someone will adore it more so for it having been saved.

——————————————————–  INCREASE YOUR CHANCES ——————————————————–

2 Entries – Use the Tweet This button below to retweet this blog link.

3 Entries - Comment here on the blog: why you love this art and want to win?

5 Entries - Has Sugarluxe inspired you? Write it on the main Sugarluxe Facebook Page wall.

10 Entries - For any order placed between 2/1/10 and 2/14/10 on www.sugarluxe.com.

——————————————————  INSPIRE CANVAS GIVEAWAY —————————————————

With participation you can earn anywhere from 2 to a maximum of 20 entries into the drawing.  I truly look forward to fixing her up and giving her a loving home!

Someday I’ll wish upon a star and wake up where the clouds are far behind me.
A dark cloud has been looming.  Not only did this month mark the anniversary date of my life-altering accident, but fertility continues to elude me, and a few weeks ago, I discovered a dreadful lump.

To read more about my personal scare with Breast Cancer, you can check out this revealing Facebook post – Sugarluxe Loves Boobs.

Since that time, I’ve had surgery and I’m on the mend.  I am so thankful that we were able to detect this sizable mass early enough to eliminate it before it became unruly.  I feel extremely fortunate.

It’s no use screaming at a time like this! No one will hear you… Help! HELP!
But honestly, even the little stuff adds up.  Like when the unique building that housed my big, fabulous studio was condemned this summer and we were given less than two weeks to completely relocate and try to remain operational. Not a big deal in the grand scheme of things, but unexpected and exhausting.

If you were really great and powerful, you’d keep your promises!
Or the following month, when I realized that the publisher of Rare Magazine, Taylor Perkins, was going to be in willful breach of our contract – essentially stealing money right out of my pocket and making the huge miscalculation that I would sit back and take it.

Little men behind the curtain, bad, mean witches and flying monkeys aside, I try my hardest to stay focused on following my own yellow brick road. 

This is why I love the Wizard of Oz. Like the movie, life itself is an epic journey. And I, like Dorothy, am a dreamer. I believe anything is possible.

Yet, there is no doubt – to overcome your detractors, to survive, to be successful – takes heart, requires brains, and massive amounts of courage.

That’s the beauty of this tale:  You don’t need to be given these traits; you just have to find them within yourself. They’re already there.

—————————————————  70th Anniversary Celebration ————————————————–

And it’s why I so thoroughly enjoyed creating this Sugarluxe interpretation over the last few months.  In the midst of any turmoil, I find refuge in painting a world filled with hope and happy moments.

I’m thrilled to complete and present my piece for the Warner Bros. Anniversary celebration. 2009 marked the 70th Anniversary of this classic movie and as the year draws to a close, I’m excited to unveil my tribute to the wonderful Wizard of Oz.

In fact, over a month ago, while I was still working on the conceptualization of Dorothy and Toto in my signature style, I decided to play a game on Facebook with Sugarluxe Fans.

It was so much fun and Tiffany Bymaster was our big winner.  I’ve since learned more about Tiffany who is an incredible pro-celebrity/movie makeup artist in Los Angeles.  How fitting that she would win the piece dedicated to one of the most beloved movies ever made!

She has also waited patiently to receive the VERY first signed and numbered piece. And now that it’s on the way to her, I finally get to make these giclee artist’s prints available to you, too.

• Title:  Dreamgirl
• Collector’s Edition: Signed, Dated, and Numbered Limited Edition of 70
• Media:  Pigment and Metallic Inks with Watercolor on Archival Museum Grade Fine Art Paper

Can be ordered as ready to frame in black or white mat:
8 ply (very thick) 16 x 20, Beveled Edge, Premium Mat with Acid-Free Mounting Board

If you love the Wizard of Oz like I do, or know someone who does, this vibrant 70th Anniversary Artwork will be sure to please for years to come.  Exclusive to Sugarluxe, you can find out more details at www.sugarluxe.com.

Until next time…I’m off to find some place where there isn’t any trouble. Do you suppose there is such a place?