Give It One More Push

Lately I have been trying to give it one more push at the end of the day. After I think I've put in a pretty good effort I tell myself "What if you finish super strong?" That might mean soldering for 10 more minutes, cutting out 5 more pieces, writing 3 more pages, designing one more pattern, entering one more post or preparing one more thank you card.
What ever it is, that extra push makes a big difference. I feel accomplished, strong and satisfied with my day. Just for fun I'd like to show you some final hour projects for your inspiration and enjoyment. 

This extra push was to clean and copper patina 35 Nova stars. It feels great to have a project complete so that the next day when I enter the studio I'm not finishing yesterday's work.

Just one more hour got this first side soldered. This week I will finish this window and hopefully get it installed in the client's home. I'm excited about that.

These note cards were made by my friend, Rene'. Writing a last minute thank you card on these beautiful cards is a pleasure.

Once in a while our artist friends get together for a fun evening of visiting and silliness.

After a busy day in the studio, I'm ready to turn out the lights, unplug the iron and say good night. It's time for family and friend time. Sometimes I would be fine to snuggle up on the couch with a good movie but taking time to visit and have a snack with those you love is, well, Hygge. I just learned that word which means cozy and comfortable. Taking that extra time to nurture relationships is such a blessing. I encourage you to finish each day with flair. Congratulate yourself for a job well done.

Why You Need Stained Glass

During a class this afternoon, Shelly and I had a conversation about why we love stained glass class. We came up with a variety of reasons that I would like to share with you today. 

     1. Stress Relief

Shelly works in a high stress job with lots of responsibility. She volunteers at a veterinary clinic one day a week but still needs an outlet just for herself. Her passion is Disneyland and has visited there many times. It was perfect for her to spend a few hours a week in stained glass class making Disney windows for her own pleasure. "It gives me a focus apart from my hectic job where I can let go for a few hours."

2. Tap in to your creative side. 

Studies have been done recently that point to the benefits of spending time on a creative project. Learning something new fires different neurons we don't usually exercise. You may find a new talent you never know you had.

3. Time to interact

Shelly came with her daughter for 6 weeks of quality time. Relationships take effort. Sharing a class of creative activity where you also can laugh, talk and learn is a wonderful way to interact. Then every time you look at your project hanging in your home you remember the fun time you spent together.

4. Satisfaction

Completing a project feels good. After a class of cutting, grinding, fitting, foiling and soldering you go home with a glass panel to be proud of. This is why I teach stained glass classes and why I invite you to join me.