Patience, Pickles, and Piggin’ Out

My dependency on dill pickles is nothing new. But if a picture is worth a thousand words, then this one to the left probably says it all. 

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.

In fact, some might say that I wasn’t “really trying” over all these years because I wouldn’t seek medical intervention. I never saw a fertility specialist, much to the chagrin of my OB-GYN who was certain that if the endometriosis was removed I’d increase my chances. Plus, I never once read a message board or forum discussing the topic of infertility.  Perhaps I’ve been in denial.  But I just so badly wanted to believe, like everything else, that Bob and I would figure this out on our own.

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 ridiculouly 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 who have been patiently waiting for me to announce the winner of INSPIRE – thank you!  Someone is getting that painting.  I promise. 

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.

Sweet Panda Cupcake Art Print Download! Love, Sugarluxe

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

What in the World? Why You Could WIN Inspire Canvas Artwork

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!

Over the Rainbow: Dreams You Dare to Dream Really Do Come True

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?

You Are What You Tweet? So Says Brand New Twitter App TweetPsych…

Not quite two weeks ago, I discussed part of the driving force behind what motivates much of my art.  My background and particularly my post grad work in cognitive psychology finds its way into everything I do. 

Also, in an interview earlier this year with Sonali Vora, who writes for VectorTuts+ (an Australian based online educational community for artists and illustrators around the world) I mentioned my father’s background in linguistics.  Essentially, linguistics concerns itself with the understanding of human language.  As such, linguists often draw on the work from the field of social sciences. 

That’s why I flipped out over TweetPsych for Twitter.  But first, a few more details…

I use imagery to communicate.  What I can’t always express through words, I can with art.  (Although I worked as both a curriculum developer and professional copywriter for years – it’s different when composing something so personal).  It’s a vulnerable place because artists are always being analyzed for what “they’re really saying” through their art.

That’s why when I first launched Sugarluxe, I didn’t belong to any social networks.  My reluctance was not because I didn’t understand the need for self-promotion as a modern day artist.  Mostly, I had just hoped my work would do the talking for me. 

Online - it’s part of my job to tell people what I’m up to.  But offline, it’s very different.  Rather than talking about what I do, I prefer to ask questions, I listen intently and I truly enjoy learning about other people.

Up Close & Personal

Then my best friend Karen began raving about Facebook last summer. After 4 semesters of college interns on Facebook all day long…I wasn’t overly thrilled that my friends were now following suit. I was already spread too thin and from the looks of things, I didn’t think I could be as passive on Facebook as I’d been on MySpace. 

But working the number of hours I do, I rarely get to spend enough time with friends.  So in hopes of remaining close and connected, I created my Facebook profile.

In less than a month, my life changed.  In conjunction with finding old friends –  I finally got to see the faces and learn about the lives of people who had been supporting and buying my art since day one.  My inspiration was renewed!

Since that time, and very recently I might add, I created a Sugarluxe Fan Page.  Despite appearances from this post, I tend to be an early adopter with technology.  Plus, I’m an avid reader of sites like TechCrunch and Mashable.  But the social networks take me a little longer to get behind only because I have to find ways in which they best suit my personality.

My goal is not to simply amass tens of thousands of followers or fans or friends.  It’s just not who I am.  I need real relationships. I would rather have 10 close friends than a million people who could give a crap.  I’ve just always been that way…

Yet, I’m so happy that I’ve reached out, connected through meaningful dialogue and learned to embrace social networks as a way to build a community with those people who share in my passion. 

Over-(Net)Worked?

Which leads me back to Twitter.

Reading, studying, and analyzing a social network may not sound like the work of a full-time artist, but as someone who has spent the last few years employing different methods to remain connected with my diverse audience, it made sense for me to investigate.

I’ve spent a year watching Twitter.  Just as I did with MySpace first and then Facebook.  I needed to figure out if it was a useful tool for me. 

Some people warned me that I would become addicted. Pro-bloggers and journalists? Yes…that makes sense.  But as someone whose livelihood depends on creating, not reporting, it’s not the type of thing to make me obsessed.

But with time and a growing user base comes new applications and developments that enhance all social media.  Thankfully, there are terrific people out there improving the functionality of these tools every day.  And that’s why it takes time for me to assess the viability of it for my own business.

The Profiler

So today, two days ago, when I read about the BETA launch of TweetPsych, I immediately felt that the evolution of Twitter was upon us.

— The system had some issues at launch time and it seems to be stabilized at this point, so now, to continue…

TweetPsych, developed by Dan Zarella, uses linguistic algorithms to analyze tweets to build a quick psychological profile.  AND – any Twitter username can be analyzed.   Dan says:

TweetPsych uses the LIWC and RID (linguistic analysis methods to profile a person based on what they write) to build a psychological profile of a person based on the content of their Tweets.

I think the possibilities of a system like this are enormous, from matching like-minded users to identifying users that exhibit certain useful or desirable traits.

Do you see the potential of a tool like this? 

After the novelty has worn off (meaning: you’ve profiled yourself and everyone else you can think of) can you imagine the implications for job seekers, recruiters, employers and possibly even health insurance providers?

Okay.  Maybe most people won’t read into the way I do.  After all, I’ve always said that I paint personalities, not portraits.  So…granted, my geeky side comes out in full force on this one. 

But I think an application like this could affect millions of people. 

1. Should we be concerned how this information might be used? 
2. Will people rethink their tweets now that we know something like this exists? 
3. How will results be interpreted and should I help to write some definitions? 

Talk about possible behavior modification on a massive scale! We are literally living in a global laboratory and it’s wild to think about what it might mean. 

Regardless, huge props to Dan for such a clever idea and implementation. 

If you’re on Twitter, too – tell us – what does it say about you?

The Facebook Quiz | Find Out: Which Sugarluxe Girl Are You?

Quite seriously? I’ve been dying to make and take this quiz for years.  Sometimes technology just has to catch up with the vision.

Before completing my undergrad degree in Psychology, I began considering what I’d like to study next (yes, I’m one of those nerdy types who loves to learn!)

Luckily, one day, bolting  across campus to gather information on both the LSAT and requirements for secondary teaching certification, I ran into one of my former professors.  He told me a little bit about his research in the Ed. Psych Department.

He was overseeing a Graduate Program with a specialty in Cognition.  After hearing just a brief description, I knew it was what I wanted to do next. 

 LEARNING and COGNITION
“Educational Psychologists who concentrate their work in these areas try to better understand the factors that influence performance and how to affect positive change.”  Quoting this description from the department itself, you can probably see how this became part of the foundation upon which I would eventually build the Sugarluxe Brand. 

Having spent two years prior to graduation helping to conduct research with another professor in the area of Abnormal Psychology, I was really looking to switch gears.  It was my last year of undergrad that most greatly impacted my direction.  I was assigned to work at a hospital about an hour and a half south of town.  I reported to the psychiatric wing once a week.  We were doing a study on schizophrenia.  I was the only female research assistant (and barely 20 years old) on an all-male patient ward.  I remember the overwhelming feeling of apprehension the first time I walked through those double doors.

ART + PSYCHOLOGY
But after acclimating to the unrelenting cat calls, it was a weirdly rewarding and life altering experience.  Namely because of one patient.

I don’t even know if this man knew I was there.  I sat next to him.  I observed him.  I tried having countless conversations with him.  But he never responded to me.  He wasn’t catatonic, he was just a bit delusional and suffering from severe hallucinations.  The deal was…he would draw the entire time.  He was quite an amazing artist and when he finished each sketch, he would talk to it as if his drawing had come to life.

Despite having a fairly profound disturbance, I found him to be fascinating and inspirational.  In fact, he affected me so deeply, I realized, I wasn’t cut out for that kind of work.  I was afraid I would never be able (and never want) to desensitize myself.

Instead of focusing on what was wrong with him, I wanted to figure out what was right. 

What had happened to this man?  Who were the people he portrayed in his art?  What motivated him to draw?  Was he always compelled to create?  How did it help him to cope with life?  Could we use his talents to facilitate treatment?

CRAZY IDEAS
Back then, I would have never dreamed that I would get to live my life doing what I do. 

In all honesty, I think I was a little scared that people might think I was delusional for thinking I could be an artist.  Or that I could build a company with very little money, based on artwork that had never been seen by anyone, with no connections in the art world, no formal art training and with the intent to spread a message of hope and optimism, especially at a time when that was so clearly against the status quo. 

Maybe THAT’S crazy?!

Just as I imagine it must have somehow helped my patient, creating art has helped me to cope with pain, confusion, and frustration.  The fact that I’ve chosen not to depict those feelings as part of the artwork itself, and merely as part of the therapeutic process it provides, doesn’t make it any less profound.  There’s far more there for those who look below the surface.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
That’s why I’ve anxiously awaited the opportunity to implement a Sugarluxe Girl profile quiz. Even though there are probably thousands of quizzes on Facebook now, this one actually does have years of thought, understanding and analysis behind it.  Its influence is a product of my work itself.  The personalities that are infused into the art are drawn from the very people who continue to inspire each and every piece I make.

Part of my mission has always been to comprehend the complexity of the positive characteristics that make up our personalities and how those attributes contribute to our sense of self.  The way that I’ve tried to do that is by simplifying those wonderful traits into something visually iconic.

FUN on FACEBOOK
Does that sound too lofty and idealistic for a simple Facebook Application?  I hope not.  It takes less than 5 minutes and it’s also FUN!

I have a blast meeting up with friends/fans on Facebook.  I love seeing what you’re up to, learning about your families, looking at photos and watching the massive amounts of support that people provide one another there. 

Plus, I’d bet people agree – I’m actually a lot more light-hearted than I probably sound here.  This blog is like my diary and facebook is more reflective of my daily life. I guess it just depends on where I am at any given moment.

But that’s really my whole point.  Like the pictures that I paint, we have so many layers, don’t we?

I hope you like the first Sugarluxe Girl quiz.  More importantly, I hope you will share it with friends because the profiles, although definitely fun, are also meant to reinforce how wonderful you are – to me – and to all those who know you. 

The results I’ve seen, seem to be pretty spot on.  What do you think?  Which Sugarluxe Girl Are YOU?

 

—————————————————————  GET MOTIVATED —————————————————————

Our True Potential?

I greatly appreciate your help in this mission:  To understand our most positive personality traits, how they affect our outlook on life and by acknowledging and owning those characteristics, we can identify, and hopefully, bring out the best in others, too.

This is one way, TOGETHER, we help people discover that confidence and kindness are essential building blocks of a better life. 

7 Steps on How You Can Help:

1.  If you haven’t already done so, START by joining us on the Sugarluxe Facebook Page.

2.  Paste this link to your profile - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sugarluxe/85019116599

3.  Next, be sure to take the Facebook Quiz - Which Sugarluxe Girl Are You?

4.  Post or even re-publish your results to your profile and invite your friends to participate too.

5.  Leave a comment here on this Sugarluxe Blog post and share the results of your quiz.

6.  Write your Facebook App Review on the Sugarluxe Quiz Application Page.

7.  Discuss ideas with other creative, compassionate, kind, charismatic Sugarluxe Friends!

LIFE is FABULOUS (and so are Moms)!

Last week, I received great news with this subject line:  FABULOUS Sugarluxe Art is in LIFE Magazine.  As usual, I couldn’t wait to call my mom.  It was an exclusive feature on Miley Cyrus.  I mean, I may never land in LIFE Magazine myself, but it still felt pretty good to see my art in the spread. 

Anyway, the only trouble is, by the time I come here onto the blog and talk about an experience, all of the effort that went into making those moments possible get lost in the mix.  People who are just starting their careers or those looking for hope amidst the economic chaos can mistakenly believe that this kind of stuff happens overnight.  How are you supposed to get inspired if it all seems like it just comes down to some twist of fate?

My mom taught me that you have to make your own luck.

Great Expectations

First, there’s obviously more to making Fabulous Art than meets the eye.  

I oversee the behind the scenes manufacturing, day to day operations, design and direction of the Sugarluxe brand.  I’m fielding a mounting number of private commissions, juggling the exchange rate with seven countries who carry the line, and trying to ensure that we continue to deliver the top notch customer service that helped to get Sugarluxe to this point in the first place. 

Plus, I’m under contract to complete my next art series by the end of August and cannot show anyone until November 1st (ugh!), and talking to a handful of gorgeous Fine Art Galleries to discuss where I might like to showcase a few of my original paintings.

Also (telling self to breathe), I’ve been spending any spare moment possible working to help pass a bill in Congress.  In fact, a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to deliver Congressional testimony in hopes of persuading the Senate to sign this bill into law.  Last week, the bill was passed at the state level.  YAY!!! 

If , well I prefer to think – when – we get the federal bill passed, too, it will literally and positively impact millions of lives.  

It’s simple really. I believe you have to expect great things to happen.  In my first year of business, one of my friends warned me that I expected too much. 

She advised, “Expect less, so when bad situations occur, you won’t face such disappointment.  And, when good things happen, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.”

Coming off of a tremendously hard blow, I could see her reasoning.  But I respectfully disagreed. 

What’s LIFE, if it’s not to wish for great things for yourself and those you love?  Lowering expectations in an effort to avoid disappointment is defeatist at best, or worse, completely without hope.

I’ve survived my share of losses.  Sacrifices have been significant.  Conversely, I’ve been greatly rewarded too.  

My mom encouraged me to focus on the blessings in LIFE and she raised me with the belief that to whom much is given, much is expected.  She smartly added, that when much is expected, much is given, too.

I don’t mean self-entitlement.  Please don’t misconstrue my message.  Fundamentally, it’s about hope and faith.  When the bad stuff happens, and it does, it will, it’s the only guarantee, you’ll find peace of mind in knowing that something good is meant to come from it.

 Possibility Through Purpose

1. Yes, the odds are stacked against us. 
2. Yes, times are tough. 
3. Yes, we are in the midst of an economic recession. 
4. AND yes, running a business is a lot less glamorous than it seems on the surface. 

However, when you have clarity of purpose, anything is possible.  

After the hit and run accident that nearly claimed my life, my mom presented my options.   She warned me that it would be easy to use this trauma as my excuse for everything. After all, the damage was extensive and permanent.  Or I could try to make sense of it and find my purpose for living.  She said,  “It may take years of hard work before your efforts pay off , but they will.  I promise”.

Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible.  - Marion C. Garretty

P.S. - To My Mom, Happy Mother’s Day!

You are so loving, so generous, so beautiful and I’m so happy that you’re my mom.  You’ve provided guidance and discipline in just the right doses…while still allowing me to discover my own sense of self.

You instilled in me a confidence that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to and that’s been one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever been given.  You’ve never doubted my abilities, you continue to believe in me and you pray for me every day. 

Most importantly, you make me laugh all the time.  Proving to me that it was of utmost importance to be a great role model first and then later, my most FABULOUS friend. 

You have taught me so much…I love you, and I thank you.

What About Your Mom?

Please take a moment to share something FABULOUS about her.  I’d love to hear about a lesson your Mother has taught you that has positively affected your outlook on LIFE.

Sunshine and Sparkles Inspire a Brand New Spring Art Special

Ready for me to pour some sugar on you?  How about a Buy One Get One FREE special? 

I just love days like this.  Where I live…it’s 74 degrees, sunny and bright with a nice cool breeze.  Yes, this is definitely my kind of day.

So, I’m feeling good, despite the work overload.  The sunshine is spilling into the studio making everything that much more sparkly, too. Perhaps that explains why I thought it was time to take a break from my busy schedule.

Well, I’m not officially taking a break.  I don’t even really understand the word “break”.  But I am back here on the blog to share some Sugarluxe-y goodness again.

Since it’s my favorite time of year - I just had to come up with an idea today to spread a little of this beautiful sunshine.

In fact, I couldn’t be more pleased about the Sugarluxe website overhaul we did recently because it allows us to implement so many more fabulous offerings for our friends.

Over the past few years, we would put together about 4 VIP deals a year – one per quarter at the most.  It wasn’t that I didn’t have all kinds of things I wanted to do.  It was simply that the website was so painstakingly manual, we just didn’t have the time to make all the necessary changes required to do it more often.  Now, instead of two weeks to change everything in our programming and spread the word about our specials…we can put together something sweet in as little as one day. 

Well, honestly?  A dedicated day to any project right now is still demanding on what little time I seem to have, but if it means I get to come over to the blog and do something extra nice for the people I adore…then it is TOTALLY worth it.

 

———————————————————— HERE’S WHAT TO DO ———————————————————

Select any size Archival Art Paper Print from the Sugarluxe Website (only) and get a giclee paper print in the same size/format for free!  YAY!

If you own a Sugarluxe Gallery Wrapped Canvas and have thought about anchoring the artwork with some smaller framed pieces – NOW is the time to do it.  Or, if you haven’t started your Sugarluxe Collection yet, but you’ve been dying to get that first little piece – NOW you can get two for one.  Either way, it’s a nice little bonus.

1. Be sure to add a comment in the Customer Comments section at the bottom of the check out page – mention that you want the Spring Art Special.
2. Tell us which ADDITIONAL print you’ve selected and would like to add to your order. 
3. Complete your purchase and your TWO new prints will arrive together. 

It’s that easy!

Please note:  This special expired on 4.31.09

—————————————————  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS  ——————————————

What is an Archival Giclee Paper Print?
Unlike posters on thin stock paper (oh, and by the way, I love posters so not knocking them – these are just not posters). Our prints are genuine Sugarluxe painting reproductions created on premium archival Museum Grade Fine Art Paper. This paper has been made since 1819 by the oldest paper mill in the country.

What is the Museum Fine Art Paper like?
This smooth 100% Cotton Rag Fine Art Paper feels thick, rich and gives a deep gorgeous color to the images.  Plus, it is naturally acid and lignin free. It is also buffered for added stability and treated with a special UV protective coating to ensure that the colors remain constant over time.  In addition, it is recommended that you mat and/or frame your Sugarluxe print in order to enhance its longevity.

Why don’t you mat and/or frame these prints at Sugarluxe?
Product line decisions are often based on the wonderful feedback and input we receive from customers around the world.  Because we do ship globally, and we have stockists in a number of countries who wanted to carry Sugarluxe Art in addition to our accessories, I was determined to find a way to maintain the integrity of a valued art print, but make it so that it is easy and affordable to ship. 

And – I also like to offer flexibility.  If we mat and frame the piece for you –  it might not work for your decor and that is limiting its potential to work well within your space.  Since we are not a frame shop, we leave that work to the professionals who make a living, matting and framing art.  That way, you get exactly what you want.

I want a bigger print, but 13 inch openings on pre-made mats are sometimes hard to find. What do you suggest?
First – that’s true.  And square mats are harder to locate, too.  But the mat does make the whole piece a bit more substantial. Plus, our prints with a mat and frame look fantastic.  We have twelve pieces installed like this in the studio right now.

What I do is go to the framing section of my local Michaels (not just because that’s my last name) or once you’re familiar with what you need, better prices can be found online at Blick Art Materials (love this place the most and it’s where I buy all my canvases, supplies, mats and they have great, inexpensive frames, too). 

Then, I just pick out a piece of “Mat Board”.  If you don’t know where to find it, the good people in the frame area will show you.  Ask to have an opening cut to fit the size (should be a bit smaller than the actual print size so that it is easier to line up if you’re framing it yourself – best to take in your print if this is the first time you’ve done this and they can make sure there is a good fit when they do the cuts) and really, that’s all there is to it.  If you just get a plain white cut mat with no fancy stacking…it’s about $5-7 (which is definitely less than the pre-cut mats!)

Why not just mount the print?
You could…but if you want me to leave you a personal note on the back, you’ll never see it again…mounting can prove to be a pain in the long run because it will be fully adhered to another surface.  In archival framing, the mats are not glued to the piece or backing, but are hinged to the backing with tape.  If you want to choose a proper mat board and don’t want to spend the money on cotton fiber museum board, choose Conservation or Archival Mat Board.  It is constructed of 100% pure high alpha cellulose (wood pulp) and treated to be inert for up to 300 years. This is the highest quality paper matboard available.

Why don’t you just sign the front of the print then?
I do.  If you choose that option when ordering, I will definitely hand-sign the piece on the front.  When you select a signed piece…I often write a private, personal note on the back for you, too.  If you want my personal note to you ON THE FRONT of your print, be sure to select the option for “White Border” when choosing your print so that it leaves me some room to write you a message.  Just be sure to make that special request in the comments section when checking out. The great news is that a white border piece saves you money over ordering a full-bleed, edge to edge print.  

Can I buy more than one print with this month’s special and still get the two for one?
Absolutely.  For every print you purchase, you get another one for FREE.  No limits on quantities…but this is for retail (not wholesale) purchases only and is not retroactive to previous purchases.

Well, I guess that’s it for now…

Spring is in the air.  So, I sure hope you have a fantastic week full of sunshine!

Win Weekly Giveaway #2 – SMART Collection Designer Art Cufflinks

Win something for your sweetie or yourself for Valentine’s Day!  This week, in celebration of our 4 Year Anniversary – Sugarluxe is GIVING AWAY three, no wait, I’m feeling REALLY GENEROUS – let’s do four pairs of our designer art cufflinks. 4 Pairs for 4 Years.

In fact, if you’ve been to the Sugarluxe site recently, you’ll notice that two of the designs offered on the contest this week are NOT yet available for purchase.  So, you might be the very FIRST to sport our newest cufflinks.

All four winners selected will get one pair of Sugarluxe Cufflinks of their choice.  (Please see the image on this post for the choices available).  Offered are the two best selling pairs…and two not yet released pairs.

You get to pick whichever you like best.

It took quite a bit of time to design the perfect frame for these tiny little pieces of art. More importantly, and true to the brand, we work very hard to develop unique gift items that showcase our commitment to top quality craftsmanship with surprising affordability. No easy feat in these trying economic times.

Cufflinks are perfect for that someone who seems to have everything…

I know there won’t be enough time to get these out to the winners before Valentine’s Day.  But to help, I’m going to change it up just a bit.  This week, the contest will end on Friday the 13th at midnight.   The winners will be announced and posted here on Valentine’s Day.

As a way of thanking our super awesome friends…I thought I would do a weekly contest and give away some unique goodies that you can’t get anywhere else. No purchase is necessary to win.  And if you have any questions about HOW TO ENTER  – be sure to check out the official rules.

The cufflink artwork is created using our proprietary pro-formulated soft luster pigments and then carefully fired into a thick and durable glass-composite onto the base of a polished silver rhodium finish.

Your SMART cufflinks are presented in our custom black cufflink box with velvet lining and padded flip-top made specifically for displaying these tiny works of art.  Retail Value is $39 USD.

Find out who the WINNERS were of last week’s FREEBIES.

——————————————————–  WINNER’S ANNOUNCED ——————————————————–

UPDATE February 14, 2009:

Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone!

Because I hope you are off enjoying your weekend and not working online like me (plus I need to take a little time out today, too) – I thought I would make this week’s selection of winners as easy as possible.

This week’s contest winners, often like in life, are FIRST COME – FIRST SERVED.  If you were one of the first four to respond, you WIN!

And with that – here are the winners of the SMART Collection Designer Cufflinks:

1. Juli A. – Greenville, TX
2. Shannon C. – Barrie, ON Canada
3. Stean P. – Dallas, TX
4. Chic Gal (Beth A.) – Tulsa, OK

Please use our Contact Form to send us your cufflink design selection and shipping information!

1. Love You Cufflinks (black and white floral)
2. Cocktail Cufflinks (blue martini)
3. Celebrity Pin-Up Cufflinks (sexy blonde)
4. Rock Candy Cufflinks (guitar girl)

Please allow time for the production of your new cufflinks – as they are made to order.

Thanks so much to everyone who participated. I hope you’ll check back on Monday to see the NEW PRIZES for next week’s GIVEAWAYS.  More winners to come…

Win Weekly Giveaway #1 – Art & Soul Swarovski Crystal Mirror Compact

WIN this dual mirror compact for yourself or your girlfriend - just in time for Valentine’s Day!

This design, originally created for the Art & Soul Showcase to benefit the Austin Children’s Shelter, has never before been offered on one of our Sugarluxe Compacts.

I have ONLY made THREE of these compacts for this very special occasion…and these pretty little accessories will go to THREE LUCKY WINNERS in this week’s current giveaway contest to celebrate our 4th Anniversary at Sugarluxe.

Sugarluxe launched on February 14th, 2005 and it sure has been a wild world filled with sweet surPRIZES ever since.

As a way of thanking our super awesome friends…I thought I would do a weekly contest and give away some unique goodies that you can’t get anywhere else. No purchase is necessary to win.  And if you have any questions about HOW TO ENTER  – be sure to check out the official rules.

This week’s FREEBIE is a Limited Edition (of 3).  How do ya like that for super limited – Hot Pink Tattoo Heart Mirror Compact.

Each compact is made right here in the Sugarluxe Studio and is meticulously crafted and dipped in silver.  The double mirror cosmetic compact is then coated with a protective layer of lacquer to help prevent tarnish.

The artwork is created using soft luster pigments and fired into a durable glass-composite.

Your FREE PRIZE will arrive wrapped in tissue, placed in a plastic sleeve, inserted into a white Sugarluxe Logo gift box with a velvet drawstring pouch for safe keeping.  Retail Value is $34 USD.

Made just for you – with all my Art & Soul.

Oh yes – and be sure to subscribe via email and leave a comment if you’d like to win.  This week’s contest will end at midnight on February 7th.  Winners will be listed on this post on Sunday.  THANKS!

——————————————————–  WINNER’S ANNOUNCED ——————————————————–

It’s Sunday night and the Winner’s Names have been drawn!

But first, I had to make my way over to my Facebook page.  I made a wall post and requested that someone (who did not enter the contest) pick three numbers between 1 and 93.

1. That’s officially the number of entries we had including comments here, extra credits for blog entries and facebook posts.
2. Thank goodness my diplomatic friend, Melanie Spencer, who just left the Austin American Statesman last week for her new job as Press Secretary to Texas First Lady, Anita Perry – responded to my request and posted three random numbers on my Facebook Wall.
3. Here’s what she wrote:  2, 6, and 60.

And with that – here are the Winners of the Art & Soul Compacts:

1. Elisa B. – Austin, TX
2. Stacy C. – New York, NY
3. Deb D. – Dublin, OH

Please use our Contact Form to send us your shipping information!

Thanks so much to everyone who participated. I hope you’ll check back tomorrow to see the NEW PRIZES for this week’s GIVEAWAYS.  More winners to come…

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