Check out these Etsy shops!

I've been neglecting my blog because I've been so busy with custom orders for Valentine's Day.  So I thought I would feature the work of some other Etsy sellers.  Enjoy!

MakingPaper

A brand new Etsy shop with cute cards and fantastic prices.

jamieshelman

Another fairly new shop with art that will make you smile.

mystiqueisland

Unique and colorful photographs.

justingeer

An assortment of items, including this CD - 'Songs From a Piano'.

aggieray

Quality handbags with fun fabrics and great prices.

First Impressions

What was your first impression when you saw these photos?

When I first joined Etsy and lurked in the forums, I'd constantly see threads about treasuries. I wasn't sure what the big deal was, and wondered why people called them addicting. My first impression was, wow, that seems like a waste of time.

Well, I also used to think that blogging was a waste of time, but I've found value in it. Regardless of who actually ends up reading it, if anyone.  I've also found value in creating treasuries. Searching through the shops of other artisans and compiling treasuries like the one above actually reminds me to be grateful and appreciate every day that I have. I named the one above "It's all around us."

Sweetness

I bought these from an awesome Etsy shop the other day and she is mailing them directly to my little niece for me with a card and everything!  

I have a confession to make. Sometimes I ask a lot of questions. There's nothing wrong with that, right? But sometimes people seem to get a little irritated that I want to know more about their product. Not Amy! She was so sweet answering all of my questions and then some. I loved their shop and quality craftsmanship, but ultimately I decided to purchase from littlealouette because of their great customer service.  

More than once, I've checked out at the grocery store or some other place and the cashier didn't give me so much as a glance, let alone a "hi" or "thanks." The last time was at Staples. She was busy talking to another cashier and didn't even notice I was waiting. She checked me out, the whole time her back was toward me as she continued her conversation. I paid with the little credit card swipe thingee, and grabbed my bag while I waited for the receipt. She tore it off and without turning around, just set it on the counter, without missing a beat in her conversation. I took the receipt and said "thank you." At this, she turned around and gave me a look like I had two heads!

Anyway, good customer service goes a long way, as does just being nice in general. As for my ornery self, I'm going to try to put a whole lot more good karma out into the Universe this year.