Mandatory Abstinence

From time to time, I make myself go through mandatory abstinence from jewelry making. Not so much from playing with gemstones or pretty chain or sparkling crystals, but more from the actual making of pieces. I’m always sort of torn about these obligatory vacations I take from my workshop since there’s a part of me that really enjoys the work and hustle and bustle of filling orders and keeping my Etsy shop full and happy. But then there’s the other part of me that screams the need for a bit of creative recharging. And so, even if I have projects I’d like to work on, I take a week (once or twice a year) to renew my spirit and find new inspiration.

Instead, I take the hours I’d normally dedicate to filling orders and making pieces to do other things. I read books (or should I say, finish the books I’ve been a quarter or a third of the way into for the last four months). I visit with friends and share stories over vanilla lattes poured into wide-mouthed mugs. I head to the beaches and watch the waves roll into the shore, listening to the symphony of each crest crash. I walk the streets of downtown and window shop for hours, no destination or plan in mind. I take pictures of people and places and interesting things. I eat good food and sleep a bit longer than usual.

I carry a book with me, wherever I go, when I’m on my mini sabbatical. It’s a black, leather bound moleskin notebook with an elastic band that keeps it shut. It has no lines and the edges and binding are beginning to show the wear and tear it suffers, being jostled around in my canvas and leather bag all day. It’s here that I jot down notes on stories or sights, drawings of shapes and pieces that may or may not come to fruition. I keep it with me while I wander the streets of downtown or sit upon the cliffs of the ocean and by my bed when I lay my head to rest each night.

So that's what I'll be doing while I'm away, though I hopefully will have some time to send you some pictures of my glorious home town, San Diego.

If I don't see you for a few days, I hope you all are reveling in the joys of the season and spending time with those nearest and dearest to you.

Happy holidays!

C.