Sharing No. 1

My blogolution for 2010......to share.

And I don't mean in the "you can have some of my french fries" kind of share.

I resolve to share some work from artists and crafters (on and off Etsy) that have motivated me, inspired me, and all that good stuff. They shared with me, so, I shall return the favor, and share them with you.

First up.....

Littleput Books

(visit her Etsy shop here)

When I first joined Etsy in Feb 2008, Ryan (aka Littleput) was one of the top sellers on Etsy, with over 10000 sales. I came across her shop while reading the Etsy forums (extremely helpful as a new Etsy seller).

I clicked on her avatar, taking me to her shop, and immediately, I was intrigued. Not only by her impressive sales, but by everything in her shop. Her photos, her items, her materials, and her packaging.

(if you remember, I am a bit of a packaging fanatic. So, I have the most utter respect for those than can design clever packaging).

I studied her shop (little did she know), and used it as a model for my own. That, combined with the great advice she doled out in the forums, made me believe that I, too could be successful on Etsy.

I am not ashamed to admit, I put her on a bit of a pedestal.

So, imagine my excitement when I discovered that she had not only hearted MY shop, but some of my items. My new, "I'm not so sure if people will like these" items.

It was validating. And, motivating.

Almost 2 years later, I am nowhere near 10000 sales, but I do consider myself successful. I pushed forward with those items (the hooks, if you're wondering). And to this day, have sold well over 500 (on and off Etsy). I have an Etsy shop full of items I am proud of. An aesthetic I am proud of. And I'm thankful.

Thank you, Ryan.

Again, check out Ryan's Etsy shop. Lots of good goods (and VERY clever packaging)!

Snow Day

That's me (in all black), competing in the A-Basin Enduro in 1998. It was a great day......10 hrs of skiing (black diamond, and double black diamond trails). The conditions were exceptional, and overall, we logged 55 runs (my partner, Portia, and I). I don't know what time that picture was taken, but based on my form (a little hunched over), I'm guessing it was many hours into the event.

I love to ski. I really love it.

Now that my Holiday season is over, I can focus on Winter. I awoke to 2 feet of snow this morning, happily donned my winter gear, and took Olivia (dog) for a "walk". It was really more a combination of shuffling on the plowed streets, and trudging through 3 ft drifts. It was a blast.

Now all I can think about is skiing. I don't know if I'm make a trek out West this year, but I will certainly be making a trek up North. And, I'll be doing it all with new Ski gear. Thanks to a hugely successful Holiday season, I will be treating myself to new skis and boots. It is long overdue, but much deserved.

It's easy to forget to treat myself to something this time of year. I spend so much time and energy on Tanner Glass, that I often lose sight of "me."

Today was the perfect reminder that:

1. Snow makes me happy

2. Olivia (dog) in the snow makes me happier

3. Treats are good.

Enjoy, and Happy Holidays!

Go Vote

I'm hitting the campaign trail......

The other day, I was notified that I had been selected for the Etsy Voter (Favorite Holiday Ornament). Apparently, my friend Tracy from SeaFindDesigns and SteppingStones had nominated me.

*thank you Tracy*

There's some stiff competition in this round of Ornaments......birds, owls, felt and sparkly things and more. But only one glassblower.

Why vote for me?

1. handblown glass is awesome
2. handblown glass ornaments are great year round! Hang them in your window as a suncatcher!

3. they're pretty and shiny

4. you like me (right?)

And, I won't sugar coat it......I'd like to win. So, if you'd like to see me win, please vote for me!

You can vote here

(I'd like to also say thank you to my awesome photographer, Charles Estabrooks, who took this photo a couple of years ago. He makes my work absolutely glow. To see all of the photos Charles has taken for me, you can visit my website

Worcester, here I come!

Early in 2009, I received the unfortunate news that the Worcester Center for Crafts was closing for restructuring. Not only were they a wonderful resource for education and artists, they also had a rich history of running one of the best seasonal Craft Shows.

2008 was my third year as an artist at the Festival of Crafts, and was saddened that it was probably my last opportunity to exhibit.

And then......

I got a phone call in August (many months after their usual deadline for applications for the Festival).

They were opening, and the Festival of Crafts was on!!!

*phew* *hooray*

It has made for a very busy Holiday season, as I have already done one show, and have 2 more after this one. But, stress aside, I'm so grateful to be returning.

Hope to see you there!

Friday Nov 27: 10-5

Sat Nov 28: 10-5

Sun Nov 29: 11-4

(to read more about the closing and reopening of the craft center, read here)