Growth

Growth is always a beautiful thing. In nature when a seed is planted and nourished by the sun, water, and soil, out of the dirt rises a beautiful blossom. However, in life, it's not always as organic and beautiful sounding. It usually comes with tears, heartache, unmet expectations and pain. Personally, this has been a season of growth. I'm just starting to see the buds of growth, the light at the end of the tunnel is in view and the growing pains, for now, have subsided. The trick is taking what you have learned during the times of growth and using it for a purpose. So, what have I learned? A couple of things. I need to put my trust and my fears in God's hands every day. I need to love unconditionally. I thought I did, but I am not there yet. I have conditions, judgments, and lofty expectations. Slowly, I'm beginning to recognize those weaknesses and I'm doing my best to change - with a whole LOT of Jesus!

My family was extremely blessed to have our first foster placement last month. A brand new ( from the hospital) baby. We had him for only a short time, but we are forever changed for the better by the whole experience. I do not have words for how amazing, hard and absolutely beautiful the process is. All I can say is that if you have ever even thought about fostering- do it! Just take the classes. Call your local DCYF you are needed!

So how's business? GROWING! ​​

Joy & James is becoming the business I've always dreamed of. I've never been afraid of hard work, but I've always been aware and a little fearful of my physical limitations in regards to work. I was diagnosed with Lupus at 16, I don't remember a day without it, it has never defined me, but the truth is, it's always there. Some days I don't even notice, others- it's obvious. I was worried when I set out on this journey that I would do too much or stress-out too much and it would cause a flare of the disease. Having a business in my home has allowed me the freedom to create on my own time, the flexibility to manage my disease, and for that, I'm truly grateful.

Earlier in the summer, I extended the last two Nurture Collection pieces, The Molly and The Mikayla (both very successful) so I could take the time to organize the business, spend time at museums, gardens, time in nature... All of those activities have inspired my newest designs. The designs for this season are colorful, a mix of styles and elements and I'm definitely bringing the funk :)

Now until my fall show (September, 8th/11:00-3:00), I am creating. A. WHOLE. NEW. LINE. I'm putting my heart and soul into this show and I hope you will come to take a look. Open studios are a great time to test a product. Some of the designs I will have will be just for the show and others will become permanent items on my website:

www.joyandjames.com. Which means... I will have (some) of last season’s items at a discount. I can't wait to see you there! As always it will be a family event filled with jewelry, friends, and a whole lot of laughter!

The Nurture collection is back mid-October. I have asked previous Nurture Collection designers to nominate a young woman who inspires them. I can't wait!

Blessings,

Amy