tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74073778553289740352024-02-21T09:38:26.104-08:00EmeraldCut | The Introverted Writer BlogEmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.comBlogger643125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-30327186812015344052021-12-25T00:21:00.006-08:002021-12-25T00:28:37.450-08:00Thank You<p>These past few years have been a wary blur, but with myopic vision comes a clarity within that radiates like sunlight ripping across open water. It glides, glistens, and just as fast as you catch it, with a new cloud treading across the wind-blown sky, that clarity evaporates into nothingness. And then, curiously, you see it again in a new shape, somewhat similar but also quite unique in itself. Clarity does that to you sometimes.</p><p>This year especially has been a lot like that. 2021 saw the growth of my writing services and clients' interest in my writing process as a whole, which in turn made me realize that a lot of my writing is intuition based. A clarity from within. A voice that beckons truth and storytelling, a poetic turn of phrase and a hard-won rendering of what is rather than what should be.</p><p>2021 also brought the deepest acts of kindness that I will never forget. A longtime customer kindly and without a need for reciprocation sending a gift; a thoughtful-soul musician offering the magical gift of song for my child; loved ones stepping up without judgment in times needed; the most honest reviews of my work (good and bad...); words of encouragement in moments where I lose my field of vision. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1028141308/old-soul-amulet-bookmark-hand-stamped?click_key=3ae99b3e8b6f4a9cf8bd92f1a16a1fc5e384fd97%3A1028141308&click_sum=2dff4b06&ref=shop_home_active_8&pro=1&frs=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2020" data-original-width="1756" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKvP-i-ONWt4791WlD06CqV9uGvscUKoDFbdyP-VVuxyxwiETPIs6tj6jZ9jR6gqWJiTIWtpEirOrfoYdks3bXnmSi6vVAn8Kx4UUM5n78TTPjA8P3okTocBy081uTWGKNyKG_SbxaxAB4kOGY8Ds4b140_j9nh96HHo7fERghFcfwoM_Pi5b_bjF9=s320" width="278" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p><p>It glides, glistens, and just as fast as you catch it, it curiously takes on a new shape, borrows a new hat, but is quite evidently still itself. Clarity. Following my intuition, that inner guide. Rooting, unfolding, bellowing from the cavernous spaces in between the real and the unreal, it grows, this myopia, into something quite magical in itself.</p><p><br /></p><p>(Dedicated to bell hooks and Joan Didion)<br /></p>EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-66080946779979335352021-12-13T11:54:00.005-08:002021-12-13T11:54:48.665-08:00One <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CbfavJHEpk0" width="320" youtube-src-id="CbfavJHEpk0"></iframe></div><p></p><p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbfavJHEpk0">MILCK | One</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-67357188959145171632021-08-09T14:56:00.002-07:002021-08-09T14:56:35.556-07:00Gold in Dark Times<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjmRXk4_Sn4/YRGj8fs2NdI/AAAAAAAAGiE/QYtQN_NXf2Uo302vEQzSqzKfZs8R_9LVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/229166466_372857147544923_3409566135235545413_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjmRXk4_Sn4/YRGj8fs2NdI/AAAAAAAAGiE/QYtQN_NXf2Uo302vEQzSqzKfZs8R_9LVgCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/229166466_372857147544923_3409566135235545413_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-19611455960304897892021-02-27T09:17:00.004-08:002021-02-27T09:17:32.823-08:002021<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/927513969/teeny-tiny-new-year-2021-journals" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1635" data-original-width="1287" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lqbCUGhC32s/YDp5Et2wT1I/AAAAAAAAGeY/GdmMCsZ7e1ET1JxTN3QoLG4UhIsADizRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/2020-12-18_15.34.14.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p>Hi everyone, I hope you are well. It's been a long time since I've written here, for a proliferation of reasons, but I have missed chronicling my creative thoughts here. So, for 2021, that will be something I plan to do more of. What a crazy past 12 months! </p><p>Above are a set of 2 mini 2021 journals for sale in my <a href="http://www.emeraldcut.etsy.com">shop</a>. I made them at the close of last year in anticipation of the challenges and beauty of the upcoming year - the culmination of social distancing, enlightenment, stress, and yes, the extreme highs and lows of 2020. It feels like it's been a lifetime.</p><p>Thank you for being here with me. Even after 11 years (I now, right??), I am still thrown into a flurry of excitement and joy when I receive an order. Your support is so deeply appreciated. This year, I'll be sharing more here about what's been creatively dear to my heart, what I call this heartbeat, because I feel that that's all we can do right now. Live by every heartbeat and every breath. Thankful for the little things. </p><p><br /></p>EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-70966739088411151362020-10-26T14:50:00.004-07:002020-10-26T14:50:45.944-07:00They Say<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRayemusic%2Fvideos%2F2826117844298199%2F&show_text=false&width=476" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe>EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-47131365119758703202020-09-01T14:44:00.008-07:002020-09-01T14:44:44.468-07:002020 Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zn5Dxpp2DII/X07Aog5LT9I/AAAAAAAAGcw/gmJj51FY2MUwXqKeNiylxls6sP59k32swCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/118308292_10224949932722561_2927498446479371339_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="544" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zn5Dxpp2DII/X07Aog5LT9I/AAAAAAAAGcw/gmJj51FY2MUwXqKeNiylxls6sP59k32swCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/118308292_10224949932722561_2927498446479371339_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-69133004840943504732020-07-13T13:39:00.000-07:002020-07-13T13:39:22.917-07:00<h4>
<a href="https://sfpl.org/books-and-media/san-francisco-poet-laureate/poem-of-the-day/poem-day-archive">Awake by Sara Biel</a></h4>
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I surface<br />
Breach watery daze of dawn<br />
Cringe deeper<br />
Nestle into a nest of wolves<br />
Thoughts scatter<br />
A pattern of white caps<br />
Do these marks mean anything to you?<br />
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My heart falls open<br />
A vulnerable atlas<br />
Archive of failure<br />
Of rocky tumbles<br />
Washed in ruminating waves<br />
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I come unmoored<br />
Wander the lacy vacancy<br />
At the core of my bones<br />
Visit secrets I keep from myself<br />
Memories I banished before<br />
They were breathed into being<br />
I float the endless looping hallways<br />
My thoughts echo<br />
Distant sound of windows breaking<br />
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I regret the time I’ve lost to this maze<br />
Doubt seductive as a riptide<br />
A legacy that leaves me<br />
Twisted still<br />
With too many words<br />
No sound to set them sail<br />
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There are small moments<br />
I come up for air<br />
Slapped awake by the view from<br />
This damp shadow<br />
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How long have I been dancing?<br />
Whose blood stains my shoes?<br />
EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-42043745467474097342020-07-05T13:25:00.004-07:002020-07-05T13:25:47.798-07:00Build A House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-19140962243688008612020-06-01T14:58:00.000-07:002020-06-01T14:58:20.302-07:00Stand <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-29088767946821334732020-04-02T14:40:00.000-07:002020-04-02T22:43:09.912-07:00It's a Weird World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a weird world right now. My toddler told me that she thinks she's scared of Coronavirus. It was an innocent confession, fraught with concern, made during the second time my husband and I had discussed the topic several weeks ago before much of the pandemonium began. Much to my heart's dismay. It was the first big news coverage of the virus in the US. Being a sensitive family in this time is not easy, but there is a silver lining in this articulation of fear. The silver lining, I believe, is in voicing our thoughts, our ideas for living in this weird period of self-isolation.<br />
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I've read so many accounts from parents who are trying to make things work, to continue on with life <i>now</i> like it was pre-Covid-19. It cannot be done. In truth, we have come to another historical era deeply steeped in reality. With this pandemic, I believe we are unlearning our unproductive ways of thinking that revolved heavily on self-promotion and superficial social interaction and networking. The magic now lies in more introverted, sensitive ways of doing, of being. We are now teaching our children via how we manage daily life while physically sequestered away from others; learning is now hands-on and more spontaneous. In theory, at least. I like to think that in our boredom we find new ways of seeing. More empathy and compassion in that we are staying in to protect the most vulnerable in our population. And honestly, I'm loving it. <br />
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My husband sent me an article from <i>The New York Times </i>about how children don't need traditional academic instruction during this time, but rather, engaged and loving parents:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">For those who are lucky enough to have a stable home life, this period
won’t be easy — on them or on their children. Children who are prone to
anxiety may find this period especially challenging. But all the experts
I spoke to emphasized that routine and simple affection are important.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I want to add that parenting means different things to different people. We are just trying to survive and we will. We will and are trying our best in the eyes of fear. It terrifies me that the only tangible reference point we have to compare this worldwide upheaval</span><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">to is: WWII. We need to remember that with this virus, we are at war with a virus - not with people. That, I think, is vital to our mindset as parents and as a collective society when it comes to raising our children during Covid-19 and beyond. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Awareness is our lifeline. Hate has no place here. </span><br />
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No more poignant than today. I posted this poem a handful of years ago on this blog, and felt it was appropriate right now. Stay safe and healthy!<br />
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-51343744905299450012020-01-17T17:22:00.000-08:002020-01-17T17:24:49.546-08:00Happy Belated New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy belated new-year 2020. Goodness, I still write "2019" on everything. It's been quiet here, but I wanted to share a few custom pieces I made today while the little one slept in. Both pieces are hand-stamped metal: one a baby spoon, the other a writer's talisman pendant. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KEf1SYJgsUA/XiJP1jbo6VI/AAAAAAAAGak/tAs4hPlbzd43hZD8MPgkD-kxrU7QyPmaACEwYBhgL/s1600/WriteMoreCopper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KEf1SYJgsUA/XiJP1jbo6VI/AAAAAAAAGak/tAs4hPlbzd43hZD8MPgkD-kxrU7QyPmaACEwYBhgL/s320/WriteMoreCopper.jpg" width="239" /> </a></div>
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This <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/681553636/writers-gift-rustic-stamped-talisman">Write More talisman pendant </a>was created to be a good-luck piece for writers. I can stamp either solid copper or brass. Each letter is individually stamped by hand, and hammer marks are visible on the front and back where I've hammered the piece. My creative process in making this talisman mirrors the writer's process itself, sometimes imperfect but always necessary. <br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/628865589/hand-stamped-name-baby-spoon-stainless">Custom stamped baby/toddler spoon</a> - stainless steel, made in the USA, and safe for your little one. My toddler has used this particular spoon brand since she started eating solids. Great quality and design. I can stamp a first name on the spoon handle. Spoon available in coated or noncoated.</div>
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-2808598904744735382019-12-26T14:49:00.001-08:002019-12-26T14:51:36.839-08:00They're BackHope you all had a wonderful holiday. I have some shop-related news: some of my favorite bookish items are back in <a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/">shop</a>! I enjoyed creating these bookish beauties, which showcase old book pages along with lots of handmade love and personalization.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157500792/custom-short-hand-stamped-quote-on-book?ref=shop_home_active_4&pro=1&frs=1"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/157500792/custom-short-hand-stamped-quote-on-book?ref=shop_home_active_4&pro=1&frs=1" border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp3dRCFScLA/XgUwzRYfhmI/AAAAAAAAGZw/dxhFWTcib1060c6mRImecLStVhp4Pgj3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_fullxfull.482770656_4vmg.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166125161/ooak-book-page-words-ooak-free-spirit?ref=shop_home_active_6&pro=1&frs=1"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166125161/ooak-book-page-words-ooak-free-spirit?ref=shop_home_active_6&pro=1&frs=1" border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1237" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-4htoO2RLw/XgUw1WkpZSI/AAAAAAAAGZ4/BDIjuMAxABs6_I8Wm13T4oZnAsu2xl8EQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_fullxfull.700355463_37ke.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I created this one-of-a-kind poem on a smooth birch slice using tiny vintage book-page words cut from an old copy of my favorite text, <i>Jane Eyre</i>. A sprig is stamped under the poem for a thoughtful visual contrast. This is a delicate piece - no protective sealant, so you can see the book-page texture atop the smoothness of the wood slice. <br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223837139/the-catcher-in-the-rye-upcycled-book?ref=shop_home_active_3&pro=1&frs=1"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223837139/the-catcher-in-the-rye-upcycled-book?ref=shop_home_active_3&pro=1&frs=1" border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUAxrb-UCIA/XgUw1Qvj63I/AAAAAAAAGZ8/jA2iQKiL08MrW2n2bX4zvz2j2DMvnbqzQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_fullxfull.732292652_mh2p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/265912459/small-origami-heart-bookmarks-with?ref=shop_home_active_5&pro=1&frs=1"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/265912459/small-origami-heart-bookmarks-with?ref=shop_home_active_5&pro=1&frs=1" border="0" data-original-height="1346" data-original-width="1500" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PElZbrVKDw4/XgUw2BEciAI/AAAAAAAAGaA/qP_3NLwFwHwLMezq3d6mbZDXIk5CYwboQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_fullxfull.912186515_35vg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Small origami book-page heart bookmarks stamped with your initials - lovely for weddings and engagements, and as a girlfriend/boyfriend gift. Each heart is cut, folded, glued, and stamped by me. A tassel completes the piece. Can be used as a unique door or window hang, too.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/749349464/tiny-ampersand-pendant-talisman-copper?ref=shop_home_active_7&pro=1"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/749349464/tiny-ampersand-pendant-talisman-copper?ref=shop_home_active_7&pro=1" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1417" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qc5JI7EyHNo/XgUw1REEXPI/AAAAAAAAGZ0/7A3SzZFMehwc_LwPh_wffUjIdf2FON8jACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_fullxfull.2173137737_d3b3.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
This last piece was from a customer's request: a tiny ampersand pendant talisman. It's a twist on my tiny stamped initials pendant found <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/651098988/tiny-stamped-initials-pendant-talisman?ref=shop_home_active_2&pro=1">here</a>. In addition to being a reminder of one's love, it doubles as a little good-luck memento for writers and thinkers.<br />
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This past fall marked my Etsy shop's ninth year. Can you believe it? Almost a decade in business. When I started out, I wanted to create an outlet for my artistic endeavors, which at that time was jewelry making. Now I stamped metal, create book-page goods, and most importantly, offer writing services. I often omit discussing the latter, but it is the work that is, in truth, my heart's work. My soul. </div>
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I began offering writing services after earning my MA back in 2013. It was a time of transition, as my prolonged college years came to an end, and I also experience the profound loss of a loved one whose zest for books surpassed my own. His vast book collection is now my own - I've documented it on this blog in posts from 2013. I write like I think: a little different than others. My writing style differs from others in that it is highly nuanced and sensitive, acerbic and witty. I relish the classic works. I think deeply. And try to breathe deeply, too. Motherhood.</div>
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So to you, my blog readers, thank you for reading. The best to you in 2020.</div>
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-71734328142319546372019-12-06T14:25:00.001-08:002019-12-06T14:25:13.904-08:00Holiday Delivery Deadlines<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">Christmas is only 2.5 weeks away... </span></div>
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US buyers place your orders before 12/15 for timely holiday delivery. </div>
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Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee when international orders will be delivered.</div>
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Thank you for your support this holiday season!<br /><b></b></div>
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<b>Shop: <a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/">emeraldcut.etsy.com</a></b></div>
EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-67619153203443743522019-11-28T22:59:00.000-08:002019-11-28T22:59:02.852-08:00Commas Matter <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXXBsDxpyQs/XeDBQbdqVMI/AAAAAAAAGZM/cM6nRW4gWGInJK2hWokFaGrOFf-pNMVbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/il_794xN.869306133_qgma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="794" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXXBsDxpyQs/XeDBQbdqVMI/AAAAAAAAGZM/cM6nRW4gWGInJK2hWokFaGrOFf-pNMVbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/il_794xN.869306133_qgma.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/256344751/witty-writer-gift-small-punctuation-tags">Small Punctuation Hang Tags</a> (for sale in shop)</td></tr>
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Loved <a href="https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20180723-the-commas-that-cost-companies-millions">this article </a>on how the exclusion a common punctuation mark, the comma, makes a rather costly difference in the meaning of a sentence. Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!<br />
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-75133139329693064722019-11-04T10:42:00.001-08:002019-11-04T10:42:33.887-08:00New Work: Raw Point Pendants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Guess what? I made some jewelry. These three raw point pendants are the first pieces of jewelry I've made in a few years. I'll be adding them to my <a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a> once I finish editing the photos. See more of these, and related work, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmeraldCut?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&search_query=point+pendant">here</a>.</div>
EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-16178503389620343982019-10-07T14:44:00.001-07:002019-10-07T14:44:26.942-07:00Work of the Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello blog, it's really been awhile. Motherhood will do that to you. You blink and your child is now three years old. You blink and your Etsy shop, once a quiet vessel of life, is semi-busy again with orders after a long, long drought. Life has currently been on less of a time warp and more on an ebb-and-flow continuum, as life goes. <br />
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I recently sold these tiny labors of love: book-page phrase gift boxes. Each box top features tiny words cut by hand and a pair of scissors from a copy of <i>Jane Eyre</i>, my favorite book. I then rearranged the words and made poetic or thoughtful phrases. I had made these boxes years ago when I wanted to stand out from the mass-produced crowd, when I wanted to be creative in my own resourceful way. So happy they have found a perfect home! <br />
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Is it weird to talk about one's work in that respect? As if the work themselves are, indeed, real? <br />
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<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-15868479559718908092019-08-06T15:41:00.000-07:002019-08-06T15:42:13.620-07:00Toddlerhood<div class="css-1dbjc4n r-18u37iz r-thb0q2 r-19yat4t" data-testid="tweet">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="css-901oao css-16my406 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0">Motherhood is fast, volatile, complacent. Foot in mouth, covered with kisses, love. Emotions multiplied by infinite hugs, feedings, sleepless nights. Foggy mindedness and giggles, a little one's voice in your ear calling, "Mama, mama." Fast, so fast, that baby smell now gone.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="css-901oao css-16my406 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0"> <span style="font-size: small;">(From when I was inspired and a little less sleep-deprived.)</span></span></span></div>
EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-51102611239823837142019-06-23T17:48:00.002-07:002019-06-23T17:49:06.265-07:00Nature Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span aria-hidden="false" id="react-root"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-innEL0vIIcM/XRAdfgSsMBI/AAAAAAAAGXg/Bhjzt5s7VBgmV0-oYiIigP6Gr0_uLtnOACLcBGAs/s1600/Walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="588" height="386" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-innEL0vIIcM/XRAdfgSsMBI/AAAAAAAAGXg/Bhjzt5s7VBgmV0-oYiIigP6Gr0_uLtnOACLcBGAs/s400/Walk.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ectiwshop">Instagram </a>account</td></tr>
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<span aria-hidden="false" id="react-root">I enjoy the anonymity of
visiting less-traveled public spaces, exploring their nooks and
crannies, getting lost in the surreal nature of their very existence. My
little girl is often my sidekick on these adventures; occasionally a
friend joins in. But the experience, even if my anonymity is no longer
viable, is always a soul-stirring moment. I rarely capture the true
essence of a scene, but I proved myself wrong with this capture.</span><br />
<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-87334995313227219512019-05-18T17:17:00.000-07:002019-06-23T17:45:16.440-07:00New Shop Banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a rainy day, my toddler is actually napping and mama cat-napped for a bit, even after two cups of coffee. It's been a long day. And I realized that this blog is in dire need of an update - so here it is. Recently, I've added a few items to the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmeraldCut?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=24303412">stamped spoons and talismans section</a> of my Etsy shop. I'm excited about this new direction in my work. As a result, I've decided to clear out my handmade jewelry line, so you'll find unique pieces at hugely discounted prices. Each piece of jewelry is never remade and is truly one of a kind (especially my conceptual pieces). My destash gem collection has yet to be sorted through, but once I have the time to sort and photograph I'll be adding these to the shop as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-8ZyYcKC95WUtliyDkQiwDRVpwb3lqX4uBSs6cloNNg9N7cMYbdn0jvODFyP_K7lRPwAzsmeiECAo5fYjEdpbV6Hkivo4loJHQ61kf8VJKvfZ7lRIjoKg3vzPt56H19FjUVhJ-1aG7c/s1600/Shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="1389" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-8ZyYcKC95WUtliyDkQiwDRVpwb3lqX4uBSs6cloNNg9N7cMYbdn0jvODFyP_K7lRPwAzsmeiECAo5fYjEdpbV6Hkivo4loJHQ61kf8VJKvfZ7lRIjoKg3vzPt56H19FjUVhJ-1aG7c/s640/Shop.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My toddler is now reading, fiercely and intensely, and has her very own library card. Yet she's definitely still a toddler in many ways (the occasional ear-splitting meltdown, anyone?). We all read all these overarching romanticized narratives about motherhood - plus the ones that we can relate to - about the numbing exhaustion, toddler (and mama...) meltdowns, and the permeating nature of mama brain. Making three food choices and your kid saying no to each one. But that smile, when she chooses to do so, warms my mama heart. Again and again. <i>That</i> I can wholeheartedly relate to - even as I roll my eyes while scrolling through Instagram's deluge of happy smiley mama and kids.<br />
<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-46797916875073986652019-01-31T19:36:00.002-08:002019-01-31T19:36:36.828-08:00Featured on Bookish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7iHaRQMnXs/XFO90NqlHeI/AAAAAAAAGWE/pvnPFoLjGmsH_AMdys4RW5i35FsOEW0WACLcBGAs/s1600/il_fullxfull.548283410_4j44-700x525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7iHaRQMnXs/XFO90NqlHeI/AAAAAAAAGWE/pvnPFoLjGmsH_AMdys4RW5i35FsOEW0WACLcBGAs/s400/il_fullxfull.548283410_4j44-700x525.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Guess what? My stamped book-page hearts were featured on<a href="https://www.bookish.com/articles/valentines-day-gift-guide"> Bookish.com</a>! Valentine's Day edition, of course. Even though I'm an old-time Etsy seller, I'm still surprised when my work is noticed. Order now for V-day delivery. Shop these<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174993022/valentines-day-book-page-origami-hearts"> here</a>.EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-69435595115107897672019-01-03T14:10:00.004-08:002019-01-03T14:18:58.778-08:00Happy New Year <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy new year! <br />
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I have many ideas this year for my<b> <a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/">shop</a></b>, namely mama-and-child items with a delightfully bookish twist. Book pages, pendants, and talismans. Letter stamps and texture. Revisiting my roots, some of my favorite novels will be the inspirations for this new-ish shop direction. </div>
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My ideas are still in the beginning stages, and my toddler rarely naps, so thanks for your patience! Check back soon here and on <a href="http://instagram.com/ectiwshop">Instagram</a> for sneak peeks.</div>
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EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-48608058926250639262018-12-04T15:48:00.001-08:002018-12-04T15:49:35.965-08:00Shop NewsI've spoken on this subject a little on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ectiwshop">Instagram</a>, but wanted to share more about my thought process here. Etsy, as a venue for independent sellers of handmade goods, has changed so much in the last handful of years - mostly, it has become more commercialized. Mass consumerism has arrived in full force, and I will not undervalue the quality of my work or creative process. But things change; we evolve.<br />
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Since becoming a mother, my top priorities have been rearranged. Being a mother comes first, and then everything else. My shop will stay open, though. New offerings will be added sporadically. Here is a recent order for a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/628865589/hand-stamped-name-baby-spoon-stainless">stamped custom baby spoon</a>, made from US steel in the USA, and hand stamped freehand by me. <br />
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For holiday orders, US orders must be placed by 12/14 for ready-to-ship items. The international orders deadline has passed. I deeply appreciate your support this holiday season!<br />
<br />EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-62518791069041941302018-11-17T13:46:00.001-08:002018-11-17T13:46:02.169-08:00Holiday Shop Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> * Holiday shop sale *</span></div>
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Sale on selected items, as marked. </div>
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Shop:<a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/"> emeraldcut.etsy.com</a></div>
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EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7407377855328974035.post-32432228033838884092018-10-13T16:41:00.002-07:002018-10-13T16:41:39.914-07:00Mama, I Got You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7sr3LytpHI/W8KCXKdjNhI/AAAAAAAAGVI/yQjm1JwyYSsQy5FWWL07zbRRmVu4Usg_wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Mama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7sr3LytpHI/W8KCXKdjNhI/AAAAAAAAGVI/yQjm1JwyYSsQy5FWWL07zbRRmVu4Usg_wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/Mama.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I got you, mama. You got this.</div>
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Mama talisman pendant for sale in <a href="http://emeraldcut.etsy.com/">shop</a>. </div>
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EmeraldCuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03718090347689331076noreply@blogger.com0