A Rough Start to 2025

2025 has started out rough. I’ve been under the weather for three days now and don’t have the energy for much of anything. Thankfully my Republic of Tea order arrived the other day and I’ve been able to enjoy steaming mugs of “Turmeric and Cinnamon” and “Bold Black Chai.”

I have been trying to get a little bit of store work done, but besides having no energy I lack serious motivation. I didn’t have a sale for the first five days of this new year. It felt like eternity. I shouldn’t let it get to me, but it did. There’s a pessimistic part of my brain that says “Well, that’s that then. It’s over. Might as well close up shop!” The other part of my brain told myself to “Stop whinging! Be thankful you didn’t have to deal with orders when you’re sick.”

Well now it’s Monday, an ordinary Monday, and I’ve had two orders, which is a start, finally.

I’m particularly happy the antique pages sold. They are two beautiful chromolithograph pages taken from the Owen Jones’ classic “The Grammar of Ornament” book–1800s edition (possibly1865). These pages don’t sell quickly for me, but it’s worth the effort to list them.

“The Ornament of Grammar” book is a fabulous feast for the eyes with design motifs from around the world. There are newer versions of the book, but to find one from the 1800s is a treasure and worth some $$$.

Years and years ago I bought a number of the Jones’ pages (from various eBay sellers) because I fancied them. Always planned on getting them framed. Two got framed and the rest have sat in an archival box. I’ve slowly been listing them.

Currently for sale

Unlisted pages

I still have over 10 unlisted pages and these two are my favorites–Renaissance and Persian designs. Aren’t they gorgeous? I’m still tempted to frame them!!

What’s next

I seem to be on the mend so I’m hoping to actually make it out of the house tomorrow! And I’ll also be taking down our Christmas tree though it makes our living room smell divine. I wanted to keep it up till Epiphany and I did, but Christmas sadly feels so long ago now.

So definitely not how I envisioned 2025 starting!

Hope your start is going better!

Karen