Extra, Extra, read all about it! I've been published!!!

Wow, it has been a very long time since I've posted!  Life has been crazy. Just when I think things are going to settle down -  WHAM!!!!! along comes the next crisis.  Well, life happens.   

I know I'm not the only one, so I'll just keep on plugging along! I'll even try to put a smile on my face as I do, to trick myself into thinking things are just ducky!

I have some exciting news to share. I am in the newest issue of Stuffed Magazine.  I created a little doll named Roxie and her little dog named Doxie.  Actually, it started out when I saw this bright teal fabric with red polka dots, and I just knew I had to make a little dog out of it.  And the little dog must be wearing a red tutu. (Yes, I realize I may not be right in the head).  I also knew the dog had to be a wiener dog.  Ever since I met Andrea from The Cottage Market with that darling little dog on her graphics, I have wanted to create a little wiener dog. Then I needed to create a little girl to love her and take her to her dance lessons.  Thus Roxie and Doxie were created.

I'm so excited to be creating patterns once again.  I designed and sold patterns many years ago and really enjoyed it.  I feel blessed to be able to do something I love and hopefully bring in a little extra income. I needed the flexibility of working for myself because I care for my mom, who is homebound, as well as keeping the home fires burning.    

Nowadays, instead of having to print them up and send them snail mail, patterns are created as PDF documents and they can be ordered online and downloaded instantly. Amazing.  I love it. Not that I don't appreciate my mailman, but I love not having to wait! My friend Donna, from Donna's Lavender Nest also just published her first quilt pattern.  It is so cute - check it out!


I'm must admit that the only part I don't absolutely LOVE is trying to write up the patterns.  For me the hardest part is putting them into words.  I am really determined to make these patterns fun to look at, user friendly, beginner friendly, and the absolute best patterns out there. It has been a bit challenging, with so many things to do and learn, like the publishing software, and it has taken tons of time. That's me, running around going crazy!  

I was told the magazine would be out July 1, but yesterday I spotted it in Barnes and Noble.  As usual, I am running late.  But it's okay, I am almost done with Doxie's pattern, and Roxie's pattern will follow shortly.  I will be selling them on Etsy, Craftsy, and my own web page, ricracandpolkadots.com. They should be ready to purchase very soon, hopefully within the week.  Then I can relax and catch my breath before I start turning more of my designs into patterns. 
I hope God will bless my efforts.  Any of you who would like to throw out a little prayer for me, please do.  I would appreciate it.  My husband will be retiring very soon due to health issues and I need to step up and try to earn some income for our family.  

I already know many of you out there are going to be so happy for me and excited right along with me, and I want you to know that makes me feel like a very lucky girl!  See, there you are in the picture up above, ready to celebrate! A special thanks to my friend Meri from Imagimeris for her generosity in sharing all these wonderful vintage images.   
 I also would like to thank my sweet friend Keren from Free Pretty Things For You who designed my new graphics.  She has  taken so much time and care to design the perfect images for me and has once again exceeded my expectations. Thank you Keren, you're the best!