As I write this, I have been in an abnormal amount of pain. I’ve had issues with carpal tunnel for several years, but recently I took it to a whole new level by developing tendonitis in my wrist and hand (dominant hand of course). After 3 days of alternating between brace and sling, with heating pads and a lot of ibuprofen, I have finally regained 60-70% of my range of motion. I cannot lift anything heavy. I cannot twist my hand or wrist, but I have reached a recovery point where I can do simple tasks like typing again. I’m not here to complain about the woes of my aging physique, I promise.

In addition to my healing, there are other developments. I am going to be starting a new job soon, the beginning of my cubicle era. I have just received a notice for my start date. My retail job has gone well beyond nonsense as I have worked literally 10 hours in the past month. Honestly, for a mid-grade global “luxury” brand it’s a bit disappointing that they cannot, at the very least, provide hours for their employees. Soon though, that will no longer be my problem and I will be making a wage that is almost a 20% increase with guaranteed hours.

Other good news is the Etsy page (https://paperandrabbits.etsy.com) has been steady-ish. There are ups and downs, but the fact that I am making sales at least every month is a big morale boost for me. I’m always a little worried that I’ll hit a slump but so far I’ve been able to chug along with at least a couple of sales a month, enough to cover the basic fees. I’ve honestly been making as much (if not more) from it as I have from my retail position.

Spring is creeping up slowly but surely. Festival season will be starting up soon, along with events and market opportunities if I find the motivation to put myself out there. I’ll be able to work outside in the garden once the weather warms up. And I’ve finally been able to butcher and restock the freezer with meat (which is very much needed). I have been able to feel a noticeable deficiency in my diet with our empty freezer. It’s a damnable curse to be allergic to specific vitamin supplements, but luckily I have the rabbitry to provide for me. I’m also about to rebreed my does for our spring litters and I am excited for the lineup that I have. Two of my does will be focused on Silver Fox pelts and two others will be my “fun” pelt colors.

All in all, things are looking up. The dark winter is subsiding and I am optimistic for the future, myself, and everything. The last few months have been stressful in just about every way possible: emotionally, physically and financially. It’s nice to be able to give out good news, even if it is to the void of the internet.

I feel like I cannot accurately express my gratitude in these moments. For you who reads this idle chatter, or for those who have found value in the things that I have created and listed on the Etsy page. I know that I am prone to the cataclysmic spirals of despair, so I am truly grateful for these uplifting moments where things seem to be on track and I actually notice and have time to reflect and be thankful. And really, honestly… thank you.