10/08/2026
Time to pause!!!
This photo was taken a few weeks back by my mother. Being a perfectionist, I was looking at my stock on my shelves to see whether it looked good or needed to be moved around to look better. (I am still in the process of allowing this part of me to rest).
When she shared the photo with me, I saw a woman looking at her work, and in that moment it hit me that I never stopped to truly appreciate the hard work I put into my creations, and all the time and energy I invest in bringing my products to these shelves and into marketplaces.
Sometimes I am asked if this is the only thing I do. It is the main thing I do, and the list of jobs involved in the delivery of the final product is endless and mostly unseen. I am sure that all artisans reading this are nodding their heads in agreement.
However, meeting people at markets who take an interest in what goes in my products and the benefits of the blends is priceless, especially when they show genuine enthusiasm and appreciation for the products and their purchase.
I am also truly grateful for my repeat customers, whose continued trust, support and appreciation of my work mean the world to me. Seeing their joy when they receive their products and receiving their amazing feedback gives me energy and makes what I do worthwhile.
This week I decided to take a little pause. It also happens to be the first week I have my shifts at L-Artigjana, which is purposeful in its own way. This space offers me the opportunity to go back into this position with a different perspective where I can look back upon my journey, and allow myself to truly appreciate and be grateful for all that I do, and to simply take it all in.
For those who wish to try my products, samples are available. However, if you prefer meeting me and having a chat with me, or are looking for a custom blend for yourself, I will be at L-Artigjana:
• This evening -1600–2000
• 13 Aug - 1000–1400
• 21 Aug - 1600–2000
• 25 Aug - 1000-1400
• 26 Aug -1000–1400
With love,
Janice Balzan O'Dea
