full cup

Two arrivals over the weekend ensured that my mornings now begin with excitement and a bit more of my favorite word (hope). I am a coffee lover. I like it strong and dark. I have had times in my life when I've gone without, but for the most part- it's a daily pleasure. I learned how to make a cappuccino before I even knew how to brew coffee. I worked at a cafe during college and made espresso on a big vintage machine something like this one. I was a barista long before that term became popular in the US. It's been a while, but this weekend I felt like I donned my old espresso making cap.

 My mother had just gotten a Bialetti at a garage sale (of course!), and couldn't stop going on about it. I decided to order one for myself in time for the weekend. And because magic and a bit of serendipity go hand in hand, I received a mysterious surprise on my doorstep- simultaneously! A box from Melissa arrived, as well. Melissa is one of my favorite potters, a dear friend and one of my first flickr buddies from way back. In that box was this note, wrapped around none other than what has become my new espresso cup! And yes, "a tangible reminder." Sigh.

Did she know?! Of course not, but that's how my days spin around here. It couldn't have been planned any better, and the fact that it wasn't at all makes me even more certain that life will never stop having potential for wonder! And that Bialetti? So, so good!!

As you can see, the quote is from my favorite Emily Dickinson poem that is the foundation of my other blog Honoring Hope. Melissa- you couldn't be more sensitive and generous... and this beautiful vessel  couldn't be more loved! Thank you. If you are in need of your own hope cup, you're in luck- I spy more in her shop right here. 

And today's new HH post, "river flowing", was appropriately written while sipping from it. You can read it here. 

honoring hope

After I posted "feather"  (that very afternoon), I went out with a pot of boiling water to thaw the chicken's iced over waterer. And do you know what was waiting for me? An egg! An egg!! Big deal, you might be thinking- you have chickens. But wait, these girls molted in October and not a single egg has be laid since. It's been a bit bleak each day checking those empty nests. It corresponded with the holidays, my roughest two months, yet. So shall it not come as a surprise that I wrote about symbols and signposts right before they gifted me with their first sweet egg? On the coldest day of the year, no less? Come on friends, I can't make this stuff up. So, what was this sphere in my hand trying to tell me? That it was time for something new. That's where I've been for the last few days...

Sweet friends,
Sharing my path with all of you has been unbelievably healing and helpful during this year of transition. My gratitude goes far beyond words. But I believe I've come to a crossroads.

maya*made has always been a perfect platform for sharing my creativity, along with the inspiration I draw from my family and nature. Bits of wisdom gained and vulnerability exposed have gone hand in hand with projects and recipes. I've heard from you how much you've appreciated this honesty mixed with daily fun. maya*made will remain exactly the same, but I've decided that the comfort I gain from writing about my new journey needs to have its own outlet... its own special home. I also recognize that the intensity and heaviness that comes with such growth needs to be shared in small doses. So I'm freeing up this site to be what it has always been...  a source of joy.

The idea of a safe haven for myself and other women has been gestating. Today it is ready to to be birthed. For those seeking insight into my inner work, searching for tools and resources that I've found indispensable, and looking for truth about the struggles we all  have to face at one time or another... this new spot will be for you. Although definitely in its infancy (one day old!), it shows great promise for those seeking something to hold onto. Introducing my new little "inner" web sanctuary: Honoring Hope.  

Love,

Maya