Welcome to November 2011, everyone!
October was reflective for me because it marks the anniversary of my sabbatical decision last year. I am very happy about this year and all the explorations, surprises and growth opportunities it has brought.
Interestingly, an opportunity I was looking for last year has arisen now, so it is doubly important to evaluate my goals. I also see affirmations in the path I am on now, which indicates all options are wide open to me. It seems sometimes we are particularly preoccupied with whether to move forward or retrace some steps in life.
![business license Maike's Marvels certificate](https://www.maikesmarvels.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/business-license-300x246.jpg)
Meanwhile, there are a few exhibits to attend this week as I explore the local artistic market more. I’m also reading a lot about social media to get my head around an online strategy that suits me.
![social media books Maike's Marvels is contemplating a social media strategy](https://www.maikesmarvels.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/social-media-books-300x200.jpg)
Maria Sybilla Merian is still on my mind as well as I play with butterfly assemblages in the studio.
![Chrysalis book Chrysalis about Maria Sibylla Merian by Kim Todd](https://www.maikesmarvels.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Chrysalis-book-196x300.jpg)
![Holly Berry Pink Butterfly collages by Maike's Marvels, mixed media and encaustic](https://www.maikesmarvels.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Holly-Berry-Pink-300x215.jpg)
I am now taking custom orders for holiday cards and gifts. Send me a message if you are interested in ordering Christmas/New Year’s cards or want to gift a special wall vignette to someone.
![support support local artists sign](https://www.maikesmarvels.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/support-300x197.jpg)