Kate Harper had another interesting article a while back. For those who think greeting cards are becoming a thing of the past, read this and check out the links. Her newsletter read:

I recently listened to an excellent interview on Kindle Chronicles podcast, with Neil Strandberg, manager of operations at Denver’s renowned Tattered Cover Book Store, about his experience of the e-book revolution.

He made an interesting statement:
In the most financially successful bookstores, the fastest growing inventory now is not a book, but sideline items (includes cards and gifts) . They are now the most profitable part of the business.

I was surprised to hear this.

Perhaps the gift industry is keeping the bookstore industry afloat?

Check out the audio interview online: http://www.thekindlechronicles.com/2011/02/11/tkc-134-neil-strandberg/

You can also subscribe the podcast on itunes.

~ Kate Harper Designs www.kateharperdesigns.com

"Been thinkin' of ya . . .How are ya? . . Whatcha been up to?" 5.5"x 4.25" Greeting Card, Blank Inside

"It's Here ... It's Here ... Spring is Finally Here!" 5"x7" Greeting Card, Blank Inside

Another new decade is in the making and I want to wish you a magical 2010 full of love, joy, good health, prosperity and glorious new beginnings. I celebrate you and all that you do.

This happy little Bumble Bee was a delight to create, it still makes me smile. He seems to be saying, “Yippee!” but he can actually say anything you wish when ordering personalized cards from my website. Some examples might be “Bee Happy”, “Bee Courageous”, “Bee Patient”, “Bee Kind”, etc. Can you think of others?

#123 Bee Happy Bumble Bee Card, 5.5"x4.25", Box of eight cards/$15 or Box of 20/$25

What a fun gift idea! As well as greeting cards this little character is also available in framble prints. If you have a problem ordering from my website please feel free to email me at: mickey@artisticvoyage.com  and I will personally take care of it for you.

Are you blessed with someone in your life who inspires you and makes you laugh? If you pay attention you’ll know someone like this. Here is a suggestion for a thank you note you might like to send to someone who is an inspiration to you.

“You inspire me to be my best, you make me laugh and remind me to take time to play. People like you are angels in my life. I am grateful to have you as a friend.”

Below is an idea for a fine art note card appropriate for a man or a women to receive. The original painting for this artwork was done in acrylic on canvas, it measures 40″h x 30″w, private collection. Giclee’s on archival canvas or archival watercolor paper are available.

#140, Box of ten cards & eleven envelopes, $15

Here is suggested text for a thank you note for someone who has done kind deeds for you and/or your family.

“It is difficult to find the right words to express the appreciation for all you’ve done. Your kind deeds were comforting during Bob’s illness. Since his passing you continue to put a smile on my face with so many acts of kindness. It’s your thoughtfulness that makes the trying times easier to take.”

#163, A Special Note card, $15 Box of Ten, Eleven Envelopes, Blank Inside

This  card is a small portion of a mural which stands six feet tall in the foyer of a private residence in Monument Colorado. One of a few murals of which I remembered to take pictures in progress. Click here to see a short video of the mural in progress.