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45 Calendars Left, and the Countdown to the Butt and Gut Doctor Begins

Hey, awesome humans!

Let me start by saying: I’m the worst calendar salesman ever. Seriously, if there was an award for “Artist Most Likely to Forget They’re Selling Something,” I’d win it this year. Somewhere in the chaos of life, I completely forgot to remind you lovely people that I still have a stack of 45 of my Me and It Creatures 2025 calendars left. That’s right, 45! Usually, these are long gone by now, and I’m patting myself on the back for a job well done.

But alas, life has been… let’s say interesting lately. Between Klee’s health challenges and navigating the holiday whirlwind, my marketing skills took a little snooze. (And by “a little,” I mean full-on hibernation.)

About the Calendars

In case you’re wondering what makes this calendar so special, let me enlighten you. Each month is packed with my quirky, lovable Me and It Creatures, grotesque-yet-adorable monsters spreading joy and inspiration. Think of them as your emotional support monsters for 2025. They’ll cheer you on, make you smile, and maybe even remind you that life’s little moments of weirdness are worth celebrating.

And because I feel bad for forgetting to sell them, here’s a little incentive: Use the code rafiwashere001 at checkout to snag 10% off.

Order now, and I’ll ship them out on December 30th. Yes, I will personally ship them. No robots, just me, probably drinking coffee and double-checking your address with the intensity of someone who doesn’t trust printers.

Life Update: Holding On Until the Butt and Gut Doctor Saves the Day

Now, on to the real-life stuff. If you’ve been following along, you know Klee hasn’t been feeling well for months. But there’s good news on the horizon! On January 8th, we’re finally seeing the highly-anticipated Butt and Gut Doctor. (Yes, that’s the technical term. No, I’m not making this up… well, maybe.)

This doc is supposed to be the superhero who swoops in with medications that actually target the root issue. Until then, we’re holding on strong, taking things one day at a time. Last night was better than most—Klee got some real rest, and her pain levels have dropped from monstrously unbearable to just mildly villainous.

It’s been a long and rough few weeks, and we know we’re not out of the woods yet. But the upturn we’re seeing feels like a little light at the end of a very twisty, bumpy tunnel. A little pain is so much better than a lot of pain, and every moment of relief feels like a small victory.

Thank You for Your Love and Support

To all of you who’ve reached out with kind words, encouragement, financial support, or just sent good vibes, we can’t thank you enough. Your support means the world to us and makes this crazy journey a little less lonely and stress inducing (which is important for Klee right now), thank you for the gift of peace.

So, let’s wrap this up with a reminder:
If you want one of those Me and It Creatures calendars, now’s your chance. You’ll get some monster magic to brighten your 2025, and you’ll help me not feel like I completely failed at selling them this year.

Grab yours before they’re gone—and don’t forget that sweet 10% off code: rafiwashere001.

Here’s to calendars, creatures, and hoping the Butt and Gut Doctor is the real MVP of 2025!

With love and a little less pain,
Rafi (and Klee, who is currently snoozing like the warrior she is)

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The Holidays as an Artist is a …

Ah, the holiday season! Many humans think of decking the halls, finding the perfect tree, untangling miles of lights (only to find they don’t work), and the thrill of picking out gifts. But for us artists, the holidays are a bit of a balancing act: we’re diving into festive gatherings, hunting for a few extra gigs to boost the income, and somehow juggling it all while trying not to spill our eggnog everywhere.

Contrary to popular belief, the holiday season isn’t typically the huge moneymaker for artists that people think it is. Sure, it’s a time of booming business for big-box stores and online retail giants. But original art and jewelry? That’s a whole different story. What we create is personal. It’s not a box of chocolates or some mass-produced thing that you can easily wrap and stick a bow on. Buying art is more like matchmaking than shopping. It’s either love at first sight, or it’s not happening. Unless someone’s commissioning a custom piece or gifting to a die-hard fan, most people don’t want to gamble on choosing the “perfect piece of art” for someone else.

Our loyal collectors, friends, and those we consider family are the real reason we’re still in business at this time of year. Somehow, we manage to make it through each holiday season with our creative spirits intact and a few sales under our belts. These are relationships that we have built for over a decade and words cannot describe how much we appreciate it. If you know some artists out there that you love and adore, remember them for the holidays. It’s a powerful thing to feel supported in what you do. Did someone come to mind? If so, show them some love.

This is also the time of year when I start thinking about fun, unique art pieces that would make for great gifts. I’m still working on it. It’s been a decade of brainstorming and experimenting, but I feel like I’m getting close! Any year now, I’ll crack the code on that perfect blend of joy, creativity, and gift-worthy art. Some day, maybe. Until then, I’ll keep making non-gift-worthy art that speaks from the heart and hope it lands in the hands of someone who truly appreciates it.

Out At A Market For The Holidays 2015

One of my favorite things to do during this season is to release a special, limited-edition wall calendar. This year, I created the “Me and It” calendar, featuring our beloved monsters doing their thing and spreading joy in all their quirky ways. Every month has a special illustration, a bit of inspiration, and some fun little “holidays” mixed in for laughs (International Nap Day, anyone?). This calendar is my way of adding a little extra brightness to 2025 for 100 lucky art lovers.

And then there’s one of the absolute highlights of our holiday season: our annual Virtual Holiday Sale! This year, it’s tentatively scheduled for December 8th, so keep an eye out! We’ll have special discounts on our work, some live-streamed music, and a festive studio tour. We’ve been told it’s a lot of fun, and while we hope to bring in a little extra income, the real reason we do it is to hang out with our online family for a holiday treat. There’s something magical about coming together, showing our wares, and just being able to chat and celebrate with everyone who’s supported us. For us, it’s the holiday spirit wrapped up in a live stream.

Our First Holiday Sale In Our New Home 2021

There’s also Artist Sunday, coming up on the Sunday after Black Friday. We’re still on the fence about what we’ll be doing this year, but it’s a fantastic day to support artists in your area, who may have something very special you didn’t even know you were looking for. So while you’re thinking about fighting crowds and arguing over parking spaces on Black Friday, don’t forget the small businesses and individual artists out there. We may not have the advertising budgets that big-box stores do, but we sure have a lot of heart… and let’s be honest, we’re way more awesome.

For now, we are knee-deep in a flurry of book signing, doodling, and heartfelt dedications as we prep to send out these long-awaited beauties. Our living room has turned into a chaotic book-signing assembly line—think Santa’s workshop, but with more coffee and fewer elves. You’ve been so patient, waiting months for Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up, and we’re thrilled to announce the moment has arrived—shipping starts THIS WEEK! If you hear a joyful “Woo-hoo!” echoing from Oil City, it’s us celebrating this epic milestone. Thank you for your love and support—your books are coming your way with a sprinkle of magic and a whole lotta heart!

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How to Sprinkle Happiness into Your Day (with the Help of My Awesome Calendar, of Course)

Hello, you awesome human! Let’s talk about happiness. Not the big, loud, “I just won the lottery and now own a fleet of quirky llamas” kind of happiness, but the tiny, quiet, sneaky happiness that creeps up on you when you least expect it. The kind that comes from a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, a cheesy dad joke, or flipping to a new month and seeing a delightfully grotesque-yet-adorable creature staring back at you from your Me and It Creatures calendar.

Yes, I said calendar. My Me and It Creatures limited edition calendar, to be exact. It’s not just a bunch of dates and boxes—it’s your ticket to adventure, fun, and possibly giggling at inappropriate moments during meetings.

The Power of Little Joys

Life is full of stress, chaos, and the occasional existential crisis when you realize you’ve spent 20 minutes looking for your glasses and they were on your head. But happiness? That’s the secret weapon. It’s the way you fight back against the doom and gloom, one little giggle-snort at a time.

I created this calendar with that in mind. Each month, you’ll meet a quirky Me and It Creature who has their own unique story to tell. They’re like little goblins of happiness, here to remind you that life is weird, wonderful, and better with a bit of whimsy.

Why My Calendar is Basically Your New Best Friend

  1. It Keeps You Organized-ish: Let’s be honest—you’re probably not going to become a scheduling ninja overnight. But this calendar will at least make you smile while you attempt to adult.
  2. It’s a Conversation Starter: Imagine someone walking into your home and spotting one of my creatures. The questions alone will be worth it. (“What…is that?” “Oh, that? That’s the February Me and It, reminding me to love my weirdness!”)
  3. It Celebrates Fun Holidays: Did you know there’s a National Lumpy Rug Day? Neither did I until I started researching weird holidays. Now, my calendar includes them for your celebration pleasure.
  4. It’s Limited Edition: That’s right. Owning this calendar makes you one of an elite squad of happiness hunters who recognize the value of spreading joy, one month at a time. Limit 100 Calendars.

Why I Want You to Buy It

Sure, I’d like to sell a bunch of these calendars because I’m a rogue artist who needs to fund my ongoing war against boring walls and uninspired desk spaces. But more than that, I truly love the idea of my creatures keeping you company all year long.

If one person tells me that my calendar made them smile on a rough day, then this whole project will have been worth it (but also, please buy one because, you know, bills).

How to Get Yours

The Me and It Creatures calendar is ready to bring adventure, humor, and maybe a little mischief into your life. It’s limited edition, so once they’re gone, they’re gone. Don’t be that person who waits until January to realize they need one (because honestly, January Creature is adorable and will feel left out).

So, grab your calendar, put it on your wall, and let’s make 2025 a year filled with joy, silliness, and maybe even a little adventure. Let’s spread happiness, one weird little creature at a time.

And remember, happiness isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey filled with mini monsters, weird holidays, and a whole lot of heart. 😊

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New 2025 Limited Edition Calendar Signed By Artist Rafi Perez – Me And It Edition

Let’s be honest, 2024 was a bit of a rollercoaster, and not always the thrilling kind. For many of us, it felt like a series of unexpected twists and turns. But amid all the chaos, one thing remained clear: adding a little joy throughout the year can make all the difference. I’m overjoyed to hear that those who brought home my calendar last year found moments of happiness each month. Knowing that my quirky little calendars lifted spirits warms my heart more than words can express.

So here I am again, back with something even more special for 2025! Introducing the Me and It 2025 Limited Edition Calendar, designed to be a daily reminder that no matter what’s happening in the world, we can always smile and make the best of our lives.

Why This Calendar Will Brighten Your Year:

Each month showcases a unique “Me and It” scene featuring our lovable, quirky monsters. They’re not just illustrations; they’re little ambassadors of joy, each paired with an inspiring message to uplift your spirits. These characters are here to remind you that happiness isn’t just a destination—it’s found in the little moments we cherish every day.

Celebrate the Joy in Everyday Moments:

To keep things exciting, I’ve included a selection of fun and strange (but totally real!) holidays. They’re perfect excuses to celebrate life and spread positivity:

  • Do a Grouch a Favor Day – Brighten someone else’s day, and you might just brighten your own.
  • Everything You Do Is Right Day – Embrace your journey, imperfections and all.
  • Make Up Your Own Holiday Day – Create your own reason to celebrate and share it with the world.
  • Talk Like Yoda Day – Because sometimes, laughter is the best medicine.

A Daily Reminder to Find Happiness:

This calendar isn’t just about dates and appointments; it’s a tool for inspiration. I designed it to be a beacon of positivity—a reminder that, despite any challenges we face, we have the power to find joy and make the best of our lives. Let’s choose to focus on the good, spread kindness, and keep smiling through it all.

Calendar Details for Those Who Love the Finer Things:

  • Name: 2025 Limited Edition Calendar
  • Artist: Rafi Perez (that’s me!)
  • Size: 11″ x 8.5″ – Ideal for adding a touch of whimsy to any space.
  • Style: Modern, contemporary art infused with joy and creativity.
  • Quality: Printed on heavyweight, full-color paper to make each illustration pop.
  • Bonus: Each calendar is personally signed by yours truly.

Important! Pre-order Deadline: November 30th

Calendars will start shipping on December 5th, ensuring they arrive in time for the holidays. By pre-ordering before November 30th, you’ll secure your copy and be ready to kick off 2025 with a smile. Whether it’s a gift for yourself or someone special, it’s a wonderful way to share joy and inspiration.

Let’s Make 2025 Our Best Year Yet:

I invite you to join me in embracing the new year with optimism and a joyful heart. Let’s fill 2025 with laughter, creativity, and countless reasons to smile. The Me and It 2025 Calendar is more than just a calendar; it’s a companion on your journey, encouraging you to find happiness in every day.

So go ahead, grab your calendar, and let’s make the coming year a celebration of all the good we can bring into the world. Remember, no matter what comes our way, we can always choose joy and make the best of our lives.

Here’s to a year filled with smiles and endless possibilities!

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Your Calendars Are Shipping Out With A Little Extra Love

Guess what’s making this year absolutely, positively, undeniably awesome? Drumroll, please… Rafi Limited Edition special calendars! Can I get a virtual high-five? I’m practically bursting with excitement because these calendars arrived and are next level. Seriously, they’re so fantastic that even I, the mastermind behind prior years’ calendars, am blown away.

I’ve been pacing around like a kid on Christmas morning waiting for these beauties to arrive, and when I finally got my hands on them, oh boy, it was like holding a slice of heaven. The quality is off the charts, and I can’t wait for you to experience the calendar magic.

Before I dive into the calendar extravaganza, let me take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all you wonderful souls who’ve already snagged one of my calendars. You guys are awesome! Your support means the world to me, and I can’t thank you enough for embarking on this creative journey with me.

ALL CALENDARS WILL SHIP BY DECEMBER 11th

Now, let’s talk calendar shipping dates! Klee and I are currently in full-on calendar-packing mode. It’s like a calendar assembly line, and we’re loving every minute of it. We’ve already started shipping! Yup, the calendars are making their way to your doorstep as we speak. The last grouping of Calendars will ship on December 11th, you will receive a tracking number via email.

If you’re still on the fence about getting one, here’s your friendly nudge – there are only 20 calendars left! That’s it, just 20. And because I’m feeling extra festive, I’ve extended the sale until December 9. It’s your last chance to grab a slice of “Rafi” for 2024.

But wait, there’s more! For that extra dose of motivation, I’ve thrown in a signed poster. Something to jazz up your space and keep those creative vibes flowing throughout the year. It’s like having a pocket-sized muse, minus the awkward conversations.

Also, mark your calendars (pun intended) for December 9 at 5 pm Eastern because we’re throwing a virtual art show extravaganza! This event will be full of live music, a tour of the Sunflower House art studio (yes!), and of course, plenty of stories and art to keep your creative juices flowing. We will be sharing links soon!

Thank you, thank you, thank you for making this year incredible. Hanging out with you and growing as an artist has been an absolute blast. Here’s to an exciting and awesome 2024 – let’s make it memorable together. See you at the virtual show!

Cheers, You Rock!

Rafi

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Chaos, Calendars, and Empowering Artist Souls

Welcome to the chaotic haven that is my studio! Today, I’m diving in with a mind as blank as a fresh canvas—yes, you heard it right, my brain’s on vacation. But don’t worry, I come bearing announcements that might just make your morning!

First things first: major life update! My daughter has parachuted into this artistic universe of mine, causing delightful chaos and a whirlwind of adjustments. We’re currently in the eye of the storm, navigating these uncharted waters, but oh boy, it’s a crazy adventure and I couldn’t be more thrilled!

Creativity With My Daughter In The Studio

Now, onto the second tidbit—massive thanks to all you wonderful souls who’ve snagged a Rafi 2024 limited edition calendar! They’re selling like hotcakes, but, there are still a few left. Wanna snatch one for yourself? Just hit that link down below and voila! Your year is about to get artfully organized.

And drumroll, please! The free masterclass has finally emerged from the depths of editing purgatory! It’s live on our courses section, on our rogue community site waiting for eager creative minds like yours to absorb its brilliance. No emails are required and no fuss—just pure, unadulterated knowledge. 

In the masterclass, we discuss the nitty-gritty of an artist’s journey. Now, I may sound like a cheesy motivational speaker every once in a while, but bear with me. One major hurdle for us artists isn’t out there in the big bad world, it’s right in our heads. Yup, it’s all about managing our business, time, and well, that little thing called life.

Artist Masterclass With Rafi And Klee

And here’s the golden rule—no sacrificing our soul for a sack of gold coins. It’s about making your mark in your own authentic way, becoming your own niche. The process? Seizing the reins of your career and feeling empowered to march forward in your creative conquest.

So just dive in and soak up our Rogueness like a sponge.

So, that’s the scoop for today. I might not have dropped any comedic bombs or life-altering revelations, but hey, we’re a family here, right? And sometimes, even I have days where words seem to evade me. But guess what? You guys are incredible, and I adore each and every one of you. Have a brilliantly creative week! Adios for now!

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Exciting News: Limited Edition 2024 Rafi Perez CREATIVE INSPIRATION Art Wall Calendar is Here!

Hello, my lovely art enthusiasts and art calendar lovers! The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived – the release of my brand new 2024 Creative Inspiration Art Wall Calendar! I can hardly contain my excitement as I unveil this masterpiece that’s been a labor of love and creativity for me. This year, I’ve poured my heart and soul into designing a calendar that’s not just a date-keeper but an artistic journey of inspiration.

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez

📅 Pre-order by December 1st for Exclusive Savings!

Let’s get right into the details and why you’re going to want to snag this calendar before it’s gone.

🖊️ Signed by Yours Truly! That’s right, each calendar in this limited edition is personally signed by me, Rafi Perez. I wanted to make this calendar extra special by putting my own signature on it.

📦 Ships by December 3rd You’ll have your calendar in hand just in time for the holidays, shipped out to you on December 3rd. It’ll be like a little early holiday present!

🎨 A Year of Creative Inspiration This calendar isn’t just about marking dates; it’s about celebrating life, love, and the boundless creativity that resides within us all. I’ve curated each month to remind you of the magic that can be found in the everyday.

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez

🌈 Monthly Inspiration Every month is adorned with vibrant, thought-provoking artwork that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Get ready to be inspired each time you turn the page.

🎉 Celebrate Quirkiness In addition to the usual holidays, I’ve sprinkled in some delightful, unusual ones. From “Make Up Your Own Holiday Day” to “Talk Like Yoda Day,” this calendar is here to keep things fun and lighthearted.

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez

📜 2024 Calendars by Rafi Perez: The Details

  • Name: 2024 CREATIVE INSPIRATION Calendar
  • Artist: Rafi Perez
  • Paper Size: 11″ x 8.5″, staple binding, white interior paper (100# weight), full-color interior ink (279 x 216 mm)
  • Style: Modern, Contemporary Art

Each calendar comes protected in a plastic sleeve to ensure it arrives at your doorstep in perfect condition.

I hope it fills your days with joy and inspiration throughout 2024.

🌟 Don’t miss out on the pre-order discount – make sure to secure your copy by December 1st. It’s a limited edition, and once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Thank you for being a part of this amazing journey with me. Your support means the world, and I can’t wait to see my art gracing your walls throughout the coming year.

Warm regards, Rafi Perez 🎨

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Today Is The Last Day For Calendars

Ho Ho Ho and such! I’ve got some important news about ordering, Holiday shipping times, and all the craziness involved.

I also wanted to make sure you guys are aware that today is the last day to order Calendars. That is December 5th, 2018 until 11:59PM Central Time. At midnight I will be pulling the listings down. Thank you so much to everyone that ordered a Calendar! I appreciate you guys so much.

Calendars

Last year some people missed the deadline, and wanted to know if I can “help a brotha out” but alas I could not, and I felt really bad about it, but it would have messed up the orders that were already placed.

Also, in the last blog I put information about holiday ordering and shipping times, it’s important, so I’m going to share it again.

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HOLIDAY ORDERING AND SHIPPING FROM RAFI AND KLEE

Order cutoff dates are as follows, to ensure timely delivery for Christmas. Domestic orders (continental US), for bespoke (made to order) items: December 11th. Limited collection (ready to ship) items: Dec 17th. All international orders: December 3rd.

Order-Deadline-Rafi-and-Klee

Shipping time

Usually, it takes 2-7 business days, but most shipping companies do not work during weekends. Strikes, severe weather conditions, flight delays, increased volumes, and other unforeseeable issues may cause an increase in shipping time. So keep that in mind.

The Happy Art Tour THAT
The Happy Art Tour THAT

Oh, btw… You’re awesome and we love you. I know it’s been all business with deadlines and ordering for the Holidays, so I want to take the time out to say, I really appreciate you and thank you for being so supportive.

-Rafi

 

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4 Special Stocking Stuffers To Give From Rafi And Klee

That time of year is upon us where we desperately try to remember what the people who are near and dear to us would like in their stocking. In the spirit of the holidays I have compiled a list of our most popular stuff to stuff a stocking with.

These are gifts that are both affordable and meaningful from our collections of fine jewelry and fine art.

Rafi and Klee Christmas 2015

PLEASE NOTE: While people are generally overflowing with joy and uncontainable excitement, this season can also cause a bit of stress for us with increased orders and workload or winter storms that can drastically impact delivery times. It is important to us that you get your gifts.

Order-Deadline-Rafi-and-Klee
Order cutoff dates are as follows, to ensure timely delivery for Christmas. Domestic orders (continental US), for bespoke (made to order) items: December 11th. Limited collection (ready to ship) items: Dec 17th. All international orders: December 3rd.

Ok, now that’s out of the way, on to the fun:

Tiny Hammered Disk Earrings – Sterling Silver and 14k Solid Gold “Mini Gong” Earrings $59.00

Mini Gong Earrings
These elegant little sterling silver concave disk earrings feature subtle hammered texture, beautiful light play, minimalist design, and mixed metal versatility with 14k solid gold hexagonal beads nested in each disk. They wear perfectly for dress up or dress down and look amazing with just about anything. These just might be your new favorite wear everyday earrings.

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Three Little Birds Wall Art by artist Rafi Perez Original Artist Enhanced Print On Wood $25.00

Curate Your Space
This is a high quality print of my work on textured archival art paper. I enhance my prints using either ink, paint, pastel, or a combination of mediums. Each one is unique, this Piece is mounted on wood and ready to hang out of the box. It is completely hand crafted by me, with unique texture patterns added by hand, no two are exactly the same. These pieces are signed and dated on the back. Check Out rest of my CURATE YOUR SPACE pieces.

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Green Fluorite Crystal Necklace – Solid Sterling Silver – Raw Fluorite Octahedron Crystal – Long Layering Necklace $60.00 (Was $75.00)

Green Fluorite Crystal Necklace
A luminous raw pale green fluorite octahedron sits serene in it’s solid sterling silver woven bezel. The design is reminiscent of cathedral windows and old world lanterns, centering on the beauty of the light that passes through the crystal. A modern interpretation of a beautiful relic from times gone by. This fluorite crystal is raw and translucent with some beautiful crystal inclusions. Worn alone or layered with shorter necklaces, it makes a contemporary but organic statement.

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Four Seasons – 4 Piece – Tree Paintings on Reclaimed Wood By Artist Rafi Perez $131.75 (was $155.00)

Seasons of change
Original Abstract Textured Tree Mixed Medium Paintings on Re-purposed wood Part of “The Seasons of Change Series” This series came together over a period of time in which I experimented with the feeling of the season. Eventually the Seasons of Change evolved to what you see now.

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Also! Don’t forget! Calendar Order deadline is tomorrow, December 5th. Please order yours before they are gone.

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Calendar Ship Date And Updates

I am so appreciative and grateful of the response I’ve been getting to the Calendars. I’ll be honest, I was a bit surprised at how many of you showed excitement over the new designs. Truly, from my heart, I thank you.NOB-Mockup-8

My plan is to have all the calendars ready to ship no later than December 15th, which will put the calendar in your hands before Christmas. My goal is to ship them the same day I get them from the printer, so it may ship earlier, either way I will keep you updated.

Once the deadline passes in 4 days, its go time. That’s when the craziness begins and the process truly gets started. Speaking of deadlines, I noticed that there are several calendars sitting in carts, I really hope whoever you are, you don’t miss the deadline, because once I have my final order number, that’s it, these are coming down.

Rafi-Calendar-in-carts

If you haven’t gotten one yet, please order online, by following the link below. I have it set up this way so that I can keep track of the orders. I will not be selling calendars in person at the market, sorry.

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