This isn’t the usual fun and uplifting message I love to share, but I wanted to take a moment to update you on what’s been happening here at Rafi and Klee Studios and our recent health concerns.
As many of you know, we had to cancel our annual virtual holiday sale due to illness. Unfortunately, shortly after, Klee experienced a significant downturn and we went to the ER. She was admitted to the hospital, where she’s been staying as we work with her doctors to uncover what’s going on. Despite the circumstances, Klee is staying optimistic, and we’re holding onto hope that we’ll have more clarity—and good news—soon.
These days, my time is split between being at the hospital with Klee and trying to stay on top of things at home during the evenings. To be completely honest, I’m not functioning very well at running a business while this is happening. Once I contact everyone today and get the books shipped out, and get snow tires put on our car, I’ll be heading back to the hospital and staying by Klee’s side until we know more.
Orders and Shipping Updates
- Books: All pre-ordered copies of Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up are making their way to the post office. Unfortunately, any books shipping to Canada will be delayed due to the strike. I’ll keep an eye on the situation, but until it is resolved, I’ll need to hold off on shipping those books. If you’re in Canada, I’ve sent you an email with further details.
- Calendars: If you ordered a Me and It Creatures calendar, they’re expected to arrive here on the 16th. My hope is that Klee will be home by then, resting comfortably, and I’ll be able to package and ship those out soon after.
- Jewelry and Other Orders: I’m going to do my best to complete and ship all pending orders, but I ask for your patience. If there are delays, especially with jewelry, I’ll reach out to you directly to keep you updated. If it is ok to ship your order next year, that would be helpful.
- Local Pick-Up: Some of you ordered books, items, and calendars for local pick-up. I sent out some emails today, but I may have missed a few of you. We will reach out soon (hopefully next week) to schedule a meet-up to pick up your items.
If you have any questions about your order, please don’t hesitate to email me. It may take me a bit longer to respond, but I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Shut Down for the Holidays
Although we are doing what we can, with everything going on, we’ve decided to shut down studio operations for the holidays. This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s necessary to focus on Klee’s recovery and to navigate this challenging time.
I’ll be honest—it’s incredibly hard to see the love of my life going through this. There are health factors, financial challenges, and the emotional toll of uncertainty. But we are holding onto hope, and we know that brighter days are ahead.
In the meantime, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers and send us all the healing vibes you can muster. Hopefully, by next week, we’ll have more answers, and Klee will be on the mend.
I know that some of you have asked about supporting us financially during this time, and although I have a hard time asking for help, I appreciate it immensely. I’ve added a link for donations here.
If you want to support us by ordering something, please do. We are hoping to be back up and running by the end of January (we are optimistic), but orders will not ship out until then, especially jewelry orders.
Thank you so much for your understanding, patience, and support. Your kindness means the world to us during times like these.
With love and gratitude,
Rafi
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!
Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.
Or Go To Paypal By Clicking The Link Below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2GTZMGBCX3UBA
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get well soon
I hope you feel better soon! Hugs.
So sorry to hear that Klee is in the hospital and that Rafi is having to prep, pack, and ship all the goodies by himself, when the two of you would BOTH probably prefer to be together. My creative hubby and I wish we lived closer so we could help out with the shipping. And emotional and moral support, too. I recently had a mystery illness that had me laid up for the better part of 18 months, but we finally, FINALLY have it sorted. Hope Klee is feeling 100% much faster than that!!! We know all too well that dealing with a mystery illness, especially at the holidays or during a busy season for your artistic businesses is not at all fun. You’re both so courageous and brave. You’re being vulnerable, and authentic, and strong. You’re doing the best you can with what you’ve got and no one can truly ask for more than that. (And, if they do, shame on them for not understanding that you’re human!) Here’s a quote that helped me: “It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary.” ~Mandy Hale. I believe this also applies to those you love: “It’s not selfish to love your loved ones, take care of your loved ones, and make your loved ones’ happiness a priority. It’s necessary.” You matter! Taking care of Klee’s health matters. Taking care of your brain jars matters. Sending you both so much love, healing, patience, blessings, and grace. 💜
Hi! I’m so sorry for your struggle!! I’m pretty new to your channel, and though I love you guys (you often remind me of us) and you never fail to inspire me artistically and to make me laugh out loud, in general I’m a watcher but non-participator in all things social-media.
But when I saw your video just now, Rafi, I wanted to give you a virtual hug and tell you my husband and I will pray for you. We don’t say that lightly, we believe God truly cares, and creates each of us with a plan in mind.
Anyway. We’re here and we’re praying.
Blessings! Joan and Keith Miller
Sending all my love to you both! You guys got this! We’ll be here by your side cheering you on, Klee! Take care of yourselves! Do what you need to do, and focus on each other. See you in the new year! Love and hugs from Scranton, PA! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 Melissa Anowai
Klee get well dear. We all need you to get better. (Especially Rafi who could would just be a leaf tumbling through the breeze without your tree jokes). My SO is also in the hospital so I admire Rafi’s commitment to continuing to get orders filled when he’d rather be at your side. Get well Chica. Lots of love for you both.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and Klee. Long time watcher/listener..one of the things that hooked me early on when I first discovered you on youtube was Klee chiming in from the back or from her work station. You both Fachunking rock !! Positive energy for a healthy recovery ❤️🩹.
Tim Clemons Twisted tree studio
My thoughts are with the both of you.
Hello Rafi and Klee.
Just sending this message in hopes that Klee feels better soon.
You both have been a real beacon of light online.There are very few people who I’ve seen be as vunarable and real about the life of a creative as you two.
Just know that you are valued and we’re all praying for you guys.
I sure hope Klee feels better soon. I’ll be praying for her quick recovery. Sending love, Elicia
So so sorry to hear that about Klee. Klee, I hope you get better real soon. Love both of you!
Please tell Klee I am sending her a huge hug along with positive vibes for a full recovery. She is such a sweetheart and a very talented artist who needs us all right now to love and support her. Rafi stay strong my friend, get plenty of rest, take care of yourself and the love of your life! You both are deeply loved and will bounce back from this.
Patsy
Thanks for the update. I saw the book, Your Brain On Art, in the picture and will be getting it, looks good. Sending love, peace, and healing.
Sending much love and aloha to you both! We’re keeping Klee in our thoughts and prayers. Mahalo for keeping us posted. 🌺
Hi,
Love to you both 🥰
Lindsey