About Jillian:

I've enjoyed making art ever since I was a little kid. I have not always enjoyed running. I loathed the 'mile run' the Presidential Physical Fitness Test made us do in grade school every year.

When I was a senior in high school, some friends had coerced me into joining the cross country team with them. I learned how to improve my running and met some great people. It was my introduction to the wonderful world that is the 'running community'.

During college, my new running hobby turned into the crazy idea of running a marathon.

That first marathon was one of the most incredible and horrible experiences all wrapped into one morning! After "hitting the wall" at Mile 22ish and walking the last 4 miles of the race, I swore I would never run another marathon again.

I have since completed 24 more marathon in the past ten years since making that statement.

I still love making art just as much as I did when I was a kid. So much so that I chose art as my college major, receiving a B.F.A. in Painting and Printmaking in 2004.

I've learned that the career path of an artist is very similar to marathon running: Both require a willingness to work hard, set goals, and have patience.

About A Steady Pace Studio:

A Steady Pace Studio was created as a way to combine my love for running and art.

Why the name?
Because marathon running....creating art...sustaining an Etsy business...these are all things that are not always easy. I often have to remind myself to "keep a steady pace" to help get through the days (or moments) that are really tough.

My goal in making art is to reflect on moments in life in a creative, colorful way. Some of the artwork in this shop is inspired by a collection of images and memories captured while traveling to different running events around the country.

Many of the handmade greeting cards in this shop are created to encourage and inspire other runners (and triathletes, walkers, hikers, non-runners, etc.) on their own journeys.

I've been doing this Etsy thing for a few years now, and I can say without a doubt the best part has been connecting with other runners--or friends and family of runners-- and hearing the stories of so many people taking on a big challenge and accomplishing their goals! It's heartwarming to know that loved ones are out there not only offering support at races, but also seeking that 'perfect card' or gift on Etsy to help celebrate these accomplishments.

Thanks for visiting and for supporting small business!