Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Some Goodbyes... but not forgotten

this is probably one of the hardest blog entries to write.  So sit back, grab a cup a tea, and hopefully I can bring light on the last few months....

I have been "hiding"  the struggles I have had for awhile, because I have never wanted to broadcast the troubles in my life.  I have always wanted to write about happy times and happy memories.  I am a full time optimist, even when people cringe when they wonder how I do it... So here it is...

The three companies that I LOVE LOVE LOVE so much, and have been a dream come true... I have decided to step down.... and here is there reason why:

Yep, these three monsters  kids.  You see, since my husband has started working away from home in April, I thought I actually would have more time to scrapbook (silly me!).  In fact, I have next to no time.  I can squeeze in 10 minutes here, and 10 minutes there, but to sit down and pour my heart into the hobby that I love so much, has been too hard.  I have slapped things down on a layout, in record time, but have not had the full creative feeling that I always use to get everytime I had some ME time.  I struggled with deadlines, keeping organized, and I felt like I was letting everyone down... my kids, and myself included.  

On top of being a "single" mom for most of the time, I also work 50 plus hours a week running my own business.  I felt like that part was being neglected too. So I sat down and agonized over what to do.  Last year at this time, I would have thought I was crazy to give up on such amazing opportunities, but people change, situations change, and I knew what I had to do.....

I could not choose one company above another, as I LOVE THEM ALL.... so

Canadian Scrapbooker..... I still marvel at the thought of you "picking"  me out of all the crazy talented Canadian Scrapbookers out there!  You are the best magazine out there, and I will continue to submit and support you 100%!

Doodlebug Design....  I will never forget the feeling when I made the team for the first year... something I will never forget... I will continue to hoard your products and create the cutest little things with them! Thank you for all the colourful therapy you gave me, and for the sweetness and friendship!!

Bella Blvd...  Another team that was a complete dream of mine to make, and to belong to such a amazing creative group of designers! I have loved particpating in the creative journey and I have loved watching this company grow into a powerhouse in the scrapbooking industry.  I will continue to create and be inspired by this talented Bella Bunch!

There you have it... Its been a few weeks, and even after writing this, I still get teary eyed... I felt so close with so many of you, but in my heart I know this is the right choice.....

I know I will still create.... and share... it is a part of who I am.... You will still monthly posts with My Creative Scrapbook Kits... AND I am hoping to share more on this new journey....a journey with minimal stress, where I can create to create... when time permits!!!

THANK YOU ALL for supporting me and reading this blog over the years! It has grown leaps and bounds... I hope I can continue to inspire you... just in a different way!

7 comments:

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

Totally understand my friend!! I am sure it was hard to step down .. you have created such AMAZING projects for ALL these teams ... I can't wait till you can share your next creation -- and I will be here to see it! :)

Juliana Michaels 17turtles said...

I have missed seeing your creations but family has to come first! Big hugs and I hope you can keep creating

KellyCreates said...

Family life is always a juggling act, and I admire how you kept all the balls in the air for so long, Jodi. Even with 3 teenagers, I am always on the go, especially because of sports. Their time with you is so important....and fleeting. You can always join DT's at a later time...I'm sure they will welcome you back with open arms!!

Cathy said...

Sending lots of love and hugs! You are a huge inspiration for me and your creations are AMAZING! I understand your struggles and wish you the very best! I know you will be back...you can't possibly stay away!

Michelle said...

Great big hugs Jodi. A girl gotta do what a girl gotta do.Family ( not to mention sanity!!!) comes first

Mendi Yoshikawa said...

I totally missed your post... Sending you big hugs! I'm happy to hear you will still be enjoying a little personal crafty time each month. You will be missed, but I'm sure like Cathy said you will be back before we know it. ;)

VanessaB said...

ah. such is life. hang in there! you'll find time when you can without obligations of timelines, etc. I still look forward to your work. you are an amazing paper artist!