Tuesday 14 June 2011

So Stoked! Confession Time & Any Questions?!







I have just received a notification from Webster's Pages about this!  My layout is featured at Inspire Me!!  If you missed this layout scroll down a few posts to find it & you can have a closer look...Totally stoked :)



I don't upload a lot at Inspire Me because I don't have tonnes of Webster's product, but I always make sure to grab a little bit when I do my online shopping every few months, and just yesterday had made a decision to start investing more with fewer companies (one of them being Webster's)(not spending any more on supplies but buying more from less manufacturers if you understand what I mean).  I just feel it's time I started consolidating.  I know my style now & my time for experimenting is over.  Evolving maybe but not experimenting...

I know what I want from my scrapbooking now.  It's taken me years to get to this point in my "scrapbooking  life" & have been thinking on this for a few days & wondering whether I should write a post about it or not.  I fear no-one is interested in reading it so it won't get any/many comments but I've decided it's more important to write it as a reminder to myself, irrespective of whether it gets read or commented on :)

I have been feeling uneasy about scrappy things for a little while now (a couple of weeks) as there are some behind the scenes developments going on at several of the Design Teams I am on that are shaking things up a bit & making me reassess the road that I am on.  I am very happy with the progress I have made this year.  At the end of last year I felt I was at a crossroads with my scrapbooking & was umming & aaahing as to whether to give up trying to "make a name for myself" & just be content to continue to scrapbook for my personal satisfaction or whether I wanted to give it one last bash  & try to make it onto some Design Teams (I had been on a couple in the past but I really wanted a "popular" blog with more readers/hits/validation of my work).

Quite honestly I was tired of the disappointments of not making it onto Design Teams & suspecting it was because I wasn't on any others (you  know how all the same names crop up time & time again & you wonder how they ever got their "lucky break?").  I committed my scrapbooking ambitions to God & asked that he decide where to take me with them & also that he guard my heart against any disappointments in future (in other words that I would be capable of applying for Design Teams then never giving the outcome a second thought, so that if I heard back positive "great" & if I never heard back at all it wouldn't bother me one iota!)  It worked completely...

That was the turning point for "my luck" & I've been on such a fun ride ever since...having made it onto 6 design teams in 6 months :)  But come June & I am feeling that same old "artist's angst" again - asking myself where I am going, what I am doing & what I want to achieve...I have a lot on my mind & have decided that less is more.  I want to achieve more but that may mean doing less, if you can understand that...I want to think about what I am doing & where I want to go, rather than just racing to complete the next challenge or get the next post uploaded onto my blog.

I want to be published in Scrapbook Trends (now there's a confession) & of course the other big names too, but Scrapbook Trends is just so classy!  That's never going to happen if I don't actually submit a layout :) which I haven't yet done!!!  And if I don't commit to it it's never going to happen because there is always a deadline to meet unless I slow down & say "right, this is what I want & I'm going to do it".  So I'm going to be putting designing for their calls ahead of entering all & sundry challenges while still trying to keep up with my weekly Colour Combos Galore/The Colour Room challenges and of course my Design Team work.  

I guess you could say "my problem" is that I'm too fussy...I aim really high...but that is never going to change & that is who I am.  I am going to give it 6 months to a year of submitting to Scrapbook Trends & see if they are interested in anything I have to offer.  If not I'll come up with a plan B LOL!  Speaking of getting things published I actually have my first "something" coming out in the next issue of Creating Keepsakes!  Totally stoked about that too!!

So how's that for a peek into my psyche for you today?!?  

I also have a bee in my bonnet about my blog look.  I have decided 3 years down the line that it really is time to "bling my blog" & I have spent HOURS today trawling the internet finding snippets of images, colours, etc to help me conceptualise the entire thing & I am almost there.  90% of my ideas are already tossed out of the window & what I have settled on is SO SIMPLE and SO BEAUTIFUL.  In my mind anyway...Let's hope my blog designer (who I also found & liaised with today) can bring my vision to reality.  I'm sure it will take a while to happen but it will happen & one day you will click in here & love what you see...

I've always thought of a blog makeover as an extravagance in the past but today I just had an immediate & radical change of heart.  I'm tired of scrabbling around on freebie sites for something fresh & never really being happy with what I find (although I love Shabby Blogs in particular & really appreciate all the free stuff out there).  But it's time.  I have more to say (as I said there is a lot on my mind right now) but this is enough for one post.  

Doubt anyone has made it this far but I just wanted to say that if anyone has any questions they would like to ask me please put them right here in this post.  Reason being that I do get asked questions & I have become pretty bad at responding to them.  The desire is there but life gets in the way & I don't have time to trawl through the comments & e mail people (you don't want to see what my inbox looks like...) so I tell myself that I'll respond to them next time I leave a comment on their blog, then I forget!  Sorry :(  But I really like the idea of a Question & Answer Post so if anyone has anything they would like to ask I would love to answer & will do a post about that in a week or so (if I get any questions LOL)







34 comments:

Jessy Christopher said...

Omg!! Congrats for getting into CK!! That is one tough mag and you got it. icant wait to see which layout :) Well I am sure we have aims to be a certain scrapbook but we all just need for the right time and need to be hardworking I assume. Haha. Your day will come and hope to hear pub in SBT soon :)

Alia said...

I hope you are able to achieve all of your scrappy goals. I know I always enjoy seeing your work and your passion for crafting is evident.

Jasmine S said...

Well I did make it that far as so much of what you said is soooooo totally how I have felt. I think as a scrapper we have our aims and I know I have my little ones along the way and when you do achieve them, it makes you feel good as it would aiming and achieving in any field whether it be a hobby or work. So I too still have my little ideas about what I want and I think the ride along the way is sooooo much fun and I get to meet awesome ladies like you.
Have a great day. xx

Nadia Cannizzo said...

I also made it this far! LOL. And let me tell you I appreciate your honesty so much. I appreciate the fact that you have said what is on most of our minds. After scrapping for a while and having fun, everyone wants to be acknowledged. Then we land some DT 's and after that we want more, bigger, more popular DT's. We all need to be validated and unfortunately its shattering when we get the rejections, even if it just ' scrapping' . We all want to stand out. I see that from my kindergarten students, and I see that from grown adults such as our selves, who have busy and fulfilled lives, with children, careers , responsibilities etc.

You touched on many points that have been going through my mind the last 2 weeks. Things for me also have been building to a head and I am afraid of doing something explosive because I can be very impulsive! After all thats how OUAS started..after an impulse. LOL!

It is normal I think , to have ambition. But yeah how do some get the lucky breaks? Well..we dont know know. This happens in every field...work, family, wealth..you just wonder..

I for one cannot wait to see you at ST magazine one day. I have applied only once, but I do not think my style fits their usual things they publish..or Creating Keepsakes. ANd I have to accept that I guess.

Anyway...said my 2 cents..lol

Cant wait to see your new blog!

Leonie said...

Hi Helen, I read to the end and it was an interesting read. Well done on the 'crowning glory LO that is so unique and totally lovely. I don't think being fussy and aiming high is a 'problem' as you called it. How else do we get what we really want, i'm sure there are plenty of us who don't aim high enough! (me included) so I really admire you for setting yourself clear goals and going after them. Good luck. x

Rachael Funnell said...

Hey Helen!! First of... a Big Congrats on the Feature over @ Inspire Me!! *YAY*
Secondly.... I admire you & what you have written here!! I not very good with letting out
& releasing my emotions WELL!!! But by the time you get to the end of this Comment!! hehehehe you maybe think, WHAT THE!!! LOL!

I think we all would be or have @ some point, thought Exactly what you have written here!!! I would say I'm 1 of the late blommers..... I started this new adventure in 31 August 2010 (blog land) with all the Challenges & become DT for all these types of Challenges & Companys !! & thought the very same thing!!! @ first
BUT now I go with the flow A LOT.......
I applyed for my first DT position in december 2010 cause i thought why not got to start applying sometime LOL! & didn't get it i was a little disappointing, But got over it fairly Quickly!!
Then I applied for Webster Pages LOL!! YES! I really did......
Then applied to BITW & I SOOOOOO was & still am SUPER EXCITED... Cause I really do feel part of a team there!!!! & LOVE EVERY minute over there....
And from then on I've applied for about 4 since & there has been a couple of YAY's & a Couple of NAY's!! & im cool with That!!!
I LOVE what i do & Yes their is always going to be times when I still get a little disappointed,
BUT HEY! such is life....
I just LOVE all the wonderful & SUPER talented ladies (YOUR SELF included) that I have meet along the why... That's pretty COOL too!!!

P.S hope that makes since & Sorry for the Blah Blah Blah !!

Kerryn said...

I read your post early this morning Helen and I've been thinking about it ever since.
You have been so honest and shared so many of your personal goals and dreams that many of us would probably never voice out loud. You are very brave to put yourself out there like that. It is something to be admired because I know that I couldn't do it.

Your work is gorgeous whether or not it is published. Believe me I understand the desire to be recognised but I have also come to realise lately that what will be will be and what I want more than anything else is to continue to enjoy this hobby, because for me that's what it is - a hobby, and not end up feeling disheartened with this craft I've come to love.

So why am I saying this? LOL Well I guess I hope that while you shouldn't ever stop setting or striving to achieve your goals I hope you don't stop having fun along the way while trying to reach those goals. Because that would be a real shame.

Relax and enjoy yourself and do what feels right to YOU and the rest - what will be will be.

Take care Helen.

Kerryn said...

oh and I forgot to say congrats on the feature at Websters :).

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

I made it!! :) Girl... I totally hear you!! I have been doing some things behind the scenes lately too! I think your work is AMAZING and think anyone would be proud to have you on a team or published in their magazine!! CONGRATS on CK and the Webster's feature! You are AWESOME! :):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)

Unknown said...

Firstly CONGRATS on your feature at Websters!!! That is one amazing layout and totally deserved!I read all the way too..I totally feel how you feel...you are amazing as a person and a scrapper..keep it up :)))xx

Yolande (pronounced you-land-a) said...

Wow Helen, to be published in CK is a HUGE deal...so CONGRADS!!! Truly awesome...
Congrads on your feature at Websters too...really wonderful....you are on a roll!
Have to agree with many of the others in saying that you are incredibly brave to share your honest feelings, hopes, dreams and desires. You have achieved so much already and I know you'll continue to move onto greater and bigger things. I wish you loads of luck with being published in Scrapbook Trends. May all your scrappy dreams come true....

Kirsty Vittetoe said...

What an interesting post to read Helen! It is good to have a target and work towards it, that is totally awesome!
Oh well, I really admired your energy and being able to focus on something you really want, that is not easy itself, like me, I always say I want to send one of my card to cards magazine, but then it never ever happen, months and years have passed and I have yet to do anything, so you see, what you have there is something wonderful, go for it gal!

tania said...

first of all:CONGRATULATIONS!! your work is BLESSED helen!! I have been trying so hard to comment so i will have to put all in one!lol!! that photoshoot of yours,just brilliant you sure did that couple justice:) that little girl of yours, she is becoming one BEAUTY:)
And then, the lady Nadia said it perfectly, AMBITION, that's what it is and you HAVE IT!! Good luck with ST you will for sure impress them:)For me?? i will have to take pen and paper and wright the word ambition on that thousands of time today!!!lol!! i have lost it, to be honest! have a lovely day and this was a nice post to read:)

tania said...

oh and THANKS it is WORKING!! Google Chrome that is:)

Kiki Aposeki said...

You're a wonderful person and a great artist! And you have a fanatical fan .... ΜΕ!! Many kisses!

Stefanie said...

Congrats on being published by CK, that was a dream of mine...at least until I changed to digi and let it go. I hate that a lot of the LO's that are published there are being used to advertise product (mainly). I hate LO's that don't tell a story but just have "beautiful" or some other title and no journaling on them.
I appreciate you sharing your heart and wish you all the best in the future.
Will wait and see and then email you my further questions.

Shane said...

Gosh, I had finished my cup of tea at work before getting half way through that post and there wasn't even one mention of a brad, pixie dust, bling swirls or basic grey....(my favourites, of course, hehe). Looks like writing from the heart suits you my girl, and your readers liked it too! And by the way ladies, I hear this kind of talk often mostly whilst I'm in the bath, but my responses aren't quite as good as yours! But my wife is such a talented all rounder isn't she? You have already achieved so much. You should be very proud of yourself. See you later! xxx

Bellaidea said...

Congratulations!

Mel said...

Thanks so much for your honest confession Helen, recently I felt just the same and you have made me feel so much better knowing that I am not the only one to go through this umming and ahhing stage. Congratulations on being featured at "Inspire me" how wonderful is that and being on 6 DT's in 6 months, what an accomplishment, thanks for speaking from the heart, I feel what you are saying and have myself in the last month only completed 2 layouts for challenges and I have won both, so I guess this proved to me that scaling down and doing more of what I love doing has been the best thing for me. I love the post by your husband too, you are an awesome scrapper dear friend. Best of luck with all you do. MElxx

scrapbookertink said...

Wow, what can I say that hasn't already been said, I don't know you well enough, but I love everything that you do, I am sure you will come through this and look back and laugh, congrats on Webster's and CK and thanks for always taking the time to pop by my humble blog, Doreen x

Lynette Jacobs said...

You really have a very sweet supportive hubby...I love his loving comment up here.

I love your honesty and you have such ambition. Where scrapping is concerned I have very little ambition. I am now on 2 Design Teams...and very happy with the challenge their sketches gives me...for me that is enough. Scrapping remains for me a way of charging my batteries and creating a legacy for my children.

I know that you will achieve each of the goals you set for yourself...because you are a go-getter,

xx

Cathy said...

1st up Helen WOO HOO huge congrats on your Websters feature and on being published.. way to go!!
Secondly, I read all the way through and I think we can all relate in some way or another to all that you have written. I have been thinking quite a bit on where I want to go with this fabulous all-consuming hobby we share, I don't want to lose the fun and enjoyment I get from creating a LO, but I also don't want to miss a great opportunity when it comes along, so I'm trying to find a balance, which is not always easy. I'm sure you will achieve all your wonderful scrappy goals and I can't wait to read a blog post in the future sharing your news of being published in Scrapbooking Trends!! big hugs :)))

Eila Sandberg said...

Over this passed year I have visited numerous blogs and read a gazillion posts and comments. Yours immediately caught my eye because of how wonderfully it is written, I've told you this before haven't I. I've also noticed the frantic chase for DT positions, the unqueanchable thirst for acclaim and the omnipresent superficial praize in the industry. Your words always ring true as does your work, and your beautiful personality shines through in everything you do and say. It is only human to want to be seen and noticed and believe me, that's what we get when our actions ring in harmony with our inner selves. When we try to force something into happening, we only get disappointment. Just like both Kerryn and Cathy say, have fun and enjoy the creative process itself. When it's meant to happen, it will happen. Bask in the one happy moment at a time, there is no need to collect them on a string like trophys on a shelf. You being published, oh joy! and featured on Websters, cause for more celebration! I have no doubts whatsoever that you will reach your goals Helen, just listen to the happiness in your heart and create for the right reasons. Thank you for being you! All my love xoxoxo

Unknown said...

WOW you are amazing lady so much talent have Big Concrats ..very stunning work And WOW DETAILS!!!

hugs carla

Nicolle said...

Whoo hooo! Congrats on the feature at inspire me and being published! I got through your whole post! I always enjoy reading your blog. All well said and written. We have similar goals and I have achieved quite a few. I think us scrappers can definitely all relate. I am confident you go far. Your always so sweet and have the greatest personality. Your work is so beautiful and creatively inspiring. I am still trying to find my place in the scrappy world. Your sweet comments always help me through.. thanks. In my eyes you ROCK! (((HUGS)))

Trudi Harrison said...

Helen, Congrats on the Inspire Feature and the CK publication - WOW!! That is just so, so cool. I am sure that it is the beginning of many more scrapping successes for you - Your work is always beautiful and so very inspiring. Thank You for sharing your craft and your heartfelt thoughts and ambitions - I wish only great things for your creative journey

Diana said...

I for one was very interested in what you had to say so there. And I'm the 26th commenter, so there again! Of course we want to know... we all have these thoughts about this hobby of ours, especially when it becomes more than just a hobby, when it takes on a life of its own, as it DEfINITELY has for you.
Creating Keepsakes?! Woo hoo!
And great about Websters! After you just were saying how much you like them, how appropriate.
Keep it real my friend, I want to hear all about it.

Diana said...

I just read Shane's comment! How sweet and funny!
So cool!
Gosh I could write so much more about this post but I figure and hope we can discuss more "off air"...

yyam said...

Hi Helen! Congrats on being featured at Webster's! And on your CK publication! You are a wonderful scrapbooker and I'm sure your talents will be recognized soon enough. Continue to submit. The good thing about ST is that they are okay about publishing layouts that have been shown on blogs as long as you remove them from the site if your projects gets picked up....which means that you can still play challenges with the said project. Good luck! :)

Don't be disheartened. Sometimes the publications have a certain artistic direction to go towards for that particular issue and yours just didn't fit the theme or something. It happens! I'm sure we have all looked at projects in the magazines and wondered how they got picked when they were...err..nothing special....lol...I have had my share of rejections...but I don't want to lose my style just to be published....so therein lies the dilemma eh?

Tracee said...

Hi Helen
I read with interest this post and it got me thinking(about me) and my scrapping,so much so that, I wrote a blog post about it here http://stresstickled.blogspot.com/2011/06/validation.html
I appreciated your honesty in your post and I hope you appreciate mine!
You said questions and I do have one
You said "At the end of last year I felt I was at a crossroads with my scrapbooking & was umming & aaahing as to whether to give up trying to "make a name for myself" & just be content to continue to scrapbook for my personal satisfaction or whether I wanted to give it one last bash"
And I wondered if when you scrap in an attempt to get something published do you scrap in your true style or in a way that you feel the publisher may want and that the work you produce for that has less emotional attachment so to speak?
The reason I am asking is because up above it seemed that, for you, the 2 were quite different and from my point of view I wondered how they were different.
I enjoy seeing your work, and you have already achieved a great deal. I wish you luck in gaining your future goals! xx Tracee xx

dstandard said...

Congrats on the Websters - definitely do not get discouraged about submitting - you can be passed over simply because they want a certain color and I agree that I definitely see the same names again and again. But keep on trying - your work is awesome. I got published quite abit for awhile but the bottom line is if you don't apply you don't stand a chance - go girl - your stuff is awesome!

Keshet said...

I love this post because it totally echoes my experience with design teams--the trying and failing, and finally trusting G-d that I would get the spots I was meant to get. That also helps with the "scrap envy," because instead of thinking someone took your spot, you realize it was never yours to begin with. Great post:)

sandi said...

Wow! First...a big congrats!
I think scrapbooking is like life in general...there are highs and there are lows...the main thing is to keep everything inperspective. I think it's important to remember why we scrap...we love it..we love to see what we can create. We need to enter challenges when we can and back off when we don't have the time...after all it's really the time with the family that's important...our children grow and we can't get those years back! The other thing is...ya gotta ask yourself "do I like what I created, does it make me happy, does it have purpose"? If the answer is yes then that is really all that matters. It's about enjoying our time scrapping, not being overwhelmed by it. I read your entire post...hats off to you for being so honest...You go girl! :)

Hugs, Sandi

Sharm Nidyanandan said...

wooo hoooo!!!! Congratulations Helen!!! Awesome news indeed!! reading your post made me reflect on my life in scrapping as well...and i've come to learn to just take things as they come and believe it or not, better things came my way..I found that the more I stressed myself, the more unhappy i felt, but now, I've let go and just embrace every moment! :) Hope to hear of your work being pub in SBT soon!! xoxo