A change in direction...
I've been thinking a lot recently. About my blog. About all of you (love you!), and about how much time I spend on all my blogging things instead of on creative projects and cards and such. I really miss it.
Over the last 6 months or so, I have had to slowly let things drop by the wayside (including proof reading my posts... typos anyone? I've had a plethora recently). I'm sure you've noticed that I no longer post any cards or pages that are not related to either MACM or TwoPeas (Finally Friday videos included in that). I miss just making something for the joy of it. I miss just sitting down at my craft table and creating something for the sake of creating it. And then being so excited about it that I just have to share it with all of you.
I guess what I'm saying is that I've slowly forgotten where all the fun is. And it makes me really sad.
I simply don't have the time because I'm editing film, or editing photos for the Color Inspiration Round-ups, or I'm just exhausted from staying up late to get everything done. And it's hard to sit at a computer all day at work and then come home and sit at a computer all night.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to complain. What I'm trying to get at is that there are going to be some changes around here... Just two, but I still felt like it needed an individual blog post.
First of all, I'm making changes to the Color Inspiration Challenge. Not huge changes, just one really. There will no longer be a round-up. I love seeing all of your creations, but having to edit all the photos has sucked out all of the fun of seeing what you've all created. I just want to look through them and enjoy them for what they are. I hope you all understand. And please don't leave comments saying you wish it would come back. Believe me, I wish it could, too. It's just not possible anymore.
The second change is that I'll be switching blogging software. I'm already in the process of switching over to Wordpress. Hopefully that will make it easier to comment and such. Over the past few weeks when I had some giveaways, I hated that some of you weren't able to comment. And hopefully moving to WP will solve that.
But there's a learning curve there that I have to deal with. I've used Movable Type for YEARS (we're talking 9 years), so I have to learn how Wordpress works in order to customize it for what I need.
I'm planning to completely switch to WP over President's Day weekend. If all goes well, you won't even notice a difference besides comments posting quicker and faster page load times.
Anyway, I hope you all understand. I think this is a good thing, and I hope you think so, too. :)
Over the last 6 months or so, I have had to slowly let things drop by the wayside (including proof reading my posts... typos anyone? I've had a plethora recently). I'm sure you've noticed that I no longer post any cards or pages that are not related to either MACM or TwoPeas (Finally Friday videos included in that). I miss just making something for the joy of it. I miss just sitting down at my craft table and creating something for the sake of creating it. And then being so excited about it that I just have to share it with all of you.
I guess what I'm saying is that I've slowly forgotten where all the fun is. And it makes me really sad.
I simply don't have the time because I'm editing film, or editing photos for the Color Inspiration Round-ups, or I'm just exhausted from staying up late to get everything done. And it's hard to sit at a computer all day at work and then come home and sit at a computer all night.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to complain. What I'm trying to get at is that there are going to be some changes around here... Just two, but I still felt like it needed an individual blog post.
First of all, I'm making changes to the Color Inspiration Challenge. Not huge changes, just one really. There will no longer be a round-up. I love seeing all of your creations, but having to edit all the photos has sucked out all of the fun of seeing what you've all created. I just want to look through them and enjoy them for what they are. I hope you all understand. And please don't leave comments saying you wish it would come back. Believe me, I wish it could, too. It's just not possible anymore.
The second change is that I'll be switching blogging software. I'm already in the process of switching over to Wordpress. Hopefully that will make it easier to comment and such. Over the past few weeks when I had some giveaways, I hated that some of you weren't able to comment. And hopefully moving to WP will solve that.
But there's a learning curve there that I have to deal with. I've used Movable Type for YEARS (we're talking 9 years), so I have to learn how Wordpress works in order to customize it for what I need.
I'm planning to completely switch to WP over President's Day weekend. If all goes well, you won't even notice a difference besides comments posting quicker and faster page load times.
Anyway, I hope you all understand. I think this is a good thing, and I hope you think so, too. :)
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posted on February 5, 2009 7:02 PM by Kristina |
188 Comments posted in General |
That's a ok with me just love to see your work....
Kristina --
Kudos to you! Sincerely. I found myself at one point feeling overwhelemd and said, "I need to find myself a hobby." Umm.. yeah... stamping and scrapbooking IS my hobby .. it just happens to be my job, too.
Relax. Enjoy your hobby -- your passion. You are amazing, talented and so fun and I, for one, will look forward to seeing more of your inspired work... not just your "required work."
Stamps and Smiles!
I totally understand. While I do not do as much work as you do I'm finding that the pressure of having projects to post on my blog everyday is taking the joy out of it for me also. I've changed some things in my creative process so that doing a blog doesn't take the fun out of it. I love so much about doing it that I wanted to still do it but have fun too. So I totally get it. And appreciate anything you share with us on your blog -- round up or not.
makes sense to me. if it's more draining than life-giving, LET IT GO, baby. losing the round-up won't kill any of us...we still can see everybody's creations. go u.
Been there, Kristina! There comes a time where we all need to make sure we are making time for the things that are "most important" and let the rest go. It's not fun to be stressed all the time!! Do what you can and want and let all other expectations go. And know you are loved!
Good for you Kristina! There's just no fun in feeling stampingly-obliged and losing the joy! Great news about Wordpress too! I have been using WP for a couple of years and LOVE it! I'm sure you will too :)
Just take care of yourself. We all want you to put the fun back into your life.
I've had these same feelings about feeling like I needed to post and/or blog about all of my terrific (tic) creations. It puts a huge weight on your creativity and makes it no longer fun, which defeats part of the purpose. I love wordpress, have used it for a few years. Only thing is that some of the templates and/or features don't play nice with Safari. If you're a mac girl I'd recommend using firefox on wp. saves the headaches!
You know what? I will love it still :) Have fun :)
hola ... not write well in English but wanted to tell you should do what makes you happy and it is very important to have fun with your designs to follow ...... So: GO!
I doubt anyone will be upset if you are no longer enjoying creating and playing. I would much rather you post once a week and be excited about it than post everyday and have it be uninspired and stressful to you. Do what's best for you and forget the rest!
Hi There!!! We will still love you and stop by whenever and whatever you post!!! Never let the fun leave what you do, we all understand!!!!
Kristina,
You need to do what is best for you... no one else!
You need to take care of yourself and not take on the burdens of the blogworld-at-large.
Thank you for all you have done for all of us and what you have accomplished. You are a very talented and dedicated young lady.
Do not compromise yourself -health, happiness, sanity - to do something that has become a burden.
Sit back, re-evaluate, re-direct and enjoy the ride... you girlfriend, work too hard!
So push away from the computer, call a few friends and go out for ice cream or cupcakes or whatever and enjoy being the wonderful person your were created to be... but above all, RELAX.
Peace I leave with thee,
Marilyn geneva1599@juno.com
Love your blog.....support you 110%!!
It's ok..... go ahead, you've got choices ....especially when you wonder why you're not having fun anymore.
Come on now...get back in your fun groove and have FUN!!!!
You go girl!!! We're all here behind you.
borrowing the words of the great philosopher Bobby McFerrin, "Don't worry. Be happy." who puts this pressure on us for daily posts anywho?! ourselves?! same w the color roundups (tho' I'll greatly miss the picture snippets, LOL)! I think you should do what you want to do (wait! is that another song?!) ... we're just glad for your posts and are just along for the ride, girl! TFS!
- a fan
I love reading your blog and seeing your fantastic creations. And it's great that you're getting more time for yourself, cos it's so important! You go girl!
Hola Kristina!
Hey girly! You have all my support here! I can see how overwhelmed you are! It seems you do more work than enjoying what it is all about.
Hopefully in the future things will change and things will calm down and you can do the same things what you were doing before. But hey, everyone needs a break! This can be tiring what you do on the side. Who wants to be tired while crafting!
So enjoy the extra time!
Hugs!
Yaneri from sunny Orange County, California....well actually it's not sunny....its raining hard! Girl you were luckly to take your Disney vacation. Were expected 4 days of hard rain!!
No worries! :) I'm just glad you're not quitting blogging altogether! :) Thanks for always inspiring me!
I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND! Although I LOVE your blog, sometimes I get depressed seeing all these awesome blogs like yours and wonder how they have more hours in their day than me, why can't I be more productive, etc. Your email today was from the heart and made me feel like you are a REAL HUMAN BEING and not a stamping machine! KUDOS to you!
Hey Kristina, you gotta do what you gotta do! It's no fun if it's become all work; we'll be here whenever you're inspired to share; Now, have a GREAT, relaxing weekend!
Kathy
Kristina,
I definitely understand and didn't see how you had the time to do it all to begin with! :) I'm just thankful I got the chance to experience your energy for so long! Thanks for the color inspiration challenges...they're great!
I look forward to see creative, fun projects soon!
Kristina,
I've been enjoying your blog for over a year, maybe close to two years :) I have to tell you, I really have missed your scrapbook creations. It seems that I used to see more posts before the MACM, and Color Challenges.
I have only participated in the last 4 or 5 color challenges and they have helped me! But I'm just happy that we'll be seeing more of your creations for creations sake, not because you feel you owe it to all of us.
You have so many fans and I'm sure we will all support your decision to let something go. I have my own blog and I couldn't imagine doing all the things that you do for your blog and fans :)
Thank you for always imspiring me and I look forward to seeing what else you come up with. :)
Hi Kristina!
I agree when Lorri says "Your email today was from the heart and made me feel like you are a REAL HUMAN BEING", but i am really sorry to say that without round-up, Color Inspiration won't be the same :(
Kristina,
I was a daily visitor to your blog before you ever started your inspiration challenges. I will enjoy visiting your blog still, even with the changes.
I understand completely, as I have changed from selling my cards and projects, to just making them for my family's b-day and special events. I too was tired of the amount of time I was putting into my orders and I wasn't enjoying the creative process anymore. It has been so nice since I made those changes. I hope you will experience the same. Keep your great cards and projects coming... I'll be looking for them. :o)
I think it's a great idea. I miss seeing your posts where you are super excited with what you came up with. To be honest, I read your posts more and paid more attention to your blog when it was like that. The random blogging is so much more fun!
I love your blog, I think you're a massive inspiration and I love your work!! I'm just grateful to have found your blog in the first place, and no matter where it ends up...I will always be visiting :)
Thank you Kristina. You are truly amazing.
Congrats for you for connecting with what is important to you. Your work is incredible, can't wait to see more!
Totally understand, Kristina! You need to get back to the joy of creating for you! And, when you do that and share it with us, we are so grateful. Thank you!
Kristina - You do not need to apologize for any of the changes that you want to make. You have been a major inspiration to me in regards to cardmaking and I could never thank you enough for that! I can't even begin to imagine the amount of work that it goes into making videos, doing the round up (over the past few weeks there have been so many to look at!), and doing stuff for twopeas. I mean, making one card for me can take up to an hour!
I always look at it from the point of view that it's ultimately YOUR blog and you should be able to do what you enjoy. If anyone says that you have to adhere to a certain routine, it not only gets boring, but it also is not fun anymore. That to me is called work.
Anyway, I will still enjoy your blog no matter which direction you take it. Just keep it up! :)
YOu know what....I miss you just being able to upload your cards...the stuff you do for fun!!! That is why most of us are here in the first place (and certinly me)...because we happened upon one of your cards on SCS or was blog surfing and liked what we saw!! No contests, no challenges...just awesome cards!! So, I am totally fine with you dropping the round up!! And honestly, I'd love it if you would just have fun making cards and then show us as often as you can what you've made!!!!!! Thanks for caring enough to post about it!!
Less stress for you is a wonderful thing! Besides, this way, everyone makes the top 10 ;-) If you find that you are not having fun, it's time to make some changes for sure! I love your challenges and am really happy you're not stopping them. I personally don't need to see my name in lights to have a great time with it and I so love going to see what everyone else comes up with too. You Rock... Keep it fun girl!
Good for you!!! Wise choice! I found myself having similar feelings about a year ago relating to hand-made cards. I LOVE making cards, but it had become a chore to give EVERYONE a handmade card for every birthday, anniversary, get well, sympathy, graduation, wedding that came along. I have a HUGE list each month and the joy was gone. So, I decided to change. I would make cards for the joy of doing it and have a stash and when the stash was empty, well no card would be sent or an e-card would be sent or "gasp" a store bought card. My joy of card-making is back. :-)
Thank you so much for honestly sharing with all of us. Get your rest! You're worth it :-).
Blessings -- Becky
Good for you, Kristina! Just remember that this is YOUR blog, so you can do whatever is right for YOU! No matter what you decide to do, I will keep coming back for the inspiration! :)
Sounds good to me! Are you still going to have time limit in the color challenge? The question is if you're going to share with us all the things that you'll be doing? :D I hope so!
Greetings, take care,
Ilse
I LOVE seeing the cards you make. I appreciate all the other stuff that you do, but just seeing your creativity is all I need to keep coming up back. Share when you want - you're on blog reader forever!
Thanks!
I TOTALLY understand Kristina!!! I'm sure most people will. It's rather ironic. I was just teaching some gals from church at an Enrichment meeting how to set up blogs for their families, and one asked how to get little "collages" of pictures - and I asked her if she meant "like this" and showed her one of your round-ups. She said yes and I told her I'd ask you how. So, I am asking you if you could tell me how - or what program - or something to point her in the right direction. BUT, now that I see how busy you are, I understand if you can't get back to me. It would be great, but I do understand if you can't. I think not doing a round-up is not a big deal - I at least do your challenges to challenge myself and because you have such great combos and I love to see what everyone else does. Your changes won't change any of that!! :) Take care, and take care of yourself!!!! We'll all still be here 'cause we love you!!
Kristina ~
I would to say thank you for all that you have done for all of us! I myself have learned so much from you that I now refer to you as my "Stampin Idol". I often wondered to myself how you are you able to do everything you do, you give so much of you to us! Again, thank you!
BTW I registered for the 2Peas B-day crop in Madtown!
I hope I have the opportunity to take a pick with my "Stampin Idol" :)
Hey StarofMay,
Glad you came to your senses LOL! You know we will still be here lurking, so enjoy the time you will be saving by not having to go through all of our cards, and make something fun for us to see..... from YOU instead!
Enjoy~ ButternutSage
frankly I miss the old Kristina... glad you are stepping back and taking a breathe.....I liked your randomness in the olden days (okay I am using alot of typos...on purpose of course)
I'm not surprised you don't want to keep the round up going - your challenges are soooo popular now I have been feeling overwhelmed for you!! You get back to what you enjoy - and we'll have fun seeing your creations and playing along with your challenges!
All the best for your new direction - you have a lot of support!
I am so happy about your decisions! We were so happy to partake of your devotion to us. All though I am happy for you to do whatever will keep you enjoying your blog, so that you can still share with us your creative mind.
As for the Color Challenges, I always look at every link. You have alot of creative fellow bloggers that I love to check out! Not the roundup but each posting.
I hope you are able to get back to the art of cards, and enjoy this again.
Thank you for everything!!
I think it's a great idea. Even though we love all the stuff you do for us...you gotta take time to enjoy it for yourself.
I look forward to what you are going to do. And I hope the joy and excitement to share comes back to you. You create pretty cool stuff.
Thanks for all you do!
I can only *imagine* the time you spend on your blog! It is SUPAH AMAAAAAZING!!!!!
As long as you post YOUR amazing creations and YOUR 'two cents', we'll be happy! :)
{HUGS}
Kristina -
good for you! as my yoga teacher always says "you must follow your prana".
It is hard to be creative and lighthearted when we feel "bound" by obligation.
I love your blog! I LOVE your creations and I look forward to checking in with you. I intend to continue to do all that.
Thanks for all the inspiration and for being a "battery charger"!
T
Better you realize this now than after when you are totally burnt out and just drop it all. You have a great talent, great creativity and you are a great inspiration. Take the time you need, do what you need to do and share what you can. Be well and enjoy. Thanks for your honesty.
I only came across your blog recently, but I love your color challenges. And really, while I've secretly been dying to be included in the roundup, well, I'm not that good yet (besides, I don't really do cards because I suck at them). ANYWAYS, your color challenges are more inspirations. Maybe that's what you should change it to. It really makes me think outside the box. I appreciate it.
Oh, and I am all about simplifying. No need to stress yourself out when you don't have to.
Lots of people have already offered you encouraging words of support. I just want to say I am right there with them, and you. Your Twitters say it all--you need a break girl. You are doing the very best thing for yourself and your creative soul. Slow down, simplify, and relax. You owe your blog readers no explanations. Take care of yourself!
i miss the fun you had too and can't wait to see some just because posts come back as well... i won't mind the changes at all - i love the mister linky addition, it makes looking at the cards a little easier and i have found some really cool blogs because of it - no one should be anything but grateful to you for sharing so much of your time with us - i want you to enjoy this as much as i do -
It's good to unclutter. We should all get back to "The Basic's" I look forward to seeing your NEW creativity!
Kristina,
Don't apologize for needing to take some time for yourself, I think you have done an amazing job both professionally and in your blog. I don't know where you find the time to fit it all in!
You are only young and take it from me that you need to spend time doing what you want to do not what you feel obligated to do. The work that you do here and at work prove what a creative person you are don't lose sight of the joy and passion that you get from that by being bogged (or should that be blogged) down with getting it 'all' done.
I am sure that many of your readers would agree that we would rather have you happy and healthy and a little less than have you stressed, worn out and not at all.
so take things slowly, take time to smell the roses instead of the coffee trying to stay awake. Go back to drinking coffee for the pleasure and taste and not the stimulation lol.
thanks again for all you do
I understand! I love how you are still keeping the CIs! I really enjoy them. I hope the switching to WP is smooth.
Kristina - Don't worry about the changes. It's all about enjoying what you do. This is probably more than you wanted to know but ...here goes.
Over the past few months I've been having a really hard time. It got to the point that it was difficult to do day to day things. I didn't even want to talk to my friends or family. A while back I discovered your website and I know this sounds extreme....but it's really the only thing that got me through that period of time. You inspired me to begin making cards and stop thinking about everything that wasn't going well.
Just know that you bring joy and happiness to other people. So, what you do in your spare time should definitely bring joy to you.
I saw your twitter about wanting an assistant and it got me thinking about ways your readers can get more involved. I'm definitely not as tech savvy as you when it comes to blogging and editing video...but I'm sure other readers might be. Maybe you can profile some of their pre-edited and formated videos. People can post on their website and you could link to their page...with maybe a short blurb about why it's awesome :) Just a thought...
But definitely stop feeling bad about the changes....but please please please....don't stop blogging.
I have often wondered where you find the time to do all that you do with your blog, two peas, stampin up, traveling... and the list goes on. I'm pretty sure that the people who love you and what you do, will understand. I know I do! Take some time to breathe girl!
i know what you mean. it is frustrating when the things you love doing become obligations. life is too short... we've gotta have as much fun as possible :O)
a very good decision you made there! you're absolutely right to hit the brakes when you're feeling drained and and exhausted. I can totally relate. so minding the signals your body and mind are giving you is only being healthy and taking care of yourself. you're definitely on the right track. no need to feel guilty or anything! :o) I love your work and I'm so thankful for you and your creativity and energy. Thanks for being there - with or without color inspiration roundups ;o) God bless you!
Good on you for being brave enough to make changes!
You have to love what you do, and if doing away with the round-up is what it takes, then I'm sure that everyone will stand behind you. We can all still look at the wonderful creations that everyone does, so we aren't losing anything.
Hope you "find" lots of time back in your life to do what you love best! Sharlene
Kristina I am sure you will love wordpress. I tried other blogging platforms but wordpress wins hands down. I love seeing what you've created and I think when our creating becomes a chore its time for a new direction or to let go of certain things and make way for us to get back to creating for enjoyment.
I feel for you, and kudos for taking action. I hope that you are able to get to your happy place to just create, becuase that is what it is all about! I love your work.
Hey Kristina, totally understandable! I was wondering about the burnout issue for you as well, so thanks for bearing it as long as you did! My husband swears by wordpress, so I'm sure it'll be great. It really didn't take that long at all to set up a blog (no HTML required on the latest version!). Good luck moving everything over.
It was such a pleasure to meet you at CHA, Kristina! I'm so proud of you for making a choice that is best for YOU. About two years ago, I realized I had become a slave to my blog, and there was no more joy, no more fun in just being creative for the sake of that alone. I almost shut the blog down entirely. Once I adopted the "blogging without obligation" philosphy, I got my joy back! You stay happy, stampin' happy, girl! *mondo hugs* Julie
I've followed your blog for over a year... and have watched it grow and grow and take on a life of it's own and wondered HOW THE HECK IS SHE ABLE TO DO ALL THIS?? Not possible! And you have so many people relying on you- it's too much! You're only one supreme being and there's thousands of us!!! It's totally okay to reign it in a bit... but thank you for giving so much. I hope you find your personal stamping joy comes back soon!
(ps- i love wordpress- it won't be too hard to learn!)
Good for you for setting boundaries and limits to
protect what you love to do!! I really enjoy your
blog and know that we as readers benefit from what
you share but it shouldn't be at the expense of your
own creative energy and enjoyment.
I just like trying out the colors. Some are just not me and I swear, some of those ink pads are still wrapped even though I've had them for years :)
I was starting to wonder when you have time for other things but videos and photo editing. It'll be good for you, you'll have a much more fun!
If you need help with WP, let me know. I never got into MT but have been using WP for years. I use it for my personal blog but I do this for work too so I've used all sorts of plug-ins and crap. That's why I'm so lazy with my own stuff -- templates :) Oh, if you like templates and you don't know this site, check out smashingmagazine.com. Nice WP template finds - free.
Some plug-in tips:
Smart YouTube is the best for youtube videos. You can even set it to go to the HQ/HD videos directly just by typing a few letters behind the http.
If you go to my blog, I have a digitut menu. I use the Category-Page plugin. What it does is it'll automatically create a list like what I have in my digitut menu. So each time I add a tut and I pick digitut for the category, the Category-Page title will add it on that page. Did that make sense?
Akismet is the best. Can't do without.
I use Ajaxed WordPress for inline comments and TinyMCE to make my blog creations more enjoyable.
I can install and hack codes manually but I love using Fantastico. But, when you upgrade, just remember to set the theme to default and disable plug-ins. It's a pain if one isn't compatible.
This might be cool for you. I haven't tried it... I don't have enough visitors for it, but have you seen seesmic and Disqus? You can see a sample here: http://thejavajive.com
But with Seesmic, visitors can leave video responses. Again, haven't tried it yet but you can mash up Disqus and Seesmic together and plug them into WP. I'll try it, prob., for the sake of knowledge :)
I also use to have the option to follow/get notify when there's a comment. I can't remember what it was tho. That would be nice for your site.
Ok, I started writing a book. But, if you have any question, let me know.
Glad you're making time for you. That's what I plan on doing after May -- baby #2 is coming for me :)
K (can I call you that?) I think it's great that you are analyzing where you should/want to be spending your time. I come by your blog to see your creations and will be happy with whatever you end up doing, as long as you continue to share (and inspire). Thanks for all of the thought behind the action.
Kristina, I have been checking in on your blog for several months now...loving all you share and do and I have wondered how in the world you do it all. You owe nothing to us Kwerner junkies...we owe you our gratitude and thanks for sharing your God-given talents with all of us. I'm glad you see limits for yourself. I wish you well in all you do and we will still enjoy checking in and having fun in what you and others do. A big THANK-YOU over and over again!
Thank you for your blog. I'm sure it will be wonderful however it works out. Please take care of yourself!
From your title I was afraid you'd say you'll stop blogging or worse, creating! Whew! I completely understand the changes. Looking forward to your WP blog, hope it'll be better for you. :-)
I have a great suggestion.......
Why don't you use the widget call Mister Linky's. http://www.blenza.com/linkies
This blog is an example of how it works -
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/
All you have to do is setup the widget,and we (your loyal fans) do all the work!!!
I truly understand you. You have to have your own time to create with no pressure. Well, you spoiled us ;) But we'll survive ;) (I should speak for myself ;) I hope you find the joy in creating again.
moi
Good for you! Do what is right in your heart and all will be well. I just want to thank you for all the inspiration that you have given to all of us in blog land :-)
Many Blessings to You!
I'm happy you came to this decision and it's one you had to make yourself. I can see how the Color Challenges were getting so popular, yet time consuming for you and it's sad if it was draining your creativity...I'm glad you caught it in time, and I hope you find your inner self once more, and take care of YOU!
I so totally know what you mean! I've been thinking the same thing myself lately... it's way to easy to get caught up in "doing" stuff and just not enjoying it! I decided that I was no longer going to participate in any challenge/sketch just because I always had... there is just SOOO much out there and it's way to easy to get caught up in doing everything. Anyways! The color challenges are so much fun and I've really enjoyed doing them almost every week since the beginning. But, seriously, the round up isn't the important part, though I'll admit that it feels pretty darn good when you pick something of mine! If you have to drop the color challenges all together eventually, then just do it and don't worry about it! It's not worth it when it feels like a drain... we love your creativity too much! Well, anyways! I say all that to encourage you and say thank you for all the time and effort you have given so freely to us in the past!
Big hugs from Morocco!!
Tina
I can SO understand this! Really!
I was always wondering how you can manage your blog, a full time job and your private life (which there is, right? ;-)
So go a few steps back and enjoy crafting just for the fun of it!
Bianca
It is wonderful to know you are human too *wink* I just thought I was incredibly lazy. That is great you are simplifying things. I am so glad you are keeping MACM and Finally Friday videos. I love them!
I totally sympathise - since I've started blogging I don't do as much crafting - and I seem to be doing challenges and not making something because I want to - and I don't even have 1% of the workload you must have with such a popular blog. Hope this gives you the time out you need to refind your love of craft because you want to not because you have to. x
Good for you Kristina! When your passion becomes too much work, the passion slips away. I'm so glad you recognized the problem and found a way to solve it. Don't listen to the complainers...
Good for you Kristina! Your blog is fabulous, and it will always be a great place to visit, but you've got to do what you've got to do to keep your sanity! I don't know how you've kept it up for so long. You take care of yourself, and most of all - enjoy it!
Good for you Kristina! Your blog is fabulous, and it will always be a great place to visit, but you've got to do what you've got to do to keep your sanity! I don't know how you've kept it up for so long. You take care of yourself, and most of all, enjoy it!
Hi Kristina,
As a newcomer to your colour challenges, I really appreciate the effort you put into posting them. I love being able to go through your Mr Linky list and check out what other people have done with it - it is so inspiring. Don't worry about the round up - the inspiration is all still there to share! Relax, enjoy... and *thankyou*
Claire
xx
Im cool for that. Thanks for doing the round ups in tha past - totally understand how time consuming it must be.
Can you please keep Mr Linky so we can still view everyones creations?
Jo :)
I compleatly understand you! And you shuld have no bad feeling at all about this.
Wordpress is great! Youre gonna learn to use it in now time (i have it aswell)
Hugs!
Hi Kristina,
A big Kudos to you. You are only human and you put so much work into what you do that sometimes the best thing is to get back to basics of why you started doing what your doing in the first place. Yes it's fun to do all these great elaborate things but if they suck the life out of you what is it for? Certainly not yourself. I think it's a really good thing for you to get back to the things you love, yes we your fans may suffer a little but you do so much for us that I think we'll all get over it!
I will miss the round up's they make it easier than looking at all 200 entries BUT I think you are making a very good decision! I hope that you can get back to doing what you love very soon!
Hugs, Dani
Kristina we understand totally! I also work full time and couldn't imagine how you could find the time to even look at all the entries, let alone pick and edit your top ones!
I love your work and look forward to your blog updates, but they've got to be because you want to, not because you feel you have to. You deserve a rest, we'll still be here when you're ready and excited to share your own creations again!
Truth be told, some weeks I put myself under a lot of pressure to enter your challenges, I know others do too. Maybe you could do them less frequently even, if that would help you?
Good on you! Do what you feel is right!!
Kristina, I understand what you are talking about. To be creative must be in the first place: having fun. If you don't have fun anymore when you make something because you need to make it and there is presure behind it, than the fun is gone. Do the things you like and enjoy doing it. I always look forward to your posts and to the things you make. I still looking forward to your blog but it is important that you have fun.
Have fun and enjoy making things.
Have a great weekend.
Greetings, Nanda
Sending some hugs from Norway. Don't feel bad, I totally understand. Your creativity and talent is the number 1 reason why I follow your blog. I am looking forward to se more of your design on WP.
Thank yo for explaining it to us - we probably dont tell you often enough how much we appreciate what you do (least I am not sure I do!)
I totally understand - crafting should first and formost be fun. I am sure the joy will come back and I look forward to sharing it with you
Thank you for everything
Bekka
x
I totally understand, Kristina. Sometimes you just have to let things go. Creativity is supposed to be fun and it's always more fun when it's something we want to do, not something we have to do.
I will look forward very much to seeing what you create just for the fun of it.
Hugs!
Everytime I visit your blog I think about the time and energy you must put in to work at keeping it at such a high standard. When it is no fun anymore then I totally think it is time to step back and take a look and rethink. No matter what you decide to do, they will come....everyone loves your cards and videos. I am feeling like you...too busy to just sit and enjoy the creating process and still have time to just veg out.
Take care and I'm sure everyone will be behind you all the way.
I totally support and understand your decision. We all strive for worklife balance and the first step is drawing the line. Can't wait to see how having more time to create inspires you. ;)
Kristina - you put so much effort into your blog, and so much time and energy into passing on your wonderful creativity to your blog followers....and while I am immensely grateful for your effort, you have to remember that this is supposed to be fun for you too, and it has to give YOU something back at the end of the day, not just another chore to fit in between the vacuuming and the cleaning.
I hope that this relieves some of the pressures on your time and gives you the time and space you need to enjoy the creative process again.
I know I speak for everyone when I say how gratfeul we all are for all your blog posts and youtube videos, and I'm sooo glad you're not giving up blogging altogether (I'd be gutted!!) just glad you're thinking of yourself for once too.
BIG hugs from me, all the way from England :-)
Wendy xx
I do understand. I've never understood how some bloggers can have new content every day - I'm lucky if I have new content weekly. You make such beautiful cards and scrapbook pages and I've missed seeing them and will be glad to see more of them again.
YAY! Get back to doing what you love to do - when it is a chore or an effort - and it is no longer fun - that is when you need to rethink - I commend you for that Kristina!
I totally understand, I to am a graphic designer and frankly my brain shuts down after a day trying to be on. Do what you need to do to make things easier for you I still will be participating.
I know you have heard this about 90 times already but I totally understand. You have a lot of support out here, and you need to love what you do. I was thinking, if you still want to do the color inspiration round up you could just include the winner's name and a link to the top ten, or what ever. I know it is not as cool as the picture link, but it would probably still give everyone the urgency to participate. If eliminating it all together gives you more sanity, then I say go for it. I just want to say that you have inspired me in so many ways! Thank you!
Hugs, Shawntel
Totally! Bring the joy back!
Good for you - its hard to say no, and hard to simplify, but blogging is really about sharing the love of the craft, and if all the edit work takes the love out of it, then its simply NOT worth it. I'm always so inspired by your creations! Maybe having people post their photos to something like flickr or a web gallery with a special code so that people can view the submissions all together versus having to click through the links?
Kristina, Just like everyone else has said, it's totally understandable that you need to cut back on what you're doing with your blog if it's stealing some of your joy. Thanks for all you do for all of us ... we appreciate it. Happy Creating!
Understand completely... actually i feel guilty leaving this comment... just one more thing for you to read! ;0)
For quite awhile I've wondered how you do it all. Good for you for realizing what you need and taking action.
GOOD FOR YOU! I just love your work and will happily continue to visit your blog every day even if you let ALL these extras go and just post YOUR creations!
You inspire so many by doing what you love. Get back to it and make your heart happy! :)
Andra
friend!! no worries on what you need to do for you! you blog is such the bomb...whatever you do!! i'm sure your fans will support you and bouy you up...we all LOVE you!!!
xooxox
I have loved and thoroughly enjoyed your blog more than any other and will continue to do so. Life is too short not to enjoy all that we do and if something like this isn't fun anymore...or seems like a chore...then it is best to let it go. I will still continue to participate as I can and I thank you so much for all you have taught me and inspired me to create!!! You are awesome!
Thank you
Sue
Kristina... Your work is always so inspirational and amazing and it is for THAT very reason that I and all of your other Loyal followers visit your Blog. I look forward to seeing MORE of your beautiful work and participating in your Challenges.
Take care Kristina and ENJOY creating.
Love Sarah
xxx
Great decision, Kristina,
don't be affraid, I understand and continue to follow you!
PEACE ON YOUR HEART!
x x Marie-Josée
Kristina-
I think that this is a great idea. I have been following your blog for some time now and I love it. But I have noticed lately that the blog isn't the same. Get back to your roots...do what you love. I think that your blog will come out better in the end.
Remmeber that paper crafting is a hobby, a passion, something that you should always enjoy doing. If you don't enjoy it, then whats the point of all of this at the end of the day.
Do what makes you happy!
Ruby2Shoes
I only found your blog a little while ago, but think your work is beautiful. I have found you really inspiring, but I too wondered how you were managing to fit it all in. I entered your last challenge for the first time. I love looking through different people's interpretations of your challenges so am really pleased that you are keeping the links in.
Life is too short to be doing something that's not making you entirely happy. I hope by making this decision you will start to enjoy your card making and feel fulfilled again :o) Ruby x
Hi Kristina,
your work is very ispiring, I totally understand making these changes, cause if you don't enjoy what you are doing then we won't either.
thanks for all your wonderful ideas on your blog!
Take care of yourself....
I love to see your creations and hope you share them with us whenever you can...Whenever!
Take care and relax!
xoxo
Gabi
Good for you!! Life is too short to not enjoy what you do. Anyone who misses anything will find something else to fill that vacancy. We will all benefit from this because you will be more relaxed, rested, inspired, and having fun creating even more creative projects. Please take lots of time to enjoy life because you can't go back.
Whatever you decide works for me! I just love and appreciate what you do have time to post! :)
I've often wondered how you keep up with everything you do. Good for you that you recognize the direction you need to go. It is so very important to be happy doing what you're doing. I'll be looking forward to seeing what you create in a more relaxed state of mind. Oh and WordPress...once you get used to it, you'll love it! Good luck, Kristina!
Goodness Kristina, you're way too young to be burning out. Life is relentless. It goes on with or without you.I'm so glad you're able to put things into perspective. Enjoy your life , we only get one go 'round!!!!
Don't do anything if you're not completely enjoying it. You'll eventually resent the things you used to love.
Having said that, I so enjoy your videos. If you end up having to give up one or both of those to make your life work, then go ahead and do it. Just know that while you ARE doing them, they are appreciated!
It occurred to me awhile back that you had to be one very BUSY person what with all the ongoing "public" projects you were doing. I wondered how you had the time to do all the other "stuff" in life. My days feel overloaded and I don't have a regular J-O-B (I am a self-employed artist) and arrival of my new puppy has just overloaded me. I think it's great that you are taking care of yourself even though it may feel like a sort of punch to the Ego. I'll be reading your blog to keep up with your journey.
Krista, I can totally relate to what you are saying as a SU Demonstrator. I get tired of making projects for clubs and classes sometimes, and miss the days of just creating for the fun of it. I can't imagine how you do all the cool videos and stuff and still have time to work, eat, and shower (hope you do that sometimes! LOL!) I just love your designs and am happy to see a new one via a quick photo, whenever. Don't stress about your blog being the technically coolest place on the web, we just love your work.
Do what is best for YOU! Maybe a code for us to use as our keyword for tagging photos in the gallery so just search by keyword and get eveyrone's super creations together that way???
You definitely need to do what's best for you. Sometimes, letting go of responsibilities (even responsibilities that you LOVE) can add a lot of happiness to our lives. I know I have given up things that I loved and in the long run, it made my life much happier (and my family much more taken care of!)
ABSOLUTELY take care of YOU FIRST. Never ever forget that.
Kristina: Don't fret one bit about changing your blog. Your blog is a gift of time to us all and, if the fun is waning, you should feel okay about changing it!
Thank you for sharing your creativity with us.
You share and do an amazing amount of work right now and I am glad to see that you are making changes to benefit YOUR creative time! Enjoy and thanks for sharing all that you do!
Kristina,
I absolutely love your blog. The whole point for me when it comes to your color challenge is to expand my creative process by using new colors. I enjoy looking at all of the entries not just the round-up and I will continue to do so, round-up or not! I would love to see more of your "happy, enjoyable" work that you post once in a while instead of an average something everyday just to have a post! One piece of advice I was given that I live by is that "you have to look out for yourself because nobody else will"! Keep yourself happy life is too short! You will still have so many followers you won't know what to do!
Thanks for all that you have done and will continue to do!
Brandi
Hi Kristina!
Thank you for the post. I have to say I enjoyed seeing everyone else's cards, too, but I really missed just seeing the cards you make. I have been following your blog for a couple of years now and have really enjoyed it. I will continue to follow it I love your ideas and love that you keep things "simple". Thanks for sharing your talents!
Lori
Kristina,
if all these comments are any indication of anything..it means we support you 110% in whatever you need to do. I love your blog, and I love finding the colour challenge posted..the top 10 part, meh..could take or leave that, because usually I have looked thru the mr linky posts and commented on the ones i liked. so that being said..i dont see it being a huge transition. you are a talented girl, and the fact taht you take us into your world, is somewhat of an honour. i love to hear your cheerful voice, even the unedited one with jen put a smile on my face. you do what you need to do for you and nobody else!
hugs, and if u need a penpal to vent to, feel free to get a hold of me..always room open for a new friend!
HI Kristina!!!
Just wanted to say we all totally understand- and by the way LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog!!!! Look forward to reading it every day! I Feel really inspired every time I visit!
Thanks for sharing your creativity!
Kristina, I'm sure all your readers will completely understand. We all appreciate the blog updates, videos, and EVERYTHING else you do to keep us entertained :) Frankly, I never knew how you did it all!! Do whatever you need to do to get your Happy back!
Kristina,
I've been visiting your blog for over two years and have been amazed and impressed with the way it has evolved and grown, and I've always wondered how you managed to do it all. You've become so successful and popular in the papercrafting and scrapbooking world -- I knew you would! I'm glad to see you considering yourself, and getting back to what makes you happy. Keep doing for YOU!!
I love your blog and I check it out all the time. I know the changes you have planned won't stop me from being a fan. Good luck and be happy!
I honestly have wondered how you do it all and not go insane. i guess you have been going a little insane. I hate to think that we have been sucking all the fun out of papercrafting for you. now that is just a pity. I am so glad you will be finding more time to create yourself and having more fun in your life. I am still excited to see all that you create. You really have inspired me so much in the short time I have been visiting your blog. I know that you will continue to inspire as long as you get the freedom you need to create yourself. so bring on the changes and the new you!
I completely understand how you feel, and I've been wondering for the past few months just how you manage to keep all your many projects going when I can't seem to complete even one during a week! I really expected you to say that you were going to be giving up much more than you are. I hope you find the joy in just being creative again!
Kristina, you are AMAZING :) I know how it feels to have to just craft for obligations and not for the joy of it. Its no good! You need some more time to do things that make you happy, just to make you happy! Have a great weekend :)
I'm not sure how you did it all before, so I completely understanding your changes. I think it will be GREAT to see more of your designs...things that you did for the fun of it and not because you had to create a video for 2 Peas or MACM. I love the videos, too, but you could spend a lot more time creating if you didn't have the video editing and such. And I can only imagine how much time you took to go through all the color challenge submissions, much less cutting down the pics for 15-25 of them! So good for you...you're making necessary changes for you, and I think we'll all still be better for it. Thanks for sharing your talent with us, in any way you do.
I think all your fans (including me) will totally understand. You're only human! I'm sad for you to hear that the fun is draining from all the work and that's unacceptable! Do what you love, and love doing it! Props to you my sista! :)
Life is too short to continue doing something that becomes tedious! Stamping is supposed to be fun!! You do what makes you happy...because when YOU aren't happy, WE aren't happy!!! Anything you wish to post will be devoured by your adoring fans!
I totally understand. No worries! It's your blog and you can make it whatever you like. Your creativity will shine through no matter what.
Hi, there, Kristina!
It's the most important thing, that You could enjoy all You are doing! If it's not fun anymore, You have to make changes.
We all can surf through the addresses and look eachothers creations. I have wondered, how it is possible to You to pick up the cards to the Round-up, because they all are so lovely.
Your videos are very helpful and You get me lots of inspiration, Thank You!
Bless your little heart, Kristina! I for one just enjoy seeing your beautiful handiwork. Heck, I'd be happy even with just pictures instead of videos! We all enjoy seeing your work, but please do it for yourself and not the rest of us!
I appreciate your honesty and openness and I love coming to your blog to see what you have created. If crafting becomes a chore, then making some changes is only for the good. =) Do what is right for you and enjoy paper crafting because it makes you happy, not because you have to please anyone else. You are really super talented and have inspired me to get back to stamping again. thank you for that.
You mean you want to have a life? Full of fun, creativity, and inspiration? HOW STRANGE, LOL!!! I have appreciated your nice, neat CI round-ups, but it's no big deal to click on links to submissions. Believe me, if I can do it, ANYONE can!
Welcome back to the world of stressfree stamping!
I've often wondered how you do it all! We all love your work, and when you're enjoying yourself, we'll enjoy it too! You are such an inspiration to me, and have changed the way I craft, so I look forward to all your creations to come. C x
I am glad that you were able to reflect on what was draining you and your time. I really don't know how you did it all. Kudos for all your hard work and inspiration.
I'm just happy you are still going to do the color challenges. Hope you get back to enjoying yourself.
ummmm...you feel BAD about having to make some changes, after all that you've given of your FREE time to the crafting world?!?! don't even think about it, girl! do what you need to do so that you don't lose the joy of creativity. you don't OWE anyone ANYTHING! EVERYTHING you provide here SO GENEROUSLY is a gift. do whatever you need to do. no one will think less of you. we may even admire you more for putting boundaries on your life so that it's YOURS again.
I'm glad your finding a way to get the fun back into your blog, I would hate to see your creativity dwindle, you're so talented and I'm just happy that you would take any time to share that with me! Thanks for all the work you do, I really appreciate it and look forward to seeing your creations everytime you post one!!
Oh my, I was wondering how you kept up the pace you have. I love seeing your MACM & Finally Fridays & well any creations you have time to make & Blog & even the new music tunes or new crafting gagets.
The Colour Inspirations are fun, but do what you can do. You should make time to keep yourself healthy & happy & to rest up.
Please know how you are appreciated, but don't run yourself ragged to please others. Sounds like life will still be busy, but hopefully more manageable.
Blessings,
Amy.
Go take care of yourself and have some fun in life - we can figure out how to make a card if we need too. I have wondered about the amount of time that you must be putting into your blog....I know how time consuming my little Demo business is.........Have a great weekend!!
Whew! Thank Goodness! I was beginning to think you were some sort of crafting robot! We crafters all seem to take on a little too much from time to time. It's all good stuff that makes us happy, but you can have TOO much of a good thing. Do what insires you! We all love you, no matter what!
Kristina, I think you're great and your art work is inspiring...that's what I have enjoyed about visiting your site. Quite honestly I never do any of the color challenges - like you, no time! Additionally, I love your youtube videos - this is how I came across your website in the first place. So, take a nice hot bath, and keep doing what you love!
I say 'GOOD FOR YOU'. You need to enjoy what you are doing. I was shocked when you added the FF(Finally Friday)....you appear busy already then to add one more thing !! Well, I'm excited about your announcement bc I'm for seeing more of your fun creations !!!! Good decision.
Have a GREAT weekend !!!
Sandi
Kristina,
I am completely AMAZED at how much you do, and I think we all understand about your being a little exhausted.
Its very hard to create on demand, and does get old quickly. Life is too short - create whatever makes you happy, whenever you feel like doing at and we'll all continue to check in and see your work! I love to see what you create and your personality as well as your projects inspire me :)
Thanks for doing all that you do!
I totally understand. I haven't posted anything on my blog in awhile. All the "work" can take the fun out of the hobby we love. Take time for you and enjoy the love of the craft. :o)
Yay, I'm just so glad you're not leaving us! I'm so glad you've identified some ways to make more time for creativity... it would be a shame if creativity became a slave to blogging. And I have to say, my most disappointing moment at CHA this year was hearing from a friend that I missed meeting you by *thismuch!* Bummer!
Hi Kristina,
I have really enjoyed your blog-and I look forward even more to what you create when the sheer love of it inspires you! I am so glad you are human-many a time I wondered how you did it-especially when your job involves working on computers also. Life is there to be enjoyed, and hobby's are meant to be for our relaxation...
Cheerio,
Evonne Y.
Kristina, I'm so happy for you and proud of you for taking your time back! I became a fan a couple years ago on SCS and here on your blog, before the CI challenges, and loved to just come and see what you'd made. I'm looking forward to that creative goodness coming again!! (Don't get me wrong, I *love* the CI challenges, and will keep playing as long as you post them, but I had noticed that the only cards you were making were the ones you 'had' to do!)
Kudos to you, sweetie!! Enjoy your play time! ;)
Hi Kristina,
No apologies are necessary. Crafting should be completely fun...when it becomes overwhelming, you should do just what you did...re-evaluate! I am glad that you are going to make some changes that you can live with. We love your blog, but also respect you as the busy person that you are and we all need a little break every now and then!
Hey Kristina,
thank you so much for your honest words. I am a very big admirer of your work & design, I look up your blog daily. Of course I will miss the round-ups and all the entries you made. But I totally understand your thoughts and I think you can only grow by taking your feelings seriously. So I would like to thank you for all the work you do to keep us happy. But in order to keep us happy we need you to be happy! I will still be checking on your blog every day, you're great! I mean that. Hugs from Germany - Nina
hey girlie - you gotta do what's right for you! i would never hold that against you :) love your creations, and hope to keep seeing them!
All the work that you have done with the CI has always been appreciated! Thank you!
Blogging and creating should be fun - so I wish you all the fun in the world - And as always, can't wait to see your beautiful work!
Take care!
Sankari :)
I appreciate everything you share. I always wondered how you did it all. Sometimes you need to stop and think about you. What about you? That's okay. Don't aplogize becuase if you don't worry about you then you may get lost and that would be a tragedy. Have two changes people can deal with, having you lost; people would be devisted. I'm glad you are taking time to refocus. Thanks for all you do! Enjoy your weekend.
Kristina,
Thank you for everything that you share with the stamping community. You give so generously, asking nothing in return. As a result, what can we do for you? We can understand that it's become too much and you have to have some boundaries. It really saddens me when something people love to do and enjoy becomes a huge chore and a burden. It is not meant to be that way. So, rather than disappearing, cut back. Cut back to one video a week, we will live! The bottom line is that you are doing too much and it's not good for you. Thank you for sharing your heart and being so honest. I respect you for it very much. I wish you only the best, now and always.
Bravo!!! I was wondering when you would do this. I love everything you do and like everyone else, do not want to see you burn out!!!
Can't wait to see what a little 'technical rest' does for you!!!
Sandra
I totally understand. and will be lovely to see your creations in your blog.
Lila
I think you should do just what you enjoy doing. Cut the videos if it's too much, do what makes you comfortable. Everyone will understand. It's just fun to read your Twitter updates and see the cards you've made. Take a photo of them and post them .. that's more than enough.. forget the complicated stuff!
Kristina, your blog is fabulous and I'm really happy that you'll be sharing more of your wonderful work. Your colour inspo is a wonderful jumping off point for all of us and it certainly shouldn't be a burden for you. It's difficult to make changes, but you need to do what makes you happy...stamping of course! :)
Thanks for all you do and all you share. I truly appreciate your inspiration.
Hi Kristina,
Your Color Challenges ARE the reason I started a paper crafting blog about 10 months ago (I had been blogging about my little one for a few years before that). I've never missed one of your challenges...I know...it's a sickness! Call a paper-crafting interventionist ASAP!
My in-laws arrived today and we are having a family get-together tomorrow. I'm trying to figure out if I can make something in time so I don't miss your deadline tomorrow....see what I mean?
We love your challenges, but you can do them less often too...we'll survive. Mr. Linky makes it easy to look at other cards. Give a shorter deadline for your challenges too...I don't know if that helps you. Your blog must get thousands of hits per day, because just getting featured on your roundup would generate hundreds of hits within hours...my goodness. Thanks for doing them for as many times as you did!
I'm trying to get more creative time myself. Creating just for the fun of it.
Good for you Kristina---you aren't here to serve us--thanks for the info!!
Do what's best for you and I'm sure when you are happy and being creative all of your viewers will still be here happy for you. :)
Hope you have a wonderful weekend being creative...
Thanks for the update Kristina. I am really glad to hear about the changes for you and for the blog. For as much time and effort you put into the roundup, I did not enjoy it as much as seeing all your creations. That is what originally drew me to your blog in the first place. Take care and happy creating.
You have worked so hard and your creations inspire us! If you have too much on your plate no one can complain and if they do, stick your tongue out at them and say "YOU do it then!" hehe.
Thank you for all you do!
Kristina,
I've been a BIG fan of yours for over a year now. I LOVE your stuff that you create. I'd way rather see you create fun stuff than have you spend all your time editing. I get inspiration from your designs, your cards and your sense of style, not the way the pics look on your blog. THANK YOU for even having a blog!!!! I don't have one because I don't want to make that committment. But I love to see what others are doing and you are definitely one of THE BEST!!! Thanks for sharing your creativity, your life and little bits of your self!
An adoring fan.....
Yep Kris, you can only do so much.
Hope all your changes give you more energy and enthusiasm :) And don't forget it's all about fun, alright? ;)
x
Oh Kristina....thank you for this post. It seems that you and I are not alone in that this blogging thing has become more of a job to some of us. While I love blogging I have also lost the energy to post something everyday as well as create videos. I need to get back to what I love and that is simply creating and sharing what I love without the pressures of timelines and such that to my own dismay put upon myself. Thanks for speaking out...now I don't feel like I am the only one. Shew! NO matter what you post, I will always come back for inspiration.
Hugs
Hi Kristina,
Love the blog (of course!) and finally decided to stop lurking and submit something to this month's color challenge. Honestly, I don't know how you keep the blog up on top of all the incredible design work you do. (Super Woman!)
Hugs,
Kim
I am all for being balanced and you do what you need to do to feel balanced! I will still be here! :) Now that I think about it has been awhile since you have posted something that you have created just because....I want to see more of that!!! Ilove you style!!!!
I've often wondered how you do it all. You have the best blog, and so much info and help. You're work is inspiring especially in the simplicity of some of your designs. I think we've all learned that something simple can be just as nice as something more complicated. By using better workmanship and taking your advice on techniques and your design knowledge we've all gained better skills (that's right we got skills). Anyways I'm trying to say your site is a mainstay in checking the blogs.I have a chronic pain condition, not always in the mood to do crafts. So your blog is like therapy and motivation to get up and create. Sooooooo take it easy on your self, do what you can to maintain your love of creating and we'll be here waiting for you when you need us. take care of yourself first. YOU ARE AWESOME . love Bonnie.
Oh YEAH it's a good thing!! We all come here for your art!!! Anything that gets in the way of that or takes the fun out of it needs to GO.
Bravo chickie - computers can suck the life out of you.
Thanks for sharing all your great stuff with us. You keep your mojo and lose the rest! :)
Plus - you've started a Mr. Linky revolution, so I think your work is done! :)
Take care. Have some Takashi with all your extra time! :D
Thank you for being so super inspirational and kind. I'll be visiting everyday like I always have~ Can't wait for your new project! Have fun making something for fun~
I thoroughly enjoy your blog and your MACM videos as well as looking at the color inspiration challenges but I have always wondered how in the world you find time to put together the little photo snippets to share! So, don't worry....speaking only for myself I can tell you that I don't really mind if they are there or not however I would far rather see some of the fun stuff you create and most especially I would hate to see all the fun of it evaporate for you. I am not nearly as prolific as you in posting and ended up taking a break from posting photos for almost 2 months over the holidays. I've only recently gotten back into sharing pics of projects and can't imagine spending as much time on the blogging as you do.
Jan Hoyt
www.inkerzaway.blogspot.com
Whatever you need to do to keep blogging is good with me! I loved your blog long before you started your challenges and while i love the challenges I would hate to see them be the reason you have to stop altogether :D
All I have to say is do whatever you need to do to keep your sanity (and to make blogging fun for you again!). I've been using Wordpress for several years on my own domain now that switching would be a nightmare. I sympathize with what you're going through. I hope it'll work out! :)
i think you DESERVE it!!!
go on and do what you need to find joy on creating your own things.
I LOVE your blog, and it really serves me as an inspiration EVERY time, not only on my craft creations but on how to organise my blog also!
As I can see you are a very nice person is only fair that you can enjoy being here as much as we do! its your place!
well... really wanted you to know that i think this is correct and i support it!
kisses
Hi Kristina:
You should not make excuses for wanting to take time for yourself. I certainly enjoy your blog but I understand how time consuming it can be. Take the time to enjoy your talent. Thanks for sharing so much with us. Take care of yourself.
I personally miss the old videos with the music etc. You introduced something new each time which I'm sure you don't have time for now. I'm sure what ever you do will be great. Take time to smell the roses and enjoy.
Change is good. What ever you give us, we will take. But all means, enjoy your life.
Change is good. Not change is not live...
WP is a piece of cake, you will see ;)
I know the feeling! The pleasure of creating something just for the fun of it...I haven't experienced that in a while too. Just wanted to say "Good Luck" and hope you can find some time for yourself.
First of all, I love what you've done here.
Second, I've been amazed that you could do what you've done for as long as you've done it! I have a blog that's about 9 months old, and I could never keep up the pace you've kept.
Third, thank you for all that you do and for providing all of us with valuable examples and good lessons through your experience.
Last of all, thank you for respecting us enough to share your thoughts about changing the blog, etc. Maybe someday you'll be able to just give the links for the ones you think are the top 10 each week. Or not. I'm just grateful for the opportunity to get cool color combos and see other artists' work!
Keep on rockin', Kristina!
Hi Kristina,
Thanks for all your work. Just a question, why did you choose WP over typepad? I'm thinking of having my own blog and not sure which one to use.
Thanks
Kristina,
I greatly admire your artistic ability. That's why I check in to your blog. I would be happy to just see your work and not eveyone elses. A happy mind is more creative, so stay happy.