I've Fallen. I Did Get Up. I'm Tired.

I love Stampin' Up!  I've been accused of being a Stampin' Up! snob.  I will wear that badge proudly.  I love everything about Stampin' Up!  I love the excitement of a new catalog with new products that are just waiting for ideas.  Those ideas become creations that bring joy to others and to me.  I love the feel of the cardstock, the beauty of the paper, ink on my hands, and that feeling I get when I design a card that's just right.  I love ribbons, and sequins, rhinestones, trinkets, and tying bows.  I love being a part of a team and having my own team.  I love sharing and knowing people from across the US and in other countries.  In other words, I love it all!  I will be a demonstrator for as far in the future as I can imagine.  I stamp every day.  Yes, I am passionate.  Some would call it obsessed.

And therein is my problem.  As this year, and decade, come to end, it's a time for reflection.  I work hard at my Stampin' Up! business.  I spend, I'm sure, well over 40 hours a week.  I am retired so I guess I have the time.  But my business has taken over my life.  I don't have time for family and friends.  I'm always telling my husband I don't have time to do this and that.  I'm not invited out with friends that much any more.  Most of all, after all the time and effort and work, I am not successful.  My sales suck.  I think I need to face that fact that I really am not offering anything that would warrant any support or loyalty from my readers.  I am not able to offer free gifts and special enticements and I guess that's what really matters.

2.16.2020  I FEEL I SHOULD DELETE THE PARAGRAPH ABOVE BUT THEY WERE TRUE FEELINGS.  I WOULD LIKE TO APOLOGIZE TO MY CUSTOMERS.  I DO CHERISH YOUR SUPPORT.  THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN ME.

I fell last week.  I tripped over my shoes and I went down hard.  I dislocated my right shoulder.  Two days later, the shoulder went out again.  I go to the orthopedic doctor today, but I think therapy is in my future.

For these reasons, I am taking some time off.  As a demo, this is probably the worst time, but it is what it is.  I will not post on my blog the rest of December.  I'm not sure right now about January.  As I said, it's a time for reflection.  They say consistency is key.  I've posted at least 4 days a week consistently for years.  I post at least 4 new projects every week with complete instructions.  I consistently send a pretty great newsletter every Tuesday.  What can I say?

Thanks for reading and hopefully understanding my frustration over being hurt (shoulder) and my business.  I'm tired.  I thank those who have taken the time to comment on my posts.  I will be back.

Comments

[Dorsy Lewis]

So sorry about your fall. I have enjoyed your blog and love your cards as I have been following you for quite a while. Take the time you need to decide how you want to move forward. Please know that I will be thinking of you and praying for your recovery.
Hope you have a blessed Christmas.
Dorsy

[Deb Chapman]

Sorry to hear about your fall. Let me know if you need anything.
By the way, I have started going back to church. Missed this past Sunday because I have a nasty cold, but will be back on Sunday for the Cantata.
Deb Chapman

[Bernie Forlenzo]

I started following and ordering from you because I LOVE your work! And it sounds like my story -- started SU and continued for 10 years after retirement, loved it, loved giving classes, the fun, the friends, the conventions, making videos, the downline, everything! Then my hubby had a knee replacement surgery that took me months away from my favorite job. At which time I took some time for reflection and decided SU had taken over my life too and I needed time with family. I still love SU (and a snob also) and I still love to create but not as intensely. Good luck on your recovery and your time of reflection whatever you decide to do. Bernie

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Dorsey, Thanks so much for the kind words. I'm so glad you have enjoyed my cards. Thanks for the prayers, too.
Jo Anne

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Thanks, Deb. I appreciate the prayers. It is so good to hear from you.
Jo Anne

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Bernie, thanks so much for sharing. It's so good to know someone understands. I appreciate your business more than you know. Thanks so much for letting me know you like my work. I do love making cards!

[Christy Frank]

Sorry to hear about your shoulder Jo Anne. I understand your reasons for taking a break. But I will miss seeing your posts and the pretty cards you make. Sending prayers for healing and insight as you contemplate where your journey will go.

[Cindy Rose]

I’m sorry you are feeling so down. It is not fun to be out of commission over the holidays.
I want you to know that I admire you and am so thankful for all that you do for your team. I’ve learned so much from you. In my eyes you are a success. I think it all depends on how you define success. Thinking of you and wishing you and John a very Merry Christmas.

[Charlie Eubank]

I know firsthand how debilitating personal injury and care of another can be. I will be praying for a positive diagnosis and a quick and complete recovery. Be sure to accept the help of others during this time. It will be a blessing to both of you.

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Thanks Cindy. I am a very fortunate person. I know that. When I talked about success I was referring to sales. SU has been a blessing in so many ways. My team and friendships are the most important. Merry Christmas!

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Thanks so much, Charlie. It's hard for me to ask for help, but I need to learn. Merry Christmas!

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Thanks Christy. I hope your family has a Merry Christmas!
Jo Anne

[Emalie Barnes]

Jo Anne, you are a success to many of us who have learned from you, spent time in your home making cards and learning new techniques, and so much more! I am so sorry about your fall and the resulting injuries. I understand your need for
reflection and cutting back in different areas, but you must know how much you will be missed, especially your blog and the cards you make. I appreciate all your help and you have been so prompt in sending me the catalogs. Prayers for healing, continued recovery and especially Rest.
Merry Christmas to you and John and all your family, then Happy New Year!
Fondly,
Emalie Barnes

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Emalie, you are too kind. Thanks so much for the encouraging words. You really have made my day! Thanks also for your support during the years and your friendship.
Jo Anne

[Carol C]

So sorry to hear about your fall. I look at your blog regularly and love your creativity and sharing. Wishing you a quick and uneventful recovery.

[Jo Anne Hewins]

Carol, thank you. I appreciate the kind words. It's so nice to know someone likes your work.