Saturday, July 30, 2011

Summer Update

Hello, crafty friends!  Monique here.  Sorry it’s been so long since we’ve posted on the blog.  The summer started off with a bit of a health scare for me, which thankfully turned out to be fine.  But I also figured out that it was imperative for me to take some time off immediately for my mental and physical well-being, and work on finding a healthier balance in my life.  So I have been spending lots of time with my little girl, hubby, and the rest of my family and friends, relaxing and traveling, and exercising a lot.  (I’m even training to do a triathlon in October.  Crazy, but fun!)  It’s been a really incredible summer, and it took that little health scare to shake me up and realize that I need to be spending the bulk of my time a bit differently.

Jared, Emily and me with Goofy at Disneyland in June.  What a great family trip this was with the 3 of us, and now I can't wait to go again!  It was so much fun to feel like a little kid.


Now what?  Well, now that you know I haven’t actually fallen off the face of the planet, I think you also may be pleased to know that the design team and I have been busy the past month.  We each have a layout kit to release very, very soon.  We’ll start it off in the next few days with Susan’s “Cruisin” layout, which uses the Nifty Fifties cart.  Then Becca will introduce her adorable “Go Wild” layout, using the Create-a-Critter cart.  Next up will be my new farm-themed layout “The Simple Life”, which uses the Country Life cart.  And finally, Wendy will make a splash with her “Pack Your Bags” layout, using the Pack Your Bags cart, of course! 

We won’t be posting daily as we were previously doing, but we’ll at least try to post a couple of fun things each week, and a giveaway now and then too.  Whatever we can do while still maintaining some healthy life balance!

Thank you so much for all of your patience and understanding, and to those of you who dropped me an email to check on me.  Things are going much better now!!  I’d love to hear from you all.  Leave me a comment and let me know what you’ve been up to this summer – or if you still have some exciting plans before school starts up again.
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59 comments:

  1. Scrapper69July 31, 2011 at 1:23 AM

    I'm so glad everything is going ok with you.... I was wondering what happened... So glad your enjoy time with family and friends... I think we all forget how busy taking care of a blog can be and making LO packs and just all kinds of things that we forget the people who mean the most... SO glad you found your balance... :o) Looking forward to seeing what you lovely ladies have created too! :o)
    Theresa

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  2. Raquel SKJuly 31, 2011 at 4:48 AM

    It's good to know you're doing well, every so often your name "pops" up on my mental prayer list and I ask God to keep strengthening you. Your health and family are far more important than us blogger peeps, so it's great you're enjoying your time where it really counts. I know I'll enjoy everything your team makes, as everything is always so nicely done.-Raquel

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  3. char52July 31, 2011 at 7:18 AM

    So glad that all is well. Hard to find the right balance in life. Hopefully you have now.

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  4. Kat S.July 31, 2011 at 7:48 AM

    So glad to hear you are doing well, I was worried. I love your stuff. I have been lifting you up in prayer. Hope you've found your blance :)

    Sawkat66@yahoo.com -- a follower.

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  5. Grammy GGJuly 31, 2011 at 7:53 AM

    Was so happy and excited to see your blog and know you are well and feeling better in all ways. Looking forward to you and your teams new releases but more importantly to a healthy, happy, Monique. You have been in the prayers of many. As always your Oregon friend.

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  6. Grammy GGJuly 31, 2011 at 7:53 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  7. Susan LJuly 31, 2011 at 8:29 AM

    That picture brings me happy memories of my time in Disney :) That is my favorite place next to Hawaii. So glad to read that all worked out for you and that you are on the road to a better you. Having had my own health issues, I can relate. Sometimes we are made to slow down for a reason. I know my family is enjoying it immensely. Now to recuperate and find gainful employment again so I can afford crafty stuff.

    Looking forward to seeing all the wonderful creations. :)

    Happy Scrappin'

    Sue B
    http://susanascorner.blogspot.com/

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  8. KathleenJuly 31, 2011 at 9:07 AM

    Hi there - I was worried about you too, Monique, but figured "no news is good news" as they say. I kept checking your blog to see if anything was posted. Glad you are enjoying the summer with your family and friends, especially that cutie patootie, Emily. Their childhood goes by so fast - my "little" boy will be 12 in another month and is now officially taller than me at 5'4". He was my height only a month ago (5'1-1/2"), so he really is "growing up" right before our eyes. I am always thinking of you and praying for you. You look so fabulous in that pic of the family with Goofy. (he's my favorite, by the way!!)

    So glad you are feeling healthy in mind, body and spirit. Good for you for training - just don't push too hard. Everything in moderation as they say. Looking forward to seeing all the new kits you and your team have been working on.

    As always, Rock On, my friend, Rock On!

    Kathleen in NJ
    kmurphy614@gmail.com

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  9. Sheila aka SassyLadyJuly 31, 2011 at 10:07 AM

    I am happy to hear you are doing well. You are right we do need to keep that balance in our life and bloggin although fun is not at the top of the list... God and family is. You just take care of your self and know we will be by to support you when you need us.
    I look back and am amazed that I met you in March and at the time never connected you and this blog together.... I know shame on me! I probably would have hugged you if only I had realized at the time exactly who you were. I wish you the best and can't wait to see what you and your talented team come up with.
    Hugs
    Sheila

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  10. Kim.July 31, 2011 at 11:03 AM

    Aw Monique I had wondered why I hadn't seen any posts I just thought you had decided to take summer out but I am really glad that the health scare is over and that you are enjoying life to the full.
    I look forward to whatever you all bring to encourage me to use that Cricut on mine lol.
    Kim xXx

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  11. UnknownJuly 31, 2011 at 11:06 AM

    yay your back missed your bloggin.cant wait to see what you have done.so glad you are enjoyin your family you should definatly be doin that as much as you can.i cherish every moment with mine.it is precious fun and healthy

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  12. Sandy from UkiahJuly 31, 2011 at 11:58 AM

    I love the family picture with Goofy... and so glad you are having a fun summer. (I am hoping that Wendy had marked me down as paid for your new Simple life layout. I paid her at Bugs night. hugs from ukiah

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  13. kimJuly 31, 2011 at 1:37 PM

    I was so worried about you. I didn't want to bother you with a lot of emails if you were sick. I am so happy to hear that you are okay. I have really missed you.

    kim
    k1i2m3@cox.net

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  14. scrapguyJuly 31, 2011 at 1:49 PM

    I am just glad you are doing well and are happy! That time with your family is priceless as you know! Your talent is amazing and no matter when or how much you share--it is always GREAT!!!! Be well!
    Bryan (scrapguy)

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  15. Glue Meets PaperJuly 31, 2011 at 5:47 PM

    I was wondering where you were Monique! Glad to hear all is well and you've recharged your batteries :) If you are ever in need of a Guest Designer again keep me in mind ;)

    -Cassie

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  16. UnknownJuly 31, 2011 at 6:00 PM

    nice to have you back. can't wait for all the new stuff but definitely, health and family are NO. 1.

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  17. liz at liz's paper loftJuly 31, 2011 at 6:22 PM

    I'm so glad that you are doing well and enjoying your family!

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  18. UnknownJuly 31, 2011 at 7:54 PM

    Awesome Monique, there's nothing better in the world than spending time with loved ones...enjoy them!!!
    Happy to hear again from you, we missed you in blogworld :)

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  19. DonnaJuly 31, 2011 at 10:03 PM

    Great news, Monique! You look great, too! Lost some weight? You look toned and very healthy! Good for you for prioritizing your life and putting family first!

    Many blessings,
    Donna
    grandma4five

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  20. Dana Paper Memories4uJuly 31, 2011 at 10:40 PM

    So glad to hear things are ok. I kept checking the blog and figured your family had a busy summer as well as ours. I'm sorry to hear you had a health scare. After what you've been thru you don't need any more of those. Although I do think the Lord uses them from time to time to keep us on track and remind us of our priorities. We'll take you posting once a week or once a month. Please always keep your DD and DH as the most important responsibilities in life. :)) We'll continue to pray for good health reports and for all of us to keep our priorities in order. :)

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  21. AnonymousJuly 31, 2011 at 11:12 PM

    Glad you're still doing great, but you are a super duper survivor...JazzyJan

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  22. CarolJuly 31, 2011 at 11:30 PM

    It's wonderful to hear from you again. It's great to know that all is well. I am glad your that your little "scare" turned out to be nothing more than a "wake up call", which we all need once in a while to remind us to maintain our focus and keep the special needs in our life in perspective. It sounds like you and family are spending a fun and joyous summer together. I can't help but think of the special memories you are capturing that you will later put to paper in your creative way. Continued good health and happy smiles to your and your family.

    Hugz,
    ♥Carol♥

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  23. KimJuly 31, 2011 at 11:59 PM

    It nice to see you back and I hope that you have enjoyed the time that you have spent with your family. I was a little worried since we haven't heard from you in a while, but God is good! I am looking forward to seeing the new projects that your team has been working on.

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  24. dgroovyAugust 1, 2011 at 4:27 AM

    Glad to hear you are doing well,Life is crazy sometimes.I am a mother of three,my children are all on their own with their families now, and I still feel over whelmed. So glad you got balance. God bless you and your family. I share your blog with alot of people, you are so talented.

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  25. BetsyAugust 1, 2011 at 4:59 AM

    So glad you're OK and that you're back!!! I kept checking your blog for a new entry, and was concerned when there wasn't one. I finally emailed Joy to ask if she knew if you were OK, and she said you were. Said you just needed to step back and prioritize.
    Glad you're finding a balance between work and family!!! Stay strong, and have fun!

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  26. maryvernauAugust 1, 2011 at 6:06 AM

    Welcome back! So glad you are doing well and enjoying your summer. Can't wait to see what you are creating!

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  27. NorthwoodszooAugust 1, 2011 at 6:47 AM

    Welcome back! So glad things are better, and that you've made the very healthy decision to take stock and do what's important. Blessings.

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  28. BeverlyAugust 1, 2011 at 6:49 AM

    So glad to hear from you and to learn that all is well - I too was concerned about you. Altho I've missed your blog, I agree completely that family and health come first, so it is great to hear that you've made that decision and followed it! I strongly support you with my thoughts and my prayers!

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  29. jordanbev5@yahoo.comAugust 1, 2011 at 7:08 AM

    I am so glad everything is gong so well for you!! Enjoy your vacations and training time!! I personally am on vacation in New Orleans with adult children! Wow, time flies, so enjoy it while you can!! All my love to you and your family!

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  30. Debbie JAugust 1, 2011 at 7:22 AM

    Glad to hear all is well with you. There comes a time in everyone's life where we have to step back and look at what is really important to us mentally and physically. I quit my job (yes you read that right!)because I was at the point of not having a balance between the 40 hours I worked and my home. I was too tired to enjoy my hubby and my crafts and everything was suffering. Now I am semi-retired and enjoying it so far.

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  31. VickieAugust 1, 2011 at 7:57 AM

    Glad to hear that you are well and having fun. I look forward to seeing all the new stuff that the DT has for us. Take care & God bless.

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  32. AnonymousAugust 1, 2011 at 8:03 AM

    So glad you are doing okay. Looking forward to your posts and projects.
    Ruth
    irlundsten@aol.com

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  33. MimiKatAugust 1, 2011 at 9:05 AM

    I too was wondering where you had gone and I'm thankful your health scare was only a scare.
    I know exactly what you mean, trying to find a balance mentally and physically in life, to stop and smell the roses as they say; remember what is truly important in life.

    Glad you've discovered and are back.

    Kat
    cricutcardcreating.blogspot.com

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  34. Just A Pac RatAugust 1, 2011 at 9:10 AM

    Glad to hear you are okay. I have missed seeing your great projects, but I understand too as I have stepped back a little myself. I think two great blog entries a week, is better then several not so great. So way to go on that thinking. Look forward to the next one.

    circlebenterprises.blogspot.com

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  35. pameladixonAugust 1, 2011 at 9:14 AM

    We all need that work life balance and glad you were able to find it. I have been keeping track on your blog and you have been in my thoughts and prayers. Can't wait to see what the team as come up with, always have loved your LO.

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  36. cal8007August 1, 2011 at 10:28 AM

    Good for you Monique!! I did the same thing with my facebook account. I deleted it and I feel much better!

    Glad you are enjoying your summer.

    Hugs,

    Carmen L

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  37. LindaAugust 1, 2011 at 11:18 AM

    Glad you're back and feeling better! you've been missed. Can't wait to see the new layouts later this week.

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  38. Debs4youAugust 1, 2011 at 1:21 PM

    so glad you've been practicing balance all summer! Keep it up!

    Looking forward to seeing the new kits!

    Deb

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  39. Sandra JoyAugust 1, 2011 at 2:06 PM

    Monique you certainly have been missed! We were all worried and our thoughts and prayers were with you and your family. Your health comes first. After all, you have a beautiful family who loves and needs you. Sending you giant bear hugs!

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  40. Amy VandiverAugust 1, 2011 at 2:12 PM

    So glad to hear from you!! Was wondering what happened with the blog but I figured you were taking a much needed summer break and would be back in the fall! I am looking forward to seeing your new layouts coming out! We have had a pretty laid back summer except we just got back from a family vacation in California. Aside from the drive it was a blast and the kids enjoyed meeting family and going to the beach. We also took them to Disneyland for the first time and they loved it! Glad to hear you are doing well!!

    Amy V

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  41. spricetpAugust 1, 2011 at 4:20 PM

    I follow your blog and have been concerned about your absence. So glad to hear from you and know things are well. Enjoy your life and your family:)

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  42. CathyinMNAugust 1, 2011 at 5:58 PM

    I was worried about you, so I'm so glad to hear everything is okay. Of course it's important to spend good, quality time with your family -- they are the most important thing. I'm glad you're back, though, because I miss seeing the awesome projects you and your team create and share with us.

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  43. AngelaAugust 1, 2011 at 7:22 PM

    This is the best update ever!

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  44. SukieAugust 1, 2011 at 8:07 PM

    So glad to hear all is well with you and your family! You look great in that picture and what a fun trip. Can't wait to see your teams creations, I have really missed all of the inspiration you all provide me. Enjoy your time with your family!

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  45. BrendaAugust 2, 2011 at 5:36 AM

    So happy that you have found that balance!! Family and friends are everything as well as your health! So even though we have missed you, we totally understand the need to find that balance. I am looking forward to the new posts and I think that a couple times a week is perfect!!! My hubby and I are getting away for the first time in over 21 years. We have 6 boys so time alone wasn't doable and I just couldn't get away without our boys. All are grown but one and he is going away with his aunt and uncle so my hubby decided it was time for us to get away!! I'm so excited, but we also have a new grandbaby coming as well!!! Our 5th one and this one is the first boy. So if baby comes first we will go there, then on our little trip. Cause you know that grammy and papaw need to see the baby first! LOL Have a wonderful summer and good for you on finding a balance to your life, getting your health back on track and enjoying your business!!!! Hugs!

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  46. DeeAugust 2, 2011 at 8:37 AM

    I am so glad to hear that you are ok. I kept checking to make sure I had the right URL and thought every day about sending you an e-mail asking where you had gone. Family and yourself are the most important things. Keeping that balance is a tricky thing and I am glad to hear that you have found ways to spend more time. We never have enough. Looking forward to the new designs. Take care of yourself!!!!

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  47. TrudiAugust 2, 2011 at 9:04 AM

    Glad you're back and taking time for family & Disney.
    Missed you and all the fun you create.
    Looking forward to new fun and LO's.

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  48. Toni MacielAugust 2, 2011 at 9:30 AM

    I am so happy to know you are doing well!! I hope you will enjoy the rest of your summer. Toni

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  49. AnonymousAugust 2, 2011 at 3:22 PM

    Hi Monique. I was concerned when you hadn't posted for a while and prayed that you were well. Your family and your health are the most important things. We enjoy your posts, but not to the extent of harming your health. Twice and week is more than plenty. Enjoy life and we look forward to your posts. Sylvia in AZ

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  50. AnonymousAugust 3, 2011 at 3:46 PM

    I'm so glad to hear that things are well and you are taking a healthy and balanced approach to life. It's so important to have that quality family time and "me" time. I don't post much, but I do follow your blog often and wondered if everything was ok. I'm relieved. I love your work and learn a lot. My exciting project coming up will be a completed scrapbook that I will be donating as an auction item at an upcoming Sacramento Make-a-Wish foundation event. I'm very excited to get started on this project so I thought I would share. Can't wait to see the newest projects!
    Jolene

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  51. MotherMonkeeAugust 3, 2011 at 8:25 PM

    Glad you are well, and continue to d better. So glad your are back!

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  52. Kristie MaynardAugust 5, 2011 at 3:15 PM

    So glad to see a post from you and know that you are doing well. Great pic from Disney! I'll keep checking back to see what's up with you and the DT.
    Seems like I've been busy all summer, but doesn't feel like I've gotten much done. My kids are older, so they are at work every day and are off on the run with friends a lot of their time off. Gives me plenty of time to do what I like and relax, do some scrapbooking and other paper crafting.

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  53. AnonymousAugust 5, 2011 at 8:41 PM

    Hi Monique, so glad everything is okay. You look GREAT ! Miss ya and all the gang. Been busy with the family. Need some new kits and instructions to get busy with more pages. Will be ordering when your new kits come out. Tell everyone "HI" for me, especially Emily... Miss working with her at your events. Take it easy and have a wonderful summer.
    noradickey@hotmail.com

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  54. GramjakAugust 6, 2011 at 10:39 AM

    So happy to hear that your're doing well! I would like to ORDER one of Susan's Nifty Fifth "Cruisin'" Layouts!

    When will they be ready?

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  55. MaquelAugust 6, 2011 at 3:20 PM

    Glad to hear it was just a health 'scare'....and glad you have been able to take time off and spend it with your family. That is oh so important! We have missed you, though, Monique, and are glad you are back! :)

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  56. Java Jen's CreationsAugust 7, 2011 at 9:35 PM

    Yay for you taking time off!! Enjoy your precious family! You continue to be in my prayers! By the way, you look great in your family picture!! Take care and may God Bless you!!

    Java Jen

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  57. gshraderAugust 12, 2011 at 4:54 AM

    Glad things are going good for you this summer! Have definitely missed all of your great creations! Hope you are having a nice relaxing time with your family!

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  58. DianneAugust 17, 2011 at 7:45 AM

    Wondering what happened to you. Didn't see anything on Rainbow Bridge and was hoping all is well. Glad to see you are doing well, but take your time and do not wear yourself out. We all love you to much.
    Dianne Bell - Sewpro02@Aol.com

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  59. LynSeptember 9, 2011 at 12:02 PM

    Hi, Monique,
    Glad to read your health scare was not a bad one. Any are scarry, however. Love your picture from Disney. You look great. Are you still doing WW? It sure looks like it. Lynda

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