2014: A Year of...
On the first of the year, I tend to get a bit philosophical and extra wordy. Forgive me. There is some important stuff I want to tell you, and my most honest self is just not concise. Thanks for your patience.
In 2013, I shared fifty Glitter Girl videos, thirty-five Sketch to Scrapbook Page videos, and put together a monthly list of product picks – which I was quicker to use and share some months more than others. For those interested in premium content, I also debuted a brand new self-paced workshop, Glitter Girl’s Scrapbooking Survival Guide, and a companion video workshop, Glitter Girl’s Guide to Stretching your Stash, both available at Two Peas in a Bucket. Here at shimelle.com, I ran a reprise of two popular layout design classes, Pretty Paper Party and Scrapbook Remix, and two annual favourites, Learn Something New Every Day and Journal your Christmas. I flew to California for CHA in the winter and travelled to Germany and Italy to teach in person. The funny thing is that all that fits into my designated year of quiet.
Over the past year, there have been many guests sharing their work here. I know some of you are not huge fans of that, and that’s okay. 2013 needed to be my year of quiet. 2012 was a big year here. A lot of excitement. A lot of growth. And the truth is it was not a level of growth that could be maintained by one scrapbooker. It couldn’t even be maintained by one scrapbooker and her (albeit awesome) part-time assistant. I knew that a year ago. Well, more than a year ago. I knew 2013 would not be about growth for me. It would be about giving back, and it would be about welcoming a bit of quiet. If 2012 was a year-long Olympic-sized party, 2013 was my year in an ashram.
In last year’s philosophical post, I talked about how I wanted to be able to recognise designers doing fabulous work in this craft and pay them for their contributions. I know that is really not a concern to anyone who is happy to craft for fun, for a hobby, and not worried about trying to make a living from their work. But having worked in this industry for many years, it was important to me. I do think there are too many occasions when talented crafters are given the opportunity to be ‘honoured’ to share their work and the compensation for all the hours they spend creating things is usually the supplies themselves. That doesn’t keep the lights on, much as I would like to pay my electric bill in the remaining patterned papers from last season. Prior to that post, I had made a personal decision to not take work that paid in paper, because I felt if this was my full-time job, I needed to take things seriously, so I stepped away from the positions that took so many hours without pay, for there was no benefit coming from it – I couldn’t be convinced that a layout on a blog, on a sales booth, or in a book was going to bring crowds of people here to my blog for the first time ever. A lovely compliment to my work to be asked, certainly, but the reward was stress of deadlines and late nights and ridiculous international Fed Ex bills. When I took that stance for myself, my contributing opportunities dropped dramatically. That was okay, but it meant I was really concerned that the commentary I saw in bits and pieces over the internet that the ‘same designers appeared in so many places’ or that surely there must be some up and coming unknown talent hiding somewhere was really part of this predicament: there are many talented scrapbookers out there, but there are few with lifestyles that allow for countless hours of work with no pay. I couldn’t employ them all as a regular design gig, but I could make a step in the right direction. I could give back. And I am delighted that I was able to commission so many different scrapbookers to share their work here with you over the past year. That was my goal there and it didn’t fizzle out. At the start of a new year, that makes me ridiculously happy.
But I know many of you have wished there was more of ‘me’ on the blog. Sometimes I have too. At first, I made a big effort to try to match the contributed content with my own posts, and soon I knew I had fallen into a hole. Blogging is a very different writing process than writing a book or writing for one’s self or even the way I write my content for classes (be that online or in my days of teaching teenagers). Blogging is so quick and instant – write it, publish it, move on. The revision process is often more like proofreading than redrafting. Readers know that blogging is quick, so readers make requests, and that is sensible and fair. ‘I bought this product and I don’t know how to use it’ is a common request that comes my way lately and I started trying to reply to all sorts of things like that by writing about them on the blog. That sort of technical explanation of craft is easy and quick and that makes a blog a great place for it. Except I was forgetting why I write. I had lost the sort of in-depth I needed to retreat to the mental ashram (or as it’s Sherlock Day, perhaps I should opt for ‘mind palace’) and rediscover my own voice.
Since the spring, I have been writing for myself. I have written reams and reams. When I started, it was all entirely rubbish. Be glad I didn’t share it on the blog. If you think the long rambling posts I write on message boards are long and rambling (or indeed this post), you have no idea how horribly disconnected from reality that writing was. But I would return to it and look at it without the pressure of sharing it with the world. I could spot what wasn’t working rather than just publishing it and moving on to the next topic. Day by day and week by week, I found what I was missing and I got back to a point where I could write things I felt worth sharing. I just didn’t want to start putting it all out there until I was ready to step outside the ashram. I really wasn’t ready to do that until about three weeks ago. I decided to wait until the new year just to be extra sure.
I have never stopped loving scrapbooking. It still makes me want to get out of bed in the morning (or more accurately, makes me want to stay up all night) and I honestly don’t mind if someone doesn’t like the visual style of my pages or disagrees with my feeling that a page without writing is incomplete or if someone wants to laugh at the sheer number of albums I have. All hail variety. It can be just as odd as that blogging writing process to be constantly sharing the scrapbook pages I make, and usually I am sharing absolutely every layout I make in some way or another. But just lately, I have been scrapbooking a little more that I’ve been keeping to myself too. It’s a bit of a game changer.
So… this? This is why I needed a year to welcome quiet. For every time someone would say something encouraging to me about how they admired how I would represent for the scrapbookers who chose to live a child-free life, I would smile on the outside and die a little on the inside. Choosing a child-free life and choosing to embrace a child-free life are two different things in my world. I respect both, but I have lived one a lot longer than the other. I lived it long enough that I kept waiting to say anything. I’ve kept this secret a pretty long time. And that little boy is scheduled to join our family this April. I expect that arrival means 2014 is not at all my year of quiet, and I’m perfectly perfectly happy with that.
I have no intentions to become some sort of parenting blogger. I am going to mess up at this parenting thing a lot and if for two seconds I start to say I know anything about parenting, please slap me in the face. (I may admit my year of quiet has included a lot of reading on the subject and even sitting in on a few lectures, but I have no intentions of declaring myself any sort of expert on that subject at all.) I still want to be a scrapbooking blogger. While I am of course excited to scrapbook this entire new adventure of life, I’m curious as to what my page balance will become. There was a time when there was just me on my pages, then when The Boy started appearing on my pages but quite a few of them were still about me. Maybe this will naturally become a next step with a third of each? We shall see. But my intention right now is still tell a mix of stories, and I have plenty of memories I still want to add to my albums, including quite a few represented in all those reams of writing I’ve scribbled in 2013. (By the way, I realise the name ‘The Boy’ has the potential to get extra confusing now. Give me till spring or so, and maybe I’ll figure that all out.)
Shortly I shall be heading to California for CHA (in nine days! Oh my!) and that shall be an adventure all its own. It’s also a good thing that I remembered how to write, as I’ve committed myself to a pretty major writing job that will result in something you can hold in your own hands at all good bookstores (well, all good bookstores that import paperbacks, if you’re outside the UK) toward the end of spring or beginning of summer. And a few other big projects I still can’t talk about. It turns out that my year of quiet also meant growing ideas when I had a bit of spare energy from growing a tiny human. 2014 will be a whole other kind of year.
As for what you’ll see here: I don’t want to commit to a big master plan of what will happen in the whole year because something tells me that I need to be ready for the unpredictable and I need to embrace ‘winging it’ in terms to when I will work and when I will not! But you’ll see a lot of scrapbooking here this month, at the very least. I think it will continue, though I may obviously need a little break at some point. Those guest contributors will continue in a bit of a different way: I’ve asked them to help me illustrate all this crazy writing I’ve been doing for so many months. You’ll see their pages and mine together in articles on topics that give me the chance to offer some organised depth. You’ll see layouts, step by step photo tutorials, and videos. I’ve also done some revamping to Best of Both Worlds to make it work better for everyone in 2014, including bringing in some help to show you more than one way you can use the supplies. (More on that here later today!) I’ve also blocked in two posts a week, in theory, to share some non-scrapbooking things too: one column from me and one from Alice, who will continue to keep my sanity and also share some crafting tutorials with you outside the realm of paper. Glitter Girl is back for 2014 too, though in a slightly different format. She still has a weekly video every Wednesday, and has a long list of things she is very excited to share with you in 2014. (Her first episode of 2014 is next Wednesday, the 8th of January.) Plus the first shimelle.com workshop of 2014 has been announced: Return to the Collection starts on the 20th of January, and you can sign up now at a bit of an early bird discount if you like.
I loved my year of welcoming quiet and it was exactly what was needed around here. And now I’m a bit ready to begin a year of embracing the new. I hope you’ll stop by now and then throughout 2014 and be pleasantly surprised with what you find here too.
Thank you, as always, for all your support.
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1 January 2014, 07:11
Heartfelt congratulations and all the very best wishes for 2014, can’t wait to enjoy it all with you.
Kate
1 January 2014, 07:16
Congratulations on your new adventure in life. 2014 sounds like it will be a wild year for you!
1 January 2014, 07:27
so happy for you!
1 January 2014, 07:31
Shimelle, bundles of congrats sent to you and The Boy! Looking forward to enjoying this life changing event with you.
1 January 2014, 07:32
Many congratulations to you both, looks like 2014 will be a fab year :)
1 January 2014, 07:37
Congratulations on this new adventure for you and The Boy!
1 January 2014, 07:38
First of all, Congratulations! I wish you and both boys all the best! Personally, I’ve enjoyed your guest bloggers and greatly respect you for paying people for their craft. It is an enormous amount of work to create something you want other people to learn from and that they may critique more closely. I hope to read and see more from both you and the guest bloggers in 2014. This is not just your job but your LIFE and only you know the best balance. A Happy New year to all 3 of you!
1 January 2014, 07:41
Heartfelt congratulations to you and your husband! What a year this will be, but you are well prepared. Get as much sleep as you can right now! I keep registering for your classes as they appear which is the best way I know how to support your ideas and philosophy. Even if I don’t get them all finished—and I love having them as a resource—I have learned so much from you for free, it’s the best way I can say thanks and do my bit to keep Shimelle.com in business. Thank you and happy 2014!
1 January 2014, 07:42
Congratulations to you and The Boy on your new baby boy!!! Looking forward to more inspirations in 2014.
1 January 2014, 07:44
A huge congratulations to you! I have thoroughly enjoyed the guest posts as well as several of your classes. I am so excited that you are embarking on this next phase of your life!
1 January 2014, 07:45
Congratulations! I wish you and your family all the best. I loved your blog before 2013, and the guests posts were great too. Thank you for all the wonderful inspiration, and I hope you’ll continue to inspire others and find that oh-so-important balance in 2014.
1 January 2014, 07:45
Congratulations, as your family embark on this new adventure.
1 January 2014, 07:46
Congratulations to you and the Boy! I have also enjoyed hearing from different crafters on different topics this year, as well as seeing all that Glitter Girl had to offer and all the lovely things you’ve written/made yourself.
Becoming a parent is an amazing adventure, full of ups and downs, tiredness and wonder. And I totally understand the need to take some time and space to be quiet (I’m writing this at 38 weeks pregnant with 2 children under 4 years already!) I can’t wait to see what this year brings for you and your Boys.
1 January 2014, 07:48
Such thrilling news – congratulations to you and the adhesive avenger! Loved reading this post and your thoughts behind the year that was 2013. Happy 2014!!
1 January 2014, 07:49
Wow – I am so thrilled for you and The Boy. This is wonderful and excited news. Congratulations and all the best on this amazing adventure!
1 January 2014, 07:52
So very happy for you and your husband Shimelle! Wishing you every happiness as you embark on this new chapter of your lives!
1 January 2014, 07:54
A HUGE big congratulations to you! I am so very excited for you. And thank you so much for all you have done to make me a happier scrapper.
1 January 2014, 07:56
Shimelle, that’s FANTASTIC news!!! Congratulations to you, The Boy, and a big hello to The Little Boy in there too :) Every thing in life can be a game-changer if we let it, it’s completely up to you :) And either way, it will be wonderful.
1 January 2014, 07:56
Enormous congratulations to you both. I can tell you from firsthand experience that little boys are the most wonderful things in the world. You will always have a place in my heart because you were instrumental to my return it scrapbooking. Much love, Alex xxx
1 January 2014, 07:58
Many congratulations to you both. Such a life changing time for you and I wish you well as you strive to achieve the right work-life balance. I enjoy your blog enormously, including your guest contributors – you are all inspirational. Happy New Year to you.
1 January 2014, 07:59
Congratulations to you both on the coming addition to your family!!
1 January 2014, 08:00
Congratulations! Wonderful news! I look forward to a year of being inspired by your blog and classes as usual!
1 January 2014, 08:03
Congratulations! May 2014 bring you lots of love, laughter and great memories!
1 January 2014, 08:03
So happy for you two, happy new year, best wishes for the 3 of you!!!!
1 January 2014, 08:04
So nice to hear your exciting news! Congratulations!
1 January 2014, 08:04
Congratulations on everything but especially the “The Little Boy”. I love everything you do and I have learned and grown as a result of seeing and trying something new. I have also “met” some fabulous new scrapbookers on your blog, whom I know follow regularly. I am very happy to take your new class. Scrapbook Remix and your newest class plus video add-on on 2 Peas were fabulous! Also very happy to know that GG will continue in some form or another. Wednesday was always a favorite day for me ;). Finally, as a mother of a boy and a girl, trust me when I say that your scrapbook pages will be FILLED with that new little one. He will be infinitely treasured and you will marvel at every little thing he does! All the best for 2014 for your family!
1 January 2014, 08:05
Well that is fantastic news (and actually, I suspected it some months ago – can’t remember why!) Good luck to you and The Boy and The Baby Boy. I can’t wait to see some baby layouts in that style I admire so much
1 January 2014, 08:06
Congratulations – what great news! Wishing you a wonderful 2014 and looking forward to seeing whatever appears on your blog xx
1 January 2014, 08:07
Shimelle – loved this post! Best wishes to you and this new adventure you are on. I don’t scrapbook but follow all your GG vids and have taken a couple of your classes too. I find your teaching helps me in so many other creative projects I do. Thank you for a great year.
1 January 2014, 08:09
Many,many congratulations to you.
1 January 2014, 08:09
So so so very happy for you and The Boy. Cried happy tears when I read your post.
1 January 2014, 08:10
Congratulations Shimelle! As a fellow childless scrapper I wish you the best in this new adventure.
1 January 2014, 08:11
Oh my, Shimelle, I am so so excited for you and hubby!! Congratulations on the imminent arrival of your tiny human!! They bring so much joy and love and you will find so many things to scrapbook. I hope you have had enjoyed a healthy pregnancy so far and I look forward to seeing more of not only this journey but what 2014 will look like for you!!
1 January 2014, 08:18
I’m so happy for you!
I’m in tears reading this, I know the “smiling on the outside”- feeling all too well. I had no children for the first 5 years I was a scrapbooker.
I was then lucky enough to have three children in less than two years. It means no time to scrapbook but I always say I will scrapbook their baby pictures when they are teenagers and I have to stay up all night waiting for them to get home.
I have always loved your work and hope to get the chance to take a few more of your classes this year.
1 January 2014, 08:25
Wow, exciting new and upcoming things in your life. A new baby, I am so happy for you. Take care.
1 January 2014, 08:26
Congratulations and wishing you all the best in the coming year with all the adventures headed your way!
1 January 2014, 08:27
Congratulations and best wishes for 2014. I am so excited for you both.
Sharon
1 January 2014, 08:28
Yeah, Shimelle! Blessings to you and your family! Having a child is definitely about going with the flow. Embrace the peace and the chaos. You will get lots of both! :) I’ll love whatever you have to share with us.
1 January 2014, 08:29
Congratulations on your happy news! Great news about the new class can’t wait! X
1 January 2014, 08:31
Congratulations to you both. Parenting isn’t a science it’s a brilliant, magical journey with highs and lows, love and fun. Good luck.
1 January 2014, 08:37
Many congratulations!!!!! xxxxxxx :)
1 January 2014, 08:39
Awww Congratulations Shimelle!!! I just became a mommy 2 weeks ago and it is the most amazing blessing my husband and I have ever received. Hope you are feeling great and I am so excited for what 2014 will bring!! God bless you :)
1 January 2014, 08:40
Hi Shimelle!
I truely admire you. Not only do you share wonderful blog content and videos, but also manage to be real and genuine. I love your layouts, but even more that you inspire me to really think about the story I want to tell and to dare to write and rewrite. Thank you so very much!!
To a great 2014!
And all the best to your growing family!!
Heike
1 January 2014, 08:46
Congratulations! What exciting news! Looking forward to this year, and very excited to start the new class with you!
1 January 2014, 08:47
HUGE congrats to you guys! Here’s to embarking on one of life’s greatest adventures :)
1 January 2014, 08:47
Congratulations Shimelle! So excited for you, all the best to your new adventure!
1 January 2014, 08:48
Congratulations! So excited for you. I have a feeling you will rock motherhood, just like you rock scrapbooking.
1 January 2014, 08:52
Congratulations! What very exciting news! I can’t wait to hear more and see more of little boy and to see what 2014 holds here at shimelle.com
1 January 2014, 08:55
I am absolutely thrilled for you. I love your work and it has helped me immensely in getting into this new way of crafting for me. I’m so happy for you. I love the blog and I have no complaints. Good luck with your baby. It seems like you’re already doing a good job at following your heart and what you feel is right so you’ll be fine.
1 January 2014, 09:03
Good for you for doing what is best for you, it’s what matters and a huge congrats on your growing family. So excited for you!
1 January 2014, 09:05
Oh that’s so awesome, Shimelle!!! Happy feet dance! Congratulations to all.
1 January 2014, 09:07
First, congratulations!!!! So so excited for you! Secondly, I want to thank you for all that you and GG has given me. I was really stuck in scrapbooking, but I took a workshop and I’ve watched all of 2013 GG-episodes and some of the 2012 – I’ve learned so much and before it took me well over a week to complete 1(?!) LO I have now in the week between Christmas and new year completed more than 20!!!! I owe it all to you – so thank you for everything. I can not thank you enough.
1 January 2014, 09:08
Congratulations to both you and The Boy on the upcoming arrival of The Bean! April is a wonderful month to have a baby….
Thank you so much for all you do! I love your videos…free or paid! Can’t wait to see what 2014 brings..
1 January 2014, 09:08
Congrats to your new family. I have missed seeing you here on the blog, but I understand about needing the quiet time. You do so much for the scrapbook community and I so admire all that you do. Please have safe travels here to the US and 2014 is sure to be an awesome year for you.
1 January 2014, 09:18
Congrats! I’m very happy for you! And a little selfishly, I can’t wait to see what you do with scrapping some kid pages!
1 January 2014, 09:20
Congratulations! I truly hope you have a great 2014 year. I am so happy for you.
1 January 2014, 09:21
CONGRATS!!!!!!!!! Enjoy every blessed minute of it! and when things get crazy, retreat to the craft room. ;)
1 January 2014, 09:21
Congratulations!!! I did wonder if we would hear news like this from you soon as you had been a little quieter than usual! So happy for you all x
1 January 2014, 09:21
Congratulations Shimelle and hubby looking forward to this year of scrapping along with you how exciting xxx
1 January 2014, 09:23
I am so excited for you,Shimelle! The Boy will bring you much joy in your life – this I can promise you! I would not change my two boys for anything in the world! And – I get my second grandson about the first week of May! So excited! Much love to you and your family from me in Oklahoma! Thank you for all of the inspiration that you have provided.
1 January 2014, 09:24
I am so happy to hear your wonderful news! May you be overwhelmed with amazing and happy this year!
1 January 2014, 09:27
That is awesome news girl!!! Thanks you for the opportunities you have given me. Blessings Shimelle~
1 January 2014, 09:29
Wow, when you have news, you have NEWS! I’m so happy and excited for you and “the Boy” and now, the “Little Boy”. Oh, you’re right: Life will be changing and it’s scary and wonderful and the best thing you can ever do. And on the selfish side, I’m hoping for some “boy pages” since I have 3 grandsons! Congratulations. Maria
1 January 2014, 09:32
Congratulations!! All of your news is so exciting. Especially the baby. I know that we don’t actually know each other, but I feel that I know you a little bit because of your blog and I’m just so happy for you. I can’t wait to hear what else you have in store for this year.
1 January 2014, 09:37
Wow, I was right!!! Such wonderful news and I’m sure we all look forward to seeing whatever you have time for. But yes, most definitely, be ready for the unpredictable ;-)
1 January 2014, 09:38
Congrats on the little boy. You are going to have a fabulous time scrapbooking all those little moments. Just remember to embrace and savor those little moments they do not last forever. Hugs and best wishes.
1 January 2014, 09:38
Congratulations! I cannot wait for your new adventure and to see what adventures you make for your child.
1 January 2014, 09:40
Congratulations on your little boy to be!
1 January 2014, 09:51
I waited 5 years for my first son (they said that I would never have any and now I have three kids…), so I was always wondering if you were also waiting for a baby (but didn’t ask of course, as it’s too private !). I can’t tell how much I am happy for you ! Congrats and I wish the best for your family.
1 January 2014, 09:53
First — CONGRATULATIONS! A baby blesses and changes your life beyond measure, beyond your wildest expectations, from this day forward (and that from an OLD 1st time mom — I was 38 when I had my son!) Second — I guessed it! (In my head … I didn’t say anything … but I guessed it! :-)!!)
Oh … and your pages probably won’t be 1/3 of each — you will have your stories, but you will also have an overwhelming compulsion to watch, and see, and touch, and tell, and share, and smell (God .. babies smell so GOOD!!), and teach, teach, teach!!
Enjoy the wonderful ride!
1 January 2014, 10:02
Shimelle, when I read the part of your post about the new Boy in your life, my heart leapt for joy for you. You’ve been such an inspiration to me; you’ve taught me so much about developing my own style of scrapbooking, and I so appreciate all you contribute to this hobby and its community. Many bright blessings to you and your boys in 2014. I look forward to the new class and your always awesome blog.
1 January 2014, 10:02
What a wonderful post and news for the New Year. Congratulations on so many things. Cant wait to see your little boy. Congratulations ! So very exciting and Im so very happy for you all.
1 January 2014, 10:04
.. and that layout is wonderful !
1 January 2014, 10:04
So very happy for you both! Thank you for sharing your joy with us—have a Wonderful New Year!!
1 January 2014, 10:07
Congratulations Shimelle!All the best for a WONDERFUL 2014!
1 January 2014, 10:07
Congratulations! Don’t forget to take it easy and enjoy every second with your little one.
1 January 2014, 10:09
I KNEW IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CONGRATSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!
If you need an Spanish nurse, here I am ;)
2014 is going to be so exciting :)
1 January 2014, 10:11
Congratulations! So happy for you!! Sounds like you will have the most amazing 2014!
1 January 2014, 10:13
This made me cry :) so happy for you. It is going to be interesting seeing how your blog developes over the next year. Make sure you take some well earned time off when this new adventure arrives. Congratulations and bring on 2014 :)
1 January 2014, 10:18
shimelle, i really enjoyed reading this post. the honesty and the need for quiet. i understand that even though i am not in the scrapbooking industry. and congratulations on everything in 2014. looks lil you’ve got a lot up your sleeve. but most of all, congratulations to you and the boy on your new addition! there’s nothing like the first baby. enjoy. embrace.and be. in. love.
1 January 2014, 10:20
Congratulations on your new adventure! I am so happy for you. Thank you for all your hard work. Whenever I visit your site I am always inspired to create. Happy new year and enjoy every minute of this amazing adventure. Best wishes.
1 January 2014, 10:24
OMG i’M SO HAPPY FOR YOU TWO!! You are such a beautiful person, when I met you last year at our event Spring Time, I realized how special you are…I’m so happy for your pregnancy and I’m sure your scrapbooking Lo will be inspired from it. I send you a huge hug, with love Francesca-Kinà (one of the coordinator of Spring time, the one was breastfeeding her little girl ;) )
1 January 2014, 10:26
Congrats darling! ((HUGS))) YAY so happy for you :)
1 January 2014, 10:29
Congrats! I’m so happy for you! Excited to follow your new adventure!
1 January 2014, 10:30
Congratulations, you are starting the biggest adventure yet!!! I have 3 boys, and yes, your life will change, but only for the better.
1 January 2014, 10:43
Congratulations, what an amazing adventure you’re about to start!
1 January 2014, 10:47
Oh wow, congratulations Shimelle! As I write this I am 20 weeks with my first baby! :-) Exciting times ahead for us!
I love your take on contributing / design team work. I’m a card maker (although consider myself a virtual scrapbooker which is why I follow your videos – haha!) I’ve been on a couple of teams and when I’ve told people, they can’t really believe a ‘job’ exists where you’re just paid in honour or stash! (Although I also realise a lot of said companies couldn’t function with a payroll full of designers) Such an interesting topic and one I’m sure will always rumble away!
Anywho, congrats again and enjoy your new venture! ;-)
Beth xx
1 January 2014, 10:48
such a heartfelt blog post giving us a look at your life behind the scenes. thank you for sharing and congratulations!!
1 January 2014, 10:51
So many good thoughts and congratulations! I am selfishly extra-extra excited as we will be welcoming a new little person to our family sometime in March and I can’t wait to get some more ideas and inspiration for how to balance all those new stories with the rest of my scrapbooking. :) thrilled to follow along with any and all of your new projects, especially your writing!
Best wishes for a happy, healthy, relaxing third trimester and of course a happy, healthy, baby at the end of it!
1 January 2014, 10:51
Many congrats to you and your husband Shimelle! What wonderful news. I have loved watching your videos this year and you have taught me alot.
Looking forward to 2014. Hugs, Barb
1 January 2014, 10:56
Congratulations to you both and good luck with all the new challenges for 2014 ! Wishing you heaps of love and joy with your little man !
1 January 2014, 10:58
So happy for you! Congratulations to you and The Boy, and the boy! :-)
1 January 2014, 11:02
Oh Shimelle, I am so, so happy for you (and this is encouraging – I haven’t chosen my child-free life either). Can’t wait to see what the year holds for you!
1 January 2014, 11:04
Congrats! I had a feeling that this was happening for you. I don’t know why but I just did. Take care of yourself and enjoy everything about this time. Looking forward to what 2014 brings. Thanks!
1 January 2014, 11:07
This is wonderful news! Thank you for all you have given to scrapbookers around the world and I am so excited for what ever you may bring us in 2014. But remember to put you, your hubby and that new little one first in your life as the days, weeks, and years will fly by. I am so excited to see what you have in store for GG in 2014. Thank you so so much. Have a happy new year!!!!!!
1 January 2014, 11:09
I totally did a double take on your layout! And then realized it was an ultrasound!!! How exciting to be new parents! Congratulations!
1 January 2014, 11:13
I loved every word of your post and can so connect with needing to sometimes withdraw and regain energy and focus. And I am so excited for both of you – a baby completes. As a mother and grandmother there is nothing like it.
I also understand completely what you say about only doing paid work. I have considered putting myself forward for a design team or when I am paid in paper and materials. But to be honest, the commitment does not pull. I have seen some wonderfully creative friends completely change their style when they become designers, I could not sacrifice my own style and authenticity. And so I wish you well in all that you do Shimelle. You are being true to yourself and I love that you are paying and respecting others for their contribution. This is an interesting and thought provoking post, relating to how ideas and materials are marketed and shared. I admire your honesty and authenticity . I am excited to hear about the planned arrival of your other creation and am off now to look at your new workshop. You may have been quiet but you have not been idle!
1 January 2014, 11:15
Shimelle & The Boy – Congratulations on your wonderful news. I am so happy for both of you. Your post brought tears to my eyes. It will be a great 2014 for all of you.
1 January 2014, 11:16
Congratulations on all of your exciting news. Sounds like 2013 was a year of growth in many ways and that 2014 will be a year of change in many fun and exciting ways! Excellent!
1 January 2014, 11:17
I am so so happy for you. I am so excited to see all your new layouts including your new little bundle of joy and of course some before he gets here. YOu just do what’s right for you and what makes you happy. I totally understand what you are saying about the scrapbooking industry and the pay. All power to you! Been there done that and it does TAKE A TON OF TIME! Congrats again. I don’t comment most of the time but I love you and all that you do. Happy New Year!
1 January 2014, 11:18
Congradulations to you both! What an adventure you about ready to enter! Blessings to all of you in 2014!
1 January 2014, 11:20
Just the best thing I could have read this morning. Congratulations!
1 January 2014, 11:22
Congratulations to both you and the boy. Your life will never be the same. Enjoy every moment. Thank you for all you do for us scrapbookers xxxxxxxxxxx
1 January 2014, 11:31
Congratulations to you both. Every happiness for your new adventure this year. Also, good for you sticking up for yourself, your co-scrappers and your professionalism. People shouldn’t be expected to work for nothing when the employer is perfectly capable of paying. As my mother would say, we can’t live on fresh air and jokes.
1 January 2014, 11:32
Congratulations to you both and best wishes for 2014!!!
1 January 2014, 11:34
So super happy for you! Congratulations on your pending arrival. I started following your blog in 2013 and have really enjoyed it and love all the inspiration I get from your pages and your enthusiasm. Enjoy this very special time in your life and embrace the changes that come with it!
1 January 2014, 11:49
Congratulations! I know you will continue to inspire us because it is your unique style we admire, independent of your life choices ;) Best of luck with your new adventure!
1 January 2014, 11:49
Congratulations!!!! this is wonderful news! I had a feeling something like this might be the reason you were missing a little bit and it makes me so so so happy for you and your family!!! Wishing you all the best!! And I can’t wait to see whatever you share, baby and parenting, or whatever, included here or anywhere! I enjoy your layouts, classes, videos and the blog. Thank you for all of it and all you do!
1 January 2014, 11:49
Huge congrats to you and ‘the Boy’, Shimelle!! So happy for you. Enjoy to the fullest!
Thank you once again for the amazing opportunity of guestblogging on your blog a while back!
Els.
1 January 2014, 11:49
Congrats to you and your DH on the upcoming birth of the baby boy!
I have to say, if I didn’t like one of the styles of the guest designers I moved on.
I greatly enjoy your work & have learned a lot from you and the guest designers.
Thank you & hope to see more in the next year.
Take Care and enjoy the baby. They grow way too quickly!
1 January 2014, 11:51
I am so happy for you! You have been a blessing to me through your blog. And Thank you for sharing your secret with us! I can’t wait to “meet” him. Congratulations to you and the boy!
1 January 2014, 11:55
Awww~ Good for you!
1 January 2014, 11:58
Congratulations to you both. I love your work and all the inspiration you bring us. 2014 is going to be a brilliant year .
1 January 2014, 12:04
Shimelle, I’m really happy to read about your third one!
1 January 2014, 12:05
Congratulations! This is such wonderful news. Thank you for a year full of inspiration in 2013. Happy New Year!
1 January 2014, 12:26
Shimelle, I am so happy to read your exciting news; many, many congrats to you and the boy. Wishing you all a totally wonderful 2014 x
1 January 2014, 12:35
Oh Shimelle, I’m so excited for you! Congratulations! Take time to relax and rest as much as possible before your little bundle gets here!! Being a mom is as rewarding as it is exhausting!!!
1 January 2014, 12:35
Shimelle I am so happy for you and Ben on the upcoming birth of a baby boy, congratulations to you both
1 January 2014, 12:36
Yay! welcome to the crazy world of parenting, you will be great at it! Congratulations to you and The Boy!
1 January 2014, 12:38
Caongrats on the wonderful news! and thank you for such an informative post. I admire you for what you have done for the industry. I had a similar conversation with my sister about “working” on a design team and only getting paid in product. As a freelance graphic designer she had a hard time wrapping her brain around it. Very excited to see what you have in store for us in 2014!
1 January 2014, 12:39
So very happy for you Shimelle! 2014 is going to be amazing!
1 January 2014, 12:40
I am so very happy for you and the Boy for the safe arrival of your new boy. How very exciting. As a midwife and health visitor I can give fab hints and tips, although I’m sure you have alot of friends and family to do that too. Your post made me smile but as always made me sad. I am in the no choice in being child-free zone so have to live vicariously through other people’s children. I am too old now for that wonderful chance so I can empathise with your feelings on having been child-free for some time. I know you and the boy will be amazing parents because you are amazing people, ok I’ve not met the boy but having met you I cannot imagine you marrying someone less awesome than yourself. Hope that makes sense. Anyway looking forward to the new class, the new baby and the new book and the New Year. Bless you all,
Jo x
1 January 2014, 12:53
Congratulations to you, Shimelle!
1 January 2014, 12:55
Thank you so much for sharing. Happy New Year to you & congratulations on your soon to join the world little one. I have missed your videos & tutorials here on the blog but I also understand you are a person with a life. I will continue to enjoy your posts & videos when you are able to make them.
1 January 2014, 13:13
Many congratulations shimelle! What a lovely blessing. Wishing you the best in all things in 2014!
1 January 2014, 13:15
Congratulations!!! So very happy for you!! 2014 will be an amazing year!!!
1 January 2014, 13:18
Congratulations! So happy for you…I know you don’t know me and we’ve never met, but I literally got emotional when you announced “the boy”. You have been an inspiration in more ways than I can imagine. In my household, glitter girl is well known. So happy for you and wishing the best to all the great, wonderful things in the year ahead.
1 January 2014, 13:31
Congratulations!
I am excited for all of your plans and even though I am one who missed hearing more of your voice on your blog, I really respect your reasons for the guest bloggers.
I have said for a few months that I thought you were pregnant. I am too (due in May) and I am excited that we are belly buddies! This is my third boy. It is an amazing adventure. <3
1 January 2014, 13:46
Oh my, apparently I’m not the only one crying tears of joy at hearing your news! Your family photo is so wonderful. =) I’m also excited to see what this year has in store for scrapbooking…I haven’t made a page since May! I signed up for your new class…it’s been too long since I’ve taken a Shimelle class. =)
1 January 2014, 13:48
So very, very happy for you lovely lady, and lovely boy(s)
I love hearing your voice. I love seeing your classes. I wish you only good things, the best of everything. Buckets of Love from Bees (and SuperCara)xxx
1 January 2014, 13:50
Happy, happy, joy, joy! After having 10 years of a not by choice child-free life, my babies arrived. That was a very short 16 years ago. Let the games begin! Be sure to read, Let Me Hold You Longer by Karen Kingsbury. Such a wonderful perspective. Congrats to your growing family.
1 January 2014, 13:54
what marvelous news congratulations to you, enjoy it all, what a wonderful 2014 xxx
1 January 2014, 14:04
Congrats! What wonderful news on the upcoming new addition to your family. May you have a fantastic 2014 and don’t push yourself too hard. Thanks for all your inspiration over the years.
1 January 2014, 14:20
Congratulations!!! Best wishes to you & your growing family, for a super happy & healthy 2014!
p.s. I’ve loved reading your blog & being inspired by you for a very long time! And certainly this year as well! More content, more inspiration? Why, Yes Please, and Thank You! Consider me ‘in’ for 2014, for sure! Happy New Year!
1 January 2014, 14:21
Congratulations!!! That’s the most lovely news! I’m also due in April x
1 January 2014, 14:22
So happy for you Shimelle. My “little boy” who is now 11 changed my life and expanded my heart beyond anything I could imagine. As for parenting, you will become an expert… an expert for your family as you discover what works best for your little one and your family! Much <3 to you!
1 January 2014, 14:23
Congrats on your amazing little addition to your family!!! I can’t wait to see how this year evolves for you. THANKS SO MUCH for having me as a guest designer this past year.
1 January 2014, 14:32
Huge congratulations to you and The Boy on your fab news. As the Mum of two young girls I look forward to seeing how the focus of your scrapbook pages changes (mine certainly did!)and to seeing lots more inspiration from you and from your other contributors. I just wanted to say that I always love to see your pages, but that you shouldn’t feel guilty about including posts from others too. I love to see what you’ve been doing, but seeing the work of others is inspiring too and you are shortly going to have more important things to think about!!
1 January 2014, 14:33
I am so thrilled for you and you will be such a cool mommy. I totally understand the comment on chosing a child free life and embracing a child free life … Been there … Not an easy place to be at times. I am so thrilled for you
Xxx
1 January 2014, 14:39
Congratulations on the news that you are welcoming a little one this year. Glitter girl, adhesive man and element boy?
1 January 2014, 14:41
Big Congrats to you, the boy and the new boy! Looking forward to what you have in store for us in 2014! Take as much time as you need for yourself though!
1 January 2014, 14:44
Well done you! And thanks for sharing!
1 January 2014, 14:48
Congratulations on your new fresh person and best wishes on your exciting journey. I, too, lived a child-free life for a good chunk of my marriage and when I finally had our daughter I was amazed and a little concerned that they were going to let me take her home from the hospital. I mean, did they know me??? Happy to say she is a lovely and thriving 13-year-old soul and thusly, I am thirteen years a parent, and I still marvel at that. Sometimes you have to put away the books and just wing it—the results are most often worth it. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this magical time.
Anne-Liesse
1 January 2014, 14:48
Many congrats to you and the boy on the Spring baby boy….awesome news!
1 January 2014, 14:50
Happy New Year!!! I’m beyond thrilled for your news, Shimelle!!! Congratulations!!! And on a side note, please keep being wordy and philosophical. Those are qualities about your writing that I enjoy, and appreciate most. :-)
1 January 2014, 14:51
Many Congratulations Shimelle. I am really happy for you. When I saw the photo for the JYC class this season I did have a little wonder and had my fingers crossed for you.
I really enjoyed your thoughts on the paid work aspect of scrapbooking and I didn’t realise you were paying your guests. What a fantastic thing and you are right to be proud of that this year.
I am glad to hear Glitter Girl continues but I have no earthly idea how you film and upload so much each week!
I look forward to seeing what you get up to this year and if you are not around much (totally the right decision) your influence will be and I will support you as I usually try to do by buying the workshop. Off to do that now.
Congratulations again xxx
1 January 2014, 14:55
Well done, and all the best of luck, Shimelle, what a big secret to have kept from us for so long! x
1 January 2014, 15:11
Prayers to you and your family with this new life blessing.
1 January 2014, 15:13
Oh wow Shimelle!! SO excited for you and the Boy (Big Boy AND Little Boy) and this next adventure! Congratulations and Best wishes for continued health and a birth free of complications. Love your attitude of winging it. Parenting is a total wing job as far as I’m concerned!! :) Heading off to check out your new workshop … awesomeness!!!
1 January 2014, 15:20
Delightful news. Congratulations and sharing your eager anticipation. Take it easy and enjoy being just 2 for a little while longer.
1 January 2014, 15:29
Congratulations, Shimelle! I think that is wonderful!
1 January 2014, 15:39
Oh yea!! So happy for you. Looking forward to all of your contributions in 2014. Hang in there and have a fabulous new year!!
1 January 2014, 15:45
Amazing news! Can’t wait to follow your adventures in 2014, be it glittery scrapbooking or the new little masked superhero spawn! :) Start thinking of a super hero name asap! :D Congratulations!
1 January 2014, 15:45
Congratulations Shimelle! That is wonderful, wonderful news. Funny it crossed my mind to wonder if you were having a baby the day of the videos on 2Peas that showed some of the designers face forward answering some questions. Have a wonderful year. Looking forward to more GG too! Blessings.
1 January 2014, 16:03
Congratulations on a new chapter in your life! The “boy” will bring love, laughter and so much joy to your life! Have a wonderful 2014 :)
1 January 2014, 16:03
Well this is my new favourite post from you Shimelle! What amazing news. Congratulations.
I personally love your guests and enjoy seeing a variety of styles mixed in with your own.
Ooh what exciting times ahead! Wonderful. Just. Wonderful!
1 January 2014, 16:11
Oh! And have a wonderful time at CHA, and I can’t wait to hold your book in my very own hands! I’ve always wished there would be a book of Shimelle goodness! Yippee! Roll on 2014! x
1 January 2014, 16:11
Congratulations to the new addition to your family! :) I’m looking forward to read your blog about updates, and really want to see how you handle the whole “little one” being around you when trying to craft… you’ll probably will be able to handle it better than me (you’re so very organized with packing kit bags while I’m always carrying everything incl. kitchen sink to my monthly crop and then manage to make … ummm… 1 card or maybe 1 layout!). And I also look forward to seeing baby/kiddy/scan (?) layouts from you. :)
SUCH wonderful news, and it will be so exciting – will be exhausting as well, but in the end it’s all worth it!! :))
(((HUGS)))
1 January 2014, 16:45
I find it so inspiring when people do what is right for them and stand by what they believe in. Your post was really moving for me, and congratulations! I know you’ll have a wonderful journey this year. xx
1 January 2014, 16:51
Shimelle that’s wonderful news for you. I did wonder…
If you have ever felt that you can’t catch up with scrapping your photos before, you never will now! But you will always have a large selection to choose from!!
I’ve signed up for your new collection class and look forward to watching and learning in 2014.
Happy new year.
1 January 2014, 16:57
Congratulations Shimelle! You are going to be a wonderful Mum!
Happy New Year!
1 January 2014, 17:24
I just wanted to add my congratulations to you and The Boy! Wonderful news. Best of luck to you and your family and business in 2014!
1 January 2014, 17:50
It looks to me like 2014 is going to be one fantastic year! Congratulations! Can’t wait to share it with you here on your blog.
1 January 2014, 17:59
Shemille I’m so happy for you and hubbie! God Bless and keep your family.
1 January 2014, 18:26
Fantastic news Shields. Thrilled for you and look forward to following your 2014 adventure
1 January 2014, 18:52
I was one of those little people that you helped this year and I am sooooo grateful for the chance. Not only did you provide some financial assistance to a SAHM, but you also got my name out there which resulted in a huge dream come true (annoucing 1/2)… Thank you for giving me a chance; it was such an honor! And as a mom of 6, life will become very different with a little one, but they are worth everything. You will make time to scrap, but your perception of what needs your attention WILL change! Blessings on you and your growing family in the year to come and thank you for blessing me this year!
1 January 2014, 19:24
Congratulations! I’m so excited for you both! Thank you for all you do. You have so positively impacted my scrap booking the last two years. I’m sure I’ve done more pages in the last 2 years because of you than I’ve done in the previous 10 years of scrap booking. Thank you for sharing your love of pretty paper with us. I look forward to seeing and reading about all the new excitement coming your way in 2014.
1 January 2014, 19:54
Very well written, as always. As with all the other comments, I wish only the best for your new adventure!! You’ll have stories to tell forever. And just because “The Little Boy” is about to enter your life, I hope you’ll still sprinkle him with glitter!! What a wonderful, exciting year ahead!! Can’t wait! I love all your posts, layouts, writing style, story-telling inspiration and just about everything else you do. You’re a beautiful person and I feel so lucky that you’re willing to share with us. Thank you!!
1 January 2014, 20:01
Congratulations to you and The Boy! What fun it will be to watch as 2014 unfolds for you. Best wishes for a safe and healthy baby boy in April.
1 January 2014, 20:25
So happy for you! 2014 looks to be an exciting year for all of us.
I can’t tell you how much I have enjoyed and embraced your scrapbook style. I look forward to reading your book and what other inspiration you will share with us.
Thank you.
1 January 2014, 20:36
I am so, SO happy for you and ‘The Boy’. You are such an inspiration and we all love and appreciate all you do. I appreciate that you needed to take time for yourself to regroup and I am sure you will need to do so again in the near future.
I am very excited that GG will be back in all of her glittering glory and look forward to seeing how your year unfolds.
Hugs and love to you and your new family. :)
1 January 2014, 20:58
Shimelle, I’m so happy for you and your husband. This is wonderful news and we can see and read how excited you are. Congratulations and please continue to take great care of yourself.
Julie
1 January 2014, 21:10
My very warmest congratulations to you & your husband on your impending arrival. Am so happy for you both. Have loved everything you have posted in 2013 & have gleaned much inspiration from yourself & your guest posters. My best wishes for the next few months & beyond. You will be awesome
1 January 2014, 21:27
So happy for you that I shed tears of joy for you and your hubby. Take extra care, hugs to you and The Boy :)
1 January 2014, 21:40
Absolutely every good wish to you and the boy. I wish both of you the pure joy a baby can bring and much health and happiness as two become three.
1 January 2014, 21:40
I am SO happy for you!!!!
1 January 2014, 22:49
Wha????!!! Best news EvER!!! Major congrats to you and the boys ;)
1 January 2014, 23:20
Congrats! Wonderful news to start off the year. Wishing you all the best for the year. :)
1 January 2014, 23:31
happy new year and congratulations!! i am so very happy for you! and i’m glad you took a year for yourself. i’m very grateful for everything that you share with the scrapbooking world and you definitely deserve some you time! i look forward to seeing what you do in 2014. you have no idea how much you inspire me. glitter girl really pumped some much need new life into my scrapbooking and it’s been so much fun learning new things about this beloved hobby of mine. congrats and here’s to a beautiful new year!
1 January 2014, 23:39
Many congratulations to you both! I am not surprised, I was thinking news like this would come one day and could not be happier for you! Such a perfect subject to scrapbook, if that is what you choose to do. Have fun at CHA and be well! You really are a superhero:)
1 January 2014, 23:52
So excited for you!!! Congrats!!! Looking forward to another year!
2 January 2014, 02:37
Wow, you gave me serious goosebumps! Huge congratulations, I can’t wait to see some baby pages :) have missed you this past year but will love having you back when you can in 2014. Good luck with it all :) xxxx
2 January 2014, 02:38
Many congratulations to you. Such lovely news for the New Year!
2 January 2014, 04:21
Huge congratulations to you Shimelle, and the Boy! What exciting news, and you deserve it so much. Looking forward to all the goodness that is to come in 2014! Take care xxx
2 January 2014, 04:59
Heartfelt congratulations to you, Shimelle! <3
2 January 2014, 05:08
Oh Boy!! What exciting and wonderful news!!
2 January 2014, 05:29
Congrats! You both look so happy in the picture. I wish you all the best in 2014. It’s going to be an exciting year for you!
2 January 2014, 06:00
So Happy for you!
2 January 2014, 07:37
Congratulations! I somehow knew it! Having an unwillingly childfree live I’m so so very happy for you.
2 January 2014, 07:38
Congratulations! I can’t wait to continue to follow your journey through your pages – and I actually think you would make a great mom blogger ;)
2 January 2014, 07:40
This is wonderful news. You must be bursting with joy. Just think of all the baby LOs you will be doing :) Congratulations to you both. x x
2 January 2014, 08:03
Congratulations Shimelle! I look forward to hearing more about your growing family! Watch out for swelling feet on that long flight!
2 January 2014, 08:20
Congrats on everything and your new addition!
2 January 2014, 08:20
Wow, what wonderful news! I am truly happy for you and hope you enjoy this coming year and all of the changes it will bring!
2 January 2014, 08:57
Congratulations to you and your husband! Thank you, Shimelle, with all you share. It is so like you are a dearest friend, and I am very happy for you as you embark on this new adventure. What a exciting new year for you!
2 January 2014, 09:12
Congratulation to you both! Wishing you a safe and healthy 2014 :)
I look forward to all of your layouts in 2014 (including your new adventures as a parent). Even though I don’t have children of my own, I still enjoy seeing layouts of peoples’ families. And any layout you do will exhibit your wonderful technique and style.
2 January 2014, 09:28
Many congratulations to you both. You’ll enjoy the highs and lows but it will all be fantastic adventure. Have a fabulous 2014.
2 January 2014, 09:32
Thank you so much Shimelle for all that you share and have shared over the years. What wonderful news. Congratulations to you both. I have really enjoyed all the new talented scrapbookers you have featured here on your blog. Such inspiration all. Thank you so much. I know 2014 will be an outstanding you for you. God Bless.
2 January 2014, 10:38
I’m happy for you and The Boy. I have enjoyed the guest bloggers and your posts (even the rambling ones). Best wishes for 2014.
2 January 2014, 11:20
So very happy for you…I can feel your excitement! You are about to enter another world and its one heck of a ride!! ENJOY and THANK YOU for continuing to share your work! I learn so much from you!!
2 January 2014, 12:06
Congratulations to you and “The Boy”!! Enjoy each moment of your preparation and anticipation! I look forward to seeing the changes in your LOs. I also want to thank you for your “year of quiet” with all the tutorials, GG videos and class, your UK scrappers class, BOBW, sketches and so much more! I look forward to your new class and hearing about your new adventures in 2014. Merry Christmas and happy new year!
2 January 2014, 12:34
That is exciting news! Congratulations! You’re going to have a fantastic 2014!
2 January 2014, 13:19
Congratulations to you both!! I have LOVED watching your videos and you have completely changed the way I scrapbook (in a good way). I love your style and clear explanations on how you go about making decisions. Anyway, thank you for all you’ve done and will do in the future and I’m so happy for your new adventure!!
2 January 2014, 14:00
Congratulations! I’m sure I speak for your many fans when I say we’ll take any form of Shimelle that you’re willing/able to share with us.
2 January 2014, 14:02
A baby is sooooo exciting! I still remember thinking he would sleep and I would do things, create, clean, whatever. NEVER happened, as I needed sleep, every chance I could get. So, I wish you well. But really, you probably will not get much work done.
2 January 2014, 15:00
Ah congrats Shimelle! Nothing better than a Spring Baby (I should know I was one:)
As for The Boys, you can always do what we do (having several ‘boys’ called Mohammed in our family) – Big, Little, Young and Baby. Good luck!
2 January 2014, 15:12
Oh Shimelle, when I got to that photo of the layout I gave a little gasp of delight for you and The Boy. How wonderfully exciting and lovely for you!! I am so happy for you. Your little boy is blessed to have such an awesome mama. I am looking forward to all the content that you share in the year ahead. You are always inspiring to me, and I look forward to what your future scrapbooking—and other mysterious projects— will look like!!
2 January 2014, 16:35
Congrats to you both. It takes a long time to realise you can’t please all of the people all of the time. Everyone is allowed an opinion but you are also allowed a life
2 January 2014, 16:44
Congratulations Dear Shimelle!! How exciting!!! What a wonderful, heartfelt post dear one. Looking forward to 2014 on your blog.
Blessings ~~ dawn
2 January 2014, 16:50
Congratulations to you and The boy and the little boy! What wonderful news? I look forward to seeing everything you have in store for us in 2014! Love all your projects, videos, posts etc.
2 January 2014, 19:18
Wow, I never realized that you paid all those contributors on your blog… that is really great of you!! And as for the announcement of the new Boy, Congratulations!!! I’m excited for the new year and what you have in store!! Best wishes xx
2 January 2014, 22:34
What a great surprise for us who read your blog. Thanks for allowing us to share this part of your life. Congrats!!! Can’t wait to see all your wonderful layouts you’ll share with us.
2 January 2014, 23:12
Congratulations to both of you! Your post was full of very mature reflections and I am glad that you are starting the New Year with a clear mind and a heart filled with love :)
3 January 2014, 02:26
Good for you for taking it slow this past year. 2014 will rock your world and its gonna be amazing! Kids are a blessing and if you see them that way they wont be a burden! Congrats! Blessing to you in this wonderful season of pregnancy and enjoying the little one! Really happy for you both!
3 January 2014, 03:50
So happy for both of you to hear this news…the heartiest of congratulations from NZ.
Wishing all 3 of you the very best of everything for 2014.
3 January 2014, 04:10
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you both with your wonderful news which I have to say I kind of suspected :)
This year my word is ‘joy’ and since the new year I’ve heard of two new babies born in the family and two other pregnancy stories. Definitely ‘joyful’ news. All the best and you have loads of wonderful mama followers so don’t be afraid to ask if there’s anything you’re wondering :)
Finally, as my friend Ted would say ‘good luck with the book’ – cant wait for that either :)
3 January 2014, 04:53
Congratulations Shimelle, I’m delighted for you both.
3 January 2014, 07:35
Congratulations Shimelle and the Boy, on your new member!!! Looking forward to seeing how your scrapbooking will evolve! :)
3 January 2014, 10:38
Congratulations, Shimelle!! Best of wishes to you for 2014!!
3 January 2014, 13:09
How about “The Big Boy” and “The Little Boy”? Or “Ol’ Boy” and “The Lad”? Congratulations! My “lad” is now 11. The days are long, but the years fly by.
3 January 2014, 13:19
Congratulations!! I bet it is going to be an exciting 2014 for you and the boyS!! :D I wish you all the best!!
3 January 2014, 13:30
Huge congrats to you both Shimelle!! Enjoy the journey and what a wonderful 2014 it will be! Big hugs!!
3 January 2014, 13:31
so good to hear from you again, and so excited to hear your wonderful news. Congratulations! Cant wait to see your boy layouts as I’m the mother of boys too…
3 January 2014, 14:25
Wow, a baby and a book. So exciting. Congratulations! Wondering if we’ll see less pink and more blue in your layouts now. :-)
3 January 2014, 14:38
Shimelle, I was so pleased to read your news and congratulations; a baby and a book! Motherhood has just been the best experience ever for me! xx
3 January 2014, 15:24
I’m scrapping more than ever since the addition of my two sweet girls since 2011… so happy for you and excited for all that you intend to share with us. Continue to put yourself and your family first, Shimelle, and us observers will be delighted to follow along :)
3 January 2014, 16:58
Happy new year and congratulations, Shimelle! I always look forward to your posts and Glitter Girl tutorials, but I understand the need to delegate as needed. Cherish your last few “quiet” months. :)
3 January 2014, 17:16
Congratulations!! Such exciting news to start the new year! Wishing you all the best!
3 January 2014, 17:22
OMG! Did u hear me scream?! Congrats!!!
3 January 2014, 19:52
Congratulations and thank you for sharing this big news,you are gonna be a great mom,and 2014 will be a blessed year for your family. Best wishes!
4 January 2014, 02:36
WOw what fantastic news! A big congrats to you and your hubby. I’m sure you will enjoy the ride that is motherhood. And being a mum to a boy is the best! I’ve just spent the afternoon playing cricket with my 11 year old
4 January 2014, 02:57
Congratulations!!! Wonderful news!
4 January 2014, 04:20
Wishing you and The Boy big congrats, Shim! 2014 will surely be a new adventure and time for new beginnings. I love that you feel so passionately about ‘giving back’ to crafters and your openness to do this fairly. Looking forward to more good times and shared creativeness in the coming year – with baby layouts or not!! Hugs, Rx
4 January 2014, 07:22
Congratulations! The Boy will change your life in such a positive way. The Best New Year to you and your family. :)
4 January 2014, 13:00
HUGE congrats Shimelle! You’re going to be a wonderful mum :) Can’t wait to see all of the layouts you make about him!
4 January 2014, 13:43
Congrats, lady!!!
So very exciting!!!
Xo,a
4 January 2014, 21:31
Wow congratulations, I am so excited for you and the boy and the baby boy. 2014 will be an amazing year for you both.
I have loved learning from all of your guest designers and am in awe of you and what you have done for others in the scrapbook industry.Have fun at CHA catching up with all of your peers and rest if you can.
5 January 2014, 19:36
Yay, yay, yay! So happy for you and your husband!!! Sending prayers and best wishes for good health and happiness in 2014!!! ~ Laura
5 January 2014, 21:56
Amazing, incredible, wonderful news Shimelle!
Sure your scrapbooking journey may look different from now on, but embrace the different. In whatever form it comes.
Wishing you (and your family) the best year yet!
6 January 2014, 03:43
I don’t usually post comments on blogs but wonderful news like this deserves a break in the silence! Congratulations to you both, such happy news to kick off a new year :D x
6 January 2014, 06:54
Oh my GOODNESS!!! A Baby!!! You’re going to be a lovely momma and I cannot wait to see your baby layouts! It’s so much more fun to scrap those kid pics- trust me. :)
6 January 2014, 08:32
Congratulations! I’m delighted to hear this news. I’ve often wondered what your pages might be like if you were scrapping “kid stuff” — I’m sure I will continue to enjoy watching you grow as an artist, a young woman and soon, a new mother!
6 January 2014, 09:46
Congratulations to you and “the Boy” Shimelle = what a wonderful year you will have. My own little boy gave me so much joy on his arrival – even though I was also slightly scared of being a mummy! I am so very pleased for you both and I wish you all the very best as your pregnancy continues. I am a long time alumni of many of your classes – and they never fail to inspire me.Much love to you all on your journey toward parenthood, it’s the best ride in the world – even though there are no handbooks ! Jennie xx
6 January 2014, 17:45
Sending warm congratulations to you and The Boy and The Little Boy.
6 January 2014, 20:13
Oh, how nice for you, Shimelle. Talk about the ‘adventuring’ lifestyle! You’re about to embark on the greatest of all. Hold tight to the Boy and remember that when Boy #2 finds a scrapbooker of his own and marries her (which will happen in the blink of your eye) quiet will return and you and Boy #1 will still have half a lifetime to share and lots of scrapbooking of your own you’ll need to catch up on! My little chicks have all left the nest and my grandchildren are getting their drivers licenses these days – But my Boy #1 still shares my hearth and pages and pages of scrapbooked stories remind us of the adventure we’ve shared for 50 years. You will have to cut back some on the pages – every day may not work for a while in 2014, but don’t ever stop. Let your craft add color and perspective to your stories in the years ahead.
6 January 2014, 22:36
Congratulations on your new little adventure that is coming into your life! So very happy for you!
7 January 2014, 12:39
Congratulations to you both, such wonderful news. I am very happy for you!
7 January 2014, 15:37
Congratulations!!! What wonderful news! So happy for you – your greatest adventure in 2014! Enjoy your journey :)
8 January 2014, 15:31
Not quite sure how I missed this little announcement …. huge congratulations to you …. knowing just a little of your heartache! Hope 2014 is wonderful for you!! xx
8 January 2014, 15:47
Congratulations on the eminent arrival of your new baby boy!
So very happy for you!
Best wishes for continued health and happiness in your pregnancy, up coming birth of your son & the rest of 2014!
8 January 2014, 16:02
Aw, that’s amazing Shimelle! Congratulations! It sounds like you are going to have a very busy but happy happy happy year, and no one deserves it more! Jennifer x
8 January 2014, 17:27
I have been having some non-blog time for the past few months and completely missed this post. Congratulations!!!! All the best for 2014, you are going to have a year of wonderful experiences.
The guest posts that I saw last year were great. They had some different ideas and it is always good to see what others are doing outside of your own little sphere. Now that I know the contributors were compensated in a proper manner, I am truly impressed! Compensation by supplies does not pay the bills, or feed the family. Every little bit counts and I am sure they appreciated the gesture. When I owned a Papercraft shop (now closed) I always paid my tutors in cash, and I was one of the only local shops that did it that way. I could not justify asking them to work for store credit. A few tutors asked to take their pay as credit as that was their way of budgeting for spending money, that was their choice. Working for the love of your craft soon starts to take the shine out of doing it! LOL
Looking forward to 2014 and all that it has to bring to us all.
8 January 2014, 20:39
I am so incredibly happy for you (wiping tears away).
9 January 2014, 14:08
Congratulations! Happy to hear the puffiness wasn’t illness related. Excited to see how this changes your scrapping. Love your work but have to constantly remind myself that I can’t do what you do as a homeschooling mom of 3, ages 13, almost 11, and 8, who is concerned with volume of pages. Where do they fit with all the kids stuff? Who will want to take what pages when they move away or what will happen to them later on? A bit morbid but sometimes those things overwhelm the pure joy of creating something pretty. FYI beware all toys with a large footprint and know that stuffed animals breed and multiply all on their own :)
9 January 2014, 15:15
Congratulations from Kate @ liberty cottage (one of your old digital design team!) – I had a little one a year ago – best thing ever. Scrapbooking = nil though! Ended up becoming a photobook maker with a few notes scribbled. Day One app is brilliant for “scrapbooking” without the prettyness in the busy world of being a mummy!!! Thrilled for you x
11 January 2014, 09:27
Congratulations! I have followed your work for a long time and love your blog, no matter who is posting! :) I can’t wait to see what 2014 brings here, in terms of pages or changes. I also want to add that I have always admired your approach to scrapbooking and your ability to be honest about what does and does not work for you. All the best!
11 January 2014, 09:31
Congratulations for you and your husband! I wish you all the best!
Love your blog and everything you write and teach. Keep on the great work!
12 January 2014, 22:26
Holy Canoly! I am just now catching up on blog posts and I’m sitting here with my mouth agape! Congratulations! I am so very happy for your and “The Boy” who is about to become “The Daddy”. I look forward to what you choose to share. Kudos to you for all your reading and classes. They will help I’m sure. But trust in yourselves. There truly is no manual for parenting. It’s a lot of trial and error. But with a whole lot of love, you will do just fine! I’m so happy for you! Many blessings!
12 January 2014, 23:00
Congrats on your little boy. I look forward to seeing your life change through scrapbooking and your pages include a new face!! :)
13 January 2014, 11:16
I saw May Flaum’s Instagram picture, and I was so surprised and happy for you. It will be fun to watch you balance. No apologizing for not being so prolific! The best to both of you.
13 January 2014, 19:57
Congratulations to you and the boy!! Your journey into parenthood will be full of joy!!
13 January 2014, 20:03
Congrats to you and your hubby, Shimelle!
And for the record, I personally don’t mind your contributors that much…just miss your awesomeness when you’re not around!;)
14 January 2014, 05:49
Oh, I just read it! Congratulations, I’m so so happy for you!
15 January 2014, 14:34
Congrats to you and “the boy”. It’s been great following you on this road and look forward to 2014. Many blessings.
20 January 2014, 01:33
Your blog is full of information and ideas to create creative and amazing stuff which we need in our lives. We always like to get amazing cards to wish some special days and to invite our beloved for special occasions, in this scenario your post is very helpful and effective to learn about the creativity.
29 January 2014, 14:24
Congratulations to you and your Hubby Shimelle. What a lucky boy to come to a family with such a crafty mama. You are going to have a blast scrapbooking his pictures. I just read your post so the wishes are a bit late. But I love your videos and blog and wish you all the best.
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