It's hard to believe, but nearly two years ago I made the announcement that I had been selected to join Paper Crafts Magazine as one of their Go-to Gals. It's a day I will remember for the rest of my life. (You can read my initial post here.)
These past two years have been incredible! I've learned so much & have made memories that I'll cherish forever. But more than anything, I treasure these past two years because of these girls. This is the very first moment we all met. (Teri's flight hadn't arrived yet for this photo.) ;)
This group just clicked from day #1. Every one of the GTGs are genuine, kind-hearted, & their talent amazes me!
Soon I got to meet the rest of the crew & my heart swelled even more. The whole Paper Crafts crew just rocks! I have so much respect for them as individuals & for how hard they work each & every day to contribute to this industry that I love. They spoiled us from the very beginning... and as a mom, it's such a treat (and kind of a shock) for someone else to take care of you for a change.
I loved our trips to Utah & I'll never forget all the fun that we had. Susan's Paper Crafts cheer is still stuck in my head. lol!
I got to travel to CHA & hang out with people who actually get my crazy obsession for paper & scrappy goodies. It's always wonderful when you spend time with people & realize they're even more awesome than they seemed online. ;)
I also got to tour some amazing scrapbooking manufacturers' headquarters... like Stampin' Up!, Doodlebug Design & American Crafts. The girls made me pose like that below. It's not in my nature. (You can't see it, but Teri has a gun behind my back.)
I kid, I kid! ;)
I also got to go to Disney for the first time in my life while at CHA. Don't tell my kids that I went without them! ;)
These are just a fraction of some of my favorite memories as a Go-to Gal.
But... as time goes on, new dreams are formed. If you peeked into my craft space, you would find this print on display. I guess you could say that this is my mantra:
In a few months, I'll be closing this chapter in my life. Saying goodbye to Paper Crafts is bittersweet. Most of all, I'm going to miss spending time with these beautiful faces that I've posted above. But... the great thing is, I've created lasting friendships & that doesn't end just because my role is changing.
I look forward to seeing what life holds before me. I have so many plans & ideas & I can't wait to see how the future unfolds.
I remember how I felt when I received that first phone call, letting me know that I had been selected. In fact, it's one of the few phone messages I have saved. ;) I know that someone else will now get that same opportunity & I'm so excited about that. I'm ready to pass that torch on. Knowing that my end is someone else's new beginning is an awesome feeling. Thank you, Paper Crafts, for believing in me & for a great experience. xoxo
Congratulations, Susie!