At the start of this year I set out to challenge myself and try and produce as much content for this blog and my other social media outlets as I could. The thing is, I was crazy in doing that for a whole bunch of reasons.
You knew it, but I was blind to it.
Why?
The main reason is because it’s flipping exhausting and left no time for me to have a real time out, or explore creativity just for the fun of it and has eventually led to a creative lethargy where I don’t feel that I am putting out my best work.
Over and above that, I set this challenge on top of my actual bill paying workload – what an idiot!
Lol!
So what does that mean?
Well, for the next couple of months I will be lifting my foot off of the accelerator a bit and making a few changes to my daily routine, and the stuff that I post here and elsewhere online.
Cutting files will still be released on a weekly basis via my Creative Fabrica Fans page and Creative Fabrica Store – I will make sure to let you know via this blog on Tuesday and Wednesday as usual.
Course content (for my SNC courses on Udemy) will still be reviewed and updated where necessary and I will still be monitoring the Scan N Cut Facebook group too.
The SNC Facebook group will still feature in my regular admin list.
Sadly this change does however mean that I will be bringing the Card Sketch Challenge, Fun with Foundation Paper Piecing and Adventures in Machine Embroidery series of posts to a close earlier than anticipated – although there are a couple in the schedule that are pretty much ready so I’ll pop those out when they have been finished.
Random stuff will also still pop up here and there as I have a few things remaining that I wanted to share before the end of the year and I also have some projects that I will be completing that I think you will be interested in, so do look out for those.
In the meantime I would like to say a MASSIVE thank you to anyone that has taken the time to comment on or liked anything that I have put out this year as you have been the motivation to keep at it.
There will likely be more changes in the coming year as I head towards turning 50 and start having an existential crisis about my future and what the heck that will look like so do look out for those melt-downs – they should be fun if the last few years have been anything to go by.
Anyhoo, this isn’t goodbye, as like I say, I’ll still be popping up so I’ll just casually back out of the room whilst grinning awkwardly …
GENTLEMAN CRAFTER 
Hi John, just remember to breathe and relax. You are so active and have been so busy just put the brakes on and take care of yourself. Don’t forget to include lots of cuppas and biccies!!
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Thank you for all the things you have done for us this year, but even I am struggling to keep up so hardly surprising that you have finally realised you set yourself up, oops! Turning 50, not so bad, just enjoy!
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Thank you John from Australia, I have enjoyed all your post and have learned such a lot but at 82 I of all people know that it is most important to look after yourself and take time to enjoy life. Your knowledge right across the crafting industry is amazing and your willingness to share with us all is most appreciated. So John now it is time for you, I look forward to following your new journey. Take care xx
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You have done a stellar job John, sharing your creativity with us all week after week. Please take as much time as you need to recharge your batteries, put your feet up, lay your head day and do whatever makes you happy. We will be here waiting when you are ready. Take care xx
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Your health and well being is far more important than any blogpost John.
I know how it is to not craft for fun anymore, no creativety is left anymore that way.
Glad you don’t stop completely and we still can enjoy things from you from time to time. Always love all the things you make.
Don’t worry to much about getting 50, it doesn’t hurt (lol) and it’s just like any other birthday.
I’m writting this from my bed, having Covid, so don’t look for any spelling mistakes because my head is full of cotton wool but I wanted to write to you anyway. Pay close attention to yourself, go crafting and make something for yourself and what makes you happy then your mojo will come again. Enjoy your day, a very big hug from me to you❤️
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The most important thing is that you take good care of yourself John. I have been grateful for your card sketches and with last year’s and this year’s I have a lot to be going on with. Thank you so much John. Hope all goes well for you x
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Look after yourself John, you are the most important thing!
Thanks for the card sketches.
Clare x
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Dear John Thank you for the sketches, I have enjoyed collecting them. All the best, Judy Marion
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We all need to step back a little now and then. I can relate and understand how this will hopefully give you some ‘breathing’ space.
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Oh John, the only thing that surprises me is the fact that it took you 10 whole months to realise what a whirlwind of a workload you had actually given yourself. I’m sure we will all understand you taking a few steps back. You just make sure you stay well and focused on the things that pay for your beans on toast. Meanwhile I would like to say a huge thank you for everything you do for us, you’re amazing. xx
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Having tried to keep up a weekly craft blog with nowhere near as many other commitments as you have been juggling John, I totally understand. I am glad you have made this decision, but am also glad that I will be ‘seeing you in all the old familiar places’ …… 😏 (sorry – that started and I just had to finish it). I have thoroughly enjoyed your ‘content’ and look forward to seeing more (although less 😉) in future. You are amazing at sharing your knowledge and results of many hours of design work – we know that won’t change. Take care of yourself John, recharge those creative batteries and I look forward to sharing your ongoing journey 💜
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