On blogging....I have received a few emails lately asking me about my blogging experience, how to begin, where to start, how to grow....I'll do my very best to answer those questions here...but, please remember, I am learning myself.
I love my little blog...it's where I turn to share, write, dream, think, connect, hope, learn, and cherish....I think of it as a nest...with bits of creativity, love, thoughts, sorrows, and friendships woven throughout holding it together.
I think that the original purpose behind a blog was to be an online journal of sorts, and I embraced that purpose, but in a way that has been suitable and comfortable to me... I've chosen to not be super open about personal matters here on my blog...I want to be careful to not put too much of myself out there for others to judge and use to their own advantage. It's my happy place, a place I drift to at the end of the day when my body is tired, but my mind is ever so ready to think back on the day and appreciate all of life's miracles. Or...a place I come to in the morning when my house is quiet and my mind and body are refreshed and ready to dream and create. My blog is what I want it to be....and for the most part, it has been such a wonderful, positive experience. I think it's important to make your blog your own....if you love something and are passionate about it...then share it in your own way...there is no right or wrong in something that belongs to you.
Sadly, there will be critics...something I have caught a painful glimpse of lately...comments made, groups formed, and incredibly hurtful and cruel behavior modeled....I can't let it stop me from doing what I love, even though I have considered it and find myself doing so every day. Please remember to rise above the negativity...to be a light for others to look to...share your creativity,...for I believe creativity in any form adds beauty to a world that is a very dark place to live in sometimes. Their words will hurt...just like they did when we were younger...I don't think that ever changes....but please don't let those words change who you are...unfortunately, it is part of the world we live in.
I think you should have as much fun photographing your creations as you do making them. After all, your photographs are essentially a first impression of sorts...so try different lighting, different backdrops, different times of the day when the lighting will accentuate your projects. I don't believe that an expensive camera is necessary...just take the time to try different approaches to photographing your items. I have a room that gathers in wonderful light and all I do is set up a chair, drape a white sheet over it, and direct the blinds in such a way that the light isn't too blaring, but soft enough to add a natural brightness...it took me a while to find the perfect setup. Oh....and I think that natural lighting really brings out the best in your photographs....I haven't used my flash in years.
I remember when I first started blogging....I engaged in online challenges, sketch challenges, color inspiration, photo inspiration, etc. Posting my work in online galleries here and there was a wonderful way to get my feet wet as well. It was such a great way to get to know others...network a bit, and that led to a bit more exposure.
I recently read an article in the Feb/Mar/Apr 2011 Artful Blogging (another wonderful resource to learn about bloggers and their personal experiences). I thought I would share a bit with you as I found it to be an article suitable to the topic today. Nancy Lefko shares how she came to grow her friendships and blogging connections. She participated and still engages in art challenges by the month, week, and day. Not only was she able to connect with others, but was also inspired to try new things....something I would love to make time for as well. If you get a chance to read the entire article, I know you'll find something perfect for yourself and your individual circumstances.
I thought I'd share a few of my favorite challenge blogs and resources with you before I wrap it up tonight:
The Shabby Tea Room, Moxie Fab World, Card Positioning Systems, Got Sketch, Create blog, Papertrey Ink's Monthly Blog Hop, Scrapbook Calls, The Color Room, and something I'd love to get started again...our A Creative Mint photo challenge....stay tuned for more on that.
I would love to hear, as I'm sure others would as well....what your favorite challenge blogs are. If you wouldn't mind sharing them as you leave a comment, they'll all be visible for everyone to enjoy.
Before I go, the vintage images used above are from Crafty Secrets new Love Mail Creative Scraps....they are the sweetest things and in my favorite colors too. The trinket pin is from Viola Mahr, scrunched seam binding from Kimberly Tracy, paper from Melissa Frances and Creative Imaginations, tea stained heart doily from The Little Pink Studio, chipboard heart circle from American Crafts, and then of course a bit of tea stained twill.
Thanks so much for visiting, and if I can help you in any way, please let me know and I will be happy to help.
Night.
Melis
Thank you for sharing from the heart. I'm so sorry people have been cruel. Please know you are a beautiful artist, mom and person.
Posted by: Laura | February 23, 2011 at 06:14 PM
Oh Melissa, I just want to reach out through blogland and give you the biggest hug, my sweet stampy friend :) You ARE such an inspriation for us all. Your designs are stunningly beautiful and it is such a pleasure and JOY to pop on over here and read your lovely little posts each day!
I agree with you wholeheartedly -- blogging is so much fun, an electronic journal of sorts to share with others who share the same passions! I was inspired by YOU to begin my blog 2 1/2 years ago! My experience, like yours, has been 95% positive! Unfortunately, there are those few that feel the need to criticize and micro-manage, but I agree with you, we just have to try to not let it get under our skin, rise above it and keep smiling! Blogging is supposed to be all about the FUN!
I am astonished that anyone could have a harsh word for you -- you are one of the sweetest bloggers that I {know}! Please never stop ... I find so much inspiration in your blog -- from paper crafting, to baking, to all the sweet stories you share about your little bean and hubby!
YOU are a treasure and loved by so many of us out here! I'm sending you a little cyber hug!! I'm ticked {pink} that you listed my little 'ol Shabby Tea Room blog as one of your favies ... we love your designs in the Tea Room and are looking forward to the Birthday Bash Celebration coming up soon so we can, yet again, be inspired by the beauty in your work!
Luv ya' lots sweet girlie :)
Hugs,
Debbie
xoxoxoxoxo
Posted by: Debbie Marcinkiewicz | February 23, 2011 at 06:47 PM
thank you for sharing and also sharing some beautiful blogs. There is not enough time in a day so visit all these wonderful blogs. But I try. : ) Love your creations.
Posted by: Bobbie Lynn Duran | February 23, 2011 at 06:55 PM
Melis ... here are some of my favie blogs:
The Shabby Tea Room {of course!}
Flourishes
Create Blog
JustRite Inspiration
Embellish Magazine
Just Us Girls
My Time, My Creations, My Stampendence
Moxie Fab World
Capture the Moment (PTI)
And ... would love if you started up the Creative Mint color challenges again, so inspiring and FUN :)
Posted by: Debbie Marcinkiewicz | February 23, 2011 at 06:58 PM
Wow. Thank you for your sweet, encouraging words. I am shocked that anyone could say ANYTHING negative to you, your spirit is sweet and gentle and comes through in all you say and all you create... amazing what people do, isn't it? I, for one, LOVE your blog and your creations, please don't ever stop!!
Hugs,
Teri
Posted by: Teri Suliks | February 23, 2011 at 07:19 PM
Gorgeous cards Melissa, as always! I am sorry to hear that you (and a few of my other favorite bloggers) have encountered hurtful and cruel treatment in blogland. Why these people don't channel their energy into their art, their families, or just making others feel good by leaving a comment when they like something (and remaining silent when they don't), I cannot imagine. I love visiting your every post (so happy when I sit down in the morning with a cuppa, and start my day with your gorgeous designs!!!!). Don't ever stop!
As for challenge blogs - I would love to see your Creative Mint start up again. :) I also love Gingersnap Creations (yes, I'm on the DT - cuz I love it). There are different types of challenges every week, and you get a looong time to complete them (which I also love, cuz, well, I procrastinate... sssshhhh, don't tell! LOL) Also love the 'Tea Room, and the Play Date Cafe. Oh, and another of my favorites.... Tag Tuesday at Kard Krazy - all tags, so much fun! Thanks for sharing. I'll be back to read more comments and see what everyone else loves, too. ;)
Posted by: JeanFB | February 23, 2011 at 07:20 PM
mmmm.. something so warm and snuggly and cosy about what you've shared today! After reading this, I thought.. I still have so much to learn. Thank you for being the inspiration to many of us, and the "teacher" I'm sure you never knew you were (and still are!). Thank you thank you for sharing these little tidbits. I treasure the time I spend at your blog each day!
Posted by: miss vio | February 23, 2011 at 07:31 PM
Please consider that the volume of positive and loving comments outweighs the bad ones. I think several PT design team members must have had this happen lately, and the person doing it must be like the Grinch: a heart several sizes too small.
Lovely design and inspiration shared freely: a gift not to be taken lightly. Thank you so much.
Posted by: mamajulie | February 23, 2011 at 07:31 PM
Hi Melissa, gorgeous, beautiful cards. Oh my – I love them! I hope you do not take negative comments to heart. It is difficult, I know, but the small percentage of people who cannot experience the joy of others creations must not be allowed to dampen the very great pleasure that you share with so many people. xo – g
Posted by: Georgianna | February 23, 2011 at 07:52 PM
Hi Melissa, thank you for sharing. I love your blog and of course your beautiful creation inspire me!
Posted by: Sharon | February 23, 2011 at 08:02 PM
Thank you for your continued inspiration, encouragement, imagination and for adding beauty to my life.
Posted by: DebbieD | February 23, 2011 at 08:10 PM
Melissa,
I had never been to a blog much less created a card or entered a challenge until after I saw one of your creations in Card magazine.
With the help of my daughter-in-law I created a very simple blog template but didn't do anything with it until... I met Amy Sheffer. I've never met someone who so graciously gave of her time the way Amy did. Amy helped me get going and start posting. No matter how busy she is she takes the time to send me a little note now and then - that means a lot to new bloggers.
How wonderful of you to start a dialogue on this topic. I'll bet there are a lot of women out there that needed to hear your words.
May I suggest one of the best resource books on blogging I've read thus far: "Blogging for Bliss" by Tara Frey. Great tips, tutorials, blogging bio's.
You have a beautiful style Melissa. Your love for family comes across loud and clear. That's what counts {smiling}. That's Blogging for Bliss. Thank you for sharing your talent.
Posted by: Susie | February 23, 2011 at 08:44 PM
Keep on doing what you do...you are a bright and shining star in the world and you share so freely of your joy and craft. Thank you!
Posted by: Dana Gustafson | February 23, 2011 at 09:13 PM
I can't imagine why anyone would choose this type of outlet to be unkind. Even those who appreciate beautiful scrapping and card-making will have different belief systems, and yet, we can respectfully agree to disagree. Let us simply appreciate one another's talents and gifts, and use them to build each other up; and never to break each other down. God bless you as you create and share your beautiful art. I appreciate you!
Karen
Posted by: Karen Letchworth | February 23, 2011 at 09:44 PM
I'm pretty new to your blog, Melissa, but from the little that I've seen, I'm hooked! Your words are sweet and your creations are inspiring, almost intimidating in their beauty and art form. But keep it up, and thanks for taking the time to share some tips about blogging. I'm a long time paper crafter, but only recently have developed a deeper love & passion for this art and the desire to do something more with it in my life. Blogging (mostly by participating in challenges such as you have mentioned) has given me the opportunity to begin to head slowly in the direction that I want/hope to go. I'm fairly new to this whole concept though, so I very much appreciate your thoughts. Thank you again!
Posted by: Rachel P. | February 23, 2011 at 09:49 PM
Melissa, like others have said already, I can't believe that someone would say something hurtful to you! I know I don't comment often but I've loved your blog since my first visit. I don't know how to say it exactly...but, it just feels safe & welcoming here. I always leave here feeling happy. And you are so talented and such an inspiration to me. Thank you very much!
Posted by: Annabelle | February 23, 2011 at 10:39 PM
Hi Melissa! Just to say thanks for such kind and thoughtful post. I found a lot of interesting information. As an absolute beginner I find it quite difficult to understand all of different aspects of blogging system :) But I am learning :) The cards that you make - are amazing! Thanks for sharing your ideas with us. It's a great source of inspiration! kissinia
Posted by: kissinia | February 24, 2011 at 12:05 AM
I am a silent admirer,I follow your beautiful creations daily. For once I cry aloud: you make wonderful things! You're an inspiration!Thank you so much!
Posted by: Nora | February 24, 2011 at 12:54 AM
I have loved your blog for many years and I know at times there have been moments when you questionned if you'd continue blogging and I'm sooo glad you have. I love your creations and your sweet words. I too love my blog and enjoy entering many challenges when time permits. My favourites are the Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge, the CASE Study Challenge, The Play Date Cafe Colour Challenge, Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge and The Sweet Shop Sketch Challenge. Sketch challenges are my definite favourite so I play with them mostly :-)) Cheers!
Posted by: Linda L | February 24, 2011 at 01:32 AM
Dear Melis
So sorry to hear others have been cruel and have hurt you with their
comments.Just terrible wished I could come over and give you a big hug!
You are so sweet and give so much inspiration ..I always look so much forward to your blogfeeds.
They are so warm welcoming and sweet as are your creations and so are you.You are a very warm gentle kind person..thats what I feel from reading your blog.
You are my inspiration and Betsy, Nichole,Maile and Wanda from A blog called Wanda.
Big hugs from Holland.Holly xx
Posted by: Holly Saveur | February 24, 2011 at 02:31 AM
Thanks from the bottom of my heart for your kind words Melissa. You are so sweet and it is inspiring to hear your thoughts of encouragement. I'm building up courage to start a blog myself - so far I've been worried why anyone would want to see my creations/ read what I have to say, and generally lacking in confidence, but I hope to find a more stable foundation and go for it soon. Thanks again for your advice, and I truly love reading your blog and seeing your adorable projects. Looking forward to more challenge fun!
Posted by: Ruth S | February 24, 2011 at 02:32 AM
Sorry to hear about that negativity that you came across. Ignore it and focus on all the positive. You are such an inspiration to me, I adore your work, every precious detail! I also love the warm and friendly tone of your blog. You're definitely a leader in inspiring so many crafters... for that you should be so proud!!
p.s. I love The Shabby Tea Room of course ; )
Posted by: Clare Buswell | February 24, 2011 at 02:50 AM
Melissa I look forward to your blog every day, it's always so inspirational and your crafting is amazing. I did find out that the spam stopped when I changed my preferences and I have to approve anything older than 7 days. that seems to have stopped them cold. I also do not allow anomymous anymore and that helps as well. Just delete the negative and keep doing what the good people love!!!!
Posted by: Karen W | February 24, 2011 at 04:05 AM
How anyone could have a negative comment about you is beyond me! Thank you for sharing your always inspiring thoughts and projects. I don't have a blog because I feel I might be boring--I still have much to learn. I was the recipient of some unkind remarks just yesterday, so your positive comments were just what I needed. I love the cards shown today as I always do! That heart is so adorable! Blogs I visit every day, of course, your's, The Shabby Tea Room, Bits & Pieces, Clare Buswell, Viola Mahr.
Posted by: Patty O'Malley | February 24, 2011 at 04:38 AM
I am so sorry to read that you and other PTI people have had negativity directed towards you. You are all so wonderful and inspirational. My entire creativity vibe comes from each of you and your unique, beautiful creations. Mean people are horrible. And unfortunately, even though the rest of us feel or have stated that they do not need to be that way....it must be in people's behavioral data banks permanently because they rarely change. So please keep posting, keep blogging and keep inspiring us. I know how hard it is to look past cruelty. I know. But each time their words sting - think of the 100 other people who are telling you that the mean comments are plain and simple - rude and uncalled for!
Posted by: Kim | February 24, 2011 at 05:09 AM