Monday, March 2, 2009

A wee personal note...(aka confession) ;O)

Hi Ladies n Gents,

In the spirit of keepin' it real (and hopefully not just whinging) ;O)

A personal word (or 2/3) ;O) to those of you who are kind enough to check in here regularly. My posts will be a little more sporadic (in time of day) and I'll occasionally be taking a day or two off (perhaps without advanced notice, sorry.)

I've really been struggling to maintain templates & tutorial etc... I haven't said anything, because I've felt like saying so was being ungrateful for your kind visits here & for all of the opportunities that I'm so lucky to have. (I also feel like a broken record...and am such a perfectionist, that I'm embarassed to admit I can't do it all and then some... LOL.)

Anywho, long & short of it is that I'm still very sick. My lung infection hasn't cleared and my energy levels are really low. I'm trying to strike a balance in caring for our home (and cooking regularly so we eat healthier & detox.)

I am so very blessed, personally; Charles is amazingly supportive. (He's the only reason it's possible for me to blog so much instead of working a paying full-time job--which our finances sorely require LOL...but I hope to start a small business venture soon. ) Blogging involves a lot of sacrifice for him, so I want to be sure to make our home more comfortable & work more on our health.

I know you'll understand a day or two off without this preamble, but I just wanted to explain. This blog is so much a part of my life and my connections with you all are so meaningful that I wanted to keep it "real."

Awards & Emails:

I've hesitated to announce this because I feel bad about it, but here it is...

If you have been generous & thoughtful enough to give me an award, I thank you so very much. I'm honoured but I can't keep up with posting them, and so in fearing that I might leave someone out, I've decided to just have a policy of "I love ya for it, I'm grateful, & I appreciate it, but I can't post it." If that sucks, I appologize. It's been a real source of guilt for me (which I know I create all by my-own-self for my-own-self)... so I'm trying to narrow that feeling down in my life.

If you've sent me an email that hasn't received an answer, please consider sending it again. I sometimes lose them in the structure of my gmail account (and with not being able to keep up...)

If any of you have advice on how to balance this all (blogging, emails, tutorials, templates, blurfing, cooking tips, or where to acquire a spare set of arms... whatever... LOL) I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks so much for listening to me,

103 comments:

Catherine said...

Mel - I have been so bogged down lately, I didn't realize how serious your illness had gotten. Of course, your health is the most important thing! Take care of yourself and we'll all be here when you are ready and able.
{{{Healing Hugs}}}},
Catherine

mudmaven said...

Oh Mel - balance things out however it works best for YOU! We all understand and if anybody gets pissy - well it's their problem and don't you make it yours. You just take care of yourself and your family and do whatever it takes. We'll just muddle along hoping that you are taking care and getting better! Hugs and prayers coming at ya! ~chris

Anonymous said...

Mel, please take good care of yourself! Your health and your family come first. We'll miss you when you aren't blogging, but we'll look forward to hearing that you are WELL.

Hugs and Prayers,

Linda

Jacqui Chimes said...

Dear Mel
I love your blog and projects but there is enough on there to keep most of us busy for ever (well nearly and especially for people like me who have 'discovered' you recently). I too have horrendous migraines and these together with an infection must be awful. Don't feel bad - just get well and be sure we appreciate all you've done.
Jacqui (from the UK)

Elaine A said...

Mel -

HAving spent the last 2 months on and off with a sinus infection and bronchitis, I understand how you can feel run down and tired. You need to take care of yourself so you can take care of those you love. Take the time you need, the days off that you need, we understand and if we don't - well that is just too bad for us - LOL! Honey, we visit your site because we love your crazy self, but we understand you have a life. Also, you blog and give us your lovely ideas because you love it and it is how you express yourself. Don't let this turn into a chore and then become something you dread having to do. We would rather hear from you once in a while, then never at all.
So concentrate on taking care of number 1 - yes you!! Be good to yourself.

Elaine Allen

Anonymous said...

Mel,
you are absolutely fantastic---LOVE your blog!!!! You are so generous and sweet about all the tutorials and templates!!!Please, take off a day or two to balance your life, esp. to get well, helps all of us! Take care of yourself, keep your well filled 'cause so many draw from you.

(((Hugs)))
eLLen

jealeo said...

How about if you get healthy and then we will all benefit by your awesomeness (is that a word?) Your health and the well being of your family should always come first. We will wait patiently for your return... and we will wait! No worries just be well.
Peace.
Jean

Sabrina Jackson said...

Mel, I have noticed that you don't post as regularly as you used too, but you know what, YOUR HEALTH is more important than anything. I know I am very grateful that you take the time and create all of the tutorials and find all of those other cool websites and blogs for us, but you need to take care of yourself and try to get some rest so you can HEAL!!!!! I pray that GOD will touch your body and restore it fully.
One thing is for sure, you will be MISSED, but please take care of your health issues FIRST!!!!
{{{HUGS}}}

Terri said...

Mel~~~I've recently been laid off, and up until now I hadn't realized just how little I was taking care of myself and doing for me. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you get healthy because without YOU...what else is there. Take care of yourself. Prayers on this end...
Terri

Cheryl said...

I don't check in all the time but you have a wonderful blog. BUT your health is most important. Get well so you can stay well. Prayers will be heading your way.

Maria said...

Oh Mel! I understand. It is a lot of work to create tutorials, templates, cards, projects, etc. and I too have struggled through last year trying to keep up with my 3 blogs. I finally decided that for my sanity and for my family sake, I needed to give up two of them. Honestly, it feels so much better. I had difficulties giving up the sites. . I had faithful readers and I felt bad about it.

So. . .taking care of yourself, your husband and your home is far more important. Don't feel bad . . .we bloggers understand. Blogging and creating should be a happy adventure. . .LOL!

Besides, you have so many stuff on your blog. . gosh, you were too quick for me. Every day I come over there's a new tutorial and I'm like. . .gosh all of them are good. . which one should I do first!

I hope you are able to get better. I'll still be around catching up on all your tutorials, templates, etc.

Maria

Anonymous said...

Your readers love you and want you to be healthy first and foremost. Take care and we will see ya when we see ya!

Valarie (vampme3) said...

Hey Mel...I've been following your blog for some time now and certainly enjoy learning from you, but you certainly should take care of yourself and your family above all else. When something like blogging, papercrafting, or whatever becomes stressful and somewhat of a burden, it is time to back off a little from it. After all, it is supposed to be a pleasure. Please take care of yourself and don't feel you need to apologize to anyone. Hugs, Val

Eva said...

Mel, please take good care of yourself!!!! I so appreciate your work you provide for all of us! Your blog is by far the best resource for all crafters and I love coming to visit, but your health comes first. In fact I just used one of your templates in a tutorial, and gave you credit for it, too, so thank you, thank you!!!

Anonymous said...

We are so grateful for the fabulous tuts etc. You must put yourself and your famil first Mel. Those of us who truely love and appreciate your work will be here when you are feeling better. You take good care of yourself, just let us know you are OK when you can and we will be happy.
Take care.
Pol x

Anonymous said...

Honestly the most important thing is your getting better, which might also means not blogging for a while. As Jacqueline said we have plenty to do whith what you already gave us. So take a break, just pop in from time to time to let us know how you are getting on and I'm sure most of us will be entirely satisfied.

Hugs from my little corner in France

Liz S. said...

THANK YOU for sharing your talent and energy with us!! I look forward to reading no matter how often/seldom that you post!

Baukje said...

Mel, THE most important thing here is YOU, I truly adore your blog, but without you there is no blog so please take all the time you need to get yourself and you family healthy, we will be here waiting for you, and like so many have said there is still plenty for us see and do.
Hugs........... Baukje

Janice said...

Mel, while I thoroughly enjoy viewing your blog and have learned a great deal from you, your health must be the most important thing for you take care of! Perhaps you should consider only adding a blog once or twice a week until you get everything under control. I'm certainly no expert in time management or cooking but I absolutely live by Rachael Ray's 30 Minute Meals and Ellie Krieger's recipies. Both ladies can be found on the Food Network or their website. Good luck hon.

Shirley said...

Mel, Please take good care of yourself which is more important than the blog. As other people have mentioned, you have enough on your blog to keep all of us busy for years! Health, family and home should now be your priority. We will all survive. Again my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Shirley L.
Roseville, CA

Anonymous said...

Hi Mel,
I wrote to you about your lung infecton before and hope you got the email. A lot has been written about this, and I hope you google it to have some insight. I remember a TV special on the mold and the long term results of exposure. It taks specific drugs to get rid of it.
Sorry if I am too personal, forgive me, but as a nurse, I forget to take of that hat when I know how how sick you really are. I would leave the name of the condition (here) but can't for the life of me spell it correctly. Let me know if you want me to look it up, ok?
Love you, and will wait patiently for you to get beter.
Best regards,
Sharyn Davis
smd46@yahoo.com

Baukje said...

Mel, THE most important thing here is YOU, I truly adore your blog, but without you there is no blog so please take all the time you need to get yourself and you family healthy, we will be here waiting for you, and like so many have said there is still plenty for us see and do.
Hugs........... Baukje

Anonymous said...

Mel, I am 54 now and remember back
when I was in the era that you are
in with a life that required more
arms then I had. The best thing I
now tell my daughters is to feel
comfortable with what you feel God
is telling you to do with this day.
It sounds like you are working on
that and I pray that through this
time you will learn some new things
about yourself that will help you
get better and stay healthy, both
physically and emotionally!!

Robin L Greenslade said...

Mel,

First and foremost, I hope that it is okay that I add you to my thoughts and prayers --

Next, nothing matters more than you, your health and your family. Everything else is an additional blessing.

Please know that in being human, you have once again proved that you are indeed special and super.

If I could actually reach through my monitor and give you a warm hug and a hot cup of tea, I would.

Please put your self and your family first.

Hugs,

Going with the Flow By Renee said...

It sure is hard being super woman! I get to where I feel totally overwhelmed! You are probably feeling that way too. Take care of YOU and what you need to do and we will always be happy and grateful for when you do have time to post for us! Feel better and no worries! Renee

Debbie Pamment said...

NEVER feel you have to apologise for taking time to look after yourself!! Hope you get on top of this infection soon....BIG hugs
xXx

Mari said...

Oh, Mel. I had so hoped that you were feeling better. I imagine that lung infections are a very serious business, that should come first. And while I don't get migraines, I do get cluster headaches, so I know just how worn and depressed those can leave you. Above all you must care for your body, your blogging can wait! And as so many have said, there are *plenty* of neat stuffies here to keep us busy for a mighty long time! We'll miss you on days that we don't 'see' you, but we'll still be here stalking you! :)

ikki said...

Hi Mel, your blog is just brill and you obviously work really hard to help, encourage and inspire with your creations. So, I will just say thank you so much and take care of yourself and your family. When you feel better your crafting audience will be waiting with open arms. Love and best wishes, Eileen (aka ikki)

Bella Rose Creations said...

Take VERY good care of yourself and Charles...I too have an angel in my life that lets me blog surf at home instead of working full time. This has been a bad cold year...we have had sinus infection after infection...I look forward to some warmth! Feel Better!

Anonymous said...

Mel, as others have said, and we all know first hand, your health is of prime importance. It makes everything else possible. Thanks for the explanation, but absolutely no apologies are necessary. With all the content you've already provided, it will be months before I'm in need of something new. Get well, my crafty blogger. Stress less and grow healthy!

C. Sage Deerborn said...

Mel, by all means take care of your health and your family first! I love reading your blog daily, but not at your expense. Take care of yourself or we are all going to be mad at you.

Desi said...

Take care, you are such a talented and generous person. Get well very soon!
Desi Wilson

Lori said...

Mel, sweetheart I am writing without reading everyone else's post. I want to thank you for all the wonderful things you do and tell you that you do these great things from your heart. You should not feel guilty about taking care of your health first, then your family. If you are not healthy everyone suffers. As someone who almost had a heart attack a few months ago and had to have surgery, I can tell you that one of the healthiest things to do is use only Olive or Peanut oils when cooking (NO VEGETIBLE OIL...ALL FAT). Not only are they good for you, but you will notice a big difference in flavors too! Please take care of yourself. I bet you have thousands of fans who love you and don't want anything to happen to you. Hugs Lori

Peggy Maier said...

I didn't realize that you were still so down! I can totally sympathize. I had a 3 yr. bout with bronchitis & pneumonia over & over. It took a long time to recover. Be sure to take care of your health & of your husband's comfort - those are most important! I enjoy your blog & will look forward to those times you can post! Have a blessed day!!!

Sandy Knecht said...

The most important thing is life is your health and your family. You must do what you have to do. God Bless you and hope you start getting better soon.

Anonymous said...

i think everyone can understand your situation. this takes a lot of work and can really add to your health issues. so, take care of yourself and i will be glad to "see" you whenever you are able!
sandyh

Anonymous said...

Mel,
We are just grateful for the time you are able to give us. It is definitely a Gift to us, not an obligation for you. We appreciate you and want you well. Family is always first.
Thank you for what you have given us.
My prayers are with you and your family.
Mona

rosebudinnh said...

Take your time, and do what you can. I follow your art around lol I follow your blog and on Splitcoaststampers.... I have copd and lung infections are serious even when you dont have lung disease, be safe and careful.

Joani McDonald said...

Mel
Please take care of yourself. I for one love all of your blog posts, but knowing that your posting and not feeling well only makes me not enjoy reading. I would rather know that you are ok and read a post from you once a week than to read everyday and know you are not well.
Please take care of YOU. And I will send some get well prayers your way!
Hugs,
Joani

Unknown said...

Hey Mel, I for sure love your posts!!! Feel better !!! We will miss you:)

Kim Etherington said...

I'm so happy to see this on your blog. You need time for yourself and Charles. PLEASE get to the Dr for the antibiotics, or it'll just linger forever. Take time to draw more adorable images that I think you need to sell. You're so damn talented. I'm so lucky to be able to be your friend and benefit from your selfless giving. My girls loved the bunnies, I loved the bunnies and you need to sell them for the rest of the crafting community to enjoy them! Have the confidence in your ability and don't feel guilt over any one having an issue over you selling your images/ templates. Instead of other people copying them and selling them as there own, you need to sell.

Tell me ladies.. who wouldn't pay for Mel's templates??!! Others sell theirs for $5.00 and aren't always that detailed.

Take care sister and hope to see you soon! Mwahhh!

xo
Kim

Debby said...

Hi Mel. While I love your posts and all that you provide to us, there isn't anything more important than health and family!! Take care of those first. I'm sure we'll all be here whenever you're able to post.
Blessings - Debby

Anonymous said...

Bless your heart, take care of yourself and get well. I will miss you when you are not here.

smallcity

Rosella said...

I really appreciate coming by your blog, but life comes first. Your health and family are definitely more important than us. I don't think that a blog should take over our life and I totally understand that it is not possible to do this everyday.
I hope and pray that your health will improve fast!
I will be here whenever you feel like blogging.
THANK YOU!!

Sheene said...

hello mel,

take care of yourself and get well soon.. we'll wait here till you get back prim and purrty again..

hugs and much love from the Philippines,

sheene

pescbrico said...

I was wondering how you could keep up with so much stuff on your blog so I totally understand that you need to slow down. I do the same thing for the award or tag I receive... I go and say thank you to the person that give it to me but does not follow up anymore since it's time consuming and I prefere to put that to something else! With the feeds... it's easy to visit you when you post something new so for me it's as good if you post every day, week or month I will enjoy it no matter what! Thank great care of you! I hope you will feel much better soon!

lisa808 said...

Take care of yourself first and foremost. The most important thing is that you are healthy. We all understand and want you well.

Cazzy said...

Mel your tutorials are wonderful but you need to take care of yourself first hunny.

Get well hunny.

Cazzy x

Anonymous said...

Mel,
Your web site is the best. However, like someone else said, we would only want you to share with us when you feel like it. Sometimes is better than never. Please do take care of yourself and your family. They come first no matter what! We love you and look foward to your posts whenever!
Thank you for all the sharing!
Donna

Anonymous said...

Hi Mel,

Please stay healthy, I rather have you whenever you can than too lose you altogether! You are amazing. Good luck with your little business. God Bless you and I will pray for you and your family....

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry Mel, that your "moldy" health hasn't gotten better and can only say that you need to do everythng you can to get better. This means finding a balance in your life that positively influences everything. I really look forward to your amazing and creative posts, but don't want your health and homelife to suffer because of it. This only means that every post is so much more special.
Barbara

retiredheather said...

Oh, Mel I am so sorry that your illness has gotten out of hand. Please do not worry about answering this email...just heal yourself. Your work is wonderful and it is Worth Waiting For...get Healthy First.
Hugs
Heather

Diane Davies said...

Your health comes first and all us fans know that. I've always wondered how you posted so often anyways. Your work is so detailed and the blogs are always full of links. I know it takes a long time to get those list links go together. I don't know how you did it in the first place - even before you got sick. About the awards things, in reality it's really kind of just a way to promote their own blog in hopes you will link them in acknowledge of the reward. I can say that because I'm guilty of doing that in the past myself. I dont' think I've sent you one though. Not to say your blog isn't award worthy because it so very much is. I get your email updates so I only come to the blog when I know you've posted something new or if I'm looking something up from a past blog. Anywho all that to say no apologies necessary! We still love ya!! : )

SueB said...

I'm sure you've noticed the general feel of posts so far - and you know the old saying, "don't sweat the petty stuff, and don't pet the sweaty stuff"? you take care and post what you'd like to when you can! we'll be here!
- a fan

Anonymous said...

Mel, you are so awesome!!I know that what you put on your blog takes an enormous amount of work, and I appreciate very much everything you have done. I sure am hoping you start feeling better. I am so excited when I get an update and will still be very excited whenever you can update. Take care of yourself first and worry about us last!!

Dawn said...

the important thing is to take of YOU and your family!! hugs and I hope you're better real soon!

Priscilla said...

Mel,
Love your blog it is fantastic. there is enough techniques and tuts to keep me busy for months. Please take care of yourself and family first. We will be happy just to hear from you from time to time and let us know how life is treating you. Thanks for all the great ideas.
Take care,
Priscilla

BLJ Graves Studio said...

I love your blog! :-) Thank you for all you do. Take care of yourself and I hope you feel better soon.

Julie Campbell said...

Oh man! I was hoping that you were feeling a lot better! PLEASE take care of yourself and focus on getting better!

Mary said...

Please do not over extend yourself. You are the most sharing blogger I have ever seen!! You work is brilliant. Slow down. Rest. The coming warm days of Spring will help you, I'm sure. Meanwhile, your fans can enjoy learning from your "Archives." Take care.

Kelly Mahany said...

As one of your blog readers you can rest assured that I would never demand of you more than you are capable of providing! By all means, please take any time you need to get your rest and take care of all the other important things in life.

As one who tends to deal with self imposed guilt, I beg of you to give yourself a break! You have been so generous with your offerings on the blog and we will take them when you have them!

Thanks for all you do and for your wonderful blog!

Linda Crowder said...

MEL! My goodness, girl. Please know that I am not alone when I say we would rather not have as much of you now than not have you at all later. And please, please take care of yourself. You don't want what started out as just an infection to scar your lungs or something worse. I know, I have Interstitial Lung Disease and it began as an infection from allergens in the barn where I worked. I don't mean to badger, but only you can take care of YOU. God bless you and I hope you feel better very soon, as do several others from what I read here. LISTEN GIRLFRIEND!

Anonymous said...

Family and health should always come first. blog when you can. Prayers for you and yours

Norine said...

Mel I have just started blogging and have maybe 65 followers now I know that isn't a lot but you know its very time consuming because I want to comment on everyone's blog that is so kind to follow mine and than there are the blogs I follow (cant begin to count them) and i try everyday to comment but it is so hard, I think everyone understands and would never hold that against you. You have always been so kind to give us so many wonderful tut & tips. You know I was feeling bad that I wouldnt get that many hits on one of my cards but as I started signing up for diff blogs I realize there just isn't enough hours in the day LOL
I had no idea you were not feeling well and hope you get better soon. Please blog when you can no one that follows your blog will go away I am sure of that. Your family & health are whats most important. Hey it will be something to look forward to
Hugs
Norine

Dolce Deb's Designs said...

Mel you have an awesome blog and when I visit I can see the time and effort (150%)that you put into this blog. I know how hard it is to have health issues I have them myself and also have a wonderfl husband. I have learned that you must take care of you first in order for every thing else to happen. I hope you feel better soon and don't forget to give a little love to yourself.

Debbie/Phx AZ

Lauri said...

oh no! GET BETTER!!!!!! Take care of yourself and everything else will come!! You know we all understand! (and you would tell us to all do the same thing!)

chrissg said...

Please take care of yourself. I will look forward to your future blogs but fully understand them not being as frequent. I hope you feel better soon!

Chookarooni said...

Mel,
your blog is always such a joy to visit - showed my hubby tonight - his comment - she's not a stamper - she is a true artist - huge compliment from a non crafter - anyway want to say - please take care of yourself and get better - we can be patient and wait until you are well - love your cards but you need your health to create them - get better - we'll be here waiting patiently!
Mary-Jane

Marilyn said...

Mel - this is not about us, but about taking care of yourself so that you can take care of those you love.

Take time off, go for a walk, read a good book or two and enjoy it all.

Maybe set a schedule for yourself - blog only on certain days, limit yourself to one project every week, take a particular day off per week to do a family activity, take a class at the local college just for fun (cooking classes are 1-2 nights and are wonderful), have a date night with DH, or just rent a movie/make popcorn and cuddle, etc...

Just do whatever it takes to heal yourself.

We will miss you, but we do understand your need for personal time and space.

By the way, it takes courage to tell others what the truth really is and then acting on it - you, Mel are very brave and we all love and appreciate you very much!

We'll be here whenever you need us, Marilyn

Deb Neerman said...

Oh gosh, Mel-a-Licious, I thought you were all better! This is terrible news ... you poor thang! Bloggin' is fun and all, but your health is w-a-y more important that blogging.

You're appreciated any time you post ... and even if you don't! So there! Take the week off and rest!

Love ya lots, Kiddo!

~Hugs, Deb

Debbie Fisher (debbiedee) said...

Mel, don't worry about it and just get well! I've been fighting pleurisy and lung junk since Sept. I now have to see a specialist next week. I understand how you feel.

Jessica Diedrich said...

I think this is a great decision. Honestly, I don't know HOW you do it. You put so much thought into everypost...not to mention I know what a pain it is just to UPLOAD to blogger some days LOL! I really hope you feel better, too...let me know if there's anything you need! Hugs!

neverenoughrubberstamps said...

What??? You're not Super Woman???? You are Human????
Welcome to our race! LOL

Ok Advice...
First of all, You and Your health is #1

2nd of all your Husband/Family should absolutely come before a bunch of people on a computer screen. Specially a good Husband.

Now, that being said..... and like I told you a while back in an email, You have an incredible and wonderful gift of talent Mel and you should use that God given gift! (always in moderation)

I think I can probably speak for everyone who has enjoyed your blog.... We are so thankful for what you have shared with us all. You are so unselfish! I personally have been so completely impressed by you.

You take all the time you need my friend. Post when you feel better and only if you feel you have time on your hands to spare. Then and only then will you get the true satisfaction of what you do.

We will miss you! Just know that we will still be here when you are ready to either return or to do the occasional post.

We love you Mel! Take care and get yourself well.

Oh and one more piece of advice if I may......
Love has a great healing effect!This has been proven!
So, Grab that supportive Husband of yours, curl up, have a talk, watch a good movie, dance, kiss, snuggle closely all night, and of course ....drink plenty of fluids to flush your system of that horrible infection.
Lung infections are not to be played with!!!!

Hugs and Warm Wishes,

Dorothy
Whitby, Ontario

Lynne Phelps said...

Mel,
You have already provided the blogosphere we all inhabit with an AMAZING body of work. Even if you never made another tutorial, I would continue to visit your blog to hear how you are doing. Every time I go back through your archives I find more projects I really want to try - chipboard embossing folders and grungeboard embossing folders are way at the top of my list. Thanks for your time, and I hope you GET WELL SOON!
I'll be praying for you and your family, Lynne

cal8007 said...

Mel,
thank you for letting us know of your condition. Please don't feel guilty if you can't post every day. I personally admire your talent and the fact that you do take the time to post such beautiful creations. Your health and your family come first. There's tons of blogs on the net, but not as nice as yours, that we can visit. Please take care of yourself. God bless,

Carmen

Kirsten Alicia said...

Dear Mel, you've been so brilliant these past months posting all your wonderful creations for us, but now you MUST take care of yourself. Your health must come first, so you do whatever it takes to get yourself healthy. We'll be here, keeping one eye on your blog & the other on our crafty stuff, lol! Sending you & Charles {{{{HUGS}}}}. Kirsten.

Jean Fitch from jlfstudio said...

Dear Mel,

You are loved unconditionally by all those who know you, view you, and who envy your artistic & blogging talents till we are totally green. Little or a lot we'll love whatever turns up whenever. Take good care of yourself, rest, relax and dwell in joy as much as possible. As everyone has already said we value you and want you to be happy and well. Our greedy, envious, loving you selves will still be here enjoying your archives whenever you post anything new.

Be well, be happy and keep on racking up those creative ideas for later use. - Jean

Nancy Jensen said...

Mel, you are such a sweetheart! I've been wondering how you manage everything. You have so many templates and tutorials on your blog and you are always so happy.... and have such amazing crafts.... well, it's not a wonder you need some time for YOU. PLEASE try to pamper yourself and get better. You and your family come first.

I love your blog and will be back anytime you post. If it's once a day or once a month.... I'll be here... or at least read it on feed. ;-) And do NOT feel guilty about not answering emails or posting awards. You are just too sweet to worry about other people's feelings but don't put that much pressure on yourself.

The only way I have found to keep up with my blog is to NEVER SLEEP.... NOT a good plan. DO NOT TRY IT AT HOME! hehe

(((hugs))) to you and hope you feel better soon.

Oh, and my cooking tips: hamburger helper, hot pockets, frozen dinners or frozen burritos, easy-mac (because mac & cheese is just takes too long - LOL! and my older kids can fix it themselves) spaghettios; fast, easy and semi-nutritious meals. Oh yeah, add a salad and you are set!

Robbie said...

I pray you can get control of your illness. There's nothing like feeling miserable and sick. Please take care of yourself...first! I love your notes and blog and will continue to visit you.

Take care!
Robbie

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear how ill you are, you are a legend in the stamping world and the most important thing is to get your health back

Olya Kopylova said...

Dear Mel,
Its a first time for me then i write to u.
i Just wanted to thank u for all that u made, for all lessons and template. u are amazing crafter! i love all your works!
i senserally hope that u will get well. Please, focus on your health and your family now. these are most important things in this world.
Take care, and keep smiling.
your real fan, Olya

Meredith said...

I didn't read ALL the other comments, so forgive me if this is a repeat... ;)

I have seen something on other blogs called a tip jar. You can post it on the side and I think people can leave donations through paypal. You should really consider this I think you deserve to be paid for all the hard work you do!!

Hope you feel better soon!

Sheila said...

Oh Mel........I had hoped to hear that you were now on the mend.
I am so sorry to hear that you are still suffering and am sending you a huge hug.

I love to visit your blog most days but I would rather know that you are taking care of yourself than struggling to do everything .

Being of the Witch and Cauldron school of cookery(according to my husband :)) I think it best I don't help you out with any recipes hunny......they may do more harm than good.

Love and hugs
Sheila-x-

Anonymous said...

Hi Mel -I have only recently found your brlliant blog.Such wonderful ideas and tutorials that you share with us all. You give me and others so much pleasure, but it must keep being a pleasure for you also. I am sure we will all be more than happy with whatever time you can give us. Health and family are more important. I look forward to hearing that you are well again.
Carol

Anna said...

Hey Mel, I LOVE your Blog, it's the Very 1st one I turn to every day. But it's VERY understandable that something has to give. Life gets in the way sometimes and it's OK. Time to breathe. Suggestions on how to balance - Pray, say "no" to even good things to save room for the best things and Pray some more. Works for me!

Hugs, Anna

Anonymous said...

Hi Mel, evendough I haven't reading your blog for too long, I'm very happy I found it. I check it everytime I need inspiration or a new template. Please take care of your health, which must be your priority. Get well soon. I'll sure include you in my prayers.

Flippinpest said...

Dont apologise for not being able to post. Family and health must come first. I have found your blog really helpful and any posts (even sporadic ones) are most appreciated

dragonflydreamer said...

You are so amazing and have shared so much that like jacqeline mentioned there is more than enough on your blog to keep us all busy for awhile. I love your blog, but your health is most important. Take care of yourself and feel better. I look forward to your business venture. Tell hubby thank you from me as I am not only a beginner to stamping, I live in the mountains and don't have any artistic friends or resources so your blog has inspired me and now I am going to begin using the beautiful and just like I am there with you tutorials to jump in and start stamping more and dreaming a tad less. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Years ago I got so sick from mold in our home (but didn't know the cause then) that I became bedridden. After moving, I slowly began to recover so I understand what you must be going through right now. Sending you some positive and healing vibes.

Monika/Buzsy said...

I hope you get better soon... and don't you worry about us crazy crafters... we will wait for you! Take care!

Shari said...

Mel - I seldom respond because I'm overwhelmed with all your projects. As Jacqueline above stated.."there is enough on there to keep most of us busy for ever" - I agree. Prayers coming your way

Elena said...

Mel! You need to take about yourself first... Your health is more important to us! We love you and you are always the Best!

Chrisd said...

Take care of yourself and know that we will be here whenever you are up to a visit to all of us.May God watch over you always.

Warm n Wonderful said...

Take care of yourself,Mel

Lydia Fiedler said...

Your posts are so wonderful. I don't mind when they come - I'm just happy when they do.

Yes - I have a tip - no open ended time. Set a timer for blogging for email for stamping, and when the timer goes off - quit. No guilt. :)

TFS

Anonymous said...

Mel,
Please take care of yourself, sending good vibes to you and prayers.
Love your blog, and we will all be waiting patiently.

Anonymous said...

Mel - Take care of yourself. I love your blog, your creativity and the tutorials. But your health and well being are so important. We all certainly understand.

Renee

Sharon said...

I enjoy your blog and will look forward to it whenever you feel like blogging. Your creativity is amazing. Take care of yourself and you are in my prayers.

Linda said...

Mel - Please take the time to care for yourself and heal. You are such an inspiration. We will be here for you when you are well again.

Michelle B. AKA JustPaintingAround said...

Your health is most important! Take care of yourself or the rest is not possible. If this is what you do when you are not feeling well, I can't image what you will do when you are better!

Anonymous said...

I just recently found your blog and have enjoyed your tutorials. Your health is #1 - please take care of yourself. I will miss you, but I would much rather have you be healthy! I'm stealing from Catherine and sending her great salutation - HEALING HUGS!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Mel...It's so easy to get caught up in this blogging world - I too am guilty of the self-imposed guilt. As I am feeling ever so guilty for being away from your blog as long as I have. Your family and your health should always come first - and we all understand and support that. And reading through the 100 comments before mine, it seems that there are 202 (mine too) arms ready to help you out if you need them!!
sending hugs... Jami

Rebecca said...

I don't know how ANY of you who blog do it! I'm amazed beyond belief how much all of you get done with family obligations, then sometimes filming or writing out step-by-step tutorials (let alone thinking up something to write about), creating (I know not every project is worthy of sharing on the first try ;-} ). It's time we all admitted we're "not Martha." Not even Martha does it all by herself, though we're lead to believe it's so. We all need to lighten up on ourselves, take care of what means the most to us, and let the other stuff fit in where it can. Get the rest you need and get well soon. We'll still be here.

rozwillster@gmail.com said...

Hey Mel...as everyone has said your health is the most important thing.
Sending healing thoughts your way
Take care
Roz