Sunday 30 May 2010


I hope your all having a much nice bank holiday weekend, weatherwise, than we are. It has been raining on and off all weekend so far, typical bank holiday weekend!

Well I finally have some news to share with you all. I mentioned it a fortnight ago, but I had since had second thoughts, the usual talking myself out of it, and then back into it again! does this sound familiar to any of you? But after much encouragement from friends and also my family I finally decided on Friday to go for it, and I signed a contract to open my own little crafting haven! Now , for those who know me well, you know I'm still very nervous about it all, worried sick I'll fail , but i gave myself a good talking to (oh yes , I am mad!).

I will be 45 on the 20th of this month, and I have spent my life doing absolutely nothingbasically because I have always been scared of failing, drawing attention to myself, or just general lack of self belief, but because of this, I'm left with a list as long as my arm (and longer) of what if's????

Life for me has been very difficult on and off for the last two and a half years, just when i thought things couldn't get worse, they did. Talk about being kicked when your down! I felt totally out of control of everything around me, I was not in a good place, and at the time thought it would never end. But, I was wrong, things slowly improved since about February and now we are at a stage, that I truly believed would never come ! But things happen for a reason and I know all these unfortunate times have made me stronger even though I didn't realize it at the time.

It's made me realize, certain things you can't control, and its pointless wasting energy and time on them, instead put that time and energy into something you can have an influence on. Life really is too short! So with giving myself a talking to (several times), I have decided to give it a go, yes of course I'm still worried sick I will fail, but if I don't try I will never know, and so what if I do fail. Yes of course , I'll feel bad about it, but at least there is not another "what if" to add to my already very long list.

My friends and family have all been so supportive and encouraging, so thank you all for that. I also wanted to thank Sarita, for her words of encouragement, I know she has also made a decision to go ahead with turning her fabulous designs into downloads and stamps. You will definitely be fine Sarita, you have an outstanding talent. I can't wait to see your next drawing!

So a little about my new venture. Don't get too excited ladies, its only a summerhouse, but its my summerhouse (have always wanted one in the garden), or at least while I pay for it! It is inside the premise of Bay Tree Farm Garden Centre . There are 5 similar units there, only 2 others occupied, a wool shop and a lovely glassware shop, but hopefully the other units will soon be taken, and they are planning to add more if it takes off. The units have been their since November so its a new venture and its still very quiet, but I believe that with better advertising it may take off. I have been to the garden centre at least 3 times since November, and did not realize they had the shopping village there!!!!

There is loads of things to sort out, but I am planning to have an official opening the weekend of my birthday , the 19th/20th June. There is so much to organize so i will probably be a little lapse with my blogging posts.

I really would appreciate any ideas you have for the shop. I want to offer so much more than just crafting stash, somewhere to come and share ideas, to learn new techniques etc, and to chat! I have lots to learn myself.

If there is anyone out there who ever visits my blog that lives nearby please can you email me , thank you.


My Little Shop - Jazzlins Designs



Crafting has been a bit lapse, but i have made these cards this week in between long sessions on the internet. Firstly a 50th Birthday Card for Kelly's Mum. An elegant card for an elegant lady happy birthday sweetie!



I just adore the Stampin Up Bird and branch post, perfect for a quick card embellishment.


A quick card used with an image that Jasmine had coloured in for me.


Have a fabulous weekend, look forward to catching up with you all again as soon as I can.

Hugs Linda x

51 comments:

Annie said...

Hi Linda! thank you for sharing your news and your story with us - and wishing you all the best in your new venture. I'm looking forward to reading updates in the weeks/months to come! And it's great you found the time to make cards too .. .. keep at it, you'll do fine.
enjoy the rest of the weekend.
hugs, annie x

angelwhispers said...

Good Luck Linda and you go for it!!!
Sounds so exciting and I bet lot's of us would feel the same it's so easy to stay in your comfort zone!!
I have everything crossed for you and hope to see picture and stories of you opening your dream!!

Love the cards but can't beleive you have made time to do them!!

Can't wait for an update Love Chanelle xx

Riet said...

What a beautiful cards Linda,i love your images and your papers.

Hugs Riet.xx

Mandy said...

Hun I am so pleased for you, well done for taking the plunge, wishing you lots of luck and love for your new adventure.
Your cards are gorgeous as always Linda
hugs Mandy xx

cornishmist - thats me ju x said...

Hi Linda, what fabulous news I wish you all the best in your new venture and look forward to hearing what linda does next lol but amongst all the stress enjoy yourself ju x

Handmade with Love said...

Congratulations Linda, go for your dream! I've sent you an e-mail I'm not far from you in Southend-on-Sea so let me know if I can help. I love your latest cards they are beautiful! Tracey x

Lilacanglia said...

I wish you all the luck, and it will be a success, I know you can do it,
Hugs
Angie

Sue said...

oh linda i am so very very happy fo you sweetie,if anybody deserves this it's YOU and i just know you will suceed.Anybody can do anything if they want to so iknow you will enjoy turning this into a great business because you love to create. I wish you every success sweetie,i just wish i lived nearer..sending you lots of love and hugs to a dear friend:)

Gorgeous cards too darl:)

sue
xx

Jan said...

With you all the way Linda... follow your dream

Helen Laurence said...

Hi honey, I am sooo pleased for you & also very jealous of your fabby garden house shop how exciting!!

You'll have to have a craft club & do some tutorials. I think you will make great success hun good for you for kicking yourself up the bum & going for it. At least you can have the imense pleasure in knowing you have given yourself a shot & doing something you love.
I am very proud of you as I know how difficult it is when you hit rock bottom to climb out.
You go girl!
Big huge congratulation & a smidge jealous hugs!!!
Helen x

Crafting Queen said...

Congratulations Linda and good luck with your new venture. Hope it all goes wonderfully well for you. Hugs Anesha

6 wacky women said...

Hi Linda
Wishing you every success with your new venture!! Not to worry....you will do great!
Your cards are beautiful too.

Karen x

jackiescrafts said...

Go for it Linda, I wish I lived nearer to you so I could come and visit you in your little shop. I'm sure you will do well, it sounds very exciting I wish you every success.
Your cards are lovely as always

Hugs Jackie x

Liza said...

All the best Linda with your new venture, I'm sure it will be a huge success. Fab cards too!

Liza x

Elaine said...

Wishing you lots of success in your new venture. I do believe that sometimes you have to hit the bottom before you can start the journey back up. I will keep my fingers crossed for you, and I wish you lots of luck. Here's to the good times ahead!
Love Elaine xx

Jen said...

Hi Linda,
I just love your summer house. I wish you lots of luck in your venture and only regret that it's too far for me to come and visit.
Gorgeous cards btw, I love the bird/branch one, very trendy!
Hugs
Jen x

Nannieflash said...

Hi Linda, wow well done love, you are now committed and you will be an outstanding success.
Fabulous cards to, with love and hugs Shirleyxxxxxxx

Michelle said...

Oh Linda that is WONDERFUL!! I'm so happy/excited/thrilled for you!! Reading your post made me think of me...I too worry to much and end up not doing what I want for fear of failing or not pleasing others. I need to work on this and am glad that you had several talks with yourself to get over this issue and open your own place - and it's BEAUTIFUL I might add. So inviting!! GOOD LUCK it will be wonderful :)

Tracy said...

Wow Linda, what a great venture, I'm wishing you lots of luck and I hope it really does work out for you love, you need something good to happen.
You do so many gorgeous creations, you'll do fine you know.
Happy crafting
Tracy x

Suzanne said...

Hi Linda well done and I wish you every sucsess. I am so envious of you being so brave and committed to living your dream and I wish everything you dream of comes true.. you deserve it.Sue :o)

Suzie McFloozy said...

Hi Linda well such a frank post that I had to take a deep breath before continuing at one point.
I wish you all the luck in the world flower - I'm sure it will be the begining of something fantastic.
I am in suffolk - not too far - so I might just come a visit you when you open up. Will you be selling online too ?
Good luck with all the organising you'll be a busy bee from now on - but enjoy it !
((((hugs)))) Suzie xx

wandykj said...

Linda-I'm soooo excited for you!!! We are so much alike, I always think the worse of things so I put them off, I know you'll do great, follow your dream & make it happen. If you ever need anything let me know. You're a fantastic friend!

~Hugs~
Wanda

Unknown said...

Wow Linda What fabulous news! I can certainly understand your fears and all the what ifs but definately think this is a wonderful opportunity. As for ideas for the shop - I would say showing people how to use products would be fab - lots of crafters buy stuff on impulse and then dont know what to do with it. If you have time and space for little make and takes I think folk would buy more. Having a website that includes a customer gallery would also be great. Wishing you all the best xx Janet

Lexxie said...

I am so so thrilled for you Linda, I know this is such a big step for you. Your little shop looks amazing, so cosy and welcoming.
Thank you so much for your kind words, it is scary starting a new venture, but it really is a case of nothing ventured nothing gained. What a fantastic new beginning Linda, I wish you every success, and will be in touch when my stamps are ready!
Love Sarita xx

nessy said...

oh linda how very exciting for you ~ what a wonderful plan for the future ~ my fingers /toes and everything is crossed for you ~ what a positive big step ~i am wishing you all the best and cannot wait for the next up date!!
biggest hugs
vanessa xx

Donna said...

Oh wow Linda, such exciting news for you, I am sooooo pleased for you and I'm sure your shop will be a huge success :) I live about an hours drive from Colchester and I would ove to come and visit you when you are open...I wish you all the luck in the world :) Donna x

Macpurp said...

good luck with your new venture! can't wait to hear all about it!

lots of love teen x

craftymum said...

Hi Linda
congrats on your new venture and I wish you all the best with it. I too have started a very, very small craft business. 2 weeks ago i started to sell Sizzix dies via the internet. I have sold 10 so far. I have found this a scary venture so I can imagine how you must be feeling.Looking forward to hear how you get on
Love sarah XXX

Tracey said...

Well Linda BIG congratulations on your new venture & wishing you all the luck in the world - I'm sure it will be a success. (When can I come & play lol)

Gorgeous cards as always. Hope you & your family are all well :)

Hugs
Tracey
xx

Marlene said...

A BIG congratulations here! Your shop looks adorable! You're absolutely right...life is short. Take it by the horns and do your thing! Wishing you much success!

cabio's craft corner said...

Lovely news and I am excited for you Linda :o) Very cute place!!
Thanks for sharing all these wonderful projects too. They are all looking so delightful and gorgeous!
Hugs,
Cabio

Emma said...

Wow such fantastic news Linda, I wish you all the luck in the world.
Such gorgeous cards as always since my last visit.
Hugs Emma x

Saxo Stamper said...

Hi Linda

Well congratulations to you and tonnes of good luck. I wish you so much success dear friend and I know you will make a real go of it.

I am sure it will be just perfect - card making afternoons and flyers to local card making groups and craft places should work a treat.

www.hypnosisaudio.com - Glenn Harrold, there are some super home hypnosis cd's or downloads for ipods - self esteem, financial success, confidence etc - they work wonders and are well worth the small investment. Just half an hour a day will put you on track feeling confident and inspired.

love K xxx

Shelly said...

Hi Linda! Well what can I say... I'm absolutely thrilled for you!!! When I read your post it really stuck a cord with me... I'm a bit of a 'what if' person too! When I moved to France I had that 'what if' feeling and have to say it was really difficult for a while but at least I had the guts to do it! You go for it girl, I think it's fantastic that you've had enough courage to take the plunge, I'm sure all will fall into place nicely! I don't know where the garden centre is (obviously living in France) but if it's anywhere within Kent or the North East I'd love to visit next time I'm back in the UK! Good Luck for the launch, it can only succeed for your Birthday! Sending you lots of hugs, Shelly ;)

Unknown said...

Good luck with your new venture - I am sure with hard work and determination it will succeed.

Joan Ottevanger said...

Hi Linda,
This super great news.
When I'm in the area I will come visit you.
Greetings Joan from the Netherlands

Germaine Ferrao -Lenn said...

Linda, Lovely news darling, I want to talk to you and will surely drive down to see you as soon as I can!! Bye for now! talk to you soon! HUgs always! G

Maria Matter said...

oh Linda, I'm so happy for you!!! Trying something new, big congratulations to you hun!!!
I wish you all the success in the world!!!
Hugs & blessings to you!!!!

Becky said...

wow Linda!! tracy told me about your new venture, i only wish i lived nearer as i'd be there everyday!! it looks like such a fab place and i'm sure with advertising in the local paper you'll get the word out there!! xx

Bubbles said...

Linda you are going to be just fine, you worry too much. You are such a lovely lady and I wish you so much success with your new venture, I have no doubt in my mind that you will not do well.
We have a set up like this not far from us, with a sugar craft, dolls houses, a cafe, hot tubs etc and it's always busy.
I think craft sessions are popular as you mentioned people like to learn new techniques especially newbies, and special offer promotions are always a big plus.
Big (((hugs))) to you all,
Joanne x

Gina said...

Oh wow Linda, I am so envious, you will do fabulous I am sure, all you need to do is be yourself and everyone will flock to see you and your gorgeous summer house, I can not wait to see it up and running, I just wish I lived closer to you, but I doubt you would get rid of me then LOL good luck hun I really do hope your dream comes true
Big hugs Gina xxx

Paula said...

Im so so proud of you Linda you will be absolutly fine i know you will.

Big Hugs Paula xxxx

Kathy said...

Congrats Linda!!! You sound alot like me but good for you and taking the chance!!!! I wish you all the success and luck in the world! Wish I could come and visit but it is a little bit of a jog for me being that I am in the US!! LOL
Can't wait to see the updates on your blog though!
:)Kathy

Sandra said...

Hi Linda....it's been awhile since i last visited your blog,but i'm happy to find out about your new venture...i would like to wish you all the best...my life's been abit like yours,full of what if's and alot of nothingness (don't think that's a word,but you know what i mean)...hope one day i'll be brave enough to do something with my life before it's too late,well done for taking the pludge :0)...

Your cards are beautiful,
Take care and once again all the best
San x

Powerful Search Engine said...

Hi Linda just catching up hun the shop looks perfect. Glad you are still getting a bit of card making in.Hugs Pascale

Cami said...

CONGRATULATIONS, LINDA!!! This is wonderful news and I wish you all the best in your new venture. You will be a success! Your talent and warm personality will draw many people to your shop. I can hardly wait to hear more news from you. I am so happy and proud of you my dear girl! I feel so giddy for you. Big Hugs, Cami

Steph said...

Have just read your post about your shop!!! How utterly amazing, Linda!! WOW WOW WOW!!!! I really admire you for going for it. I'd love to come down when I get the chance, do let me know the address. I'd love to work in a craft shop, let alone own one!!!!

Joey said...

Hiya Hunny

YIPPEE CONGRATULATIONS HUN!!! good for you I wish I had the guts to do it :O) you are gonna be a huge success!

Joey.xxx

Unknown said...

Hi Linda x Just been to your shop!!! and have become a follower of your blog as I was so impressed x smashing shop, lovely affordable prices, and thanks for your donations to my charity crafting x best of luck x Leigh x

The Archiving Angel said...

Hello~ I am new to your blog but I feel like I know you. I am in the same exact situation that you are in with a list a mile long (or longer) of things I wish or want to do. I was astounded as I read your post because I have been through some trying times & want so desperately to open up a craft haven of my own but am worried that I will fail. I too have been giving myself a talkin too but to no avail. I don't have as much support as you do so that is the one thing that has kept me from just going for it.
I wish you the absolute best! Even though I don't know you & am meeting you for the first time via this blog I feel a kinship through this love of papercrafting & blogging. The pics of the shop look fantastic so far. Your creations are truly beautiful so I know without a doubt that your shop is going to succeed.
Honestly, may God bless you & keep you always.
Thanks for inspiring me!
All the best & crafty goodness,
Sonia

Cheryl said...

Love your cards. Especially the one for Mum. That is gorgeous. Hugs Cheryl

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