Monday, February 11, 2013

I'm Back...

 
That was some blog break, huh? 
 
Nothing like leaving you hanging.  I apologize for that.  I needed time to be with my family, and honestly, I didn't realize I'd take such a long break once I decided to take one.  Every time I went to go back, I hesitated.  And I knew I wasn't ready.  I think I'm good now, ready to share my life and my insights and my crafty stuff.
 
I can't tell you how many people dropped me emails, sent me notes, crafty surprises, facebook messages, etc.  I am truly, truly touched.  After 7 years of doing scrapbook kits and this blog, I didn't expect many people would even notice a long break.  So thank you for asking and inquiring and caring about me and my family.
 
A little over a week ago, I held my father's hand as he passed away from this earthly life.  He had been in failing health for years, and it was a long goodbye.  Strange as it may seem, I am incredibly thankful for so much.  Thankful that we all had an awesome visit with him which included individual pictures with my children (and group photos too) one week before his passing.  Thankful for a support system that we trusted and leaned on during this time.  Thankful for friends and family and strangers who extended themselves in kindness in ways that I can't even wrap my head around yet.  Thankful for having an angel on my side who is looking out for me.  Thankful for having a father who loved me and parented me my whole life.  Thankful that he and my mom stuck by each other and left nothing unsaid.  Thankful I inherited a love of photography from him.  (You may remember this post about documenting the everyday stuff.)
 
I've missed you guys.  Missed blogging.  I can't remember the last time I had a break from anything crafty like this.  But it felt good.  Good to leave.  And now good to start again.  I hope you understand.
 
 
 I have been working on house projects.  More on that tomorrow.  So stay tuned.  Until then, enjoy this day.
 

8 comments:

Julie Bonner said...

So sorry about the passing of your father Trish . . . thinking of you :) Glad to see you posting again :)

erin said...

sorry for your loss. So glad you are back. One day at a time...

Anonymous said...

Very happy that you are back. Thank you for the beautiful story of your journey with your father. You were both so blessed. Eager to see what you will do next! Karen

Sherry said...

I've never ordered a kit due to financial constraints, but I've read here for a long time off and on. I knew you were on a break and would check back every once in a while to look for you.
This morning I read this post and was surprised how the tears sprung to my eyes. Not just because the loss of a loved one is always hard, but also because I realized that I had grown so fond of you through your posts. I always find myself feeling positive and inspired after reading here. It hurt me to know that you are grieving. What a wonderful man he is. Thanks for also reminding us to keep our memories documented. So sorry for your loss Trish. Sending prayers and thoughts your way.

Melanie said...

Thinking of you and your family. It's good to let go and take that break when you need to.

Tami said...

Love u Trish! So happy to see u back! :)

Chris K said...

So glad you are back to the bloc. I always look forward to your posts.

Chocolatier Roanne said...

Found your blog today and wow, I totally empathize with you. Reading your post reminded me of almost two years ago when I lost my grandma - we grew up with her and it was so deeply sad, but the time we got to spend and and the abundant loving memories of her helped easy the ache. I still miss her, but it is nice to be able to think about her and smile. I wish for you that your days of remembering and smiling come quickly.