Updates and reflecting!

Hello crafty friends! 

As you may know, 2018 was the year of big changes for me. After 25 plus years I hung my coat up as a direct sales demonstrator and coach.  It's been very difficult to say the least. My identity was shaken a bit. I am still by no means healed from the disappointment (daily I work hard on finding myself again). For me the hardest blow was losing a team of coaches who became like family to me.  At one point we had a team of over 400 coaches, when the company closed I had 240 or so coaches still on our team.  The company I was with spiraled over a course of nearly two years.  While I knew teams and sales were shrinking, I was not prepared for the HUGE announcement that they would no longer continue on as direct sales company.  I held one of the highest titles, walked the stage for several accomplishments (not on my own successes, but the success of our team) and earned incentive trips. I never ONCE took for granted how truly I was blessed to be on one of the most loving and caring teams there was. Team Pen Pals shined. Fast forward to today and here I sit in my studio reflecting on what's next for me. 

Because I was in direct sales for so long and always loyal to the company I lost track of all the wonderful products out there. Who knew the advancements that took place?  I must admit I have admired a company Altenew for a very long time,  but felt if I stared too long I would feel guilty for cheating on my company. Ha. Altenew has everything I love-- all things flowers and all things to color. While I have enjoyed trying other products and techniques, I always fall back on where my heart truly lays, COLORING. Today, while browsing Altenew's website I stumbled across a program that allows you to become a certified educator.  Yes, I applied and hope to be accepted.  My education as a Copic Instructor and my many experiences on design teams would allow me to fit right in.  Please say a little prayer for me that I am accepted.  Anyhow, 

2019 looks to be promising for me and my craft.  

Blessings, Joy & Peace,

​Christine