Two years ago, I signed up for an amazing ride. I joined a fantastic new online scrapbooking store, forum & gallery called Scrapbook Essentials. Owned & managed by the wonderful Meg, it soon became a huge part of my life.
It was here that my scrapbooking really grew, and I made many new friends. I was inspired, encouraged and motivated. Eventually, I was given the amazing opportunity to join the Scrapbook Essentials Design Team. And I have to say, the last 6 months have been amazing. I have loved every minute of my time on Meg’s team. Her kits are always fabulous and the other DT members are beyond awesome.
On Thursday night, I received some sad news. Meg has made the gut-wrenchingly hard decision to close down the business. Scrapbook Essentials will cease trading on 31 May. I know this decision has been incredibly hard for her, but I understand completely and I support her 100%. At the end of the day, it all comes down to priorities. Meg is putting her 3 young children first, and that is definitely the right choice. I am in awe of Meg’s courage, and have nothing but admiration for her.
How do I feel? I actually felt pretty numb for the first 24 hours after Meg phoned me. I was mostly sad for her as I know how much she is hurting. Reality finally hit me last night, and I had a wee cry. I haven’t felt able to blog about it until now. I didn’t really know what to say.
While I am unbelievably sad that Scrapbook Essentials will no longer be part of my life, I have absolutely no regrets about jumping on board for this amazing ride. Even if I had known it would end like this, I still would have strapped myself in, with my crash helmet on.
I am grateful for the opportunity that Meg has given me to be on her team.
I am grateful for the wonderful friends I have made on the forum.
I am grateful that most of these friends have blogs, and I know we will keep in touch after the forum is gone.
The ride itself may be over, but the memories will last forever.
Meg, it’s been a absolute blast – the ride of a lifetime. And I’ll never forget it.
Amen to that.
By: Annelie Maddock on May 17, 2008
at 11:09 am
So very sad … which is a major understatement really … fresh tears … the SE forum has been amazing … another one that has truly enjoyed the ride.
By: Mrs Frizz on May 17, 2008
at 11:14 am
I’m sorry, Hannah. I know how much you have enjoyed this!
Good for Meg for putting her family first, though. I know you do the same
By: Angella on May 17, 2008
at 11:16 am
I agree with you Hannah, but I know that Megan R has something up her sleeve so hopefully we can still chat through that. As you said we mainly have blogs as well but for the most part the community forum has been a wonderful place to laugh and support each other. Hugs Hannah.
By: Janine on May 17, 2008
at 11:25 am
Its so incredible to think its been 2 years! I can honestly say its been a fab 2 years – what a great ride! Im glad most of us are bloggers and we wont lose touch.
By: nztreasure on May 17, 2008
at 12:34 pm
Thank you Hannah for your inspration, and I will continue to follow your blog.
A very tough decision for Meg, but one we all realise is the best one for her and her family.
I believe SE will live on in one form or another … will have to wait and see what Megan has planned
By: Mich on May 17, 2008
at 12:45 pm
Darn, everytime I read someone elses post my eyes start leaking again! Lucky most of us have blogs, and go Megan RF…
By: Trace on May 17, 2008
at 1:47 pm
Wow that sucks. I only found S.E recently. Hugs to everyone
By: queenbitch on May 17, 2008
at 1:52 pm
I agree that it’s really sad news!! It must have been a really hard decision to make! So pleased that I have most people on my blog list now so that at least we can all stay in touch
By: Shell on May 17, 2008
at 2:33 pm
I’m sad about SE shutting it’s doors too but know Meg has a lot on her shoulders. I’m absolutely shocked by the abruptness, never thought this would happen. Sad you won’t get to finish your DT stuff but I’m sure you will pull through and find something you like just as much
By: Christi on May 17, 2008
at 3:22 pm
It is very sad. I wondered if someone with an older family would take it over.
By: Penny on May 17, 2008
at 4:33 pm
cool tribute Hannah & you have done some cool stuff with SE too!
By: Lara on May 17, 2008
at 6:13 pm
The news left me in shock, but like you I think Meg is amazing for giving up something that is so successful in favour of her family. That takes guts in times where money often rules. I’m sure that we will all keep in touch via blogs and emails, but I hope there is another place to congregate and keep the “family” around.
By: scrappydo on May 17, 2008
at 6:42 pm
Well, I don’t know about scrapping, but I am sad for yours and everyone elses loss.
As one door closes another will open, goodluck Hannah!
By: Hay on May 17, 2008
at 8:32 pm
:big hugs: It is always sad to lose family, even if it is cyber family.
By: wildlonewolf on May 18, 2008
at 2:21 pm
Oh Hannah, I am sad for all of you but it sounds like it is the right decision for Meg.
It’s wonderful that most of you will be able to stay in touch via blogging.
What a wonderful post and tribute to your time on the team and to Meg!
By: Kami on May 20, 2008
at 4:57 am
No SE? i had no idea Meg was calling it a day, its understandable Meg needs to do what is best for her family, its just a shame she couldnt sell up and have someone else take the load from her.
A very fitting tribute Hannah
By: gypsykate on May 24, 2008
at 7:09 pm