So yesterday I began the process of moving stuff out of my booth.
It's bittersweet, but I'm confident that it's the right decision.
Still...
I hate feeling like a quitter.
Not a failure, mind you.
But a quitter.
Before buying the new house...and getting ready to move...
and working a good bit more at the hospital...
and about a million other things...
and about a million other things...
I was able to devote time to keeping my booth fresh,
and to re-stocking and re-foofing and all that.
and to re-stocking and re-foofing and all that.
And my monthly check from the mall reflected that effort, absolutely.
But since about late July, the booth has been neglected,
another casualty in my search for creative fulfillment.
In my blogging journey of self-discovery,
more than a few identities lie by the wayside.
Shop Owner
Booth Owner
Mixed Media Artist...
Tried on and discarded like so many pairs of shoes.
Booth Owner
Mixed Media Artist...
Tried on and discarded like so many pairs of shoes.
But now?
I realize now where my dreams lie,
and feel not only confident
but invigorated and excited at what lies ahead.
and feel not only confident
but invigorated and excited at what lies ahead.
The best part?
You are all coming with me!
Happy, Happy Thursday!
BIG HUGS! You have thought it thru and made a decision that although you may be a little sad about it, you will look back on this decision and realize that it was the right one! Love you bunches dear Anne! I bet you will find lots of uses for your booth goodies. HUGS!
ReplyDeleteI am *in love* with that first pic.. kinda' represents delicate feelings. It's always tough and bittersweet closing the door on something we loved and have invested our heart and time to; even if it's temporary. Over 5 years ago, I couldn't believe I was going to be working my last day as an esthetician before being a SAHM. It turns out one of the last days I was schuduled to work, my water broke and I had to go to the hospital that morning - so I never really got to "close that door" officially. But, it's led me to exploring new careers and going back to school for a degree - so true about when they say it's never too late. All this to say, this is the ladder of life and I believe you are movin' on up girl!
ReplyDeleteLara xx
Oh, sweetie, I know how difficult it is to close the door on something you loved and worked so hard to make successful. Bittersweet is the perfect word to describe this journey in your life because even though you might be a bit sad, I have no doubt your next adventure will be just as rewarding and exciting.
ReplyDeleteAnd by the way, you are most definatly NOT a quitter. I'm proud of you for recognizing what needs to be done, and following through with it.
So what's next????
Not quitting, Anne...evolving, learning, and moving on to life's next adventure! Can't wait to see where it takes you! XO
ReplyDeleteHow nice that you're in a position to make these decisions according to what's right for you. For some of us it's not as easy for us to move on -- even when we know it's the right thing for us. Keep life interesting! Jan
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to sharing the transition with you. Best of luck- you really don't need it. You know that when one door closes another opens, and there are always the windows too. Change is just another way of looking at opportunity.
ReplyDeleteYou aren't quitting; you're just headed in a new direction. Enjoy the journey :D
ReplyDeleteSmiles,
Teresa
I am sad for you but I soooo know how hard it is. When I left my 14 year long job at the hospital to work for an Antique Mall...Never in my wildest dreams would I think I would become the General Manager of all the operations. I find myself ALOT lately struggling with the time I don't have to get it all done! 5 booths, General Manager of one of the largest mall in the south, staff, vendors, customers, husband, house, yard & 5 animals. I find myself today thinking I am going to have to hire someone to come clean my house for the holidays( I have always cleaned my own darn house!!) but here I am on my day off...had to go work my other booths, heck by the time I cook dinner tonight I will be almost dead. I envy you, your life will be fun again, enjoy your wonderful house. For me I am into deep to turn back,I may give up some booths at some point...but that is what I was saying 6 monbths ago! Can't wait to see all the pics of your nes journey and your wonderful new hous! OMG... this is the longest post I have ever written!! You will have to give me a ring sometime so we can chat! Bigs hugs, Janna
ReplyDeleteanne, dont look at it as quitting. look at it as you finished another part of the journey. :)
ReplyDeletei find myself doing the same things i have worked( as a nurse), sold crafts, tried my hand at running a booth and still trying to keep my home organized- well, at least not chaotic. lol
sometimes i wish there were 3 of me; the employee, the homemaker and the person who loves runing a booth ( and decorating). maybe later on you can go back to the booth. just know that along the way , you have gained more knowledge, more insight and grew to the person you are.
Oh little Annie! I'm sorry you're sad. But you're not a quitter! You're just going down another road!! What ever you do - you'll do it well and go far!! Change just means your moving forward!
ReplyDeleteYou are a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
I'm always very understanding when some of my really good dealers need to leave. But what I've learned from experience, I not only tell my good ones that they are welcome back, and some of them actually return when their lives are a little less hectic! You are one person that can only do so much. I have to remind myself of that daily, but it is very, very true!
ReplyDeleteTake care, Sue
Hi Anne, I totally understand about not having enough time to do everything that you want too, but at least you sound confident in what you want to do now... I can't wait to hear what your exciting venture is going to be, and I'm so excited that we get to come along!!!
ReplyDeletehugs~~~ Daphne
Anne, I forgot to tell you I just love the French chair, it's gorgeous!!!
ReplyDeleteDaphne
I totally understand how you feel. I too had a booth for a few years but just like you it started to become neglected with so many other things going on in my life, selling on ebay, sewing, looking after the family. I think life is a series of chapters and you never know what the next chapter is going to read. Who knows one day I or even you will have another booth down the road or maybe something even better.. take care, Maryann
ReplyDeleteBiggg hugs for you darling......love you......Ria...
ReplyDeleteOnward and Upward my dear...change is good!
ReplyDeleteKat :)
Let us Ride!
ReplyDeleteI am sooo with you...transitions are are never easy, but as I told myself when I closed up my space, there will always be stuff to buy and stuff to sell if you ever find yourself missing it! Glad you are following your dreams~ and sharing them with us!
ReplyDelete:)Heidi
Hi Anne,
ReplyDeleteOf course, we're all coming with you!
We all understand. Been there and most likely, will be there again.
You're a trooper (and a half!).
xo~Tracie
I can't wait to see the places you will go! You are one talented lady! ;)
ReplyDeleteThat's the way to look at it!!! Keep your head high ~ Your not a quitter - your just starting a new journey.
ReplyDelete~*~*The best is yet to come!!! :) Hugs,Rachel~*~*
ReplyDeleteYour posts always bring a smile to my face! Changing/ tweaking/ reworking is a part of life, that's what makes the journey so fantastic!! I'm happy to be along for the ride with you :)
ReplyDeletelooking forward to the journey.
ReplyDeleteHi Anne-
ReplyDeleteWhen you close one door another fabulous door will open for you! I'm excited for you as you begin your new journey!
XO
Kristin
Things have seasons, that's ok! xx
ReplyDeleteYa know, I've learned over the years that there are different types of artists out there. Many can find their niche and stick with it for eons. Others (like myself) like to dabble in different things until they've run their course, then change directions. I don't see that as quitting. I see it as living life. Trying stuff and enjoying the ride for abit...they onto something else. Not a ding dang thing wrong with that IMO.
ReplyDeleteYou do what makes you happy...follow your passions. Just don't every say *this* is it. 'Cause it won't be. It will be *it* for this season. No regrets Girl. Do your thang.
Anne... I'm closing my booth at the end of the year... much of the same reasons as you... time changes all things... take care... live, laugh... love! hugs. Dixie
ReplyDeleteWhen it's time to move on, I think your little inner voice will tell you. There are no accidents and you are listening. Move forward and take with you what you need on your journey towards what lays ahead. I am happy for you and can't wait to see where we are headed, Char
ReplyDeleteDon't be sad! One door closes and a better one opens! Your on your way girl!
ReplyDeleteTheresa
aka:TOT
Hello Anne... you are such an amazing woman, I don't know how you do it all... I am certain you made your right decision... I can just "hear" it in your voice!... and I am so excited you are taking us all with you on your enchanted journey! Did I read somewhere you are re~opening an online boutique? I am fairly new to your blog and was not able to visit your shop ever... that is exciting too! Thank you for your visit to my Veterans Day post today, your kind comments mean alot of me... I am one who believes there is a reason for everything, and I think you have thought long and hard before making your decision... plus, you have your beautiful new litle farmhouse to share with us as well... xoxo Julie Marie
ReplyDeleteYour kind comments mean alot "to" me not "of" me, sorry, I type really fast and need to proofread my comments better! xoxo Julie Marie
ReplyDeleteI SO agree with everyone...you are moving forward, up, evolving {aren't we all wise?!}.
ReplyDeleteI wish you the best in all you do!
XO,
Jane
Each experience and adventure gives us strength to move forward and enjoy something new. You'll be just fine and fabulous!
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking us along!
I don't think you're quitting - I think you're writing your book. And... every good book has twists and turns - ups and downs - heartache and unspeakable joy... a crazy number of chapters.
ReplyDeleteyour book is a thriller... I can't wait to continue reading it (and looking at the pictures...).
now? you're just starting your next chapter...
xoxoxoxo
robelyn
Hey there sweet girl,
ReplyDeleteI know it's bitter sweet, there is just no getting around that. But you are most certainly not a quitter. A changer...maybe, but a quitter, never!
Being a CHANGER is a blessing in life. Being able to change as the times do, being able to try on a new hat & change who you are, being able to change your point of view, being able to look at your life & change the things that no longer fit the you of today, simply being able to change your opinion is a gift. Change is good, change is freeing, it can be bittersweet, but it has nothin to do with quitting.
One of my favorite quotes is from Benjamine Button & is on my side bar. The very last thing he says is..."I hope you have the strength to start all over again!" You're daring to see your life in a different light & that to me is BRAVE!
Smiles,
Susie
Do we start the journey today?! Nooooooo! I leave for the U.K. at the weekend and won't be back for two weeks. Please keep a seat open for me!
ReplyDeletei'm here to support you Anne! to me, you are just living your life...and it's so good for people to have change!!!
ReplyDeletexo+blessings,
Anne Marie
You know they say we change our career 7 times in life. 7 times!! Don't ever feel like a quitter! Your heart knows what's right! You will now have the opportunity to pour your heart, your soul, your creativity, and your time into your true passion!! I am proud of you!!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I figured you were waaaaaay younger than me!!! You are looking good girl!!
Hugs
Polly
You're not a quitter but I totally can relate in some respects. I want so badly to start the next chapter in my life but that means giving up i.e. "quitting" too. It's a tough decision but sometimes we have to write our next chapter and leave behind a former self/job/project.
ReplyDeleteJeanine
You belong behind a camera, not a store front.
ReplyDeleteI'm permanently "along for the ride"!
ReplyDeletelove you,
D
Hi Anne,
ReplyDeleteGrowing, changing and evolving is what life is all about. You are just expanding your horizons and moving on to new adventures.
Glad we are along for the ride!
hugs
Sissie
I think saying goodbye to anything is hard. It was a chapter of your life. But I'm sure that you are NOT a quitter. You are moving on to bigger and better things:)
ReplyDeleteYou are amazing Anne...honey,always follow your heart and your dreams...you won't regret it :)
ReplyDeleteI'll be looking forward to seeing what's up your sleeve next...something tells me it might have something to do with that gorgeous farmhouse y'all got?! I'll be looking forward to seeing more posts and pics of it :)
Thinking of you and hope you have a great weekend...
Big Hugs,
Queenie
Anne, you have to take time to breathe and be quiet too. I'm reading a really good book - it's not at all what I expected when I saw the title. And it's all about taking the time to rest, renew, and listen on a regular basis. It's Sabbath by Wayne Muller - you might want to check it out. It's one of those books that you don't want to lend to anyone because you find yourself marking pages to re-read. As someone else said - it isn't quitting - it's moving on to another part of your life's journey. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteI wish you well on your journey! I am new to your blog. About a month now and really enjoy your honesty. It's refreshing.
ReplyDeleteA booth is a lot of work and choosing to not do it is far from failure. Realizing your talents are spent elsewhere that is a choice..
Best wishes to you!
Not quitting..evolving. So glad you are feeling excited about your new adventure. We can't wait to follow along.
ReplyDeleteI know whatever you do, you will do it well. You have a wonderful heart and it shows in all of your posts. When I think of you, I think not only of your talent, but of that. I remember the loving post and prayer request you made for your friend who had been killed at Christmastime. It showed that loving heart so well. You aren't a quitter, but you are a "sharer"...of your life and your sweet heart :-)
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Marcia
Let's just see what Mr. Webster says about a quitter...hmmm?
ReplyDelete1. gives up easily...no, you didn't do that.
2. deserter.....no again, you didn't do that.
3. shirker...full time job, booth, blogging...nope not that either.
I guess what I'm saying is that it's like those shoes you've been trying on. After you get them home, some may pinch your toes, some make your feet smell bad...but then you find that perfect pair that are oh so comfortable and you wish you had bought every color they came in. I'm hoping you go back and get every shade available for your next journey.
Debbie
You are no quitter my friend. You are just closing one chapter of your life to start a new one. There is no quitting involved, just changes in direction. You are charting your own course for happiness and doing what makes you happy. Sounds more like a winner to me!!!!
ReplyDeleteNope. Not a quitter. Just a "transitioner"! lol!
ReplyDeleteYup. We're right there with ya, sweets - and lifting you up and over the bumps in the road if you come across any. :)
xoxo laurie
Anne, change can be a good thing. Don't look at this as quitting, but a new chapter in your life. We are not SuperWomen, so I am glad that you realized that you can't do it all and step back and take some time for yourself and your new house. There will be time later to go back to your booth if you so desire. Enjoy your "free" time and make the most of it. Love & blessings from NC!
ReplyDeleteDarn decisions! Sometimes there no fun! Sounds like a new adventure awaits you!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth
Hey girl, just look at all the things you have done, and be proud of them. But, change is the spice of life, keeps it exciting and fresh, and we all need to move on to new things occasionally to keep our minds ticking and our hands creating. And when too many things demand your time, then something has to be left behind, without regets, but with fond memories.
ReplyDeleteJust think...if a person never quit anything, how would one start a new adventure or start something fresh. I definitely believe that you (anyone) need to know you can quit.
ReplyDeleteAnne, I wonder if the kindness and loyalty of your caring heart maybe feels like you are letting down the owners of the mall a bit? That part of "moving on" can be hard when you are someone who cares about the feelings of others. But a quitter? No! All your other pursuits have been necessary stepping stones that are leading you down the path of becoming all you were meant to be... Xo, Sue
ReplyDeletewe should all be so lucky to figure our what our dreams are! consider yourself blessed! btw...i'm buckled up and ready for the ride!
ReplyDeleteGiddy up!
ReplyDeleteHi Anne,
ReplyDeleteDo you have enough seating for us all to come along on the ride???? I guess I could just use my broom.....whoa, I mean....keep sitting her at my computer where my ass is getting bigger by the second. I think I'll just stay seated here cuz it looks like you're heading for a wild, fun ride and I'm gonna' need to hang onto my support bars. I'll definately be following along dear lady.......best of luck to you.
Hugs,
Meri
Hi Anne, I am confident that you will be succesful in whatever you do, and where ever you go, you have the drive, the ambition and the dreams, so go and get 'em!! And I wouldn't say you are a quitter, you just know when the time is right to move on...for other things, that doesn't mean you are a quitter, it just means you strive for more...xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteHi Anne~ You know, I thik we've all been there in one form or another. Once we decide what really gets our engines revving, we have to leave our comfy corners. I have faith in all you do and am just so happy we get to tag along on your journey. How's about a hint;) Best of luck to you sweet pea.
ReplyDeleteHi Anne,
ReplyDeleteYou are just going to a new season of your life. Without changes we stagnate! You go forth and conquer your new season!
Blessings,
Shelley
Hello sweet Anne.....you had a beautiful spot.....right at the foot of the stairs....I can see it in my minds eye....even today.....but when one door closes another one opens....and it appears you are doing just that.
ReplyDeleteGood luck to you,
Jo
i can totally understand, you just need to find your fit. you will, i'm sure of it! enjoy the weekend. hugs, susan
ReplyDeleteYou go girl and don't look back. Whatever you decide to do I know it will be right for you. Glad your bringing us along.
ReplyDeleteLove
Maggie
Hi Anne,
ReplyDeleteAs they say one door closes and another one opens!
You have made the right decision and can always go back at a later time.
Love all the beautiful photos you have shared and how sweet is the big old suitcase of boot lasts.
Look forward to coming along with you and seeing what you are up to next.
Happy weekend
Hugs
Carolyn
Let the new phase begin Anne! I really like how you are acknowledging the bittersweetness of the transition though. (I'm one of those "I need closure" types.) I raise my glass to you as it sounds like this endeavor served you well and you're ready for the next, dearest Anne! xoxo ~Lili
ReplyDeleteIt's hard, I know from experience! I admire you for knowing what it is you're going to do and thank YOU for taking us all along on your journey! Keep On, Keeping On! Hugs, Debbie @ Cottage Hann~Me~Downs
ReplyDeleteoh, I know how that feels, but, I know you will be happy with your desicion....too many other new adventures!
ReplyDeleteHi Anne, What a beautiful post. You share your heart so well. Don't call yourself a quitter...you're not one. I believe we're supposed to go down many paths in life and this is a new one for you. How stale life would be if we didn't try new things and go new directions every once and awhile. Enjoy your new journey and be sure to share every last detail with us.
ReplyDeleteLove and Blessings,
Valerie
Hi Anne, you bet, we're going with you to the next stage. I'm so sorry that didn't work out for you, but great things are to come. Hugs, Riki
ReplyDeleteOh Anne, you're not a quitter. Sometimes to open one door, you just need to close another. It is going to be great.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes ♥ Tricia
Hi Anne-wow you have a lot of comments! you are loved, girl! I have a booth in a co-op also and I know what you mean. I neglect it all the time. and my checks reflect it. sometimes we try to spread ourselves too thin. but also you are moving on and that is not being a quitter. you have found a different passion in a different direction and that is never a bad thing! can't wait to go on the journey with you...and as I say all the time the word "bittersweet" is such a great word. It captures so much of what we feel.
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
....And I'm so proud to
ReplyDeletebe along for the journey.
You have so many exciting
things to look forward to,
Anne! The best is yet to be.
xx Suzanne
Definitely not a failure. Not even a quiter, but a beginner!
ReplyDeleteI am excited to see where you go next. I'll be there on the journey, cheering you on!
I bet that really was a hard decision! I think it is great to try different things along this journey! And I know that where you land...will be amazing! Gotta run...Rocco is getting himself food since I haven't really fed him much today :)
ReplyDeleteDid Moses "quit" being an Egyptian? Did Peter "quit" being a fisherman? Na!!! You are being called to somewhere new, and it's good that you're following your heart. When we are set on growing, and can't because we aren't able to "let go" of something we started... then we're quitting. Keep growing!
ReplyDelete{Hugs}
Good luck to you!
ReplyDeleteNo, certainly no quitter my sweet friend. Sending all my best wishes that all your dreams come true.
ReplyDeletehugs
Anne, you are NOT a quitter. You realized that this is not for you right now. That makes perfect sense to me . i owned a gift shop and cloaed it when I realized it was taking MUCH too much time away from my family, it was hard . but when It was closed I felt so much happier. I then started a soy candle company and the business gre so rapidly that I sold it because of the same reasons. My boys are all grown now and I am itching to start another business. It is a different time in my life and I can spend more time devoted to something- although I am not 100 percent sure what I want to be when I grow up. ( : But , I understand the feeling .
ReplyDeleteHave a pretty day!
Kristin
hang in there anne!! i have to reinvent myself all the time with 2 kids in tow, a husband that deploys every 2 years or so and a move over and over again!!! right when i get the hang of something, i have to leave it behind and move onto the next....over and over again. it's tough, but i keep finding new things i love out of the process...even thru the constant thoughts that i'm not making any progress and i'm going nowhere. i know i am going somewhere and you are too. at least we've both had the chance to try stuff and say we did it. that is something!! you are awesome and talented and maybe you can do more shows or concentrate on photography more or whatever. closing the booth will open up more time for something else. i'm with you though...it is so bittersweet. i've felt that way many time.
ReplyDeletegood luck!!! you inspire me.
sue
Can't wait to see where this leads you...your're such an inspiration!!
ReplyDeleteOh Anne, this will be a new adventure, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE don't feel like a quitter! That would mean I was the biggest loser ever. ha-ha! No, I'm not moving out of my space but there have been times I've had to just realize that I can't do it all and as much as I didn't want to, I had to give something up. Don't worry, the Lord will bring you to something better for His glory.
ReplyDeleteThere are blessings to come my dear!
Missy