A Message From the Heart <3
Hello lovely readers! This is crazy timing but better late then never, right? I never got deep at the New Year and shared how I was going to ring in 2014, my resolutions I was going to make (and probably break), or even what I got for Christmas. The problem is I have a hard time sharing tidbits about myself and honestly feel a bit like who cares, but all you guys are here for a reason and you faithfully come back, so even if 21 days late I feel the need to share a few thoughts I’ve had running through my head.
You may have noticed I’ve made a few tiny changes around the blog. I changed my tagline to “Designing a Lovely Life” because I want the blog to reflect more of real life, I’ve updated my Meet Virginia with a few things you didn’t know you wanted to know about me, and I’ve added a new Media Kit to my Sponsor section, for your viewing pleasure!
I’ve recently read posts from other lovely Canadian bloggers that really struck a cord Shannon at AKA Designs and Jennifer at Rambling Renovators both wrote New Year’s posts explaining what they need to change this year and how they are going to take back 2014 and make some much needed changes. And guess what? I need to do that too!
My life is crazy town. No really. I have a terrible habit of taking on too much, and an even worse habit of not being able to say no. I end up getting myself into situations like catering 3 events in one day, and stretching myself so far that my kids and husband get forgotten. So this year even if it means living in the poor house, I need have to take some time back. I’ve decided to cater a bit less, be more organized in blogging and only take on projects that are truly worth it. That being said, if you’re an advertiser reading this, I’m sorry but I can’t work for free, my time is valuable. I’m taking time to enjoy 2014!
I don’t often share too many details about what is going on in the Fynes palace because I’m a terrible writer and would rather let my projects do the talking, but I guess if you don’t like my awful writing skills, or my even worse grammar you would have left by now.
This year you might hear a bit more about me and my adventures.
Fynes Designs needs to spread its wings.
Maybe I didn’t write this post until now because I seriously considered throwing in the blogging towel. I love blogging, I love being inspired to create, meeting new friends and trying new things. Everyone always says find something you love, then find a way to make money doing it, I think I’m almost there. Closing up shop just wasn’t an option. I just need to make it work with my life, and that means sharing more of the real.
I truly LOVE everything about crafting and thrive on a good deal but we like to go, see, and do and I want you to follow along and share my experiences too! I live in one of the most beautiful places and I think its unfair not to let you on the inside and share what Canada has to offer. Don’t get me wrong I will certainly still be sharing loads of DIY, craft, and holiday projects because I just can’t resist!
Plus guess what? I cook! Not anything overly fancy but it keeps the catering clients coming back for more! I’m getting out my recipe box and will have a tasty nibble to share here and there! If you didn’t check out my Thai Nacho Dip or the Maple Brie Dip you should do that before you leave, easy and yummy!
I didn’t want to set a word for 2014 (since I obviously missed the trendy boat on that one), but just incase anyone cares, I’d have to say it would be ENJOY! I need to take the time to enjoy. Enjoy life, my kids, meals, outdoors, company and family, just plain enjoy each day to the fullest!
Maybe this post is coming to you today because I’m feeling a bit emotional (I rarely get up and need to get something off my chest) but last night I lost a very dear Aunt. My Dads sister was more of a Granny to me as a child than an Aunt. My Gram passed when I was very small and she certainly filled the void. She taught me to knit and was probably my first source of creativeness. I would stay with her often when my parents traveled, I loved her huge farm house, the way she had an electric blanket on every bed, how she just snickered when she caught us dipping our fingers in the brown sugar, and she had the most amazing dress up closet any kid had ever seen. She lived everyday to the fullest and didn’t let age limit her abilities. She wouldn’t hesitate to climb a cherry tree, mend a broken fence, or tend a garden big enough to feed the entire neighbourhood. She will be greatly missed by many.
What would you like to see in 2014? Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Any projects or burning questions, please don’t hesitate to ask! Please follow me on
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Virginia, your aunt was one of the loveliest ladies I have ever met! So warm and friendly! We are so sad for the entire family! My mom will miss her horribly as will your dad! Heaven had a rocking chair waiting for her!
Thanks for your kind words Ellen.
So sorry to heart about your aunt, Virginia. I look forward to seeing you grow in your blogging and enjoy life. Here’s to 2014! 🙂
Virginian…don’t ever say that you can’t write my friend. All you need to do is open your heart…and the words flow beautifully…thank you! I think as bloggers we’re all looking for that magic place where we can find balance, be happy…and make a little money on the side. I’m glad you’re doing a few adjustments and I’m sure they’ll be JUST PERFECT! I’m 100% behind you!! xo Colleen
Thank you for the positive words Colleen!
(HA…just saw the typo in your name! Woops!)
no worries, if thats the worst you got out of Virginia!
Great post Virginia, work life balance is so important. Spending time with family is one of the greatest things, it’s something I definitely need to do more of.
Very beautifully written Virginia. Thanks for the tears, I needed that <3
Your words are inspiring, Virginia, as are you! So sorry for your loss.
Beautifully written message. Very inspiring and heartfelt. Thinking of you lots. Xo
Please keep it real! 😉 Nothing is worse than reading posts and thinking someone’s life is perfect. If you spilled glitter and cried, tell us!. HUGS!
By the way, I think you write wonderfully.
Shirley was a very special friend. I’m sure that she was a wonderful Grammy/ aunt. She loved all of you kids. Her heart was as big as the ocean, and love poured out in waves. It is nice to think that she helped you in beginning your route to craftsville. God bless. Hold her tight in your heart, The picture is certainly one to be treasured. Success to you with this blog and all the other things that will come along this year.
So sorry to hear about your Aunt Shirley. She came from a generation where everyone had to be crafty and independent. It was the way of life. She learned well from her mother. I still have a pillow that your grandmother made for us.
This is a beautiful and heartfelt post Virginia…you certainly can write. I’m so sorry for the loss of your Aunt…she sounded like such a positive influence in your life, and deeply loved. xoxo
Thanks for sharing Virginia. Will miss Shirley as well. It was nice to hear more stories of the difference she made in the lives of those around her.
I am so sorry to read of your loss. I’m sure your Aunt would be proud of your resolutions. Enjoy is a great motto. Life is short. I have made a commitment to spending more quality time with my Family. We’re only 3 weeks into 2014 and I’m loving it.
Besos, Sarah
Blogger at Journeys of The Zoo
I’m so sorry for the loss of your Aunt. Never be afraid to show people what goes on behind the scenes. That’s what I value most about bloggers, when they tear down the walls of their computer pages and let us inside their lives. Definitely ENJOY! I said that same thing. If it becomes a chore, it stops. That includes blogging.
I’m very sorry to hear about your loss. Your blog is definitely an inspiration, and I look forward to continuing to read it in the new year.
Opening up can be scary, but these are the posts I enjoy reading the most. So glad you’ve decided not to throw in the towel- I’m just getting to know you and your lovely blog! Get back to loving what you do and sharing when you’re inspired. So sorry to hear about your dear Aunt. xx, Shauna
To my best friend;….If I was into the e-world, your blog would be my home page, everything I love about the outdoors would simply be a bookmark, and who knows, with my new i-pad, it is possible that even I, Justin Fynes, would become a daily traveller of the internet highway, be patient.
The odd time that I climb up onto the internet, and visit your blog, I quickly end up back in that place where I was when we met, attracted to everything about you. Watching your blog transform into a collage of diary, slash design, is very interesting, to say the least. I know you well, and following this new theme, “enjoy” has got my attention.
Let’s miss Aunt Shirley together.
P.S.
Get an App for mobile phones, so we can all follow you into 2014 at the tap of a? tap of an App….sorry…….Love you
Virginia, you are one of the sweetest, most genuine people I am lucky enough to call my friend! I hope 2014 is full of the enjoyment you seek. You deserve it!
Oh Virginia, I’m so sorry about the loss of your aunt.
I love the image you chose there: don’t quit your day dream.
How true is that?
I love these kinds of posts, and I think that great things are waiting for you this year!
Don’t you give up girly ! You have a team of us cheering you on.
Where are we? Right behind you… right where we have always been.
Lynne xxoo
The blogger support I’ve received has been amazing! Thanks so much Lynne xo!
Oh Virginia. What a lovely heartfelt post! xo, S