Bits, Bytes, and Pieces
Hey friends—just checking in with another round of Bits, Bytes, and Pieces from my world. It’s been a minute, and if you’re wondering what’s going on behind the curtain, well… let’s just say there are plenty of bytes flying around.
We’ve officially welcomed Val from Little Butterfly Wings back as a Resident Designer—if you saw the newsletter, you already know how happy we are to have her home again. It’s been a wonderful bright spot in the midst of everything else.
National Scrapbooking Day weekend was another high point. The forums were lively, the gallery was hopping, and the chats were buzzing with that special kind of TLP energy. I loved seeing so many of you pop in—and yes, I know we all have profile pics, but there’s something about actually seeing each other that just hits differently. Thank you to everyone who joined in and helped make it a weekend to remember.
???? Store Update
Since then, I’ve been a little quiet on the community side, but trust me—I’ve been busy. The new store launch is coming together, and Phase One is just about ready to roll. This first stage is focused on getting our core shop functionality in place so we can finally retire the aging system that’s carried us further than it probably should have.
We know a few features—like wish lists—won’t be available right away, and that’s been a pain point for some of you. It’s on our list, and we’re keeping track of those priorities as we move into the next phase. Preventing accidental duplicate purchases is also on that list. Just know, these items are on the radar.
I also want to say thank you to those of you who’ve been helping others navigate the transition with tips and tricks. Watching the community step up like that reminds me why this place is so special. Change isn’t easy—but you’ve shown what it looks like to meet it with kindness and creativity.
Once Phase One wraps, the next development team is already briefed and ready to jump in and keep the momentum going. They’re fully looped in on where things stand and are prepped to pick things up without missing a beat.
???? Behind the Screens (Sort of)
Many of you think of me as pretty organized—and most days, I’d agree. But there are a select few (you know who you are) who might gently disagree. Especially when it comes to putting my thoughts on paper for this store migration. Let’s just say… I think in spiderwebs.
I was going to share a photo of my current command station—laptop, desktop, tablet, sticky notes in full rebellion—but honestly, it’s a bit much. So instead, here’s a throwback to a tidier moment. A time when the lighting was better, the workspace was calmer, and I wasn’t juggling twelve open tabs in three dimensions.
☀️ Bits of Real Life
Outside of tech land, we’re wrapping up the school year here. One kiddo just completed his first full year of college (how?!), and another is officially heading into junior year of high school. Somehow, time keeps doing its thing whether I’m ready or not.
Summer plans are quietly in motion. I’m keeping them under wraps for now, but I’m looking forward to stepping away from the screen a bit and soaking up some much-needed sunshine and rest.
We’re also brainstorming a few fun things for the community over the summer. Nothing official just yet, but there are ideas percolating—and once they’re ready, you’ll be the first to know.
That’s it for now—a little store, a little life, and a whole lot of gratitude.
Thanks for sticking with me through this wild ride.
xx-Esther
