Just Jaimee - February 2017 - Storyteller:
https://the-lilypad.com/store/Storyteller-2017-February-Digital-Scrapbook-Kit.html
Journaling:
I discovered Sissy Sparrows, the twin Aussie designers, at Scrapbook Graphics in 2013. They introduced me to art journaling. They were fun, they were wild, they were so talented. I followed them from Scrapbook Graphics to their own shop and ultimately to The LilyPad. While they quit designing mid-2015, by that time, I had found my tribe over at TLP.
You know you fit in when you know others by their given name, rather than by their user name. You know what part of the world they live in. You recognize everyone’s family through their posts. And they know you as well. First names only, please! In 2015, I was getting my feet wet at TLP. I participated in Sissy Sparrows’ challenges, the infamous Cock & Bull series and later Imitate & Stimulate. SS encouraged us to join in on Jen Evangeline’s artist trading card swaps that were going on in 2015. I took my stash of supplies to work with me to create mini personalized pieces of art that Jen would receive via the postal service. She would then divide and distribute again to all of the participants that month. It was truly exciting to receive that package and I thank her for her efforts.
In 2019, John and I had the pleasure of meeting Patsy (from TLP) & Jim over an extended brunch. They were on their way home from Wisconsin, knew that they would be in our general vicinity, so we agreed to meet at a restaurant not too far from the expressway. So much fun, the guys talked for hours, we women talked for hours. John & I met up with them again in 2021 and 2022. Thank you Covid for not allowing us to meet up in 2020. As you can tell from this snapshot, we are having a great time.
And then there is Cheryl, the person who would always post kind comments in my gallery. While she has moved on, our friendship continues. A few months after John passed away, I received a package from Amazon. In it was a Morse code bracelet made of hematite and black cord. In code, the bracelet reads “Strong and Fearless”. I put it on immediately and continue to wear it 24/7. I only take it off when I shower and for working outdoors using machinery. What is amazing to me is how she was able to track down my address. We were listed in the yellow pages under John’s home business. But she found me, and I am forever grateful for her thoughtfulness.
When John passed away, I was amazed at the outpouring of love and virtual hugs from so many TLP users. Yes, virtual hugs do count. I received personal messages. They reached out to me via Facebook. Some chose to post onto John’s memorial wall. I received photographs. To this day, people will take a moment to ask how I am doing, to give me more virtual hugs. The LilyPad truly is the best. While my schedule often does not permit me hanging in the forums, I do consider it and everyone here my extended family.
