Friday, September 18, 2009

To Everything There Is A Season



To Everything There Is a Season- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8


To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the sun. A time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill and a time to heal ...a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance ...a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing;a time to lose and a time to seek; a time to rend and a time to sew; a time to keep silent and a time to speak; a time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace.

This post has been a long time coming, and it's only now that I feel I am ready to type the words that I've been feeling in my heart for a while now. Since it won't ever be easy saying them, I might as well just blurt them out right away....

I'm shutting down Heartfelt Greetings. Could be for a while. Could even be forever.

I've finally come to the conclusion that I am entering a different season in my life. A season of change. A season for figuring out what my purpose here on earth is going to be in the next decade. I guess only One Person truly knows what that purpose is going to be. But, I guess it's my job to step aside, quiet myself down and listen for His whispers. Truly listen for His direction. My life has been so noisy for the past few years that I haven't been able to hear anything other than my own wailing, if truth be told.

This season of change has literally drained me of every ounce of creative mojo that I have ever possessed and trying to create cards for my blog without this precious mojo is a lesson in futility! It's frustrating and really makes me sad, because I get great personal satisfaction doing what I do. When I don't have cards to share with you, I feel guilty and that's not healthy. The emotional toll these past few years have played on me is great, and I have a feeling that's the big reason why I can't create very easily anymore.

So, it's time for me to close the chapter on Heartfelt Greetings. It makes me sad, but it's really something I feel I need to do. I had such a blast blogging, though--please know that! I have met such WONDERFUL women doing it! You all made me the stamper I am today-so, congratulations. You have inspired me greatly! I still plan getting into my stamp studio as much as I can, if the creative mojo ever decides to return. In the meanwhile, I would appreciate your prayers. It's hard to quit doing something you love. I will miss you all so, so much. Your encouragement over the past two years has meant a great deal to me!

If you ever want to reach me, please feel free to email me at heartfeltgreetings@frontiernet.net. I would love to hear from old friends. In the meanwhile, I will definitely be checking in on all of your blogs for inspiration, and leaving you comments!

Much love and hugs,
Amy

35 comments:

  1. Anonymous12:19 PM

    Amy,
    From reading your blog, I know the last few years have been trying for you! Thank you for your honesty, transparency, and creativity!! Praying for you!! Blessings and hugs to you!!!

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  2. Wishing you heartfelt blessings on your new journey. I too believe there are new seasons and commend you for taking a stand and making this decision. God has BIG plans for you my friend. All the best.

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  3. Amy, I'm sorry to hear that but it sounds like this is something you need to do. How much longer do I have to gaze fondly at your lovely creations??

    Alison

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  4. Amy, sounds like you've learned a lot over the last few years. Many of your posts document your continued growth in your Christian walk. Many blessings to you!!!

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  5. God bless you. Love Janine

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  6. I totally understand...don't know how y'all do this at anytime...but we do appreciate it!

    Thanks for all the great ideas and glimpses into your family life. It was great fun!!

    Awesome picture...may God bless you as you follow Him!

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  7. Ohhhhhhhhhh!!!! I will miss coming to see you!!!

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  8. Dear Amy,

    This is crazy. I've never even met you, yet I feel sick that I have to "say goodbye". I do have your e-mail address in my address book, so perhaps I'll drop you a note sometime to say I miss you and I'm praying for you. I have begun BSF this year so will think of you when I'm there - I don't know if you are still able to get to that since you're working full time.

    I have been inspired to the point of copying many of your cards (roughly copying - and I don't sell anything so not to worry!) and I have agonized for you through the turbulence of your last 2 years. I don't know if you will believe this since we don't know each other, but I will truly miss you. Yours is the first blog I check every day.

    May God bless you,
    Laura

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  9. I completely understand what you mean. I left my old art blog, Bright Bold and Beautiful, because I, too, felt guilty when I didn't post for a while. Over time I considered what to do.

    I have really enjoyed my new blog, That's So Martha, because it has enabled me to blog on things I am doing when I'm not upstairs in the craft room. And when I do get the chance to get up there, it's a bonus!

    God is so good to us, and I pray that you will get a clear direction from him. You're very talented and I'm sure that taking a break will only make you better!

    God bless!

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  10. You have shared so much with all of us and will be deeply missed. You deserve to do what you want to do without feeling obligated...it does take it's toll. Enjoy and know that you have made a positive inpact in many lives...hugs, Mary Jo

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  11. Oh Amy! I will miss you! I so LOVED your scrapstash Saturdays. I know you've had some tough times and I've been praying for you. Your blog is in my favorites and has led me to many other favorites (including Pioneer Woman). I have checked you everyday for the longest time. I hope everything turns around but I know HE has great plans for YOU!!

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  12. Amy, I have enjoyed your blog tremendously and feel like I know you even though our paths have never met.....I too am at a crossroads in my life and making decisions that are none to easy. We are going through the trials of jobs and home stuff that just isn't fun but I know if ALL of my trust is in HIM then all will be that is suppose too.....Thank you for sharing yourself with us. If you ever want to contact me, just click on my name and it will take you to my blog. I pray that your soul will welcome the new season of your life and you will be bestowed many blessings the LORD has for you......In Christs love, Tilda

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  13. Oh, no, I can't believe it! I am so sad. I enjoyed your blog and your beautiful creations! I hope to see you again, soon. Take care.

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  14. Amy,
    I'm sorry you'll be leaving but I understand that you are doing what you need to do. I wish you only the best and will miss reading your blog.

    Hugs,
    Sharli

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  15. Going to miss your wonderful smile, wonderful red headed boys (I have two too) and your beautiful cards.

    Hugs
    Cazx

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  16. I hope that you'll find peace in your life Amy.

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  17. Amy, I'll certainly miss seeing your posts and while I can only imagine the struggle you went through to come to this decision, I can understand it. I will have you in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to seeing you around the stamping grounds from time to time! Wishing you the best in your next season whatever it may be!

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  18. I can understand how life seems to get so crazy that you don't seem to have time for anything else. I think it is important that we all check our priorities. I often feel guilty too if I don't post.....but I have been trying to get over it. If fewer people read my blog so be it. Our families should come first.....those are most important. So I am hoping you come back to blogging....even if you are only able to post a couple of times a month. (without feeling an ounce of guilt! LOL) But if not I understand! Let's stay in contact!!!! HUGS!

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  19. You must go in the direction your heart is taking you but I want to say that I will miss seeing your blog and reading about your and your sweet family. God Bless

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  20. I know how you feel. Its been harder and harder for me to keep up with my blog and creations. My job takes up alot of hours and now that I have a Grandson (he just turned 2) I spend alot of time with him. Plus taking care of the home... etc... There is just not enough time to do everything I want. We shouldn't feel so stressed and obligated. I used to think I needed to post something EVERY day.... Sometimes I would spend an entire Saturday creating posts and pre-scheduling them just to have something on my blog... I now post whenever. Once or twice a week... maybe more... If I feel I have something I want to share... then it will happen.. I no longer let it bother me... There are far more important things in life. I love the scripture you shared! So true! Best Wishes and hope to see you here occasionally.

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  21. Anonymous9:14 PM

    Please know that you aren't alone in this quest. I too am searching and the mojo isn't quite there. It will be wonderful to see you return to your blog one day. Blessings to you and yours.

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  22. As the Scripture says, there are many seasons in our lives. You will be missed, but your creativity will blossom in other ways for sure! Blessings in all that you do...

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  23. You'll be missed, Amy. I'm mostly a lurker, but I check in on your blog every now and then. I know exactly what you're saying though. You're cards have really inspired me. I've loved your ScrapStash Saturdays. Amazing stuff there. {{hugs}} for you, girl!

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  24. Amy
    So sorry to see you go but you have to do what makes you happy. You will be in my prayers.
    Chantell - South Africa

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  25. Wow....I am going to miss you. You are the first blog that I started checking every morning to start my day. I have found so many wonderful blogs from you site. I have loved your cards but even more your stories of life. Sometimes we feel like things only happen to us and from reading you blog it has helped me understand life happens to all of us. Take care of yourself....boy am I going to miss you.

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  26. I'll miss you! But if you feel that it's time to let go, please, don't feel guilty, because thats life. Empty yout hands and listen to our Father, He will fill them again! Thanks for all the thougts and cards you shared whit us.

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  27. Amy, Yours was one of the first blogs I "discovered" when I started my blogging journey two years ago, and while I was, for the most part, a stalker, I always admired your creativity as well as your faith and courage during difficult times. Although you will be missed, I respect your decision to do what you feel you need to do. Godspeed as you continue your journey!

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  28. Amy,
    You introduced me to blogs!!! Seriously, I think yours was one of the first I started following and I have come to love you as a sister in Christ. You have been transparent and encouraging and sometimes I think blogging has been theraputic for you too :) I will miss seeing you in this virtual community. . .but will keep this page bookmarked to remind me to pray for my friend in MN. Best wishes to you and your family. . .you serve a great and mighty God who only wants to lead you into greener pastures.

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  29. Hi Amy! I'll miss seeing your posts BUT I will stay subscribed...just in case. Who knows you may find some OTHER reason to blog again down he road. In the meantime...are you on facebook or anything like that? I'd LOVE to follow your LIFE somewhere else if possible.

    Your friend...no matter your endeavor. -Sara :D

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  30. Breathe deep, hang on tight, step forward! Proud of you, love you, sister! See you on FB still?

    Hugs, Dina

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  31. Amy,
    I will miss you....my prayers continue to be with you and your family.
    Hugs,
    Cathy

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  32. Sorry to be so slow checking in here. I've been without internet service. I'll miss you, Amy. My prayers are with you and your family.
    I hope you will be back some day, even if it is only to blog and not craft.

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  33. Hey Amy - was surprised to discover this tonight but at the same time not surprised! I wish you all the best in your future endeavours & may you find the time to enjoy crafting and just being you :) A few years back when I was just out of high school, the verse "Be still and know that I am God" popped up everywhere for a whole month - I kid you not, it was like haunting me but obviously we both know who the prompter was! Be blessed for taking the time to decide to just be still...

    PS: I still cherish the fact that I was one of your blog candy winners (the cute tin full of chocolate that you had to mail to Canada)

    Hugs - Louise

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  34. This comment has been a long time in coming - since 9/18, in fact. I couldn't remember my Google account password. I will certainly miss all the fun I have had on your blog. So much inspiration. So much creativity. So many good recipes. (I've got my turkey gravy recipe out ready to go.) So much... But, life happens, and seasons do change. I have prayed for you and your family daily for just a little over the last two years, and will continue to do so. Much happiness to you! Hugs back to you!

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  35. Anonymous10:42 AM

    Amy,
    Sorry that I am so late in seeing your post. It has been a pleasure reading your blog and sharing in your journey, your creative crafty one and your family. You are an inspiration to me and will always be one, I have the utter most respect for you. Good luck to you in your newest journey. I have also been looking for stillness within myself as I recently couldn't handle the noise anymore, I thought I was beginning to lose my 'mind'. I am currently reading a book 'Stillness Speaks' by Eckhart Tolle. I have read several of books and have found that have helped me profoundly. I am now more at peace and continue to work on it daily. You are always in my thoughts and prayers and hope to keep in touch (facebook buddy :) )

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