It's More Than Crafting- CHA Edition

In the last few months, there has been some exciting new changes to my life.  Besides becoming a full-time child care provider for a good friend's little one (and continuing my part-time job caring for another), I accepted a position with Cindy deRosier of My Creative Life as Marketing Coordinator:

 http://www.cindyderosier.com/2015/12/introducing.html

I am beyond thrilled for this new experience in my life!  I have so much to learn, but it has been fun and challenging so far.

As part of the job, I had the privilege to attend the 2016 CHA Mega Show and attend classes related to social media, affiliate marketing and trends.  Of course, the icing on the cake was to walk the show floor and see what's new in the crafting world, talk to people in the industry and meet so many designers and craft celebrities I admire.

Once again, I was reminded of how much more crafting is than just a hobby.  Especially in the world of scrapbooking, you feel as if you know the artist behind the pages.  You watch their lives unfold onto beautiful papers and through personal photos. You see their children and families.  You get a peek into their happy times and tough spots.

I was so fortunate to be able to voice words from my heart to two of my favorite artists in person during the show.  I had hoped these moments would happen and that I would have the words if they did.

When Heidi Swapp lost her son suddenly 6 months ago, I know myself and crafters around me were so saddened by the news.  Yes, we don't know her or her family personally, but she has shared her family with her followers over the years and we could all feel the loss as women, mothers and humans.  I was full of emotion as I had the opportunity to share a moment with Heidi and share that even though we don't know each other, my fellow crafting friends and I prayed for her and her family. I'm so grateful for this small time with her, so much more powerful in my opinion that a post on Facebook or Instagram.

Heidi Swapp

My other"moment" at the show was spending time talking with Cathie Filian at the Plaid booth about her beautiful little girls.  Cathie and her husband have been in the process of adopting two sisters over the course of a couple years and have shared their journey with us, the fans and followers.  My crafting friends and I have been rooting for their family since Day 1 and I was thrilled to share that with her, in person.  She is such a kind and warm person!

Steve Piacenza and Cathie Filian

These moments, outside of product and business, were two of the best takeaways from my time at CHA.  Crafting is so much more than a hobby and being around people that "get it" makes that ever so more apparent!