Friday and we are flip flopping!

Friday and we are flip flopping!

 Hello!
Thanks for popping in.
Friday’s blog a private peek, right?
Well yesterday, whilst making the big decision to blog ahead so that the show goes on while we go snorkelling in the Pacific,
Maui – Molokini = No internet……
I was actually feeling guilty. 
Jim could feel me struggling, and this is what he said…
“Do you realise Barb, that you have blogged every day,
without missing a beat, since 16th October 2013?
That’s 1,010 posts. Every blog takes you at least 2 hours, sometimes 3 or 4. So that’s at least 2,020 hours.
Probably more like 3,000 hours.”
While I was digesting the number of hours and what that really means, Jim started reading out my very first blog…. 

I’m a Blogging Virgin….

Well, here goes. Working my way around this new Blog is much like wandering round Sainsbury’s blindfolded. I think I have been down a different aisle, but keep ending up at the same place, the Cheese counter. 
Ever the optimist, I will carry on writing, even though the probability of this ever actually getting saved and posted is about as likely as me getting back into those size 12 skinny jeans I used to wear way back when.
It’s like everything new, I guess. Learning to blog is like learning to do anything: the level of success will be in direct proportion to the amount of effort, time and energy I am prepared to give it. When I look around, in Blogland, there are so many clever people, and I think I should be able to do this! But I must tell you, this isn’t my first attempt at starting a Blog. Oh no! I reckon I must have at least 3 skeleton blogsites, sitting all forlorn and forgotten. Just never knew what for, where and how! But this time, it’ll be different, I promise….
Never a truer word written! It was the bit about the level of success being in direct proportion to the amount of effort, time and energy I was prepared to give it which spoke to me.
Here we all are, nearly 3 years on,
a couple of Blog awards under the belt, 
a massive craft resource library, packed with photo step-by steps,
a kind safe community has built up around it,
and a caring circle of friends which makes my heart sing.
No wonder I struggle to detach – albeit only for a fortnight !!
But I’m not gone yet !!!!
First we need to pack.
Dave hasn’t been snorkelling before,
so he’s in for a real treat. 
 So are we.
Time to pack the van for the Bristol Parchment Show.
That will be interesting.
I wonder how the seasoned, traditional parchment experts 
will respond to our Groovi system….
They really ought to be giving us a pat on the back, 
because Groovi most definitely put the art of parchment 
back on the crafting map! Or should I say mat?
Have a great day. 
Enjoy the leaves on the trees!
A little rain and a little sunshine –
and our little island is a green haven again.

love & hugs,

xxx

124 thoughts on “Friday and we are flip flopping!

  1. Oh Barb that pic actually made me LOL!! I hope you all have a fabulous holiday – you so deserve it. Blinkin eck when you add all those hours up it kinda makes you think doesn't it? Thank you for blogging your words of wisdom each and every day – I always find it inspiring in one way or another. I may not comment every day but I always read what you write. Happy hols. Xxx

  2. Oh for goodness sake, woman, think about yourself for a change !! To blog everyday I'd be posting just one word I reckon, although at least I would remember what to do ! at the moment when I blog a card it's not automatic which I hate so I really should try it every day but it would be a bit boring!

    Loving the flippers – you're braver than me. Just get off after Bristol and enjoy, we'll look forward to hearing about your adventures when you get back. We will miss you but will manage with Paul and all of us together. DO NOT FEEL GUILTY – that's an order ! You, Dave and your family just enjoy each other's company and the holiday x x x

    1. Well said Jackie – couldn't have put it better myself! Mind you, do we tell ourselves this – as in, 'do NOT feel guilty'? I will confess to having used those very same words many times about myself! Have you? Why is it always easier to see and say it to other people, I wonder?! Hugs Gilly x

  3. Hope Bristol goes well. Have the most wonderful holiday. Why not have a complete rest, come back refreshed to blog again. We will miss it, but survive, and will imagine you enjoying the sun, sea and sand.

    Safe journeys.

    Ruth B

  4. Thanks for the early morning LOL Barbara. Xx you are still a "Funny Bugger" as my Mam would have said. I remember you getting that Blog off the ground, we had a few little technical chats then too, aw I miss that. You have done so well Barbara, people aren't going to forget about your Blog in two weeks now are they!!! And like you say there is loads of Artwork to be shown, I think a Clarity Art Exhibition is a good idea! Have fun at Bristol. Xxx Sam

  5. Love the photos. Reminds me of a holiday years ago when my snorkelling virgin hubby kept the whole beach entertained for 2 weeks trying to get in & out of the sea wearing the largest pair of flippers you ever did see. When he managed to do it without falling over he got a massive round of applause from everyone! Hope Bristol will prove once & for all to you that Groovi is Groovy & that you will all have a fab holiday. If you were wondering…I have just been for that swim so now it's a quick flick round with the duster so I can go & play with my new plates guilt free! Lots of love xx

    1. Diane do you know my husband? When we were much younger I worked every Saturday so he used to do the cleaning or so I thought! Months later as our carpet became increasingly 'slippy' I discovered that 10 mins before I got home he sprayed polish everywhere to con me into believing he had done a good job! Thanks for the memory, made us both laugh out loud xxx

  6. Oh Barbara you so make me laugh every day with your blog. You had better tell Dave not to go skinning dipping when he is snorkelling or the fishes will be after him haha.

    I used my light panel a couple of days ago and loved it, although it was getting a little bit hot on one side, I will try it again over the next couple of days and if it continues I will contact the office, it is the black frame along the centre bottom if you know what I mean.

    I so wished I could get to Bristol but alas it is not to be but if you can please can we see some pictures.

    Hugs my friend, stay safe, healthy and happy, June Smith xxxxx

    1. Hi June mine gets hot on the black part too at the bottom edge I thought it was because I had used it on my knee but I know Paul said you could use it on your knee i used it in bed resting on the sheets it seem ok but was monitoring every time I used it then going to ring clarity glad you put it on here as thought it was just mine .xxx

    2. Hi June,
      Just been using mine and it does get warm ,not sure I would say hot, where the lights are but can still rest arm on it without it being uncomfortable. Will monitor it though X

  7. Everyone needs a break recharge the batteries so to speak. I love your blog, makes me laugh gives inspiration but we'll all still be here waiting when you get back eager to hear and see what we've missed. Have a fab time you deserve it xx

  8. Hi Barbara
    Loving the pictures they did make me laugh , enjoy your holiday it is well deserved after all your hard work at Clarity Towers Enjoy Theresa xx

  9. Good morning Barbara. Wishing you. Dave and Steve a fabulous holiday. Have a marvellous time in Bristol…..I will be thinking of you.
    I think that you are an amazing lady (and extremely funny) You have entertained us all with your blogging since the very beginning. Not just with all your wonderful art and top tips. You let us in to your life and you have shared yourself with us and we have very much appreciated all of that. From day one to today is a really big achievement.
    So my dear friend…… Go have fun…..we will talk about you while you are away, we will enjoy looking at what Paul puts up on your behalf and look forward with love in our hearts for your return. (yes soppy I know but you are loved)
    Now go slay them in Bristol xxxxxxxxx

  10. Good morning Barbara. Wishing you. Dave and Steve a fabulous holiday. Have a marvellous time in Bristol…..I will be thinking of you.
    I think that you are an amazing lady (and extremely funny) You have entertained us all with your blogging since the very beginning. Not just with all your wonderful art and top tips. You let us in to your life and you have shared yourself with us and we have very much appreciated all of that. From day one to today is a really big achievement.
    So my dear friend…… Go have fun…..we will talk about you while you are away, we will enjoy looking at what Paul puts up on your behalf and look forward with love in our hearts for your return. (yes soppy I know but you are loved)
    Now go slay them in Bristol xxxxxxxxx

  11. Good morning Barbara, brilliant photographs which made me chuckle, always nice to LOL. WOW 3 years and blogging everyday is no mean feat I know as only this year I decided to stop blogging everyday after 4 years. It is hard to step away but you have a lovely adventure ahead of you and I know for sure you and Dave so need this time together to enjoy life under the sea!
    Have yourself a wonderful time and enjoy!
    Hugs
    Linda xxx 🌞🕶⛱

  12. Hello Barbara your blog has given me so much insperation and brought me some wonderful blog friends who help me through each day .you have a fabulous break away Bristol parchment show should welcome you with open arms for bringing parchment to the forefront and given people like me another way to craft groovi is amazing sending you a big thank you for all you do xxx

    1. Afternoon Donna Dorothy Diane Brenda pam gilly morag Julia sue57 pen and all the lovley blog friends thinking of you all hugs and smiles to all on the blog .xxxx

    2. Hi Sheila, what are you up to today. I'm going to get the last of the furniture back into my bedroom. I bought myself a pocket style folder this morning for my masks so when I come home this evening from work I'll sort them out. I've got quite a wee collection of masks.

    3. Well put Sheila, I totally agree what you have said to Barbara!
      I hope that you are well today and enjoying some glorious sunshine too! Caring hugs from your blog friend, Gilly xxx

  13. Had to lol at your funny photos. I went snorkelling with my son when we were in Antigua even though I couldn't swim very well, admittedly he didn't let go of me, it was brilliant. I don't think you have any worry about what the expert parchers will think of your groovy system, they should be delighted that you have bought so many more people back to the craft. With the groovy even people with a disability like arthritis can join in. Enjoy the show in Bristol, I hope you sell loads. Evidently they have bought more card craft into it this year so think you'll do well. Love Pam xx

  14. I am sure it will be great at Bristol. I think the groovi system is wonderful but what I like most is the way that you show that you are learning the art of parchment as you go along and that so much is possible with all the lovely plates. Have a lovely holiday.

  15. Hi to all my lovely clarity family, hope you all have a wonderful day, the sun is shining here although its a bit blowy. Have fun and enjoy your crafting. Love & Hugs to you all and to all on the blog.xx

    1. Hi Pam hope you've had a good day and been gentle on that back. It's been warm and sunny again here today but it's got chilly this evening. Sending hugs xxx

    2. Hi Pam, Alison's right. It feels like we're back to winter here. I've had a busy day, but unfortunately not of it included crafting. Hopefully tomorrow!! xxx

  16. Barbara, I so want you to go on holiday, and not think about work for 1 second. I know that's probably impossible, but please try. If ever anyone deserved a complete break, it is you. So, have a great show at Bristol, and then pack up and switch off. We will be waiting to hear all about it when you return xx

  17. Barbara, why don't you just bugger off and go on holiday…only kidding but seriously you have nothing to feel guilty about. We should feel guilty for making you feel obliged to keep the blog going while you are away. We will still be here when you get back and Paul will look after us. I'm sure they will love you in Bristol, you have revived parching after all.

  18. Hi Barbara – I think that everyone has pretty much summed up how I am feeling about you having a complete rest away from everything. I didn't find your blog until last year, so I am a relative newcomer here really. However, I am thankful each day for being able to come here and not only get inspiration from your art – but also from you sharing your thoughts too! Another equally wonderful thing about coming here each day, is that I have made some really wonderful blog friends – whose friendship I treasure deeply. They continually help to get me through some difficult times and lift my spirits SO much. We are all wanting you to take time out, and thank you and Paul for making sure that your blog will continue each day. Now go, knock 'em dead in Bristol! Hugs to you and your wonderful Team Clarity! and happy holidays – Gilly xxx

    1. Hi to all my wonderful blog friends – I hope that you are enjoying the same kind of wonderful weather that we are having here in Cornwall today! I managed to walk up the garden today, and (with Neill's help) put out some washing to dry! I even didn't try to finish it all in one go! Wow, must be learning some sense at last! Back resting now, hoping to Groovi a little later on – love and hugs to you all, Gilly xxx

    2. Hi Gilly,
      Pleased you've got good weather- it's turned really chilly up here today. I think the heating might be on later on. Pleased you've managed to get outside a little today, but don't overdo it. Enjoy your Groovi time. Love and hugs Alison xx

    3. Hi Gilly from the 'frozen north' at least that's what it feel like at the moment!! It sounds like you've really got the groovi bug now. I'm pleased for you as it is so relaxing. But no overdoing it mind. Hugs xxx

  19. Oh aye you got that right Barbara so many clever people here.. and then there is me never be as good as you and my friends here I know that but what the heck you and they help me so much in the wee crafty world and so much more.
    Go on now have a great show in Bristol pack that case and have a great time.
    And Thank you you have made me decide I'm going to do the same later on in the year me and my Daughter and the kids are going abroad for the first time since we lost their Grandad…we took them with us every year since they were wee.. great memories more to come the kids are so excited ..me I don't know why I feel a bit guilty that he won't be there but he will as it's a place he picked and it is beautiful ….Xx
    Take care have a great time…Dot..Xxx

    1. Afternoon bloggy pals here I go again getting a wee bit emotional but I'm fine if you canae open yir heart to yir friends then who else is their have a happy weekend hugs ti yi all cuddle fir Brenda…xx

    2. Hello my special blog friend he will be with you in your heart and the new memories you make will be special too he would want you to have this holiday and it's OK to feel emotional sending lots of warm hugs xxx

    3. Hi Dot – I totally agree with everything that has already been said. You are doing the right thing, and I would imagine that you will be talking to him and sharing it all with him while you are there. Huge hugs, Gilly xx

    4. I'm a bit emotional with you Dot – he will be there with you all every step of the way, and will be absolutely delighted that you and the grandkids are enjoying your holidays. Big hugs, Susan x

    5. That's wonderful Dot, you deserve a good holiday. Don't feel guilty he wouldn't want that. I'm sure he would be over the moon that you are going with the family and keeping up his tradition.
      I expect you are emotional and you can talk to us anytime you want to, no subject taboo, after all that's what friends are for. Hubby will always be there in spirit and your memories. Lovely you are going to a place he picked. Love and hugs,Pam xx

    6. Hello my lovely Dot. Just think of your hubby up on his clouds with a knotted hanky and bucket and spade joining in all the fun. What a perfect decision to make, you will all have a lovely holiday and the children will share such lovely memories with you. Sending you a huge big squishy hug xxx

    7. Hello dear Dorothy. What a wonderful decision to have made. I know it's easier said that done, but please don't feel guilty. Because your hubby is in your heart, you will be taking him with you wherever you go. Sending a huge hug xxx

  20. Afternoon Barbara. I love the photos but hope it is wetter and warmer where you are going!!!!!!!!! Have a great holiday ,you all deserve it, Look forward to hearing about it when you get back to blogland.
    Gayle x

  21. I look forward to reading your blog every day but you really do need a break, it would be lovely if each of your design team would do a slot with a few of their own crafty tips for us while you are away, I would love to know them better. The way things are for me it is unlikely that I will get to the open days or workshops, much as I would like to, so You Tube and blogs are the best I can get xx

  22. Hi Barb,
    I'm not sure I would be brave enough to snorkel like that!! Actually I have to admit that I get really scared when I go snorkelling – I feel as though I can't breathe with the mask on and then forget that I've got the tube in my mouth!! I hope you knock them senseless at Bristol – if they don't take to Groovi, they are just being total snobs! It has made parchment craft so accessible for us mere mortals and if someone as good as Tina Cox likes it then that should tell them something & and of course the Design Team parchers. I hope you have a fabulous holiday with Dave and Steve and don't even think about us or Clarity – we will still be here when you get back and Paul will keep us entertained I'm sure! Love and hugs Alison xxx

    1. Hello to all my lovely blog friends,
      Hope weather is good and you're all ok. It's turned really chilly here today and dull. I've been having a good sort out of my crafty stuff today and got rid of loads to a friend of mine who was chuffed to bits. I can actually see some space in my craft cupboard ( although probably not for long!) . Might get rid of some more tomorrow! Love and hugs to all, Alison xxx

    2. I need to clear some space too. I need to start using some backing papers and embellishments that I have been saving because they are so lovely that I haven't wanted to part with them which is really silly!

    3. Hi Chris that's me too soft eh (too nice to use ) hi Alison good that your making room for new things and your friend will enjoy what you don't use xxx

    4. Hi Alison, sorry to hear that it's so cold for you today – we are being VERY fortunate as it's very warm here. I will try and send some warmth up to you! I also had a sort out of some of my craft stuff before I went away, and have given it to my daughter – who is just starting out! She was over the moon and I did tell her that there will be more to come, when I am able to do it – not in the foreseeable future though – I am trying to be SO good! Love and hugs Gilly xx

    5. Hi Alison I need a good sort out too, get rid of some of the stuff I no longer use to make room for the new good quality stuff I now use. Sending you a hug xx

    6. Hello Alison I had a good sort it recently, only most of it went back..just in case!!! But it will feel good to have it all tidy. If you're anything like me you'll have found unused items that you forgot you even had!! So much for the start of warm weather. Hubby has had to get the fleece back out for the plants in the greenhouses. Brr! Hope it warms up soon. Love and Hugs xxx

  23. Hello Barbara, it was fascinating to read your first blog and I am amazed how long it has been going! You really do need to go away and have a complete break and a lovely, lovely time. We can hear all about it when you come back just like we would with any friend who goes on holiday!
    If the Bristol parchers don't appreciate how your products have moved parching into the 21st century, it's their loss. I hope it goes well for your sake though xx

    1. Hello all. We got home last night after a lovely few days in Edinburgh. What a lovely city! The weather was great and the hotel was super, not only did we feel pampered but it also felt like we'd been abroad – which I suppose we had in a way.
      My tablet played up before we went so I only took my phone which is fine for most things but too small to type much on a blog, so will catch up with the week's blogs soon xx

    2. Edinburgh is my hometown Chris. It has an atmosphere all of its own. Mind, I'm a bit biased!! I'm pleased you've had a good holiday. xx

  24. Enjoy your well earned break. I do read your blog every day and although I seldom comment, I do look forward to seeing what you are sharing with us each day. You are so entertaining and inspiring. I need time to catch up on so many projects that you have shared with us
    Take care and make the most of your r&r. X

  25. Wow – how time flies and how things change. I am only really rather new to Blog land not yet a year doing my blog, but I look back and see a change, so for you Barb = a fantastic journey.

    If it was not for you and your Blog Challenge I would not have started my blog so one could say you are to blame. But it is only with love as it is such a fantastic place. So many friends – none whom I have seen but feel I know you all, both here and on my blog too.

    Enjoy – grow – and be happy and that is what I get each day from all these friends here.

    With much Crafty hugs Pen x

  26. You all certainly deserve a break. I love your blog but certainly think it should be the last thing on your mind while you enjoy your holiday. We all benefit, as you shared some fantastic moments of your last road trip and it will be something to look forward to in great anticipation.

    My alphabet arrived today, thank you for the generous offer which made my purchase a no brainer, as I went on line to look at it before reading your blog and realising why the price was so great!

  27. You all certainly deserve a break. I love your blog but certainly think it should be the last thing on your mind while you enjoy your holiday. We all benefit, as you shared some fantastic moments of your last road trip and it will be something to look forward to in great anticipation.

    My alphabet arrived today, thank you for the generous offer which made my purchase a no brainer, as I went on line to look at it before reading your blog and realising why the price was so great!

  28. Hi Barbara, Cynthia from SoCal here and I go to Maui a lot. If you get a chance and can break away from the resorts along the coast, I would suggest a drive to the 'Upcountry'if you have not already been there. It's a beautiful rural part of the island dominated mostly by agriculture and ranch land located on the rural northwest slope of Haleakala on East Maui. The views there are outstanding and the area gives you a different perspective of Maui that many tourists overlook. There is a quaint town of Makawao, and you cannot miss a fabulous restaurant called Hali'maile General Store in Hali'maile ( http://hgsmaui.com). Get one of their lemongrass ginger drinks – so refreshing! The food and artwork there is divine! So happy you will be spending time in California too! I assume you will get to see Mark. Enjoy your much-deserved vacation!

  29. Hi Barbara, like a lot of others, I read your blog most days or like today I have a few days catching up to do!!! I'm so pleased you are leaving everything behind and having a complete break, it will do you the world of good. Paul will look after your blog and I for one am looking forward to seeing some of the old artwork, it seems a shame not to revisit it every now and again.
    Have a lovely holiday, Bristol will love the groovi plate and if they don't, its their loss, I think the companies Bank balance will confirm what we all know!!!
    Safe journey…. Kay

  30. Hi Barbara, like a lot of others, I read your blog most days or like today I have a few days catching up to do!!! I'm so pleased you are leaving everything behind and having a complete break, it will do you the world of good. Paul will look after your blog and I for one am looking forward to seeing some of the old artwork, it seems a shame not to revisit it every now and again.
    Have a lovely holiday, Bristol will love the groovi plate and if they don't, its their loss, I think the companies Bank balance will confirm what we all know!!!
    Safe journey…. Kay

  31. Somebody's bottom has shrunk!! Well all I can say is that your blog has kept me going, when at times the "black dog" has struck. It is so lovely, after a stressful day to read it and all the comments from the lovely bloggers and their support. I am really sad to be missing the show but my light box has arrived. I may be tired but not too tired as to have a play. Hooray for Barbara and all at Clarity Towers.
    Have a wonderful holiday – I would out diving with you
    Lots of love
    Anne (Reading)

  32. Don't mind you having a couple of weeks off at all, enjoy your holiday to the max! Only those who've not tried blogoing think it's 'a doddle' (easy) to do…it's definitely not… and the fact that you do it everyday…hats off to you! I'll still pop in everyday and am sure Paul will do an excellent job until you return. Have a great holiday, enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes… oh yes, don't forget it's also a great way of getting rid of hard skin on your feet….rofl!

  33. Well, what an achievement when you look back over those years, and I really want to say how much you, your blog, your design team and the challenges have inspired and taught me and changed the way that I craft. If anyone deserves a "get away from it all" holiday it's you and yours, so have fun, and we'll all still be here having enjoyed the inspiration from those boxes whilst you were gone x

  34. I totally love your daily blog, your description of a drop into a comfy coffee shop is perfect. You so deserve a complete break and I am sure you leave the ranch in great hands. Have a great, well deserved holiday and I look forward to hearing about it when you return. Xxx

  35. Dear Barbara, I have been meaning to get my website and blog set up for the last couple of months, and still haven't quite achieved it so I know how much work is involved in doing this every day… I take my hat off to you. I read your blog daily (even tho I don't comment) when I can, but catch up even when I miss a couple. I am really looking forward to seeing you at the Bristol Parchment Craft Exhibition and as a traditionalist in parchment Craft and using the Groovi system I can only see a partnership – a working together of the old and new combining techniques for everyone. I really hope you enjoy it. It is a real mix of parchment craft from those demonstrating, exhibiting and selling and I look forward to seeing you , I hope you have a wonderful experience of the South West and to top it off you enjoy a wonderful and well deserved holiday…..
    Best wishes
    Moya xxx

  36. Love the pictures made me laugh as always your blogs are a work of art you do but so much in them that's why we all love them . You must go have a good time you will have so much to share when you get back you so deserve a break we will all be here ready and waiting snorkelling sounds amazing got friends that go love seeing there pictures of the fish just amazing lots love Joy xx

  37. Hi Barbara. I am sure most of us "seasoned, traditional parchment experts" will be pleased to see the Groovi Boards. Anything which promotes this beautiful art must be a good thing. I look forward to seeing you on Saturday as we set up (and maybe get a sneaky peek) and Sunday for the show. I am intrigued to see the translucent mat, which I hope you had room to bring. Kind regards, Jackie R

  38. Yes folks its true, and I can finally admit, that I have never been snorkelling ! Save for the time that i had to rescue some sheep which had strayed onto a frozen pond, they went through he ice, and so did I !! Not a pretty sight I can tell you.. Never been the same since to be honest… And then she tell me " you'll have to watch out for the 'invisible' jelly fish…Well 'blow that' says I. Albeit in slightly more colourful language.. Watch this space xx

    1. It'll be a brilliant experience for you Dave. ..and much warmer than a freezing pond!! Have a wonderful holiday with Barbara and Steve..and I hope you all manage to put everything Clarity out of your minds while you're away. xx

  39. i follow the blog everyday even though i don't always comment. that Jim sure knows how to put things into perspective. good on him. enjoy your snorkelling. i've never been, hugs xx

  40. I hope you get a really positive response in Bristol and they see how many people will venture from Groovi to traditional parchment and the other way too and as for those that mix the two – wowee

    I love reading your blog. I read every post; sometimes 2-3 at a time as I've missed a few but I always go back to read and admire artwork

    Hope you have a lovely holiday. You certainly deserve it

  41. Hi Barbara, hope all well in Bristol. Please do not fee guilty. Just many thanks for bringing us the Groovi system, I may not be as good as the wonderful clarity team plus Paul& Maria but just loving all I try to do. Have a wonderful holiday and we will be fine while Paul and all the clarity team are looking after us. Happy day's. Lynn x x 😎

  42. Hi Barbara
    Wow , Jim really makes you think doesn't he! I remember reading that first blog and it's been a real pleasure sharing your journey with you, the laughs ( you and your mum and that shopping trolley in the hotel lift in Germany), the worry over Daves illness ( oh Dave I can't wait to hear about your snorkelling experiences!) and all the fun laughter and competitions we have had. Long may it continue, but go off on holiday and let Paul work his magic, I'm sure he will have a wonderful time with us all looking after him! Go show Bristol the joys of Groovi, let the traditionalists see what you can create, stand proud with Tina at your side and wave the Clarity flag. But most of all – have fun!!
    Love Diane xxxx

    1. Hello Donna Brenda Sheila Dot Pam Alison Morag Gilly and all the lovely blog friends. I hope you are all ok and gave gad a lovely day. If anyone is going to Bristol parchment show have a lovely time. Love and hugs all round xxx

  43. Hi Barbara. You'll do brilliantly at the Bristol show. I've been a traditional parcher for quite a number of years on and off, and I just adore the Groovi, as you may guess by the number of orders I place haha! As I got older it became more and more difficult to do the line art, but now I'm back into parching every week. The Groovi compliments traditional parching beautifully. So don't worry!!!
    I absolutely love being a part of your wonderful blog and I can't thank you enough for the time and effort you put into it. It is such an important part of my day. I am mostly housebound, so apart from a wonderful craft forum which I've belonged to since 2012, this IS my social life.
    Have a brilliant holiday xxx

  44. Hello all my wonderful blog friends. I hope you've all had a good day..and better weather than we have!! Love and Hugs to you all. xxx

  45. Hi Barbara, thank you for sharing your very first Blog. It really lifted my spirits as I'm feeling exactly like you did back then. I started my first blog this week and I'm feeling like I'm on an alien planet staring into a labyrinth of posts, gadgets and blogging terms I've never heard before. Its pretty daunting. Its so good to read that someone as fantastically bloggie as yourself felt that way once too. There's hope for me yet… 🙂

  46. Personally I am absolutely delighted you are taking a holiday that means you have to switch off from everything including the blog. We will miss you but I will be eager to hear all about your adventures when you return. I have always wanted to go be able to swim with the fishes!! I feel some mermaid stamps coming on Barb. I can see you now in an open topped american car on the highway with the warm wind in your hair listening to The Eagles Hotel California……. Much love Jayne

  47. Hi Barbara, you deserve the break. Hold your head up high knowing what you have achieved both with Clarity and your blog. You can really enjoy yourself,relax, and who knows, the inspiration will flow without you realising it and I can guarantee the memories of your trip will bring new ideas for Groovi and particularly your rubber stamps. Have a wonderful time xxx

  48. Hi Barb, you certainly do deserve a pat on the back, and so does Dave and your entire team. I personally think what you bring us is incredible, including the nutty pics, which always make us laugh. Hope Bristol goes well. Take care. Bx

  49. Hi Barb,
    Already commented, but just wanted to say I've received by breakdown sale goodies this morning and what a lovely surprise when I opened the box – signed by you- that made my day! Thank you and Clarity for getting them out so quickly. Good luck with the show, love and hugs Alison. X

  50. Hi Barbara, just to add to what's already been said and wish you a brilliant holiday.As Jim has pointed out we already have enough blog words to keep us going so if, whilst you are away each of us looked back at a previous project each day, it would refresh our batteries whilst you recharge yours. Get the message…switch off. I'm sure Bristol will be a huge success, only wish I could get there myself. Loving the new light box so plenty to keep me going.
    Good luck with the packing.
    Carole
    x

  51. You deserve a proper break Barbara and Jim is quite right in what he says about the amount of effort you have put in over the last three years so stop feeling guilty and have a great time, and in the meantime hope the Bristol show was a great success. x

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