Aug 24, 2008 | Post by: Mabelle 34 Comments

Joy-Filled Pockets

A simple but joyful sample layout using the Patchwork Sampler below and the Crossroads Alpha Set2. It’s the joyful simplicity of the ENTIRE Croosroads line that makes this set an easy but vibrant digital scrapbooking set! No frills…. just pure scrapbooking joy!

I will be revealing bits and pieces of CrossroadsII in the days ahead. With every new set included in CrossroadsII, I made a sampler for everyone to enjoy! Each sampler kit contains unique elements NOT found in the kit. Hence, those who did buy CrossroadsII and those who are not able to, will both look forward to something “pretty” in the days ahead. Download the Patchwork Sampler from the PREVIOUS blogpost. The download link will soon expire! Hurry!

CrossroadsII is made up of FOUR sets. Patchwork is one of the sets.

Here’s a pocket that looks cute enough to contain your precious photos. CrossroadsII is designed with joyful anticipation of the future.

If you are new in this blog, you can skip the next section. You will find no freebies below – just a story about me. The post below is for the handful of ladies who continue to “hold my hand” and “travel” with me… I owe them much to tell them what’s happening with me…

Why Crossroads II?

Crossroads II is my “joy-filled anticipation” of what lies ahead of me made graphic. If this “crossroads” happened a few years back, I would have been devastated and called it “the end of my world as I know it.” I’m glad it happened now, at this point in my life, where everything is NOT taken seriously and anything that happens has a reason behind it (so I just got to look for that reason to understand why it is happening and how I can get past the “trying times”).

I’ve been a marketing consultant for a multinational corporation for close to two decades now. I’ve greatly benefited from that association professionally and financially. But more than that, I’ve made very good friends with the top executives of the company, some of whom, have moved to greener pastures but continue to remain close to me to date. Some I consider mentors, one a “fairy godmother” and the rest, the kind of friends you keep for a lifetime.

The last of those executives have moved on – one of the closest I’ve ever had. The last of the people who know and believe my unquestionable commitment and dedication has left the company. I am happy for her as she is moving to a whole new world with great opportunities. I am sad because I will no longer enjoy her company as much… Nah… “devastated” is more like it because she is one of the few I keep close to my heart.

I have no idea if the new executives are aware of my work, more so, my commitment. I have no idea if they would like to work with me or choose to work with another agency whom they are more comfortable with. That was my “crossroad.”

I honestly don’t know if I am being urged to move on too and build “associations” with other multinational companies or focus away from consultancy and finally to graphic designing (as most of my new minor accounts are in this area). I have no idea where my career is going to go next. At forty, I’ve hit a midlife crisis with my career. I honestly don’t have a clue where my “new frontiers” are. I just know it will be in an area I will be as happy if not more so. I have that much faith.

Even before the last of my “friends” have left the company… Even before I come face to face with zero job requests from the multinational company I have loved for two decades, I received a call from another associate asking for my services not for one but FOUR companies — which includes one of the world’s top ten global brands! That BIG! It is something I never expected not even in my wildest dreams! I recently signed a contract with that company with the 4 brands now tucked under my belt. I am humbled that just when I thought no company would recognize the kind of work I do, I now have not 1 but four who believe I can be their asset.

I have no idea how far this new road is taking me but I plan to travel it with joy and surrender. I do not intend to make “wishes” at all since the best I can think of (or dream about) pales in comparison with what I am given. My surrender is complete, my faith remains strong.

Crossroads II is my journey into my “new road” in visual form. I hope you see my joy in it… and my total surrender. :)

PS: As I post this, I have been requested by a young executive for a great project with my “old” multinational corporation. I pray they continue to “look” my way as my heart remains with the company and the global brands they own.

Thank you for “walking” this far down the road with me… I will be posting the wonderful feedbacks I got from Crossroads II soon! Its all heart-warming!

34 Comments to Joy-Filled Pockets

  1. Bekah_E
    August 24, 2008 6:34 pm

    what a great testimony! thanks for sharing!

  2. Rarole
    August 24, 2008 8:32 pm

    My Dear One,
    I remember, and not too long ago, you embarked upon your current road with mixed feelings of joy and anticipation – and a little fear. And look where you are today!!! As long as you walk humbly and justly – just as you have been doing, no matter the results, you will be right. I look forward to your news and, as always, following your every step. With my love and prayers!!

  3. Mary S
    August 24, 2008 8:51 pm

    Oh, what wonderful opportunities await you! I know that whatever you do, you will do it well. Your blog is an inspiration to me, and I know that you are on your way to even more wonderful things!!

  4. Tammy
    August 24, 2008 10:37 pm

    You have such an opportunity to do all of these projects and I anticipate more stories to come our way! Looking forward to purchasing Crossroads II and Good luck in all of your projects and make sure you take good care of yourself.

    HUGS!
    Tammy

  5. cefalu
    August 25, 2008 2:27 am

    Thanks for the Joy In Your Pocket. You have certainly chosen the correct path at the Crossroads. You know the old saying, When one door closes another door opens. But it seems that the old door did not completely close. Good luck with all your future endeavors.

  6. leanne
    August 25, 2008 6:59 am

    Mabelle, I too turned 40 this year, and completely understand the whole “crossroads” phenomenon. I made substantial changes to my work situation (though still in the same career broadly) in the spring as a result of being at the crossroads. So far, trusting in myself to be able to not only survive – but thrive – on a new path ahead of the crossroads has already yeilded amazing results in my life. I wish for you the same, and as long as you keep trusting in yourself, I’m certain you will see the same as you travel through and beyond your crossroads :)

  7. juno
    August 25, 2008 8:42 am

    So glad for you…
    juno
    xx

  8. Angela in NC
    August 25, 2008 10:12 am

    Dearest Mabelle,

    First of all, let me thank you before I forget for another piece to this beautiful set…

    Next let me congratulate you on all you have achieved so far…You are truly a talented graphic designer, and any company could benefit from your designs and from your dedication…those of us that are regulars to your blog know just how dedicated you are to each and everything you do…

    And lastly, I congratulate you on the new companies who have been smart enough and lucky enough to add you as an asset to their company…

    My best wishes, thoughts and prayers are always with you hun…

    Thank you again Mabelle for the great addition!!!

    :::hugs & sisterly kisses:::
    Angela in NC

  9. Julie
    August 25, 2008 10:19 am

    OH! How wonderfull! You should be very proud of yourself, as we all are! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING SOME MORE!! :mrgreen:

  10. Tonya
    August 25, 2008 11:53 am

    WOW!!!! This “New Road” sounds very exciting…however long it lasts, do enjoy! For some reason I can never picture you without work for any length of time…with your talent! I am 41, and I can’t imagine having to deal with such a Crossroads as this, but it sounds like it is all working together for the good!
    Love,
    Tonya

  11. Renee
    August 25, 2008 12:26 pm

    Mabelle, it seems that new doors and windows are opening all around you, and I know you will have the courage to step into them and be delighted with what you find!

  12. Cindy King
    August 25, 2008 12:28 pm

    Things sound t=like they are turning around for you. That is great!

  13. Donna
    August 25, 2008 12:58 pm

    Wow! BIG Congrats to you!!!! You deserve every bit of blessings that come your way. :)

  14. Pia from Sweden
    August 25, 2008 1:11 pm

    Wonderful. Thank you so much for Joy In Your Pocket. Hugs, Pia from Sweden

  15. Janine
    August 25, 2008 4:25 pm

    :grin: Well, I have to tell you Mabelle, YOU are one of my joys. I thank you so much for sharing your journey and process, as well as your wonderful art. I too find myself at a crossroads now with my daughter, and some health issues she has. The options to help her, all seem to really turn my life upside down. Your words really struck me then, when you said; “I have no idea how far this new road is taking me but I plan to travel it with joy and surrender.” I so want to exercise that much faith, and have ‘joy and surrender’ to be guided down a path that seems very overwhelming right now. You are such a good example to me, like you’re walking the path, calling back encouraging words as I struggle along. Thank you so much for that.
    I’m SO happy for you with the new opportunity. You have prepared well for the journey. I wish you every success.
    Too many hugs to click! :lol:

  16. juno
    August 25, 2008 5:07 pm

    Mabelle, had to come back here to say a big “Thank You” and a “Wow!” because I have just unzipped Crossroads II. It is a grey, dull morning here and the joy of opening up these dazzling colours and happy patterns! Love the textures! Love the ribbons! Love the quilt patches!
    juno
    xx

  17. Rene
    August 25, 2008 5:08 pm

    Blessing on your desiding if you can go to any directing of life. Hug and loves to your midlife.

  18. crigs
    August 25, 2008 5:27 pm

    When one door closes another opens, or another 4 in your case. That is just wonderful for you.

  19. Laura
    August 25, 2008 6:28 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing your crossroads experiences! Being over 40 at very much at a crossroads myself you give me hope that if I keep my faith and continue in my efforts to move forward things will be brighter in my future as well.

  20. Carol
    August 25, 2008 6:36 pm

    hello mabelle,
    thank you for such a cute pocket which is really joy-filled.

    it’s really sad to hear that your closest friend is leaving you in the company; i know how it feels; its really devastating. But it doesnt mean that you wont be seeing each other again right?? Im sure you’d get to see her soon. :grin:
    I think the 4 new company who requested you to work with them is the new path that opened to you at the crossroad. Good luck!!

    (p.s. Ive finally gotten my domanin name)

  21. Indy
    August 25, 2008 7:28 pm

    Congratulations Mabelle! So glad that you have moved past the crossroads you were faced with and have been blessed with even greater responsibility. We must not stop believing in ourselves and in God’s plans for us.

    You are a very strong and wise woman, and you impart your strength to all of us. You have a gift and you are so blessed for sharing it.

  22. Donna
    August 25, 2008 8:04 pm

    Oh, Mabelle, I’m so glad that things are looking up for you! Congrats on your new contracts! I’m sure great things are just around the bend! Appreciate the pocket! and i’m off to order the kit!- I’m rewarding myself for making it through 2 weeks and 2 days without smoking! Have a wonderful week!

    Donna

  23. Sharon-shutterbug
    August 25, 2008 8:31 pm

    Sounds like the Lord not only opened a window for you, He’s blowing out the entire side of the building! If only we could all learn to trust in His goodness more and in our own capabilities less.

    Thanks for infusing a bit of joy into all of our lives! :smile:

  24. grammy201
    August 25, 2008 9:00 pm

    Hi Mabelle,

    Love the pocket; thank you!

    I enjoyed reading your post; thanks so much for always keeping us up to date. I always enjoy hearing how things are going. Congratulations! You are up and running; I’m so happy that you have the new companies but I’m also happy that the old company still needs you. Goes to show that your work speaks for itself and that you don’t need someone you know that’s working there to promote it. I’m so happy the way things have gone for you! Lots of wonderful changes for you this past year!
    As always will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

    (((hugs)))
    grammy201

  25. Robbie
    August 25, 2008 9:16 pm

    I don’t know how I ‘stumbled’ on your web site. I can only guess/believe it was by ‘divine intervention. I only know you and your work/words have added joy/sparkle/insight to my own life.

    I,too,have passed through many crossroads in my life- as have so many others. Having 5 grown daughters whom I love dearly, but who have not made good choices in spouses/life styles has added tremendous stress to me as I’ve dealt with my personal crossroads. At some ‘lowest points’ life did not seem worth going on- too dark and painful.With the help of our maker and my loving spouse, I was able to pass through the gloom into the sunshine.

    Mabelle, your emails and beautiful designs are NOW part of that sunshine i see periodically when I turn on my computer. I owe you so very many thanks I will never be able to send them to you. Love, Robbie

  26. Sharon M.
    August 25, 2008 9:38 pm

    Mabelle,

    Congratulations on a job well-done and congratulations on the new job.

    Crossroads can be scary, but they often turn out better than the old way. Obviously, this was your case. I know you feel that self pride that you deserve.

    Thank you for the cute pocket addition to the kit.

    Sharon

  27. txbubbles
    August 25, 2008 10:24 pm

    Dearest Mabelle,
    Thanks so much for the cute pocket, I love the whole Crossroads line. Ladies, if you haven’t bought it yet, you are missing out! Congrats on your new journey!
    Hugs and prayers,
    Vicki in Texas

  28. bl
    August 25, 2008 11:17 pm

    Best of luck with all your future projects! Thanks so much for the lovely freebie.

  29. grannymike
    August 26, 2008 2:29 am

    Thank you so much for the cute, cute pocket and the pretty sampler. I loved seeing your new kit and the layout. I’m so glad life is going well for you. I always enjoy reading your posts. Thanks again.

  30. Ann
    August 26, 2008 3:36 am

    Congratulations on your new adventure and continuing the old! What an awesome time in your life. Your words are an inspiration to many. I hope that when my next crossroads come I will be strong in my faith and as positive as you! Thank you for the darling pocket!!!

  31. kathleena in Maine
    August 26, 2008 9:09 am

    My employer is a supermarket and I just hate that we have those bags! I know all retailers do except the “green” ones but I don’t like them. All my plastic bags go to recycle and we have very little waste in our house that goes to the trash, most is recycled. Thanks once again for the delightful free add -on. Hugs to you in your new adventures – I myself have a job interview tomorrow! Nancy

  32. Stephanie
    August 26, 2008 9:56 am

    Congrats Mabelle! I am so happy for you. Just keep on walking the road your on, until the Lord directs you elsewhere!
    Love and Hugs,
    Stephanie

  33. SuziQinTX
    August 26, 2008 11:41 pm

    Mabelle, I’m am so happy for you, what a wonderful journey you are traveling! Thank you for the cute pocket.

  34. Ginger
    August 27, 2008 1:00 am

    Mabelle, I am in a huge rush this am with my husband tapping his foot at me, but I could not quit before I thank you so very much for all your words of inspiration that I find reading your blog. A big..big hug coming your way. Gotta go