Everything Is Going Swimmingly

Can you believe that the dreaded first day of the traditional work week has arrived once again?  Yes, it is Monday already.  Surprise!  My day started off swimmingly!  Yes, it's 100% true.  You see, this morning was my sons' last  swimming lesson for the Summer.  Sitting beside the pool and baking in the heat for the past two weeks while my boy swam, left me feeling a bit jealous.  Thankfully, after today's final lesson I was able to join my boys for the open swim pool party!  Nice warm pool water on a sunny summer day felt amazing.  

As our swimming lessons come to a close, I am amazed at how far my boys have come in such a short amount of time.  M removed himself from the steps after 2 days of fear induced sitting.  His instructor was able to bring him out into the water a number of times during those first couple of days, but he was terrified to do much else.  Today, he didn't want to get out of the pool!  He may not be ready to lose the swim training device and kick board, but the tears and nerves have certainly left him.  

O was also very nervous about pool time when he began.  He went from saying "I can't," to saying "watch this!"  Seeing him pick up on the actual swimming strokes and technique leaves me feeling amazed at much he's accomplished.  

My boys lessons of conquering fears and embracing their courage has been a wonderful inspiration to me.  As many of you know, putting yourself in a position where it's sink or swim, fail or succeed, makes you feel very vulnerable.  However, giving up before you try is not a good option.  

With these thoughts running through my mind over the past couple of weeks, I made a decision to step into a role that I've considered for some time.   I'm extremely nervous to fall flat on my face, but who isn't when they are trying something new?  While embracing my ultimate crafter heart, I'm stamping into the roll of a Stampin' Up! demonstrator!

If I'm not suited for this position, I don't know who is.  I love creating cards, scrapbooking, and doing all sorts of different crafts.  As I browse through crafting blogs, I am quick to notice many of the projects I fall in love with are created with Stampin' Up!  products.  They are so versatile and everything coordinates easily.  The best part about it...  it is FUN!  

My Stampin' Up demonstrator website should be up and running soon and you will be able to find the link here on my blog.  I will also update melindamarie.com with the information.  In the near future, I am planning on doing workshops, classes, and possibly even oline/video classes.

My dear friend Ally has encouraged me to step into this role for a long time.  Friends and family members have also boosted my confidence and pushed me towards this new adventure.  I can't wait to get started!

Have you taken on anything new lately?  Do you have any big announcements to share?  How is your day stacking up so far?  Are you longing for Friday to make a speedy return?  Do you have a quiet week ahead?  

Are you interested in having a Stampin' Up workshop with your friends and/or family?  Are you interested in taking a traditional/online class with me in the future?  Do you want to get crafty with me?  

Happy Birthday today to my husband Chris!

I love you!  xoxo

I'm looking forward to catching up with all of my blogger friends this week as I check out all the latest posts!