My Hobby Turns into a Career

My story began about 20 years ago when a friend invited me to a scrapbooking afternoon, which I really enjoyed. Since then I've dabbled in this creative exercise at a few different places.

But then I suffered the empty nest syndrome. As a single mum of 3 all the kids had flown the nest. Being disabled in a wheelchair I sought out friendship at the local respite centre where I made some life long friends and met a lady who taught me all about scrapbooking. Tracey, who I owe a huge debt of thanks, was my mentor teaching me many aspects of this wonderful papercraft.

I continued creating my own unique pages and met up with a group of like minded people at Helensvale, near the Gold Coast. These ladies meet every Wednesday evening for two hours using mixed mediums to produce our lovely work.

But I was looking for more of a challenge and I came across a terrific bunch of ladies meeting at a hall in Algester. This was an all day event with like minded people. I was in my happy place. I had found my new family. At first I was a little nervous but was soon welcomed into the caring arms of this wonderful group of ladies.

I then joined the group as a demonstrator (creative Memories) on a hobbyist level only at first. Soon gaining my confidence showing the ladies my pages or tips i had learned. Selling a few things at first helped me gain the lift I needed to go to the next step. My first attempt was to try the markets to get my name out there but the very early mprnings, rain and lack of people was daunting.

So next was to try classes where my good mate and loyal friend Jennine who supported me all the way. Not only is she my best mate but also my carer who gets me fired up in the morning getting me ready to face another exciting day. She showed a keen interest in the craft and I began to teach her all the tips and tricks I had learned. She has become a confident and talented scrapbooker who is now an intergral part of my scrapbooking team. Having learnt how to master the art of the puches and cutters makes my life easier whilst teaching a class. Jennine assists me with setup, baking tasty treats for morning tea and assisting the ladies with their pages. I would be lost without her help and friendship.

A quick mention too of my other carers who come every day assisting me with my needs and keeping my house in great shape ready for my days that I teach classes too. If Jennine is unwell they are always willing to jump in and lend a hand in whatever I am needing help with. Thanyou Lois, Leanne and Desley for all that you do.

Since seperating from my husband 3 months ago, my carers have supported me in extra ways so I can still fullfill my dream to teach others the art I love. Like driving me places in the car to pick up supplies, organising the setup or just boosting my morale if I'm having a few challenges that day.

The classes were held at home teaching a few intellectually disabled girls and their carers.This has been happening for over a uear now teaching 1 to 2 classes a month. I've never been happier teaching something I love to other people. One day I aspire to be like my very supportive upline Kathryn having enough ladies to fill a hired hall full of talented ladies of my very own.

We attend 12 hour crops and weekends away at camp with plenty of time to scrap as well as an afternoon drinky with nibbles. I have also been asked to run my own house of ladies twice next year, in 2022, a big step up for me. I am totally wrapped that I was asked to take this on.

Until then I will keep learning and teaching, as I am confident with lots of hard work I will get there.