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Sunday 23 February 2014

T is for

This post may appear a little later than usual, not because of the techno gremlins but I have been having a play day with friends and became somewhat distracted.

Today it is time for the letter 'T' which stands for 'Try'. This word was a suggestion made to me very recently and I have actually substituted the word I was going to use. 

What does the word 'Try' mean to you apart from being something to do with scoring in rugby? There is nothing wrong if you try to do something but don't succeed. It's very easy to say 'I can't do this' or 'I don't like' that without ever trying. It often takes a lot more effort, guts and determination to try; even more so if you get knocked back. There are many people to be admired for continuing to try, to keep coming back for more. However, there is something that can be counter productive; here's an example.

How many of you got 'must try harder' on their school report? And actually, how demotivating was that comment? As crafters one of the things we are all guilty of at some time or another is trying too hard. We have surrounded ourselves with crafty stash, sat down at the table and then everything we stamp, colour, ink, cut out fails to strike the right note. We aren't happy with any of our creations and our confidence takes a knock. I know, I've been there. And it's okay, you don't have to produce a stunning piece of artwork every time you sit down with a stamp or colouring pencil in your hand. The more you force yourself the less creative you will be.
My tag today is one that I made some time ago.

The leaves from Woodland Dreams were stamped using a selection of dye based inks. I then stamped several more onto another piece of card, cut them out, dusted Perfect Pearls over the top and attached them to the tag using foam pads.

The sentiment, also from Woodlands Dreams, was then stamped, cut out, edged with ink and finally attached with more foam pads.

This tag was very simple to make, but quite effective don't you think.

I'll finish with this, the next time you find yourself not achieving the goals you set for yourself don't stop trying, just stop trying too much.

See you tomorrow




PS Thanks to my best buddy Glenda for today's word

8 comments:

rachel said...

hi there Lesley - love your thoughts on the word try - so very true. And your tag is gorgeous xx

Sarah said...

Love the autumnal feel to this one Lesley - those leaves really pop. Sarah x

jackiescrafts said...

Morning Lesley, your tag is lovely and your thoughts on the word try are very true
Enjoy the rest of your weekend
Jackie x

Doreen said...

Love your tag Lesley,as usual fabulous words of wisdom....My T for today though has to be T for Thrilled.xxx

Paula (PEP) said...

You've used one of my favourite leaf stamps from CB - very effective indeed. More wise words - the trying harder is one that's dogged me for years & I'm gradually learning that there are some things that, no matter how hard I try, are not going to be possible for me. The other aspect I am always reminding myself of is 'I can only fail if I don't try' - with the inherent attitude that by trying I shall find out if I want to pursue this or not - if I don't try I'll never know.
Paula (PEP)

Linda Simpson said...

Totally know what Try means and yes it was written on my school report too! Fabulous Tag as always.
Hugs
Linda xxx

vinny said...

lovely woodland themed tag and yes I think sometimes we overthink things and try too hard x Lavinia

Miranda said...

Your tag reminded me of that lovely leaf and how wonderful it was to colour that.......I won´t try to write more now.....xxMiranda