Craft with Me - Decorating My Autumn Journal

Today I'm decorating my Tracie Fox design team project autumn journal. I used two of her kits - Sweet Harvest and Slendid Nature. Thanks for crafting with me!
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[@tabathawalker692]

I'ts horrible to feel overwhelmed when your doing something you love. Thats when the joy starts fading. You've made the right decision for sure. 💖💖💖

[@suzanneproulx8768]

We all need to slow down and enjoy our lives! The pressure you on yourself is too much, the idea is to do what brings you joy. It’s good to re-evaluate to what works for you and your family. Have fun in your silver years❤️

[@jenlitscreations]

Happy to hear you are taking more time for you and your hubby. We spend our entire life working for these moments.

[@carolynchatham6338]

You sound so cheerful and you are finally doing what you said at the first of the year...this is the year of doing what you want to do not what you feel you have to do. I’m happy for you my friend. Love and hugs from Louisiana

[@bernicechiniborch2600]

Glad you are feeling good about your decision. We should all live our lives in our own way but it is hard to do when you are such a caring person like you. Thank you for sharing your talents, your time and your family with me, I do appreciate it.

[@karenpruis501]

What a lovely project. Also, good on you for making a decision that takes the stress out of your life and the craft room. It means you can support these other artists with out the pressure. regards Karen.

[@nancykirk8913]

Good for you Gayle, the decision to cut back on 'obligations' to have more free and enjoyable time for you and for spending with hubby is such (in my humble opinion) just what you'll need to be able to just do what you want to and when you want to!!!! As a retiree for many years now, we have earned that right and the freedom is exhilarating!!!! You go for it my dear friend, and live life your way...grandkids, grown kids, trips to visit, retreats, sleeping late, journaling, muse ideas????, crafting and us subies when ever you feel like it!!!!!! Ah, true bliss!!!! Hugs to a very caring, dear, kind person with the heart of gold!!! Squishy hugs from me!!!

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

Thank you, my lovely friend! 😘❤️

[@theresasuttle711]

Such a lovely journal!!!!! I’m glad you are taking care of your self by limiting your obligations! Keep it fun and relaxing! A great big cyber hug for you taking care of you!!!!!

[@robinpowell2712]

Beautiful journal. Just love it and the special details. Nothing wrong with cutting back. Less stress equals more joy!

[@crafterdeidra]

You do what's best for you & your hubby. Your dt people will totally understand why you want to back down from being on their dt. I love watching you create the ephemera & tags plus putting together your journals. Great video as always. Thanks for sharing with us!

[@Shelby-uw2tt]

What a bunch we are that our friends give us old falling apart books and scraps of lace and fabric and we are so thrilled to receive it! I got old Readers Digests for my birthday and was so happy about it. LOL. 😂

[@MinxysStudioUK]

My Mum came over with a birthday card for me earlier this evening and as soon as I opened it, she said "I got that one as I figured you could do something with it afterwards" ... she wasn't kidding either, the front of it has a stunning design that I can cut off and use as a stencil lol

[@ThePaperOutpost]

I love your fall color palette for this journal! I love those little orange scissors! I have the same pair and swear by them! :) : ) Pam :) !!

[@donnakinmn1683]

Oh Gayle, I totally understand your need to cut back a little. I retired about a year ago and every day I wonder where the day went. I feel like there's not enough time for all the things I want to do. I don't even have a husband or children that need my attention - just a couple of kitties that would like to be petted all day. Your husband sounds like a wonderful and supportive guy. Glad you will still be sharing yourself with us.

[@erika3293]

Beautiful kits from Tracie and what a beautiful Autumn journal. TFS Gayle

[@tracielinz8385]

I'm still plugging away on the multiple journals from your videos. I'm working on 8 and it's a lot for me. Every day I have such a new appreciation for the things that you do, you are amazing.❤

[@Jeannette.akaJnett]

I'm glad that you made a decision for you. It's hard sometimes to say no, but we need to. May you enjoy finishing up the rest of your commitments and then moving on to doing something that brings you joy (not that what you're doing now doesn't). Mental health is as important as physically taking care of ourselves. My hubby retired at 58 from Ford Motor. I worked from home and I continued to do so for 10 years from home. He sacrificed much for me to continue to working. i'm very glad I finally made the decision to quit taking anymore contracts. It was impeding on "our" time and I found it not fair to him to continue. It's been two years now and I'm glad I made the decision I did. I hope you find the same for yourself, hubby and family.

[@tinlizzie4444]

Hi Gayle!! First of all, I'm glad to hear that your youngest grandson is doing so well. Your autumn journal is coming along nicely....can't wait to see it completed!! You've made a good decision....it's not fun anymore when crafting does become a chore!! TFS!! Hugs, Liz:)

[@michelletrevethan9945]

Thank you for sharing, love your videos, well done you for being honest, life is very precious and time spent with your family is priceless, enjoy your life and do what you want to do xx

[@gionun8950]

Love your journal cover & embellishments. That little sticker looks like a red panda. Tfs

[@patversteeg1667]

And your family comes first, the newest grandchild and the other grands have their sports and your traveling. Yes my dear, you and hubby come first, enjoy each other. You worked 40+ years for this time in your lives.. Loved time w you tonight

[@belindaosgood]

So happy you've made that decision which will ensure you enjoy the creative process. Good for you and good for us so we can share your joy as you continue on whatever and wherever the arty winds carry you. May your creative wings be blessed with inspiration and variation (while sustaining that life balance we all need to pay attention to) - it is such a blessing to us, your viewers.

[@tfntexas]

Great video Gayle! Can’t wait to see the final flip though...your friend will love it!

[@marilyntorsch3970]

Love the way this journal is coming together. Thank you for sharing 🤗

[@constancehumphries1940]

Love this journal ... turning out to be an autumn beauty love the scalloped edged lacey ribbon

[@lorigoodman3780]

I know it wasn't easy for you to leave the design teams and I am glad the ladies were understanding. Life is to short not to be happy and do all the things you want to do. I can't speak for your other subbies, but I looked at every shop you mentioned. It didn't matter to me if you were on the design team or not. I have favored 90% of the shops and bought from 75% of the shops. If I had a bigger wallet I would have bought from all of them... I am excited to see what you do in the new year and will continue to check out shops you mention and support as many as I can.... Maybe for fun you can do a raffle on this journal?? All though if all 28.9K of us subbies wanted a number. You would be counting until Jan. 1st. lol Anyways keep being you, I'm proud of you!! Hugs!!

[@cammiegarrison4173]

Woohoo, Gayle and coffee. Great way to start the day!

[@maggieflatt9686]

Sometimes we just have to do what is best for our self, even though our first instinct is to give to others. You will be much better because of it. I am anxious to see what your creations will be. I'm betting better than ever. Thanks for sharing.

[@lyndafleetwood5771]

My brother often brings me a little bit he found that he thinks I can use and I say Yes - thank you. I can use that! Very nice journal Gayle. I love the fall colors.

[@gwenkatzman5227]

Loving the journal! Looking forward to seeing what you’re doing new next year. Glad you’re respecting your need to Chillax as my kids would say. The sticker looked like a red panda.

[@lacreshaflowers5421]

So pretty! So sweet of you to do this for your 💓 friend that wasn't feeling well.🤗😇 I was working right along in my " Fall Journal" . 😊

[@artzology]

Such a beautiful journal! The cover is gorgeous! TFS!

[@lunitatj]

Love your videos they are never "too long" ... I'm also ready for Christmas journals, can't wait.

[@fanshopper8722]

I like your autumn journal. You're friend will be very happy. I'm looking forward to see the christmas journal your planning too do. 👍🙂

[@noradunlap7539]

Gorgeous Journal & Cover! TFS! Blessings ❤️

[@jbeaudi]

It was fun seeing you use all the ephemera you made in your book. I feel like September and October are fall months and as soon as November 1st hits its Christmas time! I'm trying to remember where all my Christmas junk journal goodies are!

[@jeannieferdinande5805]

Thank you so much for sharing your heart❤️taking time to slow down and enjoy is so important, we get on a roll and need to stop peddling so fast❤️coast for awhile and enjoy those walks with Mr. A❤️🐇🐇🐇🐇hugs from Minnesota ❤️

[@lalagamma4452]

Wonderfully delightful my artist friend!! You always make such beautiful Journals. I was gone for a retreat, then I went to my daughter's to hang out with the kiddos while they were out of town. It's so good to beable to catch up on your vids. I missed our chats!! I understand meeting to spend a little more time with the hubby I cut back on a lot of my KZbin and other activities when I'm not working so I can have more time with my honey.💜✌️☮️💛

[@sandraeilenstine287]

Love all the colors in this journal.

[@rhondamarshall7039]

I know your decision for the future is the best for you. I hope you will be able to relax and enjoy doing more of the projects you are wanting to do. Hugs.

[@lauragaudry3402]

Gayle, so glad to hear you are making choices to reduce the stress! Your art should always be because you want to create, not to fulfill an obligation. Can’t wait to see what your Muse is calling to you, hopefully you will share. It was hard to see but I think your “fox” may be a red panda. Blessings. ❤️

[@glendaanderson5639]

I love the cover I bet it feels so nice. Beautiful!❤️

[@eileenammendolea1776]

I really think you made the best decision about giving up the design team projects. It's really upsetting when things start to feel overwhelming. You have to take care of yourself and do what is best for you and your family. Enjoy your new found freedom and I am looking forward to crafting along with you via KZbin when you venture into new artistic creations. 💙P.S. The fall journal is looking fabulous!

[@CarolMartineArt]

You were sharing many of the thoughts I have beem mulling, Gayle....iI have been accepted on my first design team, which made me sooo happy - but there only so many hours in a day. And I have so many ideas for the new year....don't ever want my art/sharing to become a job of work. Keeping the fun alive, Carol

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

Yay, Carol! Congrats! You’ll enjoy it! I enjoyed it for three years. Just time for a change. Have fun and enjoy your new relationship with the designer!! ❤️

[@1thess416and17]

I love love love your channel! I am making my very first journal! I have been getting prepared for about a month.... thank you, what a great help!

[@noragundersen7601]

Good work as always👍 I am so glad you think more about yourself ❤️

[@veronicawhite398]

Lovely birthday video, Gayle. Just you, me and a snoozy Sunday. Ahh, nice! 👍🎂🍾🥳😴😉

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

Happy Birthday! ❤️

[@veronicawhite398]

@@gayleagostinelli_ct Thankyou. ❤

[@kessell637]

I’m glad you’re finding some boundaries to help you keep the joy in journal making. I’m still awestruck that you answer every comment we leave. Hugs! 💐

[@lilliescraftycorner4899]

Love crafting while I watch your channel

[@donnajenks7361]

OMGoodness I have been away for a month and holy moly, I got to watch all of your videos now...Gayle I ❤️ you so much!!!

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

Yay! We will be spending some quality time together!! 😘❤️

[@barblydell9800]

Gayle, I know you know how fast those grandkids are growing up but just a reminder there's another "empty nest" in your future, so enjoy every minute with those kids! I was ready for my first empty nest but this second one came too fast and was a little shocking! Good for you protecting your precious time!

[@Kpattee]

Gayle I can totally relate to your backing down on some stuff. I think when we’re asked to do so much we’re more focused on trying to get it all done, I don’t know about you but when I’m asked to do so much my creativity becomes stagnant. So cudos to you.

[@wendyjackson5976]

Well done Gayle for making such a hard but very important decision.......your own health and well-being is so important and sometimes we have to put ourselves first !.....you need some well earned breathing space and some well deserved you time 😘😘😘

[@plannersparkle8352]

Love your journal ! It’s beautiful 😍

[@vanessarussell7997]

The journal is coming out beautiful. Hope you enjoy your time doing other things. I am like you there isn't enough time in the day to do all the things I want to do. Have a bless and wonderful day.

[@sovannamaccha9811]

it's the first time i comment on your channel, and there is so much i would like to tell you. i watch your youtubes ever since i detected you, must be a good half of a year ago now, and lately i've been following you and your projects nearly every day. so adding to many many complements i have for you, i wish to congratulate you on your decision, to cut back your commitments. i'm sure you will bloom and blossom for it. i'll keep admiring you and your work.

[@debbiehamdutchridgeprimiti3695]

You are so fortunate to have so many customers

[@jeanneblondewomanstamping9788]

Glad to hear you are going to limit DT work and concentrate on the journals you want to do. Can’t wait to see what’s been on your list! 🤗😘

[@linniemichalak4696]

Hi Gayle. I’m going to get out my Sewing Machine Thanks to you. Your a very Encouraging person thank you

[@theramblincrafter]

Absolutely beautiful, Gayle! Love this SO much! Big, Big hugs!

[@jetwasik1648]

Love it when you work on journals. My favorite thing that you do!

[@aartjekreeft3166]

Hello Gayle, if only there were more hours in a day!! Just keep doing what you feel is the right thing. Love the project.

[@neorachana5604]

Family and health first.....so your decision is completely understandable. Sometimes I had wondered if you were feeling a bit rushed or pressured so am glad you are taking care of yourself. And that Bucky is doing so good!

[@michelledekker7654]

Oh wow, that cover is so awesome! So unique and I love it!!!!

[@donnahunter3488]

Journaling should be fun not a chore. It takes all the enjoyment out of what you love if you don’t have the freedom to create!

[@iamwhatiam4075]

Journal is looking lovely! :) tyfs

[@laurasitlington1414]

I love that bug fabric on inside cover.

[@gwenloveless]

Red Panda, love seeing them at our zoo! Also you will be on the DT SUPPORT team!

[@tracyvernon2426]

It's a red panda Gayle :)I know exactly what you mean when you say you have to be in the craft room! I used to make lots of things to sell,from cards to decorated candles,there's no fun in it when it becomes a chore :) It's going to be my last Christmas fayre this year, from then on I'm just going to craft for me!. Enjoy time with your husband,it's very precious xx

[@becky1789]

I love when Iam gifted falling apart books ...love your work gayle...

[@karensumner3772]

I JUST KNOW YOUR FRIEND WILL LOVE THIS JOURNAL-ITS SO PRETTY,AND VERY SPECIAL BECAUSE YOU MADE IT-I HOPE SHE WILL FELL BETTER SOON-TFS-LOVE YOU-HUGS/BLESSINGS

[@jennharts1]

Love this journal and also love how your pieces that you already have made just fits perfectly!!!! Good job Gayle!!! Also, just want to say I think your decision to stop the design teams was a good one. I can hear the joy in your voice that you made the right decision.

[@sunshinelynable]

Sunday morning here in Oz and I'd just made myself a coffee,returned in time to watch you giving me call out. Sunshinelynable is a mouthful I know but my name is Linda and I'm from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Really enjoyed watching you filling up the journal with ephemera and seeing it come to life. I was having a laugh when you were talking about Bucky's weight because my youngest Sarah, now 41yrs, was 14lb born. I could hardly lift her to feed her lol Sending big hug xx

[@AurorasJournals]

Beautiful journal!! 😍

[@dawnatpadamocrafts1970]

Gayle, crafting should always be a joy not a chore...you certainly earn't the right to 'play' xxx

[@travelingmntngal7963]

Hi Gayle! We spent the day with very lovely weather and walking along the beaches of Lake Ontario at the local State Parks. This was our last day here and we are heading home Sunday. This is a beautiful kit. I really love the pages. I bought a mini booklet kit that has the same pictures in it from Etsy. And the laces you are using are just gorgeous! Love them! I can relate so much to how you are feeling about getting things done. And something that is a joy need not ever become a chore. Do whatever you need to do, Gayle, so you can keep the joys in your life just that. There's a whole lot of understanding woman out here. Have you thought about just doing a video every other day? Or just doing them and then letting us know when the next will air? Just a few thoughts as I am concerned. My daughter slept in after only 3 weeks when she first came home from the hospital. I literally thought there was something wrong with her, because my son was about a year and half and he still was waking up every night. But nope, there was nothing wrong; just her personality, which she maintained her whole growing up years. So, I agree, I think Bucky is going to be a really easy going guy that is going to bring many happy moments to all your lives. Such a gorgeous journal. Really like this one. But then again, I'm a nature kind of gal and it has my favorite color scheme. So, just lovely. Very lovely. I may have to get this kit from Tracy. It's amazing how all the ephemera you've been working on fit so well in this. Really nice job, Gayle. Well, I need to get to bed. Up late and it'll be a day of traveling. About six hours to get home; not too bad. But still, when you are pulling a trailer, it can be a little unnerving. Hope you have a great Sunday! Big hug! God Bless! Sue

[@marthamanigross]

Hi Gayle! I love your cover mat. I ended up getting hooked on Andreas junk in the trunk #15 as well, but minus the book pages. Book pages and I don’t get along well, lol. I love seeing you put the pockets and tuck spots etc in as well as ephemera. I struggle with that part most. Love the suede pockets! I was looking forward to knowing what you were going to do to help cut back on crafting commitments, hadn’t even thought about all the design teams you’re on, so it makes sense. I hope giving those up helps you balance your time better. Commitments are stressful. I know the designers were disappointed but you gotta watch out for you and your family. Deer - we struck one on a very busy high speed highway last year in PA - at 10:30 a.m.! We were in our RV and it was messed up pretty badly. Not a great experience and now, I’m always watching for deer. You’re right, it’s exhausting! Thank you for sharing with us once again, how easy it can be to decorate the inside of a journal, even though a lot of us struggle with it. Take care my friend. Hugs.

[@Jenny-W1910]

this autumn journal is gorgeous, luv all the ephemera pieces. i'm sure it was a hard decision about DT, but it sounds like you did the right thing. we stretch ourselves so thin sometimes. it's good to hit the pause button and re-evaluate what we want, what we need. you have been an amazing DT rep for so many shops gayle, i know they all appreciate it and so have we. you mentioned getting excited about christmas journals, are you doing DD this year? the Blacklist! that's my all time fav show! keeps me on the edge of my seat every week. luv that Reddington, quite the character. big hugs :)

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

I am thinking of doing a December Daily! I need to get some other things done, then I’ll be thinking about that!! ❤️

[@Jenny-W1910]

@@gayleagostinelli_ct you might need to do a ring bound journal-i remember last year got quite "chunky" 😉 i might do that style, i could simply punch holes in cards, etc. still thinking it over.

[@rebekahevans4642]

The sticker you were wondering about is I believe is a red panda. I've seen one a zoo. They are small climb trees and have color similar to a fox. They are really cute. I'm looking forward to you being able to make journals that have no design boundaries now that you are no longer doing DT projects. An artist with no boundaries travels a path of self discovery. Can't wait to travel with you.

[@jbeaudi]

Rebekah Evan's, it is a red panda. The Cincinnati zoo has babies that are adorable!

[@danacolosimo5874]

Love it … turned out fantastic … I love how you have most things on the ready teehee thank you so much for sharing :)

[@lindaclausen5477]

Good morning Gayle❤️ I’m loving this❣️😍❤️

[@andreastewart5722]

Beautiful journal!

[@marylocke8185]

Life is a series of adjustments as we grow and change. Making those adjustments to fit into life at each stage is essential. So adjust as needed and be ever thankful that you can. Be joyful about where you are putting your efforts. If your decision has freed up your creativity it was indeed the right one 🙂. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and creativity with us all. Have a blessed day!

[@MrsGigi]

A BIG thing but IMPORTANT for you. ❤️ you need to do what makes you happy. ❤️

[@janedilley9538]

Thanks love the journal.

[@lynnsinclair123]

Freeing yourself is a great idea. Anyway, it was either the design teams or the husband -- I think you made the right decision. Looking forward to your creations without boundaries.

[@billiejoethomason6075]

As we get older especially we realize we must set our priorities. Family always first, then our crafting etc. I think crafting should be fun & leisure time. I never commit to making anything on a time table. If we are pushed to finish it’s no longer fun or relaxing. We need time for our grandkids, siblings, spouses etc. The grandkids grow up so fast & are off on their own lives. Enjoy them while you can. Good decision. Relax. Take time to smell the roses. 🌹

[@Marilynlovesebiking]

I love all the tags and things you tucked in toward the last. I agreed with all your choices. LOL. You have such nice items to tuck in. I want to make some similar. Oh, and yes, I think that little sticker is a fox. I went to our local thrift store today and found a small bag of what looks like coffee dyed lace. It is a collar of some sort. Sore...

[@carleen5705]

Hey again Gayle, I know I haven’t commented in ages have not been feeling well started chemo again. But I still watch all your videos. Love cover panel on this journal. I hope tomorrow I feel well enough to get back to Journal I am working on. It is 3.13 am here in Australia, it is lovely to craft with you lots of ideas.

[@lindanagle3796]

Good, Good morning Gayle!! ❤❤ You know we all support your decisions. You need time for you. I'm sure the decision you made was a very tough one. Glad to hear you felt relief from a major decision. We always worry about what the people on the other end are going to say. Been there before. Only to find out I worried about nothing. 😊 Can't wait to see what other crafting adventures await. Hugs to you. ❤❤

[@donnaselwood1525]

I had to make a similar decision a few Christmas’s ago with commissions. The year I made over 50 personalised cushions and 10 quilts in a space of 12 weeks had me too drained to enjoy the season. You need to have fun and take those Nana naps :-D

[@craftydawk.janettedawkins7516]

I hear you. Never enough time My husband does everything except dinner at night. That’s my one house job. He does all housework cleaning washing garden. He’s a treasure and I’m not parting with him. Having some health issues is a factor. I’m nowhere near s famous as you but I do feel for you. Go girl and do wha you have to for yourself and your Mr A 🥰❤️🥰

[@janb2162]

GAYLE, I, too, have recently had to cut back on somethings I love. I need to make more time for my husband ,who is facing new health issues. You will never regret giving your loved one that extra attention; and just taking a mid-day brake to place your feet up and just do nothing!

[@SammiJarrad]

I think the sticker is a red panda. Yes, all kids grow up way too fast. I hope you continue to feel lighter, and only craft when you want to. Hugs! 😘💜💜

[@waboosje]

Lovely, thanks

[@WoodlandInspired]

Love the journal and all its goodies but I have to say that cookbook you received has to be old I have never seen that one before how cool. Tyfs

[@koriefrith7384]

Just remember you choose to be busy. I hate when people say that they are so busy and can't fit everything in which is,.... life, ,craft, family etc . Like you choose to be on you tube .... you can also stop making so many you tubes just as easily ( This is just as example . Please this message was not written to offend you . By no means that was my intention. But you do need to see it from another angle. This is coming from a young lady that actually had life burn out from doing so much. I received some help and have been taught so many great coping skills that I appreciate. Take time to smell the roses, Gayle . Love and Hugs xo

[@Gumygum62]

Its a red panda sticker. So cute

[@thepaperpile]

I would looooove to see you do some more gelli plating.

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

We’ll have to pull out the ol’ Gelli plate soon! ❤️

[@Freespiritarts]

I thought for sure since my notifications were on that I would get to your Etsy in time to get the postal cards....nope! Some people have lightening fast fingers😉

[@connieschwalm5154]

Beautiful work Gayle, I like the “cover plate” idea and I really enjoyed seeing you using an image from that old cookbook. I bought an old church in my hometown and I’ve set up a kind of running “flea market” in it. My hope is that I can display and sell some of my journals etc there. (Hope to sell online too. But would like to introduce folks here to junk journals! Very few around here have ever heard of them!!) One of the things I’d like to sell in the church is a “junk cookbook/journal”. I found a mint copy of the (pretty popular) cookbook that this congregation put out in the 1940’s. So I’d like to redo it “junk journal” style and I want to use images from other old cookbooks that I have when I do that. Enjoy your day (and your estate sale)!