Life Update from Stephanie Soebbing and Quilt Addicts Anonymous ...

My friend Chantal, aka @sewfreakingawesome on Instagram went to QuiltCon and met a whole lot of you who are quite concerned about me.
So I thought it would be a good idea to come on here to give you all an update on where I'm at in my life and the future of Quilt Addicts Anonymous.
I talk about our huge business changes last year, my mental health struggles as I came to terms with the fallout and what is next for me and Quilt Addicts Anonymous.
If you'd like to learn more about the cruise I am teaching on this May, click here to get more info: sewtravelry.com/transatlantic...

[@anotherblonde]

An inch is a cinch, a mile is a trial. Even small steps get you on your way. I had a mini stroke in Feb 2020, lost my memory, speech, and use of right hand, but using my left hand and my feet at the sewing machine making quilts I got my brain and body back working. Just completed my 84th quilt yesterday. Thanks to your tutorials on YT it gave me the knowledge and courage to start quilting. Sending you positive energy now for your own full recovery. Namaste.

[@michellecarr5096]

Who cares about hair and makeup? You are who you are, a wonderful person who hit a rough patch. No one is perfect! You have a lot of talent and your followers will wait!❤

[@donnarobinson5133]

Praying for you. I started quilting 4 years ago at the age of 54. Your videos were some of my first learning videos I enjoyed tuning into. I am an empty nester and I can't even imagine trying to raise a family I this economy, much less through the Pandemic we came through. There is nothing our Lord and Savior can't get us through. Thankful you are seeing light at the end of the tunnel. 🙏🙏🙏

[@recreational_sewciopath]

Thank you for your candor Stephanie. Best wishes for your health and happiness.💗

[@leticiagonzalez711]

You should be very proud of yourself for getting up, dusting yourself off and moving forward. We are all here for you. 🤗

[@margealbanese1818]

Stephanie, I know where you’re coming from and it’s rough. But I have two mantras that help me get through the rough spots: ‘One Step at a Time’ and ‘This too shall Pass.’ You will make it because you are a strong person. Hang in there…

[@LisaD-sl2dv]

Appreciate your openness and honesty in sharing your journey. You are helping others, and hopefully yourself, in being willing to share. Life is hard, messy, but so worth it for the moments that bring joy!

[@snapluka326]

Thank you for being so open with your mental health struggles. Good on you for setting and sticking with boundaries to take care of yourself. I am happy to see you back, but even happier to hear you are getting back to well. I am cheering for you!!!

[@martychapo996]

I’m very grateful for your openness. I know many of us will benefit from this video. Best of health to you!

[@CraftOnAndSewForth]

Glad to hear you're getting better. I had a business for over 10 yrs. I still miss it. After months of no sewingMOJO, I'm just getting back into it. As for makeup and hair., you are beautiful without it.

[@amycleal8530]

Me too ❤. I was in a car accident and my life has just exploded. I completely get it.

[@johannamurphy2104]

I think you’re amazing. Look at what you’ve done. You can do it all again. I understand depression. It’s horrible. Please hang in there and think of all the happiness you have brought us quilters!

[@virginiaharrison6711]

You are a brave young woman. Kudos to you for not giving up and finding a new path.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you Virginia, It's been a tough year.

[@DottyKupsky]

Having gone through some mental health crises myself, I am so grateful for your candor. There are many of us. Do what makes you happy. And know that you are always stronger than you think.

[@rebeccawolf3196]

Give yourself permission to grieve for your loss. It was a hard blow and it will probably take a while to be okay. We understand and are grateful you are so genuine in sharing your struggles. Sounds like positive changes are happening so that is a good thing to focus on. I wish I could afford to be on that cruise with you, sound like it will be so fun. Hopefully you will post something on the socials during the trip so we can live vicariously. Hugs and healing to you friend.

[@renatal1972]

I appreciate that you are taking care of yourself. During the lock down, I lost my dad and my father in law. I shut down and am finally coming back to myself in 2024. I stopped taking care of my self and my family because of grief. I quit sewing, and thankfully I found Theresa little stitcher and Becky from power tools with thread and you. You all brought me back and I’m now sewing/quilting again. So thank you

[@sherryaitcheson2154]

I know exactly how you are feeling, lost my Mom, April 2020 in the beginning of the lockdowns. And then lost my Mother-in-law at the end in May 2022 to it. We sold our house and moved into my 1930’s office, to downsize and get out from under a mortgage, then my hubby retired and he’s around 24/7 …. That takes so much to get use to! I did the same thing, shut down and was paralyzed in the creativity of my work, I’m an interior designer and I also make all the draperies, upholstery, etc…. As with you, all of these shows have helped so very much. We both need to take care of ourselves! We will get through this!

[@lucymull5105]

I have been haphazardly quilting for 20 years. I have learned so much from you. You are a great teacher. Keep evolving. The best is yet to come.

[@ceasewatercolorarts]

We're all still here. Really proud of you and pulling yourself up. You can do it - remember, we're all fighting a battle and so you're not alone. Honestly, I think I like your "vlog" type videos the best, so please keep sharing. You don't have to be all fancy. One camera, one angle is perfectly acceptable!

[@yvonnemckenna4192]

Thank you for being so honest about your financial and mental health struggles. ❤ You will look back on this time with more perspective and see the amazing things you’ve learned and lessons you’ve learned. Be kind to yourself 🙂

[@maureenconner6172]

God bless you. Prayers. Hang in there. Have missed you. Better days coming...

[@user-up6hv7ug4m]

Bless you, Stephanie. I am sorry about the additional stressors you've had to face. Thank you for the explanation. Glad you are feeling more like yourself, yourself is very likable and appreciated. I hope everything continues to improve for you and your family! Can't wait to see the new patterns.

[@carolrano8718]

Life is always change, especially for women. It's ok to slow down. Celebrate your success. Move forward at your speed. Love and hugs. 🤗💖

[@helenpeddycord2241]

Very best regards to you and your family Stephanie! Our prayers and patience continue for you as we await the exciting ventures you have planned❤️🧵 Please take care of YOU, first🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@kathieheath8716]

I completely understand the mental health struggles you spoke about. It’s a brave thing to talk about it in public. I admire you for being able to do it. Keep fighting. It’s worth it. Thanks so much for the update.

[@cathytyrrell5502]

Thank you Stephanie, you are wonderful and talented even when things are rough. Please imagine that you are your best friend and how you would respond to your video. You would be so kind and not be so hard on yourself. You are strong, talented and warm.

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

A little saying that is probably not enough for the gravity of what you’re going through, but always made me laugh during bad times: “Don’t sweat the petty stuff, and don’t pet the sweaty stuff.” It’s helped me prioritize the important things that I’ve been dealing with since my mom died on Christmas Day.

[@fraunielsson8046]

Dear Stephanie, until today I was a little bit sad that I will not be able to join the Transatlantic Cruise (financial reasons, and I‘m from Europe). But now I am only happy that YOU will be going on that cruise, meeting lots of great people, quilting and sightseeing 💚 Hang in there and take care!

[@sharonstarr6338]

Thank you for being courageous and sharing your challenges. Also thanks for your encouragement for us to pay attention to our mental health. So happy that you are improving. Prayers that this will continue!

[@annmorrison-th9lh]

Best wishes for your journey. Thank you for your openness.❤

[@donnadailey5062]

You're beautiful inside/out - no makeup is good, you're lovely. God bless you dear one. He has His hand on you and your family and you obviously are surrounded by many who love and appreciate you. I genuinely understand.

[@saravopat8280]

I can’t wait to check out your new book! I know things are rough right now but you seem to be persevering. Thanks for sharing your personal story and we all are praying for you and your family!

[@blairseibert1778]

Stephanie thank you for sharing real life with us. Everyone forgets that social media creators are human too!!

[@vickiparish9268]

I totally understand. Main thing is to take care of yourself. Depression is not to be ignored. Please stay focused on your mental health. I’m glad you’re back🤗. I’ll still be here ❤

[@AuntDi2]

Great to see you again. It’s humbling when you go from having a comfortable life with a stable income to not having that. My husband and I went through that eight years ago and it really is difficult. It took a lot to financially and emotionally to climb back up. It WILL happen for you, it just takes time. I send love and light to you and your family as you go through this journey. Love from Ohio 💞💞💞💞

[@lyneepestka5503]

I’ve watched you for years. I’m so glad to see you today. There are no words except all will be ok. You built something and have to mourn its loss. Sometimes these painful happenings are hidden blessings and I’m hoping all that for you and your family.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you very much Things are definitely starting to look better.

[@janhatchett7834]

As someone who has had depression throughout her adult life-I am proud of you! You got knocked down but you got back up! You are healing and taking the next steps forward. I look forward to watching your journey continue.

[@peggymayhew5319]

Stephanie thank you so much for updating us. Your bravery of sharing your struggle was well done, hopefully other women will take all of this and learn. We are all human and have weaknesses that come to a head during our lives. It is so important that we share our journeys so we can grow and get stronger. I am not going anywhere, stay strong and know you are loved by so many.

[@GrammyQuilts-td6qr]

Family and business struggles are not good for those of us who think we are in control. Give yourself a little grace. Do what you can, one day at a time. Praying for you!

[@gigiontube]

It’s a shame when we lose something we worked so hard for, without even being our fault. Many of us have been victims of circumstances in the past 3-4 years. Life is very fragile, that’s for sure. I wish you and your family the best 🙏 I will keep watching your videos.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you very much. Hopefully I'll be back to tutorials soon.

[@gigiontube]

@@QuiltAddictsAnonymous Please do ! You are talented, many of us learned a lot from you.

[@cynthiagunn2161]

I hope that you opened up for your own mental health. Don't feel as though you owe anyone an explanation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Looking forward to what you have coming up.

[@NatalieMoore-cf4zt]

Take care of you, Stephanie. We have all learned a lot from you. We will be here when you are ready.

[@michelleskotynsky9426]

Stephanie. You are the most important -- take care of yourself and your family. We enjoy your content but we are superfluous! You do what you can handle. We will enjoy it. And we will wait patiently for more, when you are able. You are on the path to healing, in your own time.

[@suehudson7777]

God Bless you for doing this Stephanie! More people need to see that this is real life. Everyone struggles with some sort of mental health issues in their life at some point and this does a great service to show that it happens, it is treatable and surmountable. As a retired RN, I know first hand how important mental health is and nothing to be ashamed of if you need some help and understanding to get through it. Most people are very understanding about delays so long as they know why. You have a great fan base and I'm sure all of them are rooting for you. Thank you again for being real, and dispeling the allure of a perfect life. We all have challenges, I call it the 'shifting sands' under our feet. Just takes a while to find firm ground again and get to the 'new' normal in our lives. You will find yours. Do what's best or you first, then family, and the rest will come. Take care!

[@CopycatQuilter]

Thanks for sharing your story. I am treated for depression. For me, I have to be careful about the balance between staying busy so I don’t think too much and taking time to relax and think through things I need to pay attention to. Wishing you all the best! 💚

[@debbiehill1693]

Blessings to you and your family! I never comment, but have watched you for several years, I was always amazed at what you were doing, I am so glad you are feeling better! Something wonderful will come from this very difficult time of your life, you are a strong and talented woman and I will be watching for your new kind of Wonderful💜

[@user-rx9lm2ik1f]

So glad to hear from you and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are not the only Mom who reached bottom andd many other moms have been there. We want to remind that it gets better and there is a brighter future for all of us

[@carlamortenson5604]

Sometimes we put pressure on ourselves that isn't productive. Sounds to me like you are doing great at this point, I will be sticking by you for what ever you are up to doing. Thank you for all you have done.

[@tippylaroux3137]

I mean… I feel this in so many places of my heart right now. Take care of you and your family.

[@laurarose6829]

Moving my body has been the best thing for my mental health. And medication. Life changes.

[@amydowney1274]

Hi Stephanie. Thanks for video on whats been happening. Life is not predictable and does not follow our best layed plans all the time. Takes time for our minds and physical health to deal with circumstances. Your free 9 patch class online helped me deal with my life stresses better. Thank you for the community you have built and will continue to build. Amy Downey

[@douglaswebster4287]

Praying for you Stephanie, lean on our wonderful Lord for his strength to get you through your struggles, HE will be there for you! 🙏🙏😘

[@booomanchu]

First, I've missed you. I have several of your patterns and grateful that you created them as Fat Quarter friendly with little waste. Second, I totally understand the mental health issues and want you to know that your work and life experiences have given you transferable skills that will get you through this. As a dear friend told me when I lost my son. You can't go over, you can't go under, you go through it. She was right and even after 25 years, it's like yesterday and every day I go through it. Finally, keep doing what you're doing. Rewrite that business model. You've got what it takes. It'll be OK. Take care. We'll be here for you. Thank you for all you do. And if I could afford it, I'd totally be on that cruise. Someday...❤❤

[@tylenemcculloch]

You are in my thoughts and prayers…I have been where you are and it is still a struggle. During my worst times, you and your videos helped to keep me grounded. When life made me feel like I could do nothing right, your teaching and encouragement was a tool I used to work through it…. So above all else….Thank You!

[@fireems247]

How incredibly brave you are to lay it all out there! Although it may feel like it, you are not alone. Alot of us have experienced the dreaded depression and fight that monster daily! Keep fighting!

[@cherylskiles8524]

You are a bright, creative, resilient lady! Please take all the time you need to weather the waves, and plow through at your own pace. God's best to you!❤

[@rlstephens]

I actually think it’s fabulous that you’re showing real life struggles. It’s super hard for you I’m sure but real people are hard to find these days. Good luck to you. This too shall pass

[@lindamedlin9453]

Thank you for bringing us up to date and being so honest. So glad things are looking up for you now. Don't stress over hair and makeup, you're beautiful as you are. Be You, that's enough. Enjoy your cruise, sounds like fun. Prayers for you and your family.

[@suecone2198]

You have definitely been missed! I am glad that you are working through all the changes life has thrown at you and your family. Glad you shared what has been going on in your life. Hugs and prayers are sent ! ❤

[@susanferguson5136]

Embrace the new normal! I’m glad you are feeling better. Your health is the most important part of your life. Both for you and your family. Spend the money and time on yourself. You deserve it and so do they.

[@sandrahageman9955]

Stephanie, you have been on my mind. The struggles are real and all part of life. I see your spirit coming through in this update. Stay strong and be kind to your soul. Looking forward to what is yet to come.

[@karencutchey2905]

Mental health is huge! The need for medication is sometimes necessary. Personal self care is huge too (walking, baths, reading, etc.). Remember to take the time you need for yourself.

[@catricala1952]

Prayers and blessings to you...

[@kayleenleone1186]

I'm so glad to hear you are doing better. Soon, I hope, you will be feeling strong and back to 100% of your lovely self. Mental health is such an important thing for all of us to address and deal with just as if you have a cold. You can do it and I look forward to your future creations.

[@lorettanadolski4670]

You are a strong woman . Sharing your journey demonstrates who you are. Be proud of your many accomplishments. I am almost 80, and watched your video with such admiration. You reminded me of the women who went with their husbands out west. They were a strong breed, like yourself. Sending love.❤

[@marq9955]

Wow! It is nice to see you…hang in there…we will be here waiting for you to be ready…at your pace…

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you so much!

[@cherylbrown4058]

Take care of you and ease back slowly into your business of creativity. Missed seeing your tutorials. Again, take care of you, your mental health is very important.

[@dawnbowling6317]

Prayers to you Stephanie🙏.

[@crystalcrossno5178]

Thanks for your honesty and courage. Life has so many ups and downs. Glad you are open to trying new things! God bless your family.

[@VonnieOdette]

This reminds me of how women in the 80s had to push ahead and deal with juggling all the tasks. Been there, done that. No one's perfect. You'll get through it. Be proud of yourself for how you've overcome the adversity. We believe in you!

[@saffronflora]

Stephanie thank you for your honesty in telling your story. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You are a strong resilient woman who will get through this time and come out stronger the other end. Take care ❤

[@janetohara716]

Stephanie, I am so glad to hear that you are ok. I am 61 years old and have learned so much from you as I am a newbie quilter. I took a quilting class for my mental health as my husband of 38 years was diagnosed with ALS in 2022. I am still struggling as he is declining rapidly and I have had to quit my job to be his full time caregiver. I try to sew most days to “escape”. Prayers for your continued recovery.

[@katherinephillips8952]

The quilting community does a lot of giving and receiving. We can encourage one another. You, Stephanie and others are going through a rough patch. Those of us who are having a better time reach out to encourage you and lift you up in our prayers. You have built a large customer base, but we are your friends, too!! I'm so glad you are able to reduce the expectations of what you are able to accomplish. You can only do what you can do. "Don't 'should' on yourself!"

[@debbiechittick4755]

So good to hear from you. I have loved many of your quilt patterns! Possibly doing a box kit with collaborating with a quilt shop that will box and ship it for you or with the fabric manufacturers or even design a fabric line yourself! Your mental health is important take care of yourself!

[@TerriODonnell]

Stephanie I just started quilting Aug 22 and your vids were my first and I so thank you for that. I quilt just about everyday. You were and are my inspiration. TY for your openness and honesty with all that you as an entrepreneur were dealing with. Running your own biz is huge and many don’t understand. You wear so many hats in addition to your role as mom/daughter/friend/partner. Not to mention how much women carry daily, doing, doing, doing for others. YOU ARE A GIFT to so many of us in the quilting community. Remember thru these difficult and challenging times we learn what we’re made of and YOU GIRL…are one AMAZING human being. Hang in there and remember your own self worth. Finally, there is something new on the horizon for you. Hence all these challenges bubbling to the surface kind of at the same time. It sounds like you are yearning for something different. YOU will get thru this. YOU are a strong woman. TY for being who you are.

[@beckyelam7820]

Prayers for you and your family. Be good to you! You're an amazing woman. Know we're pulling with you. ❤

[@annroberson8890]

Wishing you better days ahead.

[@sandyholland2410]

You are an amazing person and we all so appreciate your openness and honesty. Mental health issues are real and we all experience them to some degree in our lives. Your openness is a ministry to others. Looking forward to what you have planned for the future. Thank you

[@user-eh4pf3dy7h]

I pray you continue to heal and recover in so many ways. Remember that you are loved and cared for.

[@joannaforcum1530]

Precious woman… how blessed your readers are to see your candor. May you feel the love that is Truly sent to you, believing in your talent and hoping for continued healing .

[@ninadukette3340]

Well said.❤

[@erlinepruitt3626]

❤️👍👍👍❤️👋👋👋❤️prayers are going up for you and your family Stephanie…blessings!!! ❤

[@amadeus4313]

Prayers for you. I’ve really missed you

[@Scrappyendings]

Thank you for sharing your struggles, however, thank you for your sharing your creativity and tutorials in the past. You will definitely work through this struggle as well and just know that so many of us will continue to follow you and your creativity. God Bless.

[@AMYOSMUNDSON]

Glad to have you back and hear an update. Praying for your continued recovery and looking forward to see what’s next!

[@dedremills1215]

I literally never post a comment - thank you for your honesty and for sharing with your base fans. You’ve contributed so much to the quilting world and you are loved and supported. Continue the hard work of grieving and recreating a new chapter.

[@annadeplanna8297]

Stephanie!!!! So very glad to see you!!! You have been such an inspiration since I found you 2 years ago! I saved all quilt plans for my retirement which started 3 months ago...after working in health care for decades, I think we are all trying to learn to take care of our total selves: physical, mental, emotional wellbeing! You are so kind to share some of your steps !! Take good sweet care of yourself, and we will cheer you on whatever endeavors you select!! Hugs fr Anna in Calif!!

[@jacquielawrence5670]

Stephanie, allow yourself time. You were hit by a fast moving train in 2023. I was once told that each change in our lifes, takes 2 years to settle down again. I've found this piece of advice is so true , it also gives me the strength to get through life's curve balls xx

[@gramapama7636]

Thank you for sharing your life with us. You are such an encouragement to me. God is with you. He is for you. Psalm 34:18 "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." He's got you. You are loved. ❤😊

[@cathyhasfaith6991]

Prayers for you. I am still working through a similar mental health dump. Caught me off guard too. We can stick with you! God bless! ❤

[@janeteing7329]

You are a blessing.hang in there!it was because of you I started quilting.and I'm 74!!

[@likicanoe3305]

You and your projects are worth waiting for.

[@sharonrimsza7960]

OMG. You need to have a huge hug and some laughter. You are working your way through it and you must know we all are rooting for you and will keep checking in on you. So glad you are letting us know where you are and where you want to go.

[@user-xq8qk4dl2r]

Thank you for this update. Thank you for sharing your struggles. Glad you're taking care of yourself and family. I look forward to seeing more of you when you are able.

[@carolharris5456]

Beautiful background of quilts! Really excited for upcoming projects! You are looking great! Yes, we all need a break at times to find ourselves. We will be here when you are ready! Love you! ♥️

[@roxannesmith6656]

So glad you are doing better ! You are missed. Please take your time & do what you need to do. We will all be here for you. You are such a great teacher & you are so talented & creative. I have learned so much from you, so thank you for everything ! Take care 😊🙏🏻🌺🌸

[@karenpack8111]

Thanks for sharing your situation. We will be there when you are ready to come back. Take the time you need. Prayers for you and your family. You are great at designing and teaching, we appreciate all you do!!

[@dianemarvin9176]

Thank you so much for letting us know what you are going thru even tho you don’t owe it to us! I hope the best for your mental journey, been there, done that-it’s nice to see you again

[@justinaduenez7626]

You went through a lot and your a fantastic women. Your talented, knowledgeable and wife and mother, and a business Your also human being. I could just manage myself. Your so great and sweet. I wish, I was like you. Take care of yourself then you can care of others.❤

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you very much, I think we all are capable of a lot more than we give ourselves credit for.

[@victorialopez526]

So glad you are doing better. I completely understand depression, having to have battled with it since I was a teen and not having been diagnosed until my early 30’s. I’m happy you recognize your symptoms and know how to take care of yourself. So happy to see you today! Looking forward to more videos. ❤️❤️

[@pennysmith-kerker1202]

Thank you for discussing your mental health. It’s so important that people know they aren’t alone.

[@KumaSews]

My heart goes out to you! Mental health issues take everything out of you. You are brave, you are strong, you got this! Looking forward to seeing you come back …when you are ready. Never apologize for taking care of you. You are the most important to yourself and your family. The rest of us are just excited to see you when we can. Big hug to a friend I don’t know.

[@annaadams5612]

I am looking forward to meeting you in person on the cruise! I understand some of your struggles and I'm happy to see you're doing better! See you in May!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

I can’t wait to meet you in person!