Seeking the Right Home for Crop at Home 6
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Watch the replay here: https://youtube.com/live/5fEP7kXcnaI
October 14: Seeking the Right Home for Crop at Home 6
Some seasons of growth are loud and exciting. Others are quieter, thoughtful, and just as important.
In October, a small group of us traveled together to Temple, Texas with one clear purpose in mind, to explore possibilities for the future of Martha’s Paper Crafting retreats and, specifically, to look ahead toward Crop at Home 6 in May 2026.
This trip wasn’t about final decisions or big announcements. It was about discernment, asking the right questions, and spending time together as we considered what truly matters when we gather as a creative community.
Why We Took This Trip
As our events continue to grow, so does our responsibility to choose spaces that support the kind of experience we want to provide.
When we host a retreat, we’re not just booking a location. We’re creating an environment where creativity, comfort, connection, and care all need to coexist. That means thinking beyond square footage and aesthetics and focusing on how a space actually feels to the people staying there.
This visit was part of that process, taking the time to walk through a potential location, imagine our days there together, and evaluate whether it aligned with the heart of our community.
Time Together Matters
One of the most meaningful parts of this trip had nothing to do with logistics.
There were five of us together, sharing meals, conversations, laughter, tea, and quiet moments of unpacking both suitcases and ideas. Those moments are always a gift, and they remind me why these retreats matter so much.
The community isn’t built on a schedule. It’s built in the in-between moments.
Supporting Local Creativity
While we were in the area, we also had the joy of visiting a local scrapbook store, Wenda Full Scrapbooks.
Walking into a creative space like that is always inspiring. Local scrapbook stores are the heartbeat of our crafting world, places where ideas are shared, creativity is encouraged, and friendships are formed across cutting tables and paper aisles.
Supporting local creative businesses whenever we travel is something I value deeply, and it was a bright spot in our time there.
About the Video Series
Throughout this trip, I shared pieces of the experience on YouTube, giving you a glimpse into the process, the conversations, and the reflection that comes with planning something meaningful.
Rather than focusing on one moment, these videos together tell the story of exploration, connection, and thoughtful evaluation.
Clarity Is a Gift
One of the most important things this trip gave us was clarity.
Sometimes a visit confirms that a space is exactly right. Other times, it gently shows you that you’re still meant to keep looking. Both outcomes are valuable.
As we continue planning for Crop at Home 6, this experience helped refine what our non-negotiables are and reaffirmed our commitment to creating events that truly serve our community.
That kind of clarity is something I’m always grateful for.
Looking Ahead with Intention
This blog exists to document the journey, not just the destination.
Planning ahead, asking thoughtful questions, and taking the time to evaluate options carefully is part of honoring the people who choose to gather with us. It’s how we protect the experience, the energy, and the heart of what we’re building together.
While this chapter didn’t lead to a final home, it moved us closer to the right one.
And that matters.
Grateful for the Journey
I’m incredibly thankful for the women who traveled with me, for the conversations we shared, and for the clarity we gained along the way.
Every step forward, even the quieter ones, shapes what comes next.
With gratitude,
Martha