I've been giving the Beanie market a lot of thought lately and it saddens me to read so many negative reports about these beanbag toys. Yes, realistically I will admit that some have lost their zest or passion for collecting BUT what about the memories that these toys held? Is it possible that so many have forgotten what joy these beanbags brought into their lives? The thrill of the hunt, the victory and excitement we experienced when we found a desired style. The ups and downs of the market and the mysterious workings of Ty. And most importantly the many friendships that have been established around the world. Have they all been lost?
I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a 41 year-old lady who still collects to this day. I collect for many reasons but more importantly I continue to collect because of the special ties with collectors. Their passion still remains true and their friendships will be cherish forever!
Ms. Janie's Collector's Studio is a news site and I can assure you that news is often times hard to come by. There are days when I would like to walk away but notes from collectors continue to keep me interested and on my toes. Contrary to what some of you may believe, the site is NOT a profitable one. I do not get paid for click-throughs to other sites nor do I offer links into Meta Exchange or E-bay and profit from those sites. I do offer sponsorship on the site but can assure you that the money acquired from banner ads no where near makes up for the cost I incur to keep the site going.
Owning and operating a large site as mine is quite costly. In order to be on top of my game I must also purchase as many of Ty's products in order to successfully answer questions. This also can be very costly, not to mention the purchasing of software to stay on top of technology and steadily increasing server fees. I think you get the picture!
So many of you would ask why I continue. Believe me, I've asked myself that same question many times over BUT I always arrive with the same response. It's my love for the hobby and the MANY friendships I have established that keep me going! So many of you have touched my life in so many ways that it would be very difficult to just walk away. So many of you depend on me and I'm not the sort of person who likes to let people down. So many of you support me with your continued loyalty. So many of you view me as a real person and not a cover girl. AND for all of those reasons and more I will stay around as long as you will have me! It's that simple!!!!
I've learned to never take anything for granted and in my opinion Ty's Beanie Babies have done so much for so many that it's impossible for me to believe it's over! I'd rather like to believe that there will always be new collectors just starting to collect and the old and true collectors will always be there no matter what!
Some may not collect every style, or turn on their computers for days but deep down inside they are all still intrigued with these magical beans and how they continue to change our lives.
I heard a song the other day by Tanya Tucker called (Strong Enough To Bend) I changed the words around a little to describe how I feel about Beanies and the special people who have come into my life as collectors and friends. I hope you enjoy it! Ms. Janie
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