I'M BACK!!!!!! And, HAPPY 5th ANNIVERSARY, HONEY!!!

WOW!!!  What a whirlwind the past few days have been...fun, but...as the old saying goes "there's no place like home".  We've been to visit both sides of the family (albeit short visits)...and, have thrown in a celebration of our fifth wedding anniversary during that time as well.

The neat part about it...five years ago...when we were married, we decided to get married in a small celebration with immediate family in Washington D.C., and then tour the city, with our photographer taking pictures of us along the way in front of the historical monuments.  Well, my husband's family live right outside of D.C., and I suggested that it would be neat to go back down there on our "fifth year anniversary" and reminisce about our day and explore the monuments a little more (because I didn't get to truly do this on that day, as we were busy "getting the best shot we could" for our photos :) ...

So, we were able to visit the spots we enjoyed five years ago, and also visit some of the monuments and spots that I haven't been able to visit...it was truly a GREAT DAY!!!  Five years have gone by SO FAST, but I'm amazed by how much closer we have grown.

My photographer produced a wedding storybook for us to remember "Our special day", as well as a CD set to some of our special songs from the day.  At the time, I was able to give him verses, song lyrics, etc. to place throughout the storybook...and, as I was flipping through recently, I came upon one of my favorites regarding the type of love we should all have:


"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends."

1 Corinthians 1: 4-8


I hope to always remember these virtues...I'm not perfect...no one is...but, if I can strive to remember this, it will certainly continue to grow my marriage.  I have found the more I instill these virtues, the better I feel, and the more our love for each other and marriage grows.

So...with that, I shall depart with a picture from our wedding day, that my aunt took (all my "professional" photos are on a CD that can't be reproduced).  I hope that you and yours had a wonderful holidays and hope you are looking forward to a New Year!!  Have you planned any New Years resolutions?  I often don't do this formally...more an informal type process for me...I'm always a work in progress (hmmm...maybe that might be another topic :)....

Well...here we were five years ago...

Oh yeah...since I've been on the road, etc., etc., I've been slacking on the crafting, getting things regarding crafts (i.e. uploading pics, etc.) ready for the blog.  But, hopefully after the New Year, I will get caught up and ready to go...I have another get together the next two days (one at my house tomorrow, and one at New Years), and then I hope to start getting caught up from all the hustle and bustle from the holidays...I LOVE IT, but it can WEAR YOU OUT!!! 

Thanks....and let me know what you think about the blog!!!  I appreciate you taking the time to "drop in"!!

Gone...But Not Forgotten

Eventhough, to me, this is the most wonderful time of year...this year, there is an empty chair as my family gathers.  My uncle is no longer with us this year.  So, while I was getting ready today to leave to travel to our various Christmases this year with our families... I begin to think of my uncle, and how much he will be missed this year.

Of course, this can often be a difficult time for many individuals as we remember those loved ones that have gone before us.  However, I choose to remember the wonderful memories, the love and the happy memories.  I loved him very much, and I miss his "chuckle"...but, I know I will see him again one day!  What a wonderful day that will be!

My aunt (uncle's wife) included the most beautiful poem in my Christmas card.  I reread it today, and I thought I would include it in this blog, if only that it might cheer someone that might be struggling with "the empty chair" themself this season:

Around the Christmas table
there's an empty chair this year...
The precious smile is missing
of someone we still hold dear.

And yet our hearts are hopeful,
though the season's bittersweet,
Because we know the one we love
has filled another seat.

For another banquet table
abounds with joy and love
For those who've made the journey
to be with our Lord above.

What a fitting memorial to my Uncle...of course, tears filled my eyes when I received it (and do still, as I reread it).  But, I LOVED it!!!  Uncle CJ...I LOVE you very much, and you will be missed, and "your seat" will NEVER be filled again...

That being said, the living continue to live and move on with their daily lives, but we can always take time to "reflect" on the good times.  Here is a look at the last time that we had a group picture, with my uncle in the front corner.  This was this spring...at my husband's surprise 40th birthday party that I coordinated...we had SO MUCH FUN that day...as we always did!!!!

So, I guess, as my title suggests...Uncle CJ....you are gone, but you will NEVER be forgotten.  May we all enjoy the season with those we love.  I'll probably be taking a short hiatus for a few days to do just that!  Hope you all have a wonderful holidays, and I hope to "be back" in a few days.  May God bless you all, and all of your families! 

The Power of Song...

We've all heard the saying about the power of song...how hearing some songs can provide a sense of nostalgia...taking you back to a "special" or "not so special" time in your life (just like a smell can).  If you are anything like me, you have a few songs that chronical some VERY important moments in your life...some you can recite off the top of your head...maybe because they were "scripted" moments (by this I mean, every time I hear "Life is a Highway"...I think back to high school homecoming)...get it?  Then, there are songs, that just "slip up" on you...you are just going about your day, listening to your music, and "that" song plays...and you are transported to another place and time.  Isn't it funny how a song can transport you like that?  I LOVE IT!!!

Remember my post about the "End of an Era" that I spoke of a holiday concert of Jim Brickman that I attended?  Well, Mr. Brickman's music holds quite a bit of significance...in fact, my husband and I choose "Valentine" for our wedding ceremony to play during the ceremony.  So...every time I hear the song, whether I be in a store aisle (yes, it has happened), in my car, on our CD, etc...it takes me back to that very special day.  I just love the lyrics to the song, they convey such a special message...just what we wanted.  Plus, we first started dating around Valentine's...so even more special meaning between the two of us.  ANYWAY...we've since attended two Jim Brickman concerts, and each time he has performed "Valentine"...each time transports me back to my wedding day, and reminds me of the special day it was and the vows I pledged to my husband on that day.  One of the songs that (although I don't hear often) I could never hear enough, due to the significance it means to me.  I'm sharing a link to it, with the song and lyrics...for your enjoyment.  If you've never heard it, check it....you may even love it as much as I do!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv1mKyn6aZA

Now, you may wonder..."why post this now"?  I actually have two reasons to share this with you today.  My husband and I are about to share our 5th year anniversary, so I guess you can say I'm starting to reminisce on that wonderful day.  Second, last night on Pinterest I found the neatest thing that I believe I will definitely be working on after the holidays.  And, after sharing with you the importance of the lyrics of "My Valentine" to you, you will understand why I want to create the project with them.  Here is the project that I "pinned", then I will explain what I want to do:

So, my plan is to take the lyrics to my cherished song...print on cardstock with my Silhouette CAMEO...Mod Podge onto some canvases and place above our bed in our bedroom.  Of course, it often sounds super easy...I'll let you know how easy the task is.  I'm excited about this project...what do you think?  When I saw it, I fell in LOVE!!!

What do you think about the power of song?  What are some of your songs that have significance in your life, and why?  Do you think this is a neat way to remember a song that is of great significance?  Let me know what you think?

What are you thinking of the blog...I'd love to know?  Thanks for all the positive feedback so far!

Too Amazing not to share!!!!

Okay, I stumbled upon this AMAZING website this weekend...and as the title suggests...it is TOO AMAZING not to share!!!

Now, not everyone knows my previous employment background...so, just a snapshot:  I worked almost a decade in the field of developmental disabilities...coordinating services, etc. etc.  My husband STILL works at the Regional Office with the State Dept. of Developmental Disabilities...so, disclaimer...HUGE advocate here!!!  When I see someone supporting and doing a lot to help those with disabilities...YOU BET I'm going to be doing my best to support them!

So...we have all heard of craigslist, Ebay, etc.  Well...I was perusing craigslist this weekend, seeing if there was anything that I could score at a good price that I could "gussy" (that's a word, right?)...and, I stumbled upon this ad for a "virtual yard sale".  Well, I am the yard sale/estate sale guru...LOVE THEM!!!  However, not many around this time of year...I mean it is the holidays.  So, curious me...I ventured over and checked the site out.  I find out, that you can sell old items and buy via this website.  They have "live" yard sales every so often...next one I believe in January. 

ANYWAY....things that don't sale...can be DONATED to their sister store next door which is a thrift store, and employs individuals with disabilities...AWESOME!!!!  Working in this field, finding individuals with disabilities a job that is fulltime is VERY DIFFICULT! 

So...why am I blogging about this?  I scored a multitude of stuff off this site!!!  You know that previous blog about Pinterest...yeah, I've got lots of craft ideas on my list, but needed a few materials that I didn't want to spend a fortune on...I got all kinds of things for CHEAP!!!!  I'm going tomorrow to pick up my goodies.  When I called today, they were like "are you Erin?, We've already started pulling the order together...you were busy this weekend."  I'm totally not embarassed...I got some awesome deals...things I would have paid even more money for at Goodwill...which I also provide patronship to!  So, now the link to the site... (Disclaimer:  this place is in Franklin, TN, so if this is too much of a drive for you, I'm so sorry...but, just wanted to share for those that it isn't).  Give them some love, if it isn't.

http://www.thestuffsale.com/Default.aspx

After I pick up my goodies tomorrow, I hope to take some pictures, and then possibly give some of the ideas I have for them...maybe to give some ideas...hope you're having a wonderful day and getting ready for the weekend!!

Are you enjoying the blog?

An unexpected visitor

This weekend I had an unexpected visitor...one I have waited on for many years to see.  Due to this visit, I have spent the next two days in reflection, devotion, and prayer...so, just wanted to share some verses with you...hug your friends and loved ones...and, I pray you enjoy the holiday season with your friends and family.

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.  Then, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one for the faith of the gospel."  Philippians 1:27

"Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.  Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."  Philippians 2: 2-4

"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."  Ephesians 4: 1-3

"My dear friends, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."  James 1: 19-20

"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength."


When I was reading these during my reflection period this weekend, these were some of my favorites.  I decided I wanted to share and hope you enjoy as well. Maybe you'll enjoy as much as I did...especially with the hustle and bustle, pausing to reflect on these will be a much needed break.  These helped remind me of the "light" I want to shine.  Hope you enjoy the inspirational reminders. 

Hope you're enjoying the blog as much as I...

The End of an Era

Ever had a day, experience, etc., that for whatsoever reason makes you contemplate, think, or even bring you back to another place in time (good or bad).  Yesterday (December 15th) was that day for me.  I was going about my day, and I heard on the television  "It is official...the Iraqi war is over."  Now, don't ask me the technicalities, etc., and this is definitely not a political post, because at that point, I basically zoned out regarding troup withdrawal, etc., etc. 

When I heard the news report I began to reflect on basically the last decade...how much our world has changed since that fateful day.  Where were you when "the world stopped turning".  I'll admit it.  I'm not really a huge country music fan, which is quite ironic since I reside in the capital of "Country Music USA", but I do feel THAT song was such a poignant song for a day that changed the world as I know it.  I know I can describe in detail my daily events on that day; and the people that were involved in that day (even though they live in far away states) hold a special place in my heart.  In fact, one of them, Jen N., sent me a message this year on the 10th year anniversary, and I literally wept when reading.  That day has changed the face of our nation.  Just think, those children born after 9/11/2011, don't know a world with "The Twin Towers" or a world without Homeland Security, etc. 

Anyway, I was so glad to see the troops coming home...again, disclaimer: no politics here.  It's the holiday season, and who doesn't want to spend the holidays with family, it truly is "the most wonderful time of year".  It is the reason my husband and I chose to get married this time of year.  Granted, there is the hustle and bustle, but the love of family and friends and sharing in that during the holidays...well, there is nothing like it in my book!!!  So, it made my heart swell (you know kind of like the Grinch's does at the end of the movie)...yeah, like that...when I hear that so many troops are coming home! 

Then, last night, my husband and I had the opportunity to attend a wonderful holiday concert at the Ryman with Jim Brickman and friends, and he played this song "Coming Home".  (Thanks to some of our best friends, Bill and Donna, for providing us the tickets for Christmas gifts.)  Again...this song started reminding me of my earlier thoughts during the day.  I just knew I wanted to share the song on my blog.  One, it is beautiful.  Two, it has such a great message.  Disclaimer:  this came from youtube, so it is not from lastnight, but great all the same!!!  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did last night:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IB-QoG1XMs

Hopefully, you are enjoying blog...comment and let me know what you think...I appreciate those that have. 

Just an FYI:  I have decided that I am probably going to hold off COMPLETELY on posting the crafts until AFTER the holidays...don't want to give away any gifts...however, I mights post some ideas, etc....or, projects that might be in the works, ideas found, etc prior, if I know it is not going to be a spoiler!  However, still plan to give some insights, inspiration, etc.

Also....make sure to scroll down to bottom of page...I've added some things that provides updated sayings each day, etc. 

I hope everyone is having a wonderful and blessed day!!!

It's been a long day....gonna be a long night....

Well, as I've stated, I've been struggling with a chronic medical condition for almost 5 years now.  Today...well, it has been "one of those days"...and, now it is running late into the night.  Days and nights like this do make it more difficult, but I still try to remain positive.  When I first became ill, I questioned "why me"...however, now I've chosen to "adjust" this perspective; but, I am human and some days I do fall on the "why me".

I do have an "invisible disease".  One day, I stumbled upon this article, and it provides permission for reproduction, as long as credit is given.  This is a great article for dealing with anyone with an invisible disease (i.e. Crohn's disease, MS, fibromyalgia, etc.).  I encourage everyone to read it and ponder on it, comment if you wish.  Hopefully it will bring some awareness and sensitivity to those with "invisible illnesses".

As you can tell, this article is focuses on the "invisible illness", fibromyalgia, which after approximately 1 year of tests, doctors, hospital visits, etc. 5 years ago...I was diagnosed with (along with a few other things).  However, I felt this article was a great article that introduced sensitivity to fibromyalgia, as well as individuals that are sick with "invisible illnesses" that "look" healthy....just something to ponder....

Had this on my mind since I've had a rough day (and night) today...hope you're enjoying the blog...

Open Letter to the Normals:

These are the things I would like you to understand before you judge me...

Please know that being sick doesn't mean I'm not human. I may spend most of my day flat on my back and I might not seem like great company, but I'm still me stuck inside this body. I worry about school, work, family and friends and I'd still like to hear about yours.

Please understand the difference between "happy" and "healthy". When you've got the flu you probably feel miserable but it will pass. I've been sick for for so long that I can't afford to be miserable all the time, in fact I work hard at not being miserable. So if I sound happy, it means that I'm happy, it does not mean that I am well. I may be in pain and sicker than ever.

Please, don't say, "Oh, you're sounding better!".

I am not sounding better, I am sounding happy. If you want to comment on that, you're welcome.

Please understand that being able to stand up for five minutes, doesn't mean that I can stand ten minutes, or an hour. It's likely that five minutes has exhausted my resources and I'll need to recover - imagine an athlete after a race. They couldn't repeat that feat right away either. With a lot of diseases you're either paralyzed or you can move, but with Fibromyalgia it gets more confusing.

Please repeat the above paragraph substituting, "sitting up", "walking", "thinking", "being sociable" and so on ... it applies to everything. That's what a fatigue-based illness does to you.

Please understand that chronic illnesses are variable. It's quite possible (for me, it's common) that one day I am able to walk to the park and back, and the next I'll struggle to reach the kitchen.

Please don't attack me when I'm ill by saying, "But you did it before!".

If you want me to do something, ask if I can and I'll tell you. In a similar vein, I may need to cancel an invitation at the last minute, if this happens please don't take it personally.

Please understand that "getting out and doing things" does not make me feel better, and can often make me worse. Fibromyalgia may cause secondary depression (wouldn't you get depressed if you were no longer able to participate in life?) but it is not caused by depression. Telling me that I need exercise is not appreciated or correct - if I could do it, I would.

Please understand that if I say I have to sit down/lie down/take these pills now, that I do have to do it right now - it can't be put off or forgotten just because I'm doing something. Fibromyalgia does not forgive.

Please understand that I can't spend all of my energy trying to get well. With a short-term illness like the flu, you can afford to put life on hold for a week or two while you get well. But part of having a chronic illness is coming to the realization that you have to spend some energy on having a life now. This doesn't mean I'm not trying to get better. It doesn't mean I've given up. It's just how life is when you're dealing with a chronic illness.

If you want to suggest a cure, please don't. It's not because I don't appreciate the thought, and it's not because I don't want to get well. It's because every one of my friends has already suggested every theory known to man. I tried them all, but quickly realized I was using up so much energy trying new treatments I was making myself sicker, not better. If there was something that cured Fibromyalgia, all of us would know about it by now.

If you read this and still want to suggest a cure, submit it in writing but don't expect me to rush out and try it. If it is something new, with merit, I'll discuss it with my doctor.

Please understand that getting better can be a slow process. Fibromyalgia entails numerous symptoms and it can take a long time to sort them all out.

I depend on you - people who are not sick for many things but most importantly, I need you to understand me.

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It's a new day...It's a new post!

So,  yesterday and today I have spent a great majority of time setting up and reconfiguring the new blog account...both to get myself acquainted to the blog format and to also learn avenues to bring this information to you in neat new ways.

Have you discovered Pinterest yet?  If you haven't, you need to check it out...disclaimer...it is very addictive, and before you know it time has simply vanished.  I've heard many of my friends say that it has become their new addiction and time waster...but, so many ideas.  This is where I have found so many ideas for my upcoming projects, as well as yummy recipes to try out for my husband.  AND, this is where my request for the Silhoutte machine from "Santa" originated from.  I already have so many ideas in line.

Due to Christmas, I can't post some of the "projects"  that I was working on prior to the holiday season...gifts for relatives that might be checking my blog...however, following the season...I plan to post away. 

Then, the Silhouette CAMEO machine...AWWW...I'm in love...I simply can't wait...is it so wrong to already know what Santa is bringing this year (I have been a good girl this year ;)...I can't wait to get knee deep in producing all things vinyl and fabric, card stock, etc...for gifts, myself, as well as to sell...more ideas, photos to come. 

So...please follow.  Bare with me as I continue to upgrade and edit the blog...I'm finding it funner than I even imagined.  Tell your friends, etc.

Oh yeah, my posts won't ALWAYS be about crafts, sometimes just a little inspiration, something I learned, etc.  Like I said, I have lived with a chronic medical condition for almost 5 years now, and that can REALLY change your perspective on life...I choose to mainly keep positive...SO...hopefully you can stop by for some POSITIVE (and sometimes funny) inspiration as well.

Hello Everyone

Today is my first "official" blog post...it embarks my new "project".  I'm excited to share some of my ideas and projects, as well as some inspiration and support for those with chronic medical issues.  Since, I also face chronic medical issues myself, I hope this blog is both inspirational, supportive, and fruitful for my family as well.  I look forward to the journey...hopeful you will join me!!!

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord"