It's me, Cheri!

The Four Elements

2009-08-22T07:54:00.008-05:00

When the subject of this Challenge was announced,
I knew immediately what I was going to make! I was going to make a polymer clay sculpture of the Earth with fire and wind swirling around it. I would add a heart for a couple of reasons: I love hearts and I love the Earth!

Call me a "Tree Hugger" if you want but I really would like to see us take better care of the Earth.......I do my part----I know I could be better----not in a Al Gore or Sheryl Crow can of way----but I could do better! We all could!

As I think about and look at my creation, I am reminded of Creation. "In the Beginning, God created the Heavens and Earth.", Genesis 1:1

Can you imagine what that was like?

Nothing then Something!

Atoms Crashing...........................Particles Swirling............Molecules Soaring......................Winds Roaring..............Water Exploding.....................Dust bits Colliding...........Is must have been a Most Wonderful Site To Behold!!!!!!!

No wonder God sat back and declared it To Be Good!

Loki Sorrano gave me a SHOUT OUT!!!

2009-08-11T17:53:00.003-05:00

She liked my Lil HeartBird and wrote to tell me she mentioned me on her Stylehive (?) Cool!

Lil Red HeartBird To Fly Your Burdens Away by itsmecheri on Etsy - religious - ceramics and pottery - heart Stylehive BM 704863 #:704863

Well whatdaknow! It worked!!! COOL!!!

It'll Be Okay.

2009-08-04T15:10:00.005-05:00

"It'll be okay."

"But I am scared, Lord!"

"It will be okay!"

Those words are echoing in my Spirit.
That Still Small Voice whispers those calming words into my being--spreading warmth in my soul, bringing peace to the panic--reminding me that God is in control of the chaos.

I "feel" His arms. I "sense" His closeness. I "rest" in His embrace. His joy is my strength and in that Strength I am made strong.

The storm rages, my world shakes, my resources weak. But still I will trust Him. Still I will follow. Still I will listen and trust Him for all my tomorrows.

"I am afraid, Lord!"

"I know but IT WILL BE OKAY!"

I can rest in that.

"

A Bowl Of Lemons

2009-07-11T13:57:00.004-05:00

Lemons. They are sour. But with a little bit of sugar, they make a terrific refreshing drink!

Life hands you lemons sometimes.

Roy and I are dealing with a bowl full of lemons right now. Ya' know, you look at those lemons and you notice things.

The size and shape of the bowl. The color. How it affects the bright yellow of the lemons. You notice how the bright yellow is a cheery color but you know the lemons are sour--makes ya make that ugly pucker face.

You realize you really need do something with those lemons.
Lemonade, Lemon Chicken, Lemon Zest, Lemon Bars.....what do you do with the lemons?

You know you must do something but what? So you head to a book--a recipe book. You find your options and realized you must follow the directions in that recipe in order to achieve the desired outcome. But there are too many ingredients, there's too many steps in the recipe, this is just not the recipe for you to make. It is overwhelming. You can't do this! You need help!

You seek the advice of another cook who is better than you. One that has already made the recipe. One that has knowledge of how to take the lemons and make them palatable. A plan is formed. The first step is there, ready to be taken. Guidance is a breath away. The better cook is waiting for you to ask for help--you are not alone!

So it is with Roy and mine lemons.

The recipe book? The Bible.
The experienced cook? The Lord.
The plan? To step on the stones He lays before us on the path He directs.

Richard Exley wrote: "It helps me to think of guidance as a miner’s cap with its built-in lamp whose feeble beam penetrates the darkness only a step or two. As the miner steps out, the light penetrates ever deeper, one step at a time. So it is with God’s guidance. We receive further direction only as we walk in the light He has already given us."

Still I will trust Him, still I will follow.
Still I will trust Him for all my tomorrows.
Though the storm rages on and I can't find my way.
Still I will trust, still I will follow
Still I will trust, you Lord.

We are making lemonade with the bowl of lemon life has just handed us!

Why I Create!

2009-06-27T12:31:00.005-05:00

I can remember the first thing I created in Elementary Art Class. I was in Mrs. Zachery’s 2^nd grade class in Sulley Elementary. It was Halloween and the art teacher gave us a black piece of construction paper and told us to make a cat. She did not hand out scissors, glue, or paint. I was excited! I knew exactly what to do -- take away the parts of that paper that did not look like a cat!

I ripped. I crumpled. I wet the paper with my spit. I rubbed. I tore little pieces off that paper until there it was! A hunched-back black cat with it’s hair standing on end, caught in a frozen scream at an invisible ethereal being! Scary! I got an A+.

That was it! I was hooked! I began to create: glue and paste, scissors and crayons, chalk and paint, you name it, I begged my parents for it! My mother even found crafting kits for me to make. One year for Christmas every Aunt, Uncle, Grandpa, Grandma, Pastor, Sunday School Teacher, Elementary Teacher, Friends of my Mom and Dad…..EVERYONE got Woven Pot Holders I made on a loom. Remember those?

But as I grew, I lost touch with that part of me. Got married, had a baby, jobs were lost, bills had to be paid…………………….Life happened. Until one day, my ‘baby’ grew up and left the nest.

I lost me. I wasn’t needed anymore. I had no one to take care of. What was there to do anymore? My husband had gone with our Son to his Permanent Duty Station. I was alone in an empty house. I had an empty bedroom—albeit a clean but empty bedroom. Dark.

A friend kept inviting me to come to a Stamping Party. I always had a good reason to not go but deep down, I had a really good “funk” going on and I did not want to get out of it! She did not give up—she invited me one more time and told me I was the Guest of Honor! The presenter had a project especially designed for me. Well, I had to go this time—ugh!

When I arrived, everything was set up. Work stations had placemats with our names stamped on them. The colors were red, white, and blue. She had two projects for us, a card and a scrapbook page. They were both a military theme.

I did not want to participate! My Son had recently joined the Military, completed Basic Training, and left home to his Permanent Duty Station. Didn’t they realize I missed him and this was hurting me? I was sad, doggone it! And she should know it!

I frowned. I was here but I did not have to like it! I sat quietly, watching her demonstrate. Hey, wait a minute! That’s cool! Look at that! She was using rubber stamps and ink to make a title page for her son’s birthday party album.

I could do that for my Son! For the start of his Military Career! I was creative as a child. Those “talents” have to still be in there somewhere! A spark started a deep bubbly sense of excitement deep inside me. I felt my soul exhale and start to breathe again. I felt me SMILE!

I had a Mission! I had a Purpose! I had a Goal! I had Something To Do! I plummeted into my scrapbook and never turned back. I firmly believe that God used that Scrapbook as therapy for the Empty Nest Syndrome I was suffering. I am now grateful for my friend never stopping to ask me to come to a Stamping Party!

From that moment on, Creativity returned to my life. I went on to create many more scrapbooks, greeting cards, wedding invitations, birth announcements, jewelry, knitted items until I found polymer clay.

Whoa! This is awesome! Polymer Clay--The Most Fabulous Creative Medium In The World! I can make anything out of it! Again……… I plummeted into my clay creations. I love this stuff! I mean L-O-V-E making things with Polymer Clay. I am HOOKED and forever shall be!!!

I was amazed people liked the things I made from Polymer Clay! They asked me to make gifts out of Polymer Clay for them! They paid me for making stuff for them! I was paid for playing!!!!

Then, I got an email for a custom order--HeartStones!

HeartStones are my own creation, born out of my love and support for my Best Friend. Her husband was recently diagnosed with Stage Four Cancer. I wanted to create something tangible for her. Something she could hold during the rough times she was about to face. Something that would remind her I was praying for her. Something that told her I was supporting her. Something that reminded her she was not alone. Polymer Clay was the perfect medium for my HeartStones.

I thank God for Creativity. It is His gift to me.

Roy's Wild Chair Adventure!

2009-06-25T09:23:00.003-05:00

We had a lawn chair. You know the kind--a four legged, aluminum frame, fold up fabric chair.

And it was Amelia's chair. She sat in it in the cool of every morning. She chewed the arms. She watched the birds fly overhead. It was her Chair.

On this particular day as she sat enjoying the morning, the seat of the chair ripped. Not too much, but enough to startle Amelia. She jumped straight up and out of her chair. Then she cautiously crept around it, sniffing wondering what had happened! Then a bird flew overhead and she was off doing the "I'm Gona Get You" bark and jumping in the air.

The day proceeded as normal until Roy came home. As is their habit, Roy and Amelia go in the backyard. Amelia runs and runs and runs while Roy watches--almost like she is saying, "Watch me Dad! I can run fast!" And she can!

Roy usually just stands on the patio drinking a bottle of water, watching her ..........but not today! Of ALL days, he heads toward Amelia's chair------

"Um. You might not want to sit there! The chair ripping some this morning while Amelia was sitting in it."

He looks at it. "It's not too much.", and sits down. He was warned!!!!!

I stand at the door........waiting for 'it' to happen........'it' is inevitable........I will need to help him get up if 'it' happens.......'it' doesn't break.........'it' is holding.........I guess I will go fix din.....................................

Zip................................DOWN HE GOES! He just sits there! Look on his face was amusement! He just sits there.

"Are you okay?" (I start to laugh)

"Yeah." (I laugh harder)

Where's my camera? (laughing)....phone.......has.......camera.........(At this point I am laughing so hard, I am crying!!!!!)

Take........the........pictures.......(laughing harder--can't breathe!)

"Help me get up! Push on the back of the chair" (by the way, Roy is laughing too!)

"okay" (laughing so hard I am crossing my legs so as not to wet myself!)

GRUNT---Roy is a big guy. Can't.........move.........the.........chair.

Now you have to get this picture--I know the neighbors thought we had lost our minds: Uncontrollable laughter, dogs barking, Roy's butt is on the ground through the chair, I am pushing on the back of the chair, Roy's feet not able to touch the ground, he is lurching in a forward motion to help me get leverage while I push and both us are laughing so hard--we can barely breathe!

"PUSH!" "I...........AM!"

Finally, he gets his footing and stands. He looks just likes a "Three Stooges" scene where Curley's butt is stuck in a chair!!!! I absolutely loose it! I am laughing so hard, I can barely stand!!! I have to hold on to the door frame!

He shuffles to the edge of the patio......"Pull it off!".........that does it! I am totally useless! I am gone! I can't breathe I am laughing so hard! My stomach hurts! I can barely stand!

I stumble over to the chair, grab the legs and tug hard...once......twice....three times.....the chair comes off! The motion causes me to take a step backwards and causing Roy's pants to slip down as the chair comes off, and he sits down in the grass with responding thud!

He sits there a few moments.......reaches for his bottle of water.........chugs it..........slowly screws the cap back on...........he is just sitting there!!!!! Remember, I am laughing, hyena laughing, I can't breathe laughing, my stomach hurts laughing........oh my!

"You........ o........kay?" "Yeah" "Need help to get up?" "No-there is grass in my butt."

Well, that set me off even more!!!! I just know the neighbors are peeking through the fences trying to figure out what was going on. Roy and I are laughing so hard we can barely stand.

Roy gets up and brushes the grass off his butt and comes inside. We laugh about it all night long. Several times during the evening and even this morning, I break out in uncontrollable, convulsing laughter! Even as I write this, I am laughing so hard I cannot see what I am typing!!! Oh my!!!!!

Funeral services for the chair were held at the trash can shortly thereafter. Roy will need a new chair for 4th of July!

Amelia is in mourning.

Roy is injury free.

I am still laughing.

LemonLollipop Purchase

2009-06-06T17:11:00.002-05:00

I had recieved samples of http://LemonLollipop.etsy.com in a sample box. A small vial of Pink Vanilla(tm) Perfume Oil.

I was in love with this fragrance from the get-go! It reminded me of cake and cookies and cotton candy and the icing on the cakes my Grandpa and Grandma would make...................ummmmmm!

I contacted Michelle/PinkLollipop with my specific skin issue and she took the time to write a very informative response with helps and suggestions on how to help my problem. She put together as Sample Pack for me and sent it right out.

The samples she sent were delightful and after using them for several days, I ordered the Whipped Cream Soap and Perfume Oil Roll On in my favorite--PINK VANILLA!

The package was professional and well done--I worried because, in the Texas heat, things tend to melt if left in the mailbox too long (all you Texans out there raise a hand and say Amen to that!)

There are so many other goodies in this shop I am going to try..... Man, I wish I was independently wealthy! You should visit--you will love it too!

Summerlandscrubs Purchase

2009-06-06T16:40:00.002-05:00

I had to have a rather sudden surgery which left me and my body on a 24 hour/7 days a week roller coaster ride. I was not the happiest of campers in CheriLand!

I wanted to be comfortable--I wanted to be surround in sweet flowers with Sugar Plum Fairies dancing around me showering me with happy sunshine drops----you get the picture. I felt LOUSY and wanted to FEEL GOOD!!!!!!!!!!

In the meantime, I had orders a sample box in which Artisans nationwide contributed.

I received my box on one particular bad day in CheriLand. The box held candles, lotions, soaps, bath fizzies, scrubs, jewelry, wax melts-----just a whole lot of sample-y goodness.

There was a Lemon Cilanto Salt Scrub that peaked my interest. Perhaps a hot shower would make the citizen of CheriLand happy. I opened the sample jar and was immediately hit with a lemon-y aroma that actually brought a smile to my face!

The lemon fragrance filled the shower sending calm to my weariness. I placed some of the scrub in my hands and rubbed--the texture was very nice and satisfying! It felt wonderful on my skin, rinsed off totally, leaving my skin soft and soothed.

Throughout the rest of my day, I would catch a faint lemon-y scent and smile.

Okay--don't ya know that when that sample jar was empty, I made a bee-line to my computer--found my business cards and dialed up their shop....

http://summerlandscrubs.etsy.com

I ordered the 16OZ jar of my Lemon Cilantro Salty Smooth Scrub and paid for it one click!

In a matter of days, the package arrived. I tore into the package. My Scrub was sitting in a nest of pink tissue paper with a thank you note from Denise. So pretty!

I am so totally pleased with this whole experience of the Scrub--not the surgery! They have wonderful things in this shop--it is SOOOOOO worth your visit!!!

Oh and I am recovering nicely.

CrystalsByThePiece Purchase

2009-06-06T11:51:00.003-05:00

I love Swarovski Crystals! This shop is LOADED with them! http://crystalsbythepiece.etsy.com

I first contacted Sherri when I was looking for skirts for "Angel Watchers". She, unfortunately, did not have anything I could use for that. However, she had my favorite crystals!

I ordered. She shipped. I received. I created. I was happy! LIFE WAS G-O-O-D!!!!!

When I got a custom order which required purple crystals . I knew the place!

In fact I have been back several times for crystals and each & EVERY time Sherri/crystalsbythepiece has been attentive, very thorough, and professional!

I'll be back!!!!!

akaLulaBeads Purchase

2009-06-05T14:49:00.001-05:00

When you find a good supplier and merchant, you return again and again, right? Well, such is the case with this purchase! http://akaLulaBeads.etsy.com

I have returned to this shop four (4) times! The beads are excellent quality, superb customer service. Each visit I had questions and Maria would promptly and patiently answer each one. She put together several special requests for me. Why even when she on vacation, she communicated! Very high class seller! That is why I have returned 4 times!

Shipping was quick and efficient. My beads were well protected and there were several "surprises in each order! Not throw off beads real beads with the same quality that she sells!

I recommend Maria/akaLulaBeads. Also visit her jewelry shop LulaBeads. Beautiful work there too!

WindowSeatSoap Purchase

2009-06-05T13:01:00.001-05:00

Ya know, when you use bar soap and put it back on the soap dish, it gets all gooey and slimey? Oh gross! I just can't stand to touch it!!! Eeeewwwww!

I found the solution from http://windowseatsoap.etsy.com shop.
It is a Wooden Soap Deck. It has cuts into the wood in opposite directions to let the soap drain and dry so the "gooey-s" do not happen! I cannot stand my fingers gooey so this is the perfect soap dish for a gooey-phobe like me!

The shipping was very fast and professional. Windowseatsoap also has natural soaps and lotions and all good things for your body! Sure to meet all your skins needs! They sent a sample of hand lotion that felt like silk and smelled DELICIOUS!

Check them out!!!! You will love their products and your visit!

LittleSassy Purchase

2009-06-05T12:34:00.001-05:00

It was another ETC Monday Event--"What's New With ETC"! This is the day new members are introduced and us "oldies" can toot our our horn! I love to visit every one of the newbie's shop to see all the new talent. There is amazing talent on the ETC team!

On the back burner of my mind is..........I am looking for a purse tissue cover. I hate the way your pocket tissues get dirty and crumple-y in your purse! Okay--back to my purchase.

I entered http://littlesassy.etsy.com shop. She was a newbie and full of pep! She had the most adorable item in her shop! So cute! Beautiful colors! Excellent quality!

As I turned the "corner", my gaze fell upon a perfect pocket tissue cover!!!! It was denim, lined with a pink bandanna and had "God Bless You" embroidered on it! Isn't that adorable? And I found it to "fit the bill" of my back burner search! KEWL! You use a tissue when you sneeze and someone says to you " God bless you!". How perfect is that?

LittleSassy/Daisy sent my tissue cover right away-- with special goodies to boot!

I now have non-dirty and non-crumpled tissues in my purse and a very pleasant feeling after visiting LittleSassy's Shop! You will enjoy it too! Go and go often!!!!

SeaSprout Purchase

2009-06-05T11:18:00.001-05:00

I had received a custom order for a pair for earrings from Belgium! My first international order! The request was VERY SPECIFIC. I was a little nervous but after studying the picture the buyer supplied, I went on an Etsy search and found the exact beads I needed from http://seasprout.etsy.com

I needed them rather quickly as they were to be a Mother's Day Gift and in Belgium Mother's Day was two (2) weeks later than ours. I had four (4) weeks to get supplies, make the earrings, and mail them to Belgium. So I convo'd SeaSprout to asked how fast I could get them. Amanda responded almost immediately. She said she would get them in the mail to me first thing in the morning and I should have them in 3 - 4 days.

I got them in two (2) days and the beads are perfect! I completed the earrings and got them in the mail with a week to spare. My buyer provided the following feedback on the earrings: "Good service, mom was happy with earrings!"

SeaSprout/Amanda was very astute to my needs and provided excellent customer service so that I would be a success! I will be back for more beads in the future!!!

Thanks Amanda!!!

I wonder.........since this was an international order, does that make me "Known World Wide"?!!!!! Can I add that to my resume?!!!! LOL

kittylili Purchase

2009-06-05T10:21:00.001-05:00

I had decided to participate in the Little Black Box. One of the requirements for participation was a Shop Banner and suggested http://kittylili.etsy.com

I gave her my shop address and bowed to her expertise to choose the best things from my shop to use as a banner.

Look at what she did for me!!!!! It's PERFECT!!! I PLEASED beyond words!!!!! I use it for my avatar on Etsy! I love it--just L-O-V-E it!!!!! The price was so reasonable and so very worth it!

If you need a banner or anything else, contact kittylili. You will not be disappointed!

SweetWolf Purchase

2009-06-05T10:00:00.001-05:00

I have had my eye on the most awesome wristlet in the world for a very long time! Or at least in TEXAS !!!!!

It was the delightful creation from http://sweetwolf.etsy.com.

Being a Native Texan, this was DESTINED to my MINE!

So when ETC Has Secrets Monday rolled around - I made my move! I pounced on the opportunity!

After Etsy's normal purchasing procedure and about a week, my wristlet was home!

I am so pleased with my purchase.

Not only was my wristlet in the package, SweetWolf included a business card holder and a purse mirror! Everything was BEAUTIFUL! My Daughter-in Law, who is a Native Floridian, even commented how cute it was and if SweetWolf made one with
Orange Blossoms and an Orange on it--she would have to get it!!!!!

Of course positive feedback was this purchase's destiny!!!

TheHeadsCreation Purchase

2009-06-05T09:32:00.001-05:00

I had an idea for an "Angel Guard Treasure Box". Again, my brain was over loaded with "Angel Guard" ideas that I just had to get out of there!!!!!

I knew I wanted a white ceramic box of some sort. I was unsure if there was an Etsy seller who had unfinished ceramic boxes but I searched anyway.

Much to my surprise my search resulted in one(1) seller: http://TheHeadsCreation.etsy.com.
(Side note: I just went to their shop to copy their avatar. There is some AWESOME things there. I especially like the eyeball. Go visit and see what I mean!)

Anyway, they had a listing for "Ceramic Bisque Boxes - decorate your own"-- PERFECT JUST WHAT I WANTED!!!! And there were TWO!!

Within the week, a box arrived however much to my dismay the box was crushed and opened in transit! I was very nervous as to the condition of my ceramic boxes. I cautiously opened the box, hoping upon hope that all was well inside.......they had packed everything SO WELL......my boxes were fine--not a scratch! They were exactly as pictured and exactly what I wanted!

I made my "Angel Guard Treasure Boxes and they are available for purchase in my Etsy Boutique.

I will return for all my ceramic box needs--TheHeadsCreation was wonderful!!!!

BeadAddiction2621 Purchase

2009-06-05T09:05:00.001-05:00

I saw these while shopping for the supplies for my "Angel Watcher" earrings and an idea slammed into my head!

Little Angel Wings Charms from http://beadaddiction2621.etsy.com

I was so excited! These would be PERFECT for an Angel Bracelet idea my brain would NOT let me forget!!!! The idea was actually keeping me up at night!

I needed more than the listing stated so I convo's Sandra and ask if she had more. She promptly returned convo'd stating she could fulfill my need. AWESOME!!

I ordered them and as usual the USPS did not let me down--they delivered in two days and delight ensued!!! BeadAddiction2621 must have sent them the day of my purchase as they arrived so soon.

I made the aforementioned bracelet, showing it to a valued friend for a critique, who promptly asked me how much it was and I had a sale and 5 custom orders for the bracelet! My head was spinning!

I am certain it was the wings that gave it the umph! And it all started with browsing--yielding in a most easy and satisfying transaction with BeadAddiction2621. Positives all around!

MountainShadowDesign Purchase

2009-06-04T17:22:00.001-05:00

Prior to moving from Wisconsin back home to Texas, someone gave me purple Angel Earrings. She said she had received them as a gift and they were not her style so she passed them onto me. Lucky me and I was thrilled--they were two of my favorite things--purple and Angels!

Fast forward to March 2009 when my car was vandalized (you can read about that in my blog entry dated 3/13/2009 :Out of Fear something Beautiful Came") and my "Angel Guards" were conceived, I remembered those earrings. I renamed them "Angel Watchers" and set out to reproduce them.

I found http://MountainShadowDesign.etsy.com They had the perfect beads for the wings of my "Angel Watchers"! Crystal AB Cresent Beads!

I was ecstatic! Maybe I could reproduce these adorable earrings! I quickly committed to buy as there was only one set in stock.

I also ordered more of these beads a month later. In both instances, shipping was fast and very professional. My beads arrived in a padded envelope and much to my surprise, samples were also included each time. Not seconds! Actually samples I could incorporate into my pieces!!!!

I have a habit of IMMEDIATELY stopping everything I am doing, rush to my work table and make whatever I brought the beads for. Such it was in this case. I worked feverishly until my version of the "goal earrings" were perfected. By the way, my "Angel Watcher" Earrings are for sale in my shop (a link to my Shop is over at the right of my blog).

I highly recommend MountainShadowDesign for getting beads. I know I will be returning again!!!!

2TeensandaToddler Purchase

2009-06-04T16:07:00.001-05:00

Holy Cow! This was the quickest, easiest Etsy purchase I ever made!

My niece had the first GREAT-Grandchild & niece in our family. Which, I must say, has been a wonderful bundle of joy!

Stephanie wanted one of those puffy pads that you put in grocery carts and high chairs in restaurants to keep the baby safe from germs but she could not find one! So it is Grandma to the rescue!

My Mom (Grandma) was telling me that she wished she could find a pattern and she would make one for the baby. Well, being the Etsy fan that I am, and knowing that if it exists, someone makes it on Etsy--I suggested we look!

Suer enough, we find many already-made ones but Mom/Grandma wanted a pattern to make it for her.
So the search deepens and we find the "Sew EZ PDF Sewing Instructions Pattern to Make Shopping Cart Covers"

from http://2TeensandaToddler.etsy.com

Like I said -- this was the easiest purchase I have made!!!!
In a matter of moments, the pattern was emailed to us. It was almost INSTANTANEOUS!

We print it out. It is very clearly written with illustrations.

The following weekend, Mom/Grandma makes the cover and Stephanie is BEYOND pleased with the results. Our baby is protected in the grocery store!!!!

DeathlyCute Purchase

2009-06-04T15:32:00.001-05:00

I was feeling rather miserable as I was having acute reactions to the allergy shots I was taking. Here's pictures of the reactions--Ugh! Anyway the nurse told me to start going home and putting ice packs on my arms right away after the shots. GREAT--GEEZ!

So I went home and since it was ETC Has Secrets Monday, I sign into Etsy to browse my Team Mates shops to see if I could find the Secrets.

Well, donchaknow, I FOUND one! Achy Paks Butterfly Squares Set from http://deathlycute.etsy.com
With the purchase of this set, I would get a FREE Achy Eye Pak!

Woohoo! Sign me up! Were is that "Pay by PayPal" button?!!

No real communication was necessary as it was ETC Has Secrets Monday and the deal was set in stone!

My Achy Paks arrived the next day!!!!! They only had to travel 30 miles by truck to my door. The fabric was bright green and pink with cute little butterflies all over them. The only thing I would have done differently is the packaging. It appeared they were just tossed into a box, no cute ribbon like the picture, not wrapped in tissue, and not even a business card.

I LOVE, I mean L-O-V-E, my Achy Paks. 20 minutes in the freezer and they are cold for 20 minutes. Shortly after I recieved them, I had to have my thyroid removed. They were the PERFECT size to fit right under my chin and rest there very comfortably. They conformed to the "injury" site and were VERY comforting. The only bad thing as they warmed up, their yummy rice smell made me hungry for rice!!!!!! Baaaadd for my waistline!!!!

Of course, DeathlyCute gets a positive feedback score! The Achy Paks are FANTABULOUS and GREAT for all the "ow-ies" and "ouch-ies" in your life!

yummytreasures Purchase

2009-06-04T15:10:00.001-05:00

I was perusing for beads on Etsy one night in March when I stumbled upon these beauties: Vintage Style Deep Purple Etched Teardrop Beads from http://yummytreasures.etsy.com

Well, if you have known me for any amount of time over, oh let's say, a MINUTE, you know that purple is my favorite colors. Every shade or combination of it! I like purple with purple was an unpopular color. Why my CB handle was "The Purple Pickle"!!!! Okay, I'll stop!!

Anyway, these beads are gorgeous! I want them! I had to have them! What can I make with them! I don't care! They must be MINE!!!!

I clicked "Commit to Buy", signed into PayPal--which is just too easy for me--and those beauties are MINE!

I did not have any other communication outside of the normal Etsy communications that come with a purchase. Three days later my beads were in safely my mailbox. I squealed with delight as they fell into my hand from the padded envelope, their residence on the cross-country journey to my house.

Immediately, I sit down at my desk and fashion these BEAUTIFUL BEADS into the MOST BEAUTIFUL EARRINGS--which are available in my shop. The earrings are not One Of A Kind as I made myself a pair too. I guess you could say they are One of a TWO of a Kind!!!!

Once again, yummytreasures gets positive feedback and I get a special pair of earrings!

Etsy Texas Crafters Purchase

2009-06-04T12:53:00.001-05:00

Back in February, I was planning on having a booth at the "Blooming Temple" event with two of my Etsy Texas Crafters Team members. We wanted to make up Etsy Texas Crafters Promo bags to hand out to promote the Team.

I visited the Team Shop--

http://EtsyTexasCrafters.etsy.com

--I wanted to purchase ETC flyers for the the bags and a Taste of Texas Grab Bag just for me! I paid through PayPal (which is just too simple!) but I asked if I could just pick up the flyers. I was to meet the shop curator for lunch to help organize the promo items in the shop. Saves the Team postage!

I must say that not only was I pleased with my flyers--you should see the stuff I got in the Taste of Texas Grab Bag!

HOLY COW!!!!

Several pairs of earrings, 'fridge magnets, a bracelet, notepads, stickers, doo dads, coupons -- it was just WONDERFUL!!!! It was jammed packed!!!!

Oh and the flyers had every color imaginable! With every bit of information about the Etsy Texas Crafters you could ever want! There was even a coupon for money off on purchases from the shop!!!!

Lunch was pretty awesome too! (Shout out to BJ's Brewhouse in Temple!)

Follow-up to the "Blooming Temple" Event: I had to cancel due to deaths in our family but I heard the Event was FANTABULOUS!!!!

Maybe next year!

UniqueRM purchase

2009-06-04T12:23:00.001-05:00

I was in a "Wanna Trade?" chat room on Etsy back in January. I was looking for a checkbook cover-one that had a flap in it because I have duplicate checks. I randomly asked if anyone made "such a critter" and UniqueRM said she could make me one

I checked out her shop http://UnqueRM.etsy.com

She had wonderful totes! And blankets! Her fabrics are awesome! She makes some awesome things!!!!

Ooooo--a section for checkbook covers!

"Delightful!" I thought as a smile broke out on my face!

I was particularly drawn to a purple paisley fabric but she did not have the style of checkbook cover I wanted so I asked if she could make one in that fabric.

Now remember, we are in a chat room. If you have ever been in a chat room you know that it can be mass confusion. Comments are flying everywhere! It is like trying to talk to someone about being a bridesmaid in their wedding, while you are trying to serve birthday cake to a room full of kids and you are holding a balloon bouquet, and a puppy all at the same time!!!!

UniqueRm was attentive and spoke to me directly amongst the confusion, understood my wishes, and told me that within the week she would list it for me!

True to her word, she listed it!
Here's the listing: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20249135

Three days later in the mail, I received my "Made Just For Me Purple Paisley Checkbook Cover With A Duplicate Flap"! It was EXACTLY as I pictured it to be! It even had a loop to hold my pen! Perfect, just perfect!!!!

I was and AM altogether pleased!!!!! Of course she got POSITIVE FEEDBACK!

I WANT TO MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT:

2009-06-04T12:21:00.000-05:00

**ahem-ahem-ahem-pfumph-pfumph-pfumph(me tapping on the microphone)***

I have decided to blog about my Etsy purchases. I intend to write about the whys, hows, and whats of my purchases, my experience in dealing with the seller, my joy and (hopefully not) my sorrow upon receiving my purchase. I will post a link to your shop and the item I purchased from you. In doing so I am hoping that you will benefit along with me.

So.......if you have sold or traded with me--watch my blog--you might be there soon! I will be adding to my blog daily until I catch up to my current purchases. I am waiting to leave feedback on 7 items! I am not telling you how many purchases I've made

Marketing Experiment: Etsy Showcase VS ETC First Monday Event

2009-06-02T08:42:00.000-05:00

I decided to do an experiment. I decided to purchase an Etsy Showcase. I heard pros and cons to the Showcases. The biggest con being why market to fellow Etsy-ians? The pros--exposure!

So after reading the how to's, I committed to buy. Which Showcase to join? I choose the Ceramic & Pottery Showcase as I am known as a Polymer Clay Artist who also has expertise in Jewelry Making, Excellent Quality, and Superior Customer Service.

Now......to the choice of the Day to have my Showcase. I looked at all the options. I figured that it would be best to have the Showcase on a Saturday--most people were home and would be on the computer. Also, I would choose a day that had the least amount of spots open as that would be indicative of a good day -- it must be good day 'cause more people chose that day for their Showcase.

After seeing my results, I realized that my thought processes were wrong and the results were disappointing:
Craftcult.com(majaba): increased item views by 71; hearts increased by 2
Google Analytics: 38 visits; 77 page or items views -- 20 were direct visits; 8 were from Etsy Finds; 3 from Google; 2 from Facebook; the rest were single visits from various other sites.
No (0) sales.

While I did have an increased views to my items, my investment of $7.00 cost me 9 cents per view. In my research, I have discovered that the weekends are NOT good days for web marketing, as it is the time most people are doing chores or family things and shopping/surfing the web is not a priority. The highest web shopping occurs on Mondays, followed closely by Fridays. I also suggest not buying a Showcase that is close to being full. As I saw a few of my items in the rotation, I tend to believe that if there were fewer Shops in the Showcase, the rotation rate would be faster and my items would have had more exposure.

It is interesting to note that ETC First Monday Sale had very different results and cost me nothing more than time--13 posts over 12 hour period in which I actively participated in the First Monday Thread.
Craftcult.com(majaba): increased item views by 7; hearts increased by 2; and item hearts increased by 3
Google Analytics: 40 visits; 112 page or items views --12 were direct visits; 6 were from Etsy Finds; 3 from Google; 6 from Facebook; the rest were 2 visits from various other sites.
One (1) sale. (yay!)

Conclusion: Even though my results are relatively the same for my Etsy Showcase and ETC First Monday Sale Event, the fact is First Monday was a better investment because I had sale. And that's what it is all about!

I have also noted an increase in exposure and visits from sending my promo items to the ETC Promo Swap, Sew Crafty Event in Houston, Funky Finds in Fort Worth and The Little Black Box. I did not physically have a booth at any of these events--I only mailed my promo items to them! All of these events occurred in the last six(6) week. During this time, I have had 453 visits and 1,123 items view. In this six(6) week period, I have had 13 sales. I was averaging 5 sales a month prior to my marketing efforts.

I cannot retire on the profits from my Etsy shop (***sigh***), however, I am pleased with my efforts. Marketing is hard. It involves alot of work. However, if not done, how will you drive people to your shop in order to make sales?

Marketing is the tool to increased exposure and SALES!!!!

Weed Whackers Are EVIL!

2009-06-01T10:52:00.000-05:00

ENOUGH SAID!!!!

Funeral Services will be in the side yard at noon!

The Joy of Creating!

2009-05-27T12:51:00.000-05:00

I got an email for a custom order--HeartStones! I LOVE to make HeartStone. I just L-O-V-E it!!!!

So........I open the clay. It is cold and stiff in my hands. I start to knead it and roll it into a ball, the clay begins to stain my palms. I notice my fingerprint. It is perfect in the clay--every detail, every ridge, every swirl. I am reminded that, as God put it, I am fearfully and wonderfully made!

The clay begins to soften, my palms are deeply stained. "It's okay, it washes off", I remind myself. I put the clay in the pasta machine and leisurely turn the handle. The lump of clay moves so slowly as if it enjoys the pressure of the rollers. A perfect sheet of polymer clay. I fold it over, totally enjoying the feel of the smoothness of the clay, and put it between the rollers. Once again, I turn the handle and a perfect sheet of clay emerges--smooth as glass.

I repeat this same action again.......17......18......19.........20 times. It is ready!

I am now holding a perfectly refined piece of polymer clay. Perfectly conditioned and ready to yield to my bidding, ready to be formed by my will, ready to become what I think is best.......................the clay is waiting on me to make it "be".

I begin humming........then I realize the words of the song I am humming.........

"Have Thine own way, Lord, have Thine own way!
You are the Potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me, after Thy will,
while I am waiting, perfectly still."

I am humbled.

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-25T17:42:00.000-05:00

Today I salute and honor those of my family who have served and are serving our Country:

Roy's Father, Roy
my Brother-in-Law, Mark
my Sister-in-Law, Diana
my husband's Cousin who died while serving our Country (hubby never knew him),
my Nephew, Paul
my Husband, Roy
Roy's Uncles, Albert and Edward
my Father, Jack
Roy's Grandfather, Roy
my Uncle, Fred
my Cousin, Fred
my Cousin-in-Law, Dale
my Grandfathers, Fred and Jim
our Son, Eric

These brave men and woman served in Air Force, the Navy and the Army. I am grateful for their service and sacrifice to our great United States of America!

Last night we watched the Memorial Day Show to Honor Our Nation's Heros on PBS. It was very moving. There was not a dry eye in the room. As I watched a story about how a Mother stood beside her critically injured Son ignoring the doctor's predictions of his death, she refused to believe he would die. He is alive and she cares for him 24/7 as he suffered a brain injury and can no longer care for himself. I realized God has truly blessed our family. I am so grateful that the above was not a path God required of our family or of me. My military members all came home alive and not in a steel box. I sincerely thank you, God!

Thank you to all who serve!

Have you ever had a day................................................

2009-05-25T08:07:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a day when you wanted a brownie? The thick.......1" to 2" thick.........and chewy........ya know............ real gooey and chewy? .............................. I have!

So I went to the "Ye Olde Bakery" and there it was in all it's chocolaty glory! I could taste it just standing in line to buy! Why it was at least 1 1/2" thick! And you could see that it was chewy--it had a dark center and oozed yummy chocolaty goodness! My mouth was ready! My taste buds stood at attention in anticipation. My saliva glands were in full gushing mode. I BOUGHT IT - IT WAS MINE!!!!!!! OOOOOHHHH........I SOOOO want this Chocolate Brownie! I am NOT sharing!!!!!!

I took the bag and settled in the front seat of my car. I calmly drove home. I was not feeling very good that day so I decided to wait to eat my precious chocolate treasure later in the evening. SO I set it on the kitchen cabinet, pushing it way back to the wall, so seeking paws could not reach it. I was careful--very careful!

Dinner was over. Dishes were done. Good night for TV. I was in my favorite recliner with my Precious Chocolaty Treasure in hand. I un-wrap the plastic wrap--Man! the Bakery really wrapped it well--at least 3 times! That meant chewy goodness for sure! As I continue peeling the wrap from my momentarily most treasured possession, Amelia jumps onto the couch. Her eyes fixed on my chocolaty goodness. Saliva at the brink of drool, she licks her lips. I remind her it is my Brownie and it is NOT for Amelia! She is transfixed by the allure of it's sweet scent of promise.

Just then nature calls! The alarm is harsh and cramping so I MUST answer. I re-wrap my so anticipated Brownie, securing the ooey, gooey, delightfulness inside and rush to answer the call. Amelia jumps down, escorts me to the throne room, making sure I am seated comfortably, and goes back to the living room. I am not too concerned for the Brownie as there were more pressing issues at hand..........................................

Completing the aforementioned tasked, I eagerly return to my recliner and my Brownie. Oh the sweetness....Oh the chocolate treasure....I am ready...the one thing I have longed for all day....my taste buds are on full alert....I even drool a little.....I turn the corner.....I can smell the chocolate....oh.

AMELIA ATE MY BROWNIE!!!!! Crumbs still clinging to her whiskers, she licks her lips in supreme delight. It is gone! The plastic wrap licked clean. Not a morsel of chocolaty goodness to be seen! The beloved and desired object of my passion is in the stomach of a very happy and contented DOG!

"Amelia, bad dog! Very bad dog!", I exclaim in complete and utter disappointment.

She looks a me with her cute little 'bobo' face and says, "Yes, I did eat it! And I liked it!".

How can you argue with that????? Is the Bakery open on Memorial Day?

Lil HeartBird Prototype

2009-05-18T12:10:00.000-05:00

Here is the prototype of my Lil HeartBird!

They can be made as magnets, lapel pins, window dazzlers, gift/scrapbook embellishments, etc.

I am very excited! What do you think?

Keep an Eye out for Lil HeartBirds

2009-05-18T09:04:00.001-05:00

I am working on a new item "Lil HeartBirds to carry your burdens away!" My team mate Kelley of http://TatteredTapestry.etsy.com set the idea in motion. I am hoping to debut them today or tomorrow!
They will be made of polymer clay--my favorite medium--and they will have glitz!!!!
I envision them as window decorations, Christmas ornaments, package decorations, scrapbooking embellishments, even use in a baby mobile. The ideas and possibilities just don't stop!!!

Personal note:
Back from a weekend in San Antonio with Eric and Lenise! As you know, they just transferred from Florida to San Antonio and we had to go visit!
Did we have a great time? ABSOLUTELY!!!

When we left I did not have that sad, sinking, not knowing feeling because instead of being 2 DAYS away they are only 2 HOURS away! Their house is cute. They are still decorating and setting it up but it is cute! I am so happy for them (and Roy and I).

Eric says he is liking his new job. He is struggling with "Getting Used to New Co-Workers Germs Syndrome". He has hoarseness and nasal drainage but once he builds a resistance and get used to the rather "LOUD" voice he needs to use with the Trainees, he will do great! He was off on Saturday and admitted he missed the Trainees!!!! On Sunday when Eric came into work, his mentor asked if we had a good time with our visit and Eric told him yes and we were going home later that day. His mentor told him to go home and continue the visit and be back at the training pod at 4:00pm! That was about 10:00am! So we got to spend Sunday with Lenise AND Eric too! We planned to leave about 4:00pm anyway so it was perfect! Lenise went to work Saturday morning and we had breakfast at her Starbucks! She is so good! I am SO PROUD of her and it was fun to watch her work! She found another Starbucks less than 5 minutes away from their house and will be transferring there in September! She is such a good Barrista. She made coffee at the house for us Sunday morning and of course it was FANTASTIC!!!

Oh--I am just do proud of them!

Can you tell we had a GREAT time?

Our Creative World: itsmeCheri

2009-05-16T17:41:00.000-05:00

It is with great honor that I share with you to the following:

Our Creative World: itsmeCheri

I have been featured in this wonderful blog about creativity. Please read and comment!

I am humbled!

My Cup Runneth Over!!!

2009-05-06T10:21:00.000-05:00

I am on Cloud 9! I am so BLESSED!!!

My kids are home! When Eric first hugged me he said, "I am home Mom! I am home!" Lenise just smiled and hugged me!

It was WONDERFUL!!!

This is the first Mother's Day in eight(8) years that I am going to be with the reason I am a Mother!

My cup runneth over!

I can't stop thinking....my brain's on overload!

2009-04-20T12:56:00.001-05:00

I can't stop thinking....my brain's on overload!

#1--Angle Guards! My brain is making them in my sleep! Everything I see inspires another Angel Guard design! I think God is trying to tell me that I do have a Guardian Angel and I do have protection! I have made Angel Guards, AG magnets, AG boxes, AG necklace/earrings set, and AG charms. I have ideas for AG Window Dazzlers, AG HeartStones------------it won't stop! I LOVE IT!!! I just have to get these ideas out of my head!

#2--I think Amelia is an Agility Dog! She is fast! She learns quick! She aims to please! I think she would be a great candidate for agility training. I am looking into how to start in this. Any suggestions are welcomed.

#3--I am feeling better and now all the things that had to slide for the last 3 weeks are on my mind! House cleaning; laundry; yard work; car washing; dog walks; AARRRGGHHHHH!

Help! My brain's on overload and I can't stop!

Normal Days!

2009-04-14T21:52:00.000-05:00

I am creating and creating!!!!!!!

I have posted pictures on my new Facebook business page. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Temple-TX/Its-me-Cheri-Boutique/81570847864?ref=nf
Please go visit and become my follower!

Now that I am feeling better, I find I have energy to work on my creations and Etsy Texas Crafters things. (I am on the leadership team). The surgery was a lot harder than I anticipated. I am having a bit of difficulty adjusting to the medicine I must take the rest of my life--but I will and it will get better!!!!!

My Angel Guards and Angel Watchers are getting a lot of praise. People really like them. My HeartStones are accepted really well. Both have been used to help people through difficult issues: a Mom/Wife gave one to her daughter and husband as she had an incurable disease; a Sister gave a HeartStone and an Angel Guard to her little Brother who was deploying; a Friend gave one to her Friend who is fighting cancer; a PenPal gave one to her long time PenPal..............these are just some of the stories I've heard.

I wanted to create something that brought people hope and encouragement. I believe I have. I just wish I could get HeartStones and Angel Guards and Angel Watchers to more people!!!!!!!!! Just to make them SMILE!!!!

These are all availiable at my Web Boutique
http://itsmeCheri.etsy.com

Angel Guards

2009-03-30T15:58:00.000-05:00

Angel Guards

Coming Soon to http://berrybluecreations.etsy.com and http://itsmecheri.etsy.com

Angel Guards.

These are not your average Guardian Angels. They are the collaborative creations of two friends and teammates inspired from a scary experience where Angels stood guard. You'll have your choice of color combination between Polymer Clay Angel Guards and Angel Watcher Earrings in itsmeCheri's shop or Fabric Tote Bags in berrybluecreations' shop.

So be on the lookout for Angel Guards and get some to guard your angels.

So here's what is going on..........

2009-03-25T17:16:00.000-05:00

In December 2008, I had allergy testing done. My allergy doctor, Dr. Starr, was very thorough and check everything out. All was good except the allergies! Yikes--127 little shots in one week! No fun! I am allergic to trees, dust, molds, and cats. I also had a cough that x-rays showed nothing. The shots have been okay--I react to them each time. This last time was particularly bad and Dr Starr has said to stop the shots for a while.

I went to see my general doctor, Dr Jessie in February and told him I just didn't feel good. I was tired alot, achey, my hair was weird, -- just generally felt bad. And I had a cough. He checked me out and I had a bad case of bronchitis almost pneumonia. So I was on antibiotics for 2 weeks.

Well, on March 16, I went back to Dr Starr for an allergy check-up. You can read about that in the post before this one. One thing that I did not mention was Dr Starr found a large mass in my thyroid and he scheduled an ultrasound to see what it was. By the way, I still had the cough. The ultrasound came back and I have a tumor and nodules in my thyroid. I needed a biopsy to see what was going on. Well, I had the biopsy on March 24--yesterday. There is a 3.5cm sized benign tumor and nodules in my thyroid. It is interfering with talking and I cough when I talk or sing. I have a funny hissing noise at the end of breaths. Weird, huh? Well, at least they figured out the cough!

Anyway, I have surgery to remove my thyroid Thursday, April 2 and I am okay with it! God has placed several people in my path who have had this surgery and they all say that is it not too bad and after the initial "get well" period, I will feel a lot better. I am looking forward to that. Today I do not feel good. The position they had my head in yesterday to do the biopsy, hurt the muscles in my neck so my neck is sore and hurts to move. And I am just tired! Also, it has been gray and rainy for the last two days which makes me down. I have every light on in the house! Roy thinks I am crazy!

So between now and next Thursday, I want to get the house in tip top shape and get meals prepared. I am tired and do not feel real good so this will be a challenge. Please remember me in your prayers. Also pray for Roy, he will have to cook meals for a few days. We have done this a few times in the past and he is just not a good cook. **sigh**

It's all good! And it will just fine!!!

I AM SO MAD & FRUSTRATED!!!!!!!

2009-03-16T21:41:00.000-05:00

I went to the Allergy Doctor today, expecting him to tell me I am doing very well.

AH! Not so!!!!

He asked how the shots were going and I told him I have a reaction every time. I just happened to have had shots this morning and so I showed him the reaction.

Man! Before I could blink an eye, he called someone and three nurses appeared. The site of the shot was over 5cm and I was coughing and head achy. They rubbed stuff on my arms, took my blood, and set me up for a sonogram to check my chest. Oh and I still have an Upper Respiratory Infection and Sinusitis! No pneumonia or bronchitis--Praise the Lord!

So I left his office today with sore arms, a hole in my blood vessel, chest still hurting, head hurting, still coughing and a prescription for another course of antibiotics!!!!! Ugh! Now I know that I am tired for a reason!

I have been creating though all this. I have made some Angel Guards and plan to post them to my Etsy shop soon. http://itsmeCheri.etsy.com I am also working on two multi-stand beaded necklace. Those little beads are a "sucker" to work with but OH the result is fantastic!!!

Here's pictures of my arms from the shots. One is 6cm big and the other is 8cm big! They are not supposed to have a reaction at all! Geez! Ow!

Thanks for listening to me "gritch" about my doctor's appointment! Please add me to your prayers!

Out of fear- something Beautiful came!

2009-03-13T15:09:00.000-05:00

Someone vandalized my car! Yes the new one Roy gave me for Christmas!

It all started with a flat tire. When I took it to Discount Tire, I asked for the nail. Not sure why at the time but, boy howdy, I know why now! They removed a sharpen screw driver shank. They were very surprised, as was I, and had me call the police right away. The Policeman came, looked at it, and asked if I had any enemies! That is when the fear set in. I called Roy and we went to Lowe's for outside lighting--extra bright light bulbs and solar lights. I also cleaned out the garage to fit my car in along with Roy's car and the Harley. Anyway, that night before going to sleep I prayed that God would put Angels around our house, yard, driveway and cars.

The next day while talking with my friends on Etsy-the idea hit me--Angel Guards. Here is my entry on my conversation in which the idea hit me: "I asked God to surround our house, yard, driveway, and cars with angels! Oo oo oo--I think I need to create something with angels.............thinking.......yes, angel items to be coming soon........maybe call them Angel Guards...."

Well, here is the Angel Guard Prototype. PLEASE tell me what you think. I am very pleased with how it came out.

So ............ out of fear--Something Beautiful came!!!!

Oooohhh!

2009-03-10T12:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I am not going to do the Blooming Temple Craft Show! I am very disappointed. Finances do not allow it at this time!

I have had three (3) deaths in my family since February 10. Grandpa, Mother-in-Law, and a very, very close family friend in Roy's side of the family. We went on a rushed trip to Pennsylvania-traveling 3 days out of 7. I am a little weary.

I will miss Mom Cline! She lived her life vigorously and with great joy! She was a constant source of entertainment. She is greatly missed!

I posted new items in my Shop today. Check 'em out, if you want!
http://itsmeCheri.etsy.com

I've decided!

2009-02-23T17:24:00.000-06:00

I have decided to try a craft fair again! I am going to do the Blooming Temple Craft fair in April. Two of my Etsy Texas Crafter team mates are doing it with me. I really hope this one goes much better that my last one! I am working on things to go in my shop. I have several and have to spend a day taking pictures to list everything. But.......because I have been so sick, (see below), I have not been able to keep up with housework. So my goal is to get everything in order with my house Monday through Wednesday and work on my Etsy shop Thursday and Friday. I am VERY excited about my new items and cannot wait to share them!

I had a disappointment: I was not able to go to Grandpa's funeral. The day he died I was diagnosed with a very bad case of bronchitis, possibly pneumonia (wow! I am surprised I can spell that)! Anyway. The doctor would not let me go. They video'ed it for me and I watched that today. It was wonderful. I wished I could have been there. Oh well!

Roy and I went to San Antonio to look at a house that Eric and Lenise are thinking of renting. It was very nice. And Eric told us that they have decided to rent it! I cannot not put into words of how glad I am that they will be in Texas. It is a direct answer to my prayers. Thank you Jesus!

Well, off to cook dinner! Yum!

Memories of Grandpa!

2009-02-11T11:38:00.001-06:00

Having actually live with Grandpa while my Dad was stationed oversea in 1967 and spending many a summer with he and Grandma, he was a great influence in my whole life.

The elaborate birthday cakes he and Grandma would fix! Oh my goodness, they were FANTASTIC. Made me feel like a princess so many times! I had a summer birthday and I got many of his wonderful creations! I believe watching him decorate cakes (and eating many of those decoration without him knowing) has helped me in my creativity today and the quality of my work. He always wanted the cakes to be perfect and would start over if it was not! He was a good example to me in establishing my work ethic.

He was a great Preacher and Man of God. I remember many a sermon that he would get so excited, he actually seemed to floating off the ground! I also remember him saying MANY times "Cheryl!" and snapping his fingers during the middle of his sermons as I was misbehaving! Go figure! I especially loved Baptism Sunday. The service was beautiful and Grandpa would preach fantastic sermons. But, the next day, before Grandpa cleaned the baptismal tub, my sister, Rhonda, and I got to go "swimming"! Good times!

I will never forget him praying for me! I just knew that if he prayed, all would be well. He and Grandma were prayer warriors and I saw many miracles as are result of those prayers. On one particular night, while kneeling beside me while I said my "Now I Lay Me" prayers, I asked Jesus to give Grandpa enough money to buy a swing set. Don't you know, the next day when I got home from school, there was a swing set in the backyard!!! He taught me the importance of prayer, not just for the little things like swing sets, but in the major and mundane things of life.

He and I would always watch war movies after the evening service on Sunday nights. Grandma would make hamburgers with the softest buns in the whole wide world. That was the only time that we were allowed to eat in the "Front Room" and it was magical to me.

I also remember spankings! I never felted so much terror in my life as when, after I had done some sort of mischief, (I wasn't always the angel-child everyone has come to know and love), Grandma would say, "Wait till I tell your Grandfather!" I knew I was in for it! There were not too many spankings and they were never done without a reason but they were memorable!

I also remember how perturbed he was when, on the way home from school, my sister, Rhonda, bit the dashboard of Grandpa's car. (Cars had soft dashboards back then.) Her teeth prints were still there when he sold the car years later. We asked Rhonda why she did it, and she said she didn't like the new car and wanted the blue one back! Grandpa was totally perplexed as now he had to explain the bite marks on the dash to everyone who rode in his car! Good times!

Anyway--he was a big influence to everyone who touched his life. I will miss him dearly! I know all of Heaven is rejoicing! And he and Grandma are strolling, arm and arm, praising their Beloved Jesus and have the best of time!

Reverand James L. Watkins, my Grandpa

2009-02-10T07:30:00.000-06:00

My Grandpa died during the night.

I imagine that Grandma was waiting for him at the "Gate of Heaven" and when he walked through, she threw her arms around him, and they walked arm in arm into the dawn--Grandma making introductions and Grandpa shaking hands!

God is definitely saying to Grandpa, "Well done, my good and faithful Servant!"

I love you, Grandpa!

A "Doh!" moment

2009-02-06T12:51:00.000-06:00

Well, I had some people tell me that I mentioned my Web Boutique in my last post but forgot to put the address! So I went back and read my post.

DOH!

The address is http://itsmecheri.etsy.com

I am thinking about doing other craft show. I am nervous because the first one I ever did was a FLOP! It was at a church but it was not a good location, wasn't advertised well, and was hard to see from the street!!!! They had a bounce house but put it in the BACK of the church so not one saw it! I was very disappointed and that experience has left me nervous.

Here some pictures of some of the items I have in my Boutique!

Bookworm Bookmarks;
Woven Hat;
Discples Cross;
Military HeartStones

Time for an Update!

2009-02-03T09:28:00.000-06:00

Well, I am not sure what happened to my other blog! It just disappeared! I have cut & paste the last entry to remind myself what I was talking about!

We have been home for 11 months! What an 11 months that has been! Lots to update so here goes:
We are enjoying reconnecting with our family. We had the pleasure of attending our nephew, Ryan's wedding; our niece, Stephanie's wedding; going to movies, local restaurants, and taking adventures with my folks; welcoming our great-niece, Isabella into the world; Thanksgiving with our family; and Christmas in Texas! I told Roy last Christmas, after we put Eric & Lenise on the plane back to Tampa, that I was spending next Christmas in Texas! It was like we had never left! (sort of) We have reunited with our best-est of friends; Keith & Kay and Terry & Jennifer; which has been fantastic! (On a side note: Keith is stable. He struggles daily with the issues that cancer brings but he is stable. Kay is holding up well but needs your prayers too.) Coming home has been the BEST thing! Both Roy and I realize that we should have never left--Texas is where we belong. WE ARE HOME!

Roy is doing VERY well. He is enjoying his job and is well liked by his bosses and co-workers. He continues to need nurses (it's the nature of the industry) but his staff is very supportive and cooperative. He appears to be handling the constant pain well--calls it his best friend (?). There are still days he is in so much pain but God has given him the grace and tools to handle it better. He suffers so much and it just makes me so very sad! The cold of Wisconsin was WAY TOO MUCH for him and he was in constant pain. A Texas Winter has been much easier and he has suffered less. Otherwise he is so happy (finally) and content. He smiles & jokes more and enjoys the times we are with family and friends more. He is more "inter-active" with life! Happiness!!!!

I am enjoying creating for my shop. I have expanded what I make and am learning so much! I feel my quality has increased and am very proud of my creations! Here's the address of my shop. Please visit and tell me your thoughts and opinions, ideas for what I can make, and even buy something (please?). http://itsmecheri.etsy.com
I am a member of the Etsy Texas Crafters (ETC) and am the ETC Mini-Team Coordinator for the state of Texas. I have made many "online" friends and enjoy "working" for the first time in a long time! I do fit all the stay at home housewife stuff--laundry, cleaning, cooking, appointments & such--into my day but I do make time to create everyday! My health is doing good. I was reminded, rather quickly I might add, that I was allergic to Texas (very heavy sigh). That was a nice part about Wisconsin--everything froze and I didn't have allergy troubles. Anyway, I was allergy tested and it was confirmed--I am allergic to Texas! I take two shots every week and finally after 6 weeks, the reaction to the shots, are tapering off. It is working and I am feeling better!

We have an addition to our family since moving home. An American Foxhound named Amelia!
Why? I don't know! We got her in August--Roy said she was my birthday present--which is okay with me! We rescued her from the local animal shelter. Her family was being deployed to Iraq. She spent three weeks in the shelter then we came along to take her home! She is VERY energetic and is bigger than any dog we have ever had. She has the SWEETEST disposition and gets along with everyone! At this writing she is 15 months old and still very much a puppy! Bailey has accepted her fairly well but she does look at me every once in a while with that "Big Sister" look of "Mom, she is such a Brat!" And Amelia can be a brat of a little sister!

Bailey still rules the roost and Amelia knows it! Bailey is doing well health-wise. We did have a scare at Christmas but that is over now. Cushing's Disease is just taking it toll on her and she is slowing down. But the good days are much more prevalent than bad days. She is still bright-eyed, interested in life, and active so we are very happy!

Eric and Lenise are doing GREAT! And they are moving to TEXAS in MAY!!!!! Eric is going to be a Basic Military Instructor at Lackland AFB in San Antonio - (a "Sargent Carter" but in the Air Force). He's gona shape-up those new recruits! Roy and I are beside ourselves with excitement!!!! Lenise is hoping to transfer to a Starbucks in San Antonio. She is an Asst. Manager now. She has spoken with several locations and they are interested. They are currently busy with all the stuff moving entails. Please pray for them so they don't become overwhelmed. Their biggest need is a place to live so please remember them in your prayers.

Well, enough for now!!!!!

From Old Blog

2009-02-03T09:25:00.001-06:00

Friday, June 27, 2008

Settling in!

It is funny how things just fall in place, isn't it! Roy has settled into his job rather well. He deals with A LOT of issues everyday and he still needs to hire more nurses, but he really is happy! He seems so settled. Now, if the pain he suffers would only subside, all would be most well!!!! We had a really good appointment with our doctor yesterday and Dr. Jesse gave Roy a new medication that helps and he is sending Roy to PT for a TENS unit, which is very effective for the kind of nerve pain Roy suffers. We are hopeful!

We have really enjoyed re-connecting with our family and our friends! We are truly wealthy and are blessed with many rich relationships--family and friends. We are BLESSED!

I have decided to open a web store on Etsy.com. Etsy is a marketplace of only handmade items. I am currently working on items to list and plan to "open" the store this weekend. (Gotta buy batteries for the camera so I can take the pictures for the website--Roy is going to help with the photos this weekend) I guess I can really begin meaning it when I say I am an artist--a "STARVING" artist!!!! I am laughing out loud!!!!! I am really enjoying "creating". It has taken me a while to find a place to create (I am so missing my basement studio that I had in Wisconsin.) And I have been very frustrated about it! Kay, my "best-est buddy", suggested I take the guest room closet & a folding table and "set up shop." What a great idea! I think I have spent too much time there because any time I walked down the hall, Bailey goes with me and stands in the guest room doorway! (She is my constant companion where ever I go in the house.) I tell her "No, it is not time to create right now!" and she looks rather perplexed about it!!! More info to follow on my store!!!!

Update on our dear friend Keith and his fight with cancer--It has been 9 1/2 months since the diagnosis and he is actually doing very well! Praise the Lord!!! The docs have started him on a new cancer med that he takes daily and things have settled down and no growth is found. Cancer research has progressed by leaps and bounds and remarkable things are being reached everyday!!!!!

God IS good!

Well, I need to get to work and CREATE!!!!