Sunday, January 1, 2012

Happy New Year!






Hello,
Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year. Wishing you much success and happiness.

2011 was a very trying year for me medically. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Sjogrens Disease. I've dealt with chronic pain from my neck being fused from C2-T3. Over the last 9 years I had 6 cervical spine surgeries. I have 3 bulging discs in my lumbar spine. Along with that came depression that was very difficult to manage. I have been on long term medical disability since January 2008. I think the pain feeds the depression.

I have met some awesome friends through crafting. I love crafting on Skype with my out of town friends.

Crafting is the one thing that keeps me going. I long the challenge of trying new techniques. I love vintage and shabby chic the best. Tim Holtz is a close third. LOL

A couple of weeks ago I went to the Upcycle Exchange. The owner and I talked about her new consignment department. I took some of the books I've made to get some feedback. She likes them so much she agreed to let me consign them in her store. Needless to say I'm very excited. I was over the top to have someone think my work was professional enough to sell. My friend Dianna got me started on making books. I love making books now. I can spend hours looking at You Tube videos. Watching You Tube videos is addictive. LOL

I've had an Etsy store for a long time. Haven't done much with it until now. I'm going to be posting a book I made today. The Etsy link on my blog will take you to my store. Please leave me a comment and let me know what you think. I think I've found my niche with making books.

Thanks so much.
Laurie

4 comments:

  1. Keep your head up Laurie! You're crafty friends are here for ya! 2012 will be a better year!
    ~Monica

    ReplyDelete
  2. Laurie,
    I soooo know about the depression not the pain but can identify. Hope things are looking up for you in 2012. I know I will be making some much needed change in my life this new year.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I was touched by your post. I have known the pain of a bulging disc, but I feel like such a wimp after reading about your pain. I also can relate to the depression. I know one thing is for sure, God is able to heal and do the impossible no matter what we feel. I will keep you in my prayers. I do love your work and I pray that the Lord will continue to bless your hands and your life. Take Care, xoxo, Carmen

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love this Laurie!!! See you shouldn't have any problem with this months SSSS project... Oh BTW I am a new follower.. Great blog my friend! Mine is Toriscraftycreations.blogspot.com but I haven't posted anything in a while.. Will catch up as soon as things settle down here, it's pretty crazy with mom and all.

    TTUS xoxo
    Tori

    ReplyDelete