...In Good Times And Bad, In Sickness And In Health...

Sorry for my lack of posting for that past couple of months.  My personal life took a quick and crazy turn this summer.  I have debated whether to post here about something so personal, but now feel it could be a little therapeutic to write about.  I realize that I have made reference to my husband's health a couple of times but never went into many details on this blog.

When I started this blog my intention was to share ideas and thoughts on a variety of topics, but mostly along the creative lines. What I will write about may seem a bit "off topic" but it may explain how everyday life can change one's priorities.  And, I'm sure that many others have faced something similar.

Those that do know me personally, are aware of the issues that have faced our family since June of 2010. It was just a few days before the Memorial Day holiday (the official beginning of summer) that we found that "the greatest guy" I know was diagnosed with lung cancer and a brain tumor.  It's been a fight against a nasty unknown, that he has faced courageously and quietly.  As he continued this fight, it was early this June that he had to face an additional difficult time. He was admitted to the hospital June 27th, for what was supposed to be a easy procedure that began with complications from diverticulitis. What followed was days and weeks of surgeries, hospitalization, rehab therapy and more hospitalization.

As I sit here near his hospital bed, the month of August will soon be coming to an end. We are hoping and praying the the month of September will begin with him being at home and enjoying his favorite chair, sleeping in his own bed (without any interruptions), and enjoying any variety of his favorite foods prepared the way he likes.

This summer was a series of "ups & downs" that at times was difficult to understand and deal with. Moments like these we ask ourselves over and over "Why? Why? Why?"  I still don't know that answer to that!  What I do know is that in these moments, no matter how difficult, you find the strength to just keep going on when you know how special someone is to you.

As others began to hear of my husband's situation, the outpouring of prayers, good thoughts, support and love, for him has been so very welcoming and helpful.  He has touched many people in the 34 years of teaching, 40 years of marriage and 63 years of life.  Co-workers, former students, high school and collage classmates, neighbors (old & new), and many others (family and friends), who have sent messages and cards or have visited during this time, we are thankful for all you. You have helped us in more ways then you could know.

The other "loves & likes" in my life have had to be put on hold for some time now, though I plan to get back to spending time on all of them soon.  I have several other things I plan to share here in the near future ... please be patient with me as I get my everyday life back in order!  This special man has needed my time, my support and my love. If things were reversed - he would be doing the same for me.

Through all these weeks, I have watched this wonderful man deal with so much, and still have the determination, and muster the strength, to do what was asked and needed from him. You have taught us so much during this time!

August Designer Craft Connection - Favorite Technique

Once again I'm late to the party!  I apologize to my fellow bloggers for the delay.  Unfortunately, my everyday life continues to be taken up with dealing with my husbands health issues first.  This months topic was one I found fun I would love to share.  It's difficult to choose just one technique though.  Tough choice to make - mixed media, felting, stamping, crocheting or collage?

A quick look through my files and I want to share one technique that I find fun and easy.  Take any type of "box" and then use papers, fabrics or other found items or pieces of "this and that" to collage onto the surface.  Turn them into a keepsake box or a purse.

Take the time to hop through the blogs by using the "Designer Craft Connection" button that is just to the right of this post.  Leave a comment on Julie McGuffee's blog to tell her which technique you enjoyed the most, to win this collection of punches. 

             The winner will be announced on August 15th.