Complete Overload!

I am in way over my head.  I started my blog last year, thinking that it would be a great way to grow my business.  Along the way, I found that I enjoyed reading other's blogs, participating in contests and giving away items. 

Unfortunately, none of that has translated into increased sales!  For every hour I spend on the computer, I am missing one hour of studio time.  Less studio time means that when I have a show, I don't have as many items to show and sell!

I'm not a very good multi-tasker.  I really take the "do one thing and do it well" thing way overboard! If I'm doing well at homeschooling the children, the bills don't get paid.  If I'm really being creative in the studio, no one has clean underwear.  If the house is clean, no school is done.  SIGH...

I realized that I was retreating to the computer, it had (has) become my refuge from the deluge of day-to-day stuff.  Sniff.  I know that I need to allow God to be my refuge, and I know that He is nearer and better than the internet.  So why is it so hard?  LOL

I also started a booth at an antique mall, which has not been as successful as I hoped, it hasn't even paid for itself yet.  I think that I am over-diversified!

So - all that to try to explain why I've been MIA, and why you probably won't hear a lot from me in the months to come.

HUGS

Camp Sol - Healing for the family heart

We've just returned from a wonderful weekend of restoration and healing at Camp Sol.

If you know of a family in the DFW-area that has lost a child and still has kids at home - please pass this to them!  Camp Sol has been an integral part of our family's healing process.  It is so rewarding to go now and help other families while remembering our son, Ian. 

It is nice to see how far we've come - from the first camp where I was angry at the other parents for being happy.  ("How DARE they laugh - they buried a child too.  I will never laugh again, and neither should they") And now, after our 4th year - to only needing the tissue box a few times and really enjoying ourselves and the getaway from everyday life!

I came back feeling refreshed and renewed!  There is emotional "drain" in sharing your story of loss and your grief journey, but my overwhelming essence is "I buried a child.  I survived it.  I am strong - bring it!  You can't kill me!"

Gavin (our "legacy child") enjoying the weekend

Calvin on ropes and Jordan on the rock wall

Gavin - appreciating the view!

Time for Hope

A vintage Elgin clock, painted green then discarded. ReDeemed! $38.00

-- Sent from my Palm Prē

Home and Garden Show

I've been a busy bee preparing for the first show of 2010!

I'm participating in Arts Alive, the Wichita Falls, TX Home and Garden show.  Last year's show drew 200,000 people!  I'm all set up and ready to sell it all - I don't want to bring anything home except cash!  LOL

Just thought I'd pop in and let you know what I was up to.  If I get a chance to wander tomorrow, I'll share pictures :)

Ceramic cross and Scrabble (R) pendants

I've been working hard in the studio getting ready for the Wichita Falls Home and Garden show this weekend!

-- Sent from my Palm Prē