Tuesday, April 29, 2008

...no chair... meet DENIAL


I read a blog awhile ago that really made me think. I can't remember how I got there or I would give proper credit.

The jest of it was that we allow people to hurt us, we give them permission by continually allowing them into our lives with hurtful statements or actions.

Hawthorne said this "Words – so innocent and powerless as they are, as standing in a dictionary, how potent for good and evil they become, in the hands of one who knows how to combine them!"

Holmes said this "A word is not a crystal, transparent and unchanged; it is the skin of a living thought, and may vary greatly in color and content according to the circumstances and the time in which it is used."

These last few weeks I have been going thru a trial with someone significant in my life, its taken me deep into a place I haven't been of sadness and grief and then I made a decision, a weird one really.... I was suddenly faced with a choice... to allow the hurt to continue to want to pull the covers over my head everyday or to make a decision. You see I was introduced to "DENIAL"

"Denial is the psychological process by which human beings protect themselves from things which threaten them by blocking knowledge of those things from their awareness. It is a defense which distorts reality; it keeps us from feeling the pain and uncomfortable truth about things we do not want to face. If we cannot feel or see the consequences of our actions, then everything is fine and we can continue to live without making any changes. "

It came down to survival or deep depression, if you know me at all I would not make a fun depressed person. It would be like wearing the wrong size shoes all the time and wondering why people looked at you so funny.

In the meantime I am liking Denial, its working great. What isn't working is when the hurtful person reappears suddenly and catches me with my defenses up on the shelf and I cry. I don't like to cry.


If I just will remember this statement.....

"I will not set a chair for you at my table"

Then I have the power to choose and accept the consequences thereof...

Sunday, April 27, 2008

KIT!

Monday nite will be our monthly kit club. Its going to special. I think because we had to postpone it, we took extra time to make this one ROCK!

Wednesday nite a group of girls will be comin to work on projects in case you want to join us

Saturday is our CREATIVE DAY! Its going to be full of inspiration and creativity!

Saturday, April 26, 2008

One Heart One Mind





One of our favorite companies at the store is One Heart One Mind

They have really versatile papers for cardmaking and layouts. Here is a sampling of items made by their design team, check out their gallenry! You will be amazed what you can make with just one sheet of paper.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Checking on my word of the year H O P E





I thought it was time to be reminded of my word of the year. When I choose this word I really had no idea that I would need its reminder so often. This has been a crazy few months with lots of twists and turns. I have found some scripture that help describe my word and some images too.


Psalm 31:24 Be brave. Be strong. Don't give up. Expect God to get here soon.

Psalm 33:18 Watch this: God's eye is on those who respect him, the ones who are looking for his love. He's ready to come to their rescue in bad times; in lean times he keeps body and soul together.

Psalm 119:114 You're my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your Word to renew me. Get out of my life, evildoers, so I can keep my God's commands. Take my side as you promised; I'll live then for sure. Don't disappoint all my grand hopes. Stick with me and I'll be all right; I'll give total allegiance to your definitions of life

Romans 5:5 There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!

Isaiah 40:31 Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening?God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out.He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts.For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall.But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles,They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.


My life is complicated. Some of you have been with us this last year and have read about Mike and his battles with depression, and mom and her constant battle with pain. Those are just a slice of the fun pie called "my life" I have the chance each day to work for the government and make the difference the lives of hundreds of children, I thought it would be a breeze to then work in the store, but what I have learned is that many things suffer from a full schedule. For instance, I have dust bunnies, and piles of laundry but that doesn't top making an album last nite with Dana and Bren, I may not get to attend every function that I am invited but I do have time to get creative. My car isn't always washed or full of gas but I document a memory here and there for generations to come.

This last month threw me some serious curve balls, our son moved out, he is just 15 and got into some trouble. (this is a whole 'nother post) Savan is puking again, we don't know why but its been 4 straight days, Mike is going to see his mom (this is a whole 'another post) but hey it didn't snow today.

See H O P E in its finest creeps into my life. Its a gentle reminder there I have a Savior who is involved in my life and cares, that if I hold onto the HOPE of Jesus I will make it. I may feel strung out and exhausted at times but I still have H O P E.

I just thought today was a good day to remember who I am, where I came from and where I am going. (I know some of you don't necessarily believe the same as I but we can all have HOPE)

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

A new Magazine!


I love when you make a new friend in an unexpected place and God's goodness overflows. I had the chance to make a friend this year, Stephanie, she is an amazing, real girl from So. Cal who is honest, funny, energetic and seeks the heart of Jesus with her whole being. I love her outlook on life and genuine warm heart for friends and family. She is one I could meet up in the driveway while the kids played after schhol and talk about all the good things that God is doing in our lives. I am so excited for her and a project she's been pouring her heart into!

You can find this beauty May 15th at JoAnn's, Barnes & Noble and some other places. BUY IT~

I am thankful....

I know its not Monday but I thought I would still do my Being Thankful Blog... I think its good to be thankful in the little
* James was going to Costco today and picked up a few things I was really needing, and delivered it to my store.WOW, what a blessing!
*My friend April is pregnant and they heard the heartbeat. AWESOME
*The sun was shining today and it didn't snow like yesterday
*My friend Kristina is beginning a new adventure making custom invitations. I love when people take a leap of faith
*There was bunco last nite in the store, it was great to hear the chatter of girls and the occasional "BUNCO!"
*This week is the fair, I remember as a kid preparing our animals to show and sale, I love the smell of fresh shavings in the show ring.
*Savan is sick, she's been pukie since yesterday but she still smiles and tells funny stories
*Last week there were quite a few birthdays in my world, Candy at work, Erica in Cali, (love ya babe) and Brenda my pal. I get to go to dinner w/Bren tomorrow nite
*Jean had surgery on Friday and got out of the hospital today and is on the mend
*Lisa L asked if she could move the Creative Escape on the 3rd to the store. Its so fun planning such amazing events with kind and great ladies from the Pomeroy Community Center

Are you making a Thankful list?

Monday, April 21, 2008

FANCYPANTS



Have you seen the new Fancypants line we have in the store? It is flying off the shelves!
The first picture is darling new rub-ons! and the 2nd is transparencies! You have to hurrt

Women of Faith

If you have not had a chance to enjoy a slumber party with 10,000 closest girlfriends you need to attend a Women of Faith and experience it. It isn't as scary as it sounds, in fact there is nothing like laughing in an arena full of amazing women, or worshipping to Awesome God sang acapella. Thursday nite Traci, Mom and I took off for Spokane. We power shopped the Northtown mall and finally checked into the Davenport at 10pm. We ate some fun appetizers in the Safari lounge and fell into bed around midnite.

Friday morning I took the Davenport town car (woohoo) to the arena to begin my volunteer time for Women of Faith. I had the opportunity to spend the day with Jan S, and Anita R. Two amazing women, they made me laugh and they made me cry. If you have not heard Anita Renfroe you have to see her on YouTube. She is a scream! Coupled with Patsi Clarimont the pre conference was amazing. We spent the day understanding emotions and how they shape our perspective. As always the Women of Faith worship team was rockin' and helped open each session.

That evening, the real conference began, Patsi Clarimont, Sheila Walsh and Aeyshia Woods were on that nite. I was on charge of all the hostesses for the conference. That meant that I needed to ensure everyone was doing their job and on time. A new addition to the event was security. We had them wherever we went. It was really interesting. I have to say that Sheila Walsh really shared her heart about losing her dad as a young child. It was amazing, she also shared how she had been through some tough times and God really stood by her. She has a new book out and I am hoping to get my hands on it.

As always each session was filled with tons of laughter! We fell into our hotel at midnite again and I was spent! I could hardly form words, poor Traci I think she was hoping for some girl talk and I was fast asleep. Saturday morning mom and I took the town car again to the arean and waited for the speakers to arrive. There were book signings, and sound checks, then the sessions began, there was a drama from Alison Allen, and talks from Sandi Patti, Marilyn Meberg, and Luci Swindoll. Nicole C. Mullen gave an amazing concert. There was a funny Q&A time and awesome worship.

It was a great experience. I had the chance to catch up w/Andrea M. its amazing we live in the same town and yet can't find time to see each other, she is selling her home and moving all while being a devoted wife and mother to 4 (count 'em) kids. Someday we will get together again, its not for lack of trying on both our parts. I also got to see Cheri D and Kerry S. What great women!!

I was glad to fall into my own bed Saturday evening late. I do love going and serving but I was exhausted. Sunday was a day I didn't even want to get dressed. I could have stayed in my pj's all nite but instead I went to Savan's dance performance. WOW. Danceworks was amazing! I loved it! I actually understood it. It was based on a Billy Joel song and it was GREAT. It is always fun to see Savan dance and for her to enjoy it!!

Sunday nite I hung with Mike and played a few video games. It was nice. I am glad I get to have all these experiences. Its not often you are in such great company and around such amazing women. Add WoF, the Davenport, and great friends, how can you go wrong?

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

The weekend



I am leaving for the weekend to attend Women of Faith in Spokane. Its an amazing event for women at the arena, the theme this year is Infinite GRACE. Best of all, I am helping out back stage with the speaker team. I also am going away with my mom and Traci S, there will be lots of people there that I know but my pj party will be with some amazing ladies in my life.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Being Thankful


Yesterday was the start of being Thankful for me. I got Mike's car all spivy clean, nothing like a shiny black car, filled it with gas and Savan and I took off to see the new boxer puppies at the Pickron Home. PSBOXERS, it was just what I needed after an exhausting week. How can you not love being licked by Braddock and Mandy, and cuddling with 6 week old puppies. I know this will sound corny but driving thru the freshly planted wheat fields is theraputic, the sun was shining there were good tunes on the CD player and great company.
Then we were off to ON, what a faithful friend, Old Navy always makes you feel good when you purchase a darling skirt, shorts and pants for Savan. I had to say a huge Thank you to her for working for the Queen during Spring Break.
Then today it rained.... but I can still be Thankful.
* Yes there was Diet coke this morning
* Some fun customers came in tonight while I was working! (Hi Miss Sara)
* Mom is feeling a bit better and worked all day
*Savannah has all her costumes ready for the Civic Theater this week
*some laundry got done this weekend (notice I did not say all, afterall there were puppies to meet)
*I got to hold baby Jaxon while he was in the store, he is just 10 days ol and precious. Aydann wasn't so sure I should be holding him though, but its rough being 2 and a princess
*Costco got in Salsa Cream cheese dip again, have you ever had this on a tortilla for dinner? Yum yum!
*My dad and hubby sent me flowers last week to cheer me up! 24 pink roses, they are still gorgeous on my desk at work. Thanks Mike and dad, luv ya!
* Jean called me just to say hi today and Brenda said she needed some "Kristi time" What amazing friends God has blessed me with.
*Just a few more days and I am off to Spokane for some fun at the Davenport and WoF.
What a week, I am ready for the weekend and its just Monday nite.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

CARD open house Sunday 1-3






We are forming a card club, come meet Lisa, make a card and get excited.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Love this new quote from Stacy Julian

So, the evidence that I have thus far lived an abundant life, and that I have a happy family, not a perfect family, but a happy family, already surrounds me in albums that my kids can access and enjoy. The ability to focus on the positive and to be the heart of my home and help my family recognize everything that’s good about life. And how important the relationships are with my family. More than getting my laundy done, that's my goal, and it's happening." -Stacy Julian- BPS

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Get your CROP on

Check out aunt jan's slide show to see pictures from the luau!
Friday nite 5-10 We are croppin' the nite away!
Its an Elton John nite in honor of all the concerts going on this weekend.
Its Mom's weekend at WSU as well, bring your mom, get a prize!

We have tons of new product, new Tap, Jazz and hip hop papers,
new stamps, a new stamping club and class, Tons of albums, xyron sticker makers are back in stock, more cans of flowers, the list goes on and on.

So, pack up your stuff and get your CROP on!

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

SO MUCH NEW PRODUCT

Heidi Swapp new PAPERS! (with tear off edges) zip dry! Thank GOD
American Crafts CORD Albums. yum yum
Darling clear stamp sets from EK Success
and of course another great line from Daisy Buckets!!!

I gotta admit... I love the UPS guy and his BIG BROWN Truck!


He brought up this week so much....

Monday, April 7, 2008

NEW STAMPS!


Isn't it fun to see new stamps, especially SPRING ones

GREAT IMPRESSIONS is back

I need to be Thankful

Its been one of those days.....
I think the first thing I need to do is Thank GOD.... otherwise I am going to go postal on someone.... (yes Jamie would have come up with some way funnier here but my funny bone is on strike this week)
- There was plenty of Diet coke today
- instead of working on my lunch I went out w/Jean and it was just what I neeed. Love you Jean the Queen
-We got in new stamps today from Great Impressions, how can one not love SPRING stamps?
-Savan helped again at the store 'cause mom is still sick, she is great. What would I do without her? -Love ya babe!
-Amanda had her baby, Mr. Jaxon arrived last week and they are healing at home, not without twists and turns but all good things come with a price, right?
-I have 6 people signed up for my beginning class tomorrow nite, that means that people are catching on that Scrapbooking is important work, its a high calling to record all the good things in our lives!
-I had a GREAT private party Saturday nite, Kerry O, Kim W, and Traci F made HOME Letters and had girl talk, thanks ladies for the therapy!
-Our luau rocked totally Don Ho style Friday nite. Dad cooked fab chicken and beef kabobs and Aurie made yummy salads, people loved their leis' and punch. I love having such energy in the store. 26 ladies makes this place all worth it!!!
-I have funny dogs to go crawling home too and a hubby who with limited coping skills still reached out and tried to comfort me this weekend in my time of sorrow, frustration and sadness.

How about you? Are you thankful or are you like me and need Jesus to come into your Boat and calm the sea? This rowing can be tiring when it just keeps raining and storming...

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Luau and the Queen

We're having a LUAU! Friday nite 5-11pm, Dinner, drinks and fun!

Well the Queen is still sick and I mean sick, she has caught a bug and I tell ya its holding on like Heather Mills on Paul McCartney's bank accounts. She has been MIA since Saturday. She tells me there is just not enough day time TV on to stay home any longer. I did make her a gift that I am realy excited about. I made her album for her to complete, its her top 10 things... it has childhood memories, most embarassing moments and more. I thought it would be fun to see what she would journal.
We are taking sign-up's for the retreat and yes its filling up. Surprise, Surprise!
We are also taking registrations for the Creative Escape on Saturday the 19th. What a great way to get away for the day and be Creative!


Wednesday, April 2, 2008

NEW FANCY PANTS and Penny Black

biggest board

critter stamp
frog stamp

We have a new line of Fancy Pants, one of many new lines coming.

We also rec'd a shipment of stamps from Penny Black



Tuesday, April 1, 2008

RETREAT sign ups



Finally April 1st has arrived....

We are taking sign-up's and deposits for the June retreat.

This is a no frills weekend at the Snake River Ren (just 20 mins from Asotin)
For $65.00 you can have table space, family style meals, great music, an abundance of tools and inspiration. Check in is Thursday 5pm and you check out is Sunday at 3pm.

A $15 non refundable deposit and a completed registration form is all you need.
(more info to come, but a few details to share, there are cabins with 8-10 people, a dorm for 20, and a huge lodge overlooking the snake river. Each living area has their own bathroom and showers. There are beds provided but no bedding, there is no alcohol or smoking on site, also no cell service but there is a local phone available for incoming and outgoing calls)