tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56970567516918939612024-03-05T10:49:55.604-08:00WHO AM I?Examining life with a chronic illness. How to be your best while feeling your worst. DIscovering who you are and why anyone should care. Living to the max....and loving yourself even when you're not who you thought you'd be.JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-23126578041551109262012-03-05T16:08:00.000-08:002012-03-05T16:08:47.768-08:00~Counting Blessings~So what is that saying...?? "We make plans and God laughs." It's kind of the story~of~my~life! I had so looked forward to five weeks in Florida. No sweater. No coat. No hat & gloves. First week, I was fighting some kind of bug with a fever. Weather was rather chilly (for Florida) so no great loss. Second week started to warm up. Don't now how else to build up to this so I'll just tell you, 'I fell & broke my foot.' Actually, not only that...but as I was going down, I managed to hit my eye (lid area) & ended up with a HUGE black & blue (and PURPLE) bruise. I really looked AWFUL! So I ended up in a half~calf cast on crutches non-weight bearing...soooo, you know what that means, right? NO pool. NO ocean. Oh My Goodness...it was a HUGE bummer, to say the least!! So, in my misery (that's being a little dramatic, I admit it)...I reflected on what happiness is all about. For ME, it's about being with all the people I love! It's about realizing that 'it could have been worse'...like, I could have done damage to my hip implant which could have required surgery. Thankfully, I didn't. Happiness is about purely being thankful for what I have rather than focusing on what I DON't have. So on that note, I would like to tell you a little bit about the guy with whom I share my life. He is my husband of 17-1/2 years and is an awesome father and grandfather. So to simplify matters, I'll tell you "TEN THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HIM":<br />
-----------------------------------------------<br />
1). He loves me.<br />
2). He doesn't ever panic, he thinks things out thoroughly.<br />
3). He takes care of business...& I mean ALL business that needs taking care of.<br />
4). He doesn't make a big deal out of anything...ever.<br />
5). He's organized.<br />
6). He's funny.<br />
7). He's loving & nurturing.<br />
8). He is super~protective.<br />
9). He's strong (like bull). :)<br />
10). He treats me like a princess.<br />
-----------------------------------------<br />
I'm a lucky, lucky girl. I don't know why I deserve such a good man, but I'm thankful every single day. And I love him completely. He holds my life in his hands & NEVER makes me feel like a burden, even when I am one. So I just wanted everyone to know how important he is to me and why I love him more than anything in the world!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJDhymz7oAZ31OgPiSI2d5aIbtS_ukmF10aa0WopXiTQpk_foWanaK-IYS0wVO34EDlm4jLxdRI3wxz03YcNn9jRGEhCVjDnzmX9OkOxpo7OCelcjPGO8PhQoMt7roZ0YXojzodrIqpc/s1600/DSCN2092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJDhymz7oAZ31OgPiSI2d5aIbtS_ukmF10aa0WopXiTQpk_foWanaK-IYS0wVO34EDlm4jLxdRI3wxz03YcNn9jRGEhCVjDnzmX9OkOxpo7OCelcjPGO8PhQoMt7roZ0YXojzodrIqpc/s320/DSCN2092.JPG" /></a></div>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-76902566740317936692012-01-10T18:08:00.000-08:002012-01-10T18:08:36.424-08:00~ Happy, Happy New Year ~I don't really make resolutions anymore. Oh yeah, I used to. Stop smoking, lose weight, be a better person. Well, the good news is I don't smoke anymore. Do I need to lose weight? Heck, yeah--but it's a constant struggle/challenge & I try not to wait for each new year to make the commitment. I eat healthy because it makes me feel better. And somehow, the weight seems to come off. SLOWLY, but at least it's going in the right direction! And I like to think that I'm a *good person* ... can I be a BETTER one? Of course, we all can. So again, I don't wait for the 'New Year' to make the commitment to improve on who I am. I'm always a work-in-progress and I ALWAYS strive to do the 'right' thing. I'll never stop doing so. So, on that note...I bid you all a very Happy & Healthy 2012! Be the best you can be. Always.<br />
<br />
So speaking of a "work-in-progress", Etsy has been a real test of determination & stick-to-it-iveness! I've learned so many things over the past year...one of which is the fact that I REALLY didn't know what I was doing when I got started! I'm one of those 'jump-right-in' kind of people...not one who reads the instructions before jumping in. (THAT's my husband's job!) I can't help it, it's my style. That said, I feel I've come a LONG way...and I'm proud of the outcome. I'm pleased with my sales...although I hope to at least double, maybe even TRIPLE my sales from 2011. That would totally make my day!<br />
<br />
Part of being an Etsy seller is getting to know OTHER Etsy sellers. I like to peek into other shops and see what people are into. What kinds of items are out there? How do the shop owners photograph their items? What catches my eye? (OR what doesn't?) Well, one shop that caught my eye is called "The Dorothy Days", where both vintage and handmade finds are showcased. My favorite items in the shop are the beautiful porcelain tea cups & saucers, which are sold as sets...some even in trios. I absolutely LOVE them! I've been fortunate enough to have "inherited" several from my husband grandparents, so I've always appreciated the vintage style...the graceful patterns...and the delicate bone china. Here are some examples:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGULSEUdOWQ2C6swg0kNDPTjlzGDz2WAT0ABrIFvskGD_l42YiFXBI6bUsMWy1MlbkxQbfe1-cK4BaE0naAoZGk3argCmm52Z9bOB_4X7n8mcZW_bdSMRvaujtFy3Su-tH5LWccJjHG4/s1600/il_570xN.272698948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGULSEUdOWQ2C6swg0kNDPTjlzGDz2WAT0ABrIFvskGD_l42YiFXBI6bUsMWy1MlbkxQbfe1-cK4BaE0naAoZGk3argCmm52Z9bOB_4X7n8mcZW_bdSMRvaujtFy3Su-tH5LWccJjHG4/s320/il_570xN.272698948.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUyDgIWD_BTXLukEOjfwJIfYffBbJ2nLDnmq0JpmHLQs6C91lSxEyYD3OkD5iT73QUYf5NBVkcSt95sj6GUHNW26gXQ92DNI-prkTdR8ooJQroNfGpDojVNfqfPRahMpm5cGR6Y_w38Q/s1600/il_fullxfull.272731744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUyDgIWD_BTXLukEOjfwJIfYffBbJ2nLDnmq0JpmHLQs6C91lSxEyYD3OkD5iT73QUYf5NBVkcSt95sj6GUHNW26gXQ92DNI-prkTdR8ooJQroNfGpDojVNfqfPRahMpm5cGR6Y_w38Q/s320/il_fullxfull.272731744.jpg" /></a></div><br />
There are also charming little handmade post earrings with designs like owls, birds and flowers...again with a sweet, vintage feel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQS7GwVnGRn_gs1N6lUARzrHxNUrwX2FWZS68rxspdMZwc5q3h4l6fsiF2YLMa8fJgwkYgdIrddChp3fp1fkV6QPYHH4xE8cpEUZhkZEEw2l3ZBWmpu_50stYIolgbFFv6wq_6qAFhqg/s1600/il_170x135.297780005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQS7GwVnGRn_gs1N6lUARzrHxNUrwX2FWZS68rxspdMZwc5q3h4l6fsiF2YLMa8fJgwkYgdIrddChp3fp1fkV6QPYHH4xE8cpEUZhkZEEw2l3ZBWmpu_50stYIolgbFFv6wq_6qAFhqg/s320/il_170x135.297780005.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33RIXyDSaPmPoacMaIi9lvaaevUTGY7lYfCpvcXcSXxoXCYt28ojqgFzHR0BV6ndRYBRY7W6VnnIBxwJBUzAXR8frJx7HUl7KNH56YADkCisQ5MEetU6lNghz2f2hOi26ADt3JxLkA84/s1600/il_170x135.298324135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33RIXyDSaPmPoacMaIi9lvaaevUTGY7lYfCpvcXcSXxoXCYt28ojqgFzHR0BV6ndRYBRY7W6VnnIBxwJBUzAXR8frJx7HUl7KNH56YADkCisQ5MEetU6lNghz2f2hOi26ADt3JxLkA84/s320/il_170x135.298324135.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I hope you'll visit "The Dorothy Days" (www.thedorothydays.etsy.com) as well as other beautiful shops on Etsy. One of the things that makes handmade as special as it is...is that you get to know the seller (or the creator) behind the product. SO much nicer than a 'big-box store' with no knowledge of WHO is the face behind the item. It leaves me cold and empty. But Etsy sellers are there for you to experience. I can't think of anything cozier!!JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-31800596731567840462011-12-20T11:42:00.000-08:002011-12-20T11:52:30.698-08:00Happy Hanukkah & Merry Christmas to ALL!!Just a few more days to shop, wrap & be ready for the holidays! It doesn't feel like holiday time, for some reason. Maybe it's the weather? Not quite cold enough. Missing some 'white, fluffy stuff', I think. I like a good snowstorm. You know, the kind where everyone is home and you've got a nice fire going in the fireplace. And after a couple of those...I'm ready to go to Florida!! Anyway, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of you the happiest, healthiest holidays with time spent with your loved ones! After all, THAT's what the holidays are all about...at least for me. Holiday time can also be stressful for some. Health issues...or loss of loved ones...can really bring you down during the holidays. I miss my Dad more than words can say...and I feel for those who are grieving. I also struggle with chronic pain issues & lack of energy due to Lupus...as I look at the list of what I still have NOT done. But I try to dwell on the positive, not the negative. I've accomplished a lot, considering. I guess it could always be worse! So I do what I can...and somehow in the end, I manage to pull it all together!<br />
<br />
It was a good year for Jujubeads. Etsy started to pick up, craft shows proved to be worthwhile & the Jujubeads Holiday Party/Trunk Show was a success! So I've decided to put all of my rings on sale...25% off until the end of the year. I hope you'll check them at out (while supplies last) at www.etsy.com/shop/jujubeader. <br />
<br />
Please stay safe & have a wonderful holiday season...and a very Happy New Year to All!!<br />
XXOO,<br />
Jujubeader:)JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-23728496755045842082011-11-20T17:42:00.000-08:002011-11-20T17:42:54.077-08:00Quick FYI<i><b></b></i>Well, my favorite holiday is quickly approaching. Yes, our day of *thanks*. I have so much to be thankful for. Even during the worst times, it's my blessings that I try to focus on...and they lift me up and out of whatever 'funk' I may be experiencing! <br />
<br />
So I'm back from a recent trip to Puerto Rico with my hubby and some friends. I'm revived and refreshed and I'm excited about some new pieces I've created. I have decided to run a special sale between now and one week from tomorrow--Cyber Monday (November 28th for those who do not keep track!) Just enter coupon code: THANKS20 and you will receive 20% off your order! How great is that!?!? <br />
<br />
I'm wishing ALL of you and wonderful, blessed Thanksgiving. May you enjoy the holiday with family and friends...and be healthy & safe! Oh! And speaking of "friends and family", please feel free to share this coupon code with whomever you'd like!<br />
<br />
XXOO, Juju:)JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-68369734805894246282011-11-06T17:52:00.000-08:002011-11-30T10:39:58.449-08:00JUJU'S FAVORITE THINGS :)We may not have Oprah's Favorite Things anymore...but that doesn't mean we ourselves don't have our own favorite things!! So I've decided to form a list of MY Favorite Things & I'm searching through Etsy for all of my items. There are plenty of things to choose from and since Etsy doesn't advertise for us, I've decided that we should advertise for one another!! So sit back and enjoy these beauties that I have collected for you to peruse & admire!!<br />
---------------------------------------------------<br />
1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNhrPOhFcFmihhYonApgZ4fD-3XOCnTV4MffwarYK3wqRbeOOl0Gw_C_jjC_FNafkW-ppSK-opHUM26GuJhL3KDie8pYkucOfYip159c0o2FIC6GBavzKHwwCLfNRjqdHuNYHt7ipISE/s1600/il_170x135.258268587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNhrPOhFcFmihhYonApgZ4fD-3XOCnTV4MffwarYK3wqRbeOOl0Gw_C_jjC_FNafkW-ppSK-opHUM26GuJhL3KDie8pYkucOfYip159c0o2FIC6GBavzKHwwCLfNRjqdHuNYHt7ipISE/s320/il_170x135.258268587.jpg" /></a></div>I absolutely LOVE these fingerless gloves. I love so many things in this shop (www.etsy.com/shop/toilandtrouble) and highly recommend that you check it out.<br />
<br />
2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJfuW2K3H3_nkyqA_T5q5dp3arlLhcrhfYwWo6604WaeOxSevzs4ujIaMT-6M22sXoqa463FjQLT9SDl2mNsvzMKygMuEykOJWwqCIF10RO1HTgpTjWuFuyiavUCJOwiLyEljSIpBcD4/s1600/il_170x135.191080898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJfuW2K3H3_nkyqA_T5q5dp3arlLhcrhfYwWo6604WaeOxSevzs4ujIaMT-6M22sXoqa463FjQLT9SDl2mNsvzMKygMuEykOJWwqCIF10RO1HTgpTjWuFuyiavUCJOwiLyEljSIpBcD4/s320/il_170x135.191080898.jpg" /></a></div>How beautiful is this bag? It reminds me of one I owned circa 1976. I love the fringe detail. I'm not in the market for a new bag right now but maybe you are? Please note that the bag ships from Uruguay, so keep that in mind if you need it in time for the holidays.(www.etsy.com/shop/SABRINATACH)<br />
<br />
3)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqs395tVNy_NQw-zPdcRfMXkht2gjbDlT80H4YJ_6N6OT_c7R-exoekXFOfT0o4sDCFcb-4KUHKQOqgy_p0-f949Pp0qbszXR9ivpN6uXa4Swzs_MbXTdCCzj2rXrwjW796dD_ZpDYno/s1600/il_170x135.221977325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqs395tVNy_NQw-zPdcRfMXkht2gjbDlT80H4YJ_6N6OT_c7R-exoekXFOfT0o4sDCFcb-4KUHKQOqgy_p0-f949Pp0qbszXR9ivpN6uXa4Swzs_MbXTdCCzj2rXrwjW796dD_ZpDYno/s320/il_170x135.221977325.jpg" /></a></div>This is another shop I am completely in love with. Her attention to detail and eye for color is what makes you wanna look twice (and back again & again). Beautiful stuff! (www.etsy.com/shop/StoneStreetStudio)<br />
<br />
4)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYt7OgZBhLV35dyXDKsPLUU_N4ocLeuAJ_81ghokR0fcOEAV07WVQuTYGJ1Kk6BegjYRJdMu5wwT33hEbr4OLiqKIICyOyA4gNyNwDmYCuhZG8jLVVMqxIi2FV4v6wd4OectCO0YAhyTY/s1600/il_170x135.222365056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYt7OgZBhLV35dyXDKsPLUU_N4ocLeuAJ_81ghokR0fcOEAV07WVQuTYGJ1Kk6BegjYRJdMu5wwT33hEbr4OLiqKIICyOyA4gNyNwDmYCuhZG8jLVVMqxIi2FV4v6wd4OectCO0YAhyTY/s320/il_170x135.222365056.jpg" /></a></div>I liked this so much I bought it for my Granddaughter! I love the colors & the complimentary patterns. Maybe you have a little girl on your Christmas/Hanukkah list? It's available in 18 months up to 4T. (www.etsy.com/shop/nezzyduran)<br />
<br />
5)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTQ7TYMSIy-GBDEO0h9SVxIdlweYeHQhrvJ6FLe9rYd5Qd2eoed8jB66ziW_iEmLuwp7ELX_8lwORRotIUd-QWSXTXqA1C9b4uXzt-fbqHIqYLYqH1HEgE0iSjVV9jzekQ-OpARTJ_Kk/s1600/il_170x135.237551365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTQ7TYMSIy-GBDEO0h9SVxIdlweYeHQhrvJ6FLe9rYd5Qd2eoed8jB66ziW_iEmLuwp7ELX_8lwORRotIUd-QWSXTXqA1C9b4uXzt-fbqHIqYLYqH1HEgE0iSjVV9jzekQ-OpARTJ_Kk/s320/il_170x135.237551365.jpg" /></a></div>I'm realizing as I look over all of my favorites that I REALLY like color. This dress is a perfect example of what attracts me. This is SO beautiful. I'm including it on my list even though I don't think it's for me but I love it and I thought you should have a look. It's expensive, but actually being a knitter/crocheter...I know how much work goes into something like this. So for what it is, it is WORTH it. Please note, it ships from Australia. (www.etsy.com/shop/subrosa123)<br />
<br />
6)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v4p7UWgAsTgqQfD2oEtyQC-D0zA59hmGqGQqWvSHA6zvjmTe2lFQUHEzB1OrPJDJCE0iVZZaGxTNQqJH4QciyXCbMCdQpfuhAwraJdzpZYwlcjO9uXLzLO1n7tuW2s45TAhw-N3RA5A/s1600/il_170x135.263678688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v4p7UWgAsTgqQfD2oEtyQC-D0zA59hmGqGQqWvSHA6zvjmTe2lFQUHEzB1OrPJDJCE0iVZZaGxTNQqJH4QciyXCbMCdQpfuhAwraJdzpZYwlcjO9uXLzLO1n7tuW2s45TAhw-N3RA5A/s320/il_170x135.263678688.jpg" /></a></div>Sweet & simple "shabby chic" sconce. You can put fresh or dried flowers in it for that special touch! Great gift. (www.etsy.com/shop/OldNewAgain)<br />
<br />
7)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_IxBt4nK21x3KStX7avLHD1jdN3E-W_6PZ_M3tdQoYyvztJEvfy9pP5nui7vUAnqLztgcKKKr6mLRoou34jmhZId3tuji9b5qFIikbeSVD9R-7tnZnWmfy27lWgPMToQ1nn5_nOOGK8/s1600/il_170x135.239694617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_IxBt4nK21x3KStX7avLHD1jdN3E-W_6PZ_M3tdQoYyvztJEvfy9pP5nui7vUAnqLztgcKKKr6mLRoou34jmhZId3tuji9b5qFIikbeSVD9R-7tnZnWmfy27lWgPMToQ1nn5_nOOGK8/s320/il_170x135.239694617.jpg" /></a></div>I may just have to buy these for myself. I admire them on a regular basis, as I do ALL of the items in this shop. Her work is fabulous...designs are different and feminine and eye-catching. This shop is in Poland so you need to order early to receive in time for the holidays. (www.etsy.com/shop/hypericumfragile)<br />
<br />
8)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqi1vILFCtFaJfvUPWJ3h_V-z0xFQi-LLQRDsGLGT2MczM2TXwb-S2JTQHgTLlH0ux9znHpbuyI6qjOALMKot8k0ypbeCBsNB3GkzsOPlYPqtplBihfAUwXxmhHWSWRStB367NUoyLkWk/s1600/il_170x135.283582957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="135" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqi1vILFCtFaJfvUPWJ3h_V-z0xFQi-LLQRDsGLGT2MczM2TXwb-S2JTQHgTLlH0ux9znHpbuyI6qjOALMKot8k0ypbeCBsNB3GkzsOPlYPqtplBihfAUwXxmhHWSWRStB367NUoyLkWk/s320/il_170x135.283582957.jpg" /></a></div>Classic RayBans ... who doesn't love them? I think they look good on just about everyone. And these babies are ON SALE! They won't last long though so check 'em out if you're interested. (www.etsy.com/shop/OnceUponAGem)<br />
<br />
9)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYly8Bgm4oBVb9ex45u0YM8rz7cAZKEcYxJcLgwGRVf9FkFW7jaPjih1t951AUudxL89e8FfVEaSqbfsxf0GaCHb08aC5XhA5Xr9W_gEAaA0R03VEYN1hE7S_uoNZuX9HdZ1TLrZAiIqs/s1600/il_570xN.274777141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYly8Bgm4oBVb9ex45u0YM8rz7cAZKEcYxJcLgwGRVf9FkFW7jaPjih1t951AUudxL89e8FfVEaSqbfsxf0GaCHb08aC5XhA5Xr9W_gEAaA0R03VEYN1hE7S_uoNZuX9HdZ1TLrZAiIqs/s320/il_570xN.274777141.jpg" /></a></div>Kris Donegan makes beautiful signs, cards, cupcake toppers. Her work is immaculate and clean ... I know because I purchased a 'nursery sign' from her and it's just lovely!! (www.etsy.com/shop/KDragonfly)<br />
<br />
10)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXJa4r5eTreTSKbPh58G3uOYxJkqtt-XWKspx9nmkZBCg8Z29khZnNq322EuWP0AjueMUoXpkVKhJnmhh9NgewH_Tj8NM-XN0_Zkmi_OJB8JJddKetReHkLBe-zVXGsxQY-Xf_o7q0Lg/s1600/il_570xN.215411925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="214" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXJa4r5eTreTSKbPh58G3uOYxJkqtt-XWKspx9nmkZBCg8Z29khZnNq322EuWP0AjueMUoXpkVKhJnmhh9NgewH_Tj8NM-XN0_Zkmi_OJB8JJddKetReHkLBe-zVXGsxQY-Xf_o7q0Lg/s320/il_570xN.215411925.jpg" /></a></div>My mouth is watering just thinking about this delectable, SCRUMPTIOUS goody! This is a great item to have if you have a last minute invitation or just need a small gift for any reason at all. It can be an add-on to another gift. Hey, you need no reason at all other than THIS STUFF is DELICIOUS!! (www.etsy.com/shop/stgnantucket)<br />
<br />
----------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
So I hope you've enjoyed 'window shopping' through my list of Juju's Favorite Things! I am starting my holiday shopping TODAY. Perhaps some of you have already started and some of you are 'last-minute shoppers'...whatever you are, give Etsy.com a try & spread the word!! Although I am a self-confessed shopper and frequent the malls & 'bigger' stores, this year I am vowing to buy my majority of gifts through Etsy. I've had enough of big-box stores and malls and crowds and mass-produced 'crap'. I'm done with it. I will sink into my comfy chair and click away as I glide through my list with ease. Cheers!! :)JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-58729360562185463242011-08-17T12:08:00.000-07:002011-08-17T12:08:30.552-07:00CORRECTIONSorry folks, but I didn't realize that I'm unable to combine a '% off' discount and a 'free shipping' discount ... SOOOO, here's what I'm gonna do! I will give a straight 20% off ... again for ONE DAY ONLY, 8/19. THIS coupon code is: bday20 <br />
HAPPY SHOPPING!! :)JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-18019043121530870492011-08-17T12:03:00.000-07:002011-08-17T12:03:59.830-07:00Two days til B-day :)SO in two days, I will celebrate the fact that I've been on this earth for FIFTY~ONE YEARS. Honestly, I can hardly believe it. I mean, even though I usually feel like I'm about 75...in my head, I'm still around 30~something. It's weird. I guess it's a GOOD thing...to maintain a 'little bit' of immaturity, lol. ANYWAY, I've decided to run a big one~day sale on the occasion of my birthday. EVERYthing in my shop is 10% off PLUS free shipping, but ONLY for ONE DAY, August 19th. WOW. Have I lost my mind? I think not. So start shopping and scope out what you think you might be interested in ... and then GRAB it while you can. ONE DAY ONLY. Sorry, no exceptions. How do you like THEM apples?!? *coupon code: JUJUBDAY10off (only valid 8/19)JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-30193106040448131372011-08-17T11:50:00.000-07:002011-08-17T11:50:12.179-07:00**it hit the fanWell, I've had better days, my friends. After our wonderful trip to Asheville, spending such lovely days with our family, it was bound to happen. I'm down for the count. It's so frustrating to always 'pay the price', but like I've said before, I make my choices. I wouldn't have missed this trip for anything in the world. Even though I said g'night earlier than I would have liked many nights, I'm still suffering the effects of TOO MUCH. I haven't been able to get back to my jewelry-making which is one of the most frustrating aspects for me. My body doesn't cooperate with my brain! I have so many great ideas and can't wait to get started. But somehow, I can't seem to get myself 'vertical' just yet. Maybe tomorrow. Meanwhile, I've had many, many more Facebook fans since we instituted our raffle to win my Swarovski pearl earrings. I can't wait to see WHO will be the winner! I think we'll figure it out by tomorrow...so stay tuned! And now, back to bed. JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-23057539976139225682011-08-09T18:30:00.000-07:002011-08-14T18:43:17.219-07:00Wiped Out With a Smile On My Face:)So we just returned from a five-day trip to Asheville, NC for the wedding of our nephew. I can't remember the last time we were away with our kids....and THIS time we had our kids AND our granddaughter! JACKPOT!! :) Add to that six cousins (from MA), brother-in-law and sister in law (from Atlanta), nephew (the groom) and new niece (the bride), another nephew & his g/f, extended family, friends ... and OHHH YEAHHH, my mother-in-law!! Haha!!!! So it all worked out great. But AS USUAL, following any trip let-alone a fairly active one, I am thoroughly EXHAUSTED. Something I've learned from having Lupus is that we make choices. We either participate in 'the games' and pay or we don't participate. Sometimes I DO choose to sit it out, but THIS time--I was not about to miss out on one single moment. Actually, that's not true. I DID miss out on some things...and those are usually the ones that occurred after 10PM. I just couldn't push anymore. As it is, I got home and got into PJ's (yesterday) and haven't gotten OUT of them since. I will take a shower tomorrow though, I PROMISE. This is just how it is. And what I am so grateful for is the fact that I don't have to get dressed to go to work. I'm SO fortunate in that I don't even have to work at ALL if I don't want to (thanks to my angel of a husband), but I really DO want to. I did a little work on Etsy today. I added two new items (earrings) which I will post here:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0E-n6byFoL0SNh-qkY0SL98SgBII1v_2gpk8Fa8cshqOBu5ZIgJX5-lzqp2IMwO9V8MAHVZXNuU_JS9zgR8v5v4Ya5HtvE70PA2fuKjkUNhRJXW0LScDoJgz-JZaBUVkOt0XaYdSKRY/s1600/DSCN2561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0E-n6byFoL0SNh-qkY0SL98SgBII1v_2gpk8Fa8cshqOBu5ZIgJX5-lzqp2IMwO9V8MAHVZXNuU_JS9zgR8v5v4Ya5HtvE70PA2fuKjkUNhRJXW0LScDoJgz-JZaBUVkOt0XaYdSKRY/s320/DSCN2561.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14u1fc5F1jkDV4dC9wSpT1gzyG6p9jS0U4jNoGrcS0Byvgobq0k6fzgNVvzunliGefl60c7-mTh5t88pNGoBxTGUTX1PR0it215OTjmosqRM-ryqzBm6-qQV9Nl-rrJLogNmdEuVtfVQ/s1600/DSCN2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14u1fc5F1jkDV4dC9wSpT1gzyG6p9jS0U4jNoGrcS0Byvgobq0k6fzgNVvzunliGefl60c7-mTh5t88pNGoBxTGUTX1PR0it215OTjmosqRM-ryqzBm6-qQV9Nl-rrJLogNmdEuVtfVQ/s320/DSCN2563.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I would also like to introduce you to a new friend I met on Etsy, Anne Pierce who owns "WeeLambieKnits". As soon as I can figure out how to include her link here, I will do so. (Another problem with the lupus & the fatigue is "BRAIN FOG" a/k/a DUHHHH~) Sorry, Anne!!<3JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-60608567428536229712011-08-03T18:56:00.000-07:002011-08-03T18:56:54.520-07:00I took the challenge AND I WON!I'm so excited to share some news with you! My treasury on Etsy was chosen as 'the winner' (It was called "Passionate about Purple") and AS the winner, I am featured in the blog by EJArt on Etsy. I've never done anything like this before so I really hope you all check it out and enter the raffle. You will be eligible to win a pair of Swarovski Pearl Earrings worth $35 made my me! It's SO easy! All you need to do is go to Elizabeth's blog (EJArt) and follow the instructions. The more you "like" me, the better your chances. Get it?? Here's the skinny: <br />
www.ejarttreasurypromo.blogspot.com<br />
GOOD LUCK TO YOU!JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-77528200900197541212011-07-25T11:00:00.000-07:002011-07-25T11:00:53.883-07:00Bye~Bye Earrings:)I really love it when a friend purchases a piece of jewelry. Some items more than others are somehow very special to me ... it's like they're my children ... but when they end up in the hands <or on the ears> of a friend, I feel SO happy! I know Debbie will enjoy these earrings for a long, long time ... and I KNOW they will be loved!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZMaSFyHHrnQadRzqs8frs2f5v2T2FpTXpbkRXkWzhA5G2qc7TiugcA0Ui-3sIWY11BMwZ967NoRnRDcSmW-f-W6Y5vVXaLw3Zf_myzwKVBQEXDLetlH6cvYV-2atLGCKwzK7b2FXnIU/s1600/DSCN2363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZMaSFyHHrnQadRzqs8frs2f5v2T2FpTXpbkRXkWzhA5G2qc7TiugcA0Ui-3sIWY11BMwZ967NoRnRDcSmW-f-W6Y5vVXaLw3Zf_myzwKVBQEXDLetlH6cvYV-2atLGCKwzK7b2FXnIU/s320/DSCN2363.JPG" /></a></div>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-31582118475479446562011-07-25T09:24:00.000-07:002011-07-25T09:24:55.164-07:00Not enough hours in a day!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have such a dilemma. My 'to-do' list is SOOO long and full of chores (more than my usual) and even though I seem to be getting to them one-by-one, I still feel as though I can't keep my head above water!! And the 'dilemma' is the fact that I just don't have the *ENERGY* to get to it all. It's one of the most frustrating aspects of this illness. My head and my heart say: "I have all these desires and wishes and goals and I need to DO them!" And with that, my body responds "Yeah, right!! That's not gonna happen!" <sigh> It's something I'm used to by now (33 years) but somehow, it's still one of these areas that I find difficult to deal with. Should I be less ambitious? How can I still be productive and purposeful within the parameters of a body that does not cooperate? Just one of the challenges of living life with a chronic condition...one of many. I guess what I do is simply this: I take it one-day-at-a-time. I do what I can do when I can do it. And when I can't...I don't. This week, I am preparing for my beautiful granddaughter's first birthday which we are celebrating in my home on Saturday. Thirty+ people. Still have some shopping to do and preparing a few little dishes. Fortunately, everyone's doing something...so it's not all on me. And then the following day I will be a vendor at a fundraiser for lupus called "Blues On The Bay". There's always LOTS to do before a craft show or fundraiser like getting pieces in order, polishing up some jewelry, making sure they're priced, getting my business card together (YIKES, something I forgot to put on my 'to-to' list!) and getting it all packed up along with displays & tables & gift bags OH MY!! My b.p. is going up as we speak. All I can do is pray for less pain this week and more energy so that I can accomplish AT LEAST the bare minimum of what I hope to accomplish. Wish me luck?</span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-41592491797410751162011-07-19T18:41:00.000-07:002011-07-20T14:05:51.788-07:00Back to the blog!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20124d;">Well, it's been about six months since I've posted here. At least I have a good "excuse" or reason, I should say for my absence -- OTHER than "I forgot" or "I had nothing to say", lol. I've been quite busy setting up my shop, JuJuBeader on Etsy.com. I jumped into it with both feet (and hands and every other body part) and perhaps should've done some research first, but y'know...that's just not how I roll. My style is to jump in, splash around for a while and THEN eventually, little-by-little figure it all out. I think I can honestly say that for the first three, maybe even four months, I REALLY didn't know what I was doing! HA! I don't know why that makes me laugh, but I guess it's better than crying about it. My sweet husband and I have differing opinions and styles on how we approach new endeavors. He is much more of a left-brain thinker, while I'm much more right-brain, more creative & much more visual person, overall. He will ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS read instructions before diving in to anything. I will hardly ever read instructions. Again, I'm laughing...which is fortunate because it's just one of many reasons our marriage is as good as it is! I think we compliment one another in the best ways possible. And yes, we make a good team. So, back to Etsy. I guess it was around April or May when I started to understand the in's and out's of how it works and what I should be focusing on, like better photos and tags & titles for my items. I had never even heard of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) before I started on Etsy and boy is there a lot to learn! It can be overwhelming. But I'm trying to take it one-day-at-a-time. I still have gobs & gobs to learn but I've come a long way! This does not necessarily mean that I now know what I'm doing or that I'm any kind of expert. But I'm forging ahead and learning and growing exponentially. I'm kind of going about it with the attitude: "fake it 'til you make it". I'm learning each and every day and I'm enjoying the process of reaching the various plateaus as I proceed with this experience. And so, I hope that you as my reader gain some enjoyment as you read the trials and tribulations of my business and of my life and I thank you for riding along!</span></span></span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-86754972063111807872011-01-31T18:28:00.000-08:002011-07-20T14:02:27.689-07:00... and time marches on<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">Almost February 1st, 2011 ALREADY. Every time I turn around, I'm startled by how quickly the time marches on. And have you noticed that it does so no matter what's going on in our lives? So it reminded me of an old "Ann Landers" column (or was it "Dear Abby") in which she answers a 40-year old woman's question about whether or not she should pursue a higher-education degree. The woman was concerned that perhaps she would be too old by the time she completed it. So Abby (or Ann) responded that no matter WHAT she decided to do, she would STILL turn 50 in 10 years! That message has stayed with me ever since. And although I've considered going back to school for a Master's degree (and soon after decided against it)...I know that there are things I want to do with my life. I'm working hard on my etsy page (www.jujubeader.etsy.com) and have also created a Facebook page for JuJuBeads (called "JujuBeader"). A little work on it every day helps me to feel like I'm useful and productive. OH! AND, I've also lost 6.6 lbs since 1/2/11! Looks like Weight Watchers + 30-minutes a day on my stationary bike 4-5x/week REALLY works! I guess the moral of my story is: *discipline feels GOOD*. I'll check back in shortly and give you another update. Thanks for stopping by!</span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-56300625007700857722010-12-12T17:56:00.000-08:002011-01-07T13:30:41.750-08:00Three more weeks to a New Year<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Quite unbelievable how quickly 2010 seemed to pass. Lots went on. Several BIG happenings in my life. Last March, I lost my Dad. He struggled with Congestive Heart Failure ... & seemed to get weaker and weaker with each passing month. I was fortunate enough to have made the decision to spend time in Florida about a month or so before he died. It was a wonderful, yet tough visit. He was fading fast, but still maintained the stubborn Czechoslovakian within. I think that even at the ripe age of <almost> 88, he still didn't see himself as being "old". OR, he simply didn't want to. After much bickering, he would finally agree to use his walker, yet when I awoke to find him walking to the bathroom at 3 am WITHOUT the WALKER, I lost my cool. I'd never "fought" with my Dad. I was never really allowed to do so. (I'll save THAT explanation for another post, though.) I PLEADED with him to use the darn thing. He fell once while I was there (and was hospitalized) and one week after I left, again--that was the REAL beginning of the end. A wonderful, stubborn man! THAT was who my Dad was. But I was always Daddy's girl. To tell you that I miss him dearly is a huge understatement. He passed away a little over four months prior to my becoming a Grandmother--the second huge occurrence for me in 2010. Along with my having my OWN baby 25+ years ago, this has been such a huge source of happiness in my life. And although my granddaughter is not my "blood relation" (she is the daughter of my stepdaughter), I couldn't love her more if she were "blood-related". That kind of stuff is BS to me. My (step)daughter, as far as I'm concerned, is my daughter. Not to take anything away from her Mom...it's just that I love her as much as I would have had I given birth to her. Watching her with little "N" is heart-warming. She is, and will continue to be a WONDERFUL Mom. And thirdly, my son made it to Broadway! Only 25 years old and apparently the youngest Music Director on Broadway (I was told)...we ALL couldn't be prouder!! To see him and HEAR him on that stage, belting it out (the last number of the show) made me cry happy tears EVERY time we saw it. All 'n' all, FIVE times. We're going one last time in two weeks, as the show is sadly closing. But that's OK! There's so much more in his future, we're not worried at all. So as you may have noticed, there is a pattern here. It's about <u>FAMILY</u>. My family and my friends are everything to me. Having lost three aunts, one uncle and my Dad all in the past two years--I feel like I've taken a real hit. My Mom is nearly 80 and has always been fiercely independent. And yes, she's now starting to show her age. So of the "older relatives", it's my Mom and it's my Aunt (Dad's sister), and my Mother-in-law. And that's it. I truly hope that between my husband and myself, we can continue to maintain relationships with our siblings, cousins, nephews and children "without incident". We all need one another. Perhaps we need to continue to instill this in our younger family members, as they may not REALLY understand yet. But they will, just as we learned from those before us. (I guess we really WERE listening!)</span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-53495402220195256392010-11-10T18:04:00.000-08:002010-11-11T17:49:25.984-08:00Gift of Life (and Love)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">One week ago, I went for a kidney transplant consultation at the advice of my regular nephrologist. Because of my Lupus, I now have 25% kidney function--not too good, eh? Surprisingly though, my kidneys are not </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">bad enough</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"> to go on the transplant (waiting) list...not yet anyway. My GFR (otherwise known as kidney function) needs to be 20% or less for me to even get my name on the list and that's not all. The waiting list in question is between 5-7 years for a cadaver kidney. WOW. Talk about staring your LIFE dead-in-the-face. So in the meantime, we wait to see if my twenty~five year old son is a match. I've been feeling VERY conflicted about him even being tested, but being that he is of proper age to make such a decision--I didn't stand in his way. He was insistent. So, I've got no other 'live donor' options at this point. I thought my brother was a possible donor until I found out that he's been on blood pressure med's for four years now. So, he's out. My husband doesn't have the same blood type as I have (O+) so right off the bat, he was out. Quite a predicament--and as sick as I've gotten over the years, I really never thought I'd be facing such an frightening dilemma. BUT I AM. And so, like every other obstacle and challenge I've faced in the last thirty~two years, I face this one HEAD-on. Full-force. Full-steam-ahead! Strong in the belief & the conviction that I will prevail and triumph over this 'little annoyance'. Just another 'ding' amongst life's dings...and let's face it, we've ALL got 'em. Some of us just have larger dings than others. So for now, I wait. And while I wait, I dream of how different my life can be once I'm on the other side of this. Me, only better. *I can live with that.* </span></span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-10176220135896249192010-10-26T13:11:00.000-07:002010-10-26T13:11:20.070-07:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">It's a constant struggle, to remain optimistic & hopeful ... especially on days like today. It took every ounce of my strength to shower & get dressed this morning. I managed to walk the dog but now the task of emptying the dishwasher seems as daunting as climbing a mountain. So it occurred to me that what I WAS able to do was to write...so here I am. The words don't always come easily. So I stare at the white page waiting for inspiration. Waiting for MOTIVATION. Waiting for this day to pass because maybe if I'm lucky, tomorrow will be better. And it usually is. And if it's not, I'll do what I usually do. Bitch a little, rest a lot & hope for a better day ahead.</span></span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-28348066859209300592010-10-17T11:46:00.000-07:002010-10-17T11:46:22.793-07:00I'm so fortunate to be surrounded by a great group of friends. Some I've known since elementary/junior high/and high school days & others I've met only through the computer (lupus support groups, a.v.n. support groups, facebook!), some I've never even met in person. Wow, what a world! It helps tremendously when you're at your low points & someone tells you that they know how you're feeling or they can't imagine how you're feeling, but they're there for you. Powerful. The friends who have seen me through the worst of times have really gotten to know my issues. The best-laid plans are often distinguished by an unexpected 'lupus headache' or a sudden drop in energy, like say last night. I was supposed to meet up with friends after a crazy day of driving an hour to the airport to pick up my husband following a two day business trip, rushing to a family function, but as luck (or UN-luck) would have it, I was wiped out. I was anticipating that that might be an issue, but thought maybe THIS time I could manage it, somehow. I always think that I could manage it--or maybe I'm just *hopeful* that I'll have just enough in me to get through it all. I was supposed to spend the night (with said friends) and enjoy hanging out together for the day. But, here I am in my PJ's instead. And then within moments, my mind automatically goes to "Well, I guess it could be worse. I could be in the hospital"!! <sigh> It's helped me to cope. Knowing that things could always be worse really does put things into perspective because let's face it, even when we think we're in the midst of the worst possible scenario, there's always a situation BEYOND that could be SO much worse! So for example, when recently I was barely able to walk through the streets of Paris, I thought "Well, at least I'm HERE"...or..."It could be worse. I could be a parapalegic, so just make the best of it". Disturbing, perhaps--but it has helped me to cope. I suppose I learned a lot about coping from my parents, two tough individuals who survived The Holocaust. They taught me to be strong & resilient, not only through their words, but through their actions as well. So, THANKS Mom & Dad for giving me the tools to welcome every day (or most days) with a smile and an inherent belief that I can HANDLE it, whatever "it" may be! And Daddy, I see you in my dreams & hope you're in a better place. I miss you with all my heart.JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5697056751691893961.post-35649794215369116362010-10-15T12:21:00.000-07:002010-11-11T17:50:42.956-08:00The Beginning<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">OK. Where does one begin? At the BEGINNING, of course! So, I'll start by introducing myself. My name is Judy and I'm a 50 <ahem> year old woman (still getting used to that number), living a wonderful life with my wonderful husband. Our kids are grown and are living their own wonderful lives, what more could parents ask for? My life really IS wonderful. My husband just recently surprised me with a trip to Paris (for my 50th) and prior to that, our daughter had a beautiful baby girl! And if that weren't enough, our son just made his Broadway debut. WOW! So, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful! ON THE OTHER HAND...I'm living with many challenges, due to a chronic illness I've been battling for more than 32 years. I have Lupus, an inflammatory, autoimmune disease which affects my joints, my skin, my energy & my kidneys. It can affect any organ in the body and most often affects women, usually in their child-bearing years, (though not limited to). I was a senior in High School when I was diagnosed and by the time I was a freshman at college, the shit really hit the fan. I've been on chemotherapy twice (for months at a time) because my regular meds were not enough to combat the "lupus nephritis" which attacked my kidneys. My REGULAR meds in turn attacked my bones (hips & shoulder, so far) which is why I've had both hips replaced, my first surgery occurring when I was 28 years old. I could go on. But my focus is NOT the limitations put forth by my illness, in spite of the fact that let's face it: My life IS often determined by my Lupus; by how I'm FEELING, by how much energy I have or don't have, by how much PAIN I'm in. My quest is to accept the reality while striving to be the BEST wife/mother/grandmother/friend/and *beyond* that I can be. It's the *beyond* that I most struggle with. And that's what I hope to touch on in the days, weeks and months ahead...to learn how to fulfill my "artist within", this need to create & expand & feel like a productive individual--even within the parameters I've been given. And so, I've BEGUN!!!</span></span>JuJuBeaderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00012451726153102941noreply@blogger.com3