Warm Christmas Wishes....

   A little hello to wish you all a very Merry Christmas 

and a Happy and Healthy New Year.    

     I hope you are all well and looking forward to having a wonderful Christmas with your Family and Friends.

     For the first time in many years I did not create or send out any Christmas Cards, which has been a bit bittersweet.   I am very thankful and grateful to each of you who took the time to send one to us.  I love them all and it always makes me smile to find "Happy Mail" in my box.

     The Cancer battle is exhausting, but overall, I'm still doing okay, fighting hard and hoping be resume my treatments soon.   I'm due for my next CT Scans just after Christmas and hope I'll continue to be stable.  Thank you for your continued support, prayers and healing thoughts.   I continue to take each day as they come and will always be hoping and praying for a Cure.....

     I'd also like to say Thank You to everyone who has purchased Craft Goodies and Purple Packages over the last few months.   Your kindness and generosity has touched my heart.  I still have tons to sell, but have been busy trying to focus on Christmas and the birth of my little Grand daughter who should be here in another 8 weeks.    I hope to start packing boxes again in the New Year, and you can always email me any special requests.    

    Thanks for stopping by -- take care and be well...

     

    

To all our Veterans!!

  Thank you for your Service!  

  “Never give in — never, never, never, never,  in nothing great or small,   large or petty, never give in except to  convictions of honor and good sense.    Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently  overwhelming might of the enemy.”       Winston Churchill

More goodies for sale....

   Hi everyone!  Hope you are all fine and well!!   I finally took the time to package up more of my "Purple Packages" to sell, along with a few other items.   Everything is listed on the "Purple Packages" page and you can buy everything offered using the PayPal Buttons.   These typically sell out in a few days and as always are First Come / First Serve. - My sincere thanks for your wonderful support and also all the positive feedback I have received on the packages.   I appreciate you all very much and am happy to know that all my goodies will be well loved and used!!    I am also selling a Misti Package and a brand new set of Dr. Ph. Martin Inks, they are also listed on the Purple Package Page with pictures and more details.

     As for me, I'm doing okay -- still fighting the dreadful Cancer Battle and taking each day as the come.   I am scheduled for my latest round of CT Scans this week which is always a bit stressful.   In early September, due to side effects from my Opdivo, (Immunotherpay Infusions), I developed Pneumonia, which required me to stop treatment, once again.  This is the third time I have had issues with side effects that are known to cause Pneumonia / Pneumonitis.   Thankfully, mine has been low grade,  (asymptomatic) and has not required hospitalization or any steroid treatment.    But, it's is a bit nerve wrecking to have Cancer and not be able to treat it.   As you may remember I've already been through Chemo and Radiation and even though I was cancer free last summer for a short time, the Chemo stopped working, which often happens with Stage IV Cancer.    Currently, this is the ONLY available treatment and despite the side effects, it has worked well in reducing the size of my lung tumor and has kept the cancer from spreading.  I'm also grateful that the specialized form of radiation I had for my brain tumor, worked perfectly and there has been no recurrence of that!    If the scans are clean and the pneumonia is gone, then I will be able to re-start my treatment again.  If not, (well I don't want to go there now), but it will not be good and may mean that I will need to consider a clinical trial) and to be honest, having had such issues with FDA approved treatments, a trial is very scary!  So for now, I plan to remain very positive!!  I am still determined to fight this battle and continue to hope every day for a new treatment option or cure.   

    Sadly, my Oncologist, who I adore, will be leaving this area and when I see her Wednesday it will be our last appointment.   I literally cried when she told me last month and I know I'm going to miss her terribly!   It's hard enough to be in this battle, but even worse if you do not feel 100% confident with your team. Thankfully because of the close relationship we have established she plans to give me her private email and told me that I can feel free to keep in touch and contact her with any questions or concerns that may come up.   She will now be affiliated with Dana Farber Cancer Institute, which is a fantastic opportunity for her and know this is really a wonderful thing for her, so in that way I am happy, but still wish she wasn't' leaving.   She will now be more focused on research, particularly Thoracic Oncology which is perfect for me.    Dana Farber (Boston) is where I went for my second opinions, when I was originally diagnosed.   She will be in their South Shore division, which is even further away.   I do plan to keep in touch and won't hesitate to travel to see her, as needed for second opinions.   However, it's simply much to far to travel for my bi-weekly appointments, labs, tests and infusions.   I love that I ahve been able to have my care at my local hospital, (I once worked there, so I knew it well and feel so comfy there). I also really love their Oncology unit and the nursing staff.  To have to commute 4-5 hours (round trip) is simply not an option.  Sigh....   

     I still miss creating very much, and really had hoped by now I would have more energy, and start again, but that is not happening.  I still have lots of goodies to sell and will continue to fill boxes and add them to my blog.   If you are looking for any particular items, please feel free to contact me.    

Thanks as always for stopping by and for your caring thoughts!!  Big Hugs to you ALL!!

Happy News!!!!

I am very happy and excited to let you all know that I has the pleasure of going with Alex, (my son) and Acacia (my Daughter-in-Law) to her Ultrasound on Friday.   We have been waiting patiently for a long time for this one because we knew that it would be very likely they  would be able to find out if the baby is a Boy or Girl!!
And I'm delighted to tell you all that they are expecting a  Sweet, Adorable, Healthy and Active - Baby GIRL!!

  As a Mom who has raised two son (who I LOVE with all my heart), and having lost my only daughter as a stillborn, I had been hoping that we would be adding a baby girl into our lives.   Ultimately, all we really wanted was a Healthy Baby, but I admit I am "Tickled Pink" to know that it's going to be a Baby Girl.
   Today, I had my first "Baby Girl" online shopping spree and it was so much fun.   I found so many adorable outfits and now can hardly wait for this sweet baby to be born.    Acacia is halfway through her Pregnancy now and is due on February 18th.   Both she and Alex have birthday's on the the 16th of the month and were also married on the 16th, so we think it would be extra special if this baby arrived on the 16th too!!
    I am thrilled that I'm finally going to have my very first Grandchild, and will continue to fight my cancer battle and be here to love and cherish her for a long time.  
   

    

Remember 911

   In many ways it does not seem possible that 15 years had passed since the horrific events of 911.  I can still remember exactly where I was that beautiful September morning.   And I will never ever forget the fear and shock of seeing it all unfold that day on TV.   I remember how much I just wanted my family to all be home that day and was so happy when the kids arrived home from school and then my husband from work.   It was definitely one of the most difficult days of my life.
   My heart goes out to each and every family that was touched and hurt by the awful acts of terrorism and I hope and pray that I will never ever see such a tragedy again in my life.  I also HOPE every day for Peace and want very much for the world to be a better place for my children and my soon to be first grandchild.  
    In Loving Memory of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001

And to all those who reached out to help ......

     Hugs and love to all....
     

....Hi everyone....

   I am very sorry for the the lack of updates.  My main computer crashed a couple of weeks ago and I still have not had the time or energy to research find a new one.   I also do not really want to spend any money on one, at this time.   I am extremely disappointed with Dell, who has refused to stand behind their products.  Long story short, my computer was only a little over two years old and died very fast, basically right after the warranty ran out and the estimate to try to fix it, is just not worth it.  But, I miss it terribly!   I have an iPad and a small HP laptop, but really am a PC gal and miss my large screen and the ability to type on a normal keyboard.

  I re-started my Opdivo treatments in August, and after only two treatments, developed a sudden high fever, belly pain and other issues which sent me to the ER last Friday night, where I spent six hours having a variety of tests and such.  In the end they determined I have Pneumonia, although it was found very early, but is again and issue that developed because of the Opdivo, so I'm now OFF it again and waiting for the new "plan".  Thankfully, my lung tumor which is in my right lung and is stable.   The pneumonia is in the left and is a mild form (not symptoms other than the fever) which only lasted about 24 hours.   And my cancer had not been found anywhere new and also has not grown despite the lack of treatments, which is my Happy News!!   Even so, I am concerned about where we go from here, since it looks like this treatment will not likely be an option for me now?

    Most of my time has been spent sleeping, as I continue to battle relentless fatigue, partly from the Opdivo, partly from the Cancer, some from the Pneumonia and of course, the Fibromyalgia that I have been battling with for several years now.   Life is NOT very fun these days and I have had some really down and depressed days, as you can imagine.

    My oldest son,  who lives in San Diego, also was hospitalized for a sudden onset of what they first thought was "septic arthritis" in his knee and that was very stressful for me, being across the country and not knowing how he was.   Now we know it is a very rare viral type arthritis likely caused by a food borne illness (Salmonella, we think), he had just two weeks before he was here.  He was home for a short visit (which I loved), and had been fine, except tired, but the day he was flying home he woke up with knee pain--we never imagined what would follow.  Needless to say his flight home was NOT good.  He is also moving up to (Northern San Diego County) and starting a brand new job.  The timing of all of this is awful and I so wish I had been able to be there when he was sick. Luckily, he kept in touch all the time and his medical team also keep me updated, but it sure is not easy having a child (no matter what age), in the hospital when you are 3,000+ miles away.   He's out now and slowing improving, but it's hard to know he's in pain and I can't wait for him to be settled into his new place, working and doing well again!

    Right now I'm too wiped out to pack up any new "Purple Packages" but really do need to get back to it soon, so please keep checking.   I still have so much to sell, and hope to feel better soon, to get back to that task.   I wish I could just have a huge in home sale and invite you all here?   It's a huge amount of work to do this, especially when you are not feeling good and then do not have your main computer!!  Ugh!!  Life is definitely throwing challenges my way and making it a bit of a struggle, but I still and trying my best!!    One Day at a Time!!

Hope you are ALL much better and please feel free to email me, IF you want or need any crafty things.  I do plan to add more packages and such, but simply need to find the energy to do it!! Thanks for ALL your past support -- your kindness is deeply appreciated!!

Happy Friday - Purple Packages!!

  Wishing everyone a Happy Friday and hope you all have a wonderful weekend.   It's hard to believe we are more than halfway through the month of August - WOW!! Where does the time go.

  I wanted to post a little update to thank you all for your amazing notes, cards, and messages.  I am so grateful to everyone who has been so sweet and supportive to me throughout my cancer battle.  I can't begin to tell you how much it means from me to know I have so many people routing for me.  

  This week I re-started my Opdivo treatments and pray they will work.  I'll be having one more before my next CT scan and we all hope that the tumor will again be smaller and that the Pneumonitis is now gone -- I hate to think about what is next IF not, since I now my options are very limited, at this time. As always I try to focus on each day as they come.

   I thought I was almost ready to sell my Copics and have now realized I'm NOT -- Sorry about the confusion and thanks for your understanding.

  Today I  packaged up more "Purple Packages" and have ALL sizes now stocked up.   If you have any problems with the PayPal buttons, please let me know.  I know there are times when they do not work correctly and that does not necessarily mean the packages are sold out !! --  Please, feel free to email me, if you have any issues in trying to buy them.   To help cover more of the shipping and PayPal fees., I slightly increased the price ($5) for the small and medium sizes.  I hope you will understand.   I pack a ton into every package and have received wonderful feedback - they are still a great value.

   UPDATE -- Due to a HUGE response, all the Medium and Large Boxes have SOLD OUT and I have only (2) small left.   If all goes well and I feel okay - I will plan to pack more this weekend! THANK you ALL for the orders!   Woweeeeeeeeeeeeee!!

  Thanks again for everything -- I am truly blessed with so many wonderful friends!!   Your support has been amazing!!

 Hugs, 

  Lisa

Purple Packages have been re-stocked!!!

  I once again want to first take time to send you a HUGE Thank you to everyone who has made craft purchases with me the past few months.     Sadly, I still have not felt well enough to craft, so I have decided to sell off a lot more of my supplies.  If you know anyone who is looking for a "Brother Scan n Cut CM250" that is pretty much "brand new" and in Excellent Condition, please let me know.  Ideally I think it will need to be sold  locally, since the shipping fees are so expensive.   I bought it last year and honestly have only used it one time, and that was simply to test it and make sure it works.   I'll be happy to send you a copy of my Amazon Receipt, if you buy it.   It's currently listed on my local Craig's List and on my Facebook page.    It comes with ALL the original supplies, plus extra mats, blades and markers, as well as a brand new "Never Used" rolling tote.    If you know anyone in my local area -- Please let me know!  I'm selling it ALL for only $300 which is  great deal.  I have $500 invested in the machine/tote and supplies.   

   I have re-stocked the "Purple Packages" in all three sizes and will continue to work on adding more, as they sell.   I have not been feeling well very often, so it takes me a lot longer to put them together these days.

       Thanks so much for your continued kindness and support.  I'll be back to see my Oncologist on Tuesday, so we can hopefully figure out my next treatment plan.    

Happy August!!! Purple Packages are back!!

   Summer is flying by, it's hard to believe that it's already the second day in August!  WOW!!    I have been resting and enjoying some time just hanging at home and visiting Alex and Acacia when he's home from his "business" travels.   I am so excited about our new "Grandbaby" and look forward to going with Acacia to one of her next Ultrasounds.    She's now 12 weeks and doing great -- seeing the pictures from her last ultrasound make this seem so much more "real".  We could see the baby's little arms and legs, a big change from the very first ultrasound!  

 

   I am also SUPER happy that Brian will be coming home for a visit at the end of the month and can't wait to see him.   One year ago this week I was actually out in San Diego, and it was my third trip of the year -- I loved every minute and wish so much I felt better and had the money to make another trip, but right now I'm too sick to travel and have far too many medical bills to pay first!   The hardest part about this darn Cancer is having to spend our hard earned money to cover all the deductible and co-pays -- seems to unfair to spend thousands and thousands and still feel miserable.  I hope every day for a good day and pray for a cure!!  

   I saw my Oncologist and Pulmonary doctor for my follow up and had new CT Scans and Lab work on the 19th.   The scans basically looked better, which is awesome, but I am still on a "treatment break" because of the side effect of "Pneumonitis" that I have developed.  This is one of the well known side effects of using Opdivo, luckily mind is a low grade type and does not require any treatment, at this time.  The CT scan also showed that it is improving, which is excellent, since it can become a very serious illness (some patient's have died with severe cases) and it's one of the reasons, I was afraid to try this drug from the start.   I know things could be so much worse, so I'm still taking "One Day at a Time".  The plan is to keep me off for a few more weeks and we hope it will resolved on it's own.   I go back on August 15th and we'll know then and we'll determine when I can restart the Opdivo.    To be honest, I really had hoped that I would have felt a whole lot better at this point, especially since my lung tumor has continued shrink - but I'm not!   The fatigue never ends and I still have a lot of nausea and other side effects.   It's kind of depressing to be feeling so much worse than I was last Summer, considering I'm "supposedly" doing much better -- Go Figure?

  Today, I'm going to be packing up a few more "Purple Packages" and will have them listed on my Sale Page later this afternoon.   I still have a quite a bit to sell, and just needed to find some energy to put together more packages.  They have been a big hit and I'm truly very thankful to everyone who has purchased from me.  Many of you have become great friends and shopped with me now several times --- You ROCK!     I'm very thankful and grateful to everyone who is helping me to get through this miserable battle!!  Big Hugs to you ALL!!

  

   Hope you are all enjoying Summer -- as much as I used to absolutely LOVE Summer, I find I really mind the heat and humidity now and also can't tolerate being out in the hot sun.   A huge change for me, a gal who was once a huge "Beach" person - I do miss it, but it's not fun now and I'm much better off being comfy and cool at home.    I do hope when I start treatment that I might start to eventually feel better and get back to some card-making - I miss that so much.  I have been keeping updated by taking new classes at the Online Card Classroom and this week started the latest class by Tim Holtz whihc is "Creative Chemistry 103".   The third in his series which is excellent.   I do enjoy the videos and seeing what everyone is creating!   If you love online classes, I highly recommend you hop on over and take some.  They are fabulous and well worth every penny.   Jennifer and Kristina are also two of my favorite designers and two people I know call friends. 

 Thanks for stopping by --- I miss you all and hope you are all doing great!!

  

Back to Treatment....

Hi Everyone,

   First, I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who has been purchasing "Craft Goodies" from my blog for the past couple of months.   Your continued kindness and support has been amazing and I'm very grateful to each and every one who has shopped with me.  Many of you have made several purchases and that truly touches my heart.

    As of today, ALL the "Purple Packages" have SOLD OUT, which is perfect timing, as I had planned to close the sales for a bit, since I'm starting treatments again this week.   Amazingly the last six packages all sold this weekend - THANK YOU for your orders!    I won't be adding any  new packages for a few weeks as I need time to totally re-organize and see how much more I can sell via mail.

   Tomorrow, I had back to my Oncology Unit for a very busy week, starting with CT Scans tomorrow morning, which are always a bit stressful.  We all know they are being done to check on the status of my tumor and to make sure there is no growth or anything new and as you can imagine, it's hard waiting each time for the results.    Tuesday, I see my Oncologist for those results and also my latest lab results and if all looks good, the plan will be to restart my Opdivo infusions that day too.  I also go back on Thursday for a follow-up with the Pulmonary Surgeon who did my Bronchoscopy earlier this month and hopefully the "reaction" in my lungs that showed on the test, will now be clear.

    I also have been pretty wiped out again lately, and am very much looking forward to a little break and some down time to totally rest and relax.  Brian, (my son in San Diego), is planning to come home for a little visit in early August and I want to cherish all the time I can with him, while he is here, since I'm not able to travel out and see him, at this time.  I do hope maybe I'll have more energy in the Fall and be able to go back again.  I LOVE San Diego and totally enjoy it when I go, but the travel is exhausting and right now, I'm just to tired for that part.   Alex has been traveling more in his job, and I now miss him a lot more too, so I hope to spend more time with him and Acacia, this week.  He's due home today, so I am very happy about that.

     Wishing you all a wonderful Summer -- Keep on creating and again, Thank you for all your support, kindness and LOVE!    It means the world to me!!

Happy Summer!!! Happy News!!!!

Hi Friends.....

   Stopping by to say Hello and wish you all a wonderful Summer.   It's hard to believe that we are already into the second week of July -- times is flying by.    Our Summer has been okay, but we have not had the best of weather, which is sad, since it's such a short season.  Today, it's lovely again, but we just had three days or cloudy, rains and unseasonably cool temps.

    I also wanted to let you know that am currently SOLD OUT of the Large Size "Purplicious" packages, but I do have a limited supply of the Lavender and Amethyst available now on my "Purple Packages" page.  I also have a few dies sets that I came across and realized that they had not been correctly stored with the matching stamps, which were previously sold.  You can find the last few also now on the sale page at greatly reduced prices.    As of today, ALL orders have been shipped and the vast majority have been delivered.   Once I sell what I currently have left in stock, I'm going to be taking a break, as I need to totally organize what I have left to see how much more I want sell and/or plan to keep.  I truly do HOPE to eventually feel better and slowly get back to creating, so I'm going to be sure to keep a good supply of my favorite things.   I already regret selling some of my beloved things, but I am happy to know they will all be well-loved and used!  Please enjoy and please know how much I value each and everyone who has made purchases for the last few months. 

   I also have some SUPER exciting and very HAPPY news to share -- I am going to be a "NANA" !!  Woohoo!   And, I am absolutely thrilled and could not be happier.  If you know me, then you'll know that I've been hoping and waiting for a long time to have a Grandchild and it's been a dream that is not coming true for me.   My son Alex, and his wife Acacia are expecting our first grand baby who is expected to arrive in early February!   This is so special to me and now has me more determined than ever to fight hard to try and win my Cancer Battle.

    Acacia is doing great and feeling pretty well, she's had some nausea and fatigue, as istypical, but overall is very happy and excited.  She has already had her first OB Appointment and goes back this week for her second.   We all realize it's very early, and I admit, I did not plan to tell everyone quite so soon, but am so happy that I could not help by share this wonderful news.   She's also scheduled for her first ultrasound later this month and we are hoping at that time, they can find out if they'll be having a Boy or Girl.  Having raised two sons, I would love to have a sweet little Girl in our lives, but ultimately we truly want a very healthy and happy baby.

    Acacia sent me this special gift and I have it proudly displayed in my craft room - it touched my heart and she and Alex know how thrilled I am for them both.   Her parents are equally as happy and they have two sweet little Grandsons, so they would also very quite happy with a  Grand-daughter.  Think PINK!!

   As for me, I have been feeling okay and it was nice to have a six week treatment break, the very first one, since I was diagnosed, last March.  It's hard to believe some days, that I've been in the battle for well over a year now and I continue to hope everyone for a cure.  I'm due for my next round of CT Scans on Monday, and see my Oncologist on Tuesday for the results and for updated labs.  I also have a follow up with my Pulmonary Surgeon on Thursday and expect to be started back on the Opdivo Infusion next week too.

   I'm also delighted that Brian will be coming home for a visit in early August.  I can't wait to see him and also hope that I can get back out to San Diego in the Fall.   I have not been out there since February and after making five trips last year, I really miss it.  I love it out there and always looks forward to visiting him, but just have not felt well enough to travel for the past few months.     

   So, as you can tell, I have lots of Happiness in my life right now and lots of wonderful things to look forward too, which is perfect for me.  It gives me hope and encouragement and that extra push I sometimes need to keep on fighting.   

   Big Hugs to you all and my sincere thanks for all the kindness and support you have shared with me for the past 16 months.  I still have a tough battle, but I'm now more determined than ever to beat this nasty illness so that I can spend lots of time loving my new Grand-baby!!! 

Happy 4th!! -- Purple Packages are BACK!!

     Wishing everyone a very Happy and Safe 4th of July!  I hope you are all enjoying time with your family and friends.
  

      In our little Town, they celebrate the 4th starting with the Annual Fireman's Parade,  followed by a Legion Band Concert and then a Bonfire on "Back Beach".  

 Rockport, MA

 Bonfire 2016

Past Bonfire

     In Gloucester, (the next town over and where I grew up) there are two parades.  The main parade, is always on the 3rd and is known as the Fishtown Horribles Parade, followed by Fireworks at Dusk over the Gloucester Harbor.

Fishtown Horribles Parade

Stacy Boulevard, Gloucester, MA

Fireworks 2016

Gloucester Harbor

     And there is a very fun little neighborhood parade called the "Lanesville Parade" that is held on the 4th of July in the "Lanesville" section of Gloucester, (where I grew up).  This parade is bittersweet to me, as my brother Greg, (who I lost in 1999 in a tragic accident), was one of the original founders.   This marks their 25th year.  For many years, this parade was followed by a Bonfire in Lane's Cove, sadly the city will no longer allow that tradition to continue.

Lanesville Parade

     I'm still not feeling so hot, so I will not be at any of the events this year, but do hope that everyone has a lot of fun.   Hubby is on vacation this week and we'll also celebrate our Anniversary on Friday.  Hoping to feel better and spend some time relaxing and maybe get out for a nice dinner.

      I also wanted to let you all know the my "Purple Packages" are now re-stocked and available for purchase on the Sale Page.  Special thanks again to everyone has already purchased them and been so supportive!   They have been a bit hit and it's hard at times for me to keep them in stock and ready to ship.  This batch is now all ready to go and I can ship again starting tomorrow, July 5th!    

Still miserable...

I'm still feeling pretty miserable....but slowly improving!!   However to this illness, I will not be shipping any "Purple Packages" until sometime after the  4th of July.   I HOPE to feel better the by the weekend so that I can try to get out and enjoy  some fun time with family and friends.
  ALL orders have been shipped -- and tracking details have been sent.     Thanks for your continue support!  Still taking One Day at a Time!!    

 

A little update....

   Feeling really lousy and have been basically in bed for the past day ~ hoping this will pass quickly~UGH! 

   I shipped out two Purple Packages this morning and my last order will go out tomorrow morning.   I am also now currently "Out of Stock" on ALL the Purple Packages.   As soon as I am
feeling better, I'll have more back in stock.

   Thank so much for your continued Kindness and Support!

Goodies Packages -- Back in Stock!!

 Happy Friday!!

    I want to take a moment to send out a heartfelt Thank You to everyone who has purchased my new "Purple Packages"!! -- They've turned out to be a huge hit and I'm also very happy to say that ALL the feedback has been wonderful.  Special thanks to those of you who have left comments here.  I truly makes me smile to know how pleased you have all been with your orders!  

    I'm also happy to announce that all three sizes  are now back in stock, with limited quantities in each size.    My goal will be to try and always have a least one of each size available.  However, some days they sell so fast, I honestly can't keep up!  -- Thank you again for the wonderful response!

 "Purple Packages" - Available in Three Sizes

Small - USPS Priority Mail - Padded Flat Rate Envelope for $35.00

Medium- USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Medium Size Box for $60.00

Large -  USPS Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Box for $85.00

Prices include FREE SHIPPING and USPS Tracking 

 
    I use USPS Flat Rate products and ship to the USA ONLY!!   Please keep in mind that I am paying all the shipping costs and the PayPal fess and those charges are reflected in my pricing.   Each package is still a great value and I have had excellent feedback from everyone who has already made purchases.  All orders are processed and payable through PayPal. 

    The "Purple Packages" sale page has now been updated so that you can easily purchase packages with the new PayPal Buttons.   This feature has been a huge time saver and also allows me to easily keep track of the quantity currently available, and saves me from having to manually send an invoice for each sale.   I hope you'll also find it easier to makes purchases. 

    ALL packages will contain a variety of Craft Goodies including items like:  Card-stock, Patterned Papers/Pads, Card Bases and Envelopes, Rubber Stamps, (Sets and Individual Stamps), Steel Dies, Embellishments (Flowers, Bling, Glitters), Paper Punches, Adhesives/Tapes, Embossing Products, Ink Pads, Ink Refills, Paints, Sprays, Markers and Stencils basically, all kinds of Paper-crafting items.   I am selling two rooms full of goodies and have a wonderful assortment of products from the leading craft manufacturers.    Please keep in mind that I can not take "Special Orders", or provide itemized lists of what is in each package, but I promise to do my very best to put together full packages that I think you'll be very happy with.    Additionally, we all have different tastes and you may end up a some goodies that are not your style or may be a duplicate of an item you already own -- If so, please share those items with your craft friends and/or donate them to a local school or charity.   My goal is to know that all my goodies will be in new homes, where they will once again be loved and used.

    The proceeds from all sales go toward my medical expenses.  Every time you place an order, you are helping me fight my Cancer Battle!    Thank You!!!

     All packages can now quickly and easily be purchased using the PayPal Buttons I have added to the sale page.   Simply select the package you want to purchase and click the "BUY NOW" Button, which will take you directly to a PayPal checkout out page.  

Questions?  Please feel free to email me -- leezza@gmail.com

    

    

   

Happy Summer....

Hi Everyone,
   How are you all doing?  I hope you are enjoying the beginning of Summer and I hope we all have a wonderful Summer with lots of gorgeous blue skies and sunshine.  Today, is one of those beautiful days here in Massachusetts.   Our weather has actually been unseasonably cool for June and we've had a lot of cloudy days, but not a lot of rain.    

    As for me, I'm still fighting this miserable Cancer and have been feeling really lousy for the past couple of weeks.   I am suffering from the side-effects associated with treatments and as this point, I am no longer planning to have any more "Opdivo" which is the Immunotherapy drug that I've been having since late in December.   As of last week, I have had (12) Infusions and was doing well with it for the first 5 or 6, but since that time, it's wiped me out.   Extreme fatigue, nausea, GI issues and so on and the side effects get worse with each Infusion.  At first, I would only feel lousy for a few days after each one (they are bi-weekly), but now, I'm pretty much sick the entire time.   I have spent countless hours in bed, mostly sleeping, just trying to gain some energy and feel better.   UGH!  Not fun and not at all how I want to spend my life, which is why I decided to stop it.  There is not point in taking a drug that makes you spend your life in bed-that is NO quality of life.

    There is a chance that I may be able to stop (any and all treatments) for six weeks (maybe longer), but that all depends on the results of a new lung biopsy, that I need to have done.  I'll be having that on Friday (by Bronchoscopy), and hope it goes very well.   My latest CT Scan, sadly, showed some new nodules (although tiny), and we need to determine whether or not they are Cancer.  If they are NOT, then my Oncologist plans to give me this long treatment break, so I can try to enjoy summer and build up some strength.  If however, they are cancer, that means that the cancer has once again some back and I will need to consider other treatment option.  Unfortunately, they are not a lot of options for Stage IV Lung Cancer, especially since I already had Chemo and Radiation.  But, I'm not giving up and still hoping for something that can work for me.   I was told from day one that my Cancer being late stage, was never curable, but treatable !   Now, we simply need to find another treatment option.    

     I honesty just want to start to feel better, so I can enjoy my life and have some fun.  I miss creating, but simply have no energy.    Oh and speaking of creating, I took down my "Goodies for Sale" page, as that was too much for me to handle, right now.  Maybe in time, I'll open another one, but it's just too much for me right now.     Even so, I still need to find a way to "sell" off a huge amount of goodies.  If you have any ideas or suggestions, please share.    Special thanks to everyone who did buy "Goodies" for the last couple of months, I truly appreciate your kindness and they money was very helpful in paying some of medical expenses.    

   As always thanks for stopping by-have a wonderful Summer...and as always - Happy Crafting!

  

Taking a little break....

Hello Friends,

     Happy June -- WOW!  Where does the time go!    I'm doing okay, basically taking One Day at a Time in my Cancer Battle.  I had my 12th Opdivo Infusion this week and today it's really started to hit me, (which is typical).  I'll need lots of extra rest and will also need to close my "Goodies for Sale" page for the next few days.  If all goes well, I plan to open it again next week.  

        I want to once again say a HUGE Thank You to  everyone who has shopped with me.  As of this now, ALL Paid orders have shipped and the last two will ship as as soon as your PayPal payments clear, they are all packaged and ready to go!!   Thank you!!

       A special THANK YOU to Connie Brooks who very kindly took the time to promote my sale in the "Selling your Craft Supplies" Facebook group!   That post brought in several new sales this week and I'm very grateful to Connie for her kind words.  She has shopped with me many times now and is a sweet and kind friend, who has gone out of her way to do some very specials things for me!  Thank you again Connie--for everything!   

        It really makes me feel good to know that these items will now once again be used and well-loved!   Happy Creating!!

Hope you are all enjoying the beginning of a wonderful Summer!

 

My Goodies for Sale Page is open again!!

Hi Friends,

  Just wanted to once again THANK YOU for all your purchases.   I added several new items on my Goodies for Sale page and I also reduced prices on some of the items which have not sold.

    I accept only PayPal payments.  My apologies, but I simply do not get out to a bank and we do ALL our banking online.  Additionally, I am now shipping to the USA Only - I ship exclusively from my home and ship all orders via USPS First Class or Priority Mail.  Thanks for your understanding.

     The Cancer battle continues and is truly a challenge, as I am extremely fatigued, but still fighting hard.   I am thrilled that the MRI I had on Wednesday, was absolutely fine!   There is NO sign of the  tumor or any new issues.   My CT Scan showed some tiny new lung"nodules", but they may simply be an "after effect" of the Radiation treatments I had in November!   My Oncologist is presenting my "Case" at the "Oncology Board Team" meeting on Monday, to determine what is next, as far as treatments go.  Taking One Day at a Time and hoping for this best.  Thank you all for your prayers, well wishes, happy thoughts and all the wonderful handmade cards that continue to arrive in my mail, they quickly make a bad day, so much brighter!

      Now, more than I ever, it's so important to me to sell more of my Craft things --  I truly want them all to be in a new home where they will be loved and used.  I have two rooms full of craft goodies to go through, and it's taking time, but I'm working hard to add new things every couple of days.

    If you would like to order or if there are any particular items you are looking for, please feel free to email me - leezza@gmail.com.  Thank you!  

Hello....

Hello Friends,

   Nothing too much new here, but I do have several medical appointments coming up and will be very busy this next week, plus then recovering from all the tests, 

as well as another "Opdivo" infusion.

Thanks so much again to everyone who has shopped with me.  As of this now, ALL, orders have shipped and been received.   I also want say THANK YOU for the kind emails so many of you have sent to tell me your packages have arrived and how pleased you have been with your purchases.  It really makes me feel good to know that these items will now once again be loved and used  to create some fabulous new projects.
Hope you are all enjoying Spring!!   We are finally having some nice Sunny and Warm weather,  which is such a blessing after a lot of cold and rainy days.
Happy Creating and again, thanks for your support!!

Happy Friday....and Heartfelt thanks....!!

  Wishing everyone a very Happy Friday!   Today is a lovely Spring Sunny day, the first sunny day we've had ALL week and it sure makes me feel better to feel the warmth of the sun and see some pretty blue skies.

   I'm also feeling a bit better and have now "Re-Opened" my little blog store, where you'll fine more new "Craft Goodies" on sale as well and reduced prices on some of the sets that have not yet sold.   Thank you ALL for the continued sales and support.   As of today, ALL orders have shipped and the majority have been delivered.  I thank for you all emailing me you kind thank-you notes and for your continued support!

    I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and for those of you are celebrating "Mother's Day", please enjoy time with your Mom or being pampered as a Mom.  I know for some these days are very difficult, especially for those of you who have lost your Mom.  I'm very lucky to have mine, but I did lose my Dad many years ago, far too young -- and because of that loss,  I can truly relate to how it feels when Father's Day is being celebrated and I don't have my Dad here --  it's' hard and my heart goes out to each and everyone who has lost a loved and cherished parent.

   This week I also was greatly touched by the kindness or two very special friends, from the craft world, who made this week extra special for me.   First, my thanks to Jenn Shurkus for hostessing a very sweet "Card Drive" for me.  I have received lots of gorgeous handmade cards these past two week and they all brightened my days.  They also came at a time, when I was feeling pretty lousy and a bit depressed, so the really helped to make me feel better, something is not always easy while you are fighting Cancer.    Thank you Jenn for doing this for me and for everyone to took the time to create and send me a card!   WOW!!

     A second huge shout-out to Connie Brooks,  another dear friend from the Craft Community, who sent me a huge box of goodies, as one of those amazing Random Acts of Kindness.   Her extreme generosity in putting together such a heart-warming gift, truly made me cry -- Happy Tears.   Her gift was so special and each and ever item was carefully selected and made especially for me.  It was by far, once of the most caring and loving gifts I have ever received, and all from the kindness of her heart!  Thank you again Connie, I can't truly begin to express how special you made me feel.

      Thanks to everyone who has touched my life with your kindness and love, you have all made each day a bit easier and that to is a gift that I'll forever cherish.

Sale update...

Hi, Just wanted everyone to know I have closed my "Goodies For Sale", page for a little bit.   I have extra medical tests that were added this week and need time to rest and heal.     All paid orders are shipped and the last three will ship as soon as the payments arrive.   IF for some reason you have not received your tracking details, please email me. Hoping to have it back up in another week or so and I'll be sure to post a blog update, when I do.
Thanks for your patience and understanding.  

 

Lots more new sale items....

Hi all,

  Happy May!   Just wanted to once again THANK YOU for all your purchases.   I added several new items on my Goodies for Sale  page this weekend and I also reduced prices on some of the items which have not sold.

    I accept only PayPal payments.  My apologies, but I simply do not get out to a bank and we do ALL our banking online.  Additionally, I am now shipping to the USA Only - I ship exclusively from my home and ship all orders via USPS First Class or Priority Mail.    Thanks for your understanding.

    The Cancer Battle continues and I'm still determined to beat this and will continue to hope for a Cure.  I was at the hospital this morning for my bi-weekly lab work and will have my next "Opdivo" treatment tomorrow.    My CT Scan (last week), was inconclusive, so I'm now being booked for a MRI which will be done, "for me" under Anesthesia due to my extreme claustrophobia.   Hoping it will be done this week, so I can move forward. 

  Needless to say, it will be a busy week, so please bear with me, if it takes a bit longer than normal to respond to your emails.

    Thank you all so much for your continue support -- I have two rooms full of craft goodies to go through, and it's taking time!   If there are any particular items you are looking for, please feel free to email me.

New Goodies for sale.....

Hi everyone,

   After a much-needed break, I am happy to say that I listed several new items on my Goodies for Sale  page today.  I also reduced prices on some of the times which have not sold.   NOTE:  I accept only PayPal payments.  My apologies, but I simply do not get out to a bank and we do ALL our banking online.  Additionally, I am now shipping to the USA Only - I ship exclusively from my home and ship all order via USPS First Class or Priority Mail.    Thanks for your understanding.

   Once again, I want to thank everyone who has make purchases and I sincerely hope everyone has been happy with their orders.  To date, all orders are now shipped and have been received.

   I'm still continuing my Cancer battle and will be back at the hospital again on Monday, for an updated Brain CT (always a bit stressful), and then will meet with my Oncologist on Tuesday to review the results and have my lab work for my next "Opdivo" treatment currently scheduled for Wednesday.  Needless to say, it will be a busy week next week, so please bear with me, if it takes a bit longer than normal to respond to your emails.

    Thank you all so much for your continue support -- I have two rooms full of craft goodies to go through, and it's taking time!   If there are any particular items you are looking for, please feel free to email me.

Kristyn Alyssa

It's almost impossible to believe that 25 years has passed since the day I lost my Infant Daughter!     In Loving Memory Kristyn Alyssa Haines April 19, 1991  

  Forever and ever in my Heart!  

I am taking.....

.....a much needed little break to continue with my Cancer Battle.  

   

    This is my treatment week and I need to put all my energy into going through it again and thn resting up for the next round.    I have my 9th Opdivo Treatment tomorrow and each treatment is becoming a bit more exhausting, which is very typical.   

 

    I also have a very special birthday this weekend -- My son Alex, turns 24 and I hope to have extra time with him and Acacia.  

    My sincere THANKS to everyone who has been shopping on my "Goodies For Sale" page, which I have now taken offline during this break.  ALL orders are currently shipped and the vast majority have already been received.   If you have any concerns or questions on your most recent order, please email me, but know it may take me an extra day to write back.

     Have a wonderful week and see you all again soon!!

...and I'm back....

...happily again with some brand new cards to share!   All of these were inspired by some of my favorite challenges.

I'll start with my first card which I created the current challenge over at Cas(E) this Sketch, Challenge # 167.

 

 

   I used my Hero Arts Ombre inks to create the pretty pinky/orange background and then using a simple  a label die cut out the three strips and added on the Love die sentiment which is from Simon Says Stamp.

   Keeping in with using more of my favorite Hero Arts goodies, I created this card on a Water colored background for the current "Watercolor Challenge over at the a2z Scrapbooking blog.   This pretty floral "Mum" die cut is from Hero Arts and as is the "thanks" sentiment.  

  My next two cards feature a gorgeous new Stamp Set, called "Spring Flowers", a new favorite this is one of the latest Simon Says Stamp exclusives.   My first card was created for the current "Spring" themed challenge that SSS is hosting over at the Flickr Group.   This card was colored in my favorite pink and purple Copic colors and then coated with a layer of sparkle, using a Wink of Stella marker.

 

  Using the same stamps, but with new colors, I then created this card, which will be submitted to this month's "Spring Fling" challenge over that the "Love Handmade Cards Group", also on Flickr.

 

 

   And that is it for today!   I am very happy to be having a wonderful good day and hubby and I are now going to get ready to go out for a late lunch/early dinner.  It's going to be so nice to get out the house a little bit!  YAY!!

   Thanks once again to everyone who has been shopping my Craft "Goodies For Sale" page.   As of this morning, all orders are now shipped and I also updated the store with some nice products!!    Hope you all have a wonderful weekend....