More Fun Than You Can Imagine!

(samples of a student's painting, they never painting before. Amazing!)

The Painting Parties last between 2 hrs. and 3 hrs. depending on which price you paid. For $25/person you get 2 hrs. for $35/person you get 3 hrs. Each individual is set up with their own canvas, table easel, paints, brushes, cup of water (to wash out your paints/brushes) paper towels, apron so you don't get paint on your self, and for $10 extra I can bring in an extra table. I bring in a finished painting but you have a blank canvas where I will show you step by step directions on how to begin, fill in, shade and highlight your painting. HONESTLY - you don't need to know how to paint. Just be flexible, forgiving and fun! It's just paint. And the whole idea is to go outside of your comfort zone and enjoy yourself! That's it!

The best part...instead of going to a studio...I COME TO YOUR HOUSE! Invite your neighbors, friends, family.

You provide the appetizers and drinks - I provide the tools, instruction and entertainment! Most classes are provided in the evening on Friday nights, but I do have openings on Monday and Wednesday nights. You can start the painting party as early as 5:00 or as late as 7:00. Best times are 6:00-8:00 p.m./6:30-8:30 p.m.


If the request come more and more to have a party in the morning, then we will provide that for you. Right now Saturday & Sundays are reserved for family and we appreciate your understanding. But again if the need gets greater I will be looking into offering the parties on Saturday morning.

"Corks & Brushes" Booking Calendar!

ARTwalk coming up next weekend! Save the Date: August 5th!

God has truly blessed me...

I can not believe how busy I have gotten since we got back from our cruise. I've been really paniced about bills and money. One going to college and two going into braces. Yikes! All of a sudden I have three huge murals going on and two really major design/marketing jobs going on, PLUS I'm trying to get an interview for a graphic design job. WOW! Can I possibly take on anymore? Probably....You see, I'm a JESUS Freak! That's right. I LOVE being busy. And God knows it. Yes, I'm tired. But the Lord has been so good to me - getting me all this work.
I was telling a friend of one of my clients today. I probably don't charge enough for my murals and I know I donate a lot of my services as a designer away too often, but IF I don't feel that I'm being taken advantage of, this is not mine to charge..this is God's gift to me. He has blessed me with beautiful children and a good roof over my head. My marriage has had it's challenges...but I do have a husband that has provided us with MORE than what we need. Yes I would love to have a 9-5 job and not all the little jobs that sometimes take up more time than what kind of pay I receive and YES the Lord wants me to be smart about my gift...everything I do is a life lesson. I have been doing more in marketing than I ever thought I would do. PLUS I've been asked to do some painting parties. YEAH!!!! Those are fun. An adventure that I would love to make more full-time if possible. Here are some of the projects I've been working on. If you like what you see - please pass my name onto anyone that you think would need my services. I'm always eager to take on new challenges and new clients. I love painting murals, I love designing logos and I love that God has given me this gift.

God Is Good!

July is here already? Summer? What Summer?

I know I feel like I'm repeating myself but wow this summer is flying by. Just got back from the Bahamas with my kids and wow...how awesome was that. I feel so blessed to be able to have had the chance to do this with my kids. They loved it! Alos, I'm actually swamped with major work. Not big buckes, but keeping busy. A couple murals and logo developments going on.And who would have thought I would be doing so much marketing. Although I don't have a degree in marketing I truly feel that with my experience with all the fundraising I've done and community projects I've got going on...yeah, I'm a great marketing/PR person. I LOVE people (for the most part) HA. But I do especially the hard working small business people - trying so hard to make a better life for themselves and for the their family. I met a new business owner this week. Gigi is her nickname and she has to be the most beautiful woman I've had the pleasure of meeting ever! She is originally from Egypt which I think is soooooo coooool. Those that have such a culture is so fasinating and I feel so fortunate to meeting and learn from. What an experience and opportunity. As I told Gigi..."Life is short - live it to the fullest" I NEVER want to look back and say, boy I wish I would have met her. OR I wish I would have talked to them or moved on that opportunity. So I fall on my face...I'll do it many more times in my life and so what. I tried. I made the jump and I at least can say...I took the chance...DID YOU?

First Painting Party and it went GREAT!!!

First of all a BIG THANK YOU to all that came to the first Painting Party, "Corks & Brushes". You guys rocked! Only a couple of people in the class of 10 had painting experience, so I was overwhelmed how well everyone did for not painting before. The subject I choose for the first painting party was extremely hard (what was I thinking) so I realized now with the patience of everyone that I need to lighten up the load. I may conduct classes for those more serious painters later in the fall - but for now I really want to concentrate on just having FUN! The next class has not been determined as I'm in the works of working something out with The Loft on 14th in Concord on a permanent basis. But I do know the next subject will be a very easy piece, called "Landscaped".

This piece will be even simplified some more at the party.
The soul purpose of the class is to build new friendships and unite with others that love to have a good glass on wine great food and paint just for fun with new friends, old friends and family. As soon as my discussion and details are finalized with The Loft, I will then post a calendar with party dates. I'm telling you this is something for everyone! Couples, Baby Shower, Bridal Shower, Family Get-Togethers, Girls' Night Out!, Birthday Parites for ANY age, and TEAM building for any sized company. I can't explain how much fun this is. Parties are to last two hours - our first party we had so much fun we ended up staying 3 hrs. Ooops! I was worn out to tell you the truth but apart of that was because the subject was a bit too detailed. Lesson learned. Still I got a lot of positive feedback which was great! Well until next time. I wish everyone a safe and blessed weekend. Next week we will be on vacation...hoping to post photos while we are aways but not sure if I will get to. I've been told it's a vacation and no internet is allowed ;) we'll see...

New Sketches for a Safari Themed Room

Just a couple of sketch of a mural I'm bidding on for a young family. Large playroom with small budget. But that is what I love about this job. Helping families that are true, out.

They are also wanting to do a dinning room mural. Here are the ideas I gave them on that.

Adding SIMPLE Receipts from KRaFt

If your kids are like mine. They are picky, picky, picky. It can drive a busy mother crazy. But with my blog i've decided to look up some easy receipts for us moms that like simple. Enjoy!

WHAT YOU NEED:
1 to 1-1/4 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-1/2 to 2-inch pieces
1 pkt. SHAKE 'N BAKE Extra Crispy Seasoned Coating Mix
2 cups KRAFT Cheddar Cheese Cubes
1-1/2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 can (8 oz.) pineapple chunks
12 (9-inch) wooden skewers

Still Can't Breath...but I'm trying.

So graduation has come and gone, then we had awards to attend, family to send on their way. And even though this is the first day of nothing to do. I feel like I'm so behind on my artwork and getting ready for the painting party this Friday called "Corks & Brushes". I'm excited but feel very unprepared. But yet the show must go on. So tomorrow I have a ton of painting to do and trying to get some new cards up and running to submit to some card companies. One "to do" check offs that I desperately need to do. And yet I can't stop thinking about my daughter off to celebrate with friends before they all go off to college. I'm a reck worrying about her and I thought I would be fine. I guess once a parent always a parent no matter what your age. NOW, I know what my mom was talking about. Thank goodness we talk everyday since she left, but still. You worry. Hopefully working like crazy to get caught up will help me forget about my nerves...ok this typing these thoughts is not helping at all so I truly need to get off this subject right aways.
Well I'm going to emphasis that again this Friday night, June 17th I will be conducting my first Painting Party called "Corks & Brushes" and I'm very excited. 7:00 p.m. til 9:00 p.m. The cost is $25/person and includes 2 hours of fun instructional time, a completed canvas to take home 11 x 14, one glass of wine/or other beverage and appetizers for 12. You can't find anything like that around this Cabarrus County that will offer anything less. So come out. You MUST REGISTER thought before the party date, but do not have to pay until the day of class. So no excuses get a sitter and come out with the hubby, friend or relative...or even a co-worker. You will not be disappointed.

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY:
"The Lord your God will bless you in all your harvest and in all the work of yor hands, and your joy will e complete"
- Deuteronomy 16:15

It's FINALLY HERE! JUNE....oh my! Now what?

I just can't believe it my daughter is graduating high school where did the time go? We've been cleaning for weeks and planning for months this party this Saturday and what happens? We are all sick. Can you believe it? Crazy. But through it all, I find myself just in awh of what my daughter has accomplished through the years. Been putting together a book. When I find my camera (ha) I will take some pictures of it and show you. I just can't believe how much she has grown through the last few years. We are of course so proud that she will be attending Appalachian State University with a track scholarship. It's amazing. She has already started her schedule of running. She only got two weeks off from high school track and now into college cross country.

Mind you, she is only on the B team for cross country because she was signed on for track but still the schedule is grueling. An eye opener for her of what is expected and self control is needed for college. But I'm not too worried about her. Give me time now to focus on her little younger brothers. There is five years between her and the next one then the boys are 13 months apart. That I tell you is another adventure of it's self. They have a love/hate relationship but boys are more physical with each other. So I usually have to get the ref shirt out and a whistle to separate them then they are fine. Can be exhausting at times and yet hilarious. Well enough about that.

FEATURED ARTIST:

PICTURE4HOME

Every month I will be posting about a new ARTIST that I have found on etsy.com. I love this photographer. She is new to etsy and so I want to welcome her to our community. I love the warmth she delivers in her photography. And who can not decorate with flowers. Flowers are a very simple and versitile way of decorating any wall, self, or simply place the card in a frame and give it as a gift. Stop by her shop and tell her Decorative Decisions sent you. Networking right now is really important to us artists going in business for ourselves. So show your support. Oh and I want to leave you with this passage:

WHAT IS YOUR PRAYER REQUEST TODAY?
"Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." -JESUS in Mark 11:24

UPDATE ON THE JUNE GIVE-A-WAY!

Fill out the form and you can be a lucky winner of a beautiful Personalized Family Tree OR A Scripture Tree your choice when you win. Each one is created on high quality photo enhanced paper for bright colors and details. These are prints valued at $15.00 each. The size is 8 x 10. Here is a sample.

(NOTE: Click on the Heading to receive the form)
I've decided to simplify. All you have to do is fill out the very short form. Name, email that's about it. And you can win one FREE print, you can choose which one you want. The FIRST person that registers will win and then another one will be announced at the end of June. So submit your info TODAY! You could win!

Summer is right around the corner....what are your plans?

There are some many things I had planned for my blog this year that I didn't get to do. So once again I'm going to try again this summer to get it together and work on getting information out to my readers and new and upcoming ideas. I truly want to get better at showcasing other blogs and other websites - since networking is really the key to any business growth. So to start off early before June is even here. Here is my first featured artist.

FEATURED ARTIST:
I'd like to share my first find. Her name is Laura and she has a wonderful blog. Laura also has a etsy.com shop so go check her out! Great stuff and reasonable prices. Tell her Teresa says "HI".
Doodle Boop Designs

Also check out this next week as I'm doing a June Contest. A FREE Personalized Family Tree Print or a FREE Scripture Tree Print. (Valued at $15.00- your choice) The winner will be choosen of two ways. One winner will be the 100th registered online submission and the second winner will from a written contest. "What is Your Purpose In Life" Just three to five sentences is all you need. And there is no age restrictions. Any age or gender can enter. I really want this written contest to be a reflection on ourselves and hopefully help us to conquer that purpose more forcefully.

I'll be posting this contest on my blog, facebook, website (still in the works) and my etsy shop too! So make sure you check in at least weekly to see where you might be at.

"Corks & Brushes" Registration Form

CORKS & BRUSHES!

CORKS & BRUSHES:A painting party for anyone who wants to have fun. I supply the easels, canvas, paint & brushes. You just come and have a good time with friends and/or family. NOW ONLY $25/person for a two hr. party. For our first one Frankie & Louie's will supply the appetizers for a group of 12. One glass of wine or other beverage of your choice and of course the whole reason for the party is to be able to take your masterpiece home that night. You don't have to know how to paint, just an open mind to have fun! Sign up TODAY!

Welcome to My Design Center!

Well painting has really come to a stand still which is fine. I'm not a stranger to re-inventing myself. I realize now how I need to organize my time to dedicate to not only etsy items but to my blog as a designer/artist with creative ways to get my work out there.
Just recently I created a logo sheet that I dropped off at the local coffee shop and some of my other frequent visited businesses. I'm in the works of creating a brochure for Wedding Invitations for a local bake shop that does a lot of wedding cakes.
I notice as an artist and a mom, I just can't quite. It's not fair to myself nor my family.
Here are some recent logos I've been working on.

This design actually won for a t-shirt contest for the run in PA. I was really excited and not that I win any money (which Lord knows I need) but I will get a free t-shirt. I can always use a FREE t-shirt. So I'm still happy. :)
Here are some other designs I"m working on...

And finally this design is being placed in a contest for a Convenience Store in another state.

Happy Mother's Day!

This May what would be more perfect than to give someone you love (yes this means mom, grandma, or your favorite aunt) a personalized tree illustration. This 8 1/2" x 11" painting is so beautiful you will not regret purchasing it. All bases of trees are brown. WIth the choice of up to 8 names plus the last name. You can list your pets if you want too. Other options is to have a favorite quote or scripture placed in the bark instead of names. This way it can be used anywhere in the house. You get up to three color to choose from for the leaves or if you prefer I will paint graphic flowers for you instead of the leaves. Go to my etsy shop so you can see some samples.

www.decorativedecisions.etsy.com

Thank you so much for all the support I've recieved this year. I look forward to building the business not only with my murals but decor ideas for your home.

Blessings-
Teresa

Finally into April, and it's almost over...this has got to be one of the shorter months! Wow!

March seems so long and this month has just flown. Wow- where as the year gone? As I'm home this week with my kids for spring break it gives me a chance to breath. Which is so nice. I felt like I've been just going and going like millions of other families.
One graduating in June, and two still in middle school but for not long. One getting braces and one wanting to get really active in sports. Yikes.
My daughter being a super athlete I was kind of hoping to get a break with my boys...they like their Playstation 3 games and they are not much for going outside. But just this past week my younger son has been suffering from some major anxiety. Found out he really is putting the pressure on himself. He wants to get those good grades, be popular, and be that super athlete. But wow in order NOW to be good in sports these parents are starting their kids out when they are 2 years. old for crying out loud. My poor kid is 12.
I really think we as a society expect way to much (makes me wonder if some parents are trying to live their lives through their kids...hum) getting good grades, extra activities and clubs within the schools, sports, special clubs outside of school and more (to even be consider for a college). We all want our children to do their best there is no doubt about that. But when is too much enough?
I'm glad I pushed my daughter into cross country in the charter school during her middle school years. They didn't have much many sports offered then and I liked to run as a kid I wanted to find out if she did too - came to be she liked it and was great at it. Now this beautiful child of mine is going to be running for Appalachian State University. We are very proud of her.
But school was hard. With all these mult-tasking they expect from our kids these days - wow, no wonder these poor kids are having anxiety attackes or getting sick too, they are worn down. Grades do need to come first. But you want your children to enjoy being a kid too. Our society pushes our kids to think and adults for that matter. Doing everything measures who you are. Being the best at everything measures who you are...

...This Easter Sunday at UC Fellowship, David showed us through scripture that Jesus failed many times. And because of those failures he is who he is. It is all in God's plan.
We are not meant to be perfect. That is God and God only. But through Christ we can be who we are...and know no matter what, whether we win or loose...that Christ still accepts us as we are. To me that is more important than my child winning a race or getting all A's and being the top of his class.
I love my children and as long as they are trying to work hard at somthing. That's all I care about. So they don't play sports...no big whoop. As I tell my kids. You either be a nerd and own your own company or you be nice to the nerds because you will one day be working for them.

Blessings-

March has got to be the Longest Month ever!

Well, it's been a while since I've written anything. Trying so hard to get into a routine here at the house, but I find with this crazy weather it can be very difficult for me. I keep telling myself I will paint one painting every day. That hasn't worked out too well. I find that if I'm not trying to find a part-time job online I'm doing laundry, straightening up the living room, cleaning a closet, or even trying to organize a mess in every corner of this house.

So I now know that I HAVE to make myself a "To Do" list. If I can treat my house as a business and my working on paintings is from 9-1 then I have plenty of time to do laundry and so forth.
Today is not the day it is happening as Im writing here on my blog and feeling very guilty that I did not get what I wanted accomplished...like many days. Maybe my husband is right maybe I do have ADD. No, I know it's AAADD. If I can find that youtube video I will post it. This video is so much me it's not funny. Actually it's not - makes me kind of depressed.

So I went to an interview yesturday with a recruiting office to help me find a job. Don't get me wrong I will always want to paint murals first, but the business is so up and down still with the economy. I figure if I can find something with more consistancy then I can still paint on canvas like I still enjoy. The reality of it is that I have a college bound daughter and things are not getting cheaper. With gas and groceries, it's not wonder we are not all living in boxes. It's very scarey.

But it wasn't until I meet with the very young lady asking me questions in regards to what kind of job I wanted to find. Wow. Am I a lost soul. I don't even know what I"m good at. I've been out of the workforce for so long I have no experience for marketing, even sales you name it which doesn't leave you much available when it comes to wanting a so called career.

Then there is the guilt I have about my boys in middle school. They are not doing so well and so I have to keep up on them once a week. My youngest gets sick a lot due to stress, which is very frustrated and a helpless feeling I don't like at all. With my crohn's it makes me wonder if he has it too, then I feel guilty for not taking him into a specialist...but going in for something your not sure about now with one income - hurts the pocketbook and then puts added stress on everyone as a whole.

Oh - I pray for that little guy. He really gets stressed out but holds it in. Not good. Can't get him to talk with anyone either. So of course I keep wanting to get into the school system in hopes that I would be able to be near him if he needs help or not. I'm such a mother...wow what do I tell others...oh yeah, cut the cord lady, cut the cord. I need to take my advise. :)

Hate to change the subject but WOW- we need to go in a more positive direction here.So as I change the subject here hang in there. April 8th I'm conducting Harrisburg's first Art Walk, from 6-9 p.m. with live music and great artists from the area. Hope you can come out and enjoy it with us. My plan is to have these Art Walks the first and last Friday of every month.
I was hoping for at least 20 artists but we only have around 10 right now. Not great, but not bad. I keep telling myself it's the first one girl...hang in there.

Here is more information about it, which reminds me I need to notify more folks in regards to the show. So for now hope you enjoy the rest of your week and stay safe.

Blessings,
T

Castles & Gardens

My client just emailed me these photos they took before they left for Japan. Yep, they are in Japan of all places. But they are all right and all safe. Apparently they were 500 miles from the distruction and didn't feel a thing.

On a more positive note: I can not express the joy I had painting these two murals. This family was so precious. Far and few do I find clients that are very humble in their surroundings and for that I'm so thankful. Katie Tracy my client has the most precious and may I say precious again little girls! Here are some photos. Thank you again Tracy Family for giving me the honor to paint in your beautiful home.

Every day seems to have it's challenges...

So thought the weekend was going to be fun. But thought wrong. Got hit was some bad news Friday and even though I knew deep down it was coming, some of my actions caused a reaction to cause the news I knew was coming to be final.
So...what next? Just live day to day as I always do and deal with the day as it happens and comes at me. Wow re-reading this, and to a total stranger I'm sure this makes no sense. For those of me that know what I'm going or as some would say, blabbling about. If that is the correct word. Anywho...this whole topic is kind of bumming me so I'm going to try to think of something more positive.

Yes...I have an Art Walk coming up in April. April 8th/Friday Night at 6-9p.m. at the Town Center. Very excited. Got entertainment for the night thanks to Rocky River Coffee Company. And have several businesses participating in it. So far only 8 artists. But I have this coming week off from painting any murals because I needed to go to schools and advertise the Walk. Going to high schools and inviting inspiring artists to join us professionals.

Oh, my client that I just finished the castle and garden mural for left for Japan last week (mon.) and then that earthquake hit them. Thank the Lord, she posted on her facebook that they were safe and 500 miles from the incident and wanted us to pray for everyone - well of course. It is such a mess over there. And even though I'm going through what I am going through right now. I will survive. But there are some there that haven't and won't and are really struggling to try to get their life back let alone see everything they ever owned or even loved destroyed. It's so sad. So please take a moment today to pray for those that are over there in Japan.

Well my lovelies, it's late and I need to get to bed. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day. Be thankful for every day you and I are given.

Blessings-Teresa

Stronger by Mandisa (From the Upcoming Album "What If We Were Real")

Please support me in the walk for a cure!

Good morning, today being Monday and a new day to a new week I wanted to throw out there the support that I need to help us find a cure for crohn's. I've been suffering from crohn's for over six year. Been in remission for a year until a month ago, when I not only had a flair up, but a set back. My crohn's is getting more aggressive, hitting me faster and more severely. Not only to I suffer from the good ole' standard diahreaha but also I throw up. I get so dhydrated that they can't even get fluids in me fast enough. They had a hard time find a good vein and ended up giving two bags of fluids. When I do get a flare up I take Remicade. It's an IV I have to take for three hours. It basically shuts down my immune system since that is what is making me sick. My immune system thinks there is something wrong with my body so it attacks it. That is crohn's it's an auto immune disease and it is very serious. Many folks including my own family don't understand it since they don't physically see anything wrong with me. It's a lot like your faith. If you don't see Him, you don't bellieve it. Very sad if you think about it.

For me it's been my faith that carries me through this difficult life we all live. Last week was the most depressing week for some reason. I can't even explain it. I'm painting which I love and the jobs are coming in which I"M SO THANKFUL for, and even though I thank our Saviour, I'm still unfortantley human and get frustrated and discourage with the daily challenges that Satin will put in front of me wanting me to break my trust and love for Christ.
And like always he is like a monkey on your back that won't give up. I've noticed, that when I get frustrated I sight the Lord's Prayer. It seems to give me peace and clear the air for me. I've felt like a weight on me...and I need our Lord more than ever now.

Lately our family is being challenged by our faith. You see my boys and I we believe and even though my daughter and husband say they believe the don't really. They keep trying to live their lives they want to not how God wants them too, and it breaks my heart. I keep praying that they will trust in God...but I haven't seen it yet. They sometimes even make comments about, "oh, you think you are so perfect because you think you are a better Christian than everyone else"...that my friends is Satin covering their hearts wanting to break me down. I just walk away and say...you know with Christ I am a better person, not better than anyone else, but a better person for trusting in Him"...you should try it.

It's so hard when Satin finds a loop hole in a family to tear it apart. And that is what he is doing to my husband and me. See my husband measures your life by money. Although I try hard to balance it all, I fall a lot. But I try hard not to be careless with the finanaces...but to my husband it is never good enough. Even when I was working in the cafeteria...it wasn't thank you for doing that, it was "you don't contribute to the family" - again Satin. And they don't see it.

Please pray for our family. While Satin is attaching hearts everywhere we need to say the "Lord's Prayers" and trust in Christ. Because with Christ we can smack down Satin and get rid of him. Withouth Christ our struggles will get bigger and more difficult.

"Nothing is impossible with Christ" - Luke 37:1

First of Four Murals This Month...

Trying to get caught up...

I'm so happy to say I finished one of four murals this month. It came out so colorful, and the little girl loved it. She is so precious. This little joy of red hair said she wanted to be a painter when she grows up. Awhhhh! What a sweety! I'll be painter her little sister's room next! Garden theme. Photo below. As soon as I get photos I will post them. I'm hoping to get some photos back on another room I painter two months ago. Oh and I realized I never posted photos of the mural I did for The Goddard School in Waxhaw. (I'm never shure what the correct spelling is on that down)
Trying to get back to running, but it's been a struggle. Just don't have the energy. When I went to the eye doctor they said my white cells are getting more and more aggressive, which is not exactly what I wanted to hear. They are recommending I get Remicade treatments every four weeks instead of six weeks. So I've decided to look into other methods of treatment. First going back on MoniVie and then looking into herbal treatments too. Keep me in your prayers...along with many other folks that are suffering from Crohn's disease. It has been attacking more of our children more and more every years.
Trying to go to the walk this year, but haven't confirmed it yeat. Taryn has Nationals Indoor Track in March and trying to get all caught up with murals...just need more hours in the day.
I've noticed I'm getting a bit more behind on my magnet lids and chalk jars so I'm needing to get them done today if possible. Working on some new ideas of the magnet lids and still trying to get the note cards and calendars printed. Yikes!

What a rough past two weeks! Crohn's kicked my hiney!

First I want to thank all my clients for being soooooo patient. My crohn's flaired up after a year in remission. It was unbelievable, how fast it hit me this time. The doctor said it will happen like that. Every time I get a flair up, it will hit faster and faster each time. This time last week I was bed ridden for four days. Received my Remicade treatment on a Wed. by Sunday/Monday I was feeling a bit better. They had a hard time find a vain this time too. That hurt. Ouch! Then gave me two bags of fluids cuz I was dry to say the least. Remicade is an IV that I receive every six weeks. Crohn's is an auto-immune disease and basically by white cells attack my body making me sick with the treatment, similar to chemo- it shuts down my immune system so my white cells will stop attacking me making me so ill. This time I was not only throwing up water...yes I could not even drink water. I had diahreaha. WOW! Let me say if you ever want to loose a lot a weight in a short period of time and can handle the pain (which is close to having someone stab you) then go for Crohn's. This disease has literally landed many in the hospital and some have died. It's very serious and yet four days being in bed...my husband says, "So, are you sick or what?" Gotta love 'em otherwise I think we would kill them. Well at least take a pillow to the face.

So my latest work for a client in Waxhaw...Waxsaw? Not sure how to spell that one, should look it up shouldn't it. Well anyways I'm very excited about it. Castle & Horse Theme and Garden Theme. Can't wait to start next week. Also for the big town of Harrisburg, NC I'm conducting it's first ARTwalk in April to help showcase us artsist that the county doesn't even know is around. I'm hoping it will be a huge success so we can have them twice a month. The businesses around here is awesome and very willing to do this. Can't wail. Well lots on my plate. Murals and finishing canvas artwork plus trying to get my notecards and calendars set up on my etsy shop. Which is kind of on the back burner right now until April.

Well hope everyone is doing great and check out my facebook page...just type in Decorative Decisions or my name Teresa Stern and check out my portfolio on there. And you can always email me with questions...questions are FREE!

Blessings-
Teresa

Dr. Seuss Mural finished photos

Well the week came and went. This weekend I had so much planned to get done but with my crohn's acting up it's been a rough week and this weekend the pain pills are starting to knock me out. But I wanted to take a moment to show my finished murals that had a Dr. Seuss theme. I truly feel blessed for all the work that is coming my way...just was wishing I felt better, but I get treatment on this Wednesday so hopefully that will knock the crohn's down a bit so I can continue to paint. Don't get me wrong, I am truly thankful still. I love painting murals! So here she is...

Praying that Sunday will be a bit easier so that I can finish a ton of notecards I have designed up and finish the calendars that I am still working on, not quite happy with the designs I have for those, so still working on ideas. Plus just met with another client and I'm really excited about starting on sketch ideas for the two kids' rooms for that project. WOW...not enough hours in the day? Now wishing I was more of a morning person. Oh and trying to clean my studio area, aka the dinning room. My husband is a bit frustrated on how it looks so I really should clean that up and move the studio upstairs.
Looked into a building/room to rent for a studio to make me more dedicated. It's really easy to get distracted when you work out of your home. Just not sure I can swing the rent. Without the steady income...it's really a chance to take and with the economy still bad I know my husband would not approve. :(
Valentine Designs I'm working on...

Dr. Seuss Mural in the Making this Week!

So last week and this week seems to have blended together, with sick children, jobs ahead of me and my crohn's in start-up I feel more disorganized than ever. And today Wed, 1/26/11, is raining here in the Carolinas and I think I'm bi-polor cuz this rain is making me want to get my pjs on and crawl back in bed. However my life is in disarray, life goes on and you we manage to survive another day. This week I started a mural...Dr. Seuss. I normally don't do known characters but the kids are so young they will have so much time to grow into this and another side it's very modern with bright colors and very loose art.

I bought some really nice brushes for the first time and WOW, what a difference. These brushes have given a whole nothing state of confidence when it comes to outlining my artwork. I'm able to get nice clean lines and I LOVE IT! The bad thing I've used more acrylic paints and not latex so I'm going to have to put in two extra hours just coating all the artwork so the little ones don't try to take a wash cloth and erase the artwork. (I've had that happen on my first mural...nightmare)

Kid are taking SAT, I'm finishing my mural today and hoping to get Remicade by the end of the week. Then next week I have a faux painting job, and on to another mural with a former Goddard School I had done before five years ago.

I'm going to post some of the drawings I did for some of my clients so you can see what I present to them and then I will show the final pieces to you so you can see how it turned out.

I praise God even through my pain this week because I love painting in homes...there is nothing I'd rather do. Last year there were no jobs coming my way and so I found myself working in a cafeteria as the washroom attendant. Don't get me wrong the hours were perfect for a mom and the pay wasn't as bad if you could make it the first six month. But for a creative person, I just felt so drained when I came home. God gave me two huge jobs and I though, yes...my prayers have been answered. Then one of the jobs canceled and let's say Christmas was a struggle. Then after a lot of job applications, a lot of rejections and a lot of crying at night...these jobs came in. But I found I have been trying to get the family to go to church again and my praying for the little things...praising him, thank him directly on something, and asking for help it seems to bring good things in the end. Also realizing that God has the ultimate plan. I'm not the one that is in total control... he has the big map not me.

Well here are a few of the sketches...Let me know what you think would love to hear from you.
www.facebook.com/decorativedecisions
www.decorativedecisions.yolasite.com
tstern1@carolina.rr.com

Oh- and working on a give-a-way...I think this might help with promoting my stuff. Can't wait to get all of this together, just not at a 100% yet. So some days are a bit slower than others. But keep posted and thank you so much for following my blog.

Trying So Hard.

This week has been very challenging. One child sick, another just called today and the nurse even said I might want to schedule an appointment for this child. I have four sketches to do, plus a personalized family tree - iye,yi! And here I am blogging with so much to do. Not making a lot of sense am I. That's the ADD kicking in.

So the notecards and calendars might not happen until this weekend. Yep, not getting organized this week has really killed me.

So again very short and just want to leave some thought for the day with some scripture. Hope it helps someone get through the week better than I am doing right now.


"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails" - Proverbs 19:21

Wow, another snow day...this wouldn't be happening if we were still in Iowa.

I can't believe Cabarrus County cancelled again? Wow, if we were still in Iowa our kids would be walking in this stuff to school. Our society has become so lazy. Sorry - just speaking the truth.

The good news, I'm going to be selling my items to a shop in town down Charlotte. I'll list their site here as soon as I can find it again. Needing to go out today to do some card stock finds. Been working on notecard designs and calendar designs. Hoping to put together some really neat stuff. Also needing to finish up some of my recycled items. Magnets and jars. I over 30 jars waiting for me to do something with. I did save some wine jars,...have ideas just haven't gotten to them yet.

I tell you these snow days are kind of getting me all out of wack. sleeping in is not good for us "all over the place" artists.

Also going to try to get a 3 mile run in today so I can get the blood flowing to the brain again. Been four days since I ran. Last run was 5 miles. Trying to get to 12 miles so I can do a 1/2 marathon in May. (Keep me in your prayers) LOL!

Well this is going to be very short today...need to workout, get working and cleaning on top of it all. Whoohoo! I'm excited!!!

Have a wonderful day and be safe all.


Blessings,
Teresa

Snow, snow...go away, it was great but you really don't need to stay!

Wow...who would believe we got so much snow here in the carolinas...called family in Iowa and they have 16". Hubby back there snowmobiling with family...on vacation even after Xmas vacation for another week...poor guy, he has it so rough.
My boys didn't even go outside to enjoy it cuz it was too cold they said. It was pretty cold. My daughter although did go out and enjoy it with her boyfriend...came back with some war scares though, from falling off the sled that was being dragged behind a four wheeler. Probably not too safe, but hey they had fun and no serious injuries.
And again we are getting sleet yet tonight at 10:00 p.m. and forecast for freezing temps. Soooo...yes, the county called and no school again Tuesday. Please pray for the mama. I have a ton of stuff I wanted to do this week and haven't gotten anything done. Been more of a referee more than anything. Ei-yi-yi.
Wow...just listening to the sleet hitting the window right now. Going to be a yucky day tomorrow.
Well, I know a ton of folks have been hit with this winter storm, hopefully everyone is staying safe and warm and cozy with family or friends.

Until tomorrow...I'm kind of stuff with what else to say, since I wasn't able to research any projects for Valentines on the computer and I'm actually exhausted right now from keeping the boys from killing each other I'll have to get up early and work on it tomorrow. Wish me luck?

:)Blessings

Friday is Finally Here!

Thank God it's Friday...I don't know about you, but this was a very long week and yet I didn't accomplish a thing. Been very torn between creating paintings and finding a part-time job. Of course I would love if the painting business picked up and I could do this full time, but the economy is still not cooperating and although the jobs are coming in very slowly...I have a teenager on her way to college and major medical bills from my remicade treatments. Over $2,000.00 to be exact. Ouch!

You see last year I was working as a cafeteria washroom attendant for a year at a high school part-time. Hours were great 9:30 - 1:30 so I still had my afternoon free to do housework, grocery shopping and occasionally painting. But working in the washroom was very physical and so I became very very tired after work and so the truth be known I didn't get a whole lot accomplished after work.

For those that don't know my history I have Crohn's disease.

What is crohn's...I'm glad you asked. :) Crohn's is an autoimmune disease. Our white cells help fight diseases in our body...mine attacks my body. For a reason unknown until I see Christ, my white cells attack my vision and my lower intestines. The cell activity attack each other causing scare tissue in my vision. I've had two cataracts removed already and I'm only in my 40's. I have a detached retina in my right eye. I can only see 20% through my right eye, so when the cells act up causing scaring or a haze in my vision it is very difficult to drive, read and forget about getting around at night. I'm blind.

When the cells attack my colon, I become very ill. throwing up, diarrhea or constipation, extreme pain (like someone is taking a knife to my guts and just going from one end to the other) After an attack - I'm weak and usually have to rest for an hour or so. Straining with my vision makes me tired too. I've been fighting this battle for over 6 years now. Been on remicade for over 2 years and so far it's been putting my crohn's in remission. But lately with surgery for my right eye (taking the second cateract out) and not being able to get my remicade due to insurance issues I've been in a lot of pain.

Oh, and two years ago I had such a drastic attack that I developed rumatory arthritis...and so that flairs up when my crohn's is getting active. Meaning, I have joint pain.

In 2010 I decided I needed to start running again, hoping that I would just get healthier and wouldn't have to rely on the treatments. Some days are good, some days are bad. Usually when I get a good run in I have to rest two days. I would love to get to the stage of being able to run everyday.

When my oldest was in middle school I was an assistant coach in cross country and track. I loved it. It helped me take the focus off of my issues and focused on the kids. I love helping kids fine tune their running skills. Cross Country is a little family and many kids turn to that support that may not do well in other sports that are more competitive. It doesn't matter if you fast or not, EVERYONE supports you in cross country and I have such admiration for those kids that run in 90 degree weather. You won't see a football playing doing that. It's a sport that goes unrecognized in this country and so does track another sport very dear to my heart.

My daughter is a state champion and I'm so proud of her accomplishments. State! WOW...she's amazing to watch. Everyone can hear me I'll cheer for anyone if they play fair...you don't play fair then I'll yell at you too! When coaching they use to call me the bad cop. LOL. But I love those kids and they knew I would cheer for them anytime!

Now my daughter being a senior in high school she has many colleges looking at her which is awesome. But many of the athletes have asked me to come back to cheer them on. I have a spot on the trail...around the last 1/2 mile to encourage them to continue and pull through. They say they need it, and they love it. So I'll probably still be out there.

See...I was a runner too in high school and because of an injury I wasn't able to run my senior year. It stunk, cuz I was good. So I totally respect the sport in all aspects. Physically, mentally and emotionally.

My goal: 1/2 marathon before I'm 50. But for now...I have to call my doctor to get a steroid shot in my eye to help with the vision problem...rest and then call for an appointment for my remicade, cuz the pain is bad today. Insurance payment or not.
As the saying goes, "If the mama ain't happy, no one is happy"

Blessings