Surfacing...

Yes, I know - it's been awhile.

And just when I had resolved to be a better blogger, LIFE came along and got in the way...

Where to start?

As some of you know The Mice President (a.k.a. my husband John), has been dealing with quite a few health issues the last few years; congestive heart failure, lymphoma, and COPD to name the top three, but there have been others as well. He amazes me with both his positive attitude and his resilience - so much so that I often forget how many challenges he's facing.

A few weeks ago it was his heart, which was beating dangerously fast and resulted in a two day hospital stay and another cardioversion (where they shock the heart back into rhythm), and just a few days after that, he was back at the same hospital with severe breathing problems. His COPD is very advanced now, and with each hospitalization, we're learning to cope with a new normal. I'm happy to report he's home now, but also dealing with diabetes, which was brought on by some of the meds.

Soooooooo.....that's where I've been; running between the hospital, home, caring for the pets, trying to get some painting in, and generally stressing over his progress, and my ability to juggle everything. Most days I do OK.  

Knit Night at The Lancaster Yarn Shop has been a sanity-saver, and I have a new project to show for all that time at the hospital (my first attempt at lace knitting)...

 Painting was on hold for awhile, but has now resumed with a vengeance as I try to play catch-up with both commissions and bill paying. I painted this Innkeeper's sign today, and as of typing this, it's available in the Etsy shop...

 And a few days ago I completed this Kitty Cat themed Wheel of the Year (now sold, but I am accepting orders for similar pieces)...

A huge thank-you to everyone who's been so kind through this whole process - friends and family, and also those I only know on Faceboook; artists and collectors, who've offered up prayers and sent good wishes and positive energy our way.

We're taking it one day at a time, one step at a time, and remembering that despite the challenges, we are truly blessed.

I don't expect anyone to believe this, but I WILL be back with an update sooner this time, I promise...

In the meantime, it's back to the work table, where there's a Fairy Garden sign calling my name. ;)

Much love,
♥ Carolee

P.S. On a completely unrelated subject, *LOVE WINS!!!* How awesome is that?!? ;)