tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56155264482207166282024-03-13T18:41:06.773-04:00Sumpin Else Custom GiftsSumpin Else is a custom gift making company that specializes in creating one of a kind personalized and custom gifts for any occasion. We create anything from greeting cards, to invitations, to mini albums and photo frames. And much much more. Let Sumpin Else fill your gift giving needs today.
Birthday gifts
Wedding gifts
Birth Announcements
Greeting Cards
Vacation Frames
Sports Frames
Dance Frames
Cheerleading Frames
Mini Scrapbook albums
The possibilities are ENDLESS!SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-22536109214574610932010-08-08T10:53:00.002-04:002010-08-08T11:34:09.542-04:00The Other "C" WordThere are hurtful words in the English language that we fling at each other in anger, despair and even laziness when we do not take the time to find a more appropriate one. This post is not about the obvious it is about the other "C" word CANCER.<br /><br />Cancer is a word that until recently was in my vocabulary distantly. I could empathize but I could not fully relate, it had touched my life but never so completely. All that changed late in May when my Mother was diagnosed. Now it is as much a part of my life as waking, sleeping, breathing.<br /><br />The disease itself consumes the patient; the interventions to battle the disease consumes their lives. I support, listen, hand hold but find that it is not enough. I am still on the fringe trying to guide her through a maze that although I am familiar with, I can no longer navigate because I have lost perspective. I am no longer the healthcare provider, I am the daughter watching, waiting for results, hoping that all is going well, praying that she has the stamina to endure the ravages of not only the disease but of the "cure."<br /><br />Her spirits are good. She goes through the motions of the endless doctors' appointments, the chemotherapy, the outward "signs" that all is "ok." There are moments when she shares her inner thoughts, when she puts to words the struggle she is engaged in. Her thoughts are simply verbalized nothing fancy. My Mother does not deal in "fancy." Again I listen helpless but never hopeless.<br /><br />I love you Mom, you are not alone, we are all here with you and for you. I know we've taken this journey together before this is how you must have felt many years ago when it was you in my shoes. You did it then; we'll do it now.SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-58383937682732115102010-04-17T14:25:00.002-04:002010-04-17T18:02:32.818-04:00The Walk to Defeat ALSFor the past four years, every April I walk to support ALS. It began because of a corporate sponsorship and has blossomed into something I do to remember friends, patients, and staff who have succumbed to this devastating disease.<br /><br />During the weeks leading up to the walk there is always the fund raising and attention to details that keeps my mind occupied. The day of the walk and especially the walk itself is a different story. At those moments my mind is filled with those who have fallen to this disease. I see their faces, remember their hopes, and pray for the ones that are newly diagnosed.<br /><br />ALS is relentless and unforgiving. It knows no social or economic boundaries. It does not care what your ethnic background is or what you beliefs might be. ALS is an equal opportunity disease.<br /><br />There is little known about ALS and what has been recently discovered is mostly due to the fund raising efforts for research and care of the ALS Association. Nationwide the ALS Association continues to look for the cure while providing for the needs of those afflicted. The cost of one year of care for one ALS patient is $200,000. Do the math, it is mind boggling!<br /><br />ALS fund raising is not limited to once a year. You can donate at anytime to the ALS Association. No gift is too small or too great and every penny is deeply appreciated. To contribute to the ALS Association visit our <a href="http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/FloridaWalk?px=1607658&pg=personal&fr_id=6236">Team Page</a>, the <a href="https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/Donation2?idb=1682022258&df_id=2648&2648.donation=form1">Florida Chapter</a> (just click on either to go to a donate page) or visit your local chapter's webpage.<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-33831953767938765212010-02-28T18:19:00.012-05:002010-02-28T19:02:48.528-05:00Silent Sunday<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sC4eM_1xI/AAAAAAAAAaw/cMcuDRhN2VA/s1600-h/Black+Eyed+Susans+on+Blue.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443447743810885394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sC4eM_1xI/AAAAAAAAAaw/cMcuDRhN2VA/s200/Black+Eyed+Susans+on+Blue.jpg" /></a> Black Eyed Susan Scrabble Tile Pendant</div><div align="center">(Not yet listed)<br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sCoKPVTbI/AAAAAAAAAao/5NLglsNRIpg/s1600-h/Alpha+I+A+Loaded+and+Branded.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443447463574064562" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sCoKPVTbI/AAAAAAAAAao/5NLglsNRIpg/s200/Alpha+I+A+Loaded+and+Branded.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41590743">Scrabble Tile Pendant Your Initial</a></div><div align="center">(Please click title to enter shop)<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41668941"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443447221987981074" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sCaGQuNxI/AAAAAAAAAag/x6potXE_ANE/s200/Loaded+and+Protected+Alpha+3+A.jpg" />Scrabble Tile Pendant Leopard and Stripe Initial</a><br />(Please click title to enter shop)<br /><br /><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Carmen<br /><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4sBbr5Jq_I/AAAAAAAAAaI/jrQKUwW_qu4/s1600-h/Alpha+I+A+Loaded+and+Branded.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S4r6wL-SyrI/AAAAAAAAAZw/LY9dqPLslm0/s1600-h/Alpha+I+A+Loaded+and+Branded.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /></div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-68602984790069382642010-02-13T12:55:00.002-05:002010-02-13T13:43:43.029-05:00And My Mind Draws A BlankI was originally going to title this post "This Menopausal Moment is Brought to You By..." but thought better (or maybe I didn't but it was masked by my menopausal moment). I am hoping that if I type real fast I might be able to complete this post before the next wave of ....what was it I was going to type? <br /><br />Some of you reading this can't relate because you are too young (wait, it will come) and some of you can't relate because you are male (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">hahaha</span> no excuse go ask your <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">GF</span>, wife, SO or any middle aged woman on the street). The Menopausal Moment is a real <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">phenomena</span> that warrants exploration and millions of dollars in research.<br /><br />Ladies, we have all experienced it. The Menopausal Moment (or <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">TMM</span> for short, because it can't be real and medical unless it has an acronym) is that sudden lack of blood to brain that causes your mouth to stop in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">mid sentence</span>. This is the hallmark sign of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">TMM</span>. It is usually followed by "What was I saying," or "What is the word I'm looking for..." Unfortunately that only masks your <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">embarrassment</span> from YOU because the word you were looking for is "and" or "the."<br /><br />My first glimpse into <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">TMM</span> was many years ago. It began with my grandmother. While rattling off orders as we marched out the door she would pause then cover by calling out <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">fifteen</span> names before getting to the right one, we were too young to realize what was going on. Then it happened to my mother, aunts, cousins the only common threads seemed to be age, "hot flashes," and statements of "wait 'til it happens to you."<br /><br />I have experienced <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">TMM</span> myself. My best one to date was when I sitting in an interview, with 4 other women who were looking to hire a high profile executive for their high profile company (no names not that I shouldn't I just can't remember--it's happening now). While answering some deep question like "What is the meaning of life," my mind went blank. Noting the age of the women in the room, and knowing they had no clue what my age was I apologized profusely and stated calmly "I just had a menopausal moment." Being able to relate, I was offered the position a few days later. Being too <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">embarrassed</span> I declined.<br /><br />So next time it happens don't be too concerned it is one of those skeletons in the closet that we don't share in polite societies. Yes, it is real. No, there is nothing wrong with you but I am sure that the pharmaceutical companies will come out with a pill to assist us through it--soon.<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-10223471775293683132010-02-08T22:04:00.005-05:002010-02-08T22:17:56.380-05:00M is for Monday, M is for Mucha<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DRBtomf7I/AAAAAAAAAZg/LQdETSnfIuY/s1600-h/Mucha+Red+Head+with+Harp+Diagonal.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436074577596153778" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DRBtomf7I/AAAAAAAAAZg/LQdETSnfIuY/s200/Mucha+Red+Head+with+Harp+Diagonal.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DQ7KPuCcI/AAAAAAAAAZY/vwt6IAaJovQ/s1600-h/Mucha+Girl+Job+Diagonal.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436074465017334210" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DQ7KPuCcI/AAAAAAAAAZY/vwt6IAaJovQ/s200/Mucha+Girl+Job+Diagonal.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DQ1vJ9-JI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ZAi7RuPIIV8/s1600-h/Mucha+Girl+in+the+moonlight+diagonal.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436074371846109330" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/S3DQ1vJ9-JI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ZAi7RuPIIV8/s200/Mucha+Girl+in+the+moonlight+diagonal.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><div>They don't even have names yet but I couldn't wait to share them. After recently discovering the works of Alphonse Mucha seems I can't get enough of them! There is an ethereal quality to his works that begs you to do something with them. So lately, I've been playing with paper, eating glue and running with scissors while working on Mucha girl pendants. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Each beauty in this newest group is mounted on polymer clay tiles, sanded and sealed. Gorgeous as a pendant but would be equally as lovely as a pin. Off to play with more Mucha muchachas.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Until next time,</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Carmen<br /><br /></div><br /><div></div></div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-38421271736565042212010-02-06T15:28:00.002-05:002010-02-06T15:53:04.123-05:00Basic Rules for Living on the PlanetLife does not come with instructions. We are kind of thrown into it and then we are mentored and guided by our parents, families, friends, and a few wild cards that destiny throws in the mix. It's too bad that there is no reference book, You Tube video, etc. for when all else fails or for when you have reached the crossroads. It's also too bad that we don't take notes along the way.<br /><br />One of my favorite books is Life's Little Instruction Book. Another favorite is Everything I Ever Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. Granted they are not an atlas for living but they are a good start. We would all do well to purchase a copy of each and keep it near by. They remind us of basic issues in simple terms.<br /><br />It has been one of those weeks, months, and years. I just need to remind myself of what is important and while I'm there I'll share with you:<br /><ul><li>Say "Please" </li><li>Say "Thank you"</li><li>Say "I love you"</li><li>Say "I'm sorry"</li><li>If you open it, close it</li><li>If you turn it on, turn it off</li><li>If it ain't broken, don't fix it</li><li>If you break it, repair it</li><li>If you borrow it, return it</li><li>Toilet seat down</li><li>You are responsible for your own happiness</li></ul><p>Until next time,</p><p>Carmen</p><p> </p>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-74788893110470627612010-01-06T20:54:00.001-05:002010-01-06T20:55:22.803-05:00So you don't post for a bit . . .and all heck breaks loose! What is up with that? You get a little busy with the holidays, making some custom orders and forget (abandon) your blog for a bit . . . and it becomes "inactive!" I never knew that!SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-25747195724078082452009-11-08T10:50:00.003-05:002009-11-09T11:07:20.875-05:00Not So Silent SundayIt's been a long time. Over a month and nothing from this self proclaimed "loud mouth." I've missed blogging but unfortunately have not found the spare minute in the day to devote to it.<br /><br />It's been a strange year. In earlier posts I've shared what I am seeing in my community secondary to the recession. Yesterday I received another dose of reality while participating in a health fair that my staff coordinated and sponsored.<br /><br />It was held in our statellite office. An area that just 18 months ago was considered very up and coming, with multiple coveted zip codes, affluent areas, promise of the American dream. Today it has one of the highest foreclosure rates and unemployment rates in our State. Today it is an area that hurts visibly.<br /><br />In the land of plenty, the land of milk and honey that is America, it is difficult to comprehend the inability to provide yourself with basic needs--food, shelter, being able to provide and care for oneself, etc. That is what I saw. That is their reality.<br /><br />There are no words to describe the response we received from those that attended the health fair. It was pure gratitude and I cannot begin to share what that looks or feels like. But I can say to anyone reading this blog that if you have an opportunity to assist in community events in your area take the time, do it, make a difference in someone's life. Right now, it is needed.<br /><br />My deepest appreciation and thanks to those who made this possible for our community. Ursula, Ron, Tim, Terri, Claudia C, Claudia J, Yvette, Isaiah, Pacia, Connie, Jayne, Melissa, Wendy, Dawn, Ramona, Carol, Eva, Hugh, Luz, Marlene, Taymi, Brenda, Debbie T, Debbie D-M (and Buddy), Valarie, Linda (and her wonderful Volunteers), and Paul--thank you! Your dedication and committment to our organization, your community and the people that we serve is a source of inspiration. I am blessed to be a part of this "Dream Team."<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-36037712206386018412009-09-26T16:14:00.003-04:002009-09-26T16:37:40.822-04:00Growing Up SpanglishMy sister and I are slightly damaged, I say that in a loving way. We grew up just a little different than our friends. We grew up Spanglish.<br /><br />Now you might ask what exactly is growing up Spanglish? Well if you take the best of American culture and mix it with the best of Spanish tradition you have growing up Spanglish. Our parents did not speak English as we were growing up which now in retrospect has led to some of the funniest moments (and memories) of our lives. We recall parental language <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">faux</span> pas and can laugh for hours not only at the way they were said but at the subtle innuendos associated with what they said.<br /><br />Our parents never said thank you very much, but did mange "sank <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ju</span>' berry mush." Our friends shopped at Winn Dixie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Qwik</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Chek</span> we cut to the chase and went to "Winn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Chek</span>," our grandmother's favorite store. Most of you probably have had a bucket of the Colonel's Kentucky Fried Chicken <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">hmmm</span> at our house that would be "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ceeken</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Leeken</span>." And then there was the bus driver who insulted our mother (according of course to our mother) the man simply asked her to "Put the fare..." in the toll machine and pointed. Our mother insisted that he had called her "...an ugly lady of the evening." <br /><br />As we grew up we learned the American translation for our "secret language." Now after so many years we crack up when we hear friends and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">acquaintances</span> discuss their "secret languages." It seems they might not have been as "secret" as any of us thought. There are so many common factors that we are beginning to wonder if it wasn't a master plot thought up by our parents.<br /><br />Growing up Spanglish was amazing. It prepared us for what life had to hold. If nothing else it did teach us to think on our feet, to question the spoken word, and to stand on what we know to be right for us. Case in point, I was going out on a first date many years ago when my mother turned to me and the young man and uttered, "Don con hon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">lader</span>." A huge smile emerged on my dates face, to which I responded "zip it, you can't begin to understand."<br /><br />Have a great weekend and until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-31386938974442857362009-09-19T12:55:00.007-04:002009-09-19T13:14:58.581-04:00We're Back~~Silent Saturday<div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUQkk2vZyI/AAAAAAAAAZA/fis1qyZZiNs/s1600-h/4-19-2009+Sterling+Silver+Mauve+Brooch+Grace+Pearls.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383227150145906466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 174px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUQkk2vZyI/AAAAAAAAAZA/fis1qyZZiNs/s200/4-19-2009+Sterling+Silver+Mauve+Brooch+Grace+Pearls.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24187034">Good Grace-Crochet Pin</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center">Back in the shop in a multitude of colors, just in time for your holiday shopping. Pin on your lapel or slide a ribbon or chain through the pin's back for a unique look this fall.<br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUPo6g5MvI/AAAAAAAAAY4/fHlx32pdXy4/s1600-h/3-7-2009+Teal+Necklace+3+Tiers+on+Stephanie.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383226125167702770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 184px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUPo6g5MvI/AAAAAAAAAY4/fHlx32pdXy4/s200/3-7-2009+Teal+Necklace+3+Tiers+on+Stephanie.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21997516">Crochet Necklace</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center">Back in the shop in a multitude of colors, just in time for your holiday shopping.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUOsST_q8I/AAAAAAAAAYw/m1l12wc1WhA/s1600-h/Eye+Glass+Holder+Necklace+Close+UP+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383225083584031682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 198px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SrUOsST_q8I/AAAAAAAAAYw/m1l12wc1WhA/s200/Eye+Glass+Holder+Necklace+Close+UP+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30840850">Integrity Necklace</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857&show_panel=true">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center">Length adjusts from choker to full 30" can also be used as eyeglass holder</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><div align="center">Grow flowers of gratitude in the soil of prayer~V. Woods</div><br /></div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-28330203799958299152009-08-29T00:50:00.006-04:002009-08-29T01:07:48.207-04:00Wishes Do Come True<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Spi1haFWnDI/AAAAAAAAAYY/sFJPtOmET24/s1600-h/WISH+WB+Mounted.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375245740808772658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 196px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Spi1haFWnDI/AAAAAAAAAYY/sFJPtOmET24/s200/WISH+WB+Mounted.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28713121">Wish Bracelet--Sumpin Else WISH</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28691936"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375244947650943346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 178px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Spi0zPVymXI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/37TW6xffX4g/s200/Man+Star+WB+Mounted.JPG" border="0" />Wish Bracelet--Man Star with Heart</a> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">If a pig can fly, are any words necessary? Hope you enjoy the new additions to our shop. </div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-25459471434825063632009-08-09T12:43:00.003-04:002009-08-09T12:56:42.010-04:00Please Pardon our Dust...I've always loved this sign in department stores. It's always been encouraging to me to see growth and to know that there exists planned chaos. I've always secretly wanted to hang one of those signs up myself.<br /><br />Sumpin Else is our little dream. We hoped for a "Please Pardon our Dust..." sign of our own one day. Ahhhh, one day that was the key. That day came a little sooner; not a complaint just a joyful realization.<br /><br />Over the next couple of weeks, we will be working on reorganizing our growing "little" business. For which our kitchen tables, living rooms, dining rooms, and families thank us. We in turn thank you!<br /><br />We are not as savvy or well equipped at this as Bloomingdale's or Macy's. So in order to fulfill our local and custom orders while we revamp we will be on hiatus until September. If you have placed a Sumpin Else order (through 8/7/2009) your order will be shipped in the same timely manner as it always has been. If you are placing an order 8/8/2009 or after please note that orders will be shipped on August 27th.<br /><br />Again, thank you for making our dreams come true. Next blog entry will be August 27th in the meantime: Please pardon our dust while we regroup to serve you better.<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-15059347295684436922009-08-06T19:33:00.003-04:002009-08-06T21:49:52.106-04:00Oh, GROW UP Already!We've been talking a lot about kids moving out, moving on, and getting married . . . and, as a mom, I know you have to let them go at some point, BUT (and that's a big but) what if you're not ready? What then? <br /><br />My daughter decided it was time to spread her wings and fly, and fly she did! All the way to New York City! It's not like I can hop in the car and be there in an hour or two. Even if I fly it's still more than a few hours out. I remember being her age and getting in my car and going and going. . . albeit it was only for the weekend. Then, I'd come home. My weekend trips never took me out of state (okay, once)! <br /><br />Nick just popped the question and as happy as we are about it . . . he's spreading his wings and flying, too! <br /><br />My mind rewinds and I remember all of them as little kids (Carmen's and mine) . . . the day Nick (his sister's interpreter - they're a year and half apart) decided he could no longer understand what she was saying so we were up the creek understanding her . . . the day Carmen got stopped by the cop and Amanda and Alex (still in their car seats) started singing "Bad boys, Bad boys, whatcha gonna do . . . " . . . Alex removing every stitch of clothes and running around saying, "I'm cold!"<br /><br />The kids have grown up . . . but I still remember these moments (and MORE), and I thank God each and every day that I was able to share times with them when they were little.<br /><br />But to the youngest of the clan, my Derrick, I say . . . take your time.<br /><br />~MaggiSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-74448872292859770512009-08-02T11:49:00.007-04:002009-08-02T12:18:40.851-04:00Beauty in a Grain of Sand<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SnW17CwrSSI/AAAAAAAAAYI/-aMwrKUAprg/s1600-h/Chihuly+Glass+III+with+Bale+mounted.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365394557039757602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 182px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SnW17CwrSSI/AAAAAAAAAYI/-aMwrKUAprg/s200/Chihuly+Glass+III+with+Bale+mounted.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28670140">Glass Pendant--Glass Ceiling--Bellagio III</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28669922"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365394451605239730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 191px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SnW105_IN7I/AAAAAAAAAYA/1a3Ojz3kTt4/s200/Chihuly+Glass+II+with+Bale+mounted.JPG" border="0" />Glass Pendant--Glass Ceiling--Bellagio II </a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else<br /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SnW1mq19TCI/AAAAAAAAAXw/oykICrC-0aI/s1600-h/Chihuly+Glass+I+with+Bale+mounted.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365394207022074914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SnW1mq19TCI/AAAAAAAAAXw/oykICrC-0aI/s200/Chihuly+Glass+I+with+Bale+mounted.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28669463">Glass Pendant--Glass Ceiling--Bellagio I</a><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else<br /></a><br />"I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free." Michelangelo</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Have you ever looked at a tree and noticed the sun shining through the leaves? How they glimmer and become almost translucent? How the color is alive and vibrant? Or have you walked on the beach and marveled at those tiny little grains of sand? How they shine as if each were a diamond just ready to be plucked? </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Man has been awed by the beauty of nature since the begining of time. The great masters saw more in a piece of stone or a stretched canvas something that needed to be released. The beauty they saw in their raw materials was much more than words could describe, so they set them "free."</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Each one of us has the potential to do that; if not with our hands, with our minds. This power uplifts and transcends us. Next time you find yourself in the garden or on the beach, find the beauty in a grain of sand.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Carmen </div></div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-73202770726187018322009-07-25T11:33:00.004-04:002009-07-25T11:58:00.296-04:00For My Children<div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28319965"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362422318649468546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 184px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Smsmr_66ZoI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/GkL88bSbFyg/s200/Girl+Baby%27s+First+Haircut.JPG" border="0" />Slider Box--Baby's First Haircut Lock Keeper Girl</a> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpinelse on Etsy</a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Smsml5EMxTI/AAAAAAAAAXI/cOiAh2XLPpg/s1600-h/Boy+Baby%27s+First+Haircut.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362422213730157874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 179px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Smsml5EMxTI/AAAAAAAAAXI/cOiAh2XLPpg/s200/Boy+Baby%27s+First+Haircut.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28319812">Slider Box--Baby's First Haircut Lock Keeper Boy</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpinelse on Etsy</a></div><div align="center"><br />MorningsideThe old man died</div><div align="center">And no one cried</div><div align="center">They simply turned away</div><div align="center">And when he died</div><div align="center">He left a table made of nails and pride</div><div align="center">And with his hands he carved these words inside</div><div align="center">"for my children"<br />Neil Diamond <strong><em><a href="http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/n/neil_diamond/morningside.html">Morningside</a> </em></strong></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">(for complete lyrics and to view Morningside click on Morningside above. You will be directed to the lyricsmode.com site and the appropriate page. The youtube video is available on the left.)</div><div align="center"><strong><em></em></strong> </div><div align="left">The first time I ever heard this song my eldest son was not even a glimmer in this mother's eyes. I can't begin to express how deeply the lyrics touched me and the commitment I vowed to make for my children at that time. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Decades have since passed, but the whole time, the lyrics have lived within my head and my heart. Their haunting beauty pulled me through some of my darkest moments, moments when I could not find it in myself to lift up by the boot straps and go on. They were constant reminders of why it was important to me to be there for my children. They helped me to focus on what I held to be important and what I believed I needed to instill in them.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">For Mom's (and Dad's) every where, your job (raising your children) is the most important work you will ever do. You are molding their futures, yours, and that of the world. They are our legacy. They are our hope~~raise them with all the love and compassion that you hold within.</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Carmen</div><div align="center"></div><strong><em></em></strong>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-52649207602464600242009-07-22T19:48:00.004-04:002009-07-22T20:03:49.806-04:00Writer's Block related to HealthcareIn keeping with the summer schedule of blogging every three days today would be the day. My only challenge is that try as I might nothing has popped into my mind for tonights post. My entire day has been filled with so many other things that little time was left over to even consider what to write so I will briefly share with you what is troubling me. Healthcare!<br /><br />As I've stated before, I am a nurse. Although I have been in Administration and not at the bedside in over 11 years I am still a nurse. Due to the current economic crisis I am starting to see first hand what I learned about in graduate school--the phenomenon of the emergency room as the point of entry to healthcare. How sad it is to watch and how deeply distrubing it is to know that so many are in need of care and unable to afford it. They put off seeing their doctors often until it is too late. It is not bad enough that so many are now out of jobs and underinsured or uninsured we must now add Medicare and Medicaid cuts on top of that as well. <br /><br />I still have hope. Hope that we will lead ourselves out of this crisis and that we will find a more lasting and workable solution to our healthcare woes. A country's greatness can be gauged by how it takes care of its children, elderly and infirmed. Are we slipping?<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-43552041241838881682009-07-19T11:56:00.006-04:002009-07-19T12:22:20.088-04:00The Psychology of Color the Color Mood Connection<div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28034965"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360201647434565090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 164px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SmNC_6_NBeI/AAAAAAAAAXA/7M2nkEXFYiQ/s200/Color+Wheel+PSE.jpg" border="0" />Glass Pendants--Jewel Tones Color Me Wonderful $8.00</a> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857&show_panel=true">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="left">Have you ever walked into a room and wondered why you feel so anxious, relaxed, motivated, or even tired? Have you ever dressed for a special meeting and chosen the red blazer or the black and wondered what it is about that blazer that makes you feel powerful and in control? Why do we dress baby girls in pinks, and baby boys in blues? And why do attorneys tell clients what to wear for their "day in court?"</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">The answer is both simple and complicated. Color effects our affect, moods, perceptions, and feelings. It also effects others affect, moods, perceptions, and feelings about us when we wear them. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Much research has been done on the effects of color. So much so that many articles and writings are now available to the general public thanks to the Internet. One of my favorites <strong><em>Color: Meaning, Symbolism, and Psychology</em></strong> can be found at <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/colorexpert">http://www.squidoo.com/colorexpert</a>.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">So next time you wonder why you feel anxious whenever your boss wears "...that red blazer." Look it up, you might just have the answer at your fingertips!</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Carmen<em><strong> </strong></em></div></div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-26004441820319103662009-07-16T19:28:00.004-04:002009-07-16T19:37:16.767-04:00Thilent (Corny Yes) Thursday<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Sl-4tBH8TrI/AAAAAAAAAWw/8XpK9aUY7lM/s1600-h/Tequila+Sunset+Pendant.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359205165129551538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 193px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Sl-4tBH8TrI/AAAAAAAAAWw/8XpK9aUY7lM/s200/Tequila+Sunset+Pendant.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27781838">Glass Pendant--Tequila Sunset</a></div><div align="center">Original Sumpin Else Photo</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Sl-4QrHO12I/AAAAAAAAAWo/8AMwNVTU1UE/s1600-h/Pea+Angled.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359204678184654690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 182px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Sl-4QrHO12I/AAAAAAAAAWo/8AMwNVTU1UE/s200/Pea+Angled.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27842874">Glass Pendants--Firsts</a></div><div align="center">Sample: Maggi's "Little Man" Derrick</div><div align="center">Firsts are Custom Items<br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27842874"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359204257226046210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/Sl-34K64OwI/AAAAAAAAAWg/V_odtX7BAJo/s200/Urs+and+Ron+Front.JPG" border="0" />Glass Pendant--Firsts</a> </div><div align="center">Sample: Our friends Ron and Ursula</div><div align="center">Firsts are Custom Items</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Carmen</div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-4726401950218320982009-07-12T20:32:00.005-04:002009-07-12T20:46:42.572-04:00Trying New Things<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SlqCM1TMCWI/AAAAAAAAAVg/B5_SSYtcVPE/s1600-h/Magnolia+Square+side+view.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357737863688227170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 194px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SlqCM1TMCWI/AAAAAAAAAVg/B5_SSYtcVPE/s200/Magnolia+Square+side+view.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27733974">Glass Pendant-Magnolia</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="left">I remember as a small child often sitting at the dinner table with what looked like who knows what in front of me. I also remember my grandmother Mimi encouraging me to try whatever the flavor of the day was. Whether it was food, games, books, or activities it was always Mimi encouraging us to try something new. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Later on when Mimi was not at our side every minute of the day, her voice would pop into my head whenever I faced a new challenge. Thanks to Mimi our sense of adventure was developed and cultivated. She may have been a little woman but she was packed full of spunk. Mimi passed away on December 17, 2004.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">As I was looking in our shop the other day I thought to myself how much I would like to try my hand at glass pendants. Up until this point I had always been fearful to give it a try and then there she was "Try it" I heard her distinct but tiny voice in my head. Of course I had to follow it. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">Mimi, it is the first of hopefully many, this magnolia is for you. I love you and miss you, thank you for staying in my heart and in my head.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Carmen </div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-44036876852455985922009-07-09T19:36:00.002-04:002009-07-09T20:39:51.863-04:00An Idle Mindis the "playground of the devil." I'm not agreeing with that quote these days. Well my mind really hasn't been idle, but it has been taking in way too much HGTV. Oh, the new ideas I have for this house . . . not that we need to do anything more to our house at the moment, but WOW! <br /><br />I'm thinking of demo'ing the wall between the kitchen and the dining room. Really, it's not a major task. The problem starts with the re-wiring of the electric for the fridge and stove. I guess I shouldn't mention the air conditioning duct is encased by a soffit. Seriously, it looks great in my head! Mind you I'm not an electrician, plumber or carpenter nor do I play one on TV . . . but I'm loaded with ideas! <br /><br />Next, the laundry room . . . it just needs to be a bit bigger. It's not a problem that the only way to expand the laundry room would be into the garage. Ha! Just a little bump in the road.<br /><br />Tomorrow I'm Lowe's or Home Depot bound . . . now that is truly the playground for the devil!<br /><br />~Maggi<br />(just kidding Babe!)SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-20816677524027514302009-07-05T13:02:00.004-04:002009-07-05T13:34:04.078-04:00Congratulations Nick and Carri<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SlDeTTv72rI/AAAAAAAAAVY/qV5M8kVE_dc/s1600-h/Nick+and+Carri.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355024380243729074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 119px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SlDeTTv72rI/AAAAAAAAAVY/qV5M8kVE_dc/s200/Nick+and+Carri.jpg" border="0" /></a>Nick and Carri</div><div align="center">Engaged July 4th 2009 </div><br /><br />I had good intentions today. I was going to bring our readers up to speed with what's going on in our shop. BUT as you can see our blog is a little bit of this, a little bit of that. We not only want to tell you about Sumpin Else, we want to establish relationships with you as Carmen and Maggi.<br /><br />So here is a Carmen moment to share. Last night during the fireworks my son Nicholas and his girlfried Carri set off some fireworks of their own. They got engaged a wonderful text this morning confirmed it! To both of them we (Paul and I) say "Congratulations and best of luck on your journey together, may it be filled with joy and love."<br /><br />I once read one of those internet chain letters that touched my heart and soul. And even though the legends site says it probably didn't happen the poem at the end always stays with me. I wish now that its true author was known so as to give them credit because if there is one thing I wish for Nick, Carri, and all of our children it is "I wish you enough..."<br /><br /><div align="center">I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright,</div><div align="center">enough rain so you can appreciate light. </div><div align="center">I wish you enough music to raise your spirits,</div><div align="center">enough silence so you can hear it. </div><div align="center">I wish you enough happiness to make you glow, </div><div align="center">enough pain to make you grow. </div><div align="center">I wish you enough intelligence to make your way, </div><div align="center">enough innocence to enjoy the day. </div><div align="center">I wish you joy. I wish you love. I wish you peace. I wish you enough.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="left">Until next time,</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Carmen (aka Mom to you)</div>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-81030611444478976712009-07-03T22:53:00.002-04:002009-07-03T23:02:23.895-04:00Happy Fourth Of JulyHappy birthday America, land that I love. Thank you for giving me a roof over my head, bread to eat everyday, the shirt on my back and the opportunity to exercise my rights and defend my beliefs. With all your wrinkles and your warts you are still a jewel in our eyes.<br /><br />Please remember the young men and women who are away from our shores. Thank you for your great sacrifice in the name of Freedom. <br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-42102349453255670612009-06-30T17:17:00.005-04:002009-06-30T17:42:01.542-04:00Somedays You Give It To God<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SkqCtMGJcqI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/E3BaWstFrPU/s1600-h/Believe+Prayer+Jar+Only.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353234819935990434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 196px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-XNO200AdJI/SkqCtMGJcqI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/E3BaWstFrPU/s200/Believe+Prayer+Jar+Only.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27192398">Prayer Jar--$10.00</a></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6154857">Sumpin Else</a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-family:arial;">My sister and I were raised Catholic. Long before it was fashionable to be Christian, we attended Catholic parochial school and Catholic high school. She was the lucky one that got to go to a boy/girl school; I was the ground breaker and was promptly enrolled in an all girl school. </span></div><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">The beauty of growing up Catholic is that there was a dogma, a creed or a prayer for each one of life's hurdles. Everything in life had an associated mystery and mysticism. There were prayers for lost items, for rain, for sunshine, for impossible obstacles, for blessings, and thanks. Life was simple with St. Anthony, St. Joseph, and St. Jude. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">Unfortunately as one ages we want more of an explanation to all of life's trials. This was not spared on us. We too looked for answers were the only answer is and was because it is so. However, life does have a way of bringing you back to where it wants you to be. Always at the crossroads and making decisions and faith is what sustains you. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">No matter what your belief system is faith is at the root of it. Let faith work for you and move your mountains. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">Until next time,</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;">Carmen</span></p>SumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-31828939175455340172009-06-27T12:01:00.003-04:002009-06-27T12:15:13.469-04:00Time to Make the Donutsthe Dunkin' Donuts commercial goes through my head everytime Carmen tells me it's time to update the blog. (Don't ask me why, it's just the way my brain cells are wired . . . ) <br /><br />We are going to have an opportunity to market our custom frames to a softball league. A friend of mine has a daughter whose team is going to be playing in the All Star games in Alabama over the 4th of July weekend. Congrats, Alivia! Alivia is going to be receiving her customized frame as our "thank you" and "congratulations" gift. We'll be sure to post Alivia and her frame right here on our blog as soon as we finish it up for her this week! <br /><br />Don't forget! We can customize any of our frames in your favorite colors, colors that match your school, your room or any other occasion! <br /><br />~MaggiSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5615526448220716628.post-88943208268991841922009-06-24T20:37:00.002-04:002009-06-24T21:30:03.484-04:00ConcernedI try very hard to stay optimistic. Not Pollyanna hiding her head in the sand but upbeat looking for the silver lining in each cloud, the good that comes out of the bad, etc. I have my dark side don't misunderstand but it is usually kept well under control by the optimist who sets my "cruise control." <br /><br />I am also a nurse. Again, given my profession the optimist springs eternal. Although it is difficult to witness there is good that comes from human suffering although we don't understand it when it is happening. We as humans aspire to make things better for others. Life is held in the highest esteem and people are an end not a means to an end.<br /><br />Not that I am giving up on these beliefs or practices, but even for Pollyanna it is hard at the moment to hold on to them given the difficult economic times. It is heart breaking to see what is happening in communities all around the United States. With layoffs and downsizing we are beginning to see more and more Americans who for years have been healthy due to benefits that allowed them to stay healthy become infirmed with no where to turn. No job, same bills, health issues and no coverage--never a good combination.<br /><br />We as a country need to be cognizant of what is going on all around us. Tonight at 10 p.m. President Obama will be holding a Town Hall Meeting. Even for those of us that consider ourselves as being not politically active or mildly interested this meeting will be important. This meeting will discuss healthcare and may set precedent for upcoming legislation. You don't need a soapbox just good listening skills and a voice that you are willing to exercise.<br /><br />Until next time,<br /><br />CarmenSumpinElsehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04199378068180683997noreply@blogger.com0