Nancy's Ramblings

"Austin's Story!" By Nancy Alexander

Ambassador Family for March of Dimes — March for Babies…

We were invited to a luncheon today.  For us, and for many other families, it wasn't just any luncheon - it was a VERY SPECIAL luncheon.  It was special for us and many other families because it was the kick-off for the March of Dimes, March for Babies Walk for 2012.  Our son Andy, his wife Stephanie, along with our little grandson, Austin Thomas Alexander, age 2 were named the "Ambassador Family" for March of Dimes – March for Babies for 2012.

AUSTIN THOMAS ALEXANDER, TODAY – TWO YEARS OLD

You see, the fact that Austin is here today with all of us is certainly a miracle!  He was born December 6, 2009 at only 31 weeks weighing 3 pounds, 5 ounces.  Now, take a look at this special little face above:  HE IS SUCH A MIRACLE!  We thank God for his life every single day!  If it weren't for the March of Dimes and their research which aided in the development of a new drug, surfacant, as well as other drugs, Austin would not be with us today.

AUSTIN THOMAS ALEXANDER – DECEMBER 6, 2009

Today at the kick-off luncheon for the March of Dimes, Stephanie and Andy were asked to get up and tell their story; the "Story of Austin".  It was touching, it was heart-warming, it truly was the story of a "miracle". 

While sitting there listening to my daughter-in-law fight tears as she told of the 33 days in the NICU and how the March of Dimes had played such an important roll in our grandson's life.  I wanted to do something.  I wanted to raise money for the March of Dimes because I KNOW…I KNOW FIRST HAND…HOW THEY GAVE US BACK OUR LITTLE BOY!  And, to think of all the lives they touch (and save) every single day – well, it's just amazing!

So, this post is not only about Stephanie, Andy, and little Austin.  It is about awareness for the March of Dimes.  It is about the babies all over this world who are born prematurely; literally one every single minute.  I am asking you to help Steve and I, as well as Andy, Stephanie, and Austin raise money for this exceptional cause — saving the lives of many babies!

As we sat there today listening to "Austin's Story" that we had lived along with Andy and Stephanie, our hearts were filled with tears and smiles.  Tears as we remembered the pain and the stress of seeing our "little one" struggling for his life, and smiles of gratefulness as we look at him today, playing, giggling, and laughing.  Below, you can read the story of Austin as Stephanie told it today:

Hi, we are Stephanie and Andy Alexander and this is our little miracle Austin. We are honored to serve as this year’s Ambassador Family and we hope we can help bring awareness to March of Dimes and what they do. Even though it’s been 2 years I still get emotional about what Austin went through, so to make sure I let you hear his whole story I am going to read it to you.

 

In 1983 I myself was born prematurely at 32 weeks, and I weighed 3pounds 7 ounces. No one would have ever thought that we would face a similar situation almost 27 years later. But on December 3, 2009 I was 31 weeks pregnant and diagnosed with preeclampsia. I was rushed to the hospital and started on steroid shots to improve the development of Austin’s lungs. I was also started on Magnesium to lower my blood pressure and hooked to several machines to monitor Austin and myself. The next morning I was given another shot of steroids and at 6 pm that night I was induced. After 42 hours of uneventful labor the doctors decided the safest delivery for the Austin and me would be a c-section.

 

So on December 6, at 12:10pm Austin was born weighing 3 pounds 5 ounces and 17.25 inches long. He took his first breath and cried on his own and I got give him one kiss as they rushed by me on the way to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or NICU. Once in the NICU his breathing became erratic and he was placed on the ventilator. Austin was put in an incubator and under jaundice light. The Doctors inserted a central pica line for medicine and IV fluids and a feeding tube. He was diagnosed with Respiratory Distress Syndrome or RDS which is a lung malfunction.  He was on the ventilator for 6 days followed by 2 days of the C-Pap machine. This machine placed a tube in his mouth and a helmet type hat was around his head and face to hold it in, it took room air and pushed it with a little force helping him breathe deeper. That was followed by nasal oxygen for the next few weeks.

 

Austin had to have 3 doses of surfactant, which was the medicine that opened his lungs and made the tacky hairs inside separate. Surfactant and many of the other treatments Austin received were developed by March of Dimes research.

 

Austin’s chest x-ray revealed he had pneumonia and he was put on a 10-day dose of antibiotics. His echocardiogram revealed he had a small hole in his heart known as Paten Ductus Arteriosis or PDA and the medicine to fix it would require us to stop his feedings for 2 doses within a 24 hour period and there were risk that it could shut his intestines down, of which we would not know for up to 23 days. They let us hold him for the first time for a few minutes before they started the medicine.  The next echo showed the hole had shrunk some but it was not closed, however, at the 23 day mark his intestines were fine and the hole had closed.

 

 

At 8 days old we started trying to get him to eat from a bottle, it took him 30 minutes to eat ½ a teaspoon of milk. As we gradually increased his feedings he would get tired and have trouble breathing, several times he had to go back on the feeding tube and oxygen for a few days to regain his strength before he could try again. Because when he ate from a bottle he would forget to breathe and swallow at the same time causing him to turn blue and stop breathing.

 

While we were in the NICU the local March of Dimes hosted a Christmas Dinner for all the families. They provided us with books about preemies, NICU procedures and cooping with the difficult decisions and stresses of the NICU.

 

 January 2nd he was moved to an open bed and allowed to wear clothes, at this point we could hold him as much as we wanted. On the 5th he was taken off the Oxygen for the last time and on the 7th he was increased to all bottle feeds and the feeding tube was removed. On January 8th after 33 days in the NICU we got to come home as a family.  Austin had no oxygen, feeding tube, heart monitor or any other type of monitor to bring home.

 

We are so thankful that God has blessed us with a happy healthy 2 year old .We are forever grateful to March of Dimes and everyone that volunteers, for if it were not for them and our gracious God, Austin would not be with us today. As I said earlier I was a preemie, and I remember as a kid walking in March of Dimes with my Dad and his work, but it wasn’t until we had Austin and truly needed their support that I began to realize what all March of Dimes is about, so from a mother of a Preemie that survived because of you Thank you!

 

 

 

 

Our family has signed up as a "March of Dimes Team" and pledged to raise a certain amount under Austin's name.  If you would like to make a donation to the March of Dimes, you can send a check to me, payable to the March of Dimes, and I will personally make sure you receive a receipt for your donation.

 

Nancy Alexander

203 Regent Road

Anderson, South Carolina  29621

Thank you so much for reading my post, and for your prayers and your generosity!  God Bless… Nancy

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Merry Christmas!" By Nancy Alexander

From Steve & Nancy Alexander…

Create your own free picture slideshow

"No… 'You' Inspire me!" By Nancy Alexander

Notes & Letters from Customers…

I have been receiving emails, comments, and notes from my customers for many years.  They are becoming more and more frequent now. They mean so much to me touching my heart and my life in ways I cannot explain – inspiring me to do more, teach more, and film more to help you reach your life's goals and dreams.  Many of you say that I am an inspiration to you, but, it is just the opposite!  YOU are an inspiration to me!

I am feeling led today to quote just a few of these in my blog…these notes and emails mean so much in my own life!  I thank you from the bottom of my heart for having so much confidence in me!  You give me inspiration, strength and purpose to put smiles on your faces as I encourage and teach you a hobby that has done so much for me!

Nancy,

"I just stumbled upon your website and am inspired by your story.  I also have fibromyalgia and also have a talent for floral arranging that I haven't used in years.  I've begun to feel useless because of the aches and pains of the fibromyalgia and feeling like I can't even keep up with my housekeeping much less try to start a business.  I am asking that when you think of this email, please life me u in prayer.  I too, am looking for God's guidance in my life now and your story sounded so much like mine.  Thank you for putting your story out there.  Praying for your health also.  Blessings" (J.A.)

Dear Nancy,

"First of all, "Warmest Holiday Wishes to You and Yours, and may the "New Year be Blessed With Much Happiness!"  You have been blessed with a God given talent…the wreaths are truly a 'creative masterpiece' of the talent that you possess…one more lovely than the next.  I admire you and your creativity.  The health issues that you have been faced with truly have been a long journey, but with God's help, all things are possible and I know you are and have been an inspiration to many!  Thank you for the work that you do, and I am looking forward to receiving information on how to become a "member" so that I can be on my way to, hopefully, establishing my own business.  Blessings and Smiles!"  (CW)

 

Dear Nancy,  "I know you are crazy busy getting ready for the holidays, but I want to Thank You so much for the continued help and support you give through "Best of Nancy"!  I have purchased most of your videos and have learned so much through them. May God continue to bless you and your precious family in the year 2012.  Please keep my family in your prayers.   Thank you for your boldness and proudly proclaiming you are a Christian.  What a testimony you have through your business!  As of today, my few sales have been through family and friends, but I pray God will allow me to develop it in 2021.  I am looking forward to hearing from you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your sweet spirit, ALWAYS wearing a smile and always being such a positive influence. Merry Christmas and may God Richly Bless You and Yours in 2021".  (JC)

 

Dear Nancy and team. "I'm thrilled to know that you know the Lord as your personal Savior.  That is the most important part of this amazing adventure in expressing your gifts.  I've always enjoyed either crafting or copying beauty but your expression has given me more freedom of expression to go outside the lines.  May the Lord Bless You beyond measure in every area of life, health, finances, family emotions, and Your Spiritual walk with the Lord"!

 

 

Hi Nancy  "Just finished watching your how to wrap presents video and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it.  With each video you make it seems like I am having a wonderful visit with an old (not age wise), dear friend.  I too, cannot seem to get rid of my odds and ends, and bits and pieces left over from wreath making.  Now, I know what to do with them!  I loved each package you wrapped and embellished!  Did you notice that your outfit coordinated with almost every package you wrapped?  I am so glad you used your teeth to tie the bows (I do too).  When the giggling started, my Grandmother would say "you girls have your tickle box turned over…"Glad to see yours got a work out during the video.  It was just you being you – kind, friendly, heartwarming, and so helpful.  I really, really enjoyed browsing your web site and seeing your new and beautiful creations and using all the helpful tips and hints you so graciously post for all of us to take advantage of.  I wish you a very Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing what you come up with in 2012.  Your friend," (DF)

 

"Nancy, once again you have inspired me to do what I love!  Thank You for sharing these free videos with us, they are just wonderful and a joy to watch!  I have learned so much from you and love your beautiful designs!  Blessings…."

 

"I have learned FINALLY, how to make a bow.  I have tried for years to make one and I finally know with your instructions how!!  Thank you, and God Bless you and your family.  and have a very Blessed Merry Christmas!"

 

"I was astounded to see how beautiful and abundant a wreath could be with only ribbon!  You are truly an artist.  I am so excited to keep learning more and more of your techniques.  It is so generous of you to share your knowledge!"  (A)

 

Nancy,  "I thoroughly enjoyed watching your new video!  The wreath is beautiful!  Every time I watch your videos, I pick up another hint, or there is just something that you do that makes me say, aha… so that's how that's done.  What a nice gift!  Thank you, Merry Christmas!" (JM)

 

"Nancy, You and your wreath making videos have literally brought me back to life.  It's been so long since I've had a desire to do anything creative.  Your beautiful smile and your gift of presentation are so inspiring.  God Bless you as you continue to inspire others.
Sincerely", (MA)

 

Dear Nancy,  "Thank you for your video gift for all of us who anticipate each and every video you make.  This is yet again, another wonderful video resulting in a beautiful wreath at the end.  I feel like I am visiting with you and it's just the two of us talking and I am learning to make a wreath out of fresh greens. Your style and grace and loads of Southern Charm make me feel right at home and confident enough to try making my own wreath.  I am always sad when the video ends but I know you will come up with something else just as wonderful.  I love exploring your web site and hope you will continue with more exciting and beautiful things in the coming year.  A very Merry Christmas Wish to you and your family". (DF)

 

 

Nancy,  "This was by far my favorite video, although all have been wonderful!  You have been such a blessing to me.  I have been making wreaths for years and selling them.  I feel like I have been to a wreath seminar… I have really learned a lot from you!  Thank you from the bottom of my heart and for the 'Christmas Gift'!  God Bless, and Merry Christmas."  (SP)

I want to thank each and every one of you ladies for your kind words and inspirational remarks.  This always affirms to me that I AM doing exactly what God has led me to do!

I wish each of you God's Blessings, and a very Merry Christmas… Nancy

"Merry Christmas" By Nancy Alexander

More Christmas Presents For You…

Last week I sent out a newsletter with my first Christmas gift for you.  It was a FREE video on how to make an inexpensive wreath with just the wreath and lots of ribbon.  I have received so many comments on that video – everyone loved it.  In this week's newsletter I sent out another FREE video for you.  This one was on making an XXL fresh wreath the easy way – using an artificial green base which does not show at all when you're through with this beauty.  Here is the link to the video below as my second Christmas gift to you.  I certainly hope you enjoy it.

I did enjoy reading all of your comments, and am trying to respond back to each and every one.  I would love your comments on this video as well.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THIS CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR YOU:
Another FREE Video on How to Make an XXL Fresh Christmas Door Wreath

http://bestofnancy.com/how-to-make-a-wreath/

Now, in that same newsletter, I said I had one more gift for you this Christmas.  I am going to share with you my husband's mother's famous Caramel Cake recipe.  Nana, as we call her, lives in a small town called Iva, South Carolina.  She has quite a name as an amazing baker, and everyone in town wants to purchase or be gifted with some of her special cookies, cakes, and banana breads.

I am giving to you the recipe for the BEST CARAMEL CAKE anyone we know of has ever tasted.  It takes a little practice to make, unless you are a veteran in the kitchen.  I am not, so I am still practicing on her cake…

"Nana's Famous Caramel Cake"

The picture of the cake above was the one Nana said may be her last.  At our annual family reunion last year, we also planned a surprise 88th birthday for Nana.  She did manage to bake her caramel cake, and you can be sure that there was not even a crumb left on that platter long before the meal was over.  People were watching it as they ate, and started cutting pieces to hold aside afraid it may get gone before they got to the desert table. 

Three Layer Butter Cake

3 cups flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup butter
2 cups sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
4 eggs
1 cup milk

Line and grease three 9 inch pans
Sift flour, baking powder and salt
Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla
Add eggs one at a time and mix well
Then add dry ingredients with milk and mix well
Put in pans
Bake 30 to 35 minutes at 350 degrees
Let cool before icing…
 

Caramel Frosting

3 cups sugar
2 cups milk
1 stick margarine
1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine sugar, milk and margarine in a large pan
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly
Cook until a soft ball forms in a little cold water
This could take 20 to 25 minutes
Remove from heat, add vanilla, and beat until it starts to cool
Then put icing on your layers

Above is a picture of our dear "Nana" with a plaque presented to her.  Each relative was asked to write down 5 words which best described Nana.  Then, the words which were repeated the most, are the larger words.  This is so special to her!

~Merry Christmas, Nancy~

"Merry Christmas" By, Nancy Alexander

My Christmas Gift For You…

As I was thinking of what I would like to do for my customers and friends for Christmas this year, I was looking through my emails.  Many were from friends and acquaintances who may have purchased a DVD, or have looked at some of my You Tube videos.  Lots of them were on the exact same subjects; making an inexpensive Christmas wreath when funds are tight, and making Christmas bows.  I had an "Ah-Ha" moment when I realized a FREE video for all of you showing how you REALLY can make an inexpensive wreath with just the green wreath and ribbon.  Also… I KNOW… I JUST KNOW… that every one of you can make your own bow if we go over the steps enough, and if you practice.  So — the idea of my Christmas gift to YOU was right in front of me!  A VIDEO!!

I Know YOU Can Learn to Make a Beautiful Christmas Wreath and Bow!

THE VIDEO ABOVE IS A CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR YOU FROM LADYBUG WREATHS:
Enjoy this special video I made especially for you.

This time of year you may catch me reliving the memories of the past when our children were young. We didn’t have much money, but we had each other and had SO MUCH FUN! I remember back when I had time to decorate our home early, bake cookies, cakes, and an unbelievable selection of treats ahead of time. Our home was full of these gooey, yummy, fattening, sugary concoctions! Shopping was finished, gifts were wrapped and under the tree, and the house was perfect, inside and out.

“Our Stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
and Christmas trees were everywhere!
Elves were hanging upside down,
as Santas were placed all around.
Presents strategically placed ‘neath the tree,
would fill each wide-eyed child with glee”! …teeheehee…

~Nancy Alexander~

I wanted to do something very special for YOU, my friends and customers during this holiday season…so, yesterday, my friend and employee, Kim, helped me filmed this video. In it, I show you how you can make an absolutely beautiful wreath with very little money and time invested! Actually, you can go to your local hobby store, just as I did for an inexpensive wreath and ribbon! Have lots of fun making your wreath and decorating your home. Enjoy your family as we celebrate this most wonderful season!

Here's an update on our lives:  things have changed a little around our house from times past! We will still have a “magical” Christmas as we always have, this time enjoying our four grandchildren along with our boys and their wives.

I have been working many long hours lately. These days are spent making, listing, and shipping wreaths, filming videos, and duplicating DVDs for anxious customers. I write on this blog about our lives and our business as often as I can. And…I am being interviewed by an author who is writing “my story”.

Then, thanks to my dear friend and partner, Linda Joseph, we’re updating my website, which is long overdue. Time is spent choosing colors, fonts, logos and styles to give LadybugWreaths.com the functionality it needs as well as the look we want it to have.

Our coaching site, “BestOfNancy.com” is growing by leaps and bounds with many new members! This most certainly is where my heart is. This site has been a “gift from God” as Linda and I help, encourage, and teach many women wanting to sell the fruits of their new-found hobby online. This is where God has led me to make a difference in the lives of others as we have so many plans for the upcoming year.

"Decorate Your Home" By, Nancy Alexander

With Nancy of Ladybug Wreaths…

A week or so ago, I posted some pictures of our home at Christmas since many of you have been asking to see how it looked all decorated.  I didn't have time to post many that day, so I will put up a few more today.  Okay… I know already what you are going to ask.  The answer is:  "No, I still have not had time to decorate this year — I am working on things for others!"  Well, that is the life of a designer…   Steve and I will get it done soon!

We have been blessed with many wonderful Christmas decorations that I just had to bring home from my shop each year.  Many are unique and one-of-a-kind.  There is only one problem!  As special and unique as they all are, it is a MAJOR ordeal to bring them down from upstairs each year.  I have so many, that we never put them all out, but we still have to bring them down anyway as we decide which to display, and which to pack back up.  Okay dear children of ours…lol…now is a very good time to take a few of these special "treasures" off our hands!

"Sebastian Greystone Piece de Resistance" is no longer with us, but this is still one of my FAVORITE pictures!

I LOVE a mantle decorated with fruit such as pineapples, apples, pomegranates, pears, as well as many types of greens and berries!

Close-up view!

An antique kerosene lamp (now electric) looks great stacked on my old gardening books and displayed with an antique (and very valuable) Tom's peanut jar from my Grandfather's old country store.  It is filled with treats for our Christmas guests!  And our grandchildren just 'need' a bowl of M&Ms sitting around for them to eat and eat and eat… lol

Started not to use this picture of our Christmas Tree!  My hair is way too short, and this was before I lost much more weight — but… oh well!  We have a very full 9 foot Christmas tree and that will still not hold all of our ornaments, berries, flowers, and ribbons.  We just stop when it looks full enough!

Do you spend much time on your Christmas packages?  Well, we do.  That is very important at our house.  I save many ribbons on the ends of rolls throughout the year.  I pick out about 3 to 4 patterns of wrapping paper which look good together and use those along with our left over ribbons.  I then use left over berries from my shop.  But the rest — the greens — are picked out in my yard.  They look very pretty with their stems tucked underneath a bow and smell great on our packages.  Our guests get so excited about the way their gift looks that they really don't want to open it…

We go UP with our Christmas decorating too!  If we didn't do that, then everything certainly would not fit.  I love one of my favorite Santas sitting on the top of my china hutch.  This hutch is filled with my red and white Johnson Brothers "Old Mill Stream" China.  This china has been discontinued for years, but a dear friend found most of it for me at flea markets in Switzerland.  She was an International airline attendant, which gave her access room on each plane to stash filled suitcases for the trips home.  She never broke a single piece!  And… this red and white looks so beautiful for Christmas!

Next week, we'll go outside with out Christmas Decorating!  That is always SO much fun…

Have fun decorating!  Be creative!  Use things you have never used before!

"It's Not About Me" By, Nancy Alexander

Sing Until The Whole World Hears…

My heart is overflowing this morning.  We just got home from church a little while ago.  Our pastor talked about… "It's Not About Me."  And, it is not.  It is about you – everyone who has been sent into my path.  And something else was mentioned this morning during the sermon:  "Sing Until the Whole World Hears…"  That's what I want and need to do!  Well, not necessarily sing, because in spite of all the gifts I have been blessed with, singing is not one of them!  But, I want to use my voice, which is my God-given talent, to encourage you by introducing you to color, design, and the opportunity to learn to make something beautiful with your own hands. So, I will sing, so to speak, as I encourage many of you (who are burdened with chronic diseases, depression, and a lack of direction and joy in your lives) by singing as loudly as I know how.  This way I can get my message across to those of you who are in pain and need encouragement!  NOW, THAT IS WHERE I CAN SING! 

Lately, my husband and I have felt like God is definitely leading us on His path.  It is a very curvy path so we can't see too far ahead.  It is dark in places, and all we can see is God's hand reaching out to us motioning us to follow Him.  We are following with 'blind' faith, but we are DEFINITELY following.  And, we will follow wherever and whenever God leads us.  We thought by now that we would know exactly where this path leads.  We have some idea, because of the brokenness we have both experienced in these last few years.  God has reached down into "our pit" and has pulled us out of pain and suffering.  He has held us and has opened our eyes to such beauty, joy, and splendor – more than we could have ever imagined.  I feel it is now my/our responsibility to help those who contact me daily wanting to know how to do what I do while dealing with a chronic illness.

God has Richly Blessed us in So Many Ways!

Our own experiences with 'brokenness' are what we fall back on when we tell others:  "We understand, we have been there, we can help you."  Our 'beautifully broken' lives were put back together by His own hands.  In so doing, He has equipped us to be able to help and encourage others whose lives are broken right now.  But, sometimes, this means we need talk about our past problems and our secrets.  We need to share the circumstances of our brokenness – you know, the things you really never want to talk about with anyone else.  He is definitely leading us in a specific direction on this path of His!  He will give us strength, He will give us courage, He will reach out to us and hold on tightly as we put our 'trust' in Him.  We read His word, pray, and listen with open hearts searching for his voice – "His Leading".  But in spite of our searching, we have still not been able to discern exactly what His will is for us.

And…We are SO Richly Blessed With Family!
 

At 61 years old, we now feel like so many years of our lives were taken up battling the insidious diseases of Fibromyalgia and Celiac.  These diseases struck early in my life, which means I have fought them for over 30 years.  They not only attacked my physical body, they were also attacking our marriage and our family at the same time.  I researched and I was the first to diagnose what was wrong, after being sick for 15 years, but it was not until around 5 years ago that God led us to a marvelous, Christian specialist.  If I had not received help when I did, I probably would not be on this earth today — or, if I was, I would most certainly be in a wheel chair.  That is what my doctor has told me.  She literally said to me that 90 to 95% of people suffering what I have would be dead by now.  Hearing that has definitely made a difference in the way we both feel about life, and our purpose here upon this earth!

A desperate woman in tears called me at home yesterday.  This was like so many other calls and emails I receive — sometimes every single day.  She has MS, as well as another serious health problem.  Her grown daughter lives at home with her because she needs a kidney and is also in very serious shape.  This woman is married, her husband has a full time job, but he still will do all he can to help his wife and daughter enjoy happy, productive lives.  She says she and her daughter are just "waiting to die".  They have no hope, they have no joy, they have no happiness, they have nothing to look forward to.  She cannot work.  She thinks every day; "What can I do?"  What can I do to bring some joy into my life?  What would my body be able to do?  Anything, Lord, anything???

Oh… this touches my heart deep within my soul!  I was there!  I know how she feels!  I remember having hope for the first few years as I prayed day after day for healing.  But, year after year, as time went on, my hope and my determination were gradually disappearing.  I couldn't take care of my children.  I felt like such a failure as a mother and a wife.  I prayed every day.  I pleaded with God; "Please God, please…show me what I need to do!  Please lead me to a doctor who understands that I am really sick and is willing to try to find out what is wrong with me.  Please give me a heart that is filled with joy and happiness as I look around at my beautiful family wanting to enjoy a 'normal' life with them.  Please give me some way to make extra money to help pay our mounting bills.  Please help me to use my artistic talents to do something, or to make something beautiful.  When each day is over, I want to feel like I have been the BEST mother I could be.  I want to feel like I have been the BEST wife I could be.  And, I want to have been able to do something creative with my hands — something that brings a smile to my face as well as to other faces that is proof – proof that Nancy was here today, that she lived her life today as best as she possibly could, and that she created something beautiful that proves she was here!"

As I was talking to this lady on the phone yesterday, she told me she wanted every product that I offered.  She had just joined our coaching club (www.BestOfNancy.com), and she wanted all of my DVDs, my "Secret Vendor List", and my wreath-making easel.  She and her daughter were SO VERY excited that they had finally found something they thought they could do that would really bring joy to each day.  Her husband was willing to figure out a way they could each work standing and sitting as needed.

I say over and over in just about everything I write that my goal is to make a difference in the lives of others as I teach them a hobby that has made such a difference in my life.  I want to give to 'you' a reason to get out of bed in the morning…to wake up with such a start of anticipation that you just cannot lie in bed, no matter how bad you feel.  Your brain starts thinking.  This makes your body be energized as it is filled with thoughts of something special you can do that day!   YOU CAN DO THIS!  Even in my weakest, darkest times, I could find a few minutes, then a few hours, and then even days when I could got my mind on something fun and exciting, I then the energy followed!  YES, YES, YES… YOU Certainly Can do this too!

This morning as I sat in church, my husband and I both felt touched by God at the same time.  We then got a glimpse of the path we are supposed to be on.  That doesn't mean it will be easy — but we were never promised that life would be easy.  We were only promised that God would always be with us – beside us.  He has been beside me/us all along as we have been on this painful journey.  We now know that we have traveled this journey so that we could help, encourage, and sympathize with others who are now on this journey.

Technically, I still have Fibromyalgia, and will always have Celiac Disease.  I eat exactly what I need to eat on my Celiac diet.  I take the supplements my Dr. says will help and even cure my body.  We are SO BLESSED!  Please let me encourage you and teach you to do something in your life which will bring a smile along with a sense of accomplishment!  And, together… "We Will Sing Until The Whole World Hears…"

"I Thank You God" By, Nancy Alexander

Blessings of Life, Health, Love & Happiness…

I've been working pretty hard in the last few weeks.  I realized that my "Secret Vendor List" had been out for exactly one year, and an update needed to be done.  At first, I thought the things that needed to be checked, and/or changed were minor – that these things wouldn't take long at all.  I could certainly get this done in just a couple of days.  Well, that thought is ALWAYS my downfall!  I am somewhat of a perfectionist, and if I'm going to do something, then, it is going to be right. 

I know you're wondering how this is getting around to blessings, right?  Well, I mentioned the update of my eBook in the first paragraph to let you know why Steve and I went to one of my supplier's warehouses last Friday.  This particular vendor/supplier did not have a catalog, or a website, so I needed to take new pictures of some of their merchandise and we planned to film a video to use to promote my book as well.  This is a three-generation wholesaler – good people – I have purchased materials and supplies from for many years.  And, since I wanted the very best information for my customers – our trip was planned.

While we were in their "huge" warehouse finishing the filming of my video, I called my friend and employee Kim asking her questions about supplies we needed.  Kim asked me how I was doing.  I hesitated just a little as I wondered why she asked that particular question, finally answering: "Fine".  Then before hanging up, I felt the urge to ask her why.

As we talked, Kim reminded me that only a few short years ago – maybe four – when I went to this warehouse to purchase materials and supplies, I had to be pushed around in a wheelchair because of the grip Fibromyalgia had on my body.  Then, she also reminded me of the years before that, when I couldn't even make the trip in a car and she went for me many times.  We hung up with a: "You Go Girl" which made me smile to myself.  But then – such a sobering thought. 

I suddenly remembered the many trips when I had to use my wheelchair.  I remembered many other places we went where we had to pull out that "shiny, metal chair on wheels".  I was embarrassed to use it, but I didn't have many options, if there were places I wanted to go.  I could stay at home – which I did do on many occasions – or I could go and let Steve or someone else push me around.  I was very self-conscious.  I didn't want people who knew me to see me in a wheelchair.  Every time I could, I would get up and walk beside it as if to show people…see…I don't really have to be riding in this thing ALL of the time!  Today, my heart breaks for those who cannot get up out of those chairs to walk beside them. 

These thoughts came flooding back as I stood in the middle of this huge warehouse talking to my friend, Kim.  I was grateful that she reminded me that day of where I had been only a few short years ago.  And, Oh God… as I am feeling SO grateful that I am not there today, I feel so unworthy that His healing grace made such a difference in me that I no longer have to use that chair. 

Do you know that on that particular Friday, we arrived at 11:30 (after spending quite a while riding in the car) and began filming with one of the owners.  I took a short break to eat after our filming session which lasted about 2 1/2 hours.  I sat in our car for less than ten minutes as I ate a few bites of my salad.  Then I quickly jumped out and began doing my shopping for the supplies I needed that day.  When we checked out and left, I noticed it was 4:30!  From 11:30 to 4:30, I had only sat down for ten minutes.  THAT IS FIVE HOURS!! The rest of my time was spent walking and filming and walking and shopping as I went back and forth over this warehouse several times looking for what I needed!  I Thank You God, that I can and have experienced YOUR Amazing Miracles for my life!  And, Jesus, PLEASE forgive me when I am not ALWAYS VERY AWARE of what YOU have done in my life! 

Now, as I am talking about blessings, I am going to back up just a little more.  For this last week, as I have been thinking about our many blessings, other thoughts have been coming to my mind.  I had sad thoughts about the pain of my chronic illness and how it had always affected any plans to host a party, or a family gathering. I suppose I am thinking about this because we will host quite a house full of people on Thanksgiving this year.

My Fibromyalgia used to make our holidays so different than they are today.  I always wanted to host family gatherings; I wanted our home to be decorated; I wanted things to be perfect.  I wanted wonderful smells coming from my kitchen with tables set up adorned with beautiful table cloths, our best china, and eye-catching centerpieces appropriate for each holiday.

But my body would never cooperate when it came time to clean and cook and do all of these fun (and, I thought, necessary) things like decorating and having the garden and yard looking 'perfect'.  This left my dear, sweet husband, Steve stuck with lists of tasks he really didn't enjoy doing – but since he also looked forward to having family over just as I did, he tackled these mundane tasks getting them done without complaining. 

When I think back, I let chronic, constant pain cloud my thoughts, my heart, and my eyes when it came to everything my dear Steve was doing to make these gatherings be all that I wanted them to be.  I never really showed him the appreciation I felt within my heart for his support, and constant help as he went through those long lists of things needing to be accomplished.  I LOVE YOU My Darling Steve…and am TRULY grateful that you were always here by my side taking care of me and doing whatever else needed to be done.

Things ARE different around our home now!  We still host parties and family gatherings every chance we get!  I am so grateful that Steve and I are working right along beside each other cooking, cleaning, and decorating as we prepare for the arrival of our guests.  No, Steve doesn't necessarily HAVE to help me now…and no, I don't always necessarily HAVE to ask for his help.  My body is different now.  I can do most of the things I want to do as we enjoy our family.  I don't have long lists of things for Steve to do.  Our garden and our yard may…or may not…be 'perfect'! 

You see, I have learned a very important lesson!  All of the above things don't matter!  They are not what's most important!  We (Steve and I) are together!  We love, and cherish each other.  We enjoy doing things together!  We enjoy hosting parties and meals together!  But, it is life, it is people, it is friendships, it is family, it is love, and…it is God's grace.  Those are the things that matter now!  The long "to do" lists don't exist anymore!  It doesn't matter if the grass is cut, if the leaves are covering the driveway, if the weeds are taller than the flowers and bushes in our flower beds.  We are together, we are in love, we are happy, we are blessed with our children and precious grandchildren and we thank our God above for it all. 

We don't know what awaits us tomorrow.  But, for today, we are filled with grateful hearts that we can live, love, and experience JOY, PEACE, and HAPPINESS…one day at a time!

"Decorating for Christmas" By, Nancy Alexander

I'm Receiving MANY Requests for Pictures of our Home at Christmas…

So many of you lately have been sending me requests for pictures of our home at Christmastime!  I thought I had some posted somewhere, and I can't find them online either!  So, I'll put a few pictures here.  I have had one special request for the wreath I made out of my Grandmother's old ornaments and lights which I hang inside my kitchen window every year.  This one is not as fancy and pretty as those we make and sell online, but it fills and warms my heart with so many fond memories with each glance.

Now, these are not of our home this year, because I have been so busy re-writing my Secret Vendor List, working on wreaths, selling on Amazon, and getting other eBooks listed in Amazon Kindle that I haven't had time to think about decorating!  I wonder why!!  )

I really LOVE filling up my kitchen window at Christmas!  I change it every year!  But, there are two things that always stay the same…first, I ALWAYS use my favorite antique stained glass windows which are propped up on my window ledge.  Those are there year round because the morning sunlight shining through them everyday warms my heart — it us such a great way to start my morning.  And, secondly, at Christmas, my wreath you can see in the picture below ALWAYS hangs on the inside of my window.  It is filled with old ornaments, balls, and antique lights (which actually still work) that all belonged to my dear grandmother "Mama"…  I miss her so, but when I look at this wreath at Christmas, I am reminded how much she loved Christmas!  Actually, I think she is the one I inherited my own love of color and decorating from!  "Thank you…dear Mama"

My kitchen window at Christmas is probably my most favorite place to decorate.  Sometimes I use poinsettias, and sometimes, I use live orchids.  I really like live orchids, and from time to time, can keep them alive for a couple of years!  lol

I have a lot of fun filling my table for Holiday parties.  I usually use all fresh — I know, I know — that seems unusual huh, since I work with and sell artificial!  Well, I just LOVE the fresh look of greens and berries and even more so when Christmas arrives.  I have many antique dishes, platters and vases which I pull out and use for our parties.  Some of these were pieces which have been in my family for many years, but, also, some of them are special 'yard sale finds'. 

I'll add some more pictures of "our" home at Christmas in the next few days… in the meantime, please have fun decorating your own home!  Pull out old platters and dishes which belonged to your mother, grandmother, or other family member.  Lay out an old child's storybook about Christmas.  I have the one I was given at 4 years old, and it goes out to my coffee table each and every Christmas!  Look for the Christmas stocking which hung from your mantle as a child.  It doesn't matter that they are too old to fill with treats anymore – just enjoy them – enjoy the memories they bring from the special places they hold within your heart!

"Hope When You're Physically Down" By, Nancy Alexander

Beauty in Nature CAN Inspire Hope…

How do you keep going when you're physically down?  I keep getting asked this question over and over.  WOW, where do I start? 

First of all, there is one thing that I find really helps me and I encourage you to do this too.  I want to encourage you to appreciate the beauty found around you today in a smile, in nature, and in those who are dear to you.  I have learned through my own chronic illness that the things I always thought were the most important in this life really aren't.

"I am only passing through this moment…"  ~Beth Moore~

Chronic Illnesses are as severe a problem for you as they were for me.  Pain was the main focus of my life for so many years.  It colored the way I thought and felt, and reacted to the world around me.  I had to learn this the hard way.  I used to beg and plead with God;  "Please show me what I need to do – please show me what I need to change – please teach me the lessons I need to learn – I will do anything to only get well or even better."  God, in His wisdom knew that the lessons I needed to learn came only with time.  As always, He sees "Eternity" and we see "right now".

Picture I took recently of a Night blooming Cereus at my neighbor's home.

It is hard to see the beauty in a flower, a sunset or sunrise, or even a loved one's eyes when you are suffering in silence.  It is hard to think of doing something that would make your day productive when it is clouded with this "thing" which has such a deep, dark hold on you.  It is hard to see the needs of others when your own pain is first and foremost in every single day.  God used this to mold me and shape me and prune me.  All of these were painful experiences, but I truly believe He did this so that my heart would be one that would 'break' for others.  I see your pain, I feel your pain, and I sincerely want to do anything I can to relieve your pain and make your life joyful!

The answer for me was, and is God!  I don't know where I would be today without all of the miracles God worked in my life.  I do know that I would not be sitting here at my computer writing to all of you, my friends, students, and faithful followers were it not for God and all the Miracles 'He' has performed in my life.  For example, all of the "Professionals" who were finally able to diagnose and treat the causes of my chronic, debilitating illness.  This illness was so bad that when we built our home 12 years ago, my husband and our builder decided to make every doorway 3 feet wide because they thought I would very quickly need that space to maneuver a wheelchair through each.  I didn't find this out until about 3 year ago.  And, no, I no longer need that wheelchair that I used to be forced to use from time to time.

I am speechless when I think of the people who were sent into my life to encourage, uplift, inspire, diagnose and help me to heal.  My friend and mentor, Jim Cockrum and I have talked about this many times calling them "Divine Appointments".  You may not believe in them, but I certainly do.

I don't want to push my faith on you knowing that every person has their own beliefs, but in telling a story of me; "Beautifully Broken Me" as my friend Molly Alexander writes in her blog, I cannot forget the obvious and must share with you how I got to this point in my life.  That's what many of you have been asking me all these years.  I do believe God has led me on a path for many years for a specific purpose, and that is to be able to help and encourage YOU!

"By picking up the pieces of a broken life and putting them back together, a person cannot help but be changed.  This change is a beautiful thing that results in a deeper understanding of others and their situations, and gives us a chance to share our experiences with them, showing them that there is a way out – a light at the end of the tunnel."

"I believe that I have not just been broken, but put back together by God in a beautiful way – a way that I could have never imagined on my own."  ~Molly Alexander~

Molly has expressed my own thoughts and feelings in such a beautiful way.  Isn't it amazing that I can now see, live, and enjoy the beauty around me?  I am blessed every time I look into my husband's eyes and see how much he cherishes me.  I am blessed when our home is filled with our boys, their wives, and our four precious grandchildren running around calling "Mimi come outside and play with me." "Mimi do you have a surprise for me?"   "Mimi, read to me."

God has used over 30 years of pain and brokenness to bring me to this place; this moment, where I am right here and right now.  He brought me here for a very specific reason and that is to be an encourager of those of you who are suffering and in pain!  There TRULY is hope!