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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Kindness Matters

Coffee of the Day - White Chocolate Coconut

This post has been a long time coming....it's going to be a bit long and nothing crafty about it, so please bear with me. jump right over it if you would like. or just flat out don't read it. won't hurt my feelings any. you do have that right, just as I have the right to type what I choose on my blog. I try to be kind and as positive as I can be during whatever is going on in my life at the time - but let's face it, life is not always easy, kind. or fair. it's our own reaction to it and the choice we make in those responses that makes the differences. Kindness does still matter, folks.

I discovered a few days ago that I have been let go from yet another DT without any notification whatsoever. I get that I am not a constant contributor. you don't have to tell me that. no one knows better than I that I am not the best DT member in town. I have no problem at all with a store or company or challenge blog letting me go, please understand that first and foremost. what I do have a hard time understanding is that this is the 3rd or 4th (I've lost count in the past few months....) DT that has let me go with no communication at all. no emails, no phone calls, no contact. just suddenly I am locked out of a group or removed from the blog site with no advance warning. It seems a bit cold.

In this day and age of instant everything, it only takes 2 or 3 minutes to send an email or text. if that long. I guess I don't understand why everyone thinks that it is acceptable to just ignore the fat bald woman who is sick..... do they think that just because I am dying that my feelings are dead, too?

I am trying the very best I can every day to get through. it is not easy. my family is gone for the summer. I see them for a few short hours on Saturday before they return to Camp. Chemo has made me more sick than you can possibly imagine. We have discovered that there may be permanent damage caused by the chemo treatments, but won't know for certain for several months. I craft when I can because I NEED to. I only wish I could do it more....so I craft as much as I can when I can to try to do my best for the DTs I am still a part of. and because I need to keep my mind as busy as possible to keep from sliding into the black hole of depression. my body feels like crap, but I push myself to stay out of bed as much as possible. yes, I sleep and rest. but if I were to stay in bed as much as I wanted to, I would never get out. and that is mentally not a good place for me to be.....

every time I look in a mirror I am reminded that I am fighting a battle right now. my skin is grey and covered in horrible sores. teeth have fallen out, and the ones I have left are a scary color. obviously I have no hair. I have puffed up life a butterball because of all of the medications given to counteract the reactions to the chemo. my fingernails and toenails are brittle and fall apart. there is nothing feminine about me remaining. I don't recognize this thing in the mirror. cancer truly is a monster and yet people have told me that I am lucky to have it, another that it is a gift from God. no, I don't think it is any of these things.

I MUST look for the blessings every day or this monster will win. I must show my children that there is a reason to smile every day, even if you have to search and search and search to find out what that reason is. so call me silly for finding joy in the birds singing. laugh at me or call me names for enjoying the taste of my coffee.

but understand this, every single person in this world has some kind of mountain they must climb; some kind of battle they must fight, some kind of cross they must carry. and to that person it is a struggle. please understand that even the smallest showing of compassion can lighten the load or give the extra bit of courage to carry on. it takes so little kindness to light the fire of hope. Kindness matters.

53 comments:

Unknown said...

Oh sweetie - I am sending you a HUGE hug xxx

terriavidreader (IN-USA) said...

Jennifer, you do still count! You are one of the most unselfish people I have met in this "blogland". SHAME on those teams for just dropping you without a word of any kind. They could easily have written that since you are struggling with other things, they were letting you step down for the interim. Let me know which ones and I'll stop patronizing them - shop, challenge or whatever.
And PLEASE, hang in there. Nobody said it would be easy but I believe you are a fighter for things you believe in, and you need to believe in yourself!

Linda Wescott said...

I'm sorry to hear that anyone has treated you so shabbily, I echo the comments above that you are one of the sweetest, kindest person I've met though blogging. I'm glad you can count your blessings, it's the small things that you notice when bought so low with any illness...no one can take that away from you can they. My daughters main pleasure in life is listening to the birds singing outside. Keep fighting girl, forget those who aren't worthy of your notice. Big hugs. Lin

Helen said...

That's appalling behaviour!
You're so right....kindness does matter...a great deal in fact, and it cost's nothing to ask how someone's doing, and to be respectful of their feelings.
I for one, am honoured to be on the Pile It On DT with you, and as you know, we're not letting you go anywhere!
Take strength from the support from our (mostly) wonderful online crafting community, and don't let the b*stards get you down. You truly are an inspirational woman.
Much love, Helen x

kramer_buffy said...

DARN it... I just want to HUG you HARD (not too hard it hurts, but hard enough to say I LOVE YOU!). You are one TOUGH cookie, and I can't believe how lucky I have been to meet you in this HUGE world of the internet.

I think it is this fast fast world of technology that is leaving our people with no knowledge of how to be "human" and compassionate.

Stay strong, we are here for you!

-- dalis

Melissa S. said...

Good morning Jennifer. I hope that you know that there are a ton of us out here that are cheering you on and so wish we could make you smile a little more each day. This is a wonderful post and I'm sorry that there are inconsiderate people in the world. You are a wonderful careing wife, mother and friend to all of us and I just wanted to send you a hug this morning. Thinking of you!

CG said...

YOU are a blessing to me every day.

julie e said...

I have admired your positive attitude and willingness to share the challenges you face. They have helped me keep perspective on my personal challenges and focused on the importance of personal growth. Not only do you still count, you provide inspiration and a role model for me. Thank you.

Nancy said...

Oh, Jennifer! I think you already know my thoughts on kindness! ;o) Thank you for sharing yours!
I too live with a "thorn" in my flesh! I understand much of what you are dealing with, although on a smaller scale! You, my friend, are dealing with a log! However, I totally understand the fight to get out of bed each day, the need to find the distraction from the pain, and the necessity to seek out JOY! Also, the NEED to create when able for the sake of sanity...such as it is! lol It is a choice...yet one that must be made in order to live! You are doing just fine! God is good, and He is faithful! You just keep hanging onto that, dear Jennifer! Nothing else really matters! We'll just pray for those that don't get it yet!...Nancy :o)

Katie said...

Jennifer,
That is just awful for a DT to do that, gosh I thought crafters were compassionate people.
Life has dealt you one of the worst hands and no one needs to make that any worse.
Shame on them.
I'm sending big cyber hugs and I hope there is a little sunshine in each day, you certainly deserve it.
Katie

Chris said...

Dear Jen,
I would find nothing more satisfying than to kick those dirty birds to unspeakable places and back.
You are one strong, courageous, kind and beautiful woman. The wrapping may be a little frayed but nothing can damage the light shining from within.
Stay strong and forget those idiots. Just play with the nice guys.
Hugs.

Norma Gomez said...

Hi Jennifer, I'm so sorry to hear what your going through and that you've been treating so unfairly. I'm sending you HUGE hugs and prayers to you and your family.

Tracy said...

You know, I'm not even going to comment on the DT business cause I think you've summed it up perfectly. Common courtesy seems to have flown out the window these days. I will say that I am so SOOO sorry that you have been hurt by apparently several teams.
Do I think you're lucky to have cancer or that it is a gift from God? Heavens no! Is it a trial God has placed in your path? Most definitely and I for one think you're passing this test with flying colors. I've said it before and I'll say it again. Your beautiful spirit through this ordeal glorifies our heavenly Father. I know it's hard on you to see the transformation of your appearance but I hope you know that beauty glows all around you.
Please don't let all this hurtful business get you down. Your true friends love you and appreciate your sweet character, encouraging words, determination, and crafty abilities. You're a true gem to us! Sending big sqooshy hugs! Tracy

Penny said...

Jennifer, I am so sorry for all that you are going through right now, both physically and emotionally. Please know that there are many of us out here cheering you on and praying for your recovery. Sending you lots of hugs,
Penny

Suzie McFloozy said...

Well my dear friend I do not know where to start ! While I would love you to name and shame those inconsiderate, rude and totally inconsiderate DT's I know that the goodness in you wouldn't permit it so I won't even ask - but if they are reading this SHAME ON YOU.
To say that kindness matters is an understatement and as my mother taught me it costs nothing to give and means the world to the reciever - kind words and a smile can make the day a better one.
YOU are the MOST considerate lady I have ever "met" and your ability to look this horrid disease in the eye and stay positive and strong for your family amazes me every day x
If you ever need a kind word or a big virtual hug then, friend, you can always count on me x
((hugs)) Suzie xoxo

craftjunkiesc said...

Well that just SUCKS, huh? I'm so sorry you've been hurt by such inconsiderate folks. I say it's their loss at this point. I understand that having those challenges or commitments give you something else to focus on & a reason to get up some days. Believe me when I tell you, "It does get better." I promise it does. I'm living proof. You're strength & positive outlook are just amazing to me. Keep that outlook and forget those curmudgeons. There are more important things for you to focus on right now. Like kicking cancer's A$$! {HUGS}

BethieJ said...

JENNIFER!!! I WISH WISH WISH there was more I can do... then say this I think of you daily and keep you in my prayers.. as for the DT.. you know we LOVE and ADORE you at PIO and will ALWAYS have a place with us! and It is the OTHER TEAMS that have the problem.. shame on them.. I wish you posted who.. I would stop playing along.. how TERRIBLE is that for them to do to you! You are a FABULOUS person!! I ADMIRE your strength and determination!!
Hoping you have a GREAT day, and enjoy your coffee ANYWAY you want my friend!!! (((HUGS)))

Sandy S said...

Jennifer... you are my inspiration her in blogland...your strength, faith & positiveness is.. is... is hard to find the words....
It is appalling that DTs would not take the moment to contact you & what is bothersome is that you've been more than upfront of your situation... and wouldn't they be following or aware from your blog posts... just doesn't make sense...
your kindness and support that you extend to your blog-buddies is incredible and know that you have a whole ton of support, love, prayers here in blogland for you... And even though your outward appearance is a C-monster and people can't comprehend, it that God doesn't care what you look like on the outside - its what's inside that counts...

Elizabeth Hart said...

Jennifer - kindness does matter and it is apparent that you try to exhibit this characteristic to others that you encounter in life. I wish so very much that I could end the thoughtless behavior of others. Focus on the positive. Everyone loves you at PIO. Elizabeth

Rhonda Miller said...

Oh Jen, I'm sending you some BIG cyber hugs. You are amazing. I cannot even imagine what you go through each day and to have to deal with something like this on top of it doesn't help at all. I just want you to know that I am always thinking of you and have you continually in my prayers.

Dorte said...

Hi Jennifer!
My DT teamie Helen send me here to read your story. I'm speechless!!! Horrible people, letting you down like that!!
All I can say is; sending you big cyber hugs, keep on fighting!
hugs Dorte

Anne-Marie said...

To use a very English saying: I'm gobsmacked!!
Everything I want to say has been uttered in the above comments.
I feel for you, sweetie, but they are not worthy of you....hang in, there, and don't let them get to you....they don't matter....YOU DO!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jennifer I am really appalled that people especially women can treat you this way and I would have to say that you are 100% stronger, kinder, better than them! It cost nothing to be nice and takes no effort to be that way! and you can stand taller and be stronger knowing that all the lovely people that left messages here for you care for you!

I DON'T understand why they have treated you in this way and Blogging and challenges are supposed to be fun and a great way of finding friends and enjoying in together for without each other here in blogland! YOU count and you mean everything thing to us ladies here!!

and draw strength knowing we are thinking of you!!

I am also emailing you! hugs me xx

Tracey said...

I can't believe you've been let down by another DT with no communication, like you say there is just no need for it, I just can't understand it.
You know what I think of you Jennifer & what an amazing special person you are :)
All I can say is it is Their Loss!
There are many more people who think the world of you.
Take care
Love ya!
Tracey
xx

Lorraine A said...

oh my goodness ,,,, sending a HUGE hug xxxx the vast majority of blogland is behind you and we will walk by your side and prop you up when you need it hun xx ,,,, You fight this and we will help you me darlin xxxx

shame on them ,,,

luv
Lols x x x

K Clark said...

oh Jennifer... since coming to the bloggy world I have found you to be an incredibly strong person and I have faith that you will fight off this monster Cancer!!! I love being on the Pile it on team with you and we are not going to let you go at all!!! I am shocked that you would be let go from a team with no communication!! wow... I always though more of our crafty community and it saddens me to see you treated like this!!! If I can be of any help to you please PLEASE let me know - you know Ohio isn't that far from Ontario - couple hours drive and I will be there :)
sending you love and prayers!!!!!

Helen said...

This makes me so sad, Jennifer, that people can be so cruel and unkind when you are dealing with so much. I've loved your cards and have drawn inspiration from them, and have been rooting for you and your family as you go through this battle. Keep your chin up and draw hope in our Lord who knows all the hurt his precious daughter is feeling. You are a true inspiration.
Helen x

ThePurplePlace said...

Oh My GOD!!

I can hardly even believe what I am reading and I'm stunned and shocked at just how heartless some people can be. I will never EVER in my life understand why ANY person in the world, would ever want to HURT another...WHY? What good does it do? This is something that I've never understood, and likely never will. Goodness knows we all do not have to like each other, but I can not stand or tolerate mean, unkind and cruel people, who seem to have nothing better to do than cause trouble of upset others.

To think that ANY Design Team would treat you in such a horrible way, is totally beyond me. I can't being to comprehend WHY that would EVER happen....even if YOU were NOT battling cancer, it still is simply at matter of being decent and considerate. If any team did not feel you were keeping up....shame on them for not having more understanding and compassion...what a shame that they put their business before that of another human being....! I am so upset and totally blown away to possibly begin to understand such horrible behavior.

No one should EVER EVER be treated this way....in good times or bad. I'm so stunned and find it truly hurtful and rude. WHY and HOW could this happen. If they really had a problem, why did they not take the time to communicate with you, give you all the time you needed, or they could have offered you an LOA, or even made you an honorary member of their team? But to let you go and not even had the decency to write or call you??? I'm shocked and feel devastated for you and all to think that you have had to bear this more than once? How could they do that to you...you are by far one of the kindness, sweetest and more caring people I've ever met and I've always been so happy that we met. They've made a huge mistake and lost out on a wonderful friendship....but as the others have said....this is THEIR loss ! A huge loss too!!

WHY??? And what good can this possibly do for anyone...not to even mention, to think about doing this to you at a time, when you are battling such a tough illness...and to have no thought or concern about how much this is hurting you and all those who care for you....! What a pathetic way for any person to treat anyone...ever!! I truly WISH I knew who did this to you, and I do hope in time you'll share, because I, for one, want nothing to do with any person or company who treated you this way! I am so so sorry that happened and can't begin to express how upsetting this is to read...my thoughts are with you and please know you have tons of people who CARE about you and would never ever do this to you!

My heart is deeply saddened to think of how this must have hurt you, and to think that this has happened more than once---is truly heartbreaking. I am so so very sorry that you've been put through this emotional upset and shame on them ALL for being SO very heartless, uncaring and rude.

I think of you every day and how it must be for you to be fighting this battle and also feel it's so unfair....that such a good and kind person, has to be stricken with such a horrific illness...Cancer is dreadful for all and I will continue to pray YOU will your battle and that we get closer and closer each day to a cure.

For those who let you go....I hope they have read your post and can only PRAY that maybe they will some how see how much they have upset YOU and all those who care about you...! I am so so sorry and I can't begin to tell you how upsetting this was to read!!

God Bless you and THANK YOU for taking the time to share this awful news...My God -- What in the world is has gone so wrong that so many people are so selfish and hurtful...!! It is really another wake-up call to me of how many people can sit and hide behind their computer screen pretending to be something they are NOT.

Please know I care and I'm here for you and you can call, write or vent to me at anytime. I'm honored to call you my friend and proud to be one too!

Hugs and love,
Lisa

MicheleV said...

Hi Jen!
Big hugs to you - your post says it all and yes kindness does still matter!
I look forward to reading your posts - always. I think you have one amazing spirit and no one or nothing should be able to take that from you - you own it girl!
Keep on doing what you love!
Cheers
Michele V

Ann Marie said...

Add me to the list of shocked and appalled readers who think those DTs that dropped you like a hot potato are RUDE. I am a BC survivor and I think you are handling your bout with cancer with dignity and aplomb!

In fact I borrowed your quote from Your post "but understand this, every single person in this world has some kind of mountain they must climb; some kind of battle they must fight, some kind of cross they must carry. and to that person it is a struggle. please understand that even the smallest showing of compassion can lighten the load or give the extra bit of courage to carry on. it takes so little kindness to light the fire of hope. Kindness matters." i have posted it as my facebook status as it touched me so deeply! My hugs and prayers to you!

Pam said...

Jennifer,

I am so sorry that this has happened to you. :( I admire you so much for your continue postive outlook during this terrible time. I can not even imagine what you are going through with the cancer and the treatments and that you try so hard to stay creative and be so upbeat is such an inspiration to me and alot of others. Don't let the thoughtless behaviors of some bring you down, just know that many of us are so impressed with your spirt and talents and that we will be praying for you and your family!!!
{{{HUGS}}}
Pam

Nancy said...

Dear Jennifer, it makes me so sad and angry to know that there are such cruel and unkind people in this business. I am so sorry to hear that you have been treated this way.

Praying for you and sending good thoughts and warm hugs your way. oxoxo

TLC DESIGNS, LLC said...

I'm so glad to have found you today Jennifer. I've taken a peek and your work is lovely! Instead of pretending that I'm aware of how you feel every day when you force yourself to get out of bed and struggle with disease, loneliness and disappointment, I think that the kindest thing I could do is to send compassion, friendship and hope. I do know that only a few people I've met in blogland are as powerful as you on the inside and that whenever or whomever you can remain designing for are truly blessed to have you. I wish you only the best! I'm lucky to have found so much strength in just one little spot! Thank YOU!
Hugs hun
Tammy Louise

Lisa Minckler said...

Wow, word gets around quick in blogland, what with our little network of supportive crafters and I am so glad I was steered to your blog. Your blog is beautiful and your work has been a total BLAST to look at.
I realize I don't know you, but after reading your post, I just have to say that was absolutely inspirational and certainly great advice to live by. You are obviously holding your head high in the midst of adversity and that in itself is a triumph and a true indication of your character. Every situation reveals a lesson to be learned and perhaps what happened to you was intended so that could reach out to others with wisdom and undersanding and inspire those who read it. It certainly inspired and encouraged me.
I still apologize for the behavior of those who saw fit to cause you sadness and I hope that others on those teams will break the mold and reach out to you in friendship and see the bigger picture.
I hope you know you have a special gift of touching people's hearts...you've certainly touched mine. :)
Prayers, hugs and all that other encouraging mushy stuff..LOL
Lisa xx

Jennifer said...

Jennifer I have just got to reading this today! my tears for you are for the truth you've shared! I really respect that you share truth and I'm so sorry that others have been so unkind and thoughtless! I don't believe that God would give anyone cancer or any other disease. but I do know that He will draw you to Himself in it! May you, if you ever wonder sit at the Lord Jesus' feet and know how very precious you are! I know that you feel like a monster at times, but God can see the real you, and you truly are beautiful! Hugs

Paper Crafts & Scrapbooking Editor said...

These are such dark days, Jennifer. Your courage to speak so honestly about the truth that you live in speaks more about your beauty than you know. You may not feel beautiful, but you are, my friend. Your beauty is the light that shines on all of us which we receive with love and turn back onto you, in the hopes that it can help you heal, make your burden less heavy, and bring you some comfort in knowing how much you are truly loved.

This fight is hard. This fight is long. But you are fighting, and we are all fighting right along your side!

Shelly Schmidt said...

WOW- that is so not positive! I have a great couple of DT's where people have issues- both are beyond understanding! One in fact has free BCA digi's each month- you should go check it out as this month it is just awesome!!! Blessings to you!

IamDerby said...

Jennifer, I am so sorry people have been so horrible to you. Clearly cancer is not a gift. Sometimes I seriously wonder what the h*ll is wrong with people. I am sorry you are feeling so down and out, it must be hard to brave and keep on putting one foot in front of the other. As I have never had to deal with anything as challenging as cancer I have no idea how you feel but I can sympathize and I do. Sending you hope, faith, prayers and love.

Nancy M said...

WOWZERS--that was thoughtless and unkind of each and every one of them!! Shame on them, and I mean that!!
Most importantly, you are strong, your are a fighter, you have the best attitude!! KEEP crafting, KEEP blogging, KEEP ON KEEPING ON!! There are loads of great people in this world, try as hard as you can to focus on them and their energies and not the sucky ppl, OK?!
PS I've had cancer FOUR times. All the best to you!!

Kim said...

Your post moved me! I must say it is inspiring that someone like yourself, dealing with so much, still understands and accepts that it is truly the small things in life that count the most, including kindness! I wish you strength and courage in your battle against cancer, and faith and hope in your battle against the unkind!

Renee B. said...

Oh Jennifer, my heart is hurting so much for you right now! How can anyone be so thoughtless & unkind as those DT's? Keep your chin up girl because you are one of the most amazing people I have ever had the honor of knowing & those nasties don't deserve to have you work your crafty magic for them!!! When I joined "Blogland" in Nov. I couldn't wait to read your posts...they were always so upbeat & funny. When your cancer reared it's ugly head you still maintained that wicked sense of humour...many times you have had me laughing & crying all in the same post! What I admire most about you is your honesty. You are so open about this horrible fight you are in & I think I speak for just about everyone who has posted here when I say "YOU ARE SUCH AN INSPIRATION!" I didn't think it was possible to love someone you have never met....but I love you girl & I'm praying for you. To those rotten DT's....I hope you are all ashamed of yourselves & I hope your crafty talents dry up forever!
Keep fighting the fight Jen!
Hugs,
Renee

Little K Smith said...

Hi Jennifer
I'm new to your fabulous blog and just can't believe people can be so awful to you! I can't imagine what it's like to be in your shoes at the moment but you sound like a very strong and determined lady. Wishing you all the best and keep on crafting :)
Kelly.x

Lacey Stephens said...

I am so shocked and sad to read this post. I am on the ABC Christmas DT and Helen pointed out your blog to our team. I am the lead on 3 DT and I am shocked that this has happened to you so many times. It really makes me mad that people could be so mean. I really doesn't take that much effort to reach out to someone! I am sorry this has happened to you.
I pray that God will give you 100% healing. And in the mean time, I pray that He surrounds you with loving and caring support to help you through these dark times.
~Lacey

Michelle VP said...

{big hugs} I'm so sorry you were treated that way. It's just not right and I agree 100% that kindness matters. I would welcome you with open arms back to our PMS Digi Makeover group, even if you weren't ever able to make another sample for us. It would just be nice to have you there again. :) I know we parted on good terms when you had to step down a few months ago and that was before you began your cancer journey. I am so inspired by your determination to look for the blessings every day and to make an effort to keep moving and keep doing. Thank you for sharing yourself with us here on your blog. :)

Shirley said...

Jennifer, I don't get here often, but you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Needing to check on you and found this post. Who knew that DTs had the manners of Corporate America. Shame on them.

You are truly one of the most upbeat, kind people that I've run across in Blogland, and this journey you're own doesn't need any help to make it tougher. Sending cyber hugs, love and prayers your way.

Linda McClain said...

Jennifer, I'm just speechless. You and I both coordinate design teams and we both know it's so unnecessary to be so unkind. It sounds like people who are taking themselves and their function way too seriously. This is paper crafting people! And, to be so cruel as to say this cancer is a gift or some terrible test from God - I just don't get it. My God doesn't work that way. You've taken on the most incredible challenge I can possibly imagine with such grace. You really are my hero. I'm sorry for all you're going through and I wish there was a way we could carry some of the burden for you to at least give you a little break. Hugs, my love!

Caroljenks said...

OMGness Jennifer, I can not believe that any DT has behaved in such a selfish, unthoughtful, heartless, spiteful, (I could go on ...) way! How dare they treat you that way - it's not as if they were paying you a premium wage with bonus' that weren't being met! I'm just gobsmaked!

Your post is so touching and you have a wonderful way with words. I was there with you, looking in the mirror and I wont for one second patronise you by saying I know how you feel - I don't and I can't even begin to imagine how you feel on some days.
However, I can tell from reading this post that on a good day you are a force to be reckoned with!

I'm sending you lots of cyber love and look forward to getting to know you a little bit more ;)

Carol x

Unknown said...

Don't have much to add to what everyone else has said, just sending you a cyber hug. Hang in there sweetie.

Lindsay Craftymonster81 said...

Hi, this was pointed out to me by one of my DT members who was visiting your blog to view your entry to our challenge. I am sorry that these people felt that they didn't need to have the politeness and decency to at least contact you and let you know what was going on, as you say it takes but a few moments. I would just like to say that I have watched my grandmother, my uncle and my father all die from cancer (although technically it was the chemo that killed my dad in the end as he died of toxic shock) you are very right when you say that cancer is a monster and the treatment is sometimes as bad as the disease itself, anyone that says it's a gift from god is clearly a little twisted and has never been unfortunate enough to experience what it does to people. Anyway the point I wanted to make was that I have seen what it does and I just wanted to say that anyone that can keep there chin up and keep crafting (or doing anything at all for that matter) whilst fighting this illness is a very courageous and strong person. Please try not to let these people bring you down
Lindsay xx

Dragonlady said...

Hi Jennifer

I really can't understand how people can be so horrible. I admire your courage and have loved being on teams with you. All I can say is that you are one hell of a lady and my life is better for knowing you. I love your addiction to coffee and am only sorry that I cannot give you a real hug. A cyber one will have to do. Kindness does matter.

Hugs from Ali x

Unknown said...

Hi Jennifer! It's strange sometimes how life throws us in different directions and we sometimes never understand why. I have been so busy lately that I don't know if I am coming or going. I haven't or should I say taken the time to blog hop with my friends or design team who visit me rather I post daily or weekly. In other words I have not been a very good supporter. I saw you in The Outlawz the other day and thought to myself there is a name I recognize, but I wasn't sure from where decides this huge cyber craft world we live in. Tonight I had a strong feeling to visit Jessica's blog. She is so sweet and I was reading the contest post. I thought it was pretty cool for I could choose which project I really like instead of out of knowing the person and being asked to go vote for them. I looked real hard at each one and was trying to decide who put the most thought and time into their creation. This is a long story.... Anyway, for some reason I wanted to know what each person did and how much time they invested to make their pretty cards and layout and started going to the different blogs to see. I landed here and read what you wrote about the cancer and DT's and wanted to know more so I kept scrolling down until I read this post. I am so very, very sorry this has happened to you. You have been handed a very hard battle to fight and have so much on your plate... I cannot understand why someone would treat you or ANY human being with no regard to their feelings. I am appalled by such behavior and I want you to know you are welcome on my team anytime. I have a total of 62 designers and know each and every one of them to a great degree. When one gets ill and wants to step down I give them the option to go on a leave of absence until they can return and their name remains on the dT list and they can still enter the DT area. If they need to still step down they know the door is always open to return. We are a family, a community and your welcome to be a part of it. God bless you and keep you in his care. You are an amazing person with strength some people only dream about. Hugz

Sandi said...

Dear sweet Jennifer, I too have had to battle the big C this year and know how it can get you down but you just hang in there. I am so lucky to have wonderful family and friends that were there for me and you will see that over at the Outlawz we are all family so welcome dear sister! If you ever need a shoulder I will be here for you. Huggs Sandi

Unknown said...

A beautifully written post!

You are such a bright light in this blog world...My heart is encouraged by your sweet, simple joy in the little things...finding happiness, despite your struggle.

I really do think of you often...If anything, God has surely used this time on YOUR life to touch others. I know you will look back on this struggle someday and fell like you BEAT the monster!! You are an awesome woman/crafter...

Don't be discouraged by the thoughtlessness of others. I'm sorry they did this to you!

Have a great week, friend!
xx