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Hope

It's Thursday.  Thursday?  How did that happen?  It's been one of those weeks.  You know, the week that does not go according to plan and just kind of takes on a life of its own?  Yep, that's the kind of week it's been for me.  This card took a combined total of 25 minutes to make over the span of 5 days.  And now it's taken me 2 days to find time to post it.  :)




The week started out on Monday, when after a night of little to no sleep between the twins, I grabbed Trevor to take him downstairs for another feeding.  Somehow I tripped over my own feet and fell down a couple of stairs to the landing.  Trevor was fine (actually giggling a little bit at the fun ride)... my toe... and ankle... and knee were less than fine (and NOT giggling at all).  After a lot of waiting between calling the doctor's office, going to urgent care, getting x-rays, waiting for results, going to pharmacy, waiting, waiting to talk to pharmacist, finding out that the Dr. had prescribed a medication with codeine in it, which I'm allergic to and her office was now closed, I realized that somewhere along the way I had lost my iPhone.  So home I went to check out my iPad find my phone app.  Luckily the phone was recoverable.  Hooray

No sleep for mama that night.  One of the boys was up every hour and my foot was throbbing.  In the morning I drug myself off the couch, fed the boys, readying myself to do a little work and... the power went out.  And stayed out for 3.5 hours.  Which was really upsetting to the boys, since their swings wouldn't swing and they REALLY wanted them to!  Power was still out when it was time to leave for my haircut appointment and I had to pull the emergency cord on the garage door, then try to hop on my good leg while trying to pull the garage door (which has no handles) open and closed by myself in the wind and rain.  I kept looking around hoping none of the neighbors were peeking out their windows staring at the crazy lady!  LOL

Finally something went right and I love how my new color and style turned out.  I felt so good about my new look (might have been the pain meds talking) I decided on the spur of the moment to walk in and get my nails done by some Vietnamese guy named Steven whom I had NO IDEA what he was saying.  All I understood was, "gels good.  you no wreck nails.  you LOVE what Steven do for you."  A very comical half hour passed as I received the second manicure of my life and listened to The Steven Show without understanding a word.  {grin}

Home again to find out there's more drama with our vendor and our stamp order has been delayed... AGAIN.  I'm beginning to think it's the plight of a crazy woman to attempt to run a business and take care of twins... even WITH a part time nanny.  There's so much stuff at Verve that needs daily attention that I just can't give.

I know that every person has their own life struggles and battles and our own always seem so much larger than life.  But it ain't easy being me right now. In fact, it's really, REALLY hard! I hate to sound all whiny... but it's true and I'm just being REAL.  This twin thing is the hardest thing I've ever done in my life.  Each day is a struggle and the boys are relentless. R-E-L-E-N-T-L-E-S-S.  I know, they look like such sweet little angels all happy and smiling for the camera, but it's behind the scenes that the "real" life happens.  More often than not, It's the screaming fits and the blank expressions that fill the days.


Nobody said it would be easy, but they also didn't mention the times you'd be so tired and cranky and one twin is pooping in your hand because you started changing his diaper a little too soon and just realized the extra diapers are out in the garage.  And the other twin is on the floor screaming, violently spewing sweet potato yak all over the carpet.  And all you want to do is cry.  Or maybe sleep... then cry.  Nope, no one ever mentions those days when they're rambling on about the "miracle of life".  But those are the "REAL" days.... (a little too real, and not very miraculous, if you ask me!).  And Mark and I are dragging and tripping over each other and pacifiers and toys and stumbling by on the 2-3 hours of "real" broken sleep we're getting a night.  The only miracle right now is if one of us gets 4 hours of sleep... in a row!  So Verve HQ is anything but glamorous these days... although the boys often have a bit of sparkle on their face when Katrina takes a break from packing orders to help out with one of the twins.  The glitter on that sparkly tissue paper just reaches out and grabs ya!!!  {grin}

Anyhow, sorry I've rambled on and on and didn't even talk about the card.  Just had a lot on my mind today, I guess.  As you might have guessed from reading all that, I needed a little hope in card form, so I went with the Hope Perches Plain Jane and paired it with the birdie from With Love and played with some new punches, embossing folders and washi tape.  Such a fun combo!


Thanks for "listening".  Have a fantastic day.. may a little hope perch on your soul!

Stamps: Hope Perches Plain Jane, With Love (Verve Stamps)
Paper: Curiosity (Authentique), Basic Gray (SU!), cream
Ink: Basic Gray (SU!)
Accessories: Knockouts border punch (American Crafts), sewing machine, washi tape, Chevron embossing folder (SU!)

32 comments

Dangina Martinez said...

"You Poor Thing"! Sorry to about your mishap but, glad to hear that Trevor is fine(: You'll look back one day and laugh. Look on the bright side, Your hair turned out amazing! That color really suits you. Your boys are growing so fast! Gorgeous pic.
Hugs, Dangina

Allisa said...

Your pics are priceless! Hope your foot is feeling better soon.

Tricia T said...

Bless your heart, Julee!! You are being stretched in a multitude of directions right now. I can remember those days! No matter how much you hear, "This too shall pass", it doesn't make the fact that you would like to pass out any easier!! I once read about someone who likened the hard times in her life to a "golden hailstorm". "Who wouldn't endure that gladly," she said, "and make haste to pick up as many as possible of the stinging missiles??" You might feel a little hail damaged right now, but in the end I know that God will have used each struggle to make your character even more beautiful than it is now. Hang in there and keep trusting!!! And I do hope your foot will be better soon!!

Tricia

Maureen said...

GORGEOUS picture, Julee! That colour and cut suit you so much! I see a new profile pic! And love how I can see you in those boys' smiles. You've had so much on your shoulders this past year and even though you don't think so, you've been handling it with truth and grace (well, maybe not the tripping! ;) Motherhood isn't always pretty but no one wants to tell a new mom that! Sending you and your family hugs :) Love the bit of sparkle that I'm sure can only make you laugh when you need it most!

Jackie Pedro said...

Julee, your life seems crazy right now but know that it will get easier. Someone should write a book on raising children that tells it like it is. It's the HARDEST JOB ON EARTH. One day you will look back and laugh at these moments. Do you know the song "You're Gonna Miss This" by Trace Adkins? Every word in that song is true. Sounds crazy but you will miss this stage, as doubly hard as it is. But can I say, you will look GREAT doing it! LOVE the new do!! Here's to hoping you get some sleep soon! If I lived close I'd come help!!

LOVE your gorgeous card. The boys sure haven't stolen your mojo!

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous photo Julee! We understand and feel for you so much! You are doing such a great job! Pretty soon they will be sleeping through the night and you will feel like a new woman! Hang in there girl! Hugs, Joanna

Wanda Cullen said...

Sigh...I really do feel for you!! It really will get better though it sounds trite right now when all hell is breaking loose around you! Bottom line...you can still crank out absolutely stunning cards and you've got a stunning new do and color...hang in there, Julee! We Verve fans are a patient lot! :-)

Basement Stamper said...

Big hugs, parenting is the toughest job and it does get easier as they get older. You are incredible for all that you do!!! And your card is as gorgeous as those two little fellas are. Good for you for having some "me" time.

Luanne said...

I think a little time for Julee was much needed in your hectic life right now! Glad you had an entertaining Steven to do your manicure, and your hair looks fabulous! Some day you'll look back and think how fast it all went by, even though it's so hard right now! You hang in there! The pictures are precious and the card is awesome. Thanks for sharing!

Lynn said...

Julee, I'm so glad you and Trevor are okay...that is the scariest feeling falling with one of your littlest ones. Your picture of you and the boys is beyond gorgeous. Sending you hugs my friend. I can distinctly remember with each of my four boys praying for them to sleep...they fall asleep in your arms, you lay them down in their crib praying they won't wake back up. So...enjoy those quiet snuggle times when they are resting peacefully. It is craziness...but the I love yous from their sweet little mouths do make it worth it! Sending you hugs and a prayer for lots of full nights of sleep in your near future!(and I of course adore your card too...love all the gorgeous banners!)

PS Why does no one tell us about breast feeding either? That was SO STINKING HARD!!

MarvA1ix said...

You managed to make a darling card, and that's one good thing :)
Your story made me smile, as I look back with fond memories. But, it makes me sad to think of all the struggles that you have at this time. I have had 3 new grandchildren born this year, and each and every one of my children and their spouses sing the same song that you do. It's a song that will fade, and you will forget the words to in a couple years. You might even forget enough to consider having another baby some day. for now, just take it one bite at a time, and eventually you will eat that elephant!
Your babies are beautiful, and hopefully healthy, and they need their parents to be happy and healthy, too. Forget the cards, and the Verve, and put your focus where it needs to be, with no apologies necessary. Just say "I have 2 babies, and they come first. the dust, and the paper, and the stamps can wait."

Kerri said...

Julee, Hold on girl!!! There will always be those absolutely crazy days when you think that everything that could go wrong and more . . . that is why motherhood is the hardest job there is!!! I always thought I'd never leave the couch again from non-stop breastfeeding, but it does get better. I remember those hard, hard days. That's why we LOVE going for treats of hair and nail appointments when someone can dote on us!!! You look absolutely gorgeous in your photo with the boys and they look so great - you are doing a wonderful job. It really does go by fast, although at the moment it might not seem so - as the boys continue to grow and develop to the next phase, they will amaze you!! Hang in there girl and remember you have lots of girlfriends who admire you for everything you do!!!

Marisa said...

Love the card, Julee. The paper pieced wing is adorable and you always have the best little touches. I'd still love one of your creative genes - I'll even baby sit for a while to get it ;)

Thanks for you honesty. There is so much freedom in being able to share how you are feeling and know you are not alone. Know you are loved and though of often. Will make a point to pray more often too!

Motherhood is brutally difficult those first few years due to the sleep depravation (at least that was the worst part for me) and having your world turned upside down. The bags under my eyes were so dark no amount of make up would hide them. Even harder as I was an older mom and having to adjust to being a mom 24/7 after working for 15 years in a corporate office as an Exec. Asst. And you are a business owner on top of all that!! ((HUGS!!!))

I so wish I lived close by as I would come and help you out. Don't be shy about asking for help! Glad you pampered yourself after that horrible week. Hang in there...one day at a time...we are loyal Verve customers and will stand by your side patiently :) Love you!

Anonymous said...

Life isn't always easy but it sure is fun and children grow so quickly. They will be out of this stage and into the next in a blink of an eye. Your hair looks great and you are taking the steps to take care of you right now and the twins! You can't be everything to everyone so just take it one day at a time~slow down and enjoy the moments~you will look back at them and laugh...someday!

Vicki Wizniuk said...

As a mom to twins myself, I understand how you are feeling. Just try to remember that this too will pass. This is a phase that seems to last forever while you are going through it, surely exasperated by lack of sleep, but they will grow and change before you know it, and one day you will be sleeping through the night once again. And I hope you won't in your sleep deprived state forget to take your moments to breathe, and enjoy them as much as you can while they are this little. You always hear how quickly they grow up, and it is so true. Enjoy your precious littles. I hope your injury gets better soon, as well as the way your days have been playing out. Hang in there! HUGS

Mary Marsh said...

first let me say that your hair color and cut looks beautiful as do your precious twin boys. I dont know wht its like to raise twins-I had 2 boys but they are 5 years apaprt. So when I read your post today I sent prayers your way-God knows what you need to sustain

Karen Day said...

I remember going to bed at night, and thinking - wow, this is the first time that I've brushed my teeth today!? Sound familiar? What I really love, is that even though you've had 'week from hell' - you posted a really gorgeous picture of you & the boys :o) Sending hugs!

Heather said...

You poor thing! I have twin girls that will turn 4 next month, but I am not going to tell you that this too will pass, because I remember that when you are in that moment it can be pure torture! If you are willing to give something a try, I recommend the book "Babywise" by Gary Enzo. It is a method of training your children to be on a schedule and learn how to self-soothe and go back to sleep on your own. It works and you, too, could soon be sleeping through the night. Just a thought, because I know what living with twins can be like. I love your cards, always, and I'm so glad you are managing to find time to create.

scrappingnana said...

First, your pictures are adorable. Love the one of you & the twins. So sorry to hear of your little accident and pray that your foot,ankle,knee are better. I pray that you and Mark will get some much needed sleep and rest. I know there are indeed hard times with all the hassles, but the blessings truly outweight the bad. Hang in there and God Bless you all.

Sharli Schaitberger said...

Oh Julee, I'm so glad Trevor is ok, but really sad about your injury and how difficult it all seems right now. {{{HUGS!!!!}}}

Your card is awesome - as always!

Sharli Schaitberger said...

Oops - I forgot to say - I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your hair! Very flattering!

Sari said...

Hugs to you, hope your foot feels better soon. Great pictures and beautiful card as always.

Cheryl said...

Love your new "do," but sorry to hear about the tumble. I did that about a year ago and nearly knocked myself silly when my head crashed against the wall. Not fun! As for the baby pains, be sure to hang onto posts like this one because in a few years you'll get a good chuckle out of it, and before you know it, you'll be sharing it with your daughters-in-law! Your card is gorgeous!

Vickie Z said...

Love your new do!! What an awful day and glad neither you or Trevor were hurt badly!! Raising one child at a time was difficult...can't imagine two!! Sleep deprivation doesn't help either!! It's a difficult job being a parent and so demanding and you are running a business on top of that..hang in there!!

BTW...fabulous card!

Ravengirl said...

Oh Julee! I'm sorry that life is so "REAL" right now! I'll say a prayer that you get more than a few consecutive hours of sleep and some happy boys. Your card is beautiful and your hair looks marvelous!

Anonymous said...

My heart goes out to you, girl! I'm a mom of twins - who are almost 6 right now - and I swear there are some days when it still feels like those early days of chaos when they were first born! Dang, girl, raising twins is freaking hard work! I agree, I wish someone had told me about that before they were born. Though I love my twins, there were days when I thought I was going to go insane after my husband left for work every morning. And with a potty-training 3-year-old in the mix, I was a complete wreck. I have no idea how I got through those newborn twins days, seriously. And I wasn't even trying to run a business - ACK! You amaze me!

I guess what I'm saying is, you're not alone. I kept a lot of those stressful feelings bottled up, and I wish I could have shared them with someone back then. It takes a lot of courage to vocalize that things are tough, no matter the situation. I wish I could give you a big HUG and tell you to hang in there!

You can do it. ;-)

Anonymous said...

Ooops, forgot to say - I love the pics, and your hair looks great! Hope your leg feels better soon, too.

Diana Nguyen said...

I hope by the time you are reading this things are looking up... I will be praying that you have or will find a fellow mom that will be REAL with you and someone you can be REAL back... lots of moms may look like they have it together but most don't! And most aren't juggling tiwns and a (wonderful) company. And I won't say "This too shall pass" because honestly, something else will come along. Haha - but you'll find yourself able to keep going with 2 hours of sleep and spit, pee, and who knows what else on you. Hang in there! Your twins are adorable and you look great!

Unknown said...

Julee, I haven't been here in a while because while you have twins I have old people lol. All I can say is hang in there til preschool and by all means send them to preschool, Mom's Day Out, whatever. It will help you and them. :) Your hair looks amazing and totally makes me want to update my do. I got a kick out of the The Steven Show and at least your sense of humor remains intact. Hang in there!

BTW your boys are so cute and they look just like their mama. Off to get my Verve fix and enjoy catching up on all things Verve.

Mrsro said...

I have just discovered Verve stamps and your blog.....LOVE. I felt sooo horrible for you after reading this, cause I've been there sister! Granted I didn't have twins, but I did have a little boy with a nasty case of colic that did not go away for months & months & months! I remember being so exhausted I wanted to cry (like all the time) & praying for some sleep at night. I know it doesn't help @ this minute, but know things WILL get better & easier (times 2)LOL!

Shirley said...

Julee....
We "met" online 6 years ago. 2006!! Remember our late night chats and stamping the newest "challenge" on SCS?? Well, those nights RENEWED ME!! Kept me sane!! My kids were 3,2,and 1!! For 6 months I had three in diapers!! CLOTH diapers cuz we were BROKE!! Yep, toys, babyfood on my clothes, and Barney songs all day!! OH YES, I looked forward to the quiet evenings chatting and stamping with YOU, forgetting all the troubles of the day!!!

"Babywise" by Gary Ezo!! Someone else mentione it....YES, READ IT, LEARN IT, LIVE IT, IT SAVED MY SANITY!! People, even my own mother, could not believe that ALL 3 kids napped at the same time, pooped at the same time and slept all night, everyday/night!! Schedules and Routines!! I have now moved on to his other books "Toddlerwise and Preteenwise".

WOW...6 years!! I can't believe how fast the time has gone!!

Squirrellyshirley

carole (TruCarMa) said...

(((Julee))) Just catching up on my Google reader, which is why this comment is so late, but I couldn't help but read it & want to give you a cyber hug. Every mother has in one form or fashion been right there where you are now - if she claims otherwise, it's because Momnesia has kicked in so the human race can continue! It's cold comfort in the moment, but I promise you, this, too, shall pass. Love you, sister! BTW, you are looking FABULOUS!