What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger (or so 'they' say)

Yesterday was rougher that I thought it was going to be. When I wrote the blogiversary post, I knew that my Mother-in-law was in the hospital for some tests and that my grandmother (mawmaw) had some pain in one of her feet so my mom had her at the doctor. Shortly after I finished the post, all hell broke loose. A blood clot was found in mawmaw's OTHER foot and it was expected that she was going to have to stay at the hospital for a few days. I headed to Mobile to help my step-father take care of my nieces (dinner, homework, etc.) Eventually, it was determined that mawmaw would NOT have to stay in the hospital and was back home getting nursed just in time for the dinner I had thrown together (Stouffers to the rescue!) Meanwhile, on my side of the bay, Pat's mom was getting prepped for BYPASS SURGERY for a blood clot right near her heart. I was torn about where I needed to be. I ended up staying in Mobile and learned that mom came through the surgery with flying colors. Pat, dad, and my siblings-in-law were able to go back and see her before they all headed home for the night. Shortly after that, I headed home myself. Of course, I was slowed and delayed by the torrential rainstorm Mobile was getting.

This morning, the sky reflects my mood. Or, perhaps (more likely) my mood is influenced by the gray, damp, misty day. Blah!

I am going to take the opportunity to be thankful for the blessings I do have: family, home, love. And, I am going to make the most of the day (dreary or not) by creating some jewelry.

First, I'll need to clear off the messy craft desk/work surface.

It'll make me feel better to have a clean surface to work on and it will 'go with' the other clean(er) areas of the craft room. Yesterday morning I tackled the craft cubes. They started off looking like this:

And before long, I had them looking like this:

While it's not a picture of perfection, the loss of chaos makes me breathe a little easier.

Before I go, here are the last bit of Halloween ideas and links I have to share. Of course, there's always the possibility I'll find more later (especially since I'm WAY BEHIND in my blog-reading.) For now, enjoy!

• This haunted forest made from licorice would make a cute cake topper as well as a spooky centerpiece like they have intended.
• Check out these black wreaths for that added creep factor.
• Here are some 'green' Halloween crafts for you eco-conscious folks.
• These paper pumpkins look like they might also be a great way to recycle AND decorate! Plus, they are really neat. 

Alrighty, looks like I've delayed cleaning off that craft desk long enough. I better get to work.
As well, continued thoughts and prayers for both my families is greatly appreciated. Thank you.