Saturday, January 28, 2012

Four Years - TODAY!

Today is my anniversary. No I didn't sneak off and get married sometime or another. It is 4 years today that I started my blog. For 4 years I have been posting projects, cut files, stories of my life and any other nonsense that my fingers would peck out on the keyboard. It also means that now my relationship with my blog and my readers has lasted longer than any romantic relationship I have experienced in my life. Oh sure there was the one that lasted over 5 years, but it was off and on. My blog however, it has been consistent!

I started this thing a little over a month after getting my Cricut. I was so excited about anything I made and was fascinated about how that machine could cut out those shapes so easily. If truth be told, I am still fascinated by that and just watch it cut a lot of the time and wonder how the heck it knows to do it *okie figures she will get some kinda technical information from her friend Linda, aka LGuild, about how it works and okie's eyes will start to glaze over and Linda will notice and then stop verbalizing the information that okie really doesn't care about*. The general reason I started a blog was to share my projects with my family and friends without me having to email them pictures all the time.

I want to share with you a little story about how the Cricut and my blog changed my life....

I entered a depressive state back in October of 2006. Not a major depression mind you, but more dystymic. I was trudging through the days not really feeling happy, but not feeling like the world was going to end either. I would try to find joy in things that I once loved to do but it just wasn't there. First off, I thought I was going to be able to buy a house and that fell through. The day I was go to with my sister to the bank the man who was selling the house decided not to sell. I was heart sick. Right after that I had a breast cancer scare. My mammogram came back abnormal and I had to go to the city for a more professional exam and screening. When that came back abnormal I had to go back again. Usually something like that wouldn't bother me and I wouldn't worry until all the tests came back but since I had cancer before I knew it could be devastating. The day before I was to go to Oklahoma City for my second round of tests I got a call that Gary Keith had died from injuries in a car wreck. For those who don't know, Gary Keith was my first love and I still love him today and will until the day I die. I wrote about him a few months ago when I was nervous about going to my class reunion. At that point I told my doctor I needed some anti-depressants, they helped a little but I still just couldn't get back to my former self. My test results did come back okay from the mammograms and screenings so I found some relief in that.

For the next year I went through my day to day routine knowing I was not being fair to my daughter. She was use to having a mom that was happy, laughing and always ready to do something. I got to where I didn't want to leave the house. There were some things going on with her as well that added to my depressed moods. We had always been close since it was just she and I in the home. She had gotten a boyfriend that, well...he was not a good one, I will leave it at that. I tried many things to help her see it wasn't a healthy relationship but nothing seemed to work. I was torn that my darling beloved daughter was suddenly a stranger to me who talked back, disrespected me and was angry all the time. *okie smiles and softly laughs* I remember thinking that God had abandoned me and wasn't listening to my prayers. I now know that if it weren't for God that I probably would have slipped away completely emotionally and mentally.

I was at a place in my life where I felt I was all alone, that no one really cared. Of course I know I had my family and friends who loved me and cared about me but that's the odd thing about depression, it convinces you that you are worthless. In December of 2007 I had my Christmas Party as normal, I had started it two years prior and my girlfriends all looked forward to it so I kept the tradition even though I was not feeling festive. About a week after the party my friend Andrea came to me with a gift card. She said they had wanted to chip in and get me a Cricut because I had talked about wanting one for almost two years. Andrea told me that not everyone had chipped in like they said but she and her mom wanted to pay the rest so I could still get the Cricut. She had planned on going to Walmart and getting one since it was on sale for $119 but since it was after Black Friday the lady told her the price had went back to normal. I could see the disappointment on Andrea's face when she gave me the gift card. We discussed using the amount on the gift card and then me paying the rest so I could get the Cricut.

On my birthday, which is December 23rd, my daughter and I went into Walmart to pick up a few things before heading to my friend Andrea's to spend Christmas with her and her girls. We went back to the craft department and there was a Cricut. The price was something like $189. My daughter told me that she had some money left from her check, she was working at McDonalds at the time, and would give me $20 to help. I told her that I didn't have the rest at the time because I was broke from Christmas and what money I did have we needed for bills. For some odd reason she suggested that I price scan the machine. I put it in my buggy and we did a little shopping before scanning the bar code. When we did the price came up $119! My daughter was ecstatic and told me "MOM!! YOU HAVE TO GET IT! YOU HAVE BEEN WANTING ONE FOREVER!" and she started digging in her pocket to give me her money she had stashed back. At her insistence I did get the Cricut. We went to Andrea's and told her and the girls about it and we all discussed how lucky I was to get it for that price. How lucky I was we just didn't know at the time.

I was intimidated by my Cricut at first. I took it out of the box and just started at it. I read the manual about how to power it on, button functions and all that good jazz. It sat on my craft table for a few days, me being afraid to touch it *okie cracks up laughing now remembering her staring gaze at that little machine and feeling like it was going to explode or something if she touched the wrong button*. About 4 days after buying it I figured I should register it. I went to the Cricut.com website and registered the machine and saw a banner that said "Free Design Studio Trial". After registering the machine I downloaded the trial and OH EM GEE! I was so excited to see that I could see the mat on my computer screen and place things right where I wanted them so I knew where things would cut. And then I noticed I could weld shapes together...WHAT?? HOW COULD THAT BE? THE POSSIBILITIES MUST BE ENDLESS!

I also happened to notice a link that said "Messageboard". I remember thinking "oh I bet there is some information there". I jumped in on the messageboard with both feet and I was posting like crazy, asking all sorts of questions. I remember how patient everyone was with me and I would have answers to any of my questions within about 5 seconds. I let them know how nervous I was about the machine and of course they laughed, but were supportive and understanding. I got in the Design Studio forum and before I knew it I was considered one of the experts. Everyday I couldn't wait to get home and get on the computer to check the messageboard and to open Design Studio. I quickly knew the little tricks of the program in and out. At that time Capadia and SusanBlueRobot were two of the most knowledgeable about the program and between the three of us there wasn't much we couldn't answer.

I started emailing my family and friends things I had made with my Cricut. It seemed like I was emailing a lot. I also started emailing .cut files I would make to people on the messageboard. One night after I spent almost two hours of filling requests for .cut files I decided there had to be a more simple way. There were already people who had blogs and would allow others to download their files so I knew it could be done. I had a few files I sent to a group effort blog but I didn't want to keep that route since they were in control of the files and blog. I decided to start my own blog.

Being on the messageboard daily allowed me to get to "know" a lot of people. The greatest gift was that I had made friends with some great women who would end up being some of my now best friends. I have been blessed with being able to meet a lot of folks that I talk to on the messageboard and now Facebook and put a real live face with a name. I have had Cricut people from Ohio, Texas, different places in Oklahoma come and visit me in my home. I have people all over the world that I talk too and know about their lives, as they know about mine.

Well now here I sit 4 years later one of the happiest people on earth. I have found peace with paying rent the rest of my life, at least I don't have to worry about coming up with the cost for roof replacement, fixing the floor if the water heater breaks, tearing up sewer lines or any other major job. After many years I was able to let go and remember Gary Keith with fond memories and accept that I will always love him. My daughter who is now 20 and living on her own, is able to acknowledge the pain she caused me and still apologizes from time to time.

So how did the Cricut and my blog change my life? Simple...I was able to find joy and happiness again through cutting paper, meeting people, sharing myself with others, accepting encouragement and also learning that God blesses us in some odd ways sometimes but if we open our eyes and listen around us we can accept that He does answer our prayers. I have come to cherish people, friendships and experiences that would never have been possible without my Cricut or my blog and I thank God for knowing just the right thing to send into my life to keep me from slipping away.

So my dear readers, that's the story. I know some of you have heard parts of this before and for some it is all new. I would like to say thank you for you folks that read this chit, and a double thank you for those that read this chit daily! *okie shakes her head and wonders about the sanity of some of her readers for coming back everyday*. You guys have made it a great 4 years and I truly appreciate knowing there is someone on the other side of this screen who has enough interest to read my efforts.

57 comments:

  1. That is an awesome story Okie! Really brought tears to my eyes. Its amazing that one little machine has done so much bigger things for so many people! That is very true for me as well! Happy Blogaversary!:

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  2. Thank you for sharing your story. I too have been intimidated by that infernal machine. I am still learing and not as overwhelmed. I really appreciate your blog you are such a down to earth person. Thaks

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  3. That is an awesome story Okie! You actually brought tears to my eyes. It is amazing how one little machine has done so much more than just cut paper! It truely has changed many lives and created many amazing friendships! Happy Blogaversary!

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  4. That is an awesome story Okie! Really brought tears to my eyes. Its amazing that one little machine has done so much bigger things for so many people! That is very true for me as well! Happy Blogaversary!:

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  5. That is an awesome story Okie! Really brought tears to my eyes. Its amazing that one little machine has done so much bigger things for so many people! That is very true for me as well! Happy Blogaversary!:

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  6. WOW, 4 years... this is amazing!!! If I don't always comment, I always read your blog. It's uplifting and makes me laugh. Yeah for the Cricut and saving you from depression. Hugs, Brigitte

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  7. Great story... It's amazing what God uses to help us through life. Thanks for sharing!

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  8. Beautifully said, Okie! That little machine touched your life, and you touch many others in such a positive way. It's fun to read your blog and I enjoy looking at your projects! Please keep going, and continuing to inspire us. BethAnn M.

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  9. It really is wonderful to read the story of how your little Cricut helped bring your life back, Okie. I remember those days from the Cricut message board, we were such a great community, and I still miss it. I used to race home from work and get on the board just to catch up with everyone. I'm glad I got to know you then. I admire you for the generous spirit of sharing your Cricut knowledge and talents with others.

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  10. This is the perfect post to start my day...I love reading your posts, your message board updates and seeing your projects. You make me smile, laugh out loud and today cry a little bit...Glad you are in a good place...funny how crafting can help on those days we feel our worst!! Thanks and Happy 4 YEARS!!!

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  11. Such a redemptive story. Thanks for sharing. May God continue to less you as you bless those around you.

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  12. HAPPY 4 YEARS OKIE!!!! If you only knew what a blessing you are to all of us out here! You have been keeping me sane for at least 3 of the 4 years!

    Love 'ya lady,
    Jackie

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  13. Happy Anniversary Okie. I follow your blog and I read it everyday. (although I don't comment everyday.You have been a real blessing for me. I too have come to the realization that the "cricut ladies" are good friends...an awesome group of ladies. Okie, I believe that Our Lord is with us 24/7 and that,that which does not kill us, makes us stronger. You, my friend , are a very strong woman who has been blessed with a great talent...but..blessed even more with a big heart because you share your talent with us. May our Lord grant you many, many, but many more years with your blog.

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  14. Congrats on your 4 years, Okie! I recently found you (and goodness only knows how, but I'm thankful for it), and I read every day. You are an inspiration!!

    I must say the "depression" you had .... that's such a real thing, and those that have never been through it don't realize it. I suffered the same such depression during spring break of my daughter's senior year in high school (2004). It took a while to get me "straight" again .... but I did get straight. Depression is the lonliest feeling ever .... and I'm glad you shared your story.

    I look forward to AT LEAST another 4 years with you on your blog!

    Hugs!
    *Karla*

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  15. No, Thank you Okie! You always make me smile and your projects are beautiful. You always brighten my day!

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  16. Happy Blogaversary! I'm so glad you found that bargain, and what a lovely daughter to keep thinking of you! Go out today and Celebrate!

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  17. Happy 4 Years! I look forward to your postings. You show me that even with difficulties you can go on and be happy. My husband passed away suddenly 4 years ago and then my daughter suddenly passed away in October of last year. I am still floundering but taking one day at a time. I try to make cards, but doing a layout is something I still struggle with as she is in so much of my photos and life. Thanks for allowing be to see your struggles and how you are overcoming them. Maybe I can to.

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  18. Congrats on your 4 years. I for one am grateful for your daily posts as you keep me "sane". Thanks for bringing both a smile and tears. Love your writing. Have you ever considered writing a book? Keep blogging. Thanks :)

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  19. Happy Anniversary!!!! just one of your stalker's here :) I don't usually leave a comment but today as special as you are. Have a great day and thanks for all the wonderful post!!!

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  20. I WAS floundering about 2 yrs ago with the dreaded E, but thanks to YOU I have conquered those fears, I would sit and have my morning coffee with you and read your blog and try some of your gypsy files, You have a witty & great sense of humour, don't ever lose that. I enjoy your chit, you are a real person & say it like it should be said. THANK YOU, carry on.
    etfamily at wynndel dot ca

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  21. What a nice story. I'm so glad you started your blog. It always cheers my day to look at your blog and see your great creations and your great sence of humor ! Hopefully one day I'll get to meet you in person too !
    Anna N.

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  22. Happy Anniversary!!!! Thanks for such a inspirational life story. Look forward to reading your blog daily!

    Marilyn C.

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  23. Your blog post always makes my day a little brighter! Thank you for adding a spark to your readers'lives. Happy Blogaversary!

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  24. Has it really been four years? I joined the cricut message board about the same time you did and felt so blessed to have YOU showing me the way! Thanks for all you've done, and do, for all of us.

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  25. You mean to tell me that there was a time you didn't have a Cricut? Really. Oh EM GEE! ROFLMAO!

    Glad you snapped out of it. We all enjou reading your blog. I love how you write because I can tell that's probably EXACTLY how you talk and it just draws you in.

    Keep typin' and cuttin' girlfriend!

    Kathy Wyatt

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  26. Happy Anniversary, and thank you for sharing your story. You must be an exceptionally strong person...you definitely are a talented & witty one! I enjoy reading about your adventures, usually leave with a smile at your little 'asides', and your projects are always so pretty & creative. I have had a Cricut Expressions for nearly 3years, used it once. You make me think I should re-evaluate that practice! Have a great day, and keep up the blog.

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  27. Congratulations on your anniversary! Your blog does brighten my day even though I don't always comment. Thanks for that. Here's to 4 more years of great projects, asterisks and italics!

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  28. Thanks for sharing such a personal story. I am glad that you found your way out of your depression. I am watching my husband struggle with depression. After reading this I told him that he could have my baby bug if he wanted to make things but I don't think he will. He said "you never know what will bring a person back from depression". You have blessed me and many other people with your blog. You are so talented and have shared with us all. Keep up the good work.

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  29. I've been reading your blog for about 3 years and I think this is the first time I've heard the whole story. The Lord does bless us with what we need when we don't even realize that is what we needed. So thankful your friends wanted you to get a Cricut. How different the Cricut world would be with out you. :(((
    papermemories4u@ yahoo.com

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  30. AWESOME Story Okie! I've read info here and there but it's nice to read the whole thing.... I'm one of the "crazy ones" who comes here daily and when I can't get on to read what you've been up to I go stir crazy! LOL... Who would think a little machine could change someones life? I believe it truly can and has for me too... and I'm soooo happy that it has changed your life for the better and everyone else who has a story.... I look forward to reading your blog for many more years.... :o)

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  31. Happy 4th Anniversary! Thank you for sharing your story...but darn Okie...first thing in the morning and you've got me in tears! Your story is very touching and perhaps touching because there are many of us who have walked down similiar roads and understand.

    I have to agree that when I got my Cricut I played and played and played! You'll laugh at this, when I opened it I was mad because I didn't have a blade in the box. I kept looking and could not find it anywhere. So I am holding the green housing in my hand and started to push on the little pin at the top and said to my husband and my daughter "I can not believe I don't have a bladeeeeeeeeee!" As I was saying that I felt this very sharp pain in my finger! LOL! I'm a dummy, they laughed and I did bleed for a few minutes!

    I do agree, the Cricut has brought a lot of pleasure and my husband from time to time will walk into the area I am crafting and I will begin to say, "You know I love my Cricut" but before I can he will say, "I know, you love your
    Cricut!"

    Thank you for sharing, thank you for all your great stories and thank you for all the fantastic designs you have shared with us!

    Happy Anniversary and keep the motivation coming!

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  32. Oh Okie, you are such a jewel! I read you everyday, but seldom comment. Please know that I think of you always and am sorry you have had a hard time. You do make me laugh daily!
    claudiamatzke at hotmail dot com

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  33. Happy anniversary, Shirley! I love your stories you've been sharing with all of us, I feel like I know you. God bless!

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  34. Congrats and Happy Anniversary Shirley. I've been reading your blog for probably a year or so now, but I've also gone back and read all of your posts since the beginning...You keep it real, good or bad. I feel like I know you already and would love to meet you in person someday. I check your blog everyday and follow you on facebook. I really look forward to hearing from you and seeing your amazing projects. So please...keep on blogging!

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  35. Thanks for sharing your storiy, it brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for taking the time to post your beautiful work and to help and explain how to work this machine for those of us who are new to it and those who have been at it for a while and still didnt know it could do that. :). I appreciate all the time you put in to keep this blog going.

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  36. Thanks for sharing your storiy, it brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for taking the time to post your beautiful work and to help and explain how to work this machine for those of us who are new to it and those who have been at it for a while and still didnt know it could do that. :). I appreciate all the time you put in to keep this blog going.

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  37. I'm one of your readers who have heard bits and pieces of your story over time. I always come back for more. You're just very interesting. I've had my blog for over 2 years. It took me 3 or 4 months to figure out how to post. Now 2 years later I still can't do much more than post. I don't have what you might call a "successful" blog. But I do have a few loyal followers and I appreciate every comment and bit of encouragement I get from them. Mostly it is a place to store pics of my projects. But like you my cricut tools gave me a much needed outlet. So "cheers" to both of us for being lucky enough to get a cricut.

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  38. That story sounds like mine. I remember setting the machine up and thinking "what do I do now". There wasn't much information out there. I found the message board and learned a lot there. I found the few blogs that were out there and followed a few. I don't know what I would have done without learning from them. My first cut was Mickey Mouse and I didn't know how to make his clothes the right fit. I later found that the Disney carts are some of the hardest to work with. I can't wait everyday to check the blogs and see what has been made. I find that I am spending too much time "Surfing" and not doing. Not scrapping, not cleaning, not cooking, not anything, but, reading the blogs. The bloggers all seem like family to me. (I see more of them than I do my family--I live alone.) I am amazed that the bloggers keep coming up with all these ideas to make every time and how much time they must spend everyday to keep the blogs up. Thank you bloggers.

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  39. Ahhh I Think I have been reading your blog for two years and I have enjoyed getting to know your. I am not insane my Dr. told me so just the other day. Teeeeee.
    Congrats on making it 4 yr, Happy Blogiversary! I am looking forward to the next 4 or 40.

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  40. Happy Anniversary Shirley! You have been the inspiration for so many of us. I start my day reading your blog and would some day love to meet you! God has blessed all of us by giving us you!
    ~Donna

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  41. Happy 4 years. Here is to many many more!!!!!!

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  42. Okie I have been a follower for about 2 years now. I knew part of your story but am glad to know the rest. I found you through the Cricut messageboard and you helped me understand my machine by reading your posts there and here on your blog. Although we have never meet in person I do consider you a friend and look forward to your posts. I look forward to seeing your future posts and hearing of your adventures in life.

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  43. that's a nice story. i don't post alot of comments on your blog but i keep up with you. i remember the old messageboard. wasn't 'that' the inspiration for the group you started? where all us 'oletimers' could meet up once again? i've met a lot of good friends too. i love my crafting world and i'm glad you're a part of it! thanks for all you do.

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  44. LOVED reading your story Okie! Thanks for sharing even the hard stuff! Thanks for all you do too.

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  45. It's actually pretty simple. The entire shape you're cutting out is made up of a series of individual dots (pierced by the blade) the blade travels on a simple XY axis, etc., etc. ARE YOUR EYES GLAZED OVER YET? lol!

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  46. Who knew such a crafty little machine could do so much to bring people together to have fun and bring the sunshine back into life! I totally agree with you...cricut has changed my life too!

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  47. Such wonderful things can happen because of that little bug, Cricut!! I'm glad to have found Cricut and your Blog!! Congrats and Blessings--Carolyn

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  48. YOU were not the only one blessed when you got your Cricut! Because of that gift, you have brought much joy and laughter to many, far and wide! I totally enjoy and relate to your sense of humor and way of looking at life, and your wonderful way of articulating things! Happy Anniversary--and here's to many many more!
    Shellee

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  49. Happy Blogavesary Okie! I have been looking at your blog almost daily for a long time now. I really look forward to seeing what you have to say! Thanks for being so candid about life, you are a very courageous person! I feel like I really know you! I love my cricut also, I have spent hundreds of hours creating things. I always joke that if my house ever catches on fire, I will run out with it while yelling for my husband to get out! By far, my favorite toy I've ever owned in my 46 year life! Love ya, Sheri

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  50. This was very touching, and I feel like my machine is therapy for me to . Work has me down a lot and going to craft always immediately gets my mind of the day , week, or even a bad month.
    Kate

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  51. Thanks Shirley for sharing your story. I have been following your for quite some time and I have to tell you that each morning when I check my email, I scroll till I find your blog entry and it is usually the first thing I read! You bless me with your creativity, honesty and most definitely your humor!! Thanks for blessing me and I pray God continues to bless you!
    Teri

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  52. isn't our GOD awesome!!! He will never leave us or forsake us!!!!!
    yes, the old MB was greatvand fun..
    you are truely Blessed.....
    you are a great person Ms Okie...
    CONGRATS ON YOUR 4 YEARS!!!!!!!!!
    YOUR DOING A FABLOUS JOB.....

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  53. I'm so happy you got your cricut that day, happy for you and happy for all of us that are grateful to have gone on the journey with you ... and thank you for all your generousity in sharing your knowledge. You've been a great inspiration in so many ways. I wish you happiness always.
    pepcLyn at aol dot com

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  54. Happy 4th Anniversary!! I love reading your blog. Thanks for sharing your stories. I can relate to some of your stories too. Keep sharing with us please.

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  55. Thank you for sharing your heart!! And congrats on 4 years of happiness...and creativity!
    LynnV

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  56. You are such a great, wonderful person! I just found your blog and love it and love all that you do. I appreciate you and thanks for sharing your ideas and creativeness!

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