June is my Birthday Month!  Yay for Special Days and Celebrating.

Celebrating birthdays can sometimes be tedious.  Depending on the frame of mind one has.  The age old adage, "you're only as old as you feel"...and other great sayings can leave one feeling older than they really are.

This year, I am turning 59!  Yup!  It's a big one.  Not ready for retirement, but viewing it off in the distance.  When I think of retirement, I really don't know what to think specifically.  Does one really retire?  Retire from what?  Living?  The "promise" of something better in retirement shadows the present. The scene similar to hanging a carrot in front of a rabbit.  Teasing.  Taunting.  Causing dissatisfaction with current situation.  I don't want this to be my focus.

I've decided that today, right now...I'm going to live in the present.  Not exerting energy into speculating, what the future may have.  I feel mentally stronger, and accepting of my place and position in life.  I want to move forward confident in this acceptance of self.  Focusing on contentment, not discontentment.  Finding things to be grateful for, and appreciative of.

Recently, I've been able to work on new art pieces.  You can see some of the pieces here:

The words and verses on these art pieces are all meaningful to me.  This has been my process.  When you view these pieces, you can see what I've been thinking on, and where the direction of my life is heading.  Check the shop to see when these pieces are listed: here

As I look forward to my 59th year of life, I am excited.  I am anticipating great adventures and life lessons learned.  I am learning to see Immanuel's (God with us) presence in everyday moments.  I'm full of joy and expectancy as I look forward to what lies ahead on my life journey.

Sharing smiles with you straight from my flower garden.  Do you see them?  The little smiley faces in the middle of the daisies?  I just love how happy these make me.  Hope you enjoy them as well.

Thank you for joining with me and being a traveling companion on this adventure.

Good-Bye 2017

What a year 2017 has been.  Some years zoom by with relative sameness as past years.  For us 2017 was not like past years!

We started off the year with big plans for Pear Creek Cottage to attend the Business Boutique one day event in Sacramento, California.  This was Pear Creek Cottage's first "Live Event".  Taking ones on-line business to a "Live Event" is revealing, to say the least.  Learning to display items; engage in conversations that are in real time and not "virtual", and using different financial services for handling transaction were all part of our learning curve.  But, we LOVED it!  Meeting other women who are either in business, or dreaming of starting a business was such and encouragement and inspiration to us.  It was a big booster shot.

After returning home from this event, Terri and I were hustling.  We were super busy through-out the Spring and Summer.  Not only with filling orders and running the business, but we also were planning and creating for the Super Business Boutique Event in Nashville.  The plan was formulated, and to be executed by Jan and her husband Jerry. 

Yet another curve ball came our way in July of 2017 when we were notified of Jerry's pending layoff from his company.  Not what we were expecting as we had carefully planned trip expenses to Nashville.  We had decided to drive and take some extended time traveling since we were coming from California.  As the clock ticked down and the departure date arrived, we had by that time gone back and forth on the practicality of attending the event so far from home. 

The practical side was tugging on us to "throw in the towel" and claim defeat as our plans were shattered.  But, we are people of faith!  We made the decision to step out in faith, believing that this wonderful opportunity that had come to us was a gift given by our Father in Heaven.  So, against conventional wisdom, we stepped out and drove ourselves back to Nashville for the Big Business Boutique Event.

Along the drive, we were encouraged and had our spirits lifted by the adventure of "not knowing" what exactly was next.  Expectancy and excitement were our companions as we literally were moving forward in faith, believing that the risk we were taking was and still is part of our growth process.

Seeing the different parts of America as we drove to our destination was also a moral booster for both of us.  We have always dreamed of driving across country and exploring this great nation.  So, we decided to enjoy the adventure and the scenery, even though some states topography are not our favorites, we did find beauty in the diversity.

There was so much to absorb and learn at the BB in Nashville.  I am still applying the notes I took, and making changes and adjustments to my business to help grow and blossom in 2018.

Needless to say it was overwhelming and invigorating all in one.  To see the power of women believing in their dreams, and the people who are behind them helping them realize their dreams is a powerful force.  Many husbands also attended the BB, which kind of surprised me, but then, on the other hand, inspired me.  Seeing the men, behind the women believing in "the dream" sometimes even more, than the woman herself is amazing.

I had my own support team rooting and cheering behind the scenes and in the grandstands! Thank you to my family and friends who have supported and believed in me, all the way.  Of course, I too had my husband right there by my side. Speaking life giving words of hope and encouragement over me.  Also, I had the very best traveling companion.  My best friend and my soulmate.

As we come to the close of this year, and look forward with anticipation to the faith adventures that await us in 2018,  we especially want to THANK YOU for all your support, belief, love and favor that you've blessed us with this year.  It may not seem like a big thing to you, but by supporting our small business you are believing in our dreams and promoting us to move forward in helping others realize their dreams as well.  So ,a huge big Thank You from the bottom of our hearts.  Looking forward to exploring 2018 with you.

Patches and Daisy's Adventures to Nashville and Beyond

Patches and Daisy's Adventure to Business Boutique was full of unique opportunities to meet new people, and to even go home with their new owners.

As we left California, and drove across Nevada, Utah and Wyoming, I was assembling new brothers and sisters for the original Patches and Daisy's that I made.  I wanted to be able to have as many as possible to take to the Business Boutique in Nashville.  Each time I would complete one of the bears, I would smile.  Hoping that each bear would offer their new owners the same response!  JOY and gladness.  Learning to live as "The Beloved".

What a great time of learning and sharing we participated in at the Boutique.  Laughing with others, and encouraging them in their business endeavors.   Exchanging ideas and contacts.  I am particularly grateful that Jerry, my husband, was able to make the trip to Nashville with me, and all the Pear Creek Cottage goodies that we piled in the car.  Having his stable presence was calming for my excited nerves, and his assistance in set up and take down was so helpful.

It was such a great re-connecting time as husband and wife.  We were both under considerable amount of stress the weeks leading up to the event.  Me, with getting items ready to take with us and sell.  Jerry, with finishing up things at his company, as he lost his job, right before our trip.

This whole year has been teaching and reminding us that we live by faith and not by sight.  When we said yes to attend the conference in Tennessee, we had no idea at the time that Jerry would be losing his job.

We are thankful we stepped out in faith, and followed our hearts, and went on this trip to Tennessee.  We are not sure how God is going to work, but we believe with confidence, the changes we are experiencing and traveling through are for a greater, deeper purpose than we realize.  We are choosing to TRUST, and live in JOY.

We have a fondness for The Great Smoky Mountains.  They have become one of Jerry and my favorite places to visit.  We weren't sure that the trip would allow for extended travel time that allowed us to journey into our beloved mountains.  But, as it turns out, that was another added bonus from our Loving and Caring Father God.

It seemed so fitting that Patches and Daisy were able to enjoy the scenery as much as Jerry and I do.  The musical sound of rushing water over the rocks in the river.  The ever so slight timbre of leaves falling, and the brisk Fall air were a soothing balm for us.

My eyes were brimming with tears of joy and thankfulness for the opportunity we had to take this trip and enjoy the majestic beauty in God's creation.  It seem like a "Shalom Moment" ; all is peaceful and calm, knowing that no matter what happens in the future...we know that we are safe in God's hands and He will carry us through these times of unknowing and uncertainty.

"In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him".  Psalm 95:4 
              



We don't see all the answers from our current perspective, but we are continually choosing to "walk by faith, and not by sight"; as the journey continues to unfold we will share what we are learning along the way.

"But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1"

The Beloved Bears are HERE!

Ever since reading Bonnie Gray's book, "Whispers of Rest", I have been on a quest, a journey, learning to live as the Beloved of God.  This book, and the process of change, has been eye opening and just what I needed at just the right time.

Like many folks, I've struggled with the need for approval.  Feeling inadequate.  Trying to gain acceptance.  One of the patterns that I've developed has been to work harder...to gain more.  The harder I work, the more others will like me.  This has worked like a charm!  It has turned me into a workaholic, an emotional "stuffer", and a stressed out human being.  My relationships have suffered,  my health has suffered, and my soul has suffered.  Not a good way to live ones life.

I really enjoy creating with my hands and my heart.  My head is full of creative ideas and possibilities.  My creative process is usually an extension from what I am learning and discovering, emotionally, physically, or spiritually.  As I've been digesting the truths in the book "Whispers of Rest",  I like to create little tangible reminders of the precepts and truths I'm learning.  This helps reinforce the lessons I'm learning.  A way of reviewing and remembering.

One of the ways I am choosing to remember is through this adorable little stuffed bear which I made.  I named them, "Beloved Bears".  A truth to remind me that God takes the pieces and the patches of my life, and stitches them together with His threads of grace and mercy, to create 'ME'.  His one of a kind creation that brings Him joy.  That is hard to comprehend at times.  I bring God JOY!  Not my workaholism.  Not what I do.  Not what I look like, or what I say.  But me, just as I am...I bring Him JOY!  He delights to be in my presence.  WOW!  Even just typing the words, stops me in my tracks once again.
I have wanted to learn, embrace, and live these truths.  The idea of the "Beloved Bears" came to me as a way I can practice remembering.  I thought, if I put magnets inside the bear, I can stick him on the fridge, in my office....on my exercise bike...wherever I can see him and be reminded of the truth he represents.

Now, you know a little of the back story how the bears came to be.  To me, when I see them, they make me smile.  They bring me joy and hope.  I hope they do the same for you.  You are special.  You are unique, one of a kind...made for a specific purpose.  You are BELOVED!

Patches and Daisy will be accompanying me to the Business Boutique in Nashville, Tennessee.  This is an incredible opportunity that has been opened up to me.  I am still in process getting ready.  There have been obstacles in the way which should prevent me from attending; like my husband losing his job.  However, our God is greater, and stronger, and bigger than the obstacles, and we are trusting that He is leading us, even when we don't understand.
You can use the Coupon Code: PEARCREEK for a discount to attend the Business Boutique.

Learning to Live As The Beloved

I was so excited to be chosen to be part of the new book launch for Bonnie Gray's new book: "Whispers Of Rest".
Everything about this book has drawn me in.  The title, the reviews, the summaries.  I mean, after all, who doesn't want "REST" in their life?  "40 Days of God's Love to Revitalize Your Soul" ???....I'm all in!!

Having previously read Bonnie's book Finding Spiritual Whitespace, and meeting Bonnie at one of her speaking engagements, I was a fan already.  So, picking up her new book, and reading and doing the exercises listed, was thrilling for me.  What I didn't realize or expect was the depth that this journey would take me on.  It is my Love Story with Jesus...from the beginning, and being written and lived out daily.   The journey...the path of learning to live as THE BELOVED...daily.

It's not just a spiritual high from retreat or camp.  It is a moment by moment, breathing, living relationship with my LORD, Jesus Christ.  It is passionate.  It is intimate.  It is life giving, and life sustaining.  It is redefining how I think, and choose to live.

One of the ways I express myself is through gift giving.  As I have been journeying through this book, (now my second time through), I am continually thinking of tangible ways to remind myself of the truths I am learning and discovering.  Accepting myself as God's Beloved, and viewing myself through His loving eyes has given me even greater freedom to express my love back to Him in creative and artful ways.  When I was stitching up this patchwork bear,  I was giddy with laughter and full of JOY as I was creating.  The bear was coming together and I was blossoming in the experience...when I realized, YES!  This is me living as The Beloved.

God made me to create and have joy in experiencing the creative process.  This is how God feels about me when He created me, and sees me "come alive" again in the creating process.  So, I dubbed him "Beloved Bear".  He has magnets in his back so I can stick him on different metal surfaces.  He travels around the house with me as a reminder of how much I am loved, and cherished.  The same delight I had in making him is just a pinprick of the the Delight that Jesus has in me.

I hope you enjoy the photos, and catch a glimpse of what you can discover between the pages of this book.

"Life may seem easier without our dreams.  But we weren't made to simply do life as maintenance.  There are God-Breathed Dreams planted in each of us that are still alive, even if we've left them behind." Bonnie Gray

To pick up you own "Beloved Bear" visit my Etsy shop. (Coming Soon)
Pear Creek Cottage

Whispers Of Rest Challenge and Launch Team

I have been thrilled and honored to be part of Bonnie Gray's new book launch:  Whispers Of Rest.

I discovered Bonnie Gray's writings through the In(Courage) Blog on Dayspring.com.
Her writing style connected with my heart.  I felt like she was able to put words to my feelings better than I could even express.

Her first book, Finding Spiritual Whitespace: Awakening Your Soul To Rest; was so life giving and restoring to my soul.  I told everyone who would listen, about it.  I spent time reading and studying for months.  Applying the truths and wisdom of nurturing my soul, becoming all that God desires for me.  So, when I found out that she was looking for people to participate in her new book launch, I was falling all over myself to sign up!  True to Bonnie's heart and style, this new book, Whispers Of Rest is pure refreshment. Click here to buy your copy.

Arriving at just the right time when I needed to move out of "production and accomplishment mode", into a season of restoration and rejuvenation.

I have underlined, and made notations in each section. With Bonnie's gentle, guiding tone, she ushers me into the presence of Jesus, and the amazing journey of living as The Beloved.

I really enjoy how the book is designed.  It truly is like a trail guide.  Helping one to stop and notice how The Spirit of God is intimately at work in our lives. With Scripture, mediation & prayer practices, quotes, challenges, and research information, each chapter guides you through a theme for the day.

One of my favorite readings was day 14. - Choose Grace.

"Your art, your voice matters.  Let grace in, not guilt.
Be present, not perfect
Don't wait until the critical voices die down."

"Grace means we are no longer trying to make up for our weaknesses.  Give yourself permission to express God's beauty in you--fully, just as you are.  Don't wait to be yourself with God.  Not tomorrow when you feel more qualified.  Not later, when you are no longer struggling.  Don't wait until you're no longer broken." 

"Stop thinking about grace and put grace into action.  Start responding to God's love--instead of other's expectations of what is beautiful or good enough."

This continues to be a powerful motivator for me.  Realizing that so often I live my life listening to my critics, or my inner critic.  Having a perspective of guilt instead of grace. I'm practicing this more and more, as I want my life to be full of grace and freedom.  The chapter continues with the following:

"You Are Worth It"
"It's an automatic response when I want to share something free from my heart--when I'm drawn to do something I want to enjoy.  I begin to feel guilty for not doing something earlier--for something I did, didn't do, or did wrong. 
 I beat myself up.  I replay my mistakes.  I waste enormous amounts of energy reenacting how I could have done it differently.  I feel bad.  I feel that I am bad.  
We become afraid to fully lean into that feeling of rest.  And joy.  Or peace.  We might not think we deserve rest or special attention.  We might not think we've earned it.  We may be afraid to give time and attention to nurture our passion. 
 Am I really worth it?  you may silently ask. 
 In the heart of every woman.  God whispers, 
Yes.  You are worth it.  
You are my Beloved.  You are mine.  
One of the reasons we allow guilty feelings to rule is that we feel safe when we don't try.  No one can hurt us if we don't do anything. We can't feel rejected if we never attempt to blossom.  
We won't have regrets , we tell ourselves.  But there is a longing God placed in us that doesn't go away.  Every woman longs to dream, to feed her soul and rest.  Everyone longs to move beyond coping and surviving.  Every woman longs to be loved.

WOW!  This is where I feel stuck.  I continually struggle with feelings of guilt that I put on myself for not "performing up to par".  It is hard to know how to balance "promoting oneself", when running a business, and then "pampering oneself" to become renewed, and rested.

I am learning to view myself as The Beloved.  Asking Jesus how to move forward.  Listening to Him when He just wants me to stop and "play" or "rest"...To be thankful for how He tenderly loves and cares for me.  When I stop, and rest with Him, I am caring for my soul just as He intends.  I am not a machine that only produces.  I am made in His awesome image.  He is continuing to teach me what living in His image and His presence looks like.

I am a creative maker soul.  I love to surround myself with works that I've made from my hands.  The cross stitch hanging behind me is my heart on display.  I always wanted to be a Mom.  God allowed me the honor and privilege to become a mom to two precious children.  What a delight they are to me.  The JOY of watching them grow into whom God created them to be is extremely soul satisfying.  Now, I am a gramma to four lovelies.  I continue to take the scripture to heart: (3 John 1:4
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth").  My continual prayer as I am growing and learning to live as The Beloved, is to help teach my children and grandchildren that same blessing.

Thank you Bonnie, for using your calling, and gifts to encourage other women...even Gramma's on the path of abundant living.

Handcrafting Your Holidays-Classes on Skillshare

The Skillshare Channel Challenge is completed.

I am feeling such a sense of accomplishment.  I finished a three month project of posting three new classes on Skillshare.  This may not seem like a big feat for some, but for me, completing this during my busiest months of the year is a giant leap.

I work in retail.  I have always worked in retail.  It is a known fact, that retail's busiest months are the "ber" months.  September, October, November, and December.   So, for me to make new class projects to show to students, and to come up with an outline of classes, and teach the classes; these are "big deals" in my book.

Normally, I would be one who skims over this accomplishment, letting the "brain gremlins" tell me that  I need to do more.  But this time, I'm taking captive the negative thoughts.  I'm not going to let them set up camp in my brain.  I am choosing to have joy in the moment.  Relish the accomplishment.  Breathe.  Reflect.  Be still, and know that God is God over all. {Psalm 46:10}

If you are interested in taking a look at my latest class on Skillshare, you can find it here.

I enjoyed the whole process of making these classes.  I have a passion for making handcrafted gifts that are custom designed for the recipients.  Coming up with these projects designs, fed my creative spirit.  I would love your feedback and input if you have a chance.  Thank you so much for reading, and for being with me on this part of my journey.

May you have a blessed Christmas season.

New Class on Skillshare- Handcrafting Your Holidays

Exciting news to share!  I've just posted my second class on Skillshare.  It is part one of a three part series titled.

                                         Handcrafting Your Holidays.

 

The first class teaches you how to iron on paper with fusible web.  One of my favorite techniques.  A great and easy way to add dimension to your paper crafting .

I would love it if you would take the class and give me a review.  Skillshare is a GREAT way to participate in a huge variety of classes for a different types of interests.

For those already a part of Skillshare, use the Premium link: http://skl.sh/2cCZGSc
For those new to Skillshare, use the FREE link: http://skl.sh/2dqr73S

Thank you for reading my blog, and for following me along the path that God has set before me.
Blessings to you!

Easy DIY Felt Craft Kits CLASS on SKILLSHARE

This past summer, I had the opportunity for huge leap of faith and a giant stretch of my computer and tech knowledge; when I was asked to teach a class on Skillshare.

Having never before heard of Skillshare, I began to investigate what this was all about.  My sleuthing led me to find a treasure trove of classes of all types and kinds.  From crafting, culinary, computer, photography, and so much more.
This is what you can find if you Google "Skillshare".

"Skillshare is a learning community for creators and makers. Anyone can join Skillshare to enroll in online classes, watch video lessons, create projects, and even become a teacher. Our mission at Skillshare is to unlock the world's creativity."

So, I took up the challenge, and published my first class!  Part of the whole process was frustrating.  Part of the whole process was exhilarating.  

For me, it was a renewing of my past passion to teach.  Recalling my past employment opportunities where I was able to teach craft classes.  A stirring arose, and now we will see where it takes me.

You can view my first class here     Easy DIY Felt Craft Kits:

Stay tuned, as more classes are on their way!

Independent Consultants Wax Dipping Fans

I have exciting news to announce!  Pear Creek Cottage is offering a brand new promotion!  

 Monthly Wax Dipping  BOGO packs.

"Calling all past, present and future; Scentsy Independent Consultants-

Pear Creek Cottage is starting a new offering, just for you!

 

Felt Kit of the Month BOGO’s

 

Here’s how it works:

Each month a new wax dipping felt kit will be featured.  When you purchase the featured kit, you will also receive a FREE pre-determined kit of the month.  Buy one, get one!

 

Add the featured kit to your cart.  During checkout leave me a message in the “note to seller” box that you want this month’s BOGO.   You must indicate when purchasing the “Kit of the Month” that you want the BOGO, or it won’t happen if you don’t notify me.  Limit of one free pack per customer.  

 

You may use your normal return customer Coupon Code on the BOGO pack as well.

 

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and my blog to stay posted on upcoming BOGO offerings, and new die shapes that we are always adding.

 

BLOG
http://pearcreekcottage.blogspot.com/

TWITTER
http://www.twitter.com/pearcrkcottage

FACEBOOK
https://www.facebook.com/PearCreekCottage

PINTEREST
http://www.pinterest.com/PearCrkCottage/

INSTAGRAM
https://www.instagram.com/janmb40/"

I have been so blessed to be serving this great community of Independent Consultants for over two years.  I wanted  to say "thank you" and offer a token of my appreciation to all of you.  It has been an exciting journey that we have traveled together.

We've watched Spice Dawn "You Tube" videos. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erNIp2cPCXk

 Experimented with new ideas, and shapes.  We've shared our life experiences together, and for this; I am truly grateful.

Starting September 1st, the Wax Dip Kit of the Month is:......(drum-roll please)

Purchase the Candy Corn pack, and received a FREE pack of Sport Icons

Each month will feature a new pack to purchase and a new pack that is FREE.

Please share this news!  Shout it from the rooftops!  Blog about it!  Instagram it.  Let's get this great news out!

Artful Journey

 This past year in 2015, I was able to accomplish one of my "dreams"!  I've always been intrigued by the many facets of mixed media art.  In fact, I somewhat considered myself a mixed media experimental creator.  I love mixing art forms, from fabrics to paints, papers to fibers, creating cohesion, and usually finishing off by embellishing with buttons, ribbons, charms and all sorts of fun "do-dads" 

My dream was to take a class which would help me find more of my style, and teach me some tricks of the trade.  I had a great opportunity to take an online class from the masterful Kelly Rae Roberts!  Her art work is so inspiring; but for me, her story is even more inspiring.  Being a student under her teaching was an experience that I will always remember.

 In taking this class, and in letting myself discover what lay inside of me, I officially began my "artful journey". I'm continually discovering the gifts that The Master Creator has hidden away in me, just waiting for the right season for these gifts to "bloom". Even to the point of calling myself an "artist" was a stretch for me, as I previously considered true artists as those who painted for a living.  As my definition of an artist is becoming modified, so is my gradual acceptance of myself. 

 I'm beginning to embrace the terminology, but more importantly I'm unfolding and becoming whom God intended for me to be at this point and season of my life. As I continue to discover the hidden treasures inside, I see in my art these treasures being revealed.  Whatever may happen along this path, I will view my art as part of my own uncovering, a chapter in the book of my life story.  I hope that when others view my pieces, that they too will be inspired to pursue their dreams and begin a journey of their own, discovering how The Master Creator designed them. Below are some of my very favorites 

New Year-New Products

New Listings in the shop!
With each New Year that comes, not only is it a fresh start for me, but also Pear Creek Cottage.  Fresh new ideas of items to make.  Revamping older listings, and general updating! There is something about the promise of Spring coming, with its fresh newness of life, that spills over into all areas of my life!
 One thing that I've recently started is Bible Journaling.  I've been following  "#Illustrated Faith" on social media sights, and seeing the Bible pages and words come to life with artful creativeness, is inspiring.   I decided to start where I am at, without thinking that I would have to spend a lot of money purchasing items to get started.  I have an arsenal of scrapbooking and card making tools that have been collected over 30 years old being in that particular business, so, I jumped right in!  I found a Bible on my shelf that I thought would work for me to illustrate and journal in.  I collected my art supplies from drawers and cupboards and placed them together in my prayer "nook".  What an exhilarating experience this has been.
 Because PCC is based on inspiring others to create, I knew that as I created items to use in my own Bible Art, that I would also like to share these ideas and make them available to my customers.  In this post, I show two different listings that are now in my shop, and how I used them to create a page in my a Bible.

These blank hands are great journal spots for Bible art.  Here is the link to the listing at Pear Creek Cottage.https://www.etsy.com/listing/270576304/hands-and-feet-journaling-cards-paper?

ref=shop_home_active_18

I love the idea of using my own fingerprints to make the background on these pages.

For this page, I used paint, and ink pens for the right side of the page.  On the opposite page, I used pre-printed journal cardstock attached with colored tape.  I am a big fan of "family" and "home" themed products, so these pre-printed journal cards are just perfect for me.  You can find this listing in my shop here:https://www.etsy.com/listing/270798088/vintage-theme-tag-kit-diy-gift-tags?ref=shop_home_active_10
Thank you for stopping by and traveling along with me on this journey.