You Do Not Want to Miss Out on This Great Sale

First of all, I know that it has been some time since this page has been updated.  This is due some health issues that I have been suffering with for the past few months.  It has been difficult to do some of my daily tasks, so keeping up with the business just has not been a priority.  My health was more important.

For this reason, it is with a heavy heart that I came to the decision to close my business, Kimberz Kreations, for the time being.  Since surgery last summer, I have really been struggling with using my hand.  I feel that this has affected the quality of the greeting cards that I have created.  This is just not ok with me.  I also am having difficulty with creating cards in great numbers as I used to be able to do.

After the holidays, I became very ill and no treatment was working.  Coupled with my fibromyalgia, I have been struggling terribly for the past 4 months just to function.  Everything with fibromyalgia is more difficult!  This is the worst I have had it in a very long time.

I appreciate all of my customers and will miss interacting.  But, I believe this is the best for me at this time.  But not to worry, I am clearing out a lot of my old stock and hundreds of items that I use to create my cards.

Now is the time to visit and follow my Ebay store, Kimberz Kreations.  I am adding new items frequently.  You will be able to find everything you need to create your own cards, scrapbooking and many other crafts.  Most items are new and all are in perfect condition.  Below, I will list some of the items available.

• Stampin' Up Rubber Stamp Sets and singles
• Various Branded Rubber Stamps
• Metal Cutting Dies
• Hundreds of Embellishments; flowers, stones and more
• Ribbon (all colors and sizes)
• Cardstock Cards and Envelopes
• Much Much More!!

Coming soon, I plan on adding even more stamps, embellishments, paper, ink and ink pads.

Stop by and see us on Ebay!  Follow our store so you are updated when new items are added.

Thank you all for your business over the years.

My Fibromyalgia Journey

My fibromyalgia journey has been a long and difficult one.  Some days are better than others--as is usually the case with this condition.  I have a love/hate relationship with the disease.  It sounds rather odd, I know.  I will explain, but first...

I was in a near head-on car collision in August of 2000.  Prior to that time, I had not had much experience with pain, other than after surgery and the emotional pain of infertility.  The crash changed my life in any number of ways.

The driver that hit me had been drinking and failed to yield while making a left turn at a stop light.  I was traveling at nearly 45mph and had no time to hit the brakes.  The airbag deployed, but I hit hard and had several abrasions and a severe neck injury.  I was immediately taken to the hospital for the usual round of tests, x-rays and CAT scans.  Within 24 hours, the stiffness that usually follows a car accident began, followed soon after I got my first migraine.

Over the following 3 years, I suffered daily with migraines and neck pain.  I was treated by a neurologist and multiple other specialists.  Over time, the migraines began to improve with treatment, but never completely went away.  It was a difficult time for me, but eventually I learned to live with the discomfort and pain.  However, the pain in my neck and back seemed to radiate to other parts of my body.  The pain never went away.

After many trips to several doctors, multiple treatments and medications, with the constant pain that couldn't be explained, my neurologist asked me to undergo one more test.  It was a trigger point test.  Of 18 trigger points, 15 were sensitive.  He told me he finally had an explanation, fibromyalgia.

At that time, I had never even heard of fibromyalgia.  I did not know what it was.  He explained with the basic description and told me that there was no real treatment except antidepressants and anti-inflammatories.  And so it began.

I quickly began gathering all the information that I could find on fibromyalgia.  I wanted to understand what it was and how I could treat it without medication.  I quickly learned that the future looked bleak, but I was determined to find my way through the maze of information.

I struggled through the first five years with the disease trying to keep my life as normal as possible.  Trying to keep moving so that I didn't end up immobile as I had read many had ended up.  I went to work, took care of my home, my husband, child and sick, elderly family members.

In 2008, I surrendered to the idea that more was not always better.  I needed to slow down a little and take care of myself.  I left work and began my journey through accepting my "disability".  It took me fours years of fighting the system to finally get approved for my disability.

One of the most difficult parts of this journey was beginning it at the age of 29.  Feeling as if you are elderly through your 30s and into your 40s is difficult.  Accepting this is your "new" life has not been easy at all.  But, the love/hate relationship I have with fibromyalgia is this...with the struggle through the disease, I would have no understanding of just how strong I could be.  Fibromyalgia has taught me many things.  Most of all, it has taught me that no matter what is thrown my way, I can survive it.  I may not get through it the way I think I should or how someone else might, but I will get through it.

I am empowered by my disease an spend time now taking care of myself and educating those around me.  My family, friends and loved ones have an understanding of my condition and its limitations on me.  I know I have support of my community.

The best description I have is found in the song "Fighter" by Christina Aguilera.  The words to the song seem to give me strength.  The lyrics go something like this:

After all of the stealing and cheating you probably think that
I hold resentment for you
But uh uh, oh no, you're wrong
'Cause if it wasn't for all that you tried to do, I wouldn't know
Just how capable I am to pull through
So I want to say thank you

'Cause it makes me that much stronger
Makes me work a little bit harder
It makes me that much wiser
So thanks for making me a fighter
Made me learn a little bit faster
Made my skin a little bit thicker
Makes me that much smarter
So thanks for making me a fighter

Always remember that even in the times when you think you cannot go on and that no one else understands your pain, there are those of us out there that do.  There is support everywhere, everyday.  So, help me in supporting Fibromyalgia Awareness Day every May 12th.  Wear purple and turn your Facebook purple in support of all of us that fight each day.

Fibromyalgia Awareness Day - May 12, 2017

May 12th is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.  It is dedicated to women, men and children struggling with the debilitating disease, fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a neuromuscular disease that creates widespread pain throughout your body.  Each person with disease describes many similar symptoms, some have many of the symptoms but not always all of them.  Symptoms also seem to come and go are associated or masked as other diseases such as arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis and others.

Fibromyalgia has no known cause, however, it is thought to be caused from a traumatic injury or heredity.  The speculation continues as research is done.

Each patient has their own description of their particular take on the disease and how their body reacts to them.  There are many symptoms that are a commonality in most patients.  Some of these symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness is trigger points throughout the body
• Fatigue
• Sleep Disturbances/Insomnia
• Cognitive Problems (brain fog, trouble paying attention or retaining information)
• Depression and Anxiety
• Weakness
• Tingling and/or Itching in Your Extremities
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Chronic Muscle Pain and/or Stiffness
• Migraines or Chronic Headaches
• Back Pain
• Stabbing or Burning Pain
• Sensitivity to Temperature, Touch and Light
• Aching All Over
• Dizziness
• Twitching
• Weight Gain
• Nausea
• Reproductive Problems
• Chemical Sensitivity
• And MANY MANY MORE!

The National Fibromyagia and Chronic Pain Association does a lot to raise awareness and further research.  Celebrity, Dr. Oz, has also brought awareness to our issues through informative shows that explain fibromyalgia and the latest research and treatments.

This description and explanation of fibromyalgia only shows the tip of the iceberg.  In my next post, I will explain my symptoms and life changes since being diagnosed several years ago.

Beach Themed Summer Birthday Card Designs

It's been a busy couple of weeks.  The quarterly doctor visits and wellness checks to help keep my fibromyalgia and arthritis in check.  Well, at least as in check as is possible.  I have also been receiving treatment for a painful heel spur (ouch!).  Two appointments a week for the past three weeks.  I'm not entirely sure what the appropriate name for the treatment is, but it is basically a laser massage treatment.  Let's just say it has worked a miracle.

I have been dealing with a heel spur for nearly 18 months.  I have seen multiple doctors and had multiple injections without relief.  I finally found a specialist that was willing to try something new.  I can only say that I am impressed.  After 6 half hour treatments, I can now walk pain free.  Yeah!

With all these appointments, I have had little time to create new cards or time to finish setting up my Etsy store.  I promise it is coming soon.  One final project to take care of next weekend, the big post-move garage sale.  Once that is complete, I promise to have the store up and running and even more designs being released.

Until then, let us take a look at what I have been up to.  I am excited not only to create these fabulous beach themed cards, but to show them to you.

This gorgeous card uses various stamps and paper.  It is one of my premium cards.  The inside of the card not only includes a birthday sentiment, but colorful stamping to match the outside of the card.

This adorable little mermaid card is sure to be a huge hit with children or adults.  It was created with Stampin' Up stamps and Paper Studio anchor embossing folder.  It was so much fun to create.

Don't forget to leave your comments or suggestions.  You can stay up-to-date on new designs and sales here and on Facebook.  You are also welcome to visit me on Ebay.

You do not want to miss out on my grand re-opening sale.  All cards ship for free, plus you get an additional $5.00 off when purchasing two sets.  Stop by for a visit!

New and Exciting Thank You Designs

It's hard to believe that we are already in April.  Seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the holidays.  It has been a busy three months for me, but opening day is quickly approaching.  I have had some minor set backs, and of course, life always seems to get in the way.

It is nice having a job that I love. creating.  My physical condition does not allow me to do as much as I used to or even as much as I would like.  Over the past 8 years, I have been suffering with a debilitating condition in my left hand and thumb.  Even though I am right-handed, sometimes certain activities require the use of both hands.  Pinching, squeezing or even pressure can make my card making difficult at times.

Approximately every three months or so I stroll in to the orthopedic surgeon for a lovely cortisone injection that I pray will last longer than the last.  Occasionally I am lucky enough to get about 8-10 weeks of relief.  Recently, though, this has not been the case.  I am lucky if I get 6-8 weeks of relief.

As I am told by my surgeon, the only surgery to fix this condition is normally only performed on patients that are over the age of 60.  At age 45, I am a long way from fitting into that category.  Until then, I try injections, creams, medication or any other crazy thing that I think may give me relief.

I have told you this story so that others who suffer from fibromyalgia coupled with rheumatoid arthritis understand that you may not always be able to do ALL the things you would like, but you can use those good days to take the time to do something you love.

As promised, I wanted to share a few of my new designs in thank you cards.  I hope you enjoy them as much as I have in creating them. 

I enjoy designing and creating thank you cards of all sorts.  I always try to keep in mind that some people really like color, but some enjoy a simpler neutral color palette.

These new sets will be available in my stores soon.  They offer a mixture of color and neutrality.

Stay tuned for information on store opening sales.  Prices will be reduced and for a limited time, free shipping will be offered.

My Life with Fibro...Series 2

Some days it feels like life just drags us through, whether we are ready to follow along or not.  That sure seems to be the case for me at the moment.  It seems that the harder I try to slow myself down and take care of myself and my health, the harder life pulls.

Having fibromyalgia doesn't give anyone the right to be lazy for sure, as that is the worst thing that you can do for your condition.  But, why is it that so many who do not suffer with the disease cannot see that in doing what they would consider an easy task takes me at least three times the effort?  Invisible disease?  Well, yes it is.

If I could magically show them every single ache and pain that I have, I think I would.  If I could put into words how tired I am...most days the minute I am out of bed...I would do that as well.  This is where the frustration comes in.  I understand that people can not fully grasp something that they have never experienced, but it seems that for the most part, empathy is dead.

Learning to live this life differently than I did even 10 years ago is the most difficult task.  Understanding in your own mind that you will never be the same is devastating to say the least.  This is where the psychological part of fibromyalgia steps in.  Depression is a real part of this disease.  The severity of the depression depends on each patient individually.

Each morning when I wake up, whether I want to or not, I sit up on the edge of the bed and mentally prepare myself for that first step.  The physical part will come, I always hope.  I say a little prayer that with that first step I am not in too much pain, that I do not fall down, that I can make it the few steps to the bathroom without bumping into anything, adding a new bruise.

I refuse to let this disease consume my life any more than it already has.  I am kind of a stubborn person (this is where my husband would laugh).  Even on my bad days, I make it my mission to get up and do just one thing.  Motivate myself through just one small task.  When I finish that task, I start the process over and try to overcome one more, until I can absolutely do no more.

In writing this blog, I have taken a huge step.  I am learning to overcome the fear of voicing my pain and struggles.  I ask for help when I need it.  And, I am learning that I am not the only person going through this. Always reminding myself that there are others out there that are in far worse condition than I am.  I have found many fibro-friends and we support each other.

My best advice....don't be afraid to tell your story and find others who truly understand your daily struggles, they are out there.  Let's support each other through this.

I'm Still Here!

WOW!  Can't believe that it has been a week since I last posted.  It has been a crazy time for sure...some good, some not so good.  So here I am to update any of those reading about my fibromyalgia plite.

First, I finally got the results back from my biopsy on my thyroid...GOOD NEWS!  The tumor is benign.  I don't have to deal with that whole situation again for another year, as long as there are no changes in the size, pain, etc.

Second, my left hand that I have been having pain in for the last four years and already had surgery on once two years ago, is getting ready to have another surgery.  At this point, my orthopedic surgeon is trying deligently to pinpoint the exact spot around my thumb that is causing all the trouble.  I will finally be brace free in three short days!  I am so excited about that.

Lastly, my husband and myself have made the difficult decision to sell his mother's home and contents.  She has Alzheimer's Disease and was sent to a nursing home a little over a year ago.  The house has sat vacant for the past year as we all tried to come to terms with what needs to be done.  I would never wish that upon anyone.  Needless to say, it going to be a long and difficult summer as we box up possessions and memories and auction them off in September.

With my fibromyalgia and the impending surgery on my hand, the task at hand is going to become even more difficult physically than someone is healthy.  Please say a little prayer.

So, for now, alot of my projects that I was planning on completing and sharing with you will just have to wait a bit.  I still intend to complete them and to keep my promise to blog about my daily experiences living with fibromyalgia.

Color your world and go out and create something beautiful!

Fibromyalgia Awareness Day

I wanted to take a few minutes today to remind everyone that today is Fibromyaglia Awareness Day.  I hope that you are wearing your purple to show your support for this invisible disease.  Let's show the world that when you are a fibromyalgia sufferer, or know one, that it is a very real disease.

My Fibro Experience - Series

Tomorrow is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.  It is a day set aside to bring awareness to this invisible disease.  Many communities have Fibromyalgia Awareness Events scheduled to help raise money for research and a cure.  Unfortunately, my community does not have any activities scheduled, however, I did find a great resource to aid me bringing an event to my area in the future.  If you would like to see how to bring an event to your area you can read How to Organize a Fibromyalgia Awareness Event and get some great information for organizing and planning.

Fibromyalgia comes in many shapes and sizes.  Each person suffers and survives in different ways.  In my case, I just pull myself up each morning and make myself go.  Some days I can "suck it up" and others it is just not that easy.

For the past three years, I have been having trouble with my left hand.  In 2010, I had carpal tunnel surgery and index trigger finger release surgery.  Following the surgery, the pain seemed to increase and moved to the joint in my thumb.  I was sent to doctor after doctor for this test, x-ray, MRI, etc, and nothing showed a problem, other than rheumatoid arthritis.

Over the years, I have learned that you must be persistent when comes to your own body and healthcare.  I changed doctors (orthopedic) and continued to insist that something be done to reduce the pain.

In the past year, the use of my left hand has diminished dramatically.  I have not been able to hold on to anything with any kind of weight (i.e. bottles of water, etc).  If I couldn't balance something between my fingers, it was on the floor.  The use of my fingers and thumb is very limited.

Finally, two years from the first surgery, my doctor is considering surgery to repair and/or relieve my pain and give me use of my hand again.  I am not excited to have another surgery, but have come to believe that any relief and/or use of my hand is better than what I have now.  So, the waiting has begun.

My purpose in sharing this story with you is to show you that persistence pays off, eventually.  It is your body and your health.  If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.  Fibromyalgia patients most usually can tell when a pain is "normal" or not.  If something doesn't seem right and your doctor isn't taking you serious, keep after them or get a second opinion.

DISCLAMIER:  I am not a medical professional and do not offer medical advice.  I am simply sharing my own experiences.  This should not be considered medical advice in any way.

Don't forget to wear your purple tomorrow to show that you are either a sufferer of Fibromyalgia, or know someone who is.  Let's show the world that Fibromyalgia is real!

More Fibromyalgia Talk

I wanted to continue the previous discussion of living with fibromyalgia.  Many of us who suffer tend to get caught up in the feeling that no one understands or is going through what we are.  Guess what?  There are millions of us out there.  In fact, there are at least thousands with your exact issues.

There are so many doctors out there who have no understanding of fibromyalgia and all of its aspects on your health.  In my experience, most general practice doctors either do not have enough formal training on this disease or just don't want to have to deal with the "complaints" of its sufferers.  Therefore, they send you on to a specialist, usually a neurologist or rheumatologist.  These doctors do offer a bit more information, but I haven't found one that I feel takes my disease completely serious.  They continually prescribe medication and change it up every 3-6 months if it doesn't seem to work.  Eventually, they seem to give up on trying to soothe the aches and pains and offer no more assistance.

That sounds very harsh, I know.  I am not at all saying that good doctors aren't out there.  I have had both good and bad ones.  I don't want to beat up on them all.   However, I would love to see more doctors in large urban areas that are specialized in nothing but fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndrome.

Recently, I was sent for an MRI due to severe hand pain.  Don't ask!  I know, what does your head have to do with your hand?  I asked and received a long answer from the doctor.  I digress.  The MRI found a "nodule" on my thyroid and an ultrasound was ordered.  The ultrasound found a large mass on my thyroid.

At first I was wondering why this on top of everything else.  Then I found an interesting article that described that thyroid issues can plaque those with fibromyalgia.  How did I miss this in all my research?  Anyway, here is the link for you to read the article if you like:  Fibromyalgia and Your Thyroid

I do not wish to seem like I am rambling.  Well, I kind of am.  But, my point to this post for those with fibromyalgia is:  Always be aware of your body.  If you have new symptoms or pains, do not disregard them as a side effect of your disease.  We all hate practically living at the doctor's office, but your well being is worth having checked, even if it seems you are a hypocondriac.  I would much rather carry that label than to disregard a symptom of a more serious problem which could take my life.

I am currently scheduled and anxiously awaiting the thyroid biopsy to determine if this mass is cancerous.  I will keep you posted.

Let's Talk About Fibromyalgia

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia over nine years ago.  I didn't completely understand the disease and what it did.  Anyone that I had ever come into contact with who had this disease was either in a wheelchair or walking with the assistance of a cane.  I have to say that I was terrified.

I made it my mission to gather all the information I could about this disease and talk to anyone who knew anything about it.  I knew that there was no cure, so I was in for a life sentence.  Books became my most important ally at first, then I moved on to the internet.  I read anything that mentioned fibromyalgia.

I admit that after that period of time, about two years, I fell into a deep depression.  I cursed God and didn't understand why this was happening to me.  It took me a long time to come to an understanding with myself.  I could either let fibromyalgia get the best of me and end up in a wheelchair, or I could fight with everything I had to stay mobile and take back control of my life.

My first order of business was to get my body moving every single day, whether I felt like it or not.  It is hard, most days very hard.  But, I still do it.  My new motto is, "No Pain, No Gain".  I refuse to give in to this.  I will not go down fighting.  

I think that the most difficult thing for me everyday is the "Fibro Fog" or brain fog.  It is frustrating and sometimes embarassing when I can't find a word and voice it.  People look at you like you have gone insane.  Some days, that is exactly what it feels like.  

My combat for the fog is to keep my brain as active as my body.  This too is difficult.  Probably more difficult than forcing a body in pain to move is forcing a brain to function.  I read a lot, play memory games on the computer, anything that makes me think through every process.

I hope to continue putting my story out there in future posts.  I know that in my research, reading someone else's story made me understand better that I am not the only one on earth going through this.  It also made me realize that I am not as bad off as some who are fighting fibromyalgia.

You are welcome to leave your comments and stories.  I will read every one.  Support and awareness are the best defense.