The Absentee Blogger

This is what I should rename this blog. I've been a terrible blogging slacker lately, although I do have an excuse - err, reason. I hate to complain (but will, of course) but my rheumatoid arthritis has been giving me tremendous problems. My rheumatologist has switched me to Orencia and I am looking forward to great positive changes from it. However, it sometimes takes several infusions before enough of it is in your system to make a difference. I've been having problems doing daily chores. He added Prednisone to my drug cocktail and at least now I can raise my arms above elbow level and can walk to the mailbox. I'm on a self-imposed driving restriction because I still have problems and a lot of pain using my hands. I'm afraid that, if there is an emergency, I may not be able to properly handle the steering wheel. I've been looking forward to an upcoming all-year high school reunion next weekend in Indiana but am fearful that I may have to skip it. Maybe the Prednisone will kick in enough by then that we can still go, but I'm apprehensive. Well, enough of that. The Ebay/Etsy group I belong to, AB4B, is having a special altered art swap with a theme of "Let Freedom Ring". The very talented Sandi Ramirez (www.shweetpotatodolls.com) was my partner. It was her first time to make altered art and the results were simply outstanding. She made this altered journal for me as well as the sweetest scrapbook: Here's a closeup of the journal cover and its inside cover as well as the scrapbook: See what I mean? Lucky me!!!! In turn, I sent her an altered tobacco tin and a felt window valance. I forgot to take pictures before mailing them out so I swiped the ones Sandi posted! And now for the big announcement: I've decided to suspend my monthly giftaways, at least for now. I can't rely on myself to post regularly right now and don't want to mislead anyone so I've removed it from my sidebar and hope you understand. So, until next time - lots of hugs! Sher