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Sugar Lump Studios

Art by Nancy Maxwell James

{A Little Faith – Post-Stroke Journal}

January 7, 2015

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I am so happy to share another project with you this week I started working on as part of Occupational therapy in October. This journal contains snippets from my recovery August 18 – December 23, 2014. Special moments, memories, milestones and friends that got me through. There are so many FRIENDS online that have been there for me 110% too!

I selected a 7 Gypsies album (Kraft) and altered it using aqua craft paints, old recipe ephermera (from a cookbook) and white doilies. I sealed that all with matte gel medium. The photos were taken into a photo editing program and changed to a “sepia” tone. I included bits of computer text as well. My handwriting is still pretty much gone for my standards. I used to have really pretty handwriting, but I can write and that is how I need to look at things for now.

I am really pleased yet again that I DID IT. When I was in acute rehab at the hospital, my goal was to use my hands again…forget walking. Walking comes first though, and the fine motor comes later.

Today, it is a high of 9 degrees Fahrenheit and my foot and hand are FREEZING. I am feeling sorry for myself and took this picture of my foot that took quite a hit from the stroke. I am flat footed and my right foot actually has an arch now. I’m coming out of the closet to share this so publicly (I shared it on Facebook with my friends earlier today) and yes I am a bit whiny today. Probably I should have stayed under the covers today!  :-)

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I started round #4 of Physical Therapy this week at a new location. I’ve been there before a few years back, and I requested the same girl. She will work wonders, and yes we will be concentrating on this foot. I knew in July, that the foot was one thing they were not sure would recover…but then they aren’t sure on any of it. Each patient if different. Each stroke is different. I just want back what I had and the fight is not over till I say so!

Thanks again for your ongoing support and sweet comments of encouragement. One thing I love about this is so many of you have come of “lurking”…I knew you were out there from my web stats…but that you actually say things now means a lot!

Happy Wednesday!

Filed in: journals • by Sugar Lump Studios • 19 Comments

About Sugar Lump Studios

I am a dabbler. I love to create using all sorts of mediums...pattern papers, stamping, fabric, assemblage, collage, altered art, a never ending smattering of whatever strikes my fancy in whimsical moments. I find creating allows my soul to be fulfilled and love to spend hours in the studio.

Comments

  1. Karen Otterbacher aka Roosterhead designs

    January 7, 2015 at 1:40 pm

    I must admit, I’m a lurker:) but wanted to say how happy I am to see such creativity from you; despite the struggles~
    You are an inspiration to all of us ‘out here’ and hope you have a beautiful rest of the week~
    Karen

    Reply
  2. Jacky S

    January 7, 2015 at 2:20 pm

    I love this,Nancy….it is stunning….the colours are beautiful…..and it is such an amazing achievement to have come this far so quickly.
    I hope tomorrow will be a better day for you…..I’m sure we are all frequently whiny…..and with a lot less reason than you!

    Reply
  3. Bernadette

    January 7, 2015 at 5:00 pm

    We’re out here cheering for you! I, too, an a stroke person and know what you are going through. You will get through this.
    Blessings to you!

    Reply
  4. Beth Leintz

    January 7, 2015 at 7:30 pm

    Congratulations on how far along youve come with your recovery! Your album is beautiful and inspiring just like all your work.

    Reply
  5. Deb-Paxton Valley Folk Art

    January 8, 2015 at 6:39 am

    What a beautiful journal Nancy, it will always stand as a testament to your courage and strength. Your poor foot, looks like it’s been down in the trenches ; healing energy still flowing to you as you start your next round of physio.

    Reply
  6. April D.

    January 8, 2015 at 11:03 am

    I love your journal! What a wonderful way to document your journey towards healing. Having had a close family member go through this, I know the journey can be long, but hang in there sister! I’m praying for you and looking forward to all your posts. Who knows who you may touch with this and give courage to.

    Reply
  7. Ana K.

    January 8, 2015 at 11:58 am

    Your journal is fabulous…love every single page!
    Nancy, I wish you all the best and quick recovery!
    Hugs from Slovenia

    Reply
  8. Erica H

    January 8, 2015 at 12:58 pm

    Your journal is beautiful! I wish you nothing but the best on your continual road to recovery. You are strong and brave, and no matter what – you will achieve what you are meant to. Do your best and let God take care of the rest!

    Reply
  9. Linda K

    January 8, 2015 at 3:22 pm

    fabulous journal Nancy!! And you know what? Everyone has the right to a whiny day:)

    Reply
  10. Suzy

    January 9, 2015 at 5:17 am

    Hi Nancy
    Sooooo wonderful to see you back here sharing your inspirational work with us! What a special journal as you recorded some of the steps in your recovery. You must be feeling so proud of your efforts and so you should. It is FANTASTIC!!! It’s not what you create that matters it is the effort and the feeling in your heart that matters as you do it. In time it will become easier and easier – little by little with persistence which you have bucketfuls of.
    We all so admire you and how hard you work everyday in getting back everything you wish for!
    Sending some love and support as you stay on track sweet hearted woman!
    Hugs Suzy

    Reply
  11. Penne

    January 9, 2015 at 3:29 pm

    The journal is amazing and beautiful and I admire the tenacity you have had in forming it. It was your foot I found the most poignant. It is injured and changed but those feet have carried you through all your life, good times and bad times. That is one special foot, Nancy, thankyou for sharing it.

    Reply
  12. terry

    January 9, 2015 at 5:04 pm

    Nancy, I think your journal is gorgeous and a great healing therapy!! I know that 2015 will be much nicer to you and your will continue down the path to being 100%. Oh and feel free to whine as you deserve it! Hugs!

    Reply
  13. Kat

    January 10, 2015 at 6:50 am

    Happy New Year from another lurker who has written only once before! So good to see you making such wonderful progress – the little journal is lovely. May 2015 continue to see you making great strides in recovery!

    Reply
  14. Betty Helms

    January 11, 2015 at 1:41 am

    Hi Nancy-I’ve lurked but only because I have been super busy and just found out about your stroke. Bless your heart, but the progress you have made is a testament to your inner strength, the love surrounding you and good drs. I know of another artist who also recently suffered a stroke and she may be someone you may want to reach out to. Her name is Terrye French from The Painted Pear Basket. She, like you, had a such a whimsical way with her art work and I just thought the two of you may be able to help each other by sharing. I’ll try to peek in from time to time to see how you are doing. I’ve enjoyed reading about your progress, don’t give up! Anything is possible.

    Reply
  15. Terri

    January 11, 2015 at 12:23 pm

    Hello Dear Nancy,
    Your latest journal here is wonderful! What a healthy creative way to express! Each page is gorgeous, yes, but also so very loving of yourself, and healing!
    I am sorry about your foot : (
    I am sorry you had the stroke at all.
    I totally agree with you, your foot’s future is not yet known. That is such a good thought : )
    I am still thinking of you each day, wishing and praying for your best possible recovery and wellbeing. Hugs, Terri

    Reply
  16. Shelley

    January 14, 2015 at 5:36 am

    Oh, Nancy!!!

    I was so excited to just stop by here on a whim and see that you have been doing so well!!!! Your little journal is absolutely beautiful and amazing. I lost a leg 3 years ago and marveled at the determination of some of the stroke patients at my rehab facility. I know your improvement will continue. Praising God for all of the healing He has given you. You continue to be in my prayers so I can come here and drool at more eye candy that you share with us.

    be blessed~ Shelley

    Reply
  17. Marjorie

    January 14, 2015 at 10:54 pm

    Somehow I missed this posting at the time. I agree with everyone else, the journal is amazing. So wonderful that you still have such a creative spirit. (And that’s a very beautiful foot.)

    Reply
  18. Saucy Chick Sherry

    January 17, 2015 at 11:08 pm

    Nancy I am so happy to see you are able to create this beautiful and personal journal of recovery. Treasured memories to be certain. Prayers and Healing Energy continue as you begin another phase of your recovery. Blessings Dear…

    Reply
  19. Gaby Bee

    January 19, 2015 at 11:33 am

    This journal is gorgeous. I wish you all the best for 2015 and a quick recovery, Nancy!
    Keep up the good work.

    Gaby xo

    Reply

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