1. Your name, nickname and a little about who you are
Hi, my name is Laura (although I didn't know that until I was 8, but that is a whole different story for another someday). I am teeheeproductions. I have been carrying that name in my head for about ten years now hoping someday to use it for something like this. Although, at the time I certainly had no vision of where the technology would take us all. The only concerns I have about the name teehee are two: one, it’s too "cutesy" and if you knew me at all you wouldn't put the word "cute" with me; and, two, it could sound like a porn site. I hope not!
I am 57 years old and as corny as it is to say -- I have never been happier in my life. Other than graying, getting flabby - er (regardless of the gym I don't go to as often as I should), sagging neck, aches and pains that surprise me everyday, this is a great time of life. I have a wonderful husband (my second and last), a 26 year old daughter in Arizona, a 26 year old soon to be married step-daughter in California and a 28 year old married step-son with a wonderful wife and precious 6 year old son here in New Jersey.
The reasons for my (can't call it mid-life cause I don't plan on living to be 116 and I am not a senior citizen yet despite my AARP membership) contentment are many. I won't articulate them all here (that's a novel no one wants to read). Suffice it to say I have had enough negative experiences to find myself delighted with what my life is today. And... a lot of therapy and medication (not kidding there). That's why you'll see me pop into threads from time to time with my little rambling stories when I hear someone's familiar trying times = been there, done that kind of thing. Although the biggest lesson I have learned in my life is HOW REALLY WRONG I CAN BE - OFTEN!
2. Surprise us with something about you that you think will shock us!
There is nothing about me that I could surprise anyone here with because we don't really know each other yet. I'll save any surprises for our ongoing friendship... much more fun.
3. What is your main craft/art/collectible?
My main "craft" is fine art, I guess you would call it. I love drawing, painting, designing, and creating. I don't do all the beautiful crafts I see here but have a real appreciation for them. And, I was always the mom who helped out with "artistic" things for school shows, etc. I came up with some really cool themes and creations especially for middle school dances if anyone wants some ideas.
4. How did you start with Etsy?
I spent most of my career in corporate (not liking that at all - but had to earn a living). I am home now as a result of being one of the many people being laid off in this economy. And that is how I discovered "Etsy" and that's how I rediscovered my love of art. Right now I am absolutely consumed with my artwork.
5. Any secrets to share for success? ?
My daily goal is to: start something new, finish something old, and think of a project to calendar. I have never enjoyed working this hard this much. I would love to have a modicum of success dollar wise so that I don't have to go back to work when the unemployment stops. I recently realized how lucky I am to have something to do that I won't grow too old to continue doing (even in a wheelchair in a home somewhere - as long as I have some bit of my mind).
6. Hobbies or pastime when you are not doing Etsy
My hobbies and interests are all over the place. I will say that none of them are "active", much to the disappointment of my husband. I am not a sports fan, I don't run, bike, or anything like that. I love reading, world cultures, constitutional law, and great literature. But, I am as likely to watch C-Span for hours or documentaries on PBS as I am to watch The First 48 or Cops or Judge Judy. The idea of traveling doesn't excite me until I get there if you know what I mean.
7. Where would your dream vacation be? and why?
I had that this year. My husband and I decided not to wait any longer and to go to
8. What do you hope to contribute and gain from Hearts and Hands United?
As far as HHU - I hope to contribute a bit of my experience, a dose of my perspective, a whole lot of my support and energy. And what I hope to gain I am already seeing - a new opportunity to meet and get to know some really cool, sweet, creative, funny, sincere people.
9. Where can we find you?
