COVID-19.... An OpportunityTo Give Back!

April 10, 2020 ~ COVID-19 is something we all think about at some (or several) points throughout the day. It's all around us yet many of us still worry, stress and even panic at this pandemic. I find myself worrying about things I can't control and now have anxiety because of it. (Don't worry, I am able to manage it for now and just remind myself that we are all going through the same things and it's not just one demographic, one age bracket or one area of our country.) I find so much happiness in the number of people who have jumped in to help from sewing masks, mass grocery shopping for others who can't, cooking/donating to feeding children and so much more. Reading about these acts of kindness makes me smile.

As a local glass artist and Etsy Store Owner, I have stopped making any new product at this time. My Etsy Store, MidwayMercantileCo is stocked with many options of fused glass jewelry and gifts ready to ship out within 24-48 hours for FREE in the US (lower 48 states). I have plenty of product to add to my store if needed and hate the thought of my kiln being shut down. #StandWithSmall

You guys, I have wanted to do something to make a difference in the lives of others. I have said many prayers over the last several weeks and many of you know that I am not a selfish person (stubborn and hard-headed maybe but not selfish).  I do what I can to give back in many ways. To date, one of my favorite memories of giving back was for my 41st Birthday when I donated Angel Gowns made from my wedding dress to the hospital I was born at with my mom at my side. (You can watch the YouTube video by clicking on the link)

 Angel Gowns donated to Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, MO

My husband and I have been trying to support the local restaurants and locally-owned shops but I feel like that isn't enough. We can't eat out every meal but we certainly try to spread the love. As far as the locally-owned shops, thank you for trying new ways to showcase your products. I am sure you would have never dreamed social media could have such a great impact in these trying times but I hope you are seeing the love from so many! (I can't wait until I can get back in your shops and hug you!)

One of my friends, Shawn Barnes posted that he and his wife had decided to quarantine themselves apart until this was over to protect their daughters. His wife, Courtney is a doctor at a local hospital and while this was a super tough decision it was something they felt they needed to do. You guys, it broke my heart. Seeing the sacrifice that our medical profession has given during this crazy time is something that makes my heart hurt. I am so thankful that she is doing this to protect her family but with two young children, I know this isn't easy.  

This was the moment I knew what I wanted to do. 

After a lot of thinking,  I decided that I wanted to do something to give back to the nurses, doctors, and hospital staff for working around the clock to help others while putting themselves at risk. Since I am a Boone Baby I wanted to start with Boone Hospital Center here in Columbia, MO.  I initially worked with a friend and Boone Hospital Trustee, Jan Beckett who I told her my idea and then she connected me with one of their staff members to figure out how to get my idea delivered safely.  

I wanted to make fused glass hearts for the 2,089 hospital staff at Boone so that they could carry a heart in their pocket. When they begin to feel defeated or feel like they are losing hope they can hold this heart (or pray with it) as a gentle reminder that they are truly making a difference and they are loved. You guys, this is just as hard on our medical/hospital staff as they are working extremely hard and with limited supplies. Many of them are separating themselves from those they love to protect them as well. I am sure that the pressures of the job, dealing with families that can't be there with their loved ones and trying to keep themselves healthy certainly takes a toll on them. My hope is that this one small token of appreciation will remind them that we know they are doing the best they can and don't give up hope. 

Why is it my mission to make 2,089 fused glass hearts and not a lesser amount? 

When I asked how many doctors, nurses, and staff were at Boone Hospital Center I was originally told 1,700 and then after reconfirming the number increased to 2,089. I want to make sure every single staff member has a fused glass heart because from the janitors to technicians, to the nurses, to the doctors and to the CEO and every single person in between they are all important in my eyes. Every single person has a role at the hospital and they aren't any less important than the next person. If I am going to do something like this it was important to me that I include all 2,089.

Will you donate them all at once?

Sadly, I will not be able to donate all 2,089 at one time. I have a small Evenheat clamshell kiln that I use to make my jewelry and gifts. In order to make them in a quality look that I am happy with it requires 2 firings in the kiln per item. I am able to fully create 32-48 fused glass hearts per day or around 272 fused glass hearts per 7 days. I will donate 439 fused glass hearts today and continue donating every other week until I reach 2,089 total fused glass hearts. 

(I got a slower start as I needed to test and tune my process. I started with a lessor amount firing each day but now I am up to my full speed)

Each batch of fused glass hearts will be given to the appointed staff member in a plastic container. The container and fused glass hearts can be sanitized under whatever protocol they require at the hospital to ensure they are safe as they are dispersed among staff. (I will not be going to the hospital but rather meet at a disclosed location maintaining appropriate social distancing) 

The first round of donations ready for Boone Hospital Center!
439 Fused Glass Hearts! 

What is the purpose of this?

You guys, I live my life by paying it forward.  I simply wanted to spark an idea among everyone. We all have something we can give. Right now, we have time and I encourage you to use this time to help others because it helps us too. While I am working in my studio creating these fused glass hearts it keeps me focused and thinking about other things. It's something I can create and hopefully bring joy to others. Maybe you have a hidden talent and now you might have some time to give it a try! Have a sewing machine? There are many groups that need help sewing masks just look them up on Facebook. Are you good at tutoring? Many parents need help with homeschooling and would love to have someone they could lean on when their child(ren) have questions they can't answer. Technology makes this great for social distancing and you can work directly with the parents to figure out the need and how you can help with their supervision. Do you want something to do with your child(ren)? What about writing letters and drawing pictures to mail to a nursing home to brighten the day of those living there. There are so many ways we can help one another and keep safe distances.

Creating Fused Glass Hearts In My Studio:
Photo Credit: Yours truly! :)

  Safety first...get those glasses on!

Once you find the glass colors you want you will 

score the glass strips to 1/2" lengths.

It's always better to have a nice pile so that you can
focus on cutting several at one time rather than one at a time.

After the glass is scored you will then 

break the glass with Running Pliers.

I went ahead and made a nice pile of 1/2" strips 

to make the next step easier!

Now that you have the appropriate length, you will start making your hearts. 

Cutting the 1/2" strip to 1" rectangle and a 1/2" square for each fused glass heart. 

I started assembling the hearts on my tile so that they were ready for the kiln.
You will also cut Tekta (clear) glass to put on top so that your fused glass hearts are 6mm thick prior to going in the kiln. This makes for a better product and gives the thickness it needs.

I use a little dab of school glue to hold the Tekta (clear) glass on top of the
colored glass to keep things in place during the firing process.
(The glue burns off during the firing) 

Just trying to get everything to line up the best I can!

This batch is ready for the kiln! 

(I use a larger tile that will hold 16 hearts and this photo was of a test batch) 

The hearts to the right just need Tekta (clear) glass added then they are ready for the kiln!

Why yes, I am a perfectionist and put my heart and soul into my glass creations! 

I just want someone who receives one of my fused glass pieces to know that I want each item to be perfect as possible and with glass, you never know what you will get which is why I love this art form!  

Time to change out my glass trays! 

After removing the fully fired pieces it's time to add another tray in for its firing!
(Test batch)

Time to close the lid and wait for this batch to be done! 

This is the larger tile and you can see that after one firing in
the kiln they really don't have a good "heart" shape.

I have washed them and changed out the kiln paper, as it's only a one
time use to keep the glass from sticking to the tile, and flipped each
heart over to get ready for its second firing.

After the second firing, you can see they have a much better heart shape.
This to me is perfect to donate to the staff at Boone Hospital Center.

I realize that giving these fused glass hearts to the 2,089 staff members at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, MO is just one area of those working on the front line during COVID-19. We have so many people to thank for keeping daily operations running strong such as truck drivers, store clerks such as Walmart, Target, Sams Club, various grocery stores as well as Gas Station attendants. (If I missed someone please don't take offense as my mind is thinking about a thousand things right now) I could only pick one for now and wanted to make sure I completed this task before thinking about anything else.

I only have one kiln that is programmed allowing me to walk away and handle daily operations of our business that is still working at this time. I come home several times a day to change out trays as well as waking up throughout the late evening and early morning to change out trays and keep the hearts going. I don't get a lot of sleep right now but to me, this is completely worth it. (Perhaps this is a good time to invest in a second kiln that I was going to purchase later this year)

Thank you to everyone who is jumping in at some capacity to help others during this crazy time in our world right now. Just remember, we are all in this together and we will get through this. Take care of yourself and stay safe! 

To everyone on the front line working extremely hard each day to make sure the rest of us are safe, I applaud you! While I am grateful that things aren't as bad in our community as other states and communities I still appreciate you doing everything you can to ensure our safety daily. Don't ever think you aren't an essential person because you certainly are very essential to me!


If you are reading my blog and received one of these fused glass hearts made by me, please feel free to tag me, Midway Mercantile Co on Social Media using any of the following hashtags so I can see the small impact this has made. Anyone who knows me knows that if I could personally pass these out to each and every single one of you I would hug you tightly!

Facebook: Midway Mercantile Co
Instagram: midwaymercantileco

 Hashtags:

#WeApplaudYou
#ThankYou
#BelieveInBoone
#WorkingTogether
#StandWithSmall

Welcome to Midway Mercantile Co

April 3, 2020 ~ Since I am trying to stay focused and getting back to blogging while trying to keep everyone caught up I thought I would introduce you to Midway Mercantile Co! For those of you who have followed my blog over the years, you would know that I love adventures and thinking outside the box. I have dipped my toe into various art forms such as acrylic painting, watercolor, ceramics including throwing clay, and drawing. I've even tried my hand at sewing, and photography which I still dabble with from time to time.

Back Story Before Midway Mercantile Co

I am a high school graduate who didn't want to go to college. Let's be honest, I had no desire to be a doctor, lawyer or anything else that needed a college degree, however, I knew that whatever I wanted to do in life I would be able to accomplish it with my high school diploma and possibly trade school classes. (Moment of truth: If I could be anything in life and didn't have to worry about money I would be a professional volunteer.) In 2011 I had a wild idea to write a book. I had no clue how to go about this but I began researching to educate myself. I became a self-published author in 2013 when I wrote my first children's book titled, Tom T's Hat Rack. I remember being nervous yet proud because this wasn't easy dipping off into a world I didn't know anything about. It was also a world that people wouldn't offer advice on. In 2016 I wrote my second children's book titled, A Trip to Remember. Again, the same feelings of nervousness yet very proud of this book.

Are my books perfect? Nope!
Are they wrote the way I wanted them? Yep!
Am I proud of myself for sticking my neck out and trying something I haven't done before? You bet!

My books are (fiction) chapter books that are geared towards 7-12 year-olds. I really wanted to write a total of 4 books in the "Pay It Forward" series and both of my books use real people as main characters, which I love and slightly changing things to put them into my stories. After writing my second book about a World War II veteran things changed. It took me on an amazing adventure that I have no doubt a bigger being had a hand in.

Lt. Col. Ferrill A. Purdy was a World War II Marine Fighter Pilot who served two tours overseas. In 8 months we reunited him with his wingman, Major John H. Tashjian as well as finding a Corsair plane that they both flew during World War II in the Marshall and Gilbert Islands and reuniting both of them with a plane they flew when they were 22 and 23 years old. You guys, it was a whirlwind yet I am so incredibly proud of how this story unfolded.

It wasn't until Mr. Pudy passed away in 2018 that I lost my love of writing.  I had traveled all over the state of Missouri telling his story to 65+ schools over a 2 year period and would visit Mr. Purdy and his wife weekly. The Purdy's are like grandparents to me and nothing would replace him. I still call his wife weekly just to check in and try to visit his gravesite often.

I still talk to Mr. Tashjian and will be traveling to California to celebrate his 99th birthday in July!

Feel free to check me out at Michele Spry, Author

The Creation Of Midway Mercantile Co

My heart was broken and I needed to find something to keep my creative brain going. I was introduced to the world of glass and sugars, I found my happiness again! In late Summer or early Fall of 2018, I took a glass class with a friend, Cindy Mutrux. At the time she was at a great little shop in Rocheport, MO called Rocky Port Art Studio and Gallery. I wanted to support this new store and tried my hand at working with glass. Little did I know that I would soon fall in love with it! Over the next several months I would go back and continue creating as I tried to learn as much as I could so that I could create some really unique pieces. (I would tell my hubby that I would only be done a couple hours and when I came back home 4 hours later he would just shake his head. He knew me and playing with glass allows time to slip away) As life happens and things change the store would be closing and I had time to talk to Cindy about a lot of things related to glass. 

With her encouragement, I decided to purchase my own kiln. This was a huge step for me but I truly loved working with glass and wanted to do my own thing at our home. (Moment of truth: I was so worried I would screw this up that I didn't take my kiln out of the box for over a month!) While Cindy offers glass classes through Cindy Lou's Glass Studio I would not be offering any type of classes. I wanted to start my fused glass jewelry business and although we would be doing similar things (working with fused glass) we are still both very different in our businesses. In fact, we like to work together and throw ideas around as well as go to craft shows together. It's a lot of fun and I like to promote her whenever I can! Plus, I have someone I can trade glass with if I need something and that's a win-win!

I started Midway Mercantile Co on February 21, 2019 and y'all, it's been an amazing adventure! I would have never dreamed I would have so much support from so many friends and family. I am so lucky to have met some of the most incredible and talented people along the way! I have learned a ton since the day I first put glass in my own kiln and yet I have so much to learn as I move forward. I am constantly pushing myself to try new things and have yet to sit still to take some online classes but I have watched several YouTube videos that have helped me understand the terminology of glass. The glass community is very helpful and not afraid to help you succeed and for that, I am very thankful! Businesses that make glass and sell glass have tons of videos (free and paid) that help you become successful in working with glass.

I knew I wanted to sell my jewelry online but I didn't have a clue about where to start. I knew very little about Etsy but thank goodness Allison McCubbins, who is a very successful seller on Etsy (ABlaseDesigns) was patient enough to answer many of my questions to help me get started. Etsy doesn't have a "live person" to talk to and reading through tons of forums was brutal when you don't fully understand everything. I just tried to do something every day to learn it a little better and feel like I understand the platform a little better.  I am certainly not an expert but I'm trying to learn how to navigate Etsy.

All of my products come with FREE shipping in the US (lower 48) and once an item is purchased I will have it shipped out to you within 24-48 hours! 

If you have an Etsy account I would love it if you would "Favorite" my shop! 

Etsy Store for MidwayMercantileCo

Facebook: Midway Mercantile Co
Instagram: midwaymercantileco 

After a lot of thinking I really felt the need to get my product in some retail locations. I knew this meant that I would either pay rent, sell my product at wholesale or sell my product on a commission. At first, I really didn't want to do this but the more I thought about it the more it made sense. Having the opportunity for my products to be seen by those that came into retail locations just meant more customers of Midway Mercantile Co and the partnership (and friendship) you have with the store owners was something I truly cherish. You can find Midway Mercantile Co in the following locations:

*Obviously with COVID-19 it has changed how these locations do business and I would recommend following them on Facebook to keep up with specials/offers they have until everything goes back to normal operation. I know they would appreciate you following them!

Plume is an amazing little shop here in Columbia, MO. It is owned and operated by Kelly Gilion and home to over 70 local artists and vendors with a variety of items to choose from. If you are looking for a unique gift this is the place you want to visit! You can even take classes! She has amazing cupcakes and other bakery items available for purchase. If you stop by don't pay attention to the face print on the glass bakery counter... it's mine! Ha! 

Facebook:  Plume

Lillie Lavon is an awesome little shop in Ashland, MO. It is owned and operated by Tracy Eichorn. She gave up her corporate job to live her dream of owning her own business. Home to many wonderful local artists and vendors this is a bright spot in downtown Ashland. If you are looking for vintage, re-purposed and new unique items then you need to stop by and say hi! Tracy is always moving the store around so you will want to stop by often to see what she's been up to and what new items she has in the store! It's so welcoming and inviting that you will be glad you stopped by!

Facebook: Lillie Lavon

 The Boonville Store and Cafe is a great little cafe blended with a great selection of rental spaces filled with a variety of vendors. Not only can you take advantage of lunch or some Ice Cream Factory ice cream made in Eldon, MO but you can do a little shopping with several unique items to choose from! They are located right on Main Street in downtown Boonville, MO. Stop by and say hi!
Facebook: The Boonville Store and Cafe

  The Windy Nest is a fairly new store to downtown Boonville, MO and one you will want to check out! Owner, Cheri Schmitz is a gem! She and her husband moved back to Boonville, MO and not only opened her own little shop but also opened Windy Next Air BNB! She has a great selection of clothes, jewelry, kitchen, and household items as well as plenty of gift ideas! You will love her!
Facebook: The Windy Nest

Forever and Always Flowers is a beautiful flower shop in Eldon, MO owned by Chris Tamm. She wanted to bring gift ideas into her shop as something to pair with her flowers or for someone looking for something unique that wasn't flowers. She is doing an awesome job bringing in various artists and vendors that compliment her shop and I would encourage you to stop by and visit her if you are in the area. She would love to help you with your floral needs as well!
Facebook: Forever and Always Flowers


Last year I attended several craft shows and absolutely loved it! Having the ability to showcase your products and physically talk to customers about your process is an amazing feeling. There is something really fun about picking up the pieces and seeing how different they are while knowing they are made by me! Just meeting new people and seeing what others make is a lot of fun! So much talent and pride from so many vendors just makes you smile!

When thinking about my jewelry I really wanted to make them a one-of-a-kind item. It may have been slightly easier to create a handful of pieces and duplicate them however working with glass you can't always make items the same. I really looked at each piece of jewelry as it's own piece of wearable art so it seemed fitting to use a process that would help me ensure that each piece was unique and certainly one-of-a-kind!

Not only did I want to create a quality item but I wanted to use quality products as well. After some testing and tuning with different types of metal, I decided to use Sterling Silver for all my wearables. Originally I created fused glass pendants and found Sterling Silver bails to attach the glass to the bail. I found Sterling Silver necklaces that I thought were versatile enough to go with most outfits and slowly began to build my jewelry business. You guys, it was not easy! Trying to do enough research to find quality products at an affordable price was time-consuming. I ordered pieces in and many of them I found that they wouldn't hold up to my standards and sent them back. I have since added fused glass stud earrings which have Sterling Silver posts and most recently I am creating Sterling Silver rings with fused glass attached to them! (I am still trying to find a good option for bracelets)

Most importantly, I wanted to create my business at affordable prices. I have played around with prices on my items and I am finally getting comfortable with price points. I rather keep my items at lower price points so that people want to come back and purchase something else. I am certainly not looking to get rich from what I do but rather keep my happiness and creative ideas going! I would rather have someone purchase something and then come back several items than to have one customer purchase one time. For me, it's about having fun and trying new techniques!

In the past several months I have started making fused glass items for the home and office. I realize that not everyone wears jewelry or when giving a gift sometimes a non-jewelry item is easier. I want my customers to have many options to choose from and while I am still brainstorming on other ideas I have magnets, ring dishes/tea bag holders, 5" x 5" dishes and coasters. I have so many ideas that I want to try so that I can release other options in the near future but I need to take some time to focus on how to logistically make it all work. I see the need for another kiln in my future!

Thank you to everyone who has supported me no matter if you have simply cheered me on, shared my posts, purchased item(s) from me or visited my booth at craft shows. I can't tell you how much it has meant to me to have you in my corner. I will keep working hard to come up with new ideas and let you know where else you can find me! 

*With COVID-19 and the stay-at-home order as well as social distancing, all craft shows that I was going to participate in for the month of April and May are now canceled. We are all bummed but want to do our part to lower the curve and kick COVID-19 to the curb. As soon as craft shows are rescheduled or resume I will keep you posted on my social media sites. *

Donations:

During 2019 I had the pleasure of donating fused glass jewelry to many organizations throughout the mid-Missouri area. Anyone who knows me knows that I love giving back when I can. I can proudly say that Midway Mercantile Co donated $1,125.00 in product to help these organizations help others. As a small business owner, I want to help where I can to make a difference in the lives of others. While I can't donate to every organization I will do what I can each year.

I am excited to be a part of the Buy Missouri program here in the State of Missouri. 

The Office of Lieutenant Governor has created a national BUY MISSOURI economic development initiative to actively promote to other states and the world the products that are grown, manufactured, processed, and/or made in Missouri. 

Buy Missouri Website

I am now a General Member for The Best of Missouri Hands! My goal is to get serious and become a Juried Member of this Missouri Artisans Association! I'm not exactly sure what this will take but guess I better study up and get to creating!
Best of Missouri Hands Website 

Breaking Out!

March 26, 2020 ~ We are still trying to do what we can to be safe and keep safe distances from others. We are working as electric is an "essential job" at this point but I try to avoid stores if we can. You guys, this is hard. Mentally it just doesn't feel right and not being able to see my family and friends is really hard.

Brandon and I go to work every day and so we are around our employees which helps. To have conversations and just to physically see people is huge for me.  Our employees are rock stars and I know we don't give them enough credit but seriously they are doing what they can to keep the electrical needs of our customers moving forward.

It's tough. Changes are coming daily and we are all trying to navigate this serious situation. There are moments I want to cry and moments that I want to roll up my sleeves and figure out how to help. I just don't have all the answers and that drives me crazy. 

Y'all, I needed to see my Momma. Talking to her on the phone, when she answers it, isn't enough for me. We live 3 houses away from her and about 1 1/2 miles from my sister. Luckily, my sister, Ashley sends videos of the boys and gives you a sense of being able to see them. It's still hard because we are together each week and it's been nearly 2 1/2 weeks since I have seen Greg, Ashley, Jaxon, and Asher and it sucks. I couldn't take it anymore so I called Momma. 

{Phone Conversation} 

Me: Momma, what are you doing?

Momma: Nothing really. Why? What are you doing?

Me: Headed home. Wanna break quarantine?

Momma: Where you going?

Me: For a ride in the country on the Razor (RZR)

Momma: Hell yes I do! 

I told her I was just getting home and had picked up Chipotle for dinner and as soon as we got done eating I would text her. (Don't mind the cilantro in between my teeth in the photo! Ha!) Brandon and I were sitting on the back deck eating and here she comes on her golf cart! That's how Mom and Pops usually come over is by their golf cart! 

Momma sat in the back of the Razor and we didn't touch but damn it was good to put my eyes on her! I do take this stuff seriously but we were on the Razor the whole time and I didn't touch her in an effort to keep up with the social distance. It was a beautiful afternoon and the sunshine mixed with country roads and fresh air did the body good and for a little while, we didn't really think about COVID-19. Our little drive took us on a 25-mile trip! 

While it was starting to get cool on the ride home I can't help but love this view as we come home! 

A Little Humor Today!

March 19, 2020 ~ You guys, I know COVID-19 is serious. I have already told you that the unknown scares me the most. I do have faith that we will be OK but we will go through harder times before we get to better times. I am doing my part in "Social Distancing" myself but frankly, it's hard. It doesn't feel right. Sure we still have our cell phones, e-mails, text messages, FaceTime and social media but being told to stay away from others is extremely hard for someone like me,  who loves to be around people. I am trying to stay positive and support small businesses as much as I can.

In a time where businesses are slowly shutting down or drastically changing their hours it's crazy and just seems unreal. It makes my heart sad to see tough decisions that friends and business owners are having to make knowing they are trying everything they can to keep their employees employed. Just know we are in this together and just keep doing the best you can as this isn't your fault.
We will get through this!

I try to find happiness in these days. It makes me smile when so many friends are now working from home and trying to be good at homeschooling their child(ren) or now working with their husbands. You guys, I am laughing at many of your posts and realize how much there is to not only raising a child but also trying to teach them and an adjustment of working with a spouse when that's not a normal thing for you. While we don't have kids I feel for everyone as they adjust to a "new temporary normal".  Those of you that truly homeschool your child(ren) I praise you. I'm sure it's not easy but the time you get to spend with your child(ren) will be something I hope they always remember.

For example, the following have been shared many times by many of you and I totally laugh because I can see you writing this! 

I mean seriously! Hilarious! 

Oh my gosh y'all! 

Bahahaha! 

No judging here! 

This was pretty good too! 

I am certainly not making fun of anyone in a stressful time but rather smile because we are trying to find a little humor in life despite the craziness. I think we all have to take a deep breath and remember that the most important thing is to find a way to spend this time with your child(ren) and find happiness with them. Extra cuddles, being able to spend time with them that you might not if you were in a "normal" daily routine. Perhaps you might find that this new routine brings a little more happiness and slows down the time as they grow up so quickly.

I have several friends who are teachers. I admire what they do each and every day to help, encourage and inspire the students in their classrooms. I know that they are all super passionate about teaching and each of their students becomes a part of their own heart. I know teachers are underpaid and under-appreciated. They are with your child(ren) a large portion of a day for nearly 9 months out of the year. They are working long hours trying to find creative ways to help your child(ren) during this time and this is just as hard on them. They love your child(ren).  

My hope during this unknown time in our lives is that we each have a little more understanding, give a little more respect to those around us and genuinely appreciate every single human being. We are a team and we need to help where we can.  

You guys, just remember to be kind. I can't help but think that certain things happen for a reason. I would never wish something like this on anyone but maybe this is a gentle reminder that we all need to slow down and stop taking so many things for granted. I have said for years "I'm going to slow down" and I am pretty sure I'm just as busy as I have always been. I really think we all need to take this time and put things in perspective. Will we get quarantined at home? Probably. Is it going to be hard? For many, yes. Is this going to take a financial toll on all of us? Absolutely! Will we be better people for being forced to pump the breaks and enjoy the things we often take for granted? Yes! There are a lot of things we can't control but there are a lot of things we can control. Find happiness in each day and realize there are people who have no family. 

You guys, being "stuck" at home isn't so bad. (Remember those people stuck on a Cruise Ship?) Get outside, play games, put your phones down a little more, find time to have real conversations with your family, sit at the table for a meal together, make memories and take lots of pictures. I have no idea what will happen in the next few days, weeks or months but embrace it with a positive attitude. Maybe when all of this is over we might actually find that we don't have to be so busy all the time. As I get older it's more about the things money can't buy that is more important. 

I will still never fully understand the whole "Toilet Paper Hoarding" but here's a little something from me to you.... You are loved sugars! 

What's Normal?

March 16, 2020 ~ I find myself asking this question a lot... What's normal? Who defines normal? Is my normal the same as your normal? It's a question that varies from person to person and I don't know that there is a good answer for "What's Normal".  Perhaps normal is how we saw things growing up. Such as families sitting down at the table for a meal together and how that seems so few and far between now. Is it because both parents are working outside of the home and kids are so involved in various sports that you just don't have time to set down together let alone cook? Every family has a different answer and there isn't a wrong answer. We all have a different kind of normal and it's ok!

Unless you are living under a rock then everyone is talking about COVID-19 or as most of us know it, the Corona Virus. It's something that is everywhere we turn, its name is looking back at us. Social media, e-mails, store windows, television, radios and even friends and family texting or calling about it. It's literally everywhere. 

I'm going to be completely honest with you,  I am scared. I'm not scared of getting this virus or scared of dying but rather scared because of the unknown. I have said that I have had the opportunity to do a lot of awesome things in life and try to live my life to the fullest so that when my time comes to go meet the big man upstairs I am ok. (Now don't mistake me, I've got a lot of living left to do and don't want to go anywhere anytime soon) 

For me, it's not knowing what the future holds. Tomorrow, next week, next month or even the next 6 months. While I do think the news hasn't helped the situation my hope is that people will take this seriously. It may not "affect you", as so many keep saying, but in fact, it does. What if your lack of listening to the simple things costs someone you love their life? We have to keep the common sense, well, common! Washing our hands should be a several times a day routine. Like going to the bathroom and before leaving making sure to wash your hands. When you feel the need to cough, cover your mouth and the same goes with sneezing. Most importantly, if you are sick, running a fever or simply don't feel good then stay home! Work is important, yes, but it's not more important than your life or the life of your co-workers. 

For me and my family, I am trying to make sure that I have the basics, food in our freezer and canned items in the pantry. You guys, this is nothing different than our normal everyday life. I was low on meats in the freezer so I did go to the store to purchase that just so if we were stuck at home we would have options. I eat at home almost every single day for lunch and very seldom do we eat out at night. Weekends with friends are a treat but we are ok eating at home too. 

Anyone that really knows me would already know I am somewhat of a hoarder on laundry soap, laundry softener, shampoo/conditioner, soap, toilet paper, paper towels, toothpaste, deodorant, tampons, lotion and over the counter medicines. This is something I have always had a good supply of each on hand for nearly 15 years because I personally didn't want to go to the stores each month. I know, I hear you and saying "I can't afford to do that".  I totally get it and it wasn't something I ran out and spent hundreds of dollars "stocking up" but rather each time I would go I would buy an extra item and slowly built up my stash. I always look for sales, coupons and special buys... I hate paying full price for anything if I can find a sale. 

Today, Columbia Public Schools announced that our schools will be closed from March 18 - April 13, 2020. I understand why they are doing this but my heart goes out to the kiddos who really depends on school to be their safe place in this crazy world, their guaranteed meal when maybe there isn't a lot at home to eat and their friends who help them forget about things going on that make them sad or hurt. I want to help those kiddos and I don't know exactly how. Spring Break would have been 1 week out of school but now they will be away from this safe place for nearly a month. 

Senior citizens and those with compromised immune systems are another huge concern for me. Knowing they may or may not have the resources to allow them to get to the doctor, store or pharmacy safely. They may not have the money to afford the basic necessities in life and that breaks my heart. This literally could be life or death for them. 

You guys, I don't have answers. I am trying to figure out how to navigate all of this and where I can help. Right now, there are lots of people stepping up but in the coming days, weeks and months they will need help. I am trying to come up with a game plan while trying to help my own family. My mom has cancer and doesn't need to be around any of this. My sister and brother-in-law both work (they are small business owners as well as my sister working in the health care field) and have 2 kids. Jaxon will be out of school on March 18th and I would imagine it won't be long for Asher's daycare to close. They will do what they can to balance work and taking care of the boys over the next month. (She said that it's silly to send Asher to daycare if Jaxon is home so in an effort to keep them somewhat confined she will keep him home) They want to keep them away from both of their parents, the kid's grandparents, because they are all not in the best health. I know many of you are already figuring out the same thing while worrying about how long it will be until your workplace is closed. Now, imagine a single parent with little or no help. Gosh, my heart goes out to them too. 

For now, I know you can donate to several places within your local community. So many people are jumping up to help figure this out for those that need help and I couldn't be more proud of them. I have seen more human kindness in the couple days and that makes my heart happy.  My hope when this is all behind us is that you will see a different kind of world. A world filled with kindness, love and genuine respect for one another with everyone willing to help one another... the way it was when I was growing up.  

You guys, we are going to be ok. We are going to get through this and be stronger because of what we are about to go through. We have to remain positive in this situation. I think the only thing we can do at this point is to live day by day and give it the best we can. Reassure your kids it's going to be ok and help those in need where you can. Maybe it's sharing extra items you have, offering to take them to a doctor's appointment, picking up groceries or simply a phone call to check on them. Just remember to take care of yourself because if you don't you can't help others.  

A very special thank you to our military for protecting our country and our freedoms. I know it's not easy for you to be away from your loved ones and in areas where danger is around the corner. You are loved and appreciated!

A very special thank you to our doctors, nurses, firefighters, police, and staff that are doing everything they can to take care of those that need help. You are putting yourself at risk every single day to make sure your patients are taken care of. You are loved and appreciated!

A very special thank you to the store employees who are working hard to keep the shelves stocked, the truck drivers that are working hard to get supplies from across the country to various locations. You are also putting yourselves at risk every single day (driving state to state) and dealing with everyone daily. You are loved and appreciated!

A very special thank you to the janitors and cleaning crews that are working really hard to sanitize schools, buildings, malls, facilities and any other public space that we use. Your work doesn't go un-noticed. You are loved and appreciated!

Teachers and educators... while you have no idea what will happen from this point forward but willing to work longer hours to make sure your students stay up to speed while they are away from your classroom... you are a saint! I already feel you aren't paid enough but knowing you don't do this profession for the money you truly are an amazing human being. Thank you for loving the kids that come through your schools and your classrooms unconditionally and wanting to see them be the best version of themselves possible with you as their cheerleader. (Home school parents you have huge kudos too) You are loved and appreciated!

Small business owners, I am also one of those, you guys are an amazing bunch of dedicated people who push through the hardest times to live the American Dream. We work hard to create jobs for others and do everything we can to keep our customers happy. We know this isn't easy and yet we show up every single day ready to tackle the day ahead. Y'all are some incredible people and we are in this together. We have banded together to support one another in good times and bad. You are loved and appreciated!


You guys, if I missed anyone it wasn't on purpose. Please don't take offense. I am trying to wrap my mind around everything and so many thoughts run through my head. I just have to get these thoughts out of my mind so I can process and think with a little more clarity each day.

Hey Y'all It's Me Michele... I'm Back!

March 15, 2020 ~ Well, y'all it's been nearly 2 years since I have posted anything on my blog. 2 YEARS, you guys! How did time pass so quickly? How did I never come back to blogging? You guys, these are questions I ask myself constantly. While life certainly hasn't slowed down I find myself coming back to something I love which is writing and storytelling. My blog was a place I could do this and keep my thoughts in a journal so to speak.

The last 2 years have been full of adventure and changes. I'll try to highlight the top items that are on my mind as I hope that I will be more consistent in my writing. I will do my best to give enough information to bring you up to speed in future posts so they make the most sense. 

Brandon and I will be married 23 years in September! We started dating when we were 16 years old and somehow we just blinked and 28 years have flown by! (23 married plus 5 years of dating) We are having fun and while I still want to wring his neck I wouldn't change "us" for anything in the world! 

My last blog post was March 27, 2018 and was the Baby Adams Gender Reveal of my sister and brother-in-law. It was a boy and I still laugh at Ashley's reaction because she wanted a little girl so bad but my bother-in-law, Greg and my nephew, Jaxon's reaction was pretty good too! Obviously, our little family grew by one more little boy who arrived on September 19, 2018 and they named him Asher Gregory Adams. He's funny, loves his big brother and although he looks a lot like my sister except he has blonde hair! A perfect mix for our family! 

Asher is a mess! At 18-months old he certainly keeps us on our toes!
He reminds me of "Spanky" from The Little Rascals and a mix of Chris Farley!

Asher and Jaxon playing a game together earlier this year! 

My Momma still has cancer. She is doing great and her last doctor's appointment showed that her blood count was down to 11,000 from a high of 17,000! This is completely normal and her cancer doctor told her it will fluctuate from time to time but this was the first time it's gone down! I have a lot of people ask me how she's doing and for the most part, she is good. She just gets tired easier and not sure if that's from age, cancer or perhaps both. 

I have tried to take her with me on some travels to spend some quality time with her! I always love our time together and also love it when we get Brandon to go with us. We have made some good memories that I can't help but smile when I see pictures pop up on my social media! 

I started Midway Mercantile Co in February 2019! After taking several glass classes with Cindy Lou's Glass Studio I fell in love with this craft and decided to take a leap of faith and start my own business! It's been full of many emotions because while it's exciting it's also scary! I know I can do anything I set my mind to and I am not afraid of work, but the idea of doing something I have never done before like this terrified me! It's been an interesting journey and one I truly enjoy! I sell my items on Etsy as well as 4 retail locations in Missouri! I will talk more about this in a blog post just about Midway Mercantile Co so stay tuned! 

Pops turned 69 in February and Momma will turn 68 in April. They were both diagnosed with cancer when they retired and was an eye-opener for all of us. The biggest lesson is that you have to enjoy every single day with those you love so we have made a point to do things with them! Just recently we stopped by (they only live a few houses from us) and went for a RZR ride with them. Nothing fancy but quality time together for sure! (Of course, we try to make sure we get my sister, brother-in-law, and nephews together as often as we can!) Family is so important to me especially as we get older. I don't want to look back on life and wish we had done more. We are doing more now and taking pictures along the way! 

Our little diva cousin and her hubby had a baby too! Nixon Royal Secrist was born on December 26, 2018 and it's so much fun having the "babies" together! Since they are about 3 months apart it is always fun watching their little personalities come out! (There are 3 grand-daughters on the Crews side of our family. Myself then 5 years later came my sister, Ashley and 5 years later came our cousin, Stephanie. While we are cousins I feel like we are more like sisters and remain tightly connected which I love.) We all live here in Midway except Stephanie, Justin, and Nixon as they live in Kansas but come home fairly often. 

I think the biggest change over the past 2 years has been me. I am not the same person I was previously. Don't get me wrong, I am still fun, enjoy making others laugh and my OCD shows through the same but as I get older I am becoming more sensitive. Things bother me that I would have normally let roll off my shoulders. I am extremely sentimental. I have always kept things that have been from someone special to me but I find myself looking at photos reflecting on memories or looking at an item and figuring out how I can re-purpose into something I will use in our home. I bite my tongue a lot! I am not one that likes conflict but if I need to stand up for myself or someone very close to me then I will gladly say something. As I get older I find myself asking if it's worth it. Is it worth the energy to argue? Is it worth me getting worked up over something that I should just let go or walk away from it for my own peace? 

The majority of my life I have tried to make others happy and anyone in my very close circle would know I would do anything for them. I have found that over the years more people will take advantage of that and I have decided to protect my heart. I have been disappointed, taken advantage of, hurt and used. I have never put my own family first and yet they were always there when I needed them. It wasn't fair to them and I have made a point that will never happen again. 

Brandon is my first priority followed by my family and then my tight circle of close friends. I want to make a positive difference in this world and think you can accomplish so much when your priorities are in line. Every year I look at the things I am involved in and make sure those things align with my passions and if they don't then I simply step back and allow someone else to step in. I think the same holds true for people you are around (business life and personal life) that they make you feel important and loved. Remember actions speak louder than words! 

Life is all about learning and y'all... I'm still learning! I am not perfect and have many faults of my own but I am working on being the best version of me I can be.