Category: Crafts

Business Journey Journal | Q2 Recap & 2026 Progress Report

As of June 30, 2026

The second quarter of 2026 continued to prove that consistency matters. While not every platform experienced explosive growth, nearly every brand moved forward in some way—whether through increased views, stronger engagement, website improvements, or laying the foundation for future opportunities.

Rather than chasing overnight success, I focused on building sustainable growth across all of my brands. Here’s a look back at where things stand after the first six months of 2026.

Dear Dream Catcher Full Moon Series

🌙 Sheri’s Dream Catcher

Website: www.sherisdreamcatcher.com

Sheri’s Dream Catcher remains my primary blogging platform and continues to serve as the foundation for my storytelling and educational content.

Q2 Highlights

  • 11 email subscribers with a 66.67% open rate, remaining steady from Q1.
  • Published 13 new blogs in Q2, following 17 blogs in Q1, bringing the total to 30 blogs during the first half of 2026.
  • Reached 1,087 website views in Q2, contributing to approximately 2,500 total website views over the first six months of the year.
  • Continued integrating affiliate products and links throughout my blogs and social media platforms.

Social Media Growth

  • YouTube: 108 subscribers (up from 104)
  • YouTube Views: 50,432 (up from 36,126)
  • Facebook: 752 followers (up from 701)
  • Instagram: 344 followers (down slightly from 347)

One of the biggest accomplishments this quarter was reaching 24,300 social media views, a significant increase from 6,866 views during Q1.

Another exciting milestone was becoming eligible for Facebook Stars and Partnership Ads, opening new monetization opportunities that weren’t available in the first quarter.

Current Series

  • Dear Dream Catcher: Full Moon Letters

This series has become one of my favorite creative projects, combining reflection, storytelling, folklore, and personal growth.

Looking Ahead

My focus for the remainder of 2026 is continued consistency while working toward:

  • 1,000 Facebook followers
  • 500 Instagram followers
  • 500 YouTube subscribers
Sip-N-Think Struggling to Feel Alive

☕ Sip-N-Think

Sip-N-Think continues to grow into a channel centered around curiosity, learning, and conversation.

Q2 Highlights

  • YouTube Subscribers: 18 (up from 13)
  • YouTube Views: 10,758 (up from 8,653)

Content created during Q2 included:

  • 3 live Sip-N-Think episodes
  • 22 YouTube Shorts

Compared to Q1:

  • 3 long-form videos
  • 20 Shorts

Current topics include:

  • Positive Affirmations (Check out my collection on Amazon here)
  • Genealogy
  • Medical and wellness discussions
  • Educational facts
  • Curiosity-based learning

Although Sip-N-Think currently doesn’t have Facebook or Instagram accounts, YouTube continues to show steady growth.

The most popular product connected to the brand remains the Envision Dream Sip-N-Think mugs.

Goal

Reach 100 YouTube subscribers by the end of 2026.

Weekend Trip to San Francisco

❤️ Dating Sheri

Dating Sheri continues evolving into a lifestyle brand centered around travel, food, entertainment, and shared experiences.

Q2 Highlights

YouTube

  • 40 subscribers (up from 36)
  • 45,746 views (up from 40,824)

Facebook

  • 129 followers (up from 124)

Instagram

  • 187 followers (up from 164)

Content published during Q2 included:

  • 5 long-form videos
  • 11 YouTube Shorts

Current niche includes:

  • Food
  • Travel
  • Local events
  • Entertainment

Merchandise development continues under:

  • #DatingSheri
  • #DoubleDatingSheri

2026 Goals

  • 100 YouTube subscribers
  • 500 Facebook followers
  • 500 Instagram followers
Complicated Beauty with Sheri

💄 Complicated Beauty with Sheri

Complicated Beauty with Sheri remains in its rebuilding phase while continuing to grow its online presence.

Website: www.complicatedbeautywithsheri.com

Q2 Highlights

Facebook

  • 19 followers (up from 16)

Instagram

  • 166 followers (up from 136)

Although social media promotion has been limited, the website generated 2 online orders, an improvement from zero during Q1.

Additional accomplishments included:

  • Added candles to the online catalog
  • Added smudging sacks to the product line

Future niche opportunities include:

  • Beauty
  • Hair care
  • Jewelry
  • Product reviews
  • Photo shoots

Website performance:

  • 842 website visitors over the last 12 months
  • 27,282 total social media views over the last year
@sheripeno

#aprilshowersbringmayflowers

♬ original sound – Sheri Peno aka Wildflower 🌺
Envision Dream E-Commerce Site

🌟 Envision Dream, LLC

My e-commerce brand www.envision-dream.com continues to focus on growing both products and content while strengthening its online presence.

Q2 Highlights

Facebook

  • 721 followers (down slightly from 727)

Instagram

  • 340 followers (down slightly from 341)

Website

  • 2 online orders
  • 515 website views

Social Media

  • 6,005 social media views during Q2

Content created:

  • 2 product-focused blog articles

Goal

Increase both Facebook and Instagram communities to 1,000 followers while continuing to expand product awareness and website traffic.

@sheripeno

#bedtimechronicles

♬ original sound – L❤️VE 80s

Reflections After Six Months

Looking back at the first half of 2026, one lesson stands out:

Consistency creates momentum.

Not every platform grows at the same pace, and not every metric moves upward every quarter. However, consistent posting, blogging, experimenting with new content, and continuing to show up has resulted in increased exposure, stronger engagement, new monetization opportunities, and measurable progress across nearly every brand.

As I move into Q3, my priorities remain clear:

  • Continue publishing meaningful content.
  • Expand affiliate marketing opportunities.
  • Grow each community organically.
  • Increase website traffic.
  • Develop new products.
  • Work toward monetization goals across every platform.

Every blog, every video, every post, and every interaction is another step forward.

Here’s to continued growth throughout the rest of 2026.

📊 Q1 vs. Q2 2026 Business Snapshot

BrandQ1Q2Progress
Sheri’s Dream Catcher Blogs171330 blogs YTD
Sheri’s Dream Catcher Website Views1,4131,0872.5K views YTD
Sheri’s Dream Catcher YouTube Subscribers104108⬆️ +4
Sheri’s Dream Catcher YouTube Views36,12650,432⬆️ +14,306
Sheri’s Dream Catcher Facebook701752⬆️ +51
Sheri’s Dream Catcher Instagram347344⬇️ -3
Sheri’s Dream Catcher Social Views6,86624,300⬆️ +17,434
Sheri’s Dream Catcher MonetizationNot EligibleFacebook Stars & Partnership Ads✅
BrandQ1Q2Progress
Sip-N-Think YouTube Subscribers1318⬆️ +5
Sip-N-Think YouTube Views8,65310,758⬆️ +2,105
Live Videos33➖
YouTube Shorts2022⬆️ +2
BrandQ1Q2Progress
Dating Sheri YouTube Subscribers3640⬆️ +4
Dating Sheri YouTube Views40,82445,746⬆️ +4,922
Facebook Followers124129⬆️ +5
Instagram Followers164187⬆️ +23
Videos Uploaded—5✅
Shorts Uploaded—11✅
BrandQ1Q2Progress
Complicated Beauty Facebook1619⬆️ +3
Complicated Beauty Instagram136166⬆️ +30
Website Orders02⬆️
New Products Added—Candles & Smudging Sacks✅
BrandQ1Q2Progress
Envision Dream Facebook727721⬇️ -6
Envision Dream Instagram341340⬇️ -1
Website Orders12✅
Website Views417515✅
Social Media Views1576,005✅
Product Blogs Published—2✅
@sheripeno

#lol #cars

♬ You Might Think – The Cars

🎯 2026 Goals at a Glance

🌙 Sheri’s Dream Catcher

  • ✅ 500 YouTube Subscribers
  • ✅ 1,000 Facebook Followers
  • ✅ 500 Instagram Followers

☕ Sip-N-Think

  • ✅ 100 YouTube Subscribers

❤️ Dating Sheri

  • ✅ 100 YouTube Subscribers
  • ✅ 500 Facebook Followers
  • ✅ 500 Instagram Followers

💄 Complicated Beauty with Sheri

  • Continue growing website traffic
  • Expand product catalog
  • Increase social media promotion

🌟 Envision Dream, LLC

  • ✅ 1,000 Facebook Followers
  • ✅ 1,000 Instagram Followers
  • Increase website orders and product visibility
Full Q2 Recap Video

Looking Ahead to Q3

The first half of 2026 has been about building momentum. The second half will focus on scaling what is already working: creating valuable content, growing engaged communities, expanding affiliate marketing, introducing new products, and moving each brand closer to long-term monetization.

Progress isn’t measured by one viral post—it’s measured by showing up consistently. Every blog, video, reel, and conversation builds a stronger foundation for the future.

If you enjoyed reading Business Journey Journal | Q2 Recap & 2026 Progress Report subscribe to our e-mail list at Sheri’s Dream Catcher to stay updated with new blog posts

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps support this blog. Thanks for your support!

Opinion Disclaimer-This is a personal blog. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the owner and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company or individual

My New Ahopegarden Setup: A Simple Way to Grow Fresh Herbs & Vegetables at Home

I recently started using my new Ahopegarden system, and it has completely changed the way I think about indoor gardening. Whether you live in an apartment, have limited outdoor space, or simply want fresh herbs year-round, this hydroponic garden makes growing plants surprisingly easy.

What attracted me most was the clean design, beginner-friendly setup, and the ability to grow vegetables and herbs indoors without messy soil. According to the company, their hydroponic systems can grow plants up to 5X faster than traditional soil gardening. (Ahopegarden)

Why I Chose Ahopegarden

After researching several indoor garden systems, I decided to try Ahopegarden because of its compact size, built-in LED grow lights, and simple water circulation system. Many users also mention how convenient the setup is for beginners and small homes.

The system includes:

  • LED grow lights
  • Water circulation pump
  • Seed pods and grow baskets
  • Plant nutrients
  • Adjustable light height

The only thing you really need to add is your favorite seeds. (Ahopegarden)

My 12 Pods Intelligent Planter

My First Week Experience

Setting everything up took less than 20 minutes. I planted basil, peppers, dill, carrots and cucumbers. Within days, I started seeing tiny sprouts appear.

One thing I really love is how quiet the system is. The circulating water pump runs smoothly in the background, and the LED lighting gives my home a modern look.

Another big advantage is cleanliness. Since there’s no soil involved, there’s less mess, fewer pests, and almost no maintenance compared to traditional gardening.

Best Ahopegarden Products to Consider

If you’re thinking about starting your own indoor garden, here are some excellent options depending on your space and goals.

Best Overall for Beginners

This model is perfect if you want to grow herbs, leafy greens, strawberries, or small vegetables indoors year-round.

Great Compact Option for Kitchens

This option works especially well for apartments and smaller countertops.

Helpful Garden Additions

If you want to expand your gardening setup, these products pair nicely with indoor growing systems.

FeaturePanacea Oval Corrugated Steel Raised BedOutsunny Hoop House GreenhouseOne Stop Gardens Greenhouse
Best UseOutdoor vegetablesSeasonal greenhouse growingCompact backyard greenhouse
Space NeededMediumLargeSmall
Weather ProtectionModerateHighHigh
Beginner FriendlyYesYesYes
Budget LevelAffordableMid-rangeBudget-friendly

Things I’ve Learned So Far

A few beginner tips that helped me:

  • Use quality seeds for better germination
  • Keep herbs trimmed to encourage more growth
  • Don’t overcrowd pods with large plants

I also found that hydroponic gardening is a great way to introduce kids and beginners to growing food at home.

@sheripeno

#gardening #peppers #carrots #dill #cucumber

♬ original sound – Vicki Lee

Final Thoughts

So far, my experience with Ahopegarden has been incredibly positive. It’s convenient, beginner-friendly, and genuinely fun to watch plants grow indoors every day.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a small indoor garden, this is one of the easiest ways to begin. Fresh basil, lettuce, mint, and even tomatoes right from your kitchen feels surprisingly rewarding.

If you want to check out the same Ahopegarden system and some of the accessories I’m using, you can browse them here:

👉 Click here to view my recommended indoor gardening products on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps support this blog. Thanks for your support!

If you enjoyed reading My New Ahopegarden Setup: A Simple Way to Grow Fresh Herbs & Vegetables at Home subscribe to our e-mail list at Sheri’s Dream Catcher to stay updated with new blog posts

Opinion Disclaimer-This is a personal blog. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the owner and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company or individual

Quick DIY Project: Upgrade Your Light Switch Covers with French Cabriole Style

Upgrading your home doesn’t always require a full renovation—sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest impact. One often-overlooked element in interior design is something you interact with every day: your light switch and outlet covers. If you’re looking to elevate your space with a touch of timeless elegance, the French Cabriole Decorative Wall Plate Switch Plate Outlet Cover is a simple yet striking upgrade worth considering.

@sheripeno

#diyproject #outlet #decor

♬ original sound – Sheri Peno aka Wildflower 🌺
Wall Plate Switch Plate Outlet Cover 

Why Small Details Matter in Home Design

When designing or refreshing a room, we tend to focus on furniture, paint colors, and lighting. But cohesive design is really about consistency—and that includes the finer details. Standard plastic switch plates can interrupt an otherwise polished aesthetic. Swapping them out for decorative covers instantly enhances the overall look of your space without a major investment.

The Charm of French Cabriole Design

Inspired by classic European décor, the French Cabriole style is known for its graceful curves and ornate detailing. This decorative wall plate embodies that aesthetic, adding a subtle sophistication to any room. Whether your home leans toward vintage, shabby chic, Parisian, or even modern farmhouse, this piece blends beautifully while adding character.

Key Benefits

  • Elegant Aesthetic: The intricate design transforms a basic utility into a decorative feature.
  • Durable Construction: Built to last, offering both style and functionality.
  • Easy Installation: No special tools or expertise required—just a quick swap with your existing plate.
  • Versatile Use: Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, or even bathrooms.

Where It Works Best

This decorative switch plate is especially effective in spaces where attention to detail matters. Consider using it in:

  • Entryways to create a memorable first impression
  • Bedrooms for a cozy, refined touch
  • Dining areas to complement a sophisticated setting
French Cabriole Decorative Wall Plate Switch Plate Outlet Cover 

A Simple Upgrade with Big Impact

Home improvement doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Something as small as upgrading your outlet covers can tie a room together and reflect your personal style. The French Cabriole Decorative Wall Plate is a perfect example of how thoughtful details can elevate your home effortlessly.

Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home, you can check out the product here: https://amzn.to/4vMP5wJ

By focusing on the little things, you can create a home that feels curated, stylish, and uniquely yours—one detail at a time.

Quick Light Switch Cover Upgrade

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps support this blog. Thanks for your support!

If you enjoyed reading Quick DIY Project: Upgrade Your Light Switch Covers with French Cabriole Style subscribe to our e-mail list at Sheri’s Dream Catcher to stay updated with new blog posts

Opinion Disclaimer-This is a personal blog. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the owner and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company or individual

Hand Poured Sun & Crescent Moon Candles: Perfect for Any Full Moon Ritual

The full moon is a time of reflection, release, and renewal—and lighting a candle is one of the simplest ways to honor its energy. Our hand poured sun and crescent moon candles, made from 100% coconut wax, are thoughtfully designed to complement full moon rituals, meditation, and intentional living.

Why Candles Matter During the Full Moon

For centuries, candles have been used during lunar phases to set intentions and create sacred space. The full moon represents completion, clarity, and balance. Lighting a candle during this time helps you slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.

Our crescent moon candle is especially meaningful during full moon moments, symbolizing cycles, intuition, and calm. Paired with the sun candle, it creates a beautiful balance of light and energy—perfect for honoring both release and renewal.

✨ Handcrafted with love ✨
Our Sun & Crescent Moon Candles come wrapped in a reusable cloth bag, making them perfect for gifting—or keeping your space glowing with celestial charm. 🌞🌙
#HandmadeCandles #CoconutWax #CelestialDecor #FullMoonVibes #GiftIdeas

Hand Poured 100% Coconut Wax for a Clean Burn

Each candle is hand poured in small batches using 100% natural coconut wax, making it a cleaner, longer-lasting option compared to paraffin candles. Coconut wax burns evenly and gently, making it ideal for meditation, journaling, or quiet full moon rituals.

Because they are handmade, every candle is unique—just like every full moon experience.

🛒 100 % Coconut Wax Available on Amazon for easy ordering and delivery
Click here to purchase the American Soy Organics Freedom Coconut Soy Wax Beads

Aesthetic Meets Intention

Our sun and crescent moon candles are not only functional but also beautifully decorative. Whether placed on an altar, nightstand, or coffee table, they bring a celestial, calming presence to any space.

Perfect for:

  • Full moon rituals and ceremonies
  • Meditation and manifestation practices
  • Self-care nights
  • Spiritual or celestial home décor

How to Purchase on Facebook Marketplace

👉 Message me here on Facebook to purchase your sun and crescent moon candles
Limited quantities available — first come, first served!

Shopping with us is easy and convenient through Facebook Marketplace.

All candles are handmade in small batches, so quantities may be limited. Messaging early helps secure your candle—especially around the full moon when demand is highest.

A Thoughtful Gift for Moon Lovers

These candles make meaningful gifts for anyone who loves astrology, moon cycles, or intentional living. Perfect for birthdays, housewarmings, full moon gatherings, or simply as a reminder to slow down and glow.

Light With Intention

Whether you burn them during a full moon or display them as celestial décor, our hand poured sun and crescent moon candles are designed to bring warmth, balance, and beauty into your life—any phase of the moon.

@sheripeno

#beautiful #peacefull #fullmoonenergy

♬ Good Morning, My Soul – Whiskey Blues Society

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps support this blog. Thanks for your support!

If you enjoyed reading Hand Poured Sun & Crescent Moon Candles: Perfect for Any Full Moon Ritual subscribe to our e-mail list at Sheri’s Dream Catcher to stay updated with new blog posts

Opinion Disclaimer-This is a personal blog. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the owner and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company or individual

From Junk to Flame: Scrappy Candle-Making Experiments

Turn your household scraps into something magical. This DIY guide walks you through creative candle-making using leftover wax, jars, crayons, and more. Sustainable, experimental, and fun!

🔥 From Junk to Flame: Scrappy Candle-Making Experiments

Let’s face it — we all have a drawer, a cupboard, or a random box filled with stuff: half-used candles, chipped mugs, empty jars, crayon stubs, and other forgotten bits and bobs. What if I told you these scraps are the perfect ingredients for your next cozy creation?

Welcome to From Junk to Flame, where we turn overlooked household leftovers into beautiful, functional DIY candles. No fancy equipment, no waste — just curiosity, a little fire, and some creative combustion.

🧪 The Experiment Begins

The fun part of scrappy candle-making is treating it like a low-stakes science experiment. You don’t need a blueprint — just a curious mind and some fire safety common sense. Here’s what I started with:

  • 🕯️ Old candle stubs and wax remnants
  • 🖍️ Broken crayons (great for color!)
  • ☕ Mismatched teacups and chipped mugs
  • 🧵 Cotton string (as emergency wicks)
  • 🥄 A double boiler (or a makeshift one using a pot + bowl)

Goal: Make something that burns and looks cool doing it.

🔧 Tools & Setup (a.k.a. Your DIY Candle Lab)

Before you begin, assemble your “lab”:

  • A heat-safe pouring container
  • A stir stick (chopsticks work great)
  • Tongs or oven mitts
  • A mold (use anything heatproof — jars, tins, shells!)

You don’t need a candle thermometer unless you’re getting serious. For scrappy projects, intuition and observation work just fine.

🔥 Melting It Down

Start by melting your wax scraps (and crayons if using) slowly over a double boiler. You’ll want to stir gently and watch for layering — sometimes waxes with different melting points separate in interesting ways.

Pro tip: Add a few drops of essential oil if your old wax has lost its scent. Or lean into the mystery scent — that’s part of the fun.

🪢 DIY Wick Hack

If you don’t have wicks on hand, make your own:

  • Soak cotton string in melted wax
  • Let it dry straight on a sheet of foil
  • Use a wick tab or a washer to hold it in place at the bottom of your mold

Secure it upright using a pencil or stick across the top of your container.

🌈 The Fun Part: Pour + Play

Here’s where you can get creative:

  • Layer different colors and textures
  • Add dried herbs or flower petals (optional, but aesthetic)
  • Repurpose surprising containers — seashells, vintage glass, even citrus peels

Let your creation cool for several hours (or overnight if you’re patient).

🧠 Lessons from the Flame

Not every experiment will burn perfectly. Sometimes your wick is off-center, or the wax tunnels weirdly, or the crayon color melts into sludge. That’s okay. This isn’t perfection — it’s resourceful creation.

What matters is that you took something headed for the trash and turned it into warmth, light, and maybe even a new hobby.

♻️ Why Scrappy Candles Matter

Candle-making with scraps isn’t just fun — it’s a small act of sustainability. You’re saving materials from landfills, reducing plastic-packaged candle purchases, and learning to work with what you have.

It’s eco-friendly. It’s budget-friendly. It’s flame-friendly. Win-win-win.

Eco-friendly fire starters made from reused coffee grounds, dried lavender, and cloves for natural home fragrance and sustainable fire lighting
Homemade Scented Sparks! Eco-Friendly fire starters

🔮 Final Thought: Your Turn

So what’s hiding in your junk drawer or donation box that could become your next favorite candle?

Share your scrappy candle experiments with me — tag them with #FromJunkToFlame and let’s keep the light burning.

If you enjoyed reading From Junk to Flame: Scrappy Candle-Making Experiments subscribe to our e-mail list at Sheri’s Dream Catcher to stay updated with new blog posts

Opinion Disclaimer-This is a personal blog. Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal and belong solely to the owner and do not represent those of people, institutions or organizations that the owner may or may not be associated with in professional or personal capacity, unless explicitly stated. Any views or opinions are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company or individual