designs by Linda R

merry christmas

2011-12-17T13:19:00.000-06:00

photo credit: http://typetypetypeshop.com/2009_10_01_archive.html

2011-11-22T18:16:00.001-06:00

inhale.....exhale....repeat...

2011-10-21T10:52:00.000-05:00

Stepped out my front door very early morning...

oops...need camera!

This doesn't compare to the real thing...

but you get the idea...

Standing in my bathrobe ...

taking the silence

in for a few moments...

Miss Juliet looking up at me confused...

just a few more moments.......

I need this today....

Back to the front porch...

o.k. o.k......

time to go back in...

Enjoying a cup of tea now...

What's your plan for today?

Wherever you are GOing...

Take a few moments to just BE.

It feels reallllly good.

2011 going ...going...

2011-10-08T17:47:00.001-05:00

So how have you been? What have you been up to?

Maybe it's just me, but the older I get (and this is happening faster than I thought possible) the more amazed I am at how fast the years flip by.

At the beginning of the year I started a list - you know - so maybe I could do a letter at the end of the year, like a recap looking back. And you know what has happened? I ended up with 1 or 2 things on the list - WHY ?? Because I was only writing down what I thought was the BIG stuff.

Now that the end of the year approaches I realize that it's all the little things, each day that make up MY LIFE. I need to take more photos and document the grins, giggles and things I overcome each day. All those moments, especially the ones spent with those I love being with and around.

Each day I open my eyes is a gift.

I am so blessed to have a job.

I have some WONDERFUL friends.

I'm working on something reallllly BIG for 2012.

It's a wonderful life ;-)

I dare you - not to be amazed

2011-08-29T11:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of spending all evening with a very special friend - we ate, laughed, shared updates and dreamed a bit too. One of the things she told me about was this young girl. A girl named Rhema.

take a moment

Inspiration

2011-08-17T20:48:00.003-05:00

Inspiration, a photo by karenmeyere on Flickr.

Maybe you're like me, and some days you need outside stimulation for inspiration. I turn to blogs - my favorite place to find what I need..... and some even have awesome giveaways to celebrate milestones (you'll see what I mean later).

Some days it's a new recipe. Next week it might be a new color combination. I would love for you to share what your favorite blogs are whether you turn to them for gardening ideas, painting old furniture or decorating ideas or whatever ;-)

If you are new to blogs - all you need to do is begin with one - many of them have their favorite blogs listed in the side column on their blog. You can click on one and check their list, and so on and so on....or you can come back to the original list and try another one.

It's addicting !! I warned you - but so delicious. Just in case you are new to the idea - I'll list a few of my new finds for you.
Words of Me Project - super cool giveaway
Twice Lovely
The Pioneer Woman
Fly Lady
A Holy Experience
Simply Recipes

Hope I added a slice of Bliss to your day...

luck = preparation + opportunity

2011-08-01T15:55:00.002-05:00

Girls just wanna have fun, right????????

I say you can never take too many classes, or have too much fun. There is so much goodness that goes on at The Creative Connection - it makes my heart go pitter patter. And I want to be there - I do.

3 DAYS OF CREATING !!

It's all happening in Minnesota September 15-17th which is my favorite time of year. There are workshops, and tons of inspiration from amazing women like Stacy Jullian, Holly Becker, Cristina Ferrare and more...you can check it out

HERE.

So, why would I want to win this awesome trip you ask? Well, my friend and I have a dream. It's about business, creating, and sharing what we've learned along the way. It's about blogging, writing, being enough, inspiring others and we think Creative Connection is what we need to take us to the next level. We're dreaming of workshops, shopping at the marketplace, hearing keynote speakers and artists and being exposed to all types of art - handmade!!

My fingers and toes are crossed.

I'm waving to the fickle finger of fate.

I am quietly roaring "pick me"...

just sayin'

2011-07-30T22:59:00.003-05:00

Leap, a photo by Wyrd on Flickr.

One of my most favorite places is Brave Girls Club ! They have a feature called "Daily Truths" that come to you in the form of an email that say "a little bird told me"........ cute huh?

They are wonderful pearls of wisdom, whispers really....speaking to the very core of YOU. The team at Brave Girls has asked us to select our favorite Daily Truth to be entered in a big giveaway, which is such a difficult task! Want to know what mine is? o.k. o.k. Check here.

If you think about it, we all have dreams (big and small), things we would like to do, places to see and ideas waiting to fully bloom. I thought about mine, and realized there is NOTHING stopping me...all I have to do is take one baby step toward what I want...then one more and eventually I will succeed. FEAR? sure but not so much if I don't think about going from 0-100 all at once - but if I just keep moving forward I'll get there.

Maybe for you it's about stopping a bad habit, or beginning to get a grip on that clutter you've collected, or maybe beginning or finishing a college degree. One of my biggest goals in my 40's was to earn a degree and when I was sharing that dream (yet again) with someone - he said why don't you do it? I said ...well it'll take 6 years while working full time and you know how old I'll be? He said....so how old will you be if you DON'T do it? duh....(bfo as my good friend would say - blinding flash of the obvious). So I did it - one class at a time.

My little birdie speaks of the longing deep inside and I don't know about you but I know what she speaks of, and it's time!!!! I'm holding myself back and it's time to leap and let the net appear....take that first baby step...claim the life I'm meant to live - FULLY - OUT LOUD....and I think I'll do just that !!!!!!!!! Yep, I'm scared....but I'm at the place where NOT doing it is more painful ...here I come.... quietly roaring.

How about you? Go ahead, sign up for Daily Truths here, and see what stirs in YOUR soul and step out there.

Wanna know a secret ???

2011-07-09T17:51:00.006-05:00

I HAVE NEGLECTED MY BLOG !!!

I'd like to tell you it is because I was without any form of communication on a

TROPICAL ISLAND painting a masterpiece -

but that would be a lie ! I was simply not paying attention when several weeks slipped right past me.

Connie over at Dirty Little Footprints Studio got my attention today and has convinced her readers to expose one of our art journaling secrets in exchange for a chance to win a great prize in her giveaway here. You can enter too by the way...

My secret is that I don't art journal as much as I would love to because I feel like I'm wasting product! After all no one will see it except me - right? I love that an art journal is my place to experiment with new product, mediums and techniques and that part of the freedom to explore is that no one will see it but me. But .....I have to admit that I pass over my favorite papers or special trinkets and use something else.

Any secrets you wish to share? If not - I'd love it if you left a comment saying what was special about your weekend ? Thanks for stopping by ;-)

isn't she the cutest thing ?

2011-06-12T16:05:00.000-05:00

It's a Wonderful Life

sunny ...
cool breeze...
perfectly beautiful day...

steaks on the grill...
Miss Juliet loves a visit with uncle mike...

Now for a movie and dessert...

oops, kids sleeping ;-)
maybe later......

Sometimes I have to just slow down, stop and just enjoy the day. The days roll by so quickly.....it was nice to sit and watch the birds while we talked, play with Miss Juliet and laugh a lot.

I hope you do what makes you smile today - leave the week behind and worry about Monday tomorrow. For now, just enjoy.................. wishing you bliss.

are we having fun yet ?????????????????

2011-05-28T08:21:00.002-05:00

Memorial Day is the first really big summer celebration.

What do you have planned and how are you spending this weekend? Most of us are either watching a parade, going to a picnic, spending a day at the beach, or perhaps you are traveling to see loved ones to spend time together. For me it's cooking on the grill with family - I swear I think you could cook shoe leather on the grill and it would be tasty !!!

The tradition of communities celebrating began with Civil War soldiers coming home, and in 1882 the Day was officially labeled MEMORIAL DAY. It was in 1971 that the President declared that veterans from other wars would be included as well. So we celebrate, as is our tradition all the men and women who served and most important - we remember.

Whether your celebration today is BIG or small, inside or out, at home or away, on land or water.....ENJOY!

if you are a woman - watch this - even if you're not a mom.

2011-05-08T18:31:00.000-05:00

This was posted today by Kelly Rae Roberts, you may recognize her name from my sidebar. I learned a lot by taking her "Flying Lessons" e-course and the one thing she shares over and over is that what you do matters. She reminds me again today ;-) Enjoy.

2011-05-06T20:55:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day .....ah yes

A day when all the memories come flooding back. I realized today that most of them are just simple ordinary moments that seemed nothing special at the time.

I am blessed to have 52 years of memories, moments that were filled with friendship, support and unconditional love.

I would have loved 52 more, it's never enough. There is nothing on earth like a mother's love - it's heart to heart.

I think about what I miss the most, and it's those little moments

             ...the sound of her saying my name
             ...our hugs with a squeeze
             ...picking up the phone to tell her the latest
             ...making each other laugh

It is my wish that if you are spending the day with your Mother that you be present in every moment, notice the sound of her laugh, the curve of that smile, feel her hug and hug her back.

My mother once gave me a card that said "To my daughter the princess -
from your Mother THE QUEEN" and we both loved that card and laughed about it often. Now she is an Angel, and I get a glimpse of her wings every now and again....as I catch her still watching over me (smile).

As the stone was rolled away....

2011-04-24T13:48:00.002-05:00

a photo by wvgasguy on Flickr.

HAPPY EASTER !!
egg hunts
celebration
Christianity
colored eggs
CHOCOLATE BUNNIES
the stone is rolled away
Easter bonnets
Baskets & Bows
Christ Has Risen !!!

1440 minutes....

2011-03-26T12:25:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's how many minutes we all have in a day, that's how many we've had every day.

I sat making my To-Do list (again)...

Does anyone else feel like they have to get it all in?

Hurry up, go faster, get it all done....

I came upon a video today that readjusted my perspective - thought I'd share it with you.

Minutes....Moments, so true - it's all we have and they move very fast.
I'm going to make an effort to slow it all down, savor each moment and I just might start to journal my own list and see if I can make it to 1,000.... and I think her book will be on my wish list too.

704 left today...hope you make some beautiful memories and enjoy moment after glorious moment.

do you like surprises???

2011-03-12T12:32:00.002-06:00

A Bubble for Me? a photo by lunahzon on Flickr.

If you are like me, you answered "it depends".

Yesterday my UPS man delivered a box to me...not highly unusual because I'm always ordering something online, right?

But not recently though, hmmmmmm. Maybe it's a mistake and meant for another address. No... it has my name on it. CURIOUS?? I was too!

I opened the box to find a card from a friend and these luscious treats! Let me tell you they are as good as they look! Strawberries + chocolate = YUM.

In all the people we come in contact with over years and years of our complicated lives, I still marvel at the wonderful friends we make - those that stand out and above - who love us in spite of our "uniqueness" - who seem to know just when we need a hand, or a shoulder to lean on - they send special packages wrapped in love - they make us laugh til we cry - they teach us lessons - and allow us to love them back making us both better for having been friends.

I am so blessed to have this person in my life - and no surprise, her name? why...it's "Joy" of course. Thank you my dear friend, you never cease to AMAZE me in so many wonderful ways.

Hug a friend today, surprise her, make her laugh - it makes you both feel good.

2011-03-04T17:30:00.003-06:00

Be Different.. a photo by S o l i l o q u y on Flickr.

I watched this video today and started thinking about being "different". Kind of confusing don't you think? Seems like everyone wants to be liked, fit in, seem "normal".... be the same as everyone else, dress alike, drink the same thing, root for the same team, drive a certain car, wear a certain brand...and above all just go along with the norm.

But then you also hear that you should be yourself, live out loud,
be who you are, be authentic, be creative, and dream of being special.

The older I get the less I thought I worried about what everyone else thought, after all we are all unique right? And I thought just because I like my caffeine cold instead of hot, or because I prefer cold weather to warm, or that I like calm and quiet more than loud and edgy ...it wouldn't bother anyone. I didn't mean you have to like what I like --- it's o.k. with me.

But this video got me to thinking about it again, and it really is funny to me now - we are each DIFFERENT - each one - every one. Like snowflakes, we are each special, beautiful, unique and can bloom blue and be happy about it while appreciating all the colors shapes and beauty around us. So if you sport a flower in your hat, wear purple, and march to your own drummer CALL me and we'll do lunch!

love ...love...love...

2011-01-30T12:38:00.003-06:00

Heart Bokeh Originally uploaded by jonghank

The time approaches that has our attention focused on LOVE... hearts, candy and flowers everywhere. For our sweethearts, or Mothers for sure but I remember a time we gave that love to everyone.

Remember when you had a little bag of Valentine cards you took to school with each child's name on them as well as your own? I remember I gave one to each child in my class, the teacher and anyone else I could think of and I felt as warm & fuzzy as the person receiving the card.

This Valentine's Day be generous with your love - give everyone a smile, let that car in a hurry go first, or maybe someone in a check out line has less items than you do so you let them go first. No one has an easy ride on this journey even though it may appear as though some do - we all have our own load to bear and usually it's not obvious or visible.

So give a smile to a stranger who may have just been diagnosed with cancer, or the person in line who may be going through a painful divorce or loss. Be kind to the person cutting you off in traffic, perhaps they are responding to a family emergency. After all ...love is free and you have plenty ;-)

We are not all alike, we don't all like the same things and don't react or respond alike and that's O.K. We are free to stand in who we are even if it differs with another's opinion or view. It doesn't take away or cost you anything to allow my individuality or alternative response. So recently in a conversation when I stated my opinion and someone said "What's wrong with you, why are you like that" I responded instead of reacting by simply saying that by my having a difference of opinion didn't make either of us right or wrong, just different. We are all still worthy of love.

So let's give out lots of smiles, happy blog comments, thank yous, and random acts of kindness to all these unsuspecting love targets. I dare you .....

and the award goes to......................

2011-01-15T18:41:00.000-06:00

Well, I must say I'm quite honored to receive this Stylish Blogger Award today from the very gifted and generous Lainey Parker. Visit her blog when you get the chance to meet her VERY cute dog Mollie, get some organizational ideas, or just enjoy her take on life and don't forget to leave a comment - we all LOVE comments. Thanks for the award Lainey, it brought sunshine to my day! Accepting the award that I was so graciously given invites me to share 7 things about me ya'll didn't know (hmmmmm) and introduce you to the Blogs that I am passing the Stylish Blogger Award to and hopefully they are willing to receive it.

So let's have some fun!!!

1. As a child I was so thin and scrawny that my mother gave me liquid vitamins prescribed by our Dr.

I even remember the bottle being in the refrigerator and was called something like Homacebrin. Let's just say it worked WAY too well (anyone know how to make it stop other than Weight Watchers?).

2. We had a dog named "Tramp" (yes after the movie Lady and the Tramp) who crawled under the bed and being the genius I thought I was - I quickly shoved my brother's toy rifle under the bed to get him to come out but it snipped off the end of his tail - eek. He was fine after a stitch or two at the vet, I can't describe the "art" he left all over whipping and wagging that bleeding tail.

3. I'm afraid of heights - like more than one step on a ladder no can do. Can't do bleachers or open stairs.

4. I twirled baton in the marching band in Junior High School.

5. Elvis was my boyfriend all during childhood.

6. In my senior year I placed in the top 3 for fastest adding machine in the State of Indiana (200 digits a minute).

7. I was a hairdresser for 8 years and have been blond, redhead, frosted, had razored lines and purple streaks - you name it!

Most of my blogging world consists of people who are very talented artists with very big hearts and lessons to teach me since I'm still "becoming" me in most every way. I hope you enjoy the wonderful "peeks" into their lives and come away as inspired as I have been. Maybe you'll be inspired to doodle or buy 2 bottles of craft paint, a brush and just let your worries spill onto the paper. Many have Etsy shops or sell their work, please remember them when you need a very special gift (including for yourself).

Kind Over Matter is a Blog that in my humble opinion gives us the pick-me-up we need in our lives. Make sure you visit their "freebies" they are printable and fun.

Andy Mathis is someone you should know, especially if you love animals as much as I do. He shares his tales about tails and his incredible art on his Blog.

Patty Digh artfully reminds me how important each day, each hour and each breath is and her book "Life is a Verb" is on my nightstand.

Jennifer is very special and combines her love of art to her incredible faith.

Elizabeth brightens your day. The colors in her work are a reflection of the bliss she holds inside.

Liv Lane is a burst of fresh air who finds beauty in everything and you will too. She is one big smile.

Pam Holderman is so inspiring. Her art is beautiful, her pets are a riot, and her stories will make you feel that you've known her for years.

Jacqueline just oozes with love and best wishes for every person she meets. Her wares will make you want to buy a gift for everyone you know.

Valerie Hart is someone who creates beauty with every project and you feel like you have been her best friend all your life - you're gonna love her.

Jenny Lee Wentworth sketches her life out and makes beautiful sense of each day.

Baxter's Mom is a lighthearted artsy fun blog and even tho she is a grammy, Baxter is a dog (you know I love that!)

Michele Dawn Daigle expresses herself beautifully on her Blog - check it out.

Carola Bartz helps us discover what life looks like after coming from Germany to the U.S.

Tejae's life is about love and heart, her work spreads love everywhere.

Well, I hope you enjoy the blogs of my friends, and I know there are so many of you that I couldn't fit them all here (but you know who you are) so I'll have to get my next list ready - this was really fun! hugs and more hugs. Enjoy your weekend.

i wish someone would have told me...

2011-01-11T09:19:00.002-06:00

Originally uploaded by tobkatrina

Have you ever wondered.... "if I knew then what I know now" - would I have done anything differently?
Roots of She (a favorite website) is asking us to be the big sister and share what we have learned with the hope that it is of benefit to women 10 years younger than ourselves. Cool idea, huh? This project will continue in the weeks ahead and I'm excited to share from my own perspective as well as reading what advice others are sharing so that I can use in my own life.
I am inviting you to participate as well, and would love it if you left a comment at the end of this post. Here we go !!
*I wish I'd listened more, talked less. I wish I had kept a journal and written down all the things I thought I'd remember and didn't. I wish I had listened to the whisper in my heart that always tells me the truth. I wish I had listened to the advice that I was given instead of "finding it out for myself"...much too late. I wish I'd watched less t.v. (did any of it add to my life? if it had been my last day here would I have watched that show?) Time is my most valued possession and it's the one thing I can't get more of, and I have no idea how much I have left. But I do decide how I "spend" it.
*Since none of us know if this is our last day - I want to spend as much of it as I can doing exactly what I love and I want to remember that even the part of the day that I'm unable to do what I want - each breath is still a gift I want to receive.
*If I could only tell you one truth that I absolutely know for sure - it would be to make taking care of yourself the #1 priority. You can get away with making bad choices for a long long time - but there is a price tag waiting for you - count on it. Your body is the most amazing and priceless miracle - take care of it TODAY.
*Your future depends of the choices you make today. Nothing is insignificant. Create the life you want - don't sit and wait for it to happen. WHAT DO YOU WANT ?? - the sky is the limit. Too many times on December 31st I have looked back at the year and "wished" I had lost more weight, or visited Paris, or become debt free. On your planner or calendar write in what steps you need to take to make it happen. Divide those by 12 for monthly tasks, then divide by 4 for weekly tasks, then divide by 7 days showing you what you need to do TODAY to make it happen. Because you deserve it - all of it - and more - with a cherry on top.

One more thing - it's never too late.

something to think about......

2011-01-03T18:01:00.000-06:00

“May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself.”
- Neil Gaiman

Eleanor put this on her Blog, and Leigh liked it and added it to her post and now I'm blogging it here for all of you. It's my wish for you as you contemplate what your goals or resolutions might be - it sure gave me something to think about.

Twenty Eleven

2010-12-31T13:30:00.002-06:00

Midnight clock Originally uploaded by Pauls Barkans

Here it is New Year's Eve, the last day of the year. Part of me is always sad about another year gone by - mainly because I should have done more, seen more, learned more, wasted less time, become a better person, lived in the moment - sound familiar?

I do a lot of reflecting and thinking on this day - about what I want for the New Year - my hopes, dreams, expectations and desires for the next 365 days. I've decided on a word for 2011 - wanna see?

Kind to myself

Kind to others

This word kept coming up for me, sometimes once a day, sometimes more.
So this year I'm concentrating on taking better care of myself (should have done it LONG ago). To nurture and heal myself with kindness, every day. No more begin on Monday, or next week, or later. It's living and loving myself with every breath. I will practice and exercise kindness to others and increase my random acts of kindness throughout the year.

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. Plato

Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible. Dalai Lama

Do you have a word this year? If you do, please share it and why you chose it and if you don't - I hope you will feel inspired to choose one and share it with us. Thank you each and every one for ALL the kindness you have showered me with this year - I am very blessed indeed.

Love to you, Happy New Year !!!

2010-12-25T10:17:00.000-06:00

Merry CHRISTmas

photo credit

away in a sleigh - with a little help from Fed Ex

2010-12-24T23:20:00.000-06:00

Wow, just in the "Nick" of time (no pun intended). A special friend needed a few gifts so I burned some midnight oil.

Christmas music on Pandora was blaring - there were charms, adhesive, chain, dominoes, and ribbon on every surface and although not everything worked out on the first try I was satisfied as I taped up the box with the surprise contents........................

I was excited to hear today that Pam had received the Christmas box!! But sad,
because this beautiful dragonfly pendant
didn't make it in one piece. I used Multi Medium to adhere the metal and glass layers together, will use her on a different project.

I thought they would look awesome with jeans and a cute sweater.

Domino painted with Adirondack ink, Heart with Wings is created using Tim Holtz's Ideaology pieces and the soldered piece with the crown says on the back "I am woman, hear me roar" - love that!!! The Joy and Paris pendants are soldered and embellished.

Finally a bracelet made with large stainless ball chain and inspirational reminders of what we need to live a "charmed" life. I had so much fun creating these for my good friend and I hope you all enjoy the magic of Christmas and to all a good night ;-)

a wish for you all......

2010-12-19T23:42:00.000-06:00

click

here

please

Merry CHRISTmas

Yikes - Christmas is next weekend !!

2010-12-18T22:09:00.001-06:00

3 day weekend = good thing

In the studio - breaks for food, water & sleep only

It's looking like a tornado hit this place

Some things are working really well / Some things not so much

Mind is racing in many directions

Adhesive is drying

Looking forward to Day 2

Stay tuned.....

Christmas Present for Me

2010-12-18T13:27:00.000-06:00

Giveaway of my favorite stuff on Lin's site here.

I know, like I need more stuff???

YES, wouldn't this make a great gift to me!
I've got my fingers crossed ;-)

what a difference a day makes.........

2010-12-11T23:22:00.001-06:00

SOME DAYS YOU DON'T SEE IT COMING....

;-)

That was the case this week!

I was sitting at the monthly meeting in my usual seat-

They begin describing an associate that has done a great job-

It's been almost 12 years-

Been nominated but they never call my name-

UNTIL NOW!!!!

HUH?

My mouth drops open, I turn red.

A selfless, generous co-worker had nominated me.

Recognition is a funny thing, you don't realllly think it matters until you get some. It felt really good, to be recognized, to be rewarded for all the days, months, years that I did a good job. You know what thrilled me to the bone? All the people I admire, that deserve it as much as I do, came to congratulate me and tell me how happy they were that I received this reward!!

The traveling trophy on my desk was cool, the plaque was neat, the balloons were fun.

The cash was WONDERFUL,

but the thing every associate likes the most?

The prime parking space reserved for them at the door!!!!!

December is a great time to have this parking spot waiting for you!

Thank you friends, you know who you are.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Cheryl since you nominated me, the parking space is yours when I'm not there!!

Got kids ?? Grandkids ?? Do you know any ?? Even if have none, how about something fun for you ?

2010-12-05T13:54:00.000-06:00

THIS IS GOOD - REALLY GOOD

Photo Credit WYSH

I found this today and couldn't wait to share it with you!! Kelly Rae Roberts, or KRR as we lovingly call her - spotlights her sponsors on her website. This is a cool way to find new and exciting sites that sell cool stuff.

WE ALL LIKE COOL STUFF .......RIGHT?

Check out WYSH they sell stuff for men and women but it's the darling t-shirts for kids that got me. You will want all of them - I don't have kids but wanted to buy one so bad I started looking at my dog out of the corner of my eye sizing her up LOL.

Let me know how you liked it and if you buy one email a photo of your cutie pie with it on and I'll post the photo on my Blog.

honor your spouse....

2010-12-04T16:44:00.001-06:00

CALLING ALL COUPLES!!!!
I found out about a giveaway on JRU Studio's Blog today - go to her website to read about Union28, a company that helps you honor your spouse.

My little acre

2010-12-04T15:29:00.000-06:00

Welcome to winter here in the Midwest. I am one of the crazies that was soooo excited when I woke up to a blanket of fresh white wet snow. There is nothing like that first snowfall - so clean and beautiful.

When I moved out to "my little acre" all my friends and co-workers asked why I would move so far from work and all of them? I can show you better than I could ever explain.

This is the view out my front window looking at my driveway. My little acre is surrounded on all four sides by oak and evergreen. Can you hear the silence??

Surrounded by beauty.

So....today I have been going back and forth from my computer to my overstuffed chair-and-a-half which is smack in front of a picture window overlooking my back yard. I try not to feel guilty as I can sit for hours watching the cardinals, red-headed woodpeckers, squirrel and rabbits scurrying around. I am always hoping the fawns will pass by again while I'm lounging there.

If you look closely you can see my neighbor's log home in the distance below ;-)

I feel like I'm on vacation every time I come into my driveway - in the summer it feels like a cottage by the sea, and in the winter it's like renting a bungalow in Vermont. I hope your home wraps it's arms around you and makes you happy to be there. THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME................

So today I'll spend dreaming, wondering, supposing, drawing, painting....

What are you up to?

I love UPS

2010-11-29T13:00:00.001-06:00

No matter what my day is like, if the UPS man has been here - it's a great day!!

IT USUALLY MEANS NEW SUPPLIES.......

Maybe paint, maybe pan pastels, or could be markers and pens I've ordered.

BUT NOT TODAY...

It's my new hoodie sweatshirt

by Tim Holtz !

SO COOL - I LOVE IT!!!

Good friends are hard to find.......

2010-11-28T16:18:00.000-06:00

Thank You Larry & Jane

Good Food

Great Friends

Caring & Sharing

China, Candles & Crystal

Turkey-Casseroles-Ham

All the Trimmings

But mostly just being with such delightful company!

I was blessed to be included in the guest list of family and friends invited to gather and celebrate the Holiday.

Thank you!

Remind Self - Live OUT LOUD

2010-11-26T07:00:00.003-06:00

I stopped by a favorite Blog this week, written by Jill. She always inspires with such truth and passion for living which you can experience HERE. In one of her posts she shared this same video, and I have heard the song many times but never REALLY listened to it (know what I mean?).... Today the words just hit me - WHAM - what am I waiting for? have you ever felt like that? Today is unwritten hmmmmmmmmmmm it's never too late. I don't know maybe you won't feel it like I was meant to today but I'm including it here - just in case you need to hear it too....Like Jill said on her Blog ...just wanna dance!

ThankFULL

2010-11-25T09:16:00.001-06:00

I'm wondering how each of you are spending your day today....are you cooking the BIG meal? Or did you make a special dish to take somewhere?

Yes, the best part is not working today! Plenty of time today to think about all the simple things I'm grateful for -

These things seem simple but are really miracles.

Each breath, to see, taste (especially today), hear, touch....to have the ability to speak, to move.

I'm blessed in so many other BIG ways - to have my job - with so many out of work and losing their homes, I am thankful every day that I have a job in a safe indoor environment!! I have WONDERFUL friends - if you are fortunate you might have a few very special friends that make your life a better place. While I have lost both parents in recent years (who I miss very much), I am grateful for a brother who lives close and would be there for me - no matter what.

I'm grateful to live in a country where I am FREE - to worship my God, to read what I like, speak my mind and free to travel and roam anywhere I choose. I never take this for granted and is my most valuable possession ....freedom.

I want to thank each of you that have admired my creations, or purchased any of my artful pieces. A HUGE thank -you to those who have taught me so much this year. Tim Holtz, for him creating is like breathing and he shares what he knows openly and with gusto. Wendy Vecchi, through her classes taught me to think outside the box. Kelly Rae Roberts, her big heart and amazing e-course rocked my world and introduced me to a group of amazing artists that have inspired me, given me sage advice and more support than I've ever thought was possible!

I have been invited to a dear friend's house for dinner - which will be quite a grand event with more food than we could possibly eat ;-) Fun and laughter will be plentiful.

SO..................... what will you be doing today and what are you MOST grateful for? Yes, I reallllly want to know.

Exploring is fun...

2010-11-22T18:35:00.000-06:00

I WONDER IF EVERYONE SPENDS AS MUCH TIME ORGANIZING AS I DO?

Each time I do it, it's because I can't find something I'm looking for! This weekend it was templates, I know they were here somewhere LOL. I'm starting an art journal - filled with new techniques - an exploration or as the book I'm using as a guide is titled: Creative Awakenings..Envisioning The Life of Your Dreams Through Art. I cut a window out of the cover which I will fill with an embossed metal piece once I find those templates ;-) I did brush gesso on the front and back covers, inside and out. It's a Canson 8 x 10 mixed media journal with (I think) 90 lb. cold press watercolor paper. I'll share my progress on occasion, this should be a lot of fun!!

Once I got everything somewhat in order and my workspace cleared - I was ready.....but as you can see Miss Juliet fussed and squeaked until she was perched on the desk so she could see exactly what was going on (at least it worked and she soon fell asleep).

If you have ever done an art journal, I'd love to know what your experience was like, what products were your favorites, or favorite techniques - whatever you want to share - I'm all ears and open to receive!!

Enjoy your week - Happy Thanksgiving

Take yourself on an adventure - I did and loved it!

2010-11-17T21:01:00.000-06:00

Tell me what you did, where you went or how you spoiled yourself.

COME ON - YOU KNOW YOU DESERVE SOME PAMPERING

it's that time of year....

2010-11-15T22:23:00.004-06:00

This time of year finds many of us doing a lot of reflection on our life during the past year, and thinking about what the next year holds. If you are looking for divine inspiration, check here. We also like to give meaningful gifts during this season, and JRU Studio is featured in one of the giveaway packages. Whether you want to enter the giveaway or just shop for someone special - I think you will find some great items. Enjoy!! fa la la la la...

I'm a lucky girl !!!

2010-11-15T21:15:00.000-06:00

Just look at the goodies that I received today !
I commented on 2 of my favorite blogs and was selected to receive a gift package. Can you believe it? Maya Road chipboard and Bingo buttons (maybe I should pick from these numbers showing to play Lotto). Tim Holtz lace chain (yum) and masks. And my favorite surprise - purple Maya Mist, and blue Perfect Pearls Mist. I just love Ranger products, and Wendy Vecchi is a fantastic artist and beautiful person inside and out. If you ever get the chance to take a class with her, JUMP AND RUN - she is so inspiring, patient and talented. Gee what should I make first?????

Please do yourself a favor ........

2010-11-08T10:54:00.002-06:00

I follow a Blog called "a girl and her brush" which you can visit HERE for her story.

She hit me square in the HEART today.......when I saw this on her Blog

photo credit

I hope you enjoy reading her post as much as I did, and I hope you will leave her a comment and tell her what you think. Oh yes, of course I would love it if you came back and told me what you thought as well - ENJOY.

I love free stuff - don't you?

2010-11-05T08:26:00.002-05:00

You all know I'm a big Tim Holtz fan, right? Well nothing could be better (in my opinion of course) than a stash of Tim stuff for FREE !!! A fellow fan is having a HUGE giveaway including grungeboard, distress inks AND lots of Ideaology. Can you say YAY? Hop over to her Giveaway HERE, and good luck. What are you up to this weekend? Inquiring minds want to know .....

We are each one amazing....

2010-11-02T09:56:00.000-05:00

GET INSPIRED HERE

Hallelujah - it's just 3 1/2 minutes - go ahead - do it for you

2010-10-25T20:54:00.000-05:00

Tonight I sat in a quiet room, candle burning.......

Listening - just listening

Inspiration comes in all size packages...

2010-10-25T17:28:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I find a Blog and just want to share it with everyone.

This is the case with Wild and Precious.

Take a moment to check out "Reader Celebration" of JRU Studios which has wonderful inspiring gifts for you or someone you care about. The Holidays are fast approaching ;-)

free as a bird......

2010-10-24T18:30:00.000-05:00

That's me!! Free as a bird today ;-)

So I put together this necklace for a friend of mine

I've been in a jewelry mode lately

It surprises even me how long it's been since I did any scrapbooking

This was the most beautiful Fall I can remember having for ages and the leaves are making me want to play with paint - do more collage - and see what happens!

Studio day today...

2010-10-11T18:41:00.000-05:00

Packing love and little hugs to special friends in Virginia today! These little shy quiet vintage girls are on the way ;-)

it's the little things - LOTS of little things...........

2010-10-10T20:40:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful day at the European Market in Chesterton Indiana

I got there early hoping to beat the unseasonable high of 80 degrees expected by noon

There were so many handmade delights

Darling felt pumpkins!

Bracelets and more Bracelets

Lots of furry friends were busy making new friends ;-)

But the longest lines and most attention was paid to fresh varieties of cheese, gourmet cupcakes and gooey delights. It seemed like everyone took home french bread, croissants and cookies for later.

There were pumpkins, veggies, concord grapes, popcorn, lamps with carved shades,

peppers and flowers galore.

If you have a Farmer's Market near you

make a visit before it's too late ;-)

I had so much fun, ran into people I knew and have to make one

more return trip because I got home and realized I had forgotten to purchase the

yummy Balsamic Creme that will be so wonderful on my fresh tomatoes and french bread.

Enjoy yourself and tell us all about it!!

This was such an inspiring day, I got lots of ideas for new items, took lots of photos and can't wait

to go back before they close on Halloween.

Happy October everyone

YUM

Inspiration is a beautiful thing.....

2010-10-05T23:29:00.000-05:00

Some days I feel like I could fly.

Some days I don't.

Sometimes life is a rocky road.

Sometimes it's not.

I'm thinking you have days that slam up against you and make you wonder if you are doing something wrong? Headed in the wrong direction? Missing something? Didn't get the memo on this????? I can't be the only one - right?

So I thought I would share with you one of my favorite Blogs to visit, whether I'm feeling up or down ;-) She never fails to inspire. Her work is unique and beautiful, and she is giving away a wonderful print.

PLEASE check it out and visit Jennifer at Studio JRU. Her work makes a great gift for someone you care about too !! Enjoy all your moments today.

you'll like it - and it's good for you?

2010-10-03T21:01:00.000-05:00

It was just a beautiful day today....sunny, cool and breezy. My week was a rush of work, overtime and sleep. I'm so grateful for all three. So today being my only day off - I wanted to cook something up that was easy to make and would keep me going this week.

If you haven't tried Quorn - you should! It comes in Chickn Cutlets, or Patties that are breaded. The patties can be microwaved in just a minute or so and when you pile on lettuce, tomato, cheese & your favorite condiment on toast - it's just great!!!

Today I made Tacos......yum. Can you hear it sizzling? I previously used Boca Crumbles (they are good for you as well and tasty) but thought I'd use Quorn today. I love using this in my chili too - bet you can fool your kids with this stuff ;-)

Foodies.....talk to me

2010-09-27T21:35:00.000-05:00

It's that time again.

Food Day at the office.

It seems I commonly hear about a great, quick, easy recipe and think to myself "I need to remember this one".....

But I never do ;-(

The day comes and I need to make a dish

and I come home

and stare at my wonderful shelf of cookbooks.

What to make?

I need your help.

With the Holidays coming there will be many opportunities

to whip of an awesome dish to go.

Please tell us all your favorite dish to make and take.

Show off your recipe that everyone oohs and aahs over.

Ready everyone?

I'll go first.

Take 1 philadelphia cream cheese block

Cut in two pieces longwise

Roll each into a rounded hot dog shape

Pour a packet of Good Seasons onto a plate

Roll each piece into the seasoning til covered

Lay both of them side by side on a plate

(Doilies are a nice touch)

Serve with Ritz crackers

YUM

ENJOY enJOY - do you?

2010-09-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

I made a new friend this summer, her name is Elizabeth and I want to share her with you. She's living in Puerto Rico, and she's FULL of energy, love and kindness - and she'll tell you about really ENJOYING THE RIDE. I think we all know this long ride is going to get bumpy, rough at times, scary, unpredictable and there will be curves in the road we were not expecting. So how do we ENJOY it all??

"Finding Connections" is by Elizabeth, I think you'll enjoy her work which she sells on Etsy. She would be thrilled if you stopped by her Blog and read it for yourself, and feel free to leave a comment for her letting her know how it affected your ride. I'm going to post today my favorite part which is like an affirmation for me, almost a prayer to repeat daily and I sure hope you enJOY it as much as I did. Oh by the way, I love comments too ;-)

“Enjoying the Ride” is a decision. We have to face it, to embrace it, to work on it, to practice it, to make it a habit, to believe in it, to have faith in it. Most of the religions have an answer for this approach. The one that I know best has Jesus words written in the Bible: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” And I strongly believe that we can do that, too. We can change our attitude toward everything in our life and manage to Enjoy the Ride through this amazing but yet difficult journey we are in. I can write a long book on this theme, but this is not the time or place. I have many, many experiences lived that can prove that changing the attitude, being grateful, forgiving, embracing each moment, seeing the cup half full instead of half empty, loving one another, being understanding, being kind, being honest, being brave will get one to Enjoy the Ride. I read once that we have the responsibility of being happy, to smile at others so we can help others to be happy, and Enjoy the Ride. In the movie “Patch Adams”, the character said: “The reason adults should look as though they are having fun, is to give kids a reason to want to grow up!” ~ Patch Adams

I have this motto in my life and I try hard to never forget: a minute you dedicate to negative thinking, to hate, to complain, to suffer, to envy, to judge, to condemn, to make fun of others, to be angry and stay that way …..it is a minute lost, and that minute will never get back. It is my duty and my responsibility to get to Enjoy the Ride!

Flip the Lid.......

2010-09-14T20:21:00.000-05:00

The box of goodies is in the mail to Virginia.

DRUMROLL....

But not before I got a photo of what she'll see when she finally lifts the lid on her special box.

As promised, I'm sharing what I put inside that is sure to bring a smile to her face every time she opens her box to carefully hide away her latest treasure.

After all - it's so much fun to be a girl !!!!!

my little secret - what's on the inside ???

2010-09-13T11:13:00.002-05:00

Remember the box?

Plain, like a white canvas staring at you.

Where is my magic wand, I need to turn this into a Victorian Memory Box...........

Sorry it took sooo long, you know how it is, you're so excited to jump into a new project - especially a commissioned one for someone special ;-)

Then real life gets in the way !!!!!!!!!!!
I never found my wand so I grabbed some gorgeous paper from my Mariposa stack, and my Tim Holtz treasures - Metal feet, keyholes, charms, keys. Found my Maya Road felt flowers in black, some lace trim, fibers, ribbon, a tag, and a crystal knob. OH! I saved a little surprise for the inside of the box. What do you think she'll see when she lifts the lid???? Pop in tomorrow and I'll show you.

STOP - you deserve a break -check this out !

2010-09-08T20:53:00.000-05:00

We both know you really want to exhale.

Walk along breezy quaint streets lined with unique shops. Eat homemade ice cream.

Sit on a park bench watching couples holding hands, kids giggling.

You might choose fried chicken cooked in a black cast iron skillet - YUM.

Then again you might want to eat a crisp salad laced with fresh berries and giant croutons on a veranda.

Fried biscuits with homemade apple butter?

There is so much to do in Nashville Indiana, it's like a little village tucked away an hour south of Indianapolis.

Log cabins, bed & breakfast, art galleries, music and activities galore.

My favorite thing in Nashville is PAPERTRIX. This is my favorite store, I stay for hours when I'm there. You are in for a real treat if you've never been. It is jam packed with artzy phartzy stuff. Cindy and Wayne own Papertrix and are always there to demo something for you or help you in any way they can. They have the best of everything whether it's stamps you want, paper, tools, ink, paint, books/magazines/DVD's, or unique embellishments.

With a peek at their website you could coordinate your visit so that you can attend one of the awesome classes they offer with incredible guest artists that fly in. There are little shops tucked away in every corner and Papertrix is on the backside of another shop so be sure and get a town map !! Tell them Linda R said Hi!

You will not be sorry and you will be full of inspiration and energy when you come home - it's a HAPPY place.. Don't forget your camera ;-)

Drumroll........sneak peek coming soon!

2010-09-07T21:40:00.000-05:00

Remember the plain grey drab box I showed you in a post here last month?

Well, my interpretation of a Memory Box is DONE!! So excited, can't wait to send it off to it's new owner ;-)

But not yet.....................I need photos so you can see how it turned out.

Come back tomorrow to see it.

And as you think back on your many experiences, what is something you think she should keep along her journey and tuck in this memory box??? You know, something she will look back on years later with a smile or a tear and be glad she kept it.

who stole my week -- o.k. just bring it back and I won't be mad....

2010-08-31T23:14:00.000-05:00

How on earth will I get anything done if my days keep disappearing? I can't believe it's been a week since my last post.

I decided that to get the most creative answer to my challenge this week - I was going to need to ask ALL OF YOU for input !!!

o.k....now I need you to really contemplate this one and give me your very FAVORITE please, what is your most awesome and eye-catching font. I have searched free font sites until I'm weary and can't find what I want...maybe something where the tops and bottoms of f's and g's are REALLY pronounced and flourished or emphasized.

So....tell me what you REALLY think ,,, Thanks ;-)

what do you BELIEVE for sure........

2010-08-22T10:53:00.000-05:00

For a long time now Oprah has given her answer to the question "What I know for sure" on the last page of her magazine and to be sure many others have contributed their answer to that same question.

I got up extra early this morning and I'm so glad I did - it was a beautiful breezy morning and the only interruption to the amazing silence was the sweet sound of birds chattering to each other ;-) I walked Miss Juliet a bit allowing her to sniff a zillion blades of grass.....

We came inside and I fixed a cup of Apricot tea..... I sat in my favorite chair just letting my mind wander and asked myself What do I BELIEVE? hmmmmmmmmm Sometimes a fresh perspective helps us move outside our comfort zone and explore new POSSIBILITIES....think about things we normally don't have time to ponder. One could answer this question in so many ways.

We are all from so many different backgrounds and experiences and have a wide variety of dreams - So I'm wondering my dear friends.....

what do you believe ?????????????

Things are pretty much back to normal......normal???

2010-08-21T23:48:00.002-05:00

Well I found paw prints on my keyboard so it wasn't hard to figure out who was here !!

Thank you all for all the well wishes, Miss Juliet appreciates all the attention and she is feeling much better today. Everything in and out in the expected manner and she's full of energy again. She returns in a couple of weeks for her distemper shots so I'm sure we'll have another difficult few days (don't tell her yet).

I'm having a GREAT weekend, first I found Margaret's blog - she lives in Arkansas which caught my eye right away because my family is all from there (my parents moved up North before I was born). I googled Lakeview where she is and it is only 30 minutes from Yellville where my folks are from, so we'll keep in touch....that was fun.

I bet you're wondering what this box is all about....well, I'm about to turn it into a Memory Box for a special young lady named Meena. She is a lovely teenager and her grandma is a very very good friend of mine. I'm sure she is going to have a lot of lovely memories ahead so I want an awesome place for her to keep them. Stay tuned, it will be quite a transformation!! Isn't she lovely?

dog day afternoon.......hope this ends soon!

2010-08-19T22:42:00.000-05:00

Hi, I'm Miss Juliet but you can just call me JuJuBe. Mom's in the studio making a bracelet for her friend Pam....so I'm blogging today since I can see she's not going to get around to it. During her vacation (I didn't get to go) I stayed at the spa - most of you call it the Vet's office.

Normally it's really nice because Gayle at the front desk loves me and shares her yogurt with me at lunchtime. It was like that this trip, except Dr. Amy gave me a Rabies and Bordetella shot, and heartworm test on Monday! grrrrrr Since I'm only 4 1/2 pounds, I have what they say is a reaction every time and I still feel awful.

I can tell mom is worried, I heard her on the phone with the spa, but Gayle and Dr. Amy are off today....you can bet she'll be calling them back tomorrow - hope they don't cook up anything dreadful to do to me! First I drove Mom crazy cause I had "the runs" so when she didn't want to give me anything to eat - I just acted pitiful and it worked. UNTIL I threw up today - that was all it took and Mom went into her holding, kissing, worrying mode BUT no more food. All I got was yogurt. It doesn't look like I'm going to get my bedtime goodies tonight either so I might as well go to sleep. She'll be coming to get me for bedtime soon - you all have a real nice weekend, it was nice meeting you ;-)

A dream comes true......and it was better than I imagined...

2010-08-17T17:51:00.001-05:00

O.K. so I still have that smile on my face!! I just can't think of a time when I've had soooooo much fun.

The photo in the bottom right is before the class. A couple of us got there an hour early (to be first in line of course) and Tim was out there and chatted with us until the class was ready to begin. They bring ALL the supplies so you only bring yourself. It was cozy with only about 40 students in each class so we got to joke around and chat and ask him anything we wanted.

The apron I have on was created by Tim and was sent to the first 50 or so that purchased his book Compendium of Curiosities (seen on my sidebar). He sent the apron as a bonus and personalized my book using my name, a message, and signed it.

So I asked him to sign my apron and he did! His best friend Mario signed the other pocket for me - they both are so much fun and tend to every detail to make sure the class is a blast. The domino with the clock was not made in his class but I loved making it and turning it into a pendant for a necklace. The heart piece with wings is on a chain for a gorgeous funky necklace and the keyhole (with tiny photo we put inside) is also a necklace. The metal clock has a metal bird and tassel and is a pin (it's actually a domino too that we used as a base to attach everything to). We made a bracelet that is so darn cute but I'll save that for another time as I have a request to "customize" one and will share it when I've finished.

That night Tim was doing "demos" to his mob/stalkers/fans in the main room and when I asked him to demo his new tissue tape he made the tag you see above - LOVE IT! At the end of the night (yes I was still watching him hours later) he signed it and gave it to me whooooo whooooooo. Thanks for listening as I shared my thrilling little vacation with you all over a glass of tea. Ya'll come back now ya hear?

Great things come in tiny packages.........I mean suitcases.

2010-08-16T17:27:00.000-05:00

I'm still on a high from my classes with Tim Holtz. Here is the tiny suitcase we distressed - it's about 4" x 2.5". The first photo is a sample for the class. The other photos are my book. We added the charm and key to it. Then we set out to make the tiny book that would go inside, starting with grungeboard pieces. This was a blast! It has pages with pockets for little notes, pieces of memories - plus photo pockets and tags to write notes or journal on. The closure has a "J" for Journey (one that I wish would never end). Check in tomorrow to see the jewelry.

Share and Share alike....

2010-08-16T13:22:00.001-05:00

I recently finished taking FLYING LESSONS with Kelly Rae Roberts and it was a wonderful inspiring experience. At first I didn't sign up, but I just kept thinking about it. Finally I decided to do it and it was worth every latte or magazine I gave up to take the class! The amazing thing about Kelly (or KRR as those who took the class affectionately called her) is that she DOES tell you exactly what to do....all those baby steps you can take at your own speed. She said it was very difficult to get those that had "made it" to share the tips and real information of how they got there when she asked. She believes as I do that there is room for us all, we are each unique offering different gifts whether yours is cooking, sewing, textiles or coaching. Many of us that have taken the class have become affiliates to spread the word as I am, giving you the chance to fly too. This is not a rah rah, you can do it experience that pumps you all up during the class and then the next day you go back to your life.....OH NO.... this is a roadmap of the practical steps she took and what worked for her...so I'm sharing what I've found that helped me, in case it's what you need too ;-) Check it out ! Click here to visit Kelly Rae Roberts LLC.

watch this AMAZING piece to the end....you won't be sorry....you'll believe

2010-08-15T17:04:00.001-05:00

It's a good day......

2010-08-12T08:20:00.000-05:00

This is always a beautiful site, bags packed and ready to go.

Where to?

An artFULL journey. One of my little goals about to happen after a long wait.

I'm off to Ohio for Stampaway Convention - but the best part is that I'm taking 2 classes with Tim Holtz, an artsy Master.

I'll post again when I get back, have a wonderful weekend!

How to Be Alone......

2010-08-09T22:50:00.002-05:00

Friends shared this awesome video with me and I'm going to share it with you.

I have always enjoyed alone time, and go anywhere and everywhere alone.

I love to people watch - you'd be surprised at how no one cares or notices you anyway (no guts no glory they say).

If that is not your tendency or you haven't tried it, check out video here, maybe it will change the view from where you are.

Peek A Boo, let's see you...

2010-08-06T22:02:00.000-05:00

Whew! The days are just FLYING by, sorry I'm late on my promised post.
After making the books you saw this week for my good friend, I found some little 4 x6 books I could recover and create as little brag books that fit into your purse (grammas liked this too). Say awwwwww, ready?

As you can kind of see in the bottom photo, mommy just slides her picture in the empty place, too cute huh? Wish I could find some more of those little sheep, just love 'em. What "baby first" do you think is a good one?

Baby Love........

2010-08-04T21:55:00.000-05:00

Hi guys, glad you stopped by

Grab an iced tea, it's HOT out there.

Now that you are comfy, I'll share some of the inside pages!!

Except for the first and last pages, these are on the left side,

Mommy slides her photo in the blank pockets on the right side.

I make a smaller version that I'll share tomorrow - let me know if you have a favorite.

A Beautiful Gift for those special Baby Firsts...

2010-08-03T23:00:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite things to create is a "Baby Firsts" book. I originally saw Anna Griffin create one, so I put my own spin on it using different products, sizes, and embellishments.
I first made the pink girlie one for a co-worker having her first baby. She recently had a baby boy so she wanted another and I finished it this weekend.

The idea is that I create the title and across from it the new mom simply slides in her appropriate photo. The perfect show-off brag book for mom or new gramma.

This is a mere tease, come back tomorrow to peek inside.

Beauty is within...

2010-07-28T20:26:00.000-05:00

Choosing Beauty is a wonderful website, a place to celebrate, get inspired and enjoy many wonderful works by amazing artists (they actually have giveaways so that you can own one of their awesome pieces).

Be good to yourself, take yourself there for a visit and exhale.

My favorite ingredients...

2010-07-27T22:58:00.001-05:00

I'm talking to my creative peeps today! o.k.... everyone that knows me, knows I am crazy for Tim Holtz products. And there are many - he has his own lines and designs for Ranger Ink too.

I'm wondering what is your FAVORITE item or product?? What can you not create without? Your secret weapon - your weakness when you're trying to stay on budget, LOL (did I say budget?).

We all want to know ;-)

Can you hear me now???

2010-07-25T20:20:00.000-05:00

We have all heard that phrase so many times, it's part of our culture now. I had a quiet whisper that I didn't even know I ignored. Maybe it wasn't a whisper yet, just an inner stirring??

I started this collage on canvas during a class with Jen Starr before I purchased Kelly Rae's book, or knew about Flying Lessons ;-) Now I look at it and know why I never finished - I wasn't ready yet. This must have been some internal knowing that I was about to spread my wings and really learn how to FLY. It was only a "whisper" then.....but now I gaze at it every day and smile at the beautiful wings. I will finish it with pieces of my journey along the way.

What are your whispers saying today? Not just the big loud whisper, but the little ones that you can barely hear. If we could all hear them, what would we hear them saying??

What's in a Journal?

2010-07-23T21:31:00.000-05:00

Now I can show you this journal I made for my Friend!
I couldn't post it before she received it, now could I? I had such a great time creating it. I started with grey grungeboard, added layers of Distress Ink and stamped images, and finishing with Perfect Pearls (all by Tim Holtz & Ranger). The metal embellishments are by Tim Holtz's line called Ideaology, and the flower was die cut from his Alterations line. I scrapbooked photos of her daughter and precious grandchildren in the back to inspire her entries, a personal touch that she really enjoyed.
She emailed me this morning to tell me it arrived, and there is no better thrill to an artist than hearing that the recipient is happy with what you've created. I would love to know what in your opinion was your best creation? Could be a recipe, painting, collage - something that you still remember with intense pleasure, your best work, most special piece - please tell us about it here ;-)

A Beautiful Gift

2010-07-15T21:26:00.002-05:00

Are you feeling lucky? Carrie, a fellow artist is giving away one of her beautiful pieces - and yes I would love to win and put it right up in my studio but I'm going to give all my friends a chance too! She gives a sneak and fun peek at her studio and invites everyone to come on over for a look AND you just might be the lucky winner. You can visit her here.
Tomorrow's Friday, enjoy every moment ;-)

GIVEAWAYS are fun especially ARTFUL ones.

2010-07-14T22:30:00.002-05:00

Surprised?
Yes, I bet you are - I've been neglecting you lately and have not posted a post in days.
WHY???? because I have the biggest "to do" list I've had in ages.
It's a good thing ;-)

But that's not why I'm butting into your life today ;-)
I found a cool GIVEAWAY (love these) and am sharing it with all of you.
This awesome friend let's you choose which item you win on her Blog

check it out!!

It's Independence Day

2010-07-02T07:07:00.000-05:00

Everyone of us loves this Holiday - the BBQ's, fireworks in the sky, and getting together with friends and family. I have just finished my first ecourse which I cannot begin to explain here today. But today is the beginning, an Independence Day of the "real" me.

In the coming weeks I will be making many changes to my Blog, my Facebook pages, and creating pieces of art to share with you. I invite you to share of yourself, and feel free to comment on what freedom and independence mean to you, what you think the coming 365 days will bring to your experience?? I'm so curious, so come on in and sit a spell or hop over to my Fan page and tell me what you're thinking?

http://www.facebook.com/pages/manage/#!/pages/Me-Myself-and-You/105043419547115

2010-06-20T17:43:00.000-05:00

I am remembering my Dad on this Father's Day. Looking at this photo I can remember him holding the seat of my new 2 wheeler and trotting along as I wobbled forward. I remember him practicing my tap and ballet steps right along with me. But the most vivid memory of all is that grin of his every time I asked "How you doin' Dad?" and he'd say "Bout 90 backwards"....and I would laugh every single time. You are greatly missed, love you Daddy.

dog doctors are special

2010-06-13T14:58:00.002-05:00

Do you show your vet that you appreciate him/her?

This envelope (sorry card inside and no photo) was made for a friend that honors the anniversary of her Vet's new building each year.

He looks forward to these special "thank you" cards from her and always asks if this is from her artist friend. So sweet - make someone feel special this week !

it's unconditional

2010-06-12T22:11:00.000-05:00

LOVE this little face. Spent a lazy rainy day with Miss Juliet today. Doesn't get better than this. She doesn't care if it's rain or shine as long as she gets fed, held and plenty of kisses. How did you spend the day?

Sometimes you just gotta give in.....

2010-02-01T22:11:00.003-06:00

I would love to give you a sneak peak at the stack of completed pages for the baby book project, but can't take a chance on the mommy seeing it before the presentation ;-) This has been a labor of love and I'm nearing it's completion and am very excited!! These are the last photos ....I think that is the painful part of scrapping. Figuring out which photos will be in the final cut, and what theme or common thread for each layout will be...when selecting from hundreds of photos. There is nothing like the high of looking over the work after it's complete.

2010 A Fresh Beginning

2010-01-01T10:14:00.002-06:00

Finally, 2009 is part of our past. We begin refreshed and anew, looking forward to all things possible in 2010.

Keep Going & Going

2009-12-12T21:23:00.004-06:00

Today I watched a great movie "Julie & Julia".... everyone who has a dream, has a passion or knows what makes them happy should take the time to watch this. It reminded me that no matter what anyone thinks, no matter the roadblocks or rejection you just keep going. If you've dreamed it, it's already real. When you create anything, you are the only you that can create just that, just that way. It's the doing that is the magic. It happens inside of you.

This doesn't have to be a huge undertaking like her Cookbook. It could be raising a great human being, cooking wonderful healthy meals for your family, growing wildflowers, giving your time to your church or neighbors, or writing in your journal. You are here in this specific generation, in this time for a reason. That reason always coincides with what oozes from you naturally, what makes your soul sing? After all, none of us knows if we have 40 years, 6 months, 3 weeks, an hour.....there are only so many sands in your hourglass - spend them well. Do what you love - walk gently on this Earth, listen twice and speak once.

THANKSgiving

2009-11-26T14:18:00.003-06:00

US magazine runs a feature called "25 things You Don't Know About Me" featuring someone famous. I thought it would be fun to list 25 things you might not know about me. 1. I grew up in Gary Indiana 2. I have a brother 2 1/2 years younger named Mike. 3. My first dog was "Tramp" after my then favorite movie Lady and the Tramp. 4. I always had a Toni home perm or a painfully tight ponytail. 5. When I was little I walked to the grocery and put a box of Jello pudding in my little purse. The manager saw me and asked how I would pay, I said "Oh my I forgot my $" and he let me go home. I'm sure they had quite a laugh. I never again went inside the store with mom as I was terrified they would tell her 6. I am terrified of heights. 7. As a child Elvis was my boyfriend. 8. Performed tap and ballet at the historic Memorial Auditorium in Gary. 9. Took 3rd in the State for fastest 10-key adding machine. 10. Twirled baton and cape for Horace Mann High School. 11. First library book "Grimm's Fairy Tales" 12. Hate goodbyes. 13. Married, divorced 14. I was a hair stylist for 8 years. 15. Worked downtown Chicago (secretary to executive of then little known company MCI) 16. Terrified of storms, thunder and lighting. 17. Have ALWAYS been too sensitive and every emotion expressed by crying 18. Fiercely loyal 19. Dislike the color blue. 20. Treasure my freedom above any material possession. 21. Belief in God, and Jesus as Son of God absolute. 22. Growing up loved to dance and swim. 23. Crave peace and silence. 24. Smoked for 20 years, beginning in my teens. 25. Always had zero tolerance for drug use.
I am thankful for all the experiences that made me who I am, all the lessons I have learned, and the unconditional love from both parents. I have met many people from many places and backgrounds and am fortunate to have several wonderful friends. May you enjoy today, and reflect on all the blessings in your own life.

Christmas is coming....

2009-11-09T21:49:00.003-06:00

I know, I know....I've been terribly neglectful of my Blog. No excuses, just a lot of "reasons" and now I can hear Ho Ho Ho off in the distance and it's making me crazy. Every year I say I'm going to start really early and make all the things I bought for some great projects and then LIFE HAPPENS. So this weekend a friend shared an idea with me and this is the fruit of my labor and our laughter. This trifold card folds up and lays flat but can also stand up on a bookshelf, desk or table with your favorite photos on each side. The theme can be Christmas as it is here, or Family, or Grandkids, or The Love of My Life. They are all different, one of a kind. Hopefully this is the beginning of a fast and fantastic stack of goodies - after all I have a special friend in Virginia waiting for something special ;-) Stay tuned - HUGS to all.

Lady Juliet Waits...

2009-09-08T22:11:00.005-05:00

Well, the adhesive is drying on the final embellishments I added to the front of the Baby First books. They will be ready tomorrow! I had the day off and went for my stress test - knew what to expect since I'd done it before. Thank goodness they have improved the medication so that the unpleasantness lasts only a minute instead of 6 very long minutes. The Dr. is there during the test, and tells me "there are changes" and those changes could indicate a problem... but these things are not perfect so until the scan comes back to confirm or deny the "indications" we wait......and pray. I started to let my mind run away with me and worry set in until I came home and saw this little face waiting for me ;-) When I picked up this little wiggle worm, I realized whatever we find, was there before today good or bad - so let's enjoy today. We went outside and walked about, came in for the usual "treats" and sat in my big cushy chair to play. You can't look at this silly face or let her lick your cheek without laughing. She's 4 1/2 lbs. of happy all of the time. She's looking at me now, wondering what could be more important than picking her up, so gotta go.....see you tomorrow ;-)

Labor Day ...

2009-09-07T11:07:00.002-05:00

As I began my Labor Day as usual with my television tuned to the Jerry Lewis Telethon, I began to wonder about how this day began and what it really means aside from the "day off work" with pay so I turned to the internet and here is what I found. Labor Day is observed annually in honor of working people on the first Monday in September in all the states and territories, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The day was originally conceived in 1882 by Peter J. McGuire, the radical founder and indefatigable warrior of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of New York. On 8 May, McGuire proposed to the New York City Central Labor Union that the first Monday in September, because it fell midway between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving Day, be set aside annually as a "labor day." His effort bore fruit on Tuesday, 5 September 1882, when workers in New York City held a large parade and a festival sponsored by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor. In 1884, the New Yorkers held a parade on the first Monday of September and designated that day as the annual Labor Day. The agitation in New York City was soon followed by labor unions in other states, which staged vigorous campaigns in their state legislatures for the establishment of Labor Day as a legal holiday. Their earliest victories were in Oregon and Colorado, where Labor Day was declared to be a state holiday in February and March 1887, respectively. The next year the American Federation of Labor passed a resolution for the adoption of a Labor Day at its St. Louis, Missouri, convention. Thirty states had followed the lead of Oregon and Colorado by the time the first Monday in September was made a national holiday by an act of Congress, with the bill signed into law by President Grover Cleveland on 28 June 1894. In the early twenty-first century, Labor Day parades, rallies, festivals, and speeches were still organized by labor unions across the country and often supported by political leaders. Because of the shrinking popular base of traditional labor unions, however, most Americans tended to regard the day merely as the finale of a long summer of fun in which hot dogs, barbecues, and picnics reigned.

Labor Day Weekend projects...

2009-09-06T16:44:00.012-05:00

Well, as usual I thought I had a lot of time before little Ryan Christopher came into the world. Two baby books were promised to new Gramma Angie B. One for herself, and one to give the new momma (her daughter). Well, Ryan made an entrance 8-27-09 at a whopping 8 lb. 15.4 oz. so this was the weekend to finish up the brag books. I had already custom covered the books in blue. Now to create the individual pages opposite where the real photo will slip into place. It begins with plain patterned paper cut into rectangles, then a layer trimmed with pinking shears and attached. The labels for Baby Firsts are made, but not attached until an overnite of drying time on the sparkles added to each page dries. Now this is the fun part, customizing each page with words, tags, images, and embellishments to indicate what sweet photo will grace the adjoining page. I love watching the recipient's face as they flip through the book excited about the photos that they will slip in place.
Once done, I'll post a photo of the finished project. So cute, so many memories, so many smiles.
Then it's on to the next project, It's only Sunday so I'm on target.

Holidays are Coming...ready or not!

2009-08-17T21:37:00.012-05:00

Well, a three day weekend hmmmm ....should I keep procrastinating? Or dive in and get it done once and for all? Since I had not been feeling well - it was easy to put off the inevitable MOVING THE STUDIO! I have moved out of the bedroom studio with most of my goodies to one end of the living room. The view was great, but I had to dig out everything I needed. There was no room to stamp, emboss, all the crazy stuff I love. So........... this meant dragging tables from the garage, cleaning them, moving a ton of books to the living room to allow for my "stuff" but what the heck. So I moved furniture, books, cleaned, and had new space all ready. The next day with the help of my brother (who was thrilled I'm sure) we cleaned and dragged in several tables. Unmangled computer and telephone wires, and finally the room was ready. Today I organized, reorganized, stacked, sorted and exhaled. I had a little time to sit back and relish my huge "working" desk station for layouts - I'm thrilled with my big island with stations for stamping, drying or just starting an alternative project at the same time. The armoire still holds lots of valuables, and a corner station for die cuts. My fabulous bookshelves allow me to "see" all my stash and pull it out easily. I'm sooooooooo ready. Now I can come home from work and just sit at my project and play immediately. No more moving everything, trying to get lighting after dark that works and wanting to stamp or emboss a tag but - there was no room to do it! This is going to be fun, so to celebrate I thought I'd give you a peek at 2 of my current projects naked. This is how I begin, the first is a collection of papers that really make the photos pop. I select a couple of embellishments I think might work and start on the design. The other project is a special paper with velvet raised butterflies for a journal. The grey piece is the grungeboard as it comes - boring right? Oh, but just wait ;-) The doodads and trinkets are a collection of items that will be used to embellish the cover. Once I finish the scrapbook layout and the journal cover, I'll post them so you can see the results. Stay tuned!

The Holidays are Coming ready or not.....

2009-08-17T21:22:00.001-05:00

Well, I had a three day weekend. Hmmm should I keep procrastinating

Holidays are Coming ready or not?

2009-08-17T21:09:00.001-05:00

Bet you were Wondering....

2009-07-26T23:41:00.003-05:00

Bet you're wondering where I've been? Well, I've been here - just feeling under the weather. I couldn't resist sharing with you a sample of the beautiful fresh bouquet I found sitting on my desk Friday morning. A dear friend left them for me, and yes they did wonders for my spirit!! Nature is purest art, each petal a miracle of incredible beauty. The fragrance is very delicate and a treat for the senses. Thank you dear friend ;-)

July Fourth and What It Means to You?

2009-07-04T15:27:00.009-05:00

Independence
apple pie
Freedom
picnics
Forefathers
Liberty
fireworks
1322 words
Pledge Allegiance
flag
responsibility
Rights
Country
America
My Country Tis of Thee.

Girl's Just Wanna Have Fun...

2009-07-03T23:12:00.010-05:00

Today was a day just for myself. There are a LOT of you out there that think you can't go anywhere alone, and let me tell you how much you are missing out on. You really need to try it if you haven't. I love to trot around with my best gal pal as much as anyone and if she could have gone, I would have truly enjoyed that. But there are times when that just isn't possible, so you enjoy a different type of day where time has no meaning. You can peruse, and lollygag all you want and have fun, after all aren't you good company? I could have done a lot of different things today but I decided to go to one of me favorite stores, Archiver's in Orland Park, IL. It's jam packed with all kinds of goodies, flowers, stamps, glitter paper, and embellishments in every color and size. They are very helpful whether it be products or technique you are asking about. I shopped every aisle at least once, decided on which technique books I couldn't live without, and dug through all the sale bins until exhausted - I finally dropped into my car seat.
It was a gorgeous day in the 70's ....so I headed down the road to MiMi's and wow did they have the flowers outside, and a cute little cafe sign inviting you in. It is a "chain" but with fresh homemade offerings that change periodically. After much indecision I settled on Seared scallops with grilled asparagus over ravioli covered in tomato asiago sauce. Yes, it was delicious ;-)
I enjoyed a leisurely drive home, and let my mind skip over all the new ideas or applications I saw today.....sugar-coated paper borders, chipboard all covered stamped and blinged out, multi-design paper touched with glitter, summer colors of raspberry and melon, lots of metal embellishments, and paper paper paper. My batteries are recharged, and I hope you had a great day too!!

Technorati

2009-06-28T15:37:00.004-05:00

Inspiration

2009-06-27T19:47:00.005-05:00

This is what a best friend looks like! A woman who is not only willing to act silly, but shares my love of art, textiles, and paper. We bounce ideas off each other, oohing an aahing over patterned paper, inks, and LOTS of books and magazines. We have shared many laughs, tears, good news and bad over the last twenty something years. Today was a scorcher (over 90 degrees) so we got together for breakfast to catch up on the past week's news and activities. We went to a few shops and perused the latest magazines at Borders while sharing ideas on products, stamping, inks, and different tools. Such a fun day! We wilted a bit in the heat between stops (even the going in and out was amazingly HOT).....but as always we left each other inspired to go home and CREATE. Thanks for a great day, friend ;-)

Pretty Post

2009-06-20T23:24:00.007-05:00

I finally woke up early on a Saturday. I really wanted to get started this morning because I had promised a friend at work that I would have a garden post finished for her this week. It's for a Memory Garden honoring her gramma. I hadn't painted in a while, my scrapbooking took me on a long journey and it was fun to get that brush in my hand again!

In The Garden

2009-06-20T23:18:00.001-05:00

I had a good time this morning finishing this
Garden Post for a friend at work.

Saturday in New Buffalo Michigan

2009-06-14T11:24:00.006-05:00

When I need an inspiration fix, artsy phartzy upload, or just a perfect day....I call on my best gal pal Woz. Her name is actually Linda, but we all affectionately call her Woz (a shortened version of her last name). We were praying for a moderate day and we got just what we wished for - it was drizzly and cloudy but the temperature stayed in the 60's. It was perfect for running around in and out and the rain kept the huge crowds away. The day began early as I have a 45 minute drive to her driveway, and we had breakfast plans at a local eatery. Everyone else had the same plan, so we darted over to Starbuck's instead. So much to talk about, and we never shut up for a minute until we returned to her driveway that night! Oops I'm getting ahead of myself...we had a leisurely drive to New Buffalo and it's always amazing to see how many studios, art barns, or businesses fold up, disappear, or pop up each time we visit. We started in town at a cute shop and as you can see I need some practice at taking my own photos, ha. Now of course my plan was to take photos all along the journey: the inspiring pieces of art we saw and certainly the incredible food we would share - but again I failed miserably as a tour guide. I was having way too much fun to document for later and didn't realize it until we had finished our fabulous dinner!! New Buffalo is the beginning of Red Arrow Highway which winds around along the wooded edge of the Lake through 4 towns. This picturesque drive is peppered with bungalows selling old and new decor items, flea markets, antique shops, snack shops, a Roadhouse, art galleries, trendy clothing stores, handmade art, a Swedish Bakery (which closed before we got there) and so many places tucked away filled with treasures. We saw a chair made from luggage pieces, speciality food items like Key Lime Mustard Sauce, nostalgic jewelry and depression glass. We oohed and aahed, and giggled while we sampled veggie dips set out to entice us, tried on clothes, sifted through baskets and boxes of trinkets and finally took a break at our favorite New Buffalo restaurant for "crabbies" (hot crispy won ton balls filled with crab and cream cheese served with a sweet Barney sauce)- it wasn't crowded and we were seated by the huge windows and chatted while we shared a Cobb salad and our personal selections of soup. Yum. Now back to the trail ;-) There is so much to see, and many of the shops have gardens or fabulous landscaping with huge hydrangeas, and baskets filled with a variety of lush overhanging flowers. When they began to roll up the sidewalk we headed up to Michigan City Lighthouse mall and stopped in a couple of stores there. If you are looking for a good summer read, I hear "The Girls from Ames" is a hot choice. It's about a 40 year friendship between several women. Time flies and now we get on Route 12 for a scenic ride home and along the way we should come upon the brand new restaurant Bartlett's - which we did but after 40 other carloads had arrived and been seated LOL....so change of plans we will be forced to eat at our VERY FAVORITE restaurant near home. Which we did and had the most marvelous time catching up and sharing all the little details that only your best gal pal wants to know. When I dropped Linda off at 10 p.m. that night, I waved and said goodbye but not for long as we had already thought up at least 4 other excursions we needed to line up in the near future. I dropped into bed with a bigger smile on my face than I'd been able to muster for months, it was such a great day. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Friends

2009-06-11T22:37:00.014-05:00

Yes, usually I would post something I created on my blog, but today is special indeed. This gorgeous display of color is a gift from my friend Pam. It's a Laurel Burch bag with jeweled handles. It's big enough to wag my lunch to work, or take shopping, or use as my regular bag. It was a surprise, for no special reason, except the sharing spirit between good friends. The motif has special meaning for me and shows how connected and thoughtful she is ;-) Isn't it beautiful? Pam moved away and it is really important to stay in touch with those we love whether it is sending an email, a lovely handwritten note, a phone call, or a gift such as this when you see the "perfect thing" that makes you think of them alone. I appreciate it more than she will ever know and am proud to share it with you all. You'll know me if you see me, just look for the orange and purple dog on my arm. I will be smiling, you see these dogs bring out the best in me just like my friend Pam - reach out and touch a friend today, I can tell you it will mean an awful lot to them and none of us is guaranteed a tomorrow. Do it soon.

2009-06-11T22:20:00.006-05:00

Sunday Mornings

2009-06-07T18:36:00.032-05:00

I woke up this morning thinking what a difficult many months we have all had, friends and family alike. There have been financial hardships for sure, Mother's Day followed by my Mom's birthday are long and empty days without her, and we are fast approaching Father's Day which will hold an emptiness for me this first year because I cannot call him and hear him say he's "doing bout ninety backwards" which translated into "just fine". Today I prayed for a focus on all the simple special moments I will miss if I only pay attention to my empty place. So I noticed the soft sunshine filtering through the trees, and a huge woodpecker with a head completely covered in rich red who showed up at my feeder, while I was pulling these biscuits from the oven. A feeling of gratitude washed over me as I smelled them and applied the butter and jam.
Yes, it's the simple gifts that add up to feeling whole again. Sundays are a time of renewal, preparing for the week ahead - and thanking the Lord for protection, guidance, grace and forgiveness. I paid attention today to the silence, the sounds of nature, my breath, and knowing that every tomorrow brings surprising miracles all over the world as well as my own life. You just have to be paying attention. I have also received many gifts and blessing in recent weeks and need to give them the praise and appreciation they deserve. The world is loud and moves very fast, I only need to put one foot in front of the other and take it one day at a time, and decide to focus on the things I CAN change - a better healthier lifestyle, a better steward of my finances, relish in the joy of time spent with friends, and making a difference whenever I can.