Random Chaos

Cheerios for dinner...

2012-01-31T19:59:00.002-05:00

...what a fabulous idea. Not ordinary Cheerios, mind you, but amazingly good, slightly sweetened, still totally crunchy, cinnamon Cheerios. So yummy. They might just be a nightly thing.

It's been slightly crazy this week. I worked 40 hours in 4 days. Wow. Good money, no sleep, but yay for that! Tomorrow I'm starting up again at Pulsar helping them out and then heading straight to TRH.

I'm also very excited that tomorrow is February...that means that it's the start of LOAD 212. I'm so overly NOT prepared for the month, but I'm excited. I remember how it went last year and how much I got done, how much I learned and how much I surprised myself. I can't wait for that feeling again this year! I also hope to update daily like I did last year. *Keeping fingers crossed*

This past week I also got back into the swing of things with throwing darts. I'm not as bad as I remember and although my arm is a little sore, it's so fun to get back into it. I'm gonna be in a league on Thursday nights at Lino's and I can't wait for that too. It's the little things in life.

Just a quick little update on life things...and more soon.

So many things going on...

2012-01-26T18:55:00.002-05:00

...so many, many things.

The concert that we went this past weekend was a.maz.ing. Hunter Hayes, Sara Evans and Rascal Flatts at Nationwide Arena.

Hunter Hayes is just absolutely phenomenal for only being 20 years old. He plays so many instruments and he dances and he does just a little bit of everything, so seeing him again was awesome.

Sara Evans is incredible live. I don't know that I've ever seen her live before and I was really impressed. She played a bunch of songs that I love...incredible.

Rascal Flatts was ... interesting. Ordinarily I love seeing them perform but this time they did more talking than singing and it was a little weird. They were still good, don't get me wrong, but they were just...I don't know. We still heard all our favorite songs and overall we enjoyed the show.

I'm sending the pictures to walgreens.com to get printed this week. I can't believe that February LOAD starts next week! I'm pretty excited and yet still somewhat nervous about not having enough pictures and topics to scrap. Lain never fails me in terms of inspiration. :)

I've uploaded some of the cards that I've made to my Flickr account for a couple different challenges [Doodlebug, Hero Arts, ScrapHappy] and it's always refreshing to get positive feedback.

There's a bunch of sites that I still need to get back to, especially Young Crafters Unite, Ali Edwards, Jennifer McGuire, Pinterest...so many. I love that CHA starts super soon and I can see all the cool things that are being released. So many, many ideas.

I'm done promising to post pictures tomorrow because apparently I am no good at that promise. And...my camera cord was/is mia for a few and my internet does have some severe issues. It took me about a gazillion tries to upload my cards to Flickr and I don't have fabulous patience. But...soon, soon I will try to get them all uploaded, or at least linked up.

Today's my only day off for a week or so...I'm working doubles all weekend [one of which I volunteered for] and then we have our employee party on Monday. I also am in contact with Deb from Pulsar so I wanna make sure that I have plenty of time to work on the crafty things. It's date night though...Grey's, Jersey Shore & my dude. Yay!

More updates...soon.

Concert Numero Uno!

2012-01-21T09:41:00.002-05:00

In one of my last posts of 2011 I mentioned that everyday I think of things that I want to mention in that day's blogpost and then life gets in the way and I forget and sometimes even forget to post.

So it has been this past week. I still have the pictures that need to be loaded [because apparently my internet hates me and likes to be difficult] of the fabulous cupcakes I made for Jon's birthday [although I think they are in a back post that just hasn't actually posted, I'll check on that later], I've got the new cupcakes I made for a friend this past week and then I've got some cards and pages for various challenges that I've got going on.

I can't wait to post them! But I will. I'm getting ready to head to Columbus for the first concert of the year with my favorite. Yay! You can bet that I'll have pictures and uploads tomorrow.

[Insert pinky promise here]

Updates

2012-01-11T21:26:00.002-05:00

One update that's not really "new" is that I'm officially sick. Red icky eyes, raging cough, and burning in the ears. So I voluntarily gave up my shift at work and spent the day watching movies, scouring Pinterest, planning art ideas and lounging on the couch. Hopefully I get better quick...cause I can't take any more of this crap.

All the photos that I took of my marvelous cupcakes are on my phone and my charger is downstairs and to be honest, I'm too lazy to go get it to upload them. Plus, I'm interested in finding a cool way to alter and edit the pictures. There are so many cool apps for the iPhone...which I don't have...and so I want to find something fun. I know there are some cool features through Flickr, but I haven't played with any of them. So long story short...I'll post them tomorrow.

In my January 1 post, I mentioned wanting to do the 11-11 project. The concept was take 11 photos on the 11th day of the month and then scrapbook them. This morning I got to thinking about this project and what I might photograph. Then I spent the majority of the day of the couch. Jon had proposed earlier in the month when I talked about this idea the idea of doing the same project, only on the 12th day of the month since it's 2012. I dismissed it because I kinda have a thing against even numbers because of the symmetry issue, but now I'm kinda digging his idea. So...tomorrow will be the first day of 12-12-12. [Thanks Jon!]

One thing that I re-discovered today is how many cool art ideas are "out there" and how I will never have enough time to see-try-play-do them all. There are so many things...ahhh I love it. I love the crafting and creative communities that I'm a part of.

On that note...I joined in a little swap from the ScrapHappy community for Valentine's Day cards. Each person participating is making three cards and then we are sending them to the people we are assigned. I'm looking forward to using up some of my Valentine's Day stash...plus rediscovering some of the stuff that I have in said stash.

Perhaps the most exciting news of the past two days is what I got for Jon for his birthday...[probably just as exciting for me as for him] are tickets to see Rascal Flatts, Sara Evans and Hunter Hayes in a little over a week in Columbus. It's the first show of the year...and I'm so pumped! We're gonna try and see if we can manage to see a country show every month this year. So far we've got January, February, March, July and August lined up. We're just waiting for the MegaTicket to be announced. Stay tuned.

For now...I think I'll watch some more pointless television/movies and lay low. Tomorrow = pictures, I swear.

Happy Birthday to my favorite!

2012-01-10T21:07:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite...I hope 32 is a great year for you Jon! Love you babe!

More details, photos and excitement to come after we celebrate!

alaaaBAMA!

2012-01-09T22:31:00.002-05:00

Let me just say that for the record, I love that Alabama is winning the BCS Title game against LSU right now. :)

Let me also say that I'd really like my voice to come back because I'd really like to be able to go back to work and make some money since once again tonight, they sent me home.

I was able to use my time [off] wisely and I made the cupcakes for Jon's birthday [tomorrow] and they look fantabulous. I haven't tried one yet, but I plan to post the recipe and photos tomorrow.

For now, I'm off to catch the second half of the game...and [silently] cheer!

Squeaker

2012-01-08T21:51:00.002-05:00

So Friday night I didn't work and I slept most of the evening which led me to feel a lot better yesterday. I did a double, made a ton of cash and felt close to decent.

I woke up today and you might think I'm a squeak toy for dogs. I have NO voice. None. Gone. I showed up to work and my kitchen boss called me "Squeaker" and they sent me home. Another day where I can't make any money. The sad thing is that I was really in the mood to work. The good news is that while I was at work I managed to pick up three shifts for next week so hopefully that'll help makeup for Friday night and missing today.

So since I've been home all afternoon I've watched some FRIENDS on dvd, I made a card and I took a nap. I don't feel much better and I still have no voice, even though I haven't talked to anyone. Hopefully it comes back before work tomorrow...keeping my fingers crossed.

I also took down my Christmas decorations today...[since I'm so already ready for Valentine's Day!] and that was surprisingly hard for me. I did realize that this is the last year that Matt and I will decorate together. While I'm ready [on so many levels] to move on, it's still hard. We divided up a lot of the mutual decorations and that was just one more step in making it "real" and while it sucks...I'm still grateful for the fact that we are still such good friends. It's hit or miss I think. Stay tuned for more details on my emotional status.

Fun news for the day is that I got mail in the form of Lawn Fawn stamps! So fun! I can't wait to create some new artistic masterpieces. Stay tuned for those too.

For now...I'm back to being a bum and trying to get over the squeaking.

Sleep...would/could be good

2012-01-06T23:48:00.003-05:00

Sleep could be a really good thing...if I could get some. I just can't fall asleep and/or stay asleep. I've been feeling kinda sick recently, sorta like I did last year around this time when I got the chicken pox. I ended up being the "extra" at work which meant I didn't have to work so I've been relaxing all night. I'm heading to bed here in a few. I did do a great amount of creating, so I'm happy with that.

Here is a card that I made that not only follows the sketch from ScrapHappy, but also the color scheme from Hero Arts.

I'm not 100% happy with it, but it's a start. I also made a layout that I love, but it's 12x12 and I didn't have the patience to scan and stitch it...so I took a picture of it and it's below. The black around the outside is not part of the layout and the circle in the middle at the top is merely a magnet holding it onto the black board.

This follows the Doodlebug sketch challenge for January and uses a bunch of their new products as well. I just really like the way it turned out. The journaling reads :

stuck like glue

..."you do that thing that makes me laugh"...

so it was on this day at breakfast when you

rocked my sunglasses to try and make me smile.

or the first time you tilted your hat, stuck

out your tongue & did the "happy dance."

You ALWAYS know how to make me laugh.

Like Sugarland sings, "you & me baby, we're

stuck like glue" ... I love being with you, I

just love you! So I'll stick with you, in

good times & bad...cause we can get

through anything as long as we stick with

eachother! Just keep making me laugh!

photo: summer 2010 journaling: 2012

Yep...he's a keeper.

I've got a long day at work tomorrow, [doing a double] so I'm headed to bed. Hopefully more creativity and fun soon.

Pink & Red & Hearts all over

2012-01-05T18:48:00.002-05:00

So today I went on a little adventure to Archiver's, JoAnns, Michael's & Hobby Lobby. I used a couple gift cards that I got for Christmas and I stocked up on a boatload of Valentine's Day supplies. I can't wait to get creating!

I got papers from Doodlebug which are super cute and I'm already planning the "Be Mine" banner that I want to make to hang in my big front window [facing in]. I was inspired by this. So easy...and with my fancy schmancy Silhouette and new Cameo? Ah...it's gonna be awesome. I'm so in the Valentine's mood...and I have no idea why!

I got a new set of stamps from Ali Edwards which are going to be great as well, not only for personal use, but also for some cards to post on Etsy. You can see them here. I'm attempting to post a few new things each week on Etsy and Valentine themed products are hottt right now.

I also hit the Valentine's stamp jackpot with Studio G stamps and they were only $1.00! So many, many options with hearts and love-filled words and goodness. Yay!

I also got a new embossing folder for my Big Shot [or my Mom's Big Shot to be honest] that is a bunch of hearts and it's going to make an excellent background. This will all sound and look so much better when you can see the end results. Tomorrow should be a wonderful crafting day!

On a completely different and non crafty note...Jon got me the complete series of FRIENDS on DVD and I'm loving watching the episodes while hanging out in the office. I'm already on disc 3...and there are nearly 40 dvds. Such a great gift.

My most recent guilty pleasure is watching Jersey Shore [a complete and total train wreck of bad television] and it starts back up tonight, so I'm joining some friends to watch the premier. So fun...and horrible at the same time.

Tomorrow's agenda before working at the restaurant....creating! I can't wait!

Note to self...

2012-01-04T22:50:00.002-05:00

This is the layout that I made using a sketch from ScrapHappy for January. I'm a big fan of the sketch and I plan on using it for some cards as well as pages. I swiped the "note to self" from a friend's blog and I know that they swiped it from Pinterest. Love. I also uploaded it to Flickr and you can see it here.

I also made a couple cards today but wasn't able to scan them in, I think I'll try that tomorrow. For one reason or another, all the programs on my computer were giving me trouble today. I think Mac just needs a nice nap.

Getting back in the creating routine feels so good. I found three different challenges online for the month of January and I can't wait to create and submit them. Some are just for fun but for others there are some serious prizes up for grabs. I love it.

More details and pictures in the morning.

Go Blue!

2012-01-03T20:33:00.002-05:00

Michigan is playing in the Sugar Bowl and it started a few minutes ago.

I just got home from work and I'm going to go out to watch it with some friends.

It was a great night at work and a productive day art-wise, but I'll update more on that later.

Go BLUE!!!

A short post is better than no post.

Day 2

2012-01-02T21:23:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!

Today was a crazy day...I went to work, went to Jon's, went back to work and then back home! It was the last day of winter break for most of the schools around here and so we were pretty slow at the restaurant. I was supposed to be a double today but there were entirely too many servers on for the morning shift so that's why I got to take a break.

The other news for today? Apparently it's winter. It started to snow and it's actually sticking to the ground. We're on "blizzard watch" which just makes me laugh because it's Cleveland. By Friday it's supposed to be 50*. We'll see what happens...for now I'll just wear my favorite winter hat, Mr. Giraffe. [Photos to be posted eventually!]

I'm already thinking about what kind of special fun dessert I can make next week for Jon's birthday. I'm totally treating it as if we're in elementary school and get to take a snack to celebrate getting older. We are both working, so why not take a little sugary sweet to share with our friends? So far I'm thinking about Caramel Frappucinno Cupcakes inspired by these, but the jury is still out. I just love Pinterest for amazing recipe ideas.

I'm all about spending some quality time on myself this year...and so I'm going to start by playing with some supplies to highlight my artistic goals for the year. I can't wait to make my yearly layout. It's cool to see how far I've come at the end of the year. Using last year's numbers I might even make an end of the year spread to compliment the goals I had last January. We'll see.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T21:59:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

I can hardly believe it's already 2012. The last year passed in a blur. The colors of my life all blended together like a kaleidoscope...I'm hoping to have some clarity this year...and single color moments.

Work yesterday was crazy busy, but we ended up closing an hour early which enabled me to actually get ready to go out for a little New Years celebration. Jon and I went to Lino's to ring in the new year and were joined by our friend Mike and his sister. A few other randoms showed up as well and it was nice to just chill out for a bit. We watched the Red Bull New Year Challenge [where these crazy people do amazing stunts] and watched the ball drop with Dick Clark and kissed at midnight...[my favorite part!]

Today we went to the Browns/Steelers game downtown. I don't mind cold and I can handle snow...but rain really makes for a cold, wet, long day. It drizzled on and off and was almost tolerable...until the temperature dropped from the mid forties into the lower twenties. It was cold. [And thanks to my father whose advice I did follow and yes, I wore shoes instead of flip flops.] The game was great from both sides and was actually pretty close in score which is almost unheard of. Jon got three tickets so our friend Warthog went with us, and our seats were in the upper dog-pound. We even had passes into Legends, which is the members-only bar/club, so we watched the fourth quarter from the warmth inside [that was a bonus!]

Like I mentioned in yesterday's post, my One Little Word for 2012 is Time. I'm really looking forward to taking Ali's year-long class and learning what one little word can have in store for me. I got the first email today and plan on diving into that when I'm done here. One little word is one big challenge that I have for myself in terms of my artistic goals for the year. Here are a few more:

: 208 blog posts [4 per week]

: 182 layouts [1 every other day]

: 10 cards a month [at least 5 of the 10 mailed out via snail mail]

: post something on Etsy at least once a week

: participate in one challenge every month [via website, magazine or blog]

: take more photographs

: 11 on 11 [11 photos on the 11th day of the month...and make a layout]

: submit something every month

: start [and keep up-to-date] a creative blog

Some are very similar to last year, but I'm hoping to actually complete them this year. Others have been added as my time and interests have changed and some I think will just challenge me. Regardless, I'm really looking forward to them. I also plan to update the counts at the end of each month to track my progress. Wish me luck.

In addition to artistic goals, I suppose you could say I've got some resolutions for the other areas of my life as well...

: get healthy or healthier ... eating better and eating less ... moving more

: save more and use what I have on hand

: be positive...be happy...be grateful...EVERYDAY

: create everyday

...and my favorite:

be better today than you were yesterday

That's so my mantra for this year. I love it. It's going to be a great year...I have a feeling...and time will tell.

31 December 2011

2011-12-31T10:00:00.002-05:00

So clearly this past month didn't go exactly as planned.

Two posts this month instead of the pre-planned 31.

December Daily? Not entirely completed...to say the least.

Holiday cards? DID in fact get sent out [on the 10th].

Pictures updated? Yeah...not so much.

Super crazy busy month that was completely awesome? YES.

There have been so many days this month when I've started composing my blogpost in my head, saying "oh, I have to remember to include this..." and then I get pigeonish and start working on something else and another day passes.

This will change in 2012.

1 December 2011

2011-12-01T19:15:00.002-05:00

The year is flying by and I can hardly believe it's the last month of the year! Where has the year gone, seriously?

Today I ran around and got some errands done, I've been crazy busy working [both at TRH and at Pulsar...so many details to post!] and I was fortunate enough to spend some time finishing decorating the tree, purchasing a gift for someone, deciding on the color scheme of my holiday cards and I even baked some cookies.

It's also day one of my Daily December. This year [as in year's past], I'm planning on combining Shimelle's Journal Your Christmas with Ali Edwards' December Daily. I made my own template and with the help of my printer, my Silhouette, and my stash of holiday papers, ribbons, stickers and embellishments, I plan on making it all the way through the month. I'm very excited about it.

For now, I'm off for some dinner and some down time playing Wii. [Like I said earlier, so many details to post and I'm hoping for that tomorrow...and at the latest, Saturday.] I'm hoping to post everyday [don't laugh, I'm serious!]

I want to celebrate and embrace everyday of this month...of what is left of this year.

Okay...sooooo

2011-11-11T16:49:00.002-05:00

...apparently I deleted the post the other night. So, details now.

The weekend at the Bertram with friends was completely and fantastically amazing. I got a boatload of things completed...including 30 6x6 pages, the foundation of my December Daily book and 83 cards. I got about 7 hours of sleep for the entire weekend...but it was so worth it. I got to catch up with dear friends that I don't get to see nearly enough. It was awesome. Can't wait until next year. Thank you Trish for all your amazing-ness.

And Pinterest...oh my. Completely and totally hooked. I held out for so long. For those of you who might not know...it's pretty much one website that serves as a Favorites place. You can "pin" things - anything and come back to it later. There are amazing things in this world and I'm finding so many incredible things. For example...I can't wait to make these, this makes me swoon, this would perfectly compliment my happy toes, if I ever have kids I want to try this, and this is a fantabulous idea for my wedding day...if that ever happens. Haha. Completely addicted. I'm so glad I have awesome friends who are in it and share my obsession as well.

Speaking of awesome friends...I have this one friend who has pretty much rocked my world since the day I met her. She's helped me out in so many situations and with creative ideas and I'd be lost without her. While at the Bertram, we got to talking and she did me the amazing favor of passing my name onto some other creative people. On Monday, I got an email from the Creative Director at Pulsar Products asking me to meet with her. On Tuesday I met with her and the team and was able to talk out some details. Once my craft show is over, I'm going to be working there a couple days a week/month helping make samples for HSN. It's the most amazing opportunity and I can't thank Laina enough. So excited and happy.

Tonight I have date night and I'm excited for that too. More details soon...

[and pictures soon too...because my computer is being stupid.]

I think I'm ...

2011-11-09T16:46:00.002-05:00

... finally calming down after drinking 4 large cans of Rockstar in a 27 hour period this past weekend.

... finally caught up on the sleep I lost this past weekend.

... completely addicted to Pinterest. [Check that, I know I'm addicted, no thinking about it.]

... so excited, inspired and dedicated to the crazy amount of good things I have in store for the show next week.

... completely and totally blessed to have some amazing people in my life.

... in need of a serious back-cracking session.

... so a-d-d that this might not make any sense right now.

I had a few minutes so I thought I'd tease with some vague descriptions and recaps of the past few days. I'll come back tonight after work and hopefully make some more sense. And...show some pictures.

the start of crafty goodness

2011-11-02T22:51:00.003-04:00

So as I started to mention yesterday, I'm grateful.

My friend Felicia posted something on Facebook that really got me thinking and inspired me to create a month-long project. For the 25 days prior to Thanksgiving, she is posting something that she is thankful for.

I decided to take that idea, tweak it, and run with it. The result? A month-long gratitude journal, totally and completely made from scratch, by me.

Ta-da!

I found a new favorite patterned paper featuring warm, autumn colors in a smooth plaid, covered some chipboard I cut to size, adhered some fun letter stickers and used the Cinch to punch holes in acetate bags [actually meant for just storing photographs] to hold my pages. [I tend to do this kind of do it yourself project when I can't find what I'm looking for. Ideally I wanted a 4x6 album so that I could take up half with journaling and then adhere a 2x3 photo next to it.] I created a template and printed the same paragraph style on each of the pages, 30 in all [one for each day in November]. I added a definition of grateful and until the end of the month when I Cinch the book together, these binder rings will hold everything in place. If I don't print the photo everyday, I'm okay with it. I just want to make sure that I journal everyday. When all the photos are added, I'll upload the individual pages and post them to Flickr.

One of my hopes in doing this is that it'll give me good practice for the everyday mentality that comes with creativity. This way, when December rolls around, I'll be set to participate in [and complete!] December Daily. I'm already starting to make that book as well and I plan to complete the preparation stages this weekend at the Bertram.

If I haven't mentioned before, I'm attending a weekend-long scrapbooking retreat with lots of people that I met through Archiver's. I was never able to attend while I was working there, so I'm really jazzed about it. I'm rooming with Felicia and her sister and I plan to get lots done...not only for me, but also for the upcoming craft show as well!

And on that note...I'm off to pack a few things. Tomorrow will be spent totally preparing and making sure I am ready to go. I've already got butterflies!

Happy Wednesday. :)

I'm grateful...

2011-11-01T22:39:00.002-04:00

...for so many things. This month I will document them. The big things. The small things. The things I forget and overlook. All things I'm grateful for.

I'm going to make a mini album and it's going to be super cute. I'll post pictures tomorrow of what I've got so far...

It's going to be a month long project to get me ready for my December Daily. I sorta fell off the wagon of LOAD during October, not because of lack of ideas or supplies, or even time. I fell off the wagon because I ran out of pictures. Who says that? Does that?

Seriously.

Apparently I forgot how to type in the month of October as well. I can't believe I only had three posts. That for sure will change for the better in November.

So many details to give...so much to update.

But not right now...right now it's grateful time.

Happy November.

I've been tagged!

2011-10-06T12:47:00.003-04:00

My friend Pam tagged me on her blog. Thanks lady!

The goal is to tell 10 things about yourself. While her blog is mostly crafty goodness, mine is all over the place...a sort of random chaos that really does define my life...but I'll try and go for the ten things.

1 : I've worn an apron in every job I've ever had [waitress, scrapbook instructor and manager, back to waitress/bartender]

2 : I've never dyed my hair...or had it cut in a salon. I've debated it...but I just can't bring myself to actually do either one.

3 : I use Coconut Lime Verbena lotion every single day. Multiple times. It makes me feel like I'm on an island.

4 : Listening to country music puts me in my happy place. Despite the bad rap it often gets for being negative...there are some amazing lyrics out there that can always make me smile. Besides, country concerts with awesome friends, lots of cold refreshing beverages and warm summer sun always make for an incredible time.

5 : I hate [hate] taking my contacts out at night. I'm just lazy, I'd rather fall asleep and never take them out. However, after going to the eye doctor in late September, I can say that I have successfully taken them out every night in October [gimme a break, I know it's only six days in]. I'd also like to point out that if I had glasses with a current prescription, I would probably despise taking my contacts out less. [I'm working on it!]

6 : I want to learn how to play the drums. I have next to zero rhythm, but I think I could pull it off...and, I think I could totally rock being in a rock band.

7 : I have a small obsession with Chipotle's fresh tomato salsa...as in, I could eat it by the spoonful every day. I have always loved tomatoes, [I can remember eating them straight from my Grandma's garden when I was little] but it is out of this world amazingly good. Ahhh.

8 : My favorite memory from my childhood is being in a wooden box with a bunch of Dalmatian puppies. It was the day I got to pick out my family's dog and there were tiny pups jumping and climbing all over me. Bliss.

9 : I think good old-fashioned, hand written notes are awesome. I love sending and receiving them. It makes my soul happy to know that it took longer than pushing 'send' on a text or email and that either I, or the sender took time to make a special effort.

10 : I love being creative everyday. Sketching out ideas, cutting up paper, stamping a sentiment, reading online blogs and stealing new ideas, taking photos...I love it all. It completes me. Pretty sure I'd be lost without this outlet. I love the friends I've met through the stores, the crops, the online galleries. I love knowing there are people out there who "get" me in the sense of straight lines, imperfectly perfect photos, and stripes, plaids and polka dots all on one project. I love the comments, the feedback and the suggestions. It's a great thing.

Perhaps now you'll know a thing or two about me that you didn't know before. This was fun, thanks Pam! And for the person I'll tag next ... an amazing paper and digital scrapper I've "met" through LOAD. Her name is Christie and her pages about her darling little girl inspire me nearly everyday! Here's her blog...check her out! And thanks for playing along!

Speaking of LOAD, here's the last few days of posts over on Flickr. Wednesday and today, Thursday. Here's today's hidden journaling as well.

I'm still having so much fun with this! Also on the agenda for later today...some serious Halloween goodness and maybe some fun mini cards featuring this stamp set!

Thanks for stopping by!

Creative Juices are back!

2011-10-04T22:09:00.002-04:00

Well...it's just a Tuesday, and a pretty ordinary one at that.

This morning I went and got my nails done before running some errands.

I came home and got to work on my LOAD. I love the way it turned out! I used my new felt and die cut and I'm so excited to start making cards with these roses...so stinkin' cute. You can see today's page here and here is yesterday's.

Then I went to work...pretty slow night so that kinda bummed me out, but oh well.

Now? Time for more creating and catching up on some shows! :)

Hello October ...

2011-10-02T19:36:00.006-04:00

...sorry I missed the remainder of September. But...I'm so excited for October!

I've been super busy...mainly purchasing fun supplies online! In my last post I mentioned that I was taking an online class with Jennifer McGuire and it led me to some pretty awesome discoveries...including things that I just had.to.have.

Show & Tell is always fun...so here we go!

These are a new[er] type of embellishment from Doodlebug...they are 3D and complete with googly eyes! I can't wait to put them on a card for someone fun!

A selection of Halloween themed papers from Doodlebug. Little monsters [to match the above embellishments], stripes and quotes, stars, polka dots and even some glittery spidey webs. Cards...pages...mini books...so many options!

Super fun Jillibean Papers! Double-sided goodness in bright colors with so many options! Letters and numbers...quote-like paper [who wouldn't love that?!?], mini type writers with messages and journaling cards meant to be cut apart. I hadn't been a huge fan of Jillibean in the past...but I can't wait to start using these papers!

I'm a stamp freak...this isn't new news. These Ali Edwards stamps from Technique Tuesday are pretty darn awesome. They have excellent sentiments in a quirky handwritten font and will be so versatile for cards.

Another amazing company that I've recently been introduced to...Lawn Fawn. Their stamps are super, super cute and great quality. I can't wait to make some holiday cards with these stamps...maybe some paper piecing or coloring with colored pencils.

More Lawn Fawn and Technique Tuesday...so excited. I don't even have words...but that's why I have stamps!

Papertrey Ink...an Ohio based company with incredible supplies. Stamps, papers, inks, and a bunch of other goodness. These stamps can be seen in better detail here, here and here.

Another awesome thing that I discovered in Jennifer's online class were these super adorable felt flowers made using a die cut. Here are the die cuts...in three sizes.

Those die cuts will be phenomenal with this amazing felt from Papertrey Ink! Ahhh...I just wanted to buy them all. It's designed not to fray when you cut it...and it truly is super soft. I got a bunch of colors so I can make flowers and leaves.

From Archiver's last week, I stopped to pick up some fun card making accessories from Doodlebug. Sticker sentiments and 3D guys. Yay for fun colors. :)

These letter stickers from American Crafts are such a fun font...and they are orange and foamy and so fun. They'll be great for fall themed projects.

More Halloween fun from Doodlebug...stickers and buttons. I'm pretty sure I have a thing for buttons and I love these; the shapes, the colors and the textures!

Embossing folders from Sizzix and Tim Holtz? Okaaay! These are going to be fantabulous on my projects. I can't wait to ink them up and use them with stamps and fun papers!

Another fun idea from Jennifer's class was to use this diecut instead of heart shapes on the canvas we designed. And this paper? It's Kraft core, so when it gets embossed and then sanded...it will be kraft in the middle. Check out the awesome card created with it:

[]

6x6 Paper pads? Have we met? I adore them. These two are from We R Memory Keepers and Echo Park. They are fantastic for making cards because the patterns are on a smaller scale.

Some 12 x 12 paper from We R Memory Keepers...perfect for fall. I love the rich colors and fun patterns.

12 x 12 patterned papers from Doodlebug. This is actually their Christmas line, and I love the non traditional color palette.

I know, I know, it's only October...but Christmas is right around the corner and how fun will this be on some cards? Maybe match it up with some Kraft paper? Okay!

From Teresa Collins, more Christmas goodness in the form of 12 x 12 paper.

And another favorite from Echo Park : a 6 x 6 mini pad in some of my favorite patterns; dots and stripes! Their holiday color scheme is awesome...I'm so excited!

So would you agree that I've stocked up on some awesomeness? I have so many ideas, I can't wait to start creating!

I've been in a pretty decent groove recently. I've added a handful of cards to my Etsy Shop, I've jotted down ideas and sketches for upcoming projects and I've started another month of LOAD [Layout A Day]. This is more of an informal meeting due to some overlap of other projects, but there's still a daily prompt and challenge. Here are days one and two for the month so far on my Flickr site.

I also took a visit to the eye doctor last week and was finally able to get some new contacts. My prescription hasn't changed...but I'd been wearing my last pair of contacts for entirely too long. I also plan on getting a new pair of glasses or two as well...I think I'd wear them more often if I could see. Apparently the pair I currently have [that I got before I went to college] is from three prescriptions ago! So that's in the plan for the near future.

I also had dinner with some of my lovelies from Archiver's at Fatheads in North Olmsted last week. It was great to catch up with them, even if they did ambush me! I had a really good soup for dinner : Chicken Parm! It was similar to a French Onion and it definitely made me want to try and make my own! I can't wait to see those girls again soon. I miss seeing them everyday...hearing their advice and sharing their laughter.

I've been working like crazy, this is nothing new. [Surprise when I got to TRH today, I was the "extra" so that I could elect not to work. Considering that my next day off is Friday, October 29, I decided to come back home!] Between the two jobs, I am literally working seven days a week. So far, I don't really mind. I just know that if I want a day off, I have to request it pretty far in advance. Such is the case for the 29th.

I have a date. At the House of Blues Cleveland...to see this kid. I've already downloaded his first four songs and his complete CD comes out in 9 days. I cannot wait. I'm completely enamored with him. It'll be a great day for sure.

For now...I'm off to play a little more in the office. I might join some friends a little later for an adult beverage and game of golden tee...but I'm not sure!

That's the update for all that's been going on...for sure it won't be another month until I update again. Thanks for checking in!

Inspiration Showcase Day 1

2011-09-12T23:15:00.002-04:00

A week or two ago, I signed up for an online class sponsored mainly by the amazing Jennifer McGuire. It's called Inspiration Showcase and it's designed to teach a variety of techniques using supplies already on hand while making a canvas thriving with inspiration for future projects.

Today was day one and on top of a 13 page [!!!] pdf file, I got a 20 minute video showcasing a variety of techniques. I. Am. In. Love.

Some of the techniques I was already familiar with, but some were a little new. I didn't make any cards using the techniques, but I did get started on the elements for my canvas. The incredible Kerri Bradford was nice enough to include free downloadable shapes [the heart in this case] that I was able to cut using my Silhouette.

I followed Jennifer's examples and here's what I came up with:

Heart 1: Basic resist. I didn't have [couldn't find in my stash to be honest] glossy paper at the moment, so I used plain white cardstock, clear embossing powder, stamps, Versamark and Distress Ink.

Heart 2: Paint resist. I didn't have any of the pearlescent paint that Jennifer used, so I substituted white. Then I blended Barn Door and Walnut Stain inks over top. Love the way this turns out!

Heart 3: Trapped Embossed Resist. This is a new[er] technique for me and I'm so in love with it. It's really pretty interesting, the way it works. Stamp a text background, stamp an image with a lot of background space, emboss with clear powder and then cover the outside areas with bright color! Definitely one of my favorites! I think I want to put a button in the middle [very similar to Jennifer's example].

Heart 4: Canvas resist. Not going to lie...so far, not a huge fan of this one. Jennifer said that it would be ugly at first, until it dried, but mine never ended up looking decent. I stamped an image on Sticky Back canvas, embossed with white powder, then I slathered on Wild Honey Distress Ink. I sprayed it with a Perfect Pearl mixture...but it didn't lighten the color at all. I'm not a fan of how "muddy" it looks. I'll have to try again.

Heart 5: Kisses resist. This is a fun one. It'll be great on cards...gonna try that tomorrow I believe. I used some of Tim Holtz's reverse stamps for the numbers and stamped them directly on the background stamp. Then I embossed with clear powder and blended in some shades of green distress inks. This one was originally done on glossy paper as well, but since I couldn't find mine, I just settled for plain white cardstock.

In addition to the online class, I've been working a lot...at both jobs. I've sold some more on Etsy and am planning on totally revamping that website, along with an art related blog. I've cleaned up my space significantly as well as made invitations for a friend's son's first birthday.

For now...I'm off to finish watching a movie before some sleeps. I've got the dentist tomorrow and then a great lunch date. ♥ Then...day 2 of Inspiration Showcase! [Aaand more work.]

I just wanna say...

2011-09-07T22:16:00.003-04:00

...Happy Anniversary to my parents.

If I know what love is, it's because of you two.

I know I don't often say it, but thank you. Thank you for loving us 3 and loving each other. For raising us to be kind to one another, to have respect for one another, to have patience with each other.

You've set a fine example of how a relationship should work. It takes teamwork, support, patience, understanding and a whole hell of a lot of love. [It takes more than that...but those are the things that stick out to me.]

I hope you two had a fabulous day, did something fun and enjoyed one another's company.

Love you both...to the moon and back.

Blessings in disguise...

2011-09-06T21:15:00.002-04:00

...or so I'll tell myself.

It's a random Tuesday night. It's before 10 p.m. and I'm home from work...and I've been home for nearly an hour.

I'm all alone in my house. As in, by myself. No plans in sight. No friends to hang out with. Nobody to talk to. Alone.

I'm not sure I'm okay with this...it's a very uncomfortable thing for me. I don't generally like to be alone...I tend to think too much.

However...I'm telling myself it's a blessing in disguise. Perhaps I'll create, maybe watch a favorite movie. Maybe I'll listen to my music and dwell on things I can't change. Maybe I'll get to bed early. Not sure yet...still don't know how to handle this very unusual situation.

The past few days have been pretty busy...I've been working every day. TRH was crazy busy both Sunday & Monday...in fact my Labor Day plans totally fell through due to being at work until nearly 7 [I was only scheduled until 4]. However, I did get to enjoy a great meal with Jon so that was nice.

I've adapted the card I made as a sample for Brandy and have intentions of finishing up the invitations for Mason's birthday. She wants them by next Monday, so I've got some work in front of me! It should be fun, plus it gives me a chance to play with my Silhouette.

Hero Arts has great challenges this month...including using this color palette:

It is awesome and I love it! It totally speaks fall and I have a couple ideas in mind, both for cards and for a scrapbook page.

Speaking of fall, who knew it would arrive so quickly? While I love that it's here...I'm a little bummed that Summer left so fast...it didn't even say goodbye. So sad. Lots to look forward to though...college football [which I'm pretty sure was invented to make me happy], NFL football, cooler temperatures, crispy autumn leaves changing colors and falling, scrapbook retreats, homemade apple pie, and so much more. I love fall/autumn.

Just thinking about it has already inspired me! Time to fold some laundry, crank some tunes and get creating!

More details and posted projects soon!

Oh! And for those who may be wondering...Doodlebug hasn't posted anything about their Design Team. My hopes fell quite a bit though, especially after seeing their projects for ScrapFest. I had no idea they made a mini album out of their cards [the same way I did for my zoo book] and I'm deeply afraid that they'll think I "stole" the idea...so much for original creativity. Oh well...at least I tried...and I got some super cute cards, a great mini book and a layout that I LOVE out of the challenge. However, whenever they do release the info on who got chosen, I'll post a link. I know there was some fantastic artwork out there!

For now...it's still early, still before ten and I'm bout to get busy...with a little help from the Captain. :) Maybe this really is a blessing in disguise.

Hello September...

2011-09-01T01:01:00.002-04:00

...where did you come from?

Talk about busy! I'm working like crazy, I just signed up for an online class [totally for fun, yet I'm serious about it], I joined a new online network for life and I made a purchase of some new scrappy goodness from 2Peas. That's how my month has started!

Oh! And I managed to get my unread emails down from over 300 to under 60. I figure that is a pretty awesome thing in and of itself.

I'm helping a friend with some invitations for her son's first birthday and here's a draft of a sample I made...

The saying on the front is going to be a little different and it's going to be landscape instead of portrait, but I had some fun playing with my Silhouette [finally!] to make it. And who doesn't love googly eyes? Plus, I am really happy that I can help out a friend!

Today is the kickoff of COLLEGE GAMEDAY! Ohhh, so exciting. I love this time of year. The start of fall, warm colors, sweater weather, and college football. It's going to be a great day...week...season.

One of the things that I've been struggling with is finding time to catch up on all the awesome things online while still being productive with my time. It's so hard when there's so many incredible things to investigate.

There's this awesome new line from Echo Park...I can't wait to get my hands on it!

This entire concept:

I just ordered some of these from 2Peas:

Once again, who can resist googly eyes? A.dor.able.

I've got a few hours before I have to be at work. It's all football and all creating up until then. :)

First day back...

2011-08-23T12:28:00.003-04:00

Fresh new shirt.

Brand new dark blue jeans.

New croc shoes [without holes].

So I didn't go back to school, but yesterday was my first day back in a familiar environment. Good old Texas Roadhouse. I was scheduled to be training...but it didn't last long. I think I'm onto serving on my own tonight. It all came back pretty quickly. I was reminded of why I like this job...it's easy for me and I'm pretty good at it. Plus, some pretty cool people work there and that makes it fun.

I think it'll be a good gig - working at both TRH & Captain's and then being able to focus on art things during the day. I've struggled a little bit with finding a routine, but I think I'm starting to figure things out. Currently Post-It notes are on my list of favorite things...and I have them everywhere! Bright and colorful and filled with lists of things to work on, things to make and things to look into.

I keep looking at the bookshelf in the 'other room' and I see so many books that I've really enjoyed reading; the Harry Potter series [however juvenile that may seem], A Million Little Pieces [one that always makes me re-evaluate my life and decisions], Craft and Scrappy idea books. I want to re-read everything, I've always loved reading. And then I think about all there is out there on the Internet, on designer and fancy blogs, on websites and online magazines. So many options and not enough time! That's another thing I'm trying to figure out in terms of a daily agenda. I'll let you know how it works out.

I've also updated Flickr with some more pages from the Big Picture Classes workshop I'm taking part in, "Words to live by". It's been a pretty fun mini album to work on...and it's definitely making me think. I think the best way for me to describe it is a compilation of 12 people and their Epiphany star words. If you know me...that will make sense.

For now, I've gotta get back from my 'lunch break' and get to work! I've still got four or five things on my post-it note to-do list. More details soon.

Doodlebug Submissions

2011-08-17T14:21:00.004-04:00

My submissions for the Doodlebug Design Team : a layout, 2 cards & a mini album.

[You should be able to click on any of the images to open in a new window in a larger size.]

Layout

Size 6" x 12"

*Note* : The brown around the layout is not part of the actual layout. It is merely so one can see where the white begins and ends.

Above photo: Journaling reads: "we live a sweet life" & "k&j"

Supplies Used:

Buttons, Cardstock, Cardstock Stickers, Patterned Paper, Ribbon, Rub-on Letters : Doodlebug

Cardstock: Bazzill

Adhesive: Glue Dots, Scotch

Pen: Staedtler

Circle Punch: Fiskars

Card number one: a playful miss you card.

Above photo: Matching envelope with card.

Above photo: Front of Card.

Above photo: Detail of the inside of the card, bottom right corner.

Above photo: Detail of the front of the card.

Supplies Used:

Cardstock, Cardstock Stickers, Rub-on Letters, Patterned Paper, Square Grid Card : Doodlebug

Circle Punch: Fiskars

Adhesive: Scotch, Scrapbook Adhesives

Corner Rounder: We R Memory Keepers

Ink: Ink It Up!

Doodlebug Submissions

2011-08-17T11:27:00.009-04:00

Card number two: a fun and cheerful thank you.

Above photo: Matching envelope with card.

Above photo: Front of Card.

Above photo: Detail of right side of the card, including the button.

Above photo: Detail of the left side of the card; sentiment and stitching.

Supplies Used:

Button, Cardstock, Cardstock Stickers, Patterned Paper, Rub-on Letters, A2 Stripe Card & Envelope : Doodlebug

Twine: My Mind's Eye

Pen [for stitching]: Staedtler

Adhesive: Glue Dots, Scotch

Mini Album : Zoo Adventures

I created this mini album making the pages out of Doodlebug A2 Cards in the Stripe and Polka Dot patterns. I adhered the cards together and then bound them together using the Cinch from We R Memory Keepers.

Above photo: Front cover of the mini album.

Above photo: Back cover of the mini album.

Above photo: Detail view of how the pages line up. Due to the nature of the shaped edges, you can see additional pages besides just the one you are directly looking at.

Above photo: The mini album spread out; looking down at the pages.

Above photo: The mini album spread out; looking in at the pages.

Following are the indivdual pages of the book, scanned and photographed before the mini book was assembled.

Above photo: The cover of the mini album.

Above photo: Journaling reads: "One bright, sunshine filled day, Jon & I decided to go to the zoo! I was so excited...I'm pretty sure he had no idea what we were in for. Jon was all about seeing the snakes and reptiles- me- I wanted to see the sea lions and aquatic exhibits. We spent ALL afternoon exploring & visiting every inch of the zoo! What a wonderful adventure we shared! 2011"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "These giraffes were so adorable! They started out in a little field several hundred feet away. The longer we stood & watched, the closer they came. They shared a little snack of some grass & green leaves! :)"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "This koala bear was so sleepy! He hung out in this tree and barely opened his eyes. One of my favorite things at the zoo is the little information table at each exhibit. I love learning about the animals!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "I always thought flamingos stood on one leg-but these guys proved me wrong! I love how PINK they are! They are such gentle animals, I love watching them in the water & grass. So cute!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "These tiger cubs were having so much fun splashing & playing in the water. Even though they were just babies, they were HUGE! I can't imagine being close to one of these big guys, but they were certainly fun to look at! This was one of my favorite spots on our little zoo adventure!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "Yikes! Stripes! ZEBRAS! This picture was definitely zoomed in! The little zebras were so clustered in a bunch it was hard to tell where one began & one ended! I love it!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "Gorilla guys...busy fighting over bananas! The guy in the middle won. Such quiet animals-so smart & entertaining. They make funny faces and they make me laugh every time! :)"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "We love taking selfies! This time it was in the middle of the zoo, looking right at the sun! We ALWAYS have such a great time together! We can be a little wild, a little silly - but we're always smiling when we are together. This day was no different. Beautiful scenery, wild animals and US. Love!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "This momma elephant walked around as her three babies sat in the water. They splashed & played before getting out of the water & followed mom. They were so amazingly beautiful!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "This big fella was just 'lion' around in the warm summer sun! He seemed to enjoy the people watching him ... he didn't move much."

Above photo: Journaling reads: "Rhinos are one of my most FAVORITE animals! They are so big, so tough, so strong! I love seeing them up close! :)"

"I call more than one rhinoceri"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "It was so hot that these sea lions just kept jumping and swimmin in the ice cold water! One guy kept going in circles - teasing the others. They were so fun - one more highlight of our zoo day!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "This leopard certainly wasn't jumping around-he was napping next to the glass window. I'm surprised he was able to sleep with so many people tapping on the glass! We watched him for a little while before moving onto our next animal adventure!"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "This turtle was pretty old-but he moved around well. He even stuck his head out! :)"

Above photo: Journaling reads: "We had such a WONDERFUL time at the zoo! We've even planned on visiting a few more zoos in different cities this summer. The weather was warm & sunny, the animals were all out & we were together...what more could we ask for? We laughed & joked all day while learning new things-including the fact that I don't like bats! I'm so happy that we shared this adventure together! Summertime : 2011."

Supplies Used:

Cardstock, Cardstock Stickers, Rub-on Letters, Patterned Paper, A2 Cards : Doodlebug

Gems: Mark Richards

Pen: Signo [white], Staedtler [black]

Twine: My Mind's Eye

Adhesive: Scotch, Scrapbook Adhesives

Binding tool: We R Memory Keepers

Tim McGraw [upclose]

2011-08-17T10:44:00.003-04:00

Last Friday night was the Tim McGraw concert at Blossom. Jon and I headed out early [as usual] to tailgate in the parking lot. Our game of choice for this particular day was Giant Jenga. It always makes us laugh and smile to see how many people stop to stare or take a picture of our game. Since we were the fifth car in line to get into the parking lot with nearly an hour until the gate opened, we played in line.

Once inside the parking lot in one of our favorite spots, we set up the game again and played a few rounds. I headed over to the box office to see if there were any ticket upgrades available...and there were! Covered pavilion with actual seats is always better than the lawn. The section listed on our newly updated tickets read Section 35, Row D. Couldn't be that bad, right?

We jammed to some tunes, played some more jenga and enjoyed some Bud Light before heading into the concert. Last year [2010], we scored some Bud Light Lounge passes from someone that Jon knows. We just happened to bring them with us this year...and were lucky enough to be able to use them! We got inside the lounge and played some trivia games and we even won a couples scavenger hunt...winning 6 tickets to the upcoming Jason Aldean concert! When we didn't win the grand prize-front row tickets- to Tim...we headed to our seats.

How excited were we to find that there was a mini stage/platform in the middle of the pavilion and that our seats were um...right in front of it? Oh yes...there was no zoom used on these photos:

Tim sang three or four songs from this platform while shaking hands & slapping high fives before heading to the main stage. We still had an awesome view! Yay for $10 ticket upgrades!

We even got to enjoy some of Luke Bryan & The Band Perry's music as they both joined Tim on stage. This was definitely one of our favorite shows this summer!

I worked the majority of the weekend and yesterday and today I've been consumed with a gazillion and seven art ideas. I've been spending quite a bit of time online doing research and I've found several things that are getting me into trouble [the good kind]:

: a new online class [something creative for ME] :

Ohhhh so excited! [I'm already a little behind, so I've got to get busy!]

: I finally updated my Flickr account to a PRO account, so you can see everything I've ever uploaded. I thought that this might be beneficial for a few reasons. Plus...it's fun to look back on all I've made and shared.

For now, I've gotta get a few things done before a lunch date...and then this afternoon is crammed full of emails to send, pretty things to make...and design team submissions!

Thanks for stopping by!

No Day But Today.

2011-08-09T22:21:00.002-04:00

I'm watching one of my favorite movies [RENT] while working on things in the office. I initially fell in love with this musical a gazillion years ago, thanks to my brother. The music is so powerful and every time I see it, whether live or in DVD form, I get even more out of it. Love.

I worked today for Niki at Captains and I have to admit, I'd be more than willing to work another day shift! It's the kind of shift that I love; lots of regulars who expect a certain kind of service, easy time-wise [10:30-5], and still really good money. I work tomorrow night and Thursday night, then Saturday is Roverfest and we have absolutely no idea what to expect. It should be a good time.

I'm still working on my cards for the Doodlebug Design Team submission. I'm struggling and I think it's because I am completely over-thinking things. I should just do what works and make several and then have friends and family vote on which two to select. That's the big plan for tomorrow. I made one today and one yesterday, but in all honesty, yesterday's is entirely too simple. It's cute...but I've made so much better. Keep your fingers crossed for my creativity to thrive.

I'm also planning on completely starting a new art blog, full of ideas and inspiration and links to things I've listed on Etsy as well as on Flickr. I'm still working out a lot of the kinks and will be looking for feedback. It's another work in progress. I've been accepted to the Saint Paschal's Craft Fair in November and I've got a long list of things that I'd like to have on hand, so I'm sure to be busy in the coming weeks! It's so exciting and exhilarating, all at one time!

I also have to share that one of my newest favorite things is ice cold water with lemon and lime, either the real fruit or the fake juice. It's so refreshing. Love.

It's late...but I'm inspired. Time to create.

No. Day. But. Today.

Sunday Funday...

2011-08-07T21:39:00.002-04:00

So...a little bit has changed since my last post.

I'm officially done working at/for Archiver's. My last day was a bittersweet one. I'm definitely going to miss the amazing people that I work with...the plethora of supplies at my fingertips...dancing with co-workers to happy meal toys, my favorite fEDex guy, and the general abundance of creativity I was surrounded by on a daily basis. [Things I won't miss: the hour[plus] I spent in the car everyday, Dead Man's Curve, super long hours with no time to create personally, broken glass doors, computers going down, flooding, the random chaotic everyday mess...]

It's going to be different, rough even...but I'm really excited. More details as they come to light.

I was recently introduced to the television show: Dexter. It's about a serial killer and I cannot stop watching it. [I'm borrowing season one from a friend] I LOVE IT.

I took the recent photos of my Doodlebug album down off of Flickr, just for the time being, [in case you went to look for them]. When I was on my Flickr site, I happened to see a comment on one of my photos. Apparently I was listed on a Tweet from Hero Arts! Here's a link to the tweet. So exciting!

I'm all over the place after a long day at work, so I'm going to relax and hang out for a bit. More updates and artwork soon.

Happy Birthday Momma!

2011-08-02T20:03:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Momma! I love you and I hope you had a great day!

Here's my super sneak peek at my mini album for the Doodlebug Design Team. Let me know what you think...feedback is always appreciated.

Two days left at Archiver's...it's definitely been interesting. It's starting to hit me. Really hit me.

BUT...I'm super, uber excited about all that is to come!

Tonight I'm gonna create and play and relax a little...I've got doubles tomorrow and Thursday, but details to come soon. :)

My Doodlebug Obsession...

2011-07-24T21:28:00.004-04:00

Last post I mentioned the Doodlebug Design Team Call. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since.

In fact, I already made a layout. The requirements include a page, 2 cards and either a mini book or a home decor project. While there is a small chance that I might make another layout, so far this is my favorite for so many reasons.

Reason uno: it's using 100% Doodlebug goodness. What's not to love about that?!? Two: It's a super fun picture, one of those spur of the moment selfies & I'm wearing my favorite neon green hoodie. Three: I've combined so many elements in unique ways. I've got the visual triangle going on in several ways, I used a partial rub-on to make my title while adding additional words, and there are BUTTONS. Ya'll know how I love buttons. And there are stitch marks...they are always fun.

So yeah...I dig it. Thoughts? Reactions? Let me know...

I'm still working on the card ideas, but the mini book is under way. It's definitely one-of-a-kind...as in, I made it. From scratch. And it's aweeeeeesome. It's not done, but I'll link photos when it is.

We got done with inventory at Archiver's in record time tonight...most likely due to the amazing new Percon we got...and the amazing people I work with. Definitely going to miss them...and the crazy banter...and the Rockstar...and the laughter and jokes and silliness.

My week will be a little crazy in terms of working. I'm on the next three days at Archiver's, Wednesday through Saturday at Captain's, and then Saturday through Thursday at Archiver's. I'm working the next 13 days with 4 doubles. But then...then it's full time art fun. :) I. Can't. Wait.

I should so be doing something creative right now, but instead I'm sucked into a movie on TV, even though I missed the first hour. It's The Proposal with Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock. It's almost like a train wreck, I just can't stop watching, but in a good way.

More updates when I have time...which may be hit or miss for a few days.

It's official...

2011-07-20T22:02:00.002-04:00

...today I announced my resignation from Archiver's. My last official day will be Thursday, August 4th.

This is the beginning of something wonderful I think. Change will certainly be hard, but if it isn't hard, it probably isn't worth it.

I'll be working full time at Captain's Club, 4-5 nights a week. This will allow me to do certain things. First of all, I'll have all day to work on artsy and creative things, hopefully allowing me to put myself a little further "out there" and get noticed [in a good way]. Second of all, I won't be spending nearly an hour and 20 minutes each day in the car. I'll have more time...to sleep, to create, to relax, to thrive. Third: I've been having a lot of fun at Captain's Club. I'm meeting lots of cool people and I'm making fantastic money. Serving and bartending is something I'm good at. Some might frown on it, thinking it's not an honorable job, but for me...it makes me happy and it pays my bills. And I'm kinda over caring about what other people think.

So that's exciting news part one...and I'm excited. I'm also terrified...nervous...scared...giddy...but I can't wait for all that's yet to come!

Part one? Is there a part two? Oh yeah there is!

Thanks to my Momma for finding this awesomeness : awesomeness. For those who might not know what that all means...it's getting to make samples and get published on a regular basis using a particular company's product. In this case, it's Doodlebug, which just happens to be one of my most favorite companies...ever. I'm already scheming which layout to use...I've got a few in mind. One isn't yet created, and one I might tweak to include a bit more of their product...but excited doesn't begin to describe how I'm feeling about this. Thanks Momma!

Right now I'm scanning some recently created works in so that I can post to Flickr. Sleepy time soon, I've got a double tomorrow. More updates on Friday, but here's to all that is yet to come!

Today was the day...

2011-07-18T23:26:00.003-04:00

...that I said things out loud and gave them validity.

...that I decided [for real], no more "what-if's".

...that I set things in motion [in high speed, of course].

...that I surprised myself.

...that I was terrified/scared/excited/ecstatic/nervous/giddy about...all at the same time.

Today was the day that someday, I'll look back on with a smile on my face, knowing I made the right decision.

Today was big. BIG.

I can't wait to share all the details and excitement...but it'll have to wait [at least one more day...you know, to sink in.]

.live.for.today.

2011-07-14T23:53:00.001-04:00

That's my quote for the day. I'm at a very interesting point in my life and right now, my mantra is .live.for.today. More details on that later. [There's currently so many colors floating around in my head I'm not sure I could explain even if I wanted to!]

Yesterday I went to Cedar Point with Jon, his mom and his 11 year old nephew. I didn't get a ton of photos, but the few I did get are awesome. My favorite ride is the old Gemini. It's a classic wooden coaster and it's pretty much amazing.

The sign outside the ride.

Coasting up the first big hill. We were in the blue car [the two cars always race since there are two separate tracks].

Just a really cool view of some of the hills, about half way through the ride.

Jon and I in line for the ride [for a second time].

Tomorrow is another concert, this time Toby Keith and Eric Church. I'm pretty excited. It's supposed to be decent weather and my tan is coming in nicely. :)

Lots of art to work on in the next few days as well. I've got BIG plans coming up. I'm off from Archiver's until Monday and I only work at Captain's Club Saturday night. I should have a good amount of time to create...equalling a happy me.

Sleepy time for now. More soon. Thanks for stopping by!

A few quick updates

2011-07-11T10:26:00.002-04:00

These are two of the cards that I made last night and I have to admit, I really like them. They were made entirely out of scraps that I had lying around. Love that too. On the inside of both, the sentiment "celebrate whoo hoo!" is stamped.

As you can probably tell from the lack of posts, I've been really busy. Really. Busy. I'm working two jobs, still full time at Archiver's and then a few nights a week at the Captain's Club Restaurant and Bar. I've had several concerts and between all that...I haven't had much free time.

I'm working pretty hard to make sure that I make some "me" time after watching June pass by in a blur. I've got some tricks up my sleeve and some things I really want to do, so that's the current plan.

I've got lots to update on, including my weekend away in Pittsburgh, but that might be done via links to the pictures of the album on Flickr. [They aren't there yet, so don't go look.]

For now? Sleepy time for this kid. It feels good to be back!

And there went June...

2011-06-29T22:02:00.002-04:00

...so apparently it's the second-to-last day in June. I'm not really sure where this month went, or where this summer is going to be honest.

In late May I got a second job and that has kept me pretty busy. I'm serving and bartending at a local restaurant/bar. It's good to be back in that business...something different every day and fantastic cash. Ultimately I'd like to get back to that full time.

I'm still rocking at Archiver's...same old, same old. I've recently picked up quite a stash of new supplies that are just sitting on my desk taking up space. My creative mojo is seriously lacking. There have been a few changes that have seriously started to stress me out and I think that is also contributing to my lack of updating, creating and purely being inspired. Hopefully a few days away will help get me back on track.

This weekend I'm headed to Pittsburgh to see Zac Brown Band and Kenny Chesney. I. Cannot. Wait. Should be a fabulous time. Add in awesome company, a stop at Ikea, perhaps the Warhol museum and three days off work and it's bound to be a great break. Details, photos and a recap to take place soon.

Here's to posting more in July. :)

May : Day 31

2011-05-31T21:41:00.014-04:00

May : Day 30

2011-05-31T21:41:00.013-04:00

May : Day 29

2011-05-31T21:41:00.011-04:00

May : Day 28

2011-05-31T21:41:00.009-04:00

May : Day 27

2011-05-31T21:41:00.007-04:00

May : Day 26

2011-05-31T21:41:00.005-04:00

May : Day 25

2011-05-31T21:41:00.003-04:00

May : Day 24

2011-05-31T21:41:00.001-04:00

May : Day 23

2011-05-31T21:40:00.014-04:00

May : Day 22

2011-05-31T21:40:00.013-04:00

May : Day 21

2011-05-31T21:40:00.011-04:00

May : Day 20

2011-05-31T21:40:00.009-04:00

May : Day 19

2011-05-31T21:40:00.007-04:00

May : Day 18

2011-05-31T21:40:00.005-04:00

May : Day 17

2011-05-31T21:40:00.003-04:00

May : Day 16

2011-05-31T21:40:00.001-04:00

May : Day 15

2011-05-22T22:59:00.002-04:00

Day 15 : Take inspiration from Stephanie Howell...one of her pages, or from some of her ideas.

I'll be honest. I'm not thrilled with the way that this layout turned out. It's not very "me" and I used products [the focus this week is on embellishments] that I wasn't really comfortable with.

Here are pages one and two and here's the digitally stitched version.

But it's done. And I'm still on track.

15 down, 16 more to go!

May : Day 14

2011-05-22T22:55:00.003-04:00

Day 14 : Use contrasting colors.

A chance to use two of my favorite colors...together? Um, okay!

I chose to use black and white photographs to highlight my page and I think they turned out pretty well.

I documented my tattoo experience [6x6 size, yes I still haven't completed the journaling from my 12x12 that's sitting on my desk] with a bunch of small photos.

Here are pages one and two and here's the digitally stitched version.

So far, two weeks in and I'm pretty pleased with the way my pages are coming together. I'm using a ton of stuff from my stash without buying much new and I'm still learning about myself and my style.

14 down, 17 to go!

May : Day 13

2011-05-22T22:48:00.002-04:00

Day 13 : Go old school and match your photo to your paper.

I picked a photo that I love, [one of those that you take and when you look back on it, you're completely surprised that it turned out that great] and just used some plain cardstock.

Here are pages one and two and here's the digitally stitched version.

This is one of my key examples of wishing I had a 12x12 scanner. When you scan in two parts and the page colors don't line up, it's pretty frustrating.

I stuck to pretty simple elements in this layout. Subtle, rounded corners, slight inking around the edges, an embossed template and handwritten journaling.

I definitely love and miss these two kids.

13 down, 18 to go!

May : Day 12

2011-05-22T22:27:00.003-04:00

Day 12 : Pick a color you rarely use and combine it with a color you usually gravitate towards.

Easy peasey.

Color I rarely use? Pink.

Color I gravitate towards? Green.

Here are pages one and two and here's the digitally stitched version.

I absolutely LOVE the way this layout came together. I've had this picture forever and when I say that it was easy peasey, it really was. A really long time ago I hoarded a super cute collection of paper and embellishments from Making Memories and when I thought about the color combination I wanted to use, it instantly came to mind.

So simple and yet...adorable.

12 down, 19 to go!

*The delay in posting is all Blogger's fault. It was down for two days and that totally threw me off. I do apologize.*

May : Day 11

2011-05-11T23:27:00.000-04:00

Day 11 : Focus on black and white.

There are always shades of grey with me.

[Quick post tonight...I'm uber sleepy!]

Page one, two and the digitally stitched version.

I promise more updates soon.

11 down, 20 more to go!

May : Day 10

2011-05-10T21:26:00.002-04:00

Day 10 : Use inspiration found somewhere in nature.

I struggled with this for a bit today because in typical Kerry fashion, I'm reading into everything. Thoughts that went through my mind today, in no order: 'do I need to use a picture of nature? I have that great shot of a tiger lily from Chris and Staci in Hawaii...' 'oh I have that picture of Murphy and Do...wait I already scrapped that', 'I really should get working on my Cancun album', 'I've got lots of photos inspired by nature in the sense that I took them outside'...and on and on and on.

Blah.

And then something happened on the way home that changed everything. I decided to just go with my gut and scrap the first pictures that spoke to me. And I've had these printed of MM for forever and a day [since we got back from Cancun, actually]. I'm scared to death to scrap Cancun for so many reasons [that I won't bore you with now...later, maybe, but not now.]

The title says it all : "wish you were here"

MM and I passed each other in the parking lot. He was getting ready to head to Gossett's for the evening and I was just getting home from work. We chatted for a few in our cars while blocking the entire driveway.

People don't understand how we can hang out, still live in the same house and generally get along now that we're not dating. I mean, it's been six years. That's a lot of change. The answer is simple, really. We like each other. We care about each other. We are friends. Those are things that aren't going to change, overnight or over the years.

I don't typically hide my journaling on my pages and even if I do, I usually type it out so people can know what's there. On Flickr I didn't do that today, but I'll share it here.

"Cancun . Mexico : Dec 3 . 2009

On this day, MM joined in with some boys to play beach volleyball. I sat & sunbathed. The weather was beautiful-after some afternoon rain. You wish you were there.

Today : May 10 . 2011

I wish you were here-to laugh with, to talk to, to just be... Things aren't the same but I'm glad I got to share this [and so many more] memorable days with you."

Here are pages one and two and here's the digitally stitched version.

Today's been a weird day all around. I think I'll clean up a little and do some laundry to try and forget about it. Let's hope tomorrow is better.

10 down, 21 more to go!

May : Day 9

2011-05-09T22:29:00.003-04:00

Day 9 : This week's topic/theme is color.

I'm super inspired by a color chart that Lain posted [& I'm going to try and find a way to copy it here because it's pretty dang sweet] and it helped inspire my layout today.

Page one, two and the digitally stitched version.

More details and thoughts tomorrow when my brain can process...for now it's time for some serious sleeps.

9 down, 22 to go!

May : Day 8

2011-05-08T23:06:00.002-04:00

Day 8 : and we're on to COLOR!

I thought about the emotions that certain colors invoke in me and I've discovered [again] that green is my power color.

I had some fun playing with today's layout while trying to learn how to NOT take myself so seriously. Not crazy with the way that it turned out, but I'm doing lots of learning along the way.

My attempts to get to bed early failed...and I've gotta be up super early for various reasons that I'm not going to get into tonight. Hopefully I'll have the time and energy to update those details tomorrow.

Until then [and no, I haven't updated May 5th's entry yet. Add that to tomorrow's list!] here's today's pages.

One and two and the digitally stitched version.

Thanks for looking!

8 down, 23 to go!

[And by the way, Happy Mother's Day to the best mom, ever. Love you!]

May : Day 7

2011-05-07T21:55:00.002-04:00

Day 7 : Scraplift a layout.

Okaaay!

This is the layout that I decided to 'lift'. It was created by Becky Higgins and I'm pretty sure that I found it in an issue of Creating Keepsakes, but I'm not sure when.

My subject matter today was a little silly [to some] yet somewhat logical to me. I love me some Patrick Dempsey...so why not devote a layout to him?

The colors aren't fantastic, but you'll have that. It's done. I can always re-do it.

Here are pages one and two, and here's the digitally stitched version.

I'm off to catch up on some laundry and cleaning. Whoo hoo fun Saturday night!

7 down, 24 to go!

May : Day 6

2011-05-06T20:05:00.002-04:00

Day 6 : Alignment.

Yeah. I'm pretty good about that. And I'm pretty anal, so it all works well.

I'm really pleased with the way that today's layout came together, along with the added bonus of hidden journaling. I love being secretive!

Here are pages one and two and the digitally stitched version. As an added bonus, you can see the hidden journaling here.

Today was a long day at work so I'm planning on relaxing this evening. I've got lots to update, including yesterday's post, but I totally feel like delaying that until later...or tomorrow. Yeah, probably tomorrow. :)

Guess you'll have to come back to catch up!

6 down, 25 to go!

May : Day 5

2011-05-05T23:23:00.003-04:00

Day 5 : The visual triangle.

This is an element that I try to incorporate into every single page I make.

It's been a crazy day and I've got lots to update, but first I need to finish my layout for today.

I'll come back and edit this post with the links to the pages as soon as they are done. Just wanted to inform inquiring minds that yes, I'm still on track. :)

More info soon.

May : Day 4

2011-05-04T20:33:00.003-04:00

Day 4 : Prompt : WHITE SPACE.

I love that "white space" doesn't have to mean actual white space. However, for today's page I actually did use white space, which is super rare for me. I'm not one to use plain white. I love the color, love the patterns, love the random. However, for today white seemed to work perfectly.

I came up with this idea/concept sometime this afternoon and couldn't wait to get home and map it out. I love that it came together so easily for me after having such a hard time last night. I think that because this month we're focusing so heavily on the "basics", I'm clearly over-thinking things. [Who, me?]

The journaling on today's page means just as much to me as the photo which is one of my favorites. What do you think?

Here is page one, page two, the digitally stitched version and the original photo I used.

Thanks for stopping by!

[I'm headed out since tomorrow is technically my Friday. Yay for that!]

4 down, 27 more to go!

May : Day 3

2011-05-03T23:19:00.002-04:00

So it's day 3...and I've hit a [serious] wall.

I'm reading into the prompts entirely too much, but you'll have that.

Short and sweet.

Here's page one, two and the digitally stitched version.

3 down, 28 to go.

May : Day 2

2011-05-02T21:09:00.002-04:00

It's day 2 and I'm pretty pleased with what I've done today!

The prompt for today's LOAD included an audio interview and focused on the elements that make a layout "flow". Some key words [and concepts] that I took away from the interview include:

-emphasis

-contrast

-balance

-alignment

-repetition

-flow

These struck some chords with me and I thought about each element individually and then as a whole and how I focus on each one when I sit down to create my layouts.

I've [re]discovered several things.

I love odd numbers of elements, even though asymmetrical things typically bother me. The visual triangle is HUGE when dealing with any layout, regardless of size. When working small like I am [6x6], I have to keep things proportional, otherwise things look goofy. This totally relates to the balance of the pages. I've determined that I like to think of my two page spreads as a one page spread that's 12x6 rather than two 6x6's. It makes things easier for me. Contrast doesn't have to deal with color, but with elements as whole pieces.

It's funny to me that I can hear Joel [my former Art professor and college advisor] saying "what are you trying to say?" It works every time.

As for the details of today's layout:

There isn't any journaling. I couldn't fit it in and I didn't want to smash it in just for the sake of having it in. People who know me will totally get the layout without having any journaling, and if you aren't familiar with me, let me explain.

I have a small obsession with diet Coke. As in I drink it all day, everyday. It's typically substituted for at least one meal a day and there's always some in the fridge. And more often than not, you can find a few empties around my house...or car...

The day these photos were taken [with a cell phone, mind you] 12-packs were on sale for $2 at my local Target. Ordinarily they cost $4.67. [This week they are on sale for $4 a 12-pack]. When I walked in and saw the pretty display, I knew I had to stock up. $2 is cheaper than a gallon of gas for goodness sake. And in my life, diet Coke might just be more valuable than a gallon of gas. So I stocked up. I got some for my Dad. I took some to work. I purchased 18 12-packs. I cleared out the shelves. I pushed a really heavy cart and loaded up the entire trunk of my Scion tC. Such a pretty sight. It'll last me a long time...[I think] and it made me really happy. It's the small things in life, right?

As for the design elements and how I worked them into my layout...

Emphasis: A subject matter that is near and dear to my heart. [Trivial? Yes. True? 177%]

Contrast: I think the colors are quite contrasting even though I was trying to have more [than just the colors] contrast. Enter the large title, even though the word is small.

Balance: Size-wise, similar shapes on each page, equal distances apart. The small black buttons forming a visual triangle, leading your eye down page one and across to the photos and title on page two. Very similar to the alignment aspects...

Alignment: Everything is evenly spaced [having the grid lines on the blue background certainly helped!] The white stitching around the blue, leading your eye to the important subject matter. Tying everything together.

Repetition: The colors, the size, the buttons...

Flow: I think it flows...and I'm really happy with it.

Since you haven't seen what I'm talking about, come take a look.

Here's page one and here's page two and here's the digitally stitched version.

I hope you've enjoyed visiting.

2 down, 29 to go!

[On non-art related news...]

Today was a good day off. I was able to get some mad amounts of laundry done and cleaning up as well. The office is nearly back to normal and I've discovered that I have ENTIRELY too much crap and I need to purge, donate and trash some of the stuff I've been hanging onto.

Last night when I went out with some friends I was amazed to walk into the bar and see the TVs on, featuring the headline that Bin Laden had been killed. As we were glued to the TV my mind went back to September 11, 2001. I had just walked into LS 100 and the TV was on. Our professor told us to go back to our rooms...tragedy had struck in New York. We were in awe...the devastation hitting our country was intense. By the time we got back to our rooms the second tower had fallen. I remember calling my mom and finding out my brother was indeed NOT in New York like he was supposed to be. Friends clung together, glued to the TVs and Internet. For days after I wanted someone to replace the painting of our campus rock [that was covered in black with the date 9-11 in white] with an American Flag. Nearly a month later a very good friend of mine did just that late one night. The vulnerability that we all felt was more real than anything we had experienced. I felt that last night...I felt the goosebumps as I watched our President address our nation. Such powerful news. I truly hope that everyone who was [personally] affected by the events of September 11, 2001 can find some peace now knowing that the monster behind it can never harm anyone again. Needless to say...it wasn't the typical night at the Bogside.

Just thinking about it gives me the chills. Whew.

Right now I'm going to actually put my laundry away [because apparently saying it out loud gives it truth and validity] and catch up with some of my fellow LOADsters.

Thanks for stopping by!

May : Day 1

2011-05-01T22:52:00.002-04:00

It's Day 1 of May LOAD! Yay!

I'll come back and edit and add in the links to today's pages...right now I'm headed out for a minute. [It's my Friday!]

And I'm not sure what happened to yesterday's post, so I'll have to try and find it!

Thanks for your patience...and sit back. It's going to be a great 31 days of posting!

*EDITED*

So...day one is complete! This week's theme is Design and that's definitely a topic that I love, not only in relation to my photos, pages and albums, but also in my life and house as well.

The basic prompt for today was back to basics: use a photo, journaling, a title, cardstock and patterned paper.

I felt like I had a slight struggle ahead of me...the topic itself kinda threw me for a loop, even though I've been thinking about the basics for awhile now.

Here is page one, here's page two and here's the digitally stitched version.

I'm not sure how I feel about them...and I'm hoping to get out of the slight funk I'm in.

Can't wait to see what tomorrow has in store...come back and visit!

1 down, 30 to go!

A day away...from LOAD 511

2011-04-30T21:51:00.002-04:00

[Apparently...I can't post from my phone...although I can update. Interesting and good to know.]

So it's the last day of April and I can't believe I'm a day away from another fun-filled month of prompts, inspiration and ideas with Layout A Day featuring the amazing Lain Ehmann. I had so much fun in the month of February and I got so much done and the journey itself was incredible.

I never thought that I'd actually complete an entire month of layouts a day...let alone a two page spread for each day. I'm planning on working on the same size this time [6x6] mostly because it's one of my favorite sizes. Plus...I have a plethora of mini albums and I want to fill them! And, since this month's theme is "Back to Basics" and each week is a different theme, I'm planning on actually having four albums, one for each week. [That's the plan anyways]

It's been a crazy week of work and my schedule coming up is just as crazy. Although like some of my favorite song lyrics say:

"I love this crazy, tragic...sometimes almost magic, awful beautiful life."

I hope you'll continue to follow me on this artistic journey. I can't wait to see what the next 31 days have in store.

70 degrees means one thing...

2011-04-27T20:33:00.002-04:00

...okay it means two things.

One: my moonroof was open and music was blaring on the way home.

Two: it's still 70 degrees and it's nearly 9 pm so I'm headed to an outside patio to enjoy a frosty beverage with some friends.

There's a plethora of games on tv...Hockey playoffs, the Indians and some NBA games. Always good things. And...I have a neon yellow [and I mean neon yellow in terms of construction worker yellow] hoodie to make me smile.

And happy toes. Because let's face it...if it's 70 degrees outside, you know I'm rockin the flops.