Inky Pawprints

Time Changes Things

2012-01-16T20:22:00.000-08:00

I have decided to shake things up a little bit on my blog. As you can tell, I have changed the name. It saddened me to see I made less a half dozen posts last year. I guess it should come as no surprise to me with everything that happened last year however it did surprise and sadden me.

I am also going to shake things up in my personal life again. I have a lot of decisions to make (once again) and the biggest one is what am I going to do with the rest of my life. Do I need to move? If so, where? Career? Yep, starting all over again and not quite sure where to start in that department.

One of the reasons I changed the name of my blog is because "Hugs4theHeart Designs" has been a business dream of mine for a very long time now. I am definately going to grow an Etsy business (and I can do that from anywhere as long as I have a computer).

Tonight is my jumping off point and writing has always been healing for me and helps me get to what is buried deep within my heart.  It time to do some more digging and see where I end up.

So not only does time change things - only time willl tell.

Until later

Laine

A New Beginning.....

2011-06-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

It certainly has been quite a while since I have been able to post anything on my blog. Life has been full of many challenges and struggles lately and I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

First of all - I moved from Washington State and am now living in Medford, Oregon. It was a huge leap of faith for me and it's been quite the journey thus far. I have been off work since February 24th and am now unemployed. It's a long story but one full of many life lessons. One of which is having honesty and integrity doesn't always mean things turn out the way they should but at least I can look at myself in the mirror everyday and that is priceless to me. And now I am moving on to new adventures and challenges and I have never been happier.

I have been in Oregon a week now and I love how much slower life is here. I no longer have to spend precious time stuck in traffic jams. It takes only a few minutes to run to the store and get back home again. Wow - I love it!! My sister Dana and I will be moving into a two bedroom apartment at the end of June and we are excited about that too.

I now have my own craft booth in a business called Awstruck Collectibles which is located in the main mail in Medford. I have been busy making many new things so that my sister and I can get the booth decorated and ready for business early this coming week. It feels like a huge responsibility and yet it is exciting at the same time. I have taken some photos of my booth and will post them as soon as I can. And of course, I will post before and after photos!!

Lots of new changes coming soon here on my blog as well as at my Etsy store and new craft booth.

Thank you Greeting Card

2011-02-21T17:06:00.000-08:00

This turned out to be an interesting card to create. I found a great video about a "smooching technique" at Hero Arts and decided to try the technique myself.

I stamped the flower image three times on the white cardstock. I stamped the images again using the "smooching technique" for texture and cut out the outside edges of the flowers so I could add dimension to the flowers. I used mounting tape to attach the top flower to the bottom flower. You can really see the difference between the two images and I love the look of the top flower. For the centers of the flowers I used stickles to add some bling to the flower itself. I used "sage" ink to stamp the leaves around the three flowers. There wasn't an actual leaf stamp in the flower set - I used an image of a small heart from another stamp set. I stamped "thank you" with black ink. I'm not really happy at how faded the ink is on the card but decided to post the card anyway because it took so much time to create this card in the first place.

The products used are:

Versa Magic chalk ink - Red Brick and Sage
Versa Fine Dry Pigment ink - Black
Verse Acrylic Stamp Set - Great Friend
Unknown background stamp to create the "smooshing technique"
Mounting tape, adhesive and stickles.

I've also included a link to the video in case you would like to watch how the technique is done: http://heroarts.com/blogs/club/

Hercules and the Power of Cheese

2011-02-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

Sneek Peak At Christmas Cards

2010-11-13T13:16:00.000-08:00

OMGoodness - I can't believe it has been such a long time since my last post. Where has time gone?? I have been working so many hours that I have barely had time to breathe let alone do anything else. The insanity has to stop!!

I did have a friend over last weekend to help her make some Christmas cards. I made a few of my own and decided to actually post them here. These are just two of the cards I plan on making and hopefully later today I can make some more. It feels great to be back and it seems I have a lot of catching up to do.

**************************************************************

I have finally taken the leap with my love of writing. I have just begun a new blog (heaven help me) about the lessons I have learned over the past 10 years from my little furry Hercules. I've only made one post so far but I have only just begun. I hope you will check it out from time to time and let me know what you think.

The link is to the right and all you have to do is click on the photo of Hercules.

Thanks so much for looking!!

Six Quick and Easy Cards

2010-08-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

I was in the mood for some instant gratication over the weekend and decided to make some quick and easy cards and below are a few of them. I absolutely love the orange and pink combination and my only regret is that I don't have any more of that cardstock. The "Hello Friend" is a digital stamp and I've been using it a lot. You can also see that the common theme for all the other cards is the Eiffel Tower. Paris is a place I hope to visit one day. I'm not leaving a lot of details of what into creating all the cards because I think they are all pretty self explanatory.

Orange Floral Album - Part Two

2010-08-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are two photos of the inside of this album. As you can tell, I haven't completely finished the album. I absolutely love how the album fans open and all the different colors and patterns of cardstock. There are a total of 15 pockets holding 15 tags. I think I will use this as an album full of my favorites quotes and scriptures. Once the album is finished I will post another photo.

I have a lot of cards, albums and other projects that I can't wait to share with you.

Thanks so much for taking the time to visit.

Orange Floral Album - Just a peek!!

2010-08-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

Wow!! Time sure has flown by these past several weeks. I have been working so much overtime that I haven't had a lot of time to create or post projects on this blog.

This album was a lot of fun to make - it took a while because I made it from scratch but I am really happy with it. I am only going to post the front of the album today and will post a photo of what it looks like inside tomorrow. The real reason I have to wait until tomorrow to post the photo of the inside of the album is because I have to retake the photo again tomorrow and I promised myself I would post something today.

The album is 3.5" x 5.25" when closed. I've never been a big fan or orange but that seems to have really changed lately - it's really becoming a favorite color to use.

Thanks for looking and let me know what you think!!

Birthday Card with Beautiful Flowers

2010-07-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of a birthday card that I made for my former boss. I wish the photo did this card justice - it's really pretty and the flowers are gorgeous. I love all the bling sprinkled all over them. I used Spellbinders Nestabilities to make the front of the card. The base of the card is black cardstock; the patterned paper is from Daisy D's and the pink cardstock is from Bazzill. I used miscellaneous lace at the bottom of the card and attached the flowers with glossy accents. The "just because" sentiment is from The Angel Company and I believe the flowers are from Prima. I've been saving the flowers for a very special reason and Diane's birthday was the perfect reason to finally use the flowers. The most important part is that Diane loved it and it made her smile. I also decorated the inside of the card but forgot to take a photo of it (big bummer). Thanks for looking and I will be posting again soon.

Etsy Shop - Finally Up And Running

2010-06-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

I made myself a promise last Friday and that was I would get my Etsy Shop up and running before I went back to work from the three day weekend. I had to stay up late on Monday night but thankfully I kept that promise and I am now up and running. I only have 7 items listed at this moment in time however that will be changing soon. I wish it would stop raining so I could take photographs of some of the items I will be listing. Until that happens - I will continue to make things to add to the shop. I have lots to learn and lots of projects to make but its still exciting to have finally reached this part of the goal.

As I shared yesterday - mom's passing has been really hard and yet I knew I needed to start putting one foot in front of the other so I could continue moving forward. I know that's what mom would want. I'll be adding greeting cards, albums and lots of other things. It's very exciting and gives me something to look forward to.

I've added the link if you'd like to check it out. Let me know what you think - I'd appreciate the feedback.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/hugs4theheart

This is one the key chains I have listed in the shop - It's my cute little pig keychain.

Sneak Peek at my Contest Entry

2010-06-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last three weeks trying to get my home put back together. I've been dealing with a lot of sadness over the recent passing of my mom and am desperately trying to feel grounded again. The last three days I have managed to get a few things done and my home is starting to look a little more normal.

I haven't had a lot of time to create but I did manage to get a project put together for the lastest TAC contest. I thought it would be fun to share just a sneak peek from the front of it. There seems to be quite a few TAC angels with little sneak peeks on their blogs that I thought I would join in on the fun.

One of my goals over the weekend was to get my Etsy shop set up. I will post the link tomorrow and I am so excited that I have finally reached that goal. Now I just have to make more stuff to add to my inventory.

Thanks for looking and I will post again tomorrow.

Cute Gift Card Holder

2010-05-08T17:33:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy making small albums from empty toilet paper rolls and I thought it would be fun to create a small gift card holder out of one as well. I covered the toilet paper roll in cardstock from The Angel Company (Lilly Anna). I added strips of cardstock to the edges for variety. I added two eyelets to the left edge and added some wide white ribbon and finished with some bling. I used Glossy Accents to glue to flower to the front of the cover. A gift card can be added behind the small card insert. Why is it the first one always takes the longest to make??

Thanks for looking!!!

April Stamp of the Month Samples

2010-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy I haven't even have a chance to look at the Stamp of the Month samples that I was asked to create for The Angel Company. I must confess that creating samples with this stamp set was definately out of my comfort zone. I love the "vintage" look - I just don't have a lot of experience under my belt in this area.

Ironically - I fell in love with this stamp set and it's now one of my favorites. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to stretch my creative muscle.

These are the projects and cards I made using this beautiful stamp set.

Here is the link to more SOTM samples: http://www.theangelcompany.net/sotm.html

I hope you will check out the samples made by Yuki Zepeda.

Thanks for looking!!!

Tribute to Mom - Sweet Dreams Pretty Woman

2010-04-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

The last three weeks have been incredibly happy, sad, challenging and at times extremely frustrating. My sister and I rescued our mom exactly three weeks ago from the Adult Family Home she has been living in for almost two years. Mom was unhappy, she felt her boundaries weren't being respected and she wanted out of there. My sister and I moved mom in with me and we had 8 glorious days seeing mom so incredibly happy. Mom loves "water" and she was able to see Lake Washington every day as she sat in her recliner and looked out the living room window. She smiled every day and had an appetite that made us smile. Hercules loved spending time on his grandma's lap and she kept saying that "He is just to cute!" as she stroked his fur.

What we weren't anticipating was having to move mom to a Hospice Center on the 9th day. Fortunately we were able to stay in mom's room and we were with her until she passed away late Saturday night. I'm so thankful that my sister Denise was there with me. Denise and I were like bookends - and we were each standing guard over mom each and every day. It's so hard to watch someone you love slip away a little more every day. It was gut wrenching at times but worth every single second.

I really miss mom and my little home feels so empty without her. I miss her smile!! I miss her sparkling blue eyes!! I miss her hugs, the touch of her hands in mine, I miss seeing the love in her eyes and now my heart has to learn to beat to a new rhythm in life. I miss seeing her when I get up in the morning and tucking her into bed every night. I will miss seeing her dance to "Pretty woman". It was so cute - we would put that song on and she couldn't resist dancing to it - she loved it!!

Mom showed me how to be strong and to never give up!!

Flower Pot Card

2010-03-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I was able to attend my TAC unit meeting and had such a great time. I offered to create a project for everyone to make and this is the card I came up with. My goals in making this card was to only use solid pastel color cardstock and for it to be as quick and simple as possible. I used one of the stamps from the Springtime set (T2944) to make the base of the plant and then added a few small paper flowers. I added bling to the flower pot and I was done. The 5 strips of cardstock are each 1" x 4". I'm really happy with how the card turned out.

Bunny Birthday Card

2010-03-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

This is one of the birthday cards I made for co-worker almost two weeks ago. I wasn't able to post it until now since I am finally starting to feel like I have returned to the land of the living. I've been really sick and can't believe I've lost 9 days. It all began with an asthma setback which led to bronchitis, pneumonia and a sinus infection. It's been a tough time and I have never spent that much time in bed. Now with the help of modern medicine I am beginning to feel the spark of health coming back. My little Hercules has been watching over me. He has been by my side every single moment and has been such a comfort. To bad I can't teach him to cook.

This card was made using paper scraps and "Bunny Friends" (T3222) stamp set from The Angel Company. I used Copic markers to color the balloons and bunny. Using the Copic markers was a big step for me since I have perfectionist tendencies and am not that comfortable with the learning curve at times. I used a glitter pen to add some bling around the edges of the balloon.

Thanks for looking!!!

Laine

I'm Jumping for Joy

2010-02-23T18:09:00.000-08:00

It's always exciting to receive The Angel Company newletter each month - especially when I'm chomping at the bit hoping I was one of the contest winners. And today I found out I was - WooHoo!!!! It was really hard to let this project go but it's like the Lotto - you can't win if you don't play. I don't gamble but I do love to enter the contests - it helps me stretch my creative muscle and actually get something created. I've included the link to all the Contest Winners for this month so you can check out all the other winning entries by other creative and talented angels. If you click on each photo you will be able to see all the winners projects.

http://www.theangelcompany.net/contestwinners.html

Thanks for looking and for sharing in my joy.

Copic Container

2010-02-21T11:11:00.000-08:00

I've had so much going on lately that it's been hard to get into the creative flow. I needed something quick and easy to put together to see if it would help my creativity to flow again. I have been keeping my Copic Pens in an old canister so I figured that was the easiest place to start. It only took 20 minutes to put this project together but it has also sparked the creative flow. The only thing left to do is face my fear of using the Copic Markers. I play with them but my inner critique keeps telling me I have a long ways to go before I can post those images. Anyone else feel that same way?? I am facing that giant today and will post the finished result regardless of what I think of the finished look. I have a tendency to be way to hard on myself. Thanks for looking!!

Laine

"Major Babe"

2010-02-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

It's been really hard to find time to make some projects to post on my blog but I am determined to make a few items this weekend which I will probably post on Sunday.

In the meantime I thought it would be fun to show you a photo of the "Major Babe" in my life. I think he looks adorable!! This shirt thing all began because I had to cut off most of his fur last Sunday (believe me this was not an easy decision to make). I bring him to work everyday and he gets lots of love. All that love and attention means his undercoat can get really matted.

This is the second time in almost 10 years that he's had to have the whack job done on his gorgeous fur. The first time he was so stressed at the loss of his fur that I had to make an emergency visit to the vet to help his stomach problems. The stress was caused because he wasn't use to the feel of the wind on his skin or how a stick feels if he gets poked walking through the bushes. It was major sensory overload.

This time - he is so incredibly happy. He absolutely loves his new look. Ironically I put the shirt on him to help keep him warm and he loves it. Believe it or not when he sees me pull out a shirt he leans his head towards me and lifts his right paw so that I can slip the shirt on him. It's the cutest thing. What do you think?? Personally I think the blue looks perfect with his red fur.

P.S. I never knew he has such a cute "bottom".

Altered ATC Container

2010-01-23T15:57:00.001-08:00

Wow!! Time has passed so quickly these past three weeks. It's been a tough time. My mom's health has continued to decline and it's heart breaking to watch. My sister and I spend a lot of time making sure she has what she needs and most of all spending time with her. As challening as it is - I still view this time with my mom as a precious gift and I am truly thankful for that. I also decided that today was going to be a day spent at home with as much quiet as possible and time working on a project or two. My wonderful secret sister sent me this really cute ATC holder and I've been wanting to decorate it from the moment I received it. I was also wanting to work on a project that gave me a little "instant gratification".

I used "More Mimi" cardstock from The Angel Company and attached it to the container with super takcy tape. I used various ribbons to wrap around the container using super tacky tape and stamped "fantastical fun" from the "Bookoo Blessings" stamp set.

Thanks Shirley Hotop for being such a great secret sister and for sending something that was so much fun decorate.

New Year Wishes Canvas

2010-01-03T17:27:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have had a chance to post anything on my blog. December was a stressful and challening month. My mom's health issues have only become worse and it has been a very sad couple of weeks. I haven't really had time to make anything but thought I could at least share photos of a project that I submitted as a contest entry.

It was such a treat to find out that I was one of the contest winners for this month. It's been such a challenging and stressful December and it was wonderful to get some good news for a change. This project was made using two 8" x 8" canvases. I used hinges to attach them after I painted and covered them with cardstock from the "Reece" cardstock collection. I thought it would be fun to make a small album that was full of my New Year Wishes which is tucked inside the canvas on the right side. I was so tempted to keep it but talked myself out of it.

There are some really great contest winning projects this month - follow this link to check them out on The Angel Company website. http://www.theangelcompany.net/contestwinners.html

Thanks for looking!!

December Angel Blog Hop - "All Wrapped Up"

2009-12-13T17:25:00.000-08:00

This has been a fun event to get ready for - I just wish I had more time. It's been a very busy week especially with my mom having to go to the emergency room on Monday and the challenges at work. I had to come up with some ideas quickly in order to get these projects up and running on time.

This event was planned so that a group of us Angels could share some of our ideas for wrapping Christmas presents using products from The Angel Company. Due to my time constraints this year I need to keep things as simple as possible. Shown below are some of the ideas I came up with. It was so much fun decorating my own packages this year and I plan on doing more (hopefully).

I love the "Reece" cardstock which is what I used for most of these projects. I used an aluminum round canister; a little white box shaped like a purse (so cute); a 4x4"square box and another box that I thought would be fun to hold gift cards. Please check out the links listed below for the other angels that participated in this blog hop and you'll find some great ideas. Enjoy!! Merry Christmas!!!

Jen: http://jensinkspot.blogspot.com/

Shirley: http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com/

Chris http://allamericanstampers.blogspot.com/

Angela http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com/

stacy: http://stacy.typepad.com/angel2389

www.dianasdesignsonline.blogspot.com

The Joy of Christmas Cards

2009-11-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

I was hoping I could post photos of my latest contest entry (that didn't win) and ended up cropping out the best part of the project. In other words - you will only be able to see two of the cards that were stored inside the really cute tote. The tote was so CUTE!!

I only have photos of two of the cards so you can't really see the whole contest entry.
These cards were quick and easy to make. I used the "Ornamental Joy" stamp; "Amelia" cardstock from the Soar With It Collection and just added some bling.

Beta Bob and Bubbles

2009-11-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

I have been having so much fun watching my Beta fish the last couple of months. I named him Beta Bob. It turns out that Beta Bob is a very happy Beta. The reason I know that is because of all the bubbles on the side of his fish bowl.

From the research I have done about this phenomenon its all about the following:

1. It's the male beta's that create all these bubbles.
2. It's because he is happy.
3. He's hoping to win the heart of a female Beta (if only for a brief moment in time).
4. The bubbles hide the babies.

Ironically he thinks I am his kindred spirit. Makes me chuckle to think about it. Anyway - I took some photos and thought it would be fun to share them with you. What do you think?? I wonder how long it took Beta Bob to create all those bubbles?? I should have timed him.

Altered Wooden Plaque

2009-11-22T15:23:00.000-08:00

On September 1st I posted a sneak peak of a wooden plaque that I was going to alter. I realized a little earlier today that I never posted the final project. This is one of those wooden plaques that you can find in the dollar bin at the local craft stores. This plaque is 4"x 6.25".

I covered the front of the plaque with Mia's Cottage Cardstock using Mod Podge to attach it to the wood. I used the butterfly stamp from the "Want to Fly" set and "Life is An Ongoing Adventure" from the "Life Thoughts" set. The stamp sets and cardstock are from The Angel Company. I stamped the butterfly again and cut it out and used mounting tape to pop it up to give it some dimension. And last but not least - lots of bling on the flowers. As you can see I have photos of the original wooden plaque and the finished project. Thanks so much for looking!!

Altered Box for a Little Boys Treasures

2009-11-14T14:37:00.000-08:00

This is a wooden box that I altered for a co-workers little boy. My youngest grandson always loved boxes and all types of storage containers when he was smaller which is what gave me the idea for this box.

My co-workers son is 3 years old and has lots of little treasures that he carries with him where ever he goes. So I decided to make this box as sturdy as possible for his little hands.

I painted the box and then used Mod Podge to attach the cardstock to the front lid and to the inside of the box. I used the cardstock from the TAC Hip Hop collection. Once everything was dry I applied a couple more coats of Mod Podge to help seal and protect the box.

Fortunately the box was a hit with the little boy and his mom says he takes it every where he goes. To me - there's no better compliment than that.

Princess Belle

2009-10-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

This adorable little Pomeranian is Princess Belle (that's the name I gave her). Originally she was raised by a breeder that kept her in a room for over seven years and once she became to old to have more babies the breeder got rid of her. Princess Belle was rescued by an acquaintance of a co-worker of mine. When I first saw her it was love at first sight and Princess Belle came home with me that same day.

I was amazed at how sweet Princess Belle was especially after she had gone through such tragic circumstances for most of her life. Unfortunately due to her having been so sheltered she was terrified of every noise and the kids that lived above me were extremely loud. Princess Belle was a nervous wreck and eventually I had to give her back temporarily to the acquaintance that had rescued her until I moved out of my apartment.

I finally moved to another home with a yard but the acquaintance wouldn't honor her promise to me and I never saw Princess Belle again. I think of her often and my prayer is that she has a happy life.

I came across this little card album that I made with some of these photos of Princess Belle. The cardstock is from the "Mimi" collection which is now called "More Mimi". The stamps are from the "Yield to the Princess" set.

Almost A TAC Contest Entry

2009-10-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

I love to enter The Angel Company Monthly Contests. I decided to enter the "All I Want for Christmas" category and made this book. I thought it would be fun to make a book using the "Christmas Wish List" stamp set that would help keep track of my family and friend's Christmas wish list ideas.

I used my new favorite cardstock "Reece". Ironically just before I left for the Post Office to mail it I had this horrible thought - I had used a retired stamp set. I was so sad. I found out that my thoughts were correct and I couldn't send it in. I'm trying to focus on the positive side - at least I still get to keep it and can use it this Christmas.

A Little Hello - TP Album

2009-10-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to remember when I first saw an adorable album that was made using empty toilet paper rolls. I decided to make one today and it was so much fun. All supplies used are from The Angel Company. FYI - I used beige cardstock for the inside tags however they appear more white from scanning. The cardstock I used is call "Reece" (I love it) and the stamps are called "Life Thoughts", "Sail Away" and "Be Square". I really love these owls - they are just adorable.

Altered Key Chains - Holiday Craft Bazaar

2009-10-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

Wow!! It's hard to believe that its been almost a month since I have added anything to my blog. I have been extremely busy making lots of projects for a Holiday Craft Bazaar that I was a part of last weekend. I decided to share a few of the altered key chains that I made to sell. These are super quick and easy to make and they were a huge hit at the craft bazaar. All supplies used are from The Angel Company. These photographs show the front and back of each key chain. As soon as I have a chance to go through the rest of the photographs of the items I made I will post them. Thanks for looking!

Altered Bird House and September TAC Contest Winner

2009-09-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

This is a small wooden bird house that I finally took the time to play with and altered. I love the finished project. I used cardstock from the Mia's Cottage Collection from The Angel Company, acrylic paint and buttons. This really is a quick and easy project.

I also found out earlier today that I was one of the September contest winners for The Angel Company. I've included the link - I hope you will take a moment and check out my winning entry and the other contest winner projects as well.

http://www.theangelcompany.net/CW_Sept09_ThisisUs.html

Thanks for looking!!

Altered Coasters

2009-09-06T15:47:00.000-07:00

These are some old ceramic coasters that I found at a thrift store. I scooped them up and finally decided to take the leap and altered them. I am really torn on whether I am totally happy with the finished project or not. The coasters on the top right and bottom left are my favorites. I kind of wish I had stamped more images on the other two. I can't make any changes now but that's okay. I will probably use them as paper weights anyway. Your thoughts??

The TAC products used in this project are:

"Amberley Grace" cardstock from the Soar With It Collection

"Swirlies" stamp set

"Life Thoughts" stamp set

Palette Ink - Burnt Umber

and finally Mod Podge to seal the tops and sides of each coaster.

100% Boy

2009-09-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

I finally got this old canister altered this afternoon. All products (except the canister) are from The Angel Company. I used the following products:

Kaleidoscope Boyz Cardstock (V921)

Hoppy Everything Stamp Set (T2732)

Wonder Tape (F241)

Palette Noir Ink (T220)

Miscellaneous red ribbon.

I wrapped the paper around the canister using Wonder Tape. I attached the red ribbon around edge of lid. I stamped the little frog on green cardstock, cut him out and attached him to the bottom of the canister using mounting tape. I used the cardstock stickers to spell out my grandson's name. I think it turned out really cute. What do you think??

Altered Recipe Box #2

2009-09-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

This is another recipe box that I altered last weekend. Although this box was already cute with the bird on it I really wanted to change the look with some pretty cardstock. but I decided I really wanted to use some TAC papers instead. I attached the cardstock to the box with Wonder. Stamped with images on cardstock and punched them out. Attached to box and added the button.

This really is a quick and easy project. I think I will finish altering all the other boxes I have and use them at workshops.

TAC Products Used:

"Angelee" Cardstock from the Soar With It Collection

"All Things of Nature" - Stamp Set

"Life Thoughts" - Stamp Set

"Jumbo Java" - Versa Magic Ink

Mega Scalloped Circle Punch

Giga Scalloped Circle Punch

Wonder Tape

Miscellaneous Products:

Ribbon

Buttons

Lace

Recipe Box

Altered Recipe Box

2009-09-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

Here are before and after photographs of another item I altered this past weekend. This is a recipe box that I found on clearance for 50 cents a while ago. I thought it would be fun to give it a new look. I decided not to use any stamps and just use cardstock and miscellaneous items. This is another quick and easy project. I had so much fun making this one that I made another one which I will post at another time. I just wish this cardstock wasn't discontinued.

A Sneak Peek.....

2009-09-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

Here is a before photo of something that I altered this past weekend. I thought it would be fun to give you a sneak peek at this before I post the finished project in a few days. This is another dollar item I found at a craft store (a long time ago) that I have been wanting to alter. I just haven't taken the time to do it. In case you can't tell what this item is - it is a 4.25" by 6.25" wooden placque. I think the princess is cute but I am really excited about my finished project and can't wait to share it with you. This was a quick and easy project.

Workshop Gift Ideas

2009-08-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to create some little projects that I can use as thank you gifts at my workshops. I decided to alter some 2010 planners that I found at a craft store.

TAC Products Used:

"Willoughby" cardstock from the Soar With It Collection"

"All Things Of Nature" stamp set.

"Just Because" stamp set.

"Jumbo Java" Ink from Versa Magic

Mega Scalloped Circle Punch

Giga Scalloped Circle Punch

The small containers I also found at craft store and are 2" tall & 2" in diameter. I wrapped them in cardstock using Wonder Tape and added some bling to the flowers and circles.

TAC Products Used:

"Mia's Cottage" from the Soar With It Collection

Miscellaneous Products:

Stickles

Rhinestones

Small White Container

"More Mimi" Cardstock" from the Soar With It Collection.

Miscellaneous buttons and ribbon and silver container.

Only problem is that I regret not getting more of these containers before they were gone.

and ends with this ..... (Part One)

2009-08-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

This is the first of two wooden coaster sets that I am making albums out of. I will share the second one as soon as it is finished. The original post was on August 8th showing what the wooden coasters looked like before I altered them.

The biggest challenge was having to decide which photographs of Hercules I was going to use. My goal was to try and tell a story of his typical day with the photographs as much as possible. It was disappointing that I couldn't use all of them but some are better than none. There was very little wiggle room in the coaster holder itself so I wasn't able to use any embellishments on the coasters.

This is still an album that makes me smile because Hercules is my sweet little co-pilot. The rest of the photographs are below.

Thanks for looking at this altered project and I hope you will come back soon!!

and ends with this..... (Part Two)

2009-08-23T18:10:00.000-07:00

I think the last photo is one of my favorites. Even though I wasn't able to get a photograph of his face I think this photo still shows how he is just soaking up everything that is going on around him. The sun is setting in front of him as he sits there looking around his own little kingdom of joy. He loves his back yard and it's as if he is saying a prayer of thanks each night as he takes one final look before coming indoors for the evening.

"Want to Fly" Altered 4" x 4" Canvas

2009-08-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

A friend of mind wanted an altered canvas for her desk at work. She loves butterflies almost as much as I do. One of her favorite cardstocks is from the Winchester Collection (V-835) so I used that to cover the front of both canvas pieces (before attaching them together). I inked the edges of each canvas to tone down the white edge with Versa Magic in "Eggplant." (S-963). I cut some DCWV cardstock into 3.75" x 3.75"and attached them to the insides of the canvas and then attached the canvas pieces together with the hinges. I cut two 3.5" x 3.5" squares out of being cardstock and stamped the images in Versa Magic "Spanish Olive" (S-959).

I created the bottom border on the canvas with the quote on it by using the edges only of the same set used on the opposite canvas. I used Wonder Tape (F-237) to attach the ribbon and cardstock to the canvas. I stamped the butterfly from the "Want to Fly" stamp set (T-3046) in Spanish Olive, attached it to the canvas and added ribbon to continue the line across the entire canvas.

For the front I punched scallop circles using the Mega Scalloped Punch (D-700) and Giga Scalloped Circle Punch (D-701). I stamped "Just Because" (T-2899) in Versa Magic Eggplant), added a large eyelet, ribbon and attached to the front canvas. I added bling to the flower centers and I was done. All supplies are from The Angel Company. It was so much fun making this altered canvas that I am going to make a similar one for own desk at work.

Elephant - Quick, Easy & Fun

2009-08-21T20:40:00.001-07:00

This is the final quick and easy card that I made using the "Take Pride" (T-1102) stamp set from The Angel Company. It can be challenging at times to come up with ideas for masculine cards and this is another one of my favorite sets that is perfect for all occasions for men.

Inspiration Alley from The Angel Company

2009-08-19T21:10:00.000-07:00

The New Inspiration Alley Fall Supplemental Catalog is almost here. I'm anxiously waiting for my copy to arrive - they were mailed out yesterday. There are 42 new stamp sets in this catalog which is more than the number of new stamps featured in The Angel Company Base Catalog. I will be posting updates as soon as possible.

One More Simple and Quick Card

2009-08-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

This card was made using Birthday Wishes (T-2941) and cardstock from the Catelynne (V-851) Collection.

And last but not least the links for the Angels involved in this Blog Hop are listed under the PaperWings Banner Link.

I hope you will take a little time and check out their blogs.

Thanks for visiting my blog and please come back soon.

Variety Pack of Cards - Simple and Quick

2009-08-18T20:36:00.001-07:00

I'm participating in my first Angel Blog Hop and really looking forward to it. This is a group of wonderful women (Angels) and our goal is to share cards and projects we've made using products from the newest TAC catalog.

I'll be adding the links of all these wonderful angels in just a while so check back soon and then do some blog hopping of your own by checking out their blogs for some great ideas.

These are a variety of Quick and Simple cards made with products from The Angel Company.

I really like this stamp set. This card was made using Hieroglyph Horses (T-2836) stamp set and cardstock from the Hemingway (V-836) collection. I use this set a lot to make masculine cards.

This card was made using the Petal Pack (T-2638) stamp set and cardstock from the Miss Moxie (V-841) collection.

This one was made using the Hoppy Everything (T-2732) stamp set and cardstock from the Hip Hop (V-850) Fly With It Collection. I used some of the cardstock to paper piece the frog instead of coloring the frog.

It beings with this.............

2009-08-08T19:05:00.001-07:00

These are a set of wooden coasters stored inside a wooden box that I found on clearance at JoAnn's. The design on the coasters aren't my style however I had an idea when I saw them and brought them home. I am in the process of altering them into something I love. I thought it would be fun to have a little teaser which is why I am only showing these photos to begin with. I will post the finished item as soon as I am done.

Curious???

For the Love of Butterflies

2009-08-04T21:08:00.001-07:00

These are cards I made over the weekend. The first and last cards were ones I was going to enter into the Terrific Trio Contest with The Angel Company. I chose three other ones to enter the contest and keeping my fingers and toes crossed that I might win. I really do love butterflies and use this stamp set a lot. All products are from The Angel Company. I'm not sure that I am finished with the bottom card yet. I'm still working on that one and will post an update if I make any changes to it.

Journals

2009-08-04T20:48:00.001-07:00

I have had a love affair with journals all my life. The only thing that has changed is that I love making themself instead of buying them. The first photograph is a journal I found at the dollar spot at Michael's and the second one is a small composition notebook. The rest of the supplies I used are from The Angel Company.

Hercules beats the heat

2009-07-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up to find Hercules sleeping directly in front of the fan. It's been extremely hot this past week and staying cool has been a challenge. I managed to snap a photo of him sleeping almost flattened against the blanket with the fan blowing his fur. He looked so cute and was sleeping so peacefully and I liked how his fur looked from the breeze of the fan. He usually snuggles with me however it was obvious he hadn't moved at all during the night. He has so much fur it's hard to keep him cool. It made me smile to discover that he had found the perfect spot to beat the heat and make it through another night and without taking any of the benefit of the fan away from me.

Updated photo of altered box

2009-07-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

From this to that...

2009-07-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

This is a wooden box that I have had for quite a while. I have always wanted to alter it and finally decided to get it done. I used some beautiful cardstock called Willoughby from The Angel Company and covered the box piece by piece. I used Modge Podge to adhere the paper to the box and then sealed the box with another layer of Modge Podge.

Originally it was going to be a box to hold greeting cards or maybe a small album but that was no longer possible. All the cardstock made the lid to thick to easily slide back and forth into the box itself. In order to make it into a usable project I forced the lid on knowing that I would never be able to remove the lid again. I ended up chipping off a piece of the wood from the lid of the box and used the flower to cover it up. I still like how pretty it looks and it's now sitting on my scrapbook table. My only regret is that I didn't take a photograph of how pretty it looked inside the box before it was sealed forever.

I really wish the last photograph showed just how pretty this box is. I'm going to try and get a better photo later today.

Fashion Show by Hercules

2009-07-21T19:57:00.001-07:00

Once a week Hercules and I visit mom and last night I decided to add an extra element of surprise to our visit. As you can see by the photographs Hercules made quite the fashion statement when we walked through the door. The look on all the ladies faces was priceless. They were smiling, laughing and a few of them screamed with admiration when they saw him. There is so much joy in watching how such a little guy can bring so much joy to so many people's lives. Best of all is the look of joy on his grandma's face as she is parading him around sharing him with all her roomies. And I can't forget the patience of Hercules as he is being loved and admired by so many adoring women.

Butterfly Swirls

2009-07-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

I love butterflies and this butterfly is from one of my favorite Angel Company stamps. I used Angelee Cardstock; the Butterfly Swirls stamp set; white organza ribbons, misc. buttons and some string. I was going to enter this card in the Terrific Trio Contest this month but came up with another one instead (which I will share later).

Memories and Mom

2009-07-16T21:15:00.001-07:00

I have this childhood memory of mom coming to my school and my classmates telling me how pretty she was. I was so happy. Forty six years later I still remember that moment as if it had happened yesterday. Memories - to me that's what life is all about. I created scrapbook albums for my loved ones before it was popular. I think part of why this is so important to me is that I don't remember a lot of details from my childhood and didn't want that to happen any more. And so began my love affair with journaling and creating albums - anything to help me remember the moments in time that were making up the story of my life and as one of a kind gifts for my loved ones. Memories of the times spent with my daughters, my grandsons, friends, family, the jobs I've had and don't have any more, my accomplishments and yes, even the times of challenges, struggles and heartache. Every memory from my life has helped shaped who I am and are a part of me and each of those memories are precious to me.

It was a little over a year ago that mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and I have watched this disease rob mom of her memories and it's heartbreaking. Once a week I wash and style her hair. She is a woman that has always taken great pride in her appearance. She never walked out of the house without her makeup on or a single hair out of place. She has deep blue eyes, a smile that lights up the room, an infectious laugh and the most beautiful shade of gray hair I have even seen. I always ask her if she thinks I will be lucky enough to have the same shade of gray hair one day and she just smiles at me. In third grade I thought mom was pretty but today I see just how stunning she is.

This past Sunday I was talking with mom while she was eating her breakfast. I told her that I had brought her some cinnamon coffee cake from Starbucks (it's her favorite) and how it was full of cinnamon. She looked at me with puzzled and perplexed eyes and asked - "Do I like cinnamon". "Yes" I said and she asked "how come I don't remember that". And it was at that moment that I felt like someone had just kicked me in the gut wearing combat boots. It broke my heart!!!

Preserving memories has taken on a whole new meaning for me now. I still want to create a life full of memories not only for me but for everyone that I love and cherish but I also want to leave a legacy of memories of times spent with everyone that I love so that they have lives full of good memories too.

Altered Clipboards

2009-07-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

In the past 3 years I have altered more than 100 clipboards. A couple of years ago I altered 50 of them to give to children that were patients at Children's Hospital in Seattle. The others were sold at a Holiday Craft Bazaar. The Paris clipboard is my favorite - I have been offered some serious bucks for this one but I will NOT part with it. The other one I really like because it's purple and has flowers. I decided that tonight I was going to share these clipboards on my blog to show something different. There are no stamped images on these clipboards - just something I altered which is actually one of my most favorite things to do.

A Work in Progress

2009-07-14T19:44:00.001-07:00

This is a glass cabinet that I found on clearance at Michael's well over a year ago. Each square is 4" x 4". I have decided I am going to alter it and turn it into a family album (of sorts). It's my daughter Lynette that seems to find the best clearance items (especially at Target) but I was the lucky one this day. Now I just need to decide how I am going to alter it, which family photos and embellishements to use. If you have any ideas just send them my way.

"Just To Cool For School"

2009-07-14T18:42:00.001-07:00

This is a card I made from a small paperbag. I used the "Pop Rockz" cardstock and the "Little Friends" stamp set from The Angel Company. What makes me smile are the sunglasses on the CHICK.

A couple of years ago I made over 200 cards to help raise money for the Susan G Komen Foundation so that I could walk in the 3 day 60 mile breast cancer walk. I sent a box of handmade cards to my sister Dana in Medford, Oregon so that she could sell them. As soon as Dana received the cards she called me laughing saying that as soon as she saw the "chick" she thought she was "Just to cool for school." Every time I see this card I chuckle because I actually agree with my sister.

I had been wanting to use the sunglass buttons for a long time and late one night it was as if my brain had put all the pieces of the puzzle together while I slept. I woke up happy and excited and couldn't wait to make my first card. I just knew that the sunglasses were going to be a perfect fit. This chick with sunglasses turned out to be one of my best selling cards. The other one was a cute little pig (from this same stamp set) that had a pearl necklace around her neck. Dana would call me and say - "send more pigs".

It was a busy time for me and I lost a lot of sleep but it was fun, challenging, I was able to walk the 60 miles and finally able to use those sunglasses.

2009-07-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

My challenge was to make a card using as many recycled items from around my home as possible. I found a piece of cardboard and pulled off the top layer to give the corrugated look and cut it to the size of a card. I used some scraps of cardstock, stamped the images and tied a piece of string around it. The stamps are from The Angel Company and unfortunately they were recently retired. It's not the most elegant looking card but it was simple and fun to put together.

4 x 4 Post It Note Holder

2009-07-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in order to get my creativity flowing I need to make something that gives me some instant gratification. I came across these 4" x 4" post it notes in one of my supply boxes and decided to make a quick holder for it.

I used the Mia's Cottage TAC cardstock and the Spring Flowers and Bookoo Blessingings stamp sets. I used colored pencils and some Stickles to add a little bling.

Simple yet fun and it was a great way to get me inspired to get a lot more done over the past weekend.

I will be sharing some of those items a little later this week. Have a blessed day!!

Friendship Hanging Frame

2009-07-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

This is another item I made for a TAC contest. I made each frame from chipboard, cut out the centers and then covered each piece with the Lily Anna Cardstock from TAC. The stamp set is called "Seeds of Blessings". I used eyelets and then some cord to piece it all together. Each frame measures 3" x 3". I also used some of the Shimmery Chalks to color and highlight the stamped images and words and Stickles for a little bling.

I didn't win the contest but it was featured on the Savvy Projects Blog on May 23rd. There are a lot of great ideas on this blog so check it out sometime. Just click on the The Angel Company website link and click on the Savvy projects link and do some exploring.

Simple Journal

2009-07-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

I found this journal for a buck at Michael's. I have a tendency to stalk the dollar spots at JoAnn's, Michael's and Target and have found some interesting items to alter and just have fun with.

I entered this journal in a TAC contest. I didn't win the contest but it still was fun to make and it was featured on the Angels Only Showcase Blog which was a nice surprise. I used one of my favorite TAC stamp sets - "Deco Designs" and the Sands of Time Cardstock.

Times passes so quickly

2009-07-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to me that almost three months have passed since I wrote on my blog. That is going to change. The last several months have been full of surprises, challenges and miracles. I have made a promise to myself that I will be giving more focus to this blog because it is important to me.

I have started writing in my journal again and I am carrying my camera with me (no matter where I go) and I feel like I have found a piece of my heart again. It's a part of me that I do not want to lose again.

I have finally taken my daughters advice and changed the photograph on my blog. One of the things I love about my tiny place in this big world is my view of Lake Washington. I loved the photograph of the snow but it's summer now and full of new possibilities and dreams. I also decided to take things one step further and changed the look of my blog. This is still a work in progress but it's also time to find my new wings and discover where they are going to take me.

And one day I may even be writing updates on my blog from Paris. Now that is an exciting thought!!

I will be posting cards and other projects I have made using rubberstamps from The Angel Company.

This blog is still under construction so please stop by often.

It's finished...

2009-07-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

This chest is finally finished and I love it!! I kept thinking I had to add stamped images or something but in all honesty - I have a tendency to lean towards the more simple and hopefully more elegant look. I struggled with this decision for quite a while and I just reached the point where I wanted this chest finished. I decided to add the knobs and I knew I was done.

The only problem is that I'm hooked on doing this type of altering and I'm already trying to figure out how I am going to alter another chest of drawers that I have. The paper I used to cover the drawers are from The Angel Company. One of the things I love best is the bottom drawer that shows the Eiffel Tower - I want to go to Paris!!!!! It's a big dream and goal of mine.

The Power of Cheese

2009-04-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

This is a video of my little Hercules and the Power of Cheese. I am breaking my own rules by using cheese to entice him to perform however it was the only way I could get him to perform his tricks on video and without a crowd around us. Sometimes rules are meant to be broken and this is definitely one of those times. And thanks to my darling daughter Lynette who helped make this video. She also helped get a couple of other tricks on video that I will share at another time. This little trick (behavior) is usually something Hercules does when he is sitting in the seating area of a shopping cart and some one is coming towards us screaming (as if they had just seen one of the Beatles) "Oh my gosh he is the cutest dog". That's when I tell Hercules to say hello and he begins waving his paws like he does in the video which of course gets him even more attention.

I think one of the reasons I want to get some of his tricks on video is because one day (hopefully not for another 20 years) I will have to say goodbye to my little guy and I desperately want to find ways to keep as many memories of him as possible. This little guy brings so much joy and love into my life. He loves attention and he knows how to turn on the charm to get it. He has not only brought joy into my life but into the lives of so many other people. He has fans all around the U.S. and he may be tiny in size but his heart is HUGE and is such a blessing in my life. I always tell him that God created him especially for me.

Thank you Lynette for getting this video (and the other ones) for me. 1437

Tribute to my best friend Bob

2009-04-06T21:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Bob's birthday!! I decided since I can't celebrate his birthday with him I thought I would write a tribute to him. He was an amazing man and I miss him terribly!!

************************************

My Dearest Bob

I miss you!! I think of you everyday. I can't watch Prince of Tides without remembering how that was "our" first movie and how you made me promise that I would never watch that movie with anyone but you. That movie opened up a lot of painful memories for me but from that first moment that you held me close while I cried - I knew you were my safe place.

It was because of your unconditional love for me that I learned to love and trust again. Words can never express how much I appreciated you ALWAYS being there for me. I have a heart full of priceless and precious memories because of you. Memories that always put a smile on my face and a song in my heart. You were such a wonderful, compassionate and loving man.

I remember how we danced that one New Year's Eve and you held up my dress because it kept slipping off my shoulders and all without missing a beat as you twirled me around the dance floor. I remember thinking how beautifully you could dance. And just before I left you gave me a single rose and said - "Happy New Year Sweetness". Oh, how I loved that nickname and I will never forget the last time we talked and you said - "I will always love you Sweetness".

You were my protector. You were always there to celebrate the highs and lows of life with me. You are my hero. You were my safe place. You were my biggest fan. I was so blessed that you a part of my life.

I will love you forever and always. I miss you so much!!!

Thank you for touching my life and my heart in such a special and lasting way. I know you are still watching over me and one day I will get to see you again.

******************************************

I was so lucky to have met Bob so many years ago. Thankfully he was part of God's plan for my life. He was an amazing man and it's sad that he had to die at such a young age.

I remember talking to him one night when he called to talk about his upcoming heart surgery that following morning. He told me he was afraid that he wouldn't survive. I didn't give much thought to that comment because it's normal for anyone going through surgery to have concerns or fears about not surviving. I did what I could to reassure him but I don't know how successful I was. Little did I realize that the next day I would get a phone call telling me that he was in a coma. There had been complications from his surgery. I couldn't believe it and I was a 1,000 miles away. I called every day to check on him and was told he wasn't getting any better - the doctor said his prognosis wasn't good. I finally asked the nurse if she would put the phone up to his ear so I could talk with him. I wasn't expecting him to answer me but I knew he would hear me and I had some things I wanted to tell him. As I talked with him I had to choke back the tears and to the surprise of the doctors and nurses he woke from his coma when he heard my voice. And all he said was - "I love you sweetness - forever and always" and I told him I felt the same and he was gone. His death was so painful for me - to be honest at times it still is. He truly was a good man and I am so blessed that I was a part of his life.

My Scrap Happy Place

2009-03-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

I love my scrapbook area. It's been a challenge getting everything organized since I live in a tiny place. Ironically the more organized I get the more challenging it becomes to find the things I know I have. My best friend Hazel always tells me that I am the most organized disorganized person she knows (and now I know what she's talking about). It can be very frustrating.

One of the things I love best about my craft area is my view. I am really looking forward to the warmer weather so that I can leave my sliding glass door open and look at my beautiful view as I am working on my creative endeavors. I'm also hoping that this will help provide some much needed muse. I've felt a little creative dry spell lately.

A new look for an old piece of furniture.....

2009-03-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

I finally did it - I have been wanting to do something to alter the appearance of this 3 drawer chest for quite some time now. It has taken several attempts but I am finally happy with the results.

I used one of my favorite cardstocks from The Angel Company called Amberley Grace. I used Matte Mod Podge to adhere the paper to the drawers and will add a couple more coats to seal and protect. I love it!!! All I need to figure out now is what kind of knobs to add plus I still think the drawers need something else but what??

If you have any ideas or suggestions please share them with me.

My Little Guy

2009-03-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite photographs of my little Hercules. He is such a sweetheart and I've always wanted him to have his own yard. I was determined that one day that dream would come true and in August of 2008 it finally became a reality.

That's why I love this photo so much. It's the look on his face that melts my heart because somehow he knows that he is finally King of his own yard. Ironically he has no idea that this isn't a large yard but to a 5 pound Pomeranian it's huge.

He has been such a blessing in my life and I love to see him so happy!!!