life is yummy.

Crazy what Pinterest can inspire

2012-01-23T06:51:00.002-07:00

I have been so crazy inspired by my Pinterest finds. Just so much color and beauty. The trick is, to spend a little time there and then turn off the monitor and MAKE SOMETHING, instead of just pinning for hours on end.

I don't usually watch tv or movies when I scrap but for the past week I have closed the door to my little room and while creating, was watching the Harry Potter films from start to finish on my imac. Guess who ended up cramming into this tiny little room with only one comfortable chair? Conner and Jameson. It was so fun watching the movies again and in order. How I love Harry Potter.

I need another book obsession. Not the twilight series. I tried and just couldn't feel the love there. Someone suggested The Hunger Games? Any other series you might be loving? I want to get lost in a book. It's cold and snowy and my cupboard is stocked with tea. What are you reading?

Pinterest Challenge for January

2012-01-18T07:37:00.001-07:00

This is a layout I lifted from Emi Parczewska or noomiy on flickr. She is so very talented. I added her to my paper love board and then used this quote.

This photo is of my Mom and Dad when they were on their honeymoon. They were married for 28 years before he died of cancer. I was so happy to scrap this moment in their lives.

The challenge thread is here. You don't have to subscribe to Cocoa Daisy or even use a kit for the challenge. But if you win, you get a 10 dollar voucher for the store. Cocoa Daisy is now carrying all kinds of stamps and supplies like mists, paints, inks and the wonderful stamps that are exclusive to Cocoa Daisy. It's all in the boutique.

Snow is on the ground, it's cold outside and I have a clean studio. I just might be doing some crafting tonight after work!

What comes next?

2012-01-06T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am feeling really excited about 2012. I have some wonderful plans that I am working on to move my business into a new level. I am so excited about it. It is doable and it will be such a benefit to my family. It is hard right now because during the transition it means more work for me but Bill is helping me and we are getting it done. I am thinking outside the box, using my hard work and talents to take things further and I am super proud of that.

I have been thinking a lot about how things have evolved for us, for me. It's been such a difficult road. I will be honest, Bill and I have always had a pretty traditional marriage and it has worked for us. Our roles were clearly defined and we both enjoyed what they were. He was the provider and I was the homemaker. Both are such important jobs. They keep a family strong. Then things changed for us so drastically with the move and it was really difficult for us to adjust. I think we both fought the changes for a long time, longing for things to be the way they were because that was the right way. I realize now that was just us being stubborn and not seeing what was right in front of us.

I started cleaning houses out of desperation. We needed money. It has developed slowly and steadily into a lucrative business that supports our family. That wasn't the plan exactly. I thought I would just do it to make money while Bill kept looking for work. Now four years later, here we are. This expansion will move slowly, I want to build my commercial business the way I built my housekeeping business. With the right clients. I also have excellent hiring resources and will be able to eventually provide a good job for the right person. This will be for some security for my family, for the future. I really didn't think any of that was possible four years ago.

I am so humbled and grateful for everything that has happened. If we hadn't been through what we did, I would still be enjoying my life as a stay at home mom and yet our future would not have been as bright. Everything does happen for a reason.

Favorites for 2011

2011-12-31T16:27:00.001-07:00

This last one is my favorite for the year. It has been the hardest year of my marriage. I can honestly say I never thought I could feel the way I do right now, this past spring. I love Bill more now than I ever have, but man, it was hard. I know a lot of people don't talk about such personal things but I don't really give a crap. This is my life. It's hard and complicated some times. I like to take pretty pictures and make pretty things but that isn't my life everyday. I have a real life. Which means there are real problems too.

So many things have happened this year, so many things have changed. I feel like I am in a different place as a wife and a mother. My business is doing amazingly well and I am kicking around the idea of expanding. We'll see. I am working more now than ever and yet I have so much energy and am really inspired creatively. I have a million ideas in my head and not having the time to try them actually inspires me all the more. I have high hopes (low expectations) for the next year. There are no promises are there? We must take each day as it comes, to see it as a gift. Live a life to be proud of, no matter what our circumstances. Cheers to that. Happy 2012.

Tea and Cupcakes at Cocoa Daisy

2011-12-29T08:44:00.001-07:00

The January kit is up HERE. My favorite add on was red velvet. It has some Sassafrass Lass in it that I will miss when it's all gone. This kit gave me a vintage feel and I have been using some older photos. I have a few projects on my desk as well and the photos are less than perfect, blurry in fact. The mystery and delight of imperfection!

I have been kicking around the idea of deconstruction in my pages. I always love the More is More layouts of Christine Middlecamp. Her amazing layers that go on forever. The truth is, it's really hard for me to keep going. I always have this stop button that goes off in my head. Sometimes I work past it and do keep going but it is not automatic. I also really love the look of modern vintage. Like collage that looks like it's been stepped on and left out in the rain for days on end. Buried in dead leaves.

There are so many amazing scrapbookers out there. I have found this one recently and she is really inspiring me with images I feel I have had in my head for a long time. Her name is Mummka? she is from Poland and has a beautiful blog HERE. That's where I got the scribbles from. I have done them before on pages but not quite so haphazardly. I have always tried to control them. Not this time. My favorite artists in the world? Children. I love the art they create. So free, without plans.

Anyway, bit of a ramble. off to work. have a good day!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

I wasn't able to post earlier. I actually was down just before Christmas with a stomach bug. Not fun but at least I was feeling better Christmas eve and Christmas day. There were things that didn't get done that didn't really matter. It was fine. We had a beautiful, relaxing celebration and as usual, I was brought to tears by how happy and grateful my son's are with so little. It is awesome to watch.

We are so lucky. Each year at this time I feel overwhelmed by how blessed I am to have this wonderful, messy, beautiful, wonky life. What a gift. I hope your holidays have been filled with that feeling and that no matter what struggles you might be facing, or what fears you might feel that they are tempered by love.

See you soon.

First we'll make snow angels for a two hours, then we'll go ice skating, then we'll eat a whole roll of Tollhouse Cookiedough as fast as we can, and then we'll snuggle.

2011-12-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

A little last minute gift that I made for one of my sister's. I mailed out a few packages on monday filled with peanut brittle and rugelach. It's been a busy week, an exhausting week. Not enough sleep and too many hours of work but there is a light and I can see it!

Our house is warm and decorated, we are safe and healthy. What amazing gifts. I feel so fortunate.

Last weekend I was working at the restaurant and there was a moment just before the rush when I just sat down at a table, no one was in the dining room. It was a quiet spot by the tree. I just sat there for a minute or two. My mind completely blank, my spirit open. I sat and stared at the lights and listened to my breath in and out and my heart beat. It was so peaceful. I was amazed that I don't do that enough. Just sit, and not think about a million things at once. In that stillness I found so much energy. It was exactly what I needed.

"I just like to smile, smiling's my favorite."

2011-12-05T07:31:00.001-07:00

Love this photo so much. You can't tell by the angle of this photo but my son Conner is at least 6 inches taller than me. It's pretty sweet to have to reach up and give him a hug.

Being a mom to teenagers is something that came as a surprise to me. Luckily we change and grow so slowly over a period of years, and many of the changes happen so gradually but still, it feels like I woke up one day and BAM, there were these two men in my house. They are taller than me and have these low, manly voices. It is strange and wonderful.

They argue and are moody some days. They leave there socks about and complain when they have to do chores. They don't like when I say things that embarrass them, about girls or sex.

They are also so interesting, and smart about the world. They have things to say and opinions and ideas that both thrill and frighten me a little. (in a good way) They are awesome.

"What's a Christmas Gram? I want one."

2011-12-03T11:42:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year. I randomly quote from the movie "ELF"

Can't help myself. It's just one of those things. If you don't like it, there is something wrong with you.

More pages created with the December kit from Cocoa Daisy.

There are a few left, so get on it! A little Christmas Cheer for you.

What is on your December list so far? Lots of things I am sure. I sometimes feel this low level of anxiety when I let myself think about it. Then I stop. Really, it's no big deal is it?

Ha. Christmas is huge. HUGE. 54 Billion dollars huge. Think about that for a minute. 54 billion dollars. so far.

Did you know that on average americans spend 450 Billion dollars on Christmas. What is included in that figure? credit card debt for many, rushing, pepper spray, stress, lots of junk we don't need, traffic, stress, more stress.

I am not a scrooge. I love Christmas. I love presents. (grey cashmere sweater wrap Santa please?) I love giving presents. But not out of obligation. Not to my dear friends and family that don't need anything or really want anything. Not another sweater, or Santa cookie jar. You know what I mean.
How wonderful to make presents, gifts of time and love. To write a letter to someone, or a story. To take photos for friends or family. To take time with children to make ornaments or cookies for someone special.

I know there are a lot of people that don't really get these kinds of gifts. They want the random gift card or sweater from Old Navy. They don't care if we put thought or heart into their gifts. They just want them. It takes courage to say no to them. To explain that you are spending less on Christmas and giving more heart, more time, more love. They may not like it.

It takes courage. But when you realize that Christmas really can make a difference, that if you spend less and actually give more of yourself, you are truly inspired by the spirit of Christmas. I think it's worth it. And then you can take just a little that you didn't spend and give it away. To your local food bank, a women's shelter or maybe toward building wells for clean drinking water.

I have played this video for the past couple of years. I am not trying to be preachy, it just really helps put my mind and heart in the right place this time of year. I hope it does the same for you.

Amber Snowflake

2011-11-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

December's new kit from Cocoa Daisy is up for sale. I love it so much. It went perfectly with our holiday photos we took after Thanksgiving. My favorite thing from the main kit is that sparkly glitter tape. I want to make a dress out of it!

Here's a peak of the main kit.

The add ons are wonderful as well. Lots of gold, light blue and touches of red. Perfect Christmas colors this year. I will be back with more layouts from the kit.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T11:00:00.001-07:00

So grateful and I admit, a little tired this morning. What an amazing life this is. Not picture perfect. We have sad days, and bad days. Sometimes we are less than polite. We grump about. We wish for more or better than what we have. Then suddenly, in the clear bright light of something I can only describe as grace, we see our life for what it is. Awesome. Just because we have it. Just because we woke up and made a choice to be grateful. Gratitude makes for a happier life. The funny thing is, you can't wait for happiness to arrive first to be grateful. It doesn't work that way.

Despite the things I wish were easier, maybe better, I am so grateful. This is a mad, crazy, messy life I have. I love it. That makes me happy, that gives me hope that no matter what, I will be okay. We'll be okay.

Happy Thanksgiving. I hope you have a great one. Thank you to all of you that cheer me on, and share your thoughts and feelings to. I really believe it makes the world seem less scary, more hopeful and friendly. THANK YOU.

"Santa!!!! I know him, I know him!"

2011-11-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

A little post about some Christmas shopping you could do on line. These are all shops and people I think are awesome. Why shop at Target or Wallmart when you can encourage entrepreneurs who are making or finding such magical things. These are just some ideas. You need to start making your lists for Santa soon so here you go.

You could by this pullover at Stuff Kara Made. So cute. I can think of lots of teenage girls that would love this. Hell, I would love this.

Or you could pick up some of these cool composition notebooks.

Okay then there is some vintage treasure shopping. I love these glasses from French Bleu Vintage.

Adrienne has an eye for the beautiful and unique. What about this little blue onion teapot, reminds me of the set my grandmother had.

She also has gorgeous vintage jewelry and furniture pieces.

How about this crocheted flower brooch over at Inspire Lovely.

I like this grey one.

You can also pin it to a hat. Isn't Debee lovely?

What about a pretty neck warmer? Treehouse28 has some wonderful, cozy clothes.

How about something crafty you need to put together? I LOVE these paper dolls.

They are from a cool little etsy shop called Wool and Water. Here is another set of paper dolls.

I love that bear so much! This would be a cool gift to put together for someone else.

Or this magical, steampunk inspired jewelry by Jewels by Nature.

I love the idea of making gifts for people or at least giving handmade gifts. So much love and creativity goes into these things. And they are unique. It's not another sweater from Old Navy.

If you have some favorite online shops, share a link.

It's in the Burn Folder

2011-11-18T07:54:00.001-07:00

These are the 2 layouts I created with my graffiti class backgrounds. I am going to post the class in it's entirety some time in December but you can still check it out on the Cocoa Daisy message board. Here is the class link.

The very lovely and talented Stephanie, asked a very good question the other day over on the Cocoa Daisy message board. " How do you get it all done?"

I think the answer to that is quite simply, you don't. Or I should say, I don't. It's hard enough to have realistic expectations of our selves and now we are heading into the Holiday Season. Those eight balls you are juggling in the air? well, let's throw about 4 more into the mix. How long can you keep it up?

So I will take a deep breathe, let all the balls fall, and then only pick up the one's that are most important to me. At least for today.

Have a good weekend. I can't wait to finally have some time this weekend to catch up with all of you.

Graffiti 101

2011-11-08T22:19:00.002-07:00

You don't have to subscribe to Cocoa Daisy kits or use a kit for any of the challenges. Just sign up for the message board and you can see all the classes, challenges and chats during the weekend. It's going to be very fun! In this class I will show you how to use spray paint to create some pretty awesome backgrounds for layouts, ATC's and other mixed media projects.

"you have such a pretty face, you should be on a Christmas card."

2011-11-05T08:34:00.000-06:00

So Lucky to have been asked by the lovely Marie to guest design for her kit company, Little Yellow House Kits. Was I blown away by how gorgeous this kit was. Lots of CratePaper, Cosmo Cricket and Jillibean goodies but the most amazing part was the vintage goods she slips into this kit. Library pockets, vintage clothing tags, ribbons, hat pins, and these fantastic red buttons with gold wings in 3 sizes. It's a Christmas dream! Creating with this kit has totally put me in the Christmas mood which is a good thing because it snowed last night.

We in the US can buy Marie's kits as well. Treat yourself to a little Christmas Cheer!

Let's hang out at the Craft Fair

2011-11-03T07:49:00.000-06:00

November 11th, 12th and 13th. Here's the deal, you don't have to subscribe to
Cocoa Daisy to join in on the crop. You don't need to use the kits for the challenges. All you need to do is register for the message board and show up. We have Vicki Boutin, Ali Edwards, Amy Tangerine, Julie Balzer and Lisa Pace all joining us for challenges and chats.

Ronda has graciously created a post on the message board to help you play by explaining the basics. HOW TO PLAY. THE SCHEDULE. and even a PLAYLIST that you can add to and will be posted as a link to play while you scrap with us.

This will be my 3rd crop at Cocoa Daisy and I must tell you, it is a serious good time. At first I didn't quite get how you can "crop" with other people on line. It's like the first time I took an online class, I couldn't imagine how it would work. Well, it does and it is really hilarious, inspiring and so much fun.

Hope you can make it!

Cozy Up with a book and a cup of tea

2011-11-01T17:10:00.001-06:00

Fall is here for sure now. The leaves are so beautiful and falling daily which means there is piles to walk through which is exactly what my grandaughter and I did last night while we were trick or treating for Halloween. No one thought to take pictures but I ended up teasing my hair to ridiculous heights and spraying it orange. I also rocked a black sparkly tutu and some monarch butterfly wings. Not my most creative costume but it was cute. Aubrey was a dark fairy, she is nine and filled with angst already. She isn't too cool though, to sing made up Halloween songs and skip through leaf piles. Happy Halloween!

Bed and Breakfast is the new kit over at Cocoa Daisy. Fun stuff! lots of Amy Tangerine goodies and some awesome Crafter's workshop stencils in the add ons. The Design Team is busy getting ready for our Fall Crop which is happening Nov. 11-13th. but the gallery is still awesome. Here's a couple of mine.

Jameson just got a new bike with these sweet purple/pink metallic rims. The paper worked perfectly.

Went to the library last week and reading Bless Me Ultima. Loving it. Also just finished Skeletons at the Feast. Wonderful, heart breaking book.

Just got disc 1, season 2 of Glee. Hoping to watch some of that tonight.

Thinking of Christmas crafting and gift making.

Trying to remember to wear mittens cuz it's cold.

What's up with you?

Can't Hardly Wait

2011-10-23T14:32:00.003-06:00

Little music in the background by the Replacements.

What have I done today? It's 2pm. I have been busy. sort of. drinking coffee. making chicken soup, glazed chicken drumsticks, wheat free banana bread. Spray painting, laundry and texting my son who is on a hunting trip until late tonight. I have been working on a class for the Cocoa Daisy Crop on November 11-13th.

I have been wishing it would stop raining and that the sun would come out for more than 10 minutes at a time. I have been thinking about fall and how I am not ready for winter.

I have been avoiding the news and wondering how everything is going to work itself out. I wish I could wave a magic wand and fix stuff. I know I can't.

I have been adjusting to a new roll as a mom. With two teenage boys I have been pushed to the passenger seat role. I am still here but more as an advisor and less of a director. They have opinions and ideas all their own. Some of them I am not so sure about, but Bill and I have given them standards and I know they have a moral compass deeply rooted into their hearts. I can only be here and pray and hope for the best.

I have been missing roller derby practice and need to figure out how to do that. I love it. It is wonderful and so much fun but it is a huge commitment and this is a busy time in life for me. I really am not making excuses I just don't have much extra time and it doesn't fit in so well with my schedule. I think it's important for me to be around as much as possible during the week. Working 2 or 3 nights a week makes it hard to practice 2 nights a week. That means little face time with the men in this house. Especially now that they are busy all weekend.

I have been thinking about Christmas and about making presents. I have some great ideas and am excited to start.

I have been dreaming about some future things. Plans that are forming slowly in my head. Not knowing exactly how they will happen or if they could. Just thinking.

What are you doing today?

Carpe Diem

2011-10-13T07:53:00.001-06:00

Another challenge over at Cocoa Daisy. Lisa has been putting together several challenges a month and I have been able to do a few of them which keeps me going creatively.

This one is called Life.
Both Lisa and Anna have created layouts that document a typical day for them.
You could do the same or use a special day, a weekend or even year.
You don't even need to have photos for this one.
Any supplies will work to play along.

Deadline is 26th October - 10pm EST and one winner gets a $10 voucher.

I decided to not focus on a typical day but more about what motivates a typical work day for me. My family. My home. It's the space and time outside my work day that is really my life.

Have an awesome day everyone!

Farmer's Market

2011-10-08T08:57:00.000-06:00

The latest kit at Cocoa Daisy is HERE. The main kit is sold out all ready but the add ons are gorgeous and many still available. Christine has been including a stencil and misting add on each month and they are fantastic. This month is a chicken wire stencil from crafter's workshop.

Last month was the numbers stencil which I used for a layout this month.

Here's another one. Circa 1970 I think. There was no date on the photo but that's me. I am thinking about 3 years old. Looking all crazy eyed with candy. My gosh Jameson looks like me! I don't have many photos of myself as a child, something Conner and Jameson and all my grandchildren will never say.

And here's one of my lovely friends Kip and Gretchen who I have so much fun hanging out with.

We were having lunch at the Old Post on I think, one of the last gorgeous sunny days. I love how the photos turned out, all dreamy and rose colored.

I am still trying to navigate around the new Blogger but I must say I really like it. It is so much more user friendly and posting takes a lot less time. Even for a computer challenged person like me.

I have some favorite things today:

Got my new Cocoa Daisy kit and it's a rainy Saturday.
Feeling really good wheat free and have lost 10 pounds.
Going out to lunch with my friend Gretchen today.
dreaming about a new pair of boots.
Conner and Jameson are getting all A's and B's but still delightfully average.
Going to the library for new books.
started watching reruns of Glee.

Have a great Saturday.

"Maybe there's a trapdoor under my chair and I'll just disappear

2011-09-30T16:14:00.000-06:00

Been reading Franny and Zoey by JD Salinger. Probably one of my favorite books of all time. So good.There is surely no one reading this thing anymore.

Where does all the time go? I can not believe it's been a month since school started for the boys. Or should I say young men? Strangers in my house with very low voices, who eat so much food I may have to get a 3rd job just to keep up. How did I get old enough to have teenagers? I don't feel old enough. They are taller than me and could easily hurt me despite my scrappiness. They wouldn't though. They do love me. And they are still a little afraid of me. I think that's a good thing with teenagers. Kept me out of some trouble when I was a kid.

I have been walking in the sun, sleeping at least 7 hours and trying to go wheat free for the past week. Long story, which I will share when and if I decide to continue. It has been good. I feel so good. Lots of energy and younger than my 44 years. Who knew? I really would like a triscuit though.

Cocoa Daisy is gearing up for our fall crop. It is happening Here on Nov. 11&12th. Crazy, silly fun. You must check it out. We have been having lots of challenges over at Cocoa Daisy as well. Thanks to Lisa S. or funky fairy as her scrappy on line friends know her. I love this girl. Her style is awesome and she is very funny and an amazing baker/cook. Here are a couple of challenges I have completed.

A little lifting

2011-09-09T07:55:00.002-06:00

It's so hard to figure out what to wear these days. It's still hot during the day here in Montana but the mornings and evenings are cold. It's hard to leave the house for the day in flip flops and shorts when it's only 40 degrees. I really don't want summer to end.

We live in an eclectic little section of Missoula with the mountains shooting up from the valley floor behind us and a beautiful creek with cotton wood trees and maples in front of us. The park is 5 minutes from our house and I have loved to walk in the evenings after dinner when I am not working. I usually drag the boys along with me and I get the scoop about school, girls, stuff. I think it's because they don't look at me while we are talking.

Jameson is totally into graffiti right now and has started making his own stencils. Luckily there is a graffiti wall down by the river trail so they can legally practice. I guess all those years of dragging him and Conner around to graffiti spots made an impact.

Conner is settling into high school. It sorta freaks me out but I am trying to stay calm. He loves being older, having a bit more freedom. He was ready.

Bill and I are working hard. So tired some days we don't talk much but we live for the weekends when we can all spend time together.

Grizzly football season has started and so the house is full again pretty much every Saturday for the next few months with grandchildren, children and friends. It's good.

I had posted a gallery lift over at the Cocoa Daisy blog. It was from Gina. I love her messy, magical style. This was her layout.

I love the paint, splatters and the way she clustered all the lovely junk on one side of the photo. This was my attempt.

The photo is of my grandson Bridger. He is a real corker. He never stops, so so busy. It reminds me of Jameson when he was that age.

Printer's Drawer

2011-09-05T08:49:00.003-06:00

On sale at Cocoa Daisy. And my dear friend Gudrun is the guest designer this month. She is a talented artist and mother of 4 lovely children. Four! I wish I could say I could do it but two is more than I can handle some days. Check out her blog there is lots of beautiful stuff there.

I have been having trouble with my camera. I can't seem to get super clear shots anymore. It may need a little TLC I think. Has that happened to anyone before?

It's labor day people. Hope you are all relaxing. I am for a moment and then need to get to work. Although today I am taking my sweet time.

Summer is almost gone. There is a chill in the air at night and in the mornings. I can see just a slight blush on the trees and the light has become different, it has a tiny silvery sheen to it, especially at twilight. The best of the produce is at the farmer's market these days. Corn, melons, eggplant, tomatoes. I could eat just vegetables this time of year. yum.

I may start blogging more often now that school has started and we are in more of a routine. I do miss it. I have a list of books and movies and blogs I want to read. Projects for Christmas. Roller Derby. I want to learn to crochet.

What are you enjoying lately?

It's been so long I forgot my password

2011-08-14T18:01:00.005-06:00

I have photos. Lots and lots of photos. I have stories to. There is the one about Kara coming to visit and feeding her and her adorable friends supper and then going for a blustery walk. How when she walked in the door Bill said, "I know you." and he did. There is the one about Renee's visit from Texas and having 8 days in a row off from work to hang out with her and our kids. There is the one about the farmer's market and rhubarb slushies. There's the one about working with my sons, trying to teach them a good solid work ethic and going bowling- a lot. There's the one about watching Harry Potter in the movie theatre with Conner and Jameson and crying because it made me so happy and sad. And then as we walked out Conner said, " Now what do we do?" There's the one about my husband getting a job and feeling so much better about himself. There's the one about visiting the garden of 1,000 buddhas. So many stories: A float along the clark fork river, a thunder storm over the mission mountains. working so hard my feet hurt to walk the next day. Vivid blue sky and sun for days. flip flops and tan lines. There are stories about things I have made and flowers I planted. Walks I have taken and rivers I have swam in. Oh summer I love you.

I have missed your faces and stories and crafty goodness. I am squeezing the last juicy bit out of summer that I can and then I will be back to read your stories and share mine. Love you guys.

Nothing Lovelier than a summer day

2011-07-11T20:30:00.002-06:00

I love this weather here in Montana. Blue sky every day. Yes it's hot but in the shade it's comfortable. There is usually a little breeze blowing and no humidity. At night you need a sweater or a cozy outdoor fire. Summer is why I put up with the rest of the year here. It really is perfect.

What on earth have I been doing? Well besides the boring and the obvious I have been riding my bike and going for hikes and walks. I have been going to the farmer's market and trying to enjoy my teenagers whenever they let me. Which usually entails watching survivor type shows on tv and eating popcorn. I have been on the computer very rarely. I have missed reading blogs and pretending my life is like pinterest. I have said this before but it is worth mentioning again. Summer is so magical to me, so fleeting and flighty that I feel like I have to pay extra attention because before I know it, it's over.

I want to share some photos I took for my friends from the restaurant I work at. They are a young couple getting married in September and I told them I would take some photos, just for fun, for them. We shot them at the golf course and had a grand time. Of course I don't pretend to know what I am doing but I have a decent camera so I did get some pretty okay ones. They love them so that's all that matters. We dragged the leather wing back chair from the model home into the tall grass and I used those signs from the lodge as well. As a joke I wanted to haul the deer head off the fireplace wall and have some fun with that. It seemed like a good idea but then we realized we needed a ladder. Oh well. Note to self: don't forget the ladder next time.

Lots of good things

2011-06-29T08:58:00.003-06:00

Now's a great time to subscribe to Cocoa Daisy because of a very special Summer promotion. Sign up for a 6-month Cocoa Daisy Subscription and receive 20% off the July kit as well as a coupon good for $5.00 off Ronda's online class “10 Things”.

In this class, taught by Ronda Palazzari, you will receive step by step instructions for a complete mini album project along with many tips and techniques, including a video tutorial.
This adorable mini album created with Cocoa Daisy’s July kit “Urban Loft” and the completer kit (sold as an add-on), is chalk full of tips and techniques. The mini is a lot of fun and you can adapt it to any subject you choose! 10 loves, 10 summer activities, 10 vacation spots, 10 stories….etc! The possibilities are endless! You will find yourself using these tips and techniques over and over on all your projects!
The on-line class will be available July 30th to allow everyone time to receive their July kit and add-ons.

Please note: Purchase of the Cocoa Daisy’s July kit is not required to participate in the class.

By purchasing a subscription you would be guaranteed a July kit which is the kit featured in Ronda's “10 Things” class.

Here's the main kit.

This is the kit that can also be purchased for Ronda's class.

And the add-on's
south loop

telegraph hill

pencil factory

theatre district

Kits go on sale Friday July 1st. They won't last very long I am sure. Especially Ronda's class.

Summer is finally here. I am loving every minute of it. Here's some Urban Loft love.

Urban Loft

2011-06-28T08:07:00.003-06:00

Reveal is tonight. This kit is so gorgeous with all the yellows, grays, and aquas. Delicious. Sunkissed, seventies, and so dreamy.
Go to Cocoa Daisy at 4pm EST to check it out.

"Ill met by moonlight, proud Titania."

2011-06-15T13:18:00.005-06:00

Three more of my Midsummer Night's Dream ATC's. I hope to make one for everyone in the swap, I don't care how many I get I just love making them.

Lots going on. Still not quite summer here in the great northwest. cold and rainy. When the sun does shine it's pretty face at us we die with happiness. Really want some warm weather. We still have buckets of lilacs around. It smells lovely.

Working on my 44 before 45 list inspired by this post by Kara. It's harder than I thought. I keep thinking I need to put things on there that I can actually accomplish but then I stop myself and say, "bullshit Denise-put things on there that seem ridiculous as well." I have to remind myself that this is not another one of my TO DO lists.

I have been ignoring my pinterest love as well. Yes, it is a wonderful escape. A magical place where everything is so lovely and and tastes, smells and looks fantastic. But it's really the matrix. My life doesn't look like one of my pinterest boards but reality is far better than fantasy. At least to me. I will be back pinterest but not for a little while. We need a break.

2011-06-05T17:23:00.002-06:00

There is a wonderful ATC swap blog that has such cool challenges and ATC eye candy. It's called simply ArTistiC.
The new challenge is about birds. This is mine:

I thought I had messed up on the background on this one but I let it dry and kept going and now I am really happy with it. Sometimes mistakes just have to be ignored.

At Cocoa Daisy I am hosting an ATC swap as well called Midsummer Night's Dream. I love that play, so many good quotes. Something about the magic of a summer evening. Here's my first of 3.

It's been so lovely this weekend. Very warm and sunny. The lilacs are in full bloom, my bike has been ridden often and I cleaned out my gross (I mean gross) car. I even took a nap. happy sunday.

Cherry Soda

2011-06-03T07:12:00.002-06:00

Cocoa Daisy's June kit is called Cherry Soda. It has add on's with names like chocolate malt, fruit smoothie, strawberry milkshake and rootbeer float. Making layouts with this one was so easy, I have 3 more in the works sitting on my desk. So many ideas but not enough time.

Here is what I came up with.

Have a great weekend.

They are listening to us

2011-06-01T13:03:00.004-06:00

This wonderful project has been going on for sometime. I just wanted to share this video with anyone that may not have seen it and to ask them to pass it on if they would like. It's hugely needed. There are so many young people who feel so alone and badly about themselves. Not just GLBT kids but anyone who is thought of as "different" I think if adults see this, maybe they will talk to their kids about bullying. I know in our house it's something we have dealt with and Conner and Jameson know it's not okay with us to treat people badly, no matter what the circumstances. Recently Jameson had the opportunity to stand up and have his voice heard. He defended someone who is perceived as gay. We were talking about it at the dinner table and Jameson said that he felt the girl who was saying bad things learned it from her parents. He looked at Bill and I and said, "I feel so lucky that you and Dad aren't like that. that's where kids get it from." It was one of the moments that made me feel like for all my screwing up as a parent, I am doing some things right. They are listening to us.

It does get better.

Forgot this one.

2011-05-29T13:05:00.002-06:00

A little coffee dyeing action. So simple and it makes your crafty stuff smell so good. Here's what you do:

First, a little tutorial on how to dye paper and ribbons with coffee. There is a very simple recipe.

In a square baking dish:
1. 2 tablespoons of instant coffee
2. 1 cup of boiling water
3. 1 teaspoon vinegar

Let this mixture cool for a bit. You can directly dip your tags, paper and ribbons into the baking dish or another way to get a nice vintage look is to place your items onto paper towel and drop spoonfuls of the mixture coffee randomly onto the surface. When dyeing my ribbon I left some of it out of the mixture to show contrast. Let dry. It should only take about 20 minutes total for the dye to be dark enough but you can experiment to see what works best for you.

I don't know about you but one of my favorite things to do is to take time out and have coffee with a good friend. My best friend Adrienne and I, despite our busy schedules, would always try to make time to meet and have coffee(or tea) at least once a week. She is my other half, my chosen sister. We have so many things in common but the most fun thing is our love of flea markets. We love vintage junk. Other people in our lives think we are insane for the crazy stuff we bring home but we love it! She lives very far from me now and I miss her but think about her a lot.

Happy Belated Birthday Adrienne. Love you!

Stop watching the news and make something

2011-05-25T14:55:00.002-06:00

I am pretty sick of the news. Not just Fox news either. They all can shove their sorry news reports right up their you know what.
It's gross pandering to people's fears and insecurities. It's bad for your health. It's bad for your emotional well being. Well it's bad for mine.

I am so tired of hearing about people's ugly behavior, enough already. The tv in general can just go the way of the Dodo. Jersey Shore? Real Housewives? American Idol? blech. excuse me but really? I have way better things to do with my precious, precious time. Is it just me? Am I crazy? Do I really care about Sarah Palin's new movie? f no.

Here's some cards I made that might be finding their way to one of you at some time or another. Good golly, that little rant felt marvelous, I should do that more often.

Truly Scrumptious aka the world is ending tomorrow

2011-05-20T16:31:00.003-06:00

Lisa's challenge over at Cocoa Daisy last week. Check it out. Something sweet, something sparkly, something lovely as in a heart. Here's what I did.

The funny thing is the background just sorta happened. Literally. Jameson was using it for a back drop and shooting air soft pellets at it. Then he was spray painting something and used it again as a backdrop. I have been saving it for months on my desk and it just screamed "use me on this sweety pie layout" so it's kinda grundgy-thanks to Jameson. Honestly, I don't really do any of my backgrounds. It's all my kids.

no not really.

It's friday. Yeah. I think I will relax while cooking with a wee bit of wine. Oh and if you don't hear from me ever again, It's not because I was raptured it's because I fell into a crack in the backyard during the earthquake.

The Dog days are over

2011-05-19T13:16:00.002-06:00

Love that song by Florence and the Machine. You have to leave all your longing behind if you want to survive. hmm. interesting.

I have been longing for more time. For the magical, secret 24 hours of extra. A full day that only I am aware of. I think I might take a long nap!

The sun has been shining and no matter how much sunscreen I use I still can't help but get color. My face is already getting tan but I can't stand hats when the sun is shining. It's too beautiful to miss. I have been fitting in lovely walks and bike rides between jobs. Which means there is no food in the fridge, unfolded laundry and scary bathrooms. Oh well. I am happier at least.

Wanted to share with you some pages from my altered book/scrapbook that I did the class for at the CD crop. It is one of my favorite things I've made in awhile. It was wonderful and relaxing creating. I am still working on it but here are a few.

Happy Thursday everyone.

Sons of dark hair

2011-05-16T19:39:00.006-06:00

The crop was fantastic and very fun. I scrapbooked and chatted most of Saturday while the boys were at a lacrosse jamboree with their Dad. It was heavenly.

I actually did quite a few projects, there was so much cool inspiration and ideas. I did for Ronda's challenge One night in Bangkok It was about using a group of album covers as inspiration.

I was immediately drawn to the single file cover. This is what I came up with.

My son Conner likes to say he hates poetry. He nearly had a nervous breakdown when he had to write an anthology of poetry for English this year. This is one of many of his wonderful poems. I used it in the layout.

Sons of dark hair
Spring days spent
fishing with my Dad
hearing stories of my family
from me, to Bud of Ireland.
How we left
and settled.
Fall days spent at home
annoying my cat
Fighting with Jameson
Night spent with my family
praying before we eat
and going to bed waiting
for tomorrow.

THAT. Blows me away.
Happy Monday everyone!

Cocoa Daisy's Spring Crop

2011-05-09T21:33:00.004-06:00

This weekend. Last fall was my first online crop and I wasn't sure how it all went but man I had a blast. Those women are CRAZY!! It was super fun and the DT does an amazing job putting together fun classes and challenges. You don't have to be a subscriber to Cocoa Daisy to join and you probably know at least a few people already.

I am teaching a class on Saturday.

An altered scrapbook. I love how this project turned out and will share the pages with you this weekend. It is my favorite thing I've made in a long time. It was relaxing and fun.

I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day. I was thinking of you all and wishing you were all super relaxed and spoiled. It was a pretty good weekend for me. Saturday was my 44th birthday. I must say, having your birthday the day before mother's day is like having your birthday on Christmas Eve. I mean you get 2 days a year as a mom. Your birthday and Mother's Day. It would be nice to spread the love around a little!

Spring is really here. The leaves are starting to bud on the trees and there is a whole lot of green on the still snow covered mountains. Now we just need some warm weather.

2011-05-01T09:39:00.003-06:00

Despite the snow yesterday during the 5k walk/run my granddaughters and I did, I think spring is here!! On monday I have my first roller derby practise in 3 months. I was going to start a few weeks ago but I hurt my back and needed to give it a break despite my work schedule. The chiropractor has done wonders and it wasn't any major problem just hard work and ignoring the signals my body was giving me. I am saving for a better pair of wheels for my skates and a pair of rainbow tights that I love! My friend Gretchen from the restaurant is starting with me and she is so excited. It will take us quite awhile to be able to play in a bout because we must test up through 3 levels but it is super fun anyway!! I think I have decided on my name. Kooka-licious. Almost 100% sure.

Have a good Sunday!

A little Vintage Ink

2011-04-28T09:26:00.002-06:00

Reveal night tonight over at Cocoa Daisy.

Do you subscribe to any kits? I used to sub Poppyink back in the day and then Kenner Road. I loved both of them. I must say that kits are really great. You get new product, all mixed up for you at a reasonable price. It definitely motivates me to scrapbook. I love Cocoa Daisy's kits Christine has a wonderful eye for product and always mixing it up with all the stuff I really like.

Hope Spring has sprung where you are. There was snow on my car this am. blech.

Thanks so much for your awesome and kind words about my last post. Women are the best!

Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't

2011-04-25T11:23:00.003-06:00

I figured something out about myself recently. I think of days as being good or bad based on how much I get done. How many things I check off a list. The problem with this is that I am missing the moments, the small triumphs and the tiny, "job well done" s. I say this today because it's 11:32am and I have only showered, had coffee and felt anxious about how much I haven't done. My teenagers are watching some inane show on tv and I just finished cooking them pancakes. Deep breath. It's okay not to have my whole house cleaned, my errands run, 5 loads of laundry finished, phone calls made, cards sent, and my dinner already planned, Deep breath. I have today off from work. What if, by the end of the day all I got accomplished was I showered, made pancakes and sat and watched a strange and silly TV show with my kids? What if we ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner and the laundry never got folded?

If another woman asked me this I would say, nothing. relax, don't worry about what you don't get done. I would kindly tell her she has a lot on her plate and she needs to be kinder and gentler to herself. I would say, "Let yourself off the hook. You are so much more than how clean your house is or how organized your pantry looks." I would tell her the kids can wear the same clothes 2 days in a row. I would give her permission to read a book or a magazine. Why can't I tell myself that?

I also realized something else. As much as I love the internet I have been slowly sucked into the perfect bodies are the norm madness. It's sort of making me crazy. I am almost 43 years old. I eat well, love to walk and ride my bike as often as possible, have a pretty physical job, and my blood pressure and cholesterol levels are freakishly good. I am not thin. Not even close. I am 5"4 and weigh 145 pounds. I am healthy but apparently over weight as far as the numbers go. I do not eat chips, donuts or candy or soda. I like good food, not junk. I need to feel comfortable in my body again instead of comparing myself to the idea of a perfect body. You know what I think is strange as well? I weighed the same 115 ish pounds from highschool until I was in my 30s give a take a few. Back then I was a size 6. What has happened to sizes?

Healthy and confident is beautiful. Smart and kind is beautiful. Happy is beautiful. Gracious is beautiful.

Hey-you are beautiful.

May is coming!

2011-04-22T15:27:00.002-06:00

Good things in May. My birthday. Dee's birthday. Deana's birthday and Mother's Day for all you mums out there!! Also Cocoa Daisy's Vintage Ink. Oh my goodness I love this kit. Reveal night is April 28th over at Cocoa Daisy. This kit is filled with little vintage bits and lovely paper. Also we have the spring crop coming up on May 13th. More info will be coming about that.

I am going to enjoy a glass of wine now and relax after a long week. I hope you all have a good Easter, Passover and Earth Day!!

One More- actually Two

2011-04-16T17:41:00.002-06:00

I made two more layouts with the Cocoa Daisy Central Park kit for April. The colors in this kit works perfectly for Clare's wedding photos.

Aren't those little flags by pebbles inc. the cutest? They come in one of the add ons this month. That one is called Greengap

I am busy coming up with a class for the Cocoa Daisy Spring Crop coming up on The weekend of May 13th. Some altered book scrapbooking anyone?

Today was a whopping 55 degrees and in between raindrops the sun did come out long enough to prompt a walk. The mountains are greening up below the snow line and the rivers are getting swift and muddy so Spring must be here. Or coming. What signs of Spring are happening where you are?

What's wrong with this picture?

2011-04-13T14:20:00.005-06:00

I really wanted to try to find a bigger version of this. I am coming out of my blogging slumber to say I see NOTHING wrong with this. It is an ad for J.Crew that shows a mom painting her little boys toenails pink.

What I see? A happy little boy spending time with a mother that absolutely adores him.

What some other's see? A "exploitation of transgender identity politics."

seriously?

Let me say this, my youngest son as a little boy was always asking to paint his toe nails. He also wore pink and purple. Just two summers ago when shopping for flip flops he picked out a pink and green pair from the ladies bin. I bought them. I just had a parent teacher conference where his homeroom teacher told my husband and I that our son is incredibly supportive, and encouraging to his class mates. He sure isn't perfect but he is basically kind, respectful and well mannered. Aren't those the important things? He is now a full blown teenager and not that it would matter a bit to Bill and I, he is not transgender or homosexual.

I try to understand people whether I agree with them or not but it is impossible sometimes. As a Christian, a Women, a Mother, and an American I have to openly say that homophobia is WRONG. I am so thankful that I have had friends and family members that had the courage to be openly gay. My sons have been lucky enough to grow up in a home where homosexuality is not freakish or deviant. They understand that you can't "become" gay by what you do, wear or what colors you like. They aren't afraid of gay people. They would never harass or harm anyone because they are gay or they are "perceived" as gay.

Homophobia and gender stereotyping is harmful to children, men and women. What clothes you wear, what colors you like and who you are sexually attracted to do not have anything to do with what kind of person you are. Or what kind of man or woman you will become.

Okay rant over. Aren't his glasses cool?

Cocoa Daisy Central Park

2011-03-29T16:02:00.002-06:00

Spring is here and this kit is all about it! Gorgeous papers and embellishments. The butterfly stamp is the best thing ever. Buy it HERE.

A little Marie minus the cake

2011-03-26T16:52:00.002-06:00

Oh the sun is shining and the temperature is inching up to 50 degrees F. I heard a meadowlark this morning and I feel this strange and delicious shift in my brain that makes me feel more awake. Colors, tastes, sounds and feelings just waiting to be experienced. Spring time always brings out the hedonist in me. In a good way mind you. I need my sleep so all my desires sort of revolve around that. Ha. I am silly.

Roller derby starts up again soon. I am excited to get going! I still have not "officially" registered a name on the two evils international roster. I have some ideas but not sure. any suggestions? leave me some ideas and I would greatly appreciate it. If you want to check out the roster itself go to twoevils.com. It's pretty awesome. The problem is you can't use a name that is already on this list, no matter how much you feel it's yours in your little fish net stocking, roller derby heart.

happy spring!

A little Ronda

2011-03-17T08:50:00.003-06:00

I made this a while back and sorta forgot about it but I was going over some things I have to mail out and realized I really like this. It's for Ronda. Her blog is like a good craft magazine only better because you feel like she's "normal" and not Martha Stewart. You know what I mean? You can be impressed and inspired but not secretly want to kick her. Not that I go around kicking people but the woman has a messy desk somedays and that makes me feel like I am not the only one. She has a big deadline coming up so go give her some love.

Working a lot the past couple of weeks but I have a vacation week coming up so so excited about that. We aren't traveling anywhere-can't not get paid for a week and still travel but the boys and I will find fun things to do and sleeping in will be one of them! So will staying in my pj's for an entire day.

I have so much blog reading to catch up on. I have entire days when I am not even near the computer. This weekend though!

Oh and to all you fellow Irish Americans, Happy Saint Patricks Day. Slainte!

Crazy is as Crazy does

2011-03-03T09:54:00.002-07:00

So I put on some lipstick and washed my hair and took some super hero like photos. I don't know why, just did. I know they are blurry and out of focus but in my defense-I don't pretend to know what I am doing, I shot in manual, I don't have a tripod, and it was so dark and cloudy in my kitchen I am surprised I got anything.

Here's me with my cat Pacho. I am convinced he dragged my glasses off somewhere and is chewing on them.

And this one is me saying, "Yes I am weird-so what?"

It's amazing what a little strange behavior can do for one's attitude. Feeling much better and recognize myself in the mirror.

Done and Done.

Nothing seems quite right

2011-03-02T14:39:00.002-07:00

I am definitely feeling better but I think the cold, the endless winter, the need for a vacation has made me crabby. I am not a gym person. I like to ride my bike and go for walks or hikes. Well, the weather hasn't exactly been working with me on any of those fronts and I am sure the lack of exercise has not helped my mood either.

Do you ever have days when you look in the mirror and don't recognize yourself? It's strange and unsettling. It has happened before and I know to just stop looking in mirrors for a bit and it will go away but yikes! At 44 it seems to be scarier. Self care is needed. Do my hair, some makeup, wear something that fits well and is cute. It will be better.

I couldn't find my glasses today. Still can't but luckily I have an old pair. Has that ever happened to you? Seriously, they are nowhere in this house. Am I becoming a bit dodgy? I have looked everywhere. The kitchen, my car, coat pockets, under the bed, under the couch, in the laundry basket, even the garbage. I have been known to leave them on the top of my head but alas, they are not there. Could the cat have taken off with them? He is strange.

I was taking some photos of my house, my favorite things, my studio. I do love this house. It's growing on me. It needs paint and wood floors and bedrooms downstairs for the boys. It is small and a bit awkward but it's ours.

When it don't come easy

2011-02-28T15:39:00.002-07:00

I wanted to try a challenge blog this month and so during the frigid below zero temperatures this weekend, I created this layout for the Creative Type. The challenge was LOVE SONGS. I suppose in honor of valentine's Day. Okay sweet-blech.

No I love my husband but after 15 years it's not always so sweetie pie lovey, ya know? Like when he was sick last week and didn't go to work for 3 days and instead slept. Really....for 3 days?!! So I woke up to day and finally admitted that I have the same damn head cold. I feel like crap. I said it out loud. He asked me if I was going to work and I said, "yes, I have to" his response? "you must not be as sick as I was."

(long silent, seething pause..............)

In spite of moments like that I really love this layout.

The song is by Patty Griffin. When it don't come easy.

"When you break down, I'll drive out and find you. When you forget my love, I'll try to remind you. And stay by you, when it don't come easy."

It's easy to love someone when things are going your way. When the bills are paid, the house is perfect, the kids are fine. Real life has a funny way of throwing a kink in the works. But during the mess, that's when all the real good stuff happens.

Also, the Cocoa Daisy kits go on sale tonight. There was a bit of a mix up and some kits were already sold but there are some left. They are gorgeous. Have you seen Ali Edwards class Scrapbook on the road?
It is the same class she taught in Greece for the Cocoa Daisy Trip. The kit is on sale tomorrow HERE. I really am thinking about doing it.

I am also taking Cindy's class Destination Childhood. It is wonderful!! I do not have photos of me as a child, my mother has them but I have started journaling with her fantastic prompts and ideas so it will all come together eventually.

Off to rest. My head feels too heavy to keep up.....but not as bad as Bill's. ha!

Cocoa Daisy Coffee House

2011-02-26T10:22:00.004-07:00

This kit is so beautiful! the add-ons are incredible as well. I am pretty sure everything is selling out super fast so get them while you can HERE.

The gallery this month is so good. I love what everyone created. I was able to finish 2 layouts so far with my kit. Working on a couple more today.

Just added another layout and my 7 gypsies receipt holder. I am seriously in love with this kit. so much good stuff to play with. I have tons more left to create with.

Computer Issues-blech

2011-02-13T11:39:00.002-07:00

I have been missing because my one and only computer is missing. Hopefully it will be fixed-my fab stepson has ordered a part for it and I think I will back by next weekend. I am so going through blog withdrawal. Help! I don't even have internet on my phone. dork. Miss you guys!

Frayed Canvas

2011-01-29T17:39:00.002-07:00

The new kit for Cocoa Daisy is called Frayed Canvas. I really enjoyed the colors-a little splash of sunshine and spring in my rather bleak Montana landscape. How I am craving some sun! Here is a gallery link for the DT. Some pretty amazing work as always. This is what I played around with this month:

Now I have spoken here a couple of times about Cindy who is a wonderful friend and has the most amazing sense of style and a gift for the written word. Her blog is seriously like a magazine. She also designed my lovely Marie Antoinette banner for the blog and is skilled in the ways of Html which is like speaking Mandarin to me. Well she tagged me so then, here it is.....

1. I am the middle child of three girls. I am quirky and odd but the maladjusted middle child theory is totally not true with me. I am the most mentally stable one of the three of us. Ask anyone that knows us (except for my sisters).
2. I was always messy and often dirty as a child because I played outside from morning till night. I was a bit of a tom-boy but loved pink and frilly dresses. They just always had stains on them and were often torn
3. I have waited on some famous people. David Byrne from the Talking Heads, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Ted Kennedy, Julia Child and Jacques Pepin, and my favorite Elie Wiesel. I also made a bloody mary for Jack Nicholson. That was an interesting experience!
4. I am 44 years old and a grandmother to 5 children. I love it when they call me grandma in public.
5. I surround myself with talented and beautiful women. Having girlfriends is the thing that keeps me sane as a wife and a mother. It has saved my marriage on more than one occasion and helped me not strangle my beloved children. Any woman that says other woman can't be trusted should not be trusted.
6. I think every woman should have at least one gay male friend. Really. It is wonderful and I highly recommend it. It all started with my dear friend Brian when I was 20 years old and it has continued with my newish friend Stephen. Both these men are beloved of my entire family.
7. I collect rocks. Not as in "rock collection" rocks but random rocks I find in lakes, river beds, beaches, and street corners. I have little bowls and jars of rocks all over my house. They move with me to every new house.
8. I strangled a rabid 30lb raccoon. Some of you already know this story but it is worth mentioning again because it really did change me in many wonderful ways. You can read the story here or here. Sometimes when I think about it I start to laugh. Like really? You can't make this stuff up!

Cocoa Daisy sneaks for Feb.

2011-01-26T13:55:00.002-07:00

This kit was soo fun to play with! I did four layouts in one day which must be a record for me. Lots of color and texture, just wonderful.

Reveal night is this friday night the 28th over here at Cocoa Daisy. I am pretty sure they are making it 6pm EST so that all the European ladies can get in on it as well! I have to say that the Cocoa message board is pretty damn entertaining!

Getting a new furnace put in so I better put on some fingerless gloves! It's cold in here.

TODAY

2011-01-17T08:03:00.003-07:00

I always find it difficult to chose a word for the year. I love words, and like colors I can never decide which one I like best because I like them all. Still, I wanted to find one that made the most impact for me. Something I could focus on and bring forth into my daily life. I have so many things I want to do, change, experience. Sometimes all this thinking and planning ahead gets in the way. Sometimes it brings up fear which sadly turns to anger. I wanted a word that would help me to stop. think. be present. So I picked TODAY. As in Just for Today. I can't do everything. I can't change everything at once. I can't always be brave, strong, positive, kind, giving. But maybe for today I can. Maybe just for today. All I really need is enough courage, kindness and wisdom for the next 24 hours. That's it. Don't worry about tomorrow until it happens. Just be present TODAY.

It's Reverend Martin Luther King Day today. The boys and I have off from school and work. We are going to a rally this evening that is sponsored through our church. It is to take a stand against anti-gay bullying. There will be music and speakers and than a candle-lit march to another church in town. I am so glad they want to be a part of this. It makes me a proud mother.

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
Martin Luther King, Jr.

So much to say I can't say it at all

2011-01-10T20:33:00.002-07:00

Oh thank you for your well wishes on the move. I believe it made a world of difference and we survived with our marriage and most of our belongings intact!

I have lots of thoughts rattling around in this mixed up, addled brain of mine. Big thoughts and little ones. Thoughts that thrill and scare me. I have plans and hopes but no expectations.

"The minute you have an unrealistic expectation of yourself or others, you commit the crime of premeditated resentment. The punishment for which is life imprisonment- alone and miserable in your own mind."

Can't remember who said that but I like it!

I will leave you with some fun stuff I made with the January kit from Cocoa Daisy.

Still unpacking and getting organized but I will be catching up with you all real soon!

See you next year.

2010-12-30T09:01:00.002-07:00

I am just about to shut down and pack the computer. I wont have Internet until sometime next Friday so I will be gone for a bit. I will miss you all. I hope to spend the new year getting our little next in order and making new memories to add the patina of love that a new house needs to make it a home.

Happy New Year.

2010-12-28T09:33:00.002-07:00

My life is being packed in boxes. This is my 11th move with my husband in 15 years and the crazy thing is we lived here for 3 and our home in CT. for 4. That makes us sound kind of transient and weird but we aren't. Anyway, I am good at moving. I know how to pack. I know exactly what to do and when. It's frightening how good I am at it. I should start another business packing for people. Actually I did think of this once, packing elderly peoples homes. Organizing, packing, giving away, throwing away. I had forgotten all about it until just now...something to think about.

Christmas was quiet and delightful. We didn't have all the kids over this year for the first time in a long while and it was sorta nice. I love our kids and grandchildren but sometimes when everyone is here it's hard to really pay attention to anyone. There's a lot of us! So it was just our daughter Clare and her husband Justin,our two grandaughters Aubrey and Jordan, Conner, Jameson, Bill and I. We didn't have many presents to open but it still took us hours, as Jameson played Santa and we were more excited to see others like their presents then what we got. I say it every year, but my children never cease to amaze me and make me proud as they are so grateful and happy. My son's made me the most amazing wall hanging out of leather that they burned my favorite quote into. Bill and I both cried.

I am feeling a little sad about leaving this old house. It is sweet and has character and a front porch. The street is lined with maple trees and the alleyway filled with lilacs in the spring. I always fall in love with my homes. No matter how manky and problematic they may be and I am always sad to leave them. The house we bought is smaller.....gulp, on the main floor with a sweet little kitchen but no dining area, some people don't think eating together is a priority apparently? It is plain with no character. I am sounding whiny and I apologize. My husband will transform it as he always does but it will be hard getting used to. I will though and will fall in love with it over time like I always do. Right?!

2010 is winding to a close. I am ready for a new year. Wish me luck on the move. I am trying to keep a positive attitude!

Happy New Year to you all.

December

2010-11-30T22:21:00.003-07:00

Oh good Lord it's December already. Just read a wonderful post about December from this lovely lady. Which instantly got me out of my funk. The funk of worrying if I will get everything done. There's nothing to get done except show up, be present and live. There, my to do list for December. DONE.

Cocoa Daisy's new kit for December is up. It's called magpie and full of pretty, shimmery papers and bits. There's even my fav...GLITTER! actually a bag of mica flakes which I may have already put in my pockets.

Thankful

2010-11-24T09:00:00.006-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving.

This year we have added three grandchildren to our ever growing family. Bridger, Jordan and Arianna have brought so much fresh new adventures to us. We also celebrated our daughter Clare's marraige and were able to be present for such a wonderful coming together of our blended family. It made the move here so clear for me, no matter how difficult it was to leave the life we had built for ourselves in Connecticut.

I just want to share something with you. Bill and I have bought a house. We will be moving in on January 1st. It's been a rough road the past three years since we sold our house and made this move. There were bleak moments for sure but we held on and kept going.

There are no guarantees that things will continue as well as they have been but I know something now. I can do anything. I am not afraid like I used to be.

I want to thank everyone who has encouraged me over the last couple of years by your comments and prayers. This blog is for me and I share what I want without trying to think about what others will think. There have been posts when I just needed to vent my sadness or fear and I was always humbled by your kind words. Thanks so much.

To others that may be dealing with financial difficulties or family problems I want to encourage you. you aren't alone. There aren't any easy answers or quick fixes, I certainley am not qualified to give any advice. Just keep going. Things will somehow turn out right in the end. Maybe not how you hoped or imagined but alright.

Another bit of good news is this young man turns fourteen. He was born during a snow storm in Kalispell Montana. He's pretty awesome. And yes, his eyes are that blue. There was no photoshoping the eyes.

Cheers! Hoping you have many, many things to be thankful for this year.

a snow day makes me think

2010-11-23T07:20:00.003-07:00

Of Alaska. I will probably get in trouble for this but what the hell. It must be said. Sometimes, someone needs to use reason and logic out loud. So I tuned in just to see another "reality" show pandering to our pathetic need to practise voyeurism and celebrity worship. All I can say is this, Sarah Palin is trying to tell me that she is just like me. A wife, a mom, a working woman. Just regular. Does any other "regular" working mom climb into their 50,000 dollar RV to drive to a fishing charter at $250-$300 per person and or recreate on trophy hunting trips (bears, moose etc.) at $13,000 per hunter? If you add up what they spend "recreating" in a week, it's more than I make in a whole freaking year. Thank goodness they are keeping their tax cuts.

Just had to say it.

It's snowing.

2010-11-14T08:33:00.002-07:00

Second cup of coffee, snow is falling and got the whole day to do nothing. I mean I have things I should do but I'm not going to.

No laundry, no picking up after people (ie children) no trips to the grocery store. I'll do it another day. Maybe not even tomorrow.

Tomorrow is roller derby practise. I will have photos at some point but not until I am confident on the skates. Don't want to fall or crash with my camera in hand. I'd rather break a leg.

The layouts? Some challenge layouts from the Cocoa Daisy Fall Crop, which is still going on by the way.

Happy Sunday.

Thank God for coffee

2010-11-10T07:08:00.004-07:00

This weekend cannot come fast enough! Yes there is the Fall Crop at Cocoa Daisy which you should carve out time for this weekend because these women are crazy creative and there is lots of eye candy to enjoy.

The weekend also means a few extra hours of sleep which I could seriously use. I will not bore you with the gritty details but yesterday/last night was a marathon work day and I admit my weakness for caffeine.....I could not have dragged my sorry butt out of bed if not for the cup of coffee I knew I would be able to enjoy if I did. I have developed an eye twitch from being tired. It drives me insane and may actually be physical proof that I am a bit wonky.

I need to make more java.
Have a good one people!

2010-11-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

Next week on Friday November 12th til Sunday 14th, Cocoa Daisy is having a fall online crop-There's no place like Home. You don't have to be a subscriber to join in for the weekend and even if you can only participate in some of the challenges or classes it will be so fun.

My class -Around The House- is all about making little dream houses. They can be made from cardboard boxes you have hiding in your attic or basement.

More class previews to come!

Okay if we have to do some holiday shopping...

2010-11-02T15:11:00.000-06:00

I have a very good friend that shops every year for Christmas on the day after Thanksgiving. She LOVES it. She seriously gets up at like 4 am and goes to the mall or Target or wherever there is a good sale. This is like a mission for the military. There is organizing and supplies, there are maps created and routes planned and punched into the GPS. She is serious. She is also beautiful, generous and funny. But crazy. You couldn't pay me to do this. I would rather go to the dentist than shop with the masses. It gives me a stomache just thinking about it. To each her own. My friend enjoys it, it is one of the best things about the season. Who am I to judge? I joined a Roller Derby team for God's sake. That's a bit crazy too.

I really don't have anyone to shop for except my boys. Everyone else in my life is getting something I make, unless I see something that is handmade by someone else OR just screams the name of someone I know and love.

Here are some cool things to buy without the crowds, dehydration and crabbiness.

a gorgeous silver ice bucket from French Blue Vintage.

Or this art calender from belladrummer.

Or this original drawing from stellalatwinski

or these ruffled arm warmers from treehouse28

Just click and shop. Sounds a lot better than being on my feet all day. I don't have a lap top but if I did I would shop lying down!

It's that time already isn't it. Yikes.

2010-10-30T17:21:00.000-06:00

Over here at Copy + Paste. I like the whole idea of not leaving your house to shop for presents. Not shopping period. This workshop is all about making gifts from things you have at home. Spending less on gifts means that you wont have to stress out about money AND you might have money to spend on things like clean water for people who need it, or chickens that will give people a way to make a living and send their children to school. It also could mean less running around which to me equals more time for baking cookies and taking naps when I find a sliver of time.

Now that being said, if anyone wants to know, a cashmere sweater wrap in gray would be lovely. Or a dress from Anthropologie.

yeah right.

I say it every year but I am actually getting better and better about taking a deep breath and just giving myself permission to slow down and stop the endless holiday TO DO lists. I love the holidays and I am no Scrooge, I just don't want to get sucked into the illusion that there is such thing as a "perfect Christmas" A perfect Christmas is:

healthy
together
warm
fed
Presence

okay maybe a plate of cookies, hot cuppa tea and then a long nap as well.

(wrapped in that cashmere sweater)

Cocoa Daisy Poker Face

2010-10-30T09:12:00.000-06:00

This month's kit is absolutely my favorite so far! Lot's of Crate Paper's Restoration line and the most amazing doilie stamp designed by CD Kim Watson. I have big plans for this stamp for Christmas decorations/presents/cards. A glue pad and some glitter or embossing powder in white?

I am hoping to catch up on my favorite blogs and have a bit more time to blog myself. This is such a beautiful time of year but with it comes lots of obligations. I have been creating but not taking naps and that has to change or this will not be a fun holiday season.

Tomorrow I will be wearing my Mad Hatter costume again and trick or treating with my granddaughters. The boys are busy concocting scary and strange costumes (not too scary) but they will trick or treat with friends in our neighborhood. Too cool to go with mom and dad, especially if mom is dressed like a freak. Sigh. Do you think they will think I am cool again someday? Hope so.

Happy Halloween!

I miss you Dee-cheers my friend, I'll be calling you in my wineglass tomorrow night.

Who wants to be a Rollergirl?

2010-10-18T20:09:00.000-06:00

Me!

Just went to the first meeting tonight and I am over the moon excited. I have had this desire just secretly tucked away in my heart for so long and it was finally time to do something about it. So I did. I can't tell you how many people have said, "what? you can't possibly do roller derby." well just watch me.

Sometimes as crazy or silly as your dream might be, or maybe as scared or foolish as you might feel, you just have to throw out all that crap and DO IT!

I am so glad I did.

Stay tuned friends.

boys

2010-10-11T17:30:00.001-06:00

Had fun playing with the Cocoa Daisy October kit. There are actually a couple of kits left and a really cute Halloween mini book kit by Ronda that can be purchased as well.

I have been so inspired by the fall weather and have been taking tons of photos that I can't wait to use!

Cocoa Daisy's Happy Day

2010-10-01T15:20:00.000-06:00

I am posting a day late on the October kit and guess what? It's already sold out! I don't want to rub it in since all the kits are gone but seriously-this was soo much fun working with. The Studio Calico spray is awesome. I ended up using it on everyone of my layouts AND all the creepy doll head Halloween ATC's I am cooking up.

Did I mention it's friday? It's 3:26 pm here and I am going to have a cup of tea and then a nap before I start making some corn chowder for dinner. It's been a long week but the weekend is here YAY!!!

Have fun :)

There is a crack in everything

2010-09-29T11:59:00.000-06:00

A favorite quote right now:

"Ring the bells that still can ring. Forget your perfect offering.

There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in."

Leonard Cohen

Well I went to the post office and mailed out some goodies for Lenna, Julie, Sharmaine and Kara. I went a bit crazy with a Halloween theme on some. The creepy doll heads are so hilarious.

Off to work. Hope you are having a beautiful fall day!

A little taste of summer

2010-09-22T13:39:00.001-06:00

It was a simple dinner of farmer's market strawberries, cucumber and dill salad, grilled hot dogs and lemonade. The dahlias are from my daugther in laws garden. gorgeous.

So I have an idea. Only 6 of you commented so I am going to send everyone who did an ATC.
Sharmaine I have your addy so no need to send it to me. Lenna, Julie, Kara, Katie and Sasha if you could email me your snail mail address that would be great and I will send you an ATC. My email address can be found on my profile.

Have a great day!

This Queen is a tart (and some rak goodness)

2010-09-18T09:06:00.001-06:00

I made these two ATC's for the Queen of Hearts swap on Simply ArTistiC. It's an ATC swap blog that is very friendly and easy to join. Of course I didn't post these beauties in time so I am not involved in the swap but it was still fun making them. Which leads me to an idea I've had (only after my second cup of coffee) I would like to give someone these ATC's as a little rak. Post a comment here by um...Tuesday morning and I will choose a random person to send them to.

In other news I have a new Cocoa Daisy kit to play with this weekend. I also have some Christmas cards to make for French Blue Vintage. Seriously, Adrienne has such a gift for finding the most interesting things. She is an original American Picker. It's not too early to think of Christmas shopping and she has wonderful gifts of all kinds.

Living vicariously through Kara lately. She is in Brooklyn at art school. heelllooo my younger self. My angst ridden, coffee drinking, red lipsticked self. But seriously Kara is so much cooler and interesting than I ever was. I am enjoying her adventures and wishing I was back in the Northeast for autumn. Thank God I live in the U district here in Missoula Montana. At least the streets are lined with sugar maples.

Also am enjoying catching up with Sandy again. She has started blogging again and it makes me very happy. Her little family is so freaking cute and I don't mean perfect, just delightful.

I am craving pumpkin bread with cranberries and walnuts, shepards pie, anything in a crock pot and a nap.

Have a wonderful weekend and don't forget to post a comment for a chance at those ridiculous ATC's.

Playing hooky

2010-09-06T11:43:00.001-06:00

Okay I am playing hooky from work. It's Labor Day right? I shouldn't be working anyway.

I worked last night at the restaurant and it was actually one of those magical nights when you are busy but everything just works perfectly. Everything just flowed. The food was perfect, the wine I suggested oooed and awed over. Just perfect. But late. and I was so tired this morning as I got up at 5 to pack a cooler for my husband to bring with him to work out of town until Wednesday night. I went back to bed at 6 and set the alarm for 6:30. Um, no.

So I crawled out of bed and sent a text to my client that I would not be coming to clean today. I didn't say why. I am not a good liar, even via text so I said nothing except sorry, I will see you next week. Then I promptly went back to bed where I slept until 10 am. That NEVER happens. So now I am still in my pj's, 2 cups of coffee in, letting my boys watch tv as I catch up on my favorite blogs and post on mine. wow. The only thing I have to do today is meet with a new client at 2 pm. This man has an 8,000 sq. foot house. Seriously? Just him and his boyfriend. They are super nice but what on earth do they need a house that big for? Oh well, luckily it is none of my business. I just need to make them happy with my duster and dyson. [that sounds naughty but it isn't...obviously]

I have actually hired a college student I work with at the restaurant. She will be helping me a couple of mornings a week so I can take on more clients. She is happy/surprised by how much I am paying her, and I am so grateful to have her. How did this happen? It's such a surprise because I didn't plan on having a cleaning business it just kinda happened. In this economy, a luxury service is actually flourishing? very strange.

The boys have done pretty well their first week of school and have made a commitment to themselves to stay motivated. I like their attitude!

I bought organic peaches at the farmer's market and was going to make some jam but we ate them all. Made a roasted heirloom tomato and corn salad Saturday night, omg. yum.

I have a box of goodness I purchased from twopeas. It is the first scrappy stuff I have bought in a LOONG time and it was so fun. some looks

I feel some creative time coming on tonight. Hope your labor day was filled with everything but labor.

Yeah for the weekend!

2010-08-27T16:44:00.000-06:00

I haven't posted before now but guess what? I get to make stuff for Cocoa Daisy with these fabulous women! Fun, fun.

Here's what I did with September's kit Brighter Skies.

All the greens and blues were perfect for the wedding photos. I love the one with Bill and Clare smiling. I journaled some of the lyrics to "Heavenly Day" by Patty Griffin. They danced to that song and the words are awesome. Not too sentimental just real.

Have a great weekend everyone. Boys are back at school monday. I am sad and a little scared by how hard it's going to be to get them out of bed. yikes!

Rose lipped maidens, light foot lads

2010-08-23T20:49:00.001-06:00

It was a beautiful day. Many happy tears were shed watching and listening to Clare and Justin make their lovely little family official. There were babies everywhere and moms, dads, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts and friends all wishing them the best.

What is it about weddings that make people cry? I sat listening to the minister give the sermon and thought, it is so good to listen to this, to be reminded of what love really is. It is so easy to forget what we pledge on the day we marry. It isn't just about being faithful or sticking it out through thick or thin. It's about believing the best in another person and seeing past mistakes. It's about filtering out the negative and seeing that person as your beloved. That's hard to do sometimes but when we do it, without keeping score, it really does work like magic.

Maybe we cry because our hearts fill with so much fragile hope on a wedding day that we need to make room. Our tears are for the happy couple but also for ourselves. It is a state of grace. Before the stress of real life (or a respite from it) gets in the way. It's when we see two people at their best and their bravest. We cry because we remember and hope.

2010-08-18T10:08:00.000-06:00

Two more layouts from Debee's class. I am still working on the other projects but am in no hurry. I have decided to stop trying to get everything done. It's impossible. Just enjoy. This class was wonderful-she has a great way of inspiring herself and I liked getting inside her creative mind so to speak.

I am off to Idaho for my beautiful stepdaughter's wedding. We will be on a break from reality for 4 days and I am going to relish it. I have that melancholy feeling that always comes at the end of summer. Each day seems so precious-the sun turning each evening to that rose color that only happens at the fall of summer. It's like everything has been sprinkled with fairy glamour.

Some news when I get back!

rockin the spray paint again

2010-08-03T21:07:00.000-06:00

I have been taking Debee's class Inspire Lovely.

So delightful. She really is amazing. How she puts it all together and her photos...it is a bit frustrating to try to achieve the same level of loveliness but I am having fun.

Here's a little peek of my first page/cover.

I also asked Conner to take some photos of me this afternoon. I love this one. My favorite cowboy boots and a nest with a broken robin egg. I collect them-nests I mean. So this will find it's way into my next assignment for the class. Meanwhile I will be waitressing tomorrow night with black spray paint on my hands!

Are we there yet?

2010-08-01T09:15:00.000-06:00

Home.

There is no better place to me than home. Except maybe Paris. Or Barcelona. Or Venice. Or a beautiful beach by the ocean. Okay, I do love home but I have a gypsy spirit as well and it has been calling me. Anything will do. It doesn't have to involve passports or plane tickets (although that would be delicious) The wanderlust would be sastisfied by a road trip. To anywhere. The Oregon coast, Seattle, Thermopolis, Wyoming. I would even put up with crappy coffee!

Seriously, if I had money I would travel..alot. I would not buy new cars, or clothes. I would spend lots of money on traveling to all my dream spots, art supplies from Dick Blick, and I'll admit it-food from the farmer's market or the pricey and organic Good Food Store. (think Whole Foods.....as in your whole wallet) My children would still be complaining they don't have cell phones, ipads, and the latest video games. They would ski, take that fabulous 3 week kayaking camp/trip that costs more than my car is worth, and probally enjoy better fishing gear than what they have now.

oh well, in the end, sitting here just now I figured something out. I have a pretty good life.

My grandaughters came to play the other day. Aubrey is 8 and Jordan is 7 months.

Okay, they are mine but damn they are cute!

Happily Ever After is in a Glass of Pink Lemonade

2010-07-24T18:17:00.000-06:00

I have missed my blogging friends and the strange and wonderful connection I feel to complete strangers that share their lives and art here in blogging world. I haven't found a moment extra of time to visit or share. Summer is delicious but it goes by quickly unless you savour it carefully. So some things must go. Like a clean house, or my fascination with art blogs. But as I was missing you these are some of the things I've been doing:

reading
playing with my camera on manual because of Kara and her Summer of Love class (which was awesome!!)

baking a strawberry rubarb pie
riding my bike

buying fresh morels at the farmers market (among other goodies)

staying up late

arguing with my kids

getting to know my husband again (oh, now I remember why I married him)

wearing flipflops

painting my toenails black

playing card games with Jameson

making sure I hug Conner every day even though he is now towering over me

hiking to Glacier Lake with my grandaughter Shelby

making an altered book for my friend Renee's neice Lindsay

My friend Renee is an amazing writer. She is publishing a childrens book next year and I can't wait for all of you to read it. She also writes short stories and sent one of them to me to make something with as a wedding present to her neice. This is what I came up with.

It was so much fun and in my mad and crazy frenzy I managed to make a mess out of 3 entire rooms of my house, and spray paint the driveway. It was wonderful.

Just read a great interview with the actress Emma Thompson. I have to get the exact quote but basically they were asking the proverbial question one asks a grown up woman-How do you juggle work, family, blah blah. I am paraphrasing but she had a wonderful answer. She said she thought it was wrong for women to hear they can have it all. "You can't have it all. Sometimes you have somethings and then you have other things but not all things, all the time."

Hope your summer is wonderful.

we are rarely bored around here

2010-06-19T18:02:00.000-06:00

and if they are (meaning my boys) I simply tell them, "well, you lack imagination so go find something to do or you can clean the refrigerator."

I am a mother who learned early on that as long as my children were busy doing something constructive and creative, I didn't care what kind of mess they made. I always had plenty of masking tape, scotch tape, glue, card board boxes, wood, hammer and nails, and a plethora of crafty articles available for them. Over the years this has allowed them both, a multitude of friends and now grandchildren, hours of entertainment. They have constructed vehicles, castles, weapons of all kinds, and many failed attempts at space travel. One day a squirrel trap was constructed in the backyard and took the entire part of an afternoon, including Popsicle breaks.

So yesterday Jameson and his friend Chadron decided to create armour to protect themselves from the blows of the "swords" they had made. I said, "go for it"

as long as they clean up their mess-that's my motto!

Here are a couple of layouts I made over the past couple of days. I have had the backgrounds for a bit. When I get bored I like to play with spray paint and acrylics. Sometimes the backgrounds don't look so hot but if I add to them after awhile, I start to like them again.

I am aways inspired by Debee and Dina's paint skills and wish I could graffiti my living room!

These layouts are of two of my grandaughters.

Hope you are all have a wonderful weekend. Happy Father's Day to your husbands, brothers and sons!

this

2010-06-17T21:04:00.001-06:00

from The Cherryblossomgirl reminds me of rainy summer days when I was living on Block Island with a house filled with pretty girls. Lovely.

It is cold and rainy and I am a bit melancholy but in a good way. Reading Louise Erdrich: A Plague of Doves, and wishing I could write that way.

Have the weekend off and it's going to be raining all weekend but this gives me the perfect excuse to concentrate on Kara's class, Summer of Love. I will get my supplies together and clean up my little art porch so that it will be easier next week when I am busy to keep going.

I was checking out the gallery at twopeasinabucket and saw so many cool things. It made me want to craft, but then I decided to blog instead.

This blog: myblackbook is a feast for the senses. It's a new favorite. With gorgeous photos like these:

Or this

Okay, enough stalling. I am off to create something.

oh crap

2010-06-09T11:11:00.000-06:00

sometimes when I climb off my throne of pity I feel so icky I need to shower with a wire brush. yikes! Not really because although I struggle with guilt, I am resilient with shame. Self loathing is not okay with me so I just need to move on. which I have. for now.

yesterday we had a sunny northwest day. this is something to celebrate as we have had almost continual rain and cloudiness for the last 3 weeks. hmm...could have something to do with my self pity.

my children are out of school on friday. this makes me happy. I love the looser schedule that summer vacation brings. I get to see them more between jobs. No lunches to make in the morning before work. :)

I made a delicious roasted corn and tomato salad last night. yum.

Your comments made me smile and feel sooo much better. I thank you.

This is a surprise for someone and I made it using a paper kit crafted by Debee who has my favorite etsy shop HERE. Seriously I wish I could buy everything. If I ever make it to the post office this little mini book will be on it's way to someone special.

Have a great day.

Real life

2010-05-23T12:36:00.000-06:00

I can't stand facebook or twitter for that matter. Just being honest. It makes no sense to me and has no redeemable qualities. There I said it. Not judging others who enjoy it but it's just silly to me. I am sure there are people who feel this about blogs and I am okay with that. Blogging is weird quite frankly but I like it and enjoy reading blogs. I have my favorites and they are random and not all the same. I like each of my favorites for different reasons and don't really care if they read mine.

Sometimes I love to blog. I like taking photos and writing and I do like sharing the things I create. I wish I had a real life, down the block, group of women that I could share my artsy creations with and enjoy theirs,but I don't so blogging fills that space for me.

That being said, there are days when I think it's kinda pointless and I wonder if I want to keep doing it. Let's be honest, to post several times a week is a process that takes time. I don't have a lot of that. Also, I don't have a perfect life. I have two boys, (one pre-teen one teenager), 3 stepkids, 5 grandchildren, 2 jobs, a husband and a whole lot of drama that goes with that. I am tired and cranky and some times bitter. My home, although a source of joy for me doesn't look like a Pottery Barn catalog. My children are both pleasure and sheer hell often in the same day. I question myself as a parent. I Worry about my kids character. There is yelling and worse, apathy between myself and my husband sometimes. I struggle with my faith and get pissed off at God. I swear. I have f* up family members who make me crazy if I let them. I have bills to pay and a bank balance that never seems to grow. I think worst of all, I have dreams and ideas that are sparkling in my head that I don't have the time or the energy to make reality. And who the hell wants to read about that?

Well, I do. I realize that my favorite blogs are the ones that are about REAL life. The ups and downs. Not every day is the same. Not every day is filled with craft projects and baking. Not every day is filled with perfectly edited photos of clean, freakishly neat and happy children. I love to read about achievements and good things but I don't mind the not so happy stuff either. I like a little attitude-a bit of intelligent snarkiness. I like off key.

I have been thinking about all this off and on for the past month or so and woke up today ready to write it down and I saw Kara's post.

I think when I finally grow up I want to be like her.

A new banner,cupcakes, Happy Mother's Day and a few more wrinkles.

2010-05-08T13:23:00.000-06:00

Cindy was so sweet to design this new banner for me. It celebrates my love of Marie Antoinette. Cindy is so talented and her blog is so visually beautiful-like a favorite magazine. How lucky am I?

Tomorrow is Mother's Day. I hope you will all be celebrated or celebrating. I always say I don't need presents or flowers but I do want to be acknowledged, appreciated and thanked. Tell me I am doing a good job. And yes, cooking me dinner would be awesome--even better? cleaning my kitchen afterward.

I made cards for my mom and step daughters. It was so fun. I had one of those blocks and just kept going until I worked through it. I love how the cards came out but I am saving some of them because I am going to try for the Hambly DT and I'll be using them for my entry. I have only ever tried for 2 other Dteams before. OLW and Inspired by Amelie. I love Hambly and although I don't expect to be chosen I am going to try for it.

Made some cupcakes this week in honor of my birthday. Lemon cake with lemon buttercream. yum. I am usually a chocolate girl but this time of year makes me crave lemon.

I turned 43 yesterday. My husband and boys made me dinner and I had visits from all my step-children and grandchildren. Dee sent me the most wonderful box of goodies and a book by Lynne Perrella about studios....oh I love it! Deanna and Aimee sent me some adorable handmade cards and my mother sang Happy Birthday to me over the phone as did my dear friend Kaara. I went to bed in some new strawberry Nick and Nora pj bottoms with a fresh white tshirt and woke up feeling fantastic-even after a bottle of champagne. No I didn't drink the whole thing by myself-well, almost.

Despite the gray hair I hide with dye, a few more wrinkles around my eyes and a bit of sagging around the mouth, I really don't feel any older or more grown up. In fact, I feel younger than I did 10 years ago. I have also found a wonderful trick-don't wear my glasses. I can't see the dirt on the floor or the grey hair.

Happy Mother's Day to all your mommas. Hope your day is BEAUTiful!!

2010-04-26T16:49:00.000-06:00

I have nap lines on my cheek.

I just woke up from a kitten nap in my sunny little artroom/reading room. I moved things around last weekend and gave myself more table space because I am a messy crafter and I am sick of spreading out on the dining room table. I also moved my couch and over sized chair around so it's cozier-more conducive for napping.

Thank YOu, everyone who commented and said such encouraging, kind and loving things. I am not alone in feeling overworked, overwhelmed, and in need of a nap. Whether we work at home or work outside our home, we are busier than ever. I know what I need to be doing. I need to sleep more, take my vitamins, exercise everyday, pray, make something creative, volunteer, read, drink water, cook healthy meals, talk to my children, be affectionate with my husband, LISTEN to others, mind my own business, don't gossip, have good manners if nothing else, stay organized,..........

Man, that's a whole lotta balls to juggle in the air and I didn't even talk about the annoying everyday things like work, homework, cleaning the toilet,laundry, etc.

So what to do? Well I know that self care is important and so I do try to put myself on the top of the list in some way like walking or riding my bike. Basically, it is a juggling act. You can't do everything perfectly. If I am going to be present with my children or romantic with my husband I can't always have a clean house or socks in the drawer. Sorry boys, you will be digging out of the dirty laundry bucket for socks in the morning because I forgot while we were playing a board game!

I guess it's just prioritizing and then prioritizing again. and again and again. There isn't a set way to do everything, each day changes and I need to be flexible.

Like yesterday. I had been feeling a little tired of being the cheerleader/activities director in my house. My boys are at the age when Church is not as fun as it use to be. They come but often there is grumbling. I try not to worry about it too much because I remember feeling the same way although I wouldn't have dared to voice displeasure. I can only hope and pray they find there way back like I did. Now I make it real easy for them too-service starts at 10:30 and we belong to a neighborhood church that is a 2 minute walk from our house. I asked them if they were coming and then I just got ready and left, alone. It was actually wonderful.

I then came home and packed up my scrapbooking supplies and said, "I am going to scrap, see you this afternoon." I took myself out to lunch for a delicious bowl of minestrone and an iced coffee and I parked my butt at my LSS to play. I turned my phone off and enjoyed 3 hours of me time.

You would have thought when I got home that I had been gone a week. The house was clean, laundry had been folded and put away and everyone was reading quietly. Hmm......note to self: Do this again.

This is what I was working on: DEE -don't look it's for your birthday!

I was so inspired by the paper kits that I ordered from Kara and from Debee. (you have to check out their etsy shops-the prices are so good and the kits are filled with eye candy) Add my Kenner Road kit and it was just about impossible not to runaway from home and scrap all day. It's done but I don't want to show it all so Adrienne has a surprise for her birthday!

Thanks again to everyone who left comments--you help, alot! Hope I can do the same.
Good day everyone!

2010-04-17T09:05:00.000-06:00

"There must be quite a few things a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them."
~Slyvia Plath

or a nap, a good strong cup of coffee in the mornings, a yummy little something to snack on, a good book, a sunny day, voluntary hugs from my boys, art supplies,...well my list is huge but somehow none of my usuals have helped me get out of this funk I am in. I don't want to DO anything. I do, but I don't want to.

I have been here before and I know the best thing to do is to give myself permission to not be energized, creative, passionate. It's best to tip toe, whisper and stand (or sit or recline) completely still. Long, soft sighs are allowed. I keep going but quietly. It's about conserving energy I think. When your battery is low you need to do only the necessary until you can recharge it otherwise it will be completely dead. ( which my dear children is called a nervous breakdown and is frowned upon in most societies.)

I am not perfect. I can't do everything well. I find it hard to juggle all the balls in the air. I drop many of them but I do keep picking them up. I am not a quitter but sometimes I need a nap.

Sharmaine, sent me this, among other beautiful things as a reminder.

I am re-reading two of my favorite Anne Lamott books. Traveling Mercies and Plan B-further thoughts on faith. Sometimes her words break my heart in the most wonderful ways.

"Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life."

I am off to whisper, tip toe and be perfectly, beautifully flawed.

He's got a double recracker

2010-04-01T17:44:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all your well wishes for Jameson's surgery. He did really well and is hanging in there. He is my intense child and so everything is magnified x 10. That means there is a lot of momma stepping and fetching this week and you know, I am okay with that. Today is day four and so the surgeon said this would probably be the peak pain day and I think he is right. Anyone who knows Jameson understands what I am talking about-It's been a long day but he's taking a nap and I am having a glass of wine as I start dinner. Whew! Thank goodness the weather has been off-cold and rainy/snowy, so there has been less arguing about going outside to skateboard, Rollerblade, wander.

I am hoping tomorrow will give me some time to use my new Kenner Road kit for March. I have some wonderful photos I can't wait to use.

thanks everyone for sending love-it does make a difference and I appreciate it ALOT!

2010-03-26T08:41:00.000-06:00

This gorgeous little project can be found HERE. What an awesome website. There seriously is hours of good reading and craftiness there. Lots of free print outs as well! Thanks to Celeste who is always coming up with the best links and information. I used to crop with her occasionally back in CT. and she seriously would have me laughing my fool head off as she would make like 25 AMazing layouts to my 1 maybe 2 if I was lucky. Good times with Celeste, Meredith and Karyn!! miss you women ALOT.

I have definitely been in a creative, spiritual, life slump this month. I have not wanted to work my jobs-including being a mom, wife. I am finally admitting I am a bit crispy-as in burnt out. Haven't been taking care of myself-or my spirit. I am in need of a break and I am actually starting one this afternoon at 4pm. Still nervous about Jameson's surgery on Monday but I am looking forward to not having to do anything or go anywhere for a week. (9 days actually) I will crawl out of this little hole I'm in and be just as bright and positive as usual, just need a break-and a nap!

I know Jameson will be okay, he has a wonderful surgeon and I will be there with him, just a little scary. Thank God for state subsidised health insurance! We pay a premium for the boys but it is very, very affordable and they get excellent coverage. Looking forward to that option for Bill and I at some point.

oh the sun is shining! off to clean two houses before the start of my hiatus. Yeah!!

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-23T16:04:00.001-06:00

Isn't this bathroom heavenly? I want to take a bath in that tub for sure! and then a nap. So my new fav website is Apartment Therapy. It has great ideas for decluttering, decorating and living simpler/better. The photos are super inspiring. My style is definitely eclectic mixed with antique and junk collecting. I don't have a "modern" style but I love looking at that kind of decorating. This kitchen is so cool.

I might not be able to live with that color forever but it looks fabulous for the short term. The dog is cute too!

So I have started some spring cleaning projects. First in the kitchen. Just re-organizing, decluttering and use space more efficiantly. Also some deep cleaning-the fridge, pantry shelves, and all the darn white painted trim all over the place--eek! Here is an easy tip for making your whole kitchen look super decluttered and cleaner-Take every thing OFF your fridge. I have grandchildren who give me lots of handmade pictures and paintings. I love them. I love all the photos that friends send me from far away as well but over time my refrigerator starts to look pretty cluttered. I take everything off and store it in a big plastic container just for that. It takes 1 minute and makes the whole darn place look better.

Next week is spring break for the boys and I am taking the whole week off to be with them. The downside is Jameson has to get his tonsils and adnoids removed on Monday because of sleep apnea. It's going to be a tough week for him but I plan on making him lots of milk shakes and stocking up on good movies to watch. Maybe even get some scrapbooking in. What spring projects are you up to?

Let's eat some cake-or in my case some girl scout cookies

2010-03-14T18:49:00.000-06:00

I went on a long bike ride with my husband today, so I don't feel too guilty calorie wise. Who am I kidding-I never feel guilty about calories! I probally should but I tell myself that the extra pounds are keeping the wrinkles on my face away!? Denial, like naps are good things.

One of my favorite movies is Marie Antoinette by Sophia Coppola. It's like a big frosted cupcake, so pretty! The clothes, shoes, cakes...hair, all gorgeous and pastel perfect. The sound track is rockin as well and has been in my car for like a year and a half. Bow Wow wow, the Cure, Adam and the Ants, Siouxsie and the Banshees, New Order. All that angst percussion--I LOVE it!!

So after seeing that movie about 3 years ago I wanted to know more about Marie Antoinette and started reading as many books on her as I could find. There are many and some are based on her actual diaries. She was nothing like the evil, unfeeling woman that people have said she was. She was actually very decent and extremely multi dimensional. Here's a little ode to Marie I created this weekend. More bird house silliness but now Ms. Antoinette is housed in one. She looks content I think.

Tomorrow is Monday...how on earth did that happen so fast? hope your weekend was filled with adventure.

Science has yet to drum up as an effective tranquilizing agent as a sunny,spring day

2010-03-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

Although it is snowing here today, I was dreaming of spring and creating some birdhouses that have been rolling around in this rattle trap brain of mine for some time.

All the best people are.

2010-03-06T00:04:00.001-07:00

Why is a Raven Like a Writing Desk?, originally uploaded by squeakysharpie.

Mad that is.

I saw the movie today. Hmm..it is lovely to look at although I think that the 3D added little to it. It would have been just as visually interesting without it. I was a bit dissapointed by the ending, thought it was well, kinda Disneyish and silly. I was expecting a bit more because it was Tim Burton.

The characters are amazing and there were some seriously silly parts that me and my friend Stephen laughed out loud at (no one else was laughing though)

Johnny Depp was wonderful, Helena Bonham-Carter was spot on the best of the cast, and Mia Wasikowski is a perfect Alice. She's beautiful and sorta wonky in a wonderful, endearing kind of way.

We did sip some champagne out of tea cups and then I came home and took a nap. It was a bit like falling down the rabbit hole.

I must admit I get overwhelmed by these kinds of things and probally will love it more when it comes out on video and I can watch it at home on the couch in my pj's.

*** next day***

okay I have had some coffee this morning and have been thinking more about the movie. What I love about it, is Alice's journey in becoming brave about the fact that she is different than most of those around her. She's quirky and a little strange but in such a beautiful, decent way. Those around her (in this world-not in Wonderland) all follow these contrived sets of rules. They look at Alice like she is a bit freakish because she is different and yet they are mean, shallow, dishonorable, arrogant and judgemental. These people in her world are all about appearances and not about the soul. Alice knows they are wrong and yet she is confused because many of them are in positions of authority to her. Through her journey down the rabbit hole she becomes brave. She is clear, she sees things as they truly are and the masks these people wear are gone-they no longer seem strong and in charge but small and mean. Alice is able to stand up for herself and be different without fear, knowing that she may stand alone but as someone who is authentic, and honorable. Not perfect, not having all the answers, just real-herself.

That is no small task, to make that journey of authenticity. To listen to your own voice, which is often small and quiet next to the HUGE NOISE of the crowd, the television, hollywood, politics, religion, advertising.

So that is what I liked about the film despite the corny bit at the end. I will definitely see it again when it comes out on video because it truly beautiful to see.

If anyone saw it or sees it this weekend I'd love to know what you think!

So this is how it feels

2010-02-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

This is my second weekend off in a row. It's a bit like Heaven having two full days off isn't it? Time to relax, craft, get some things done, grocery shop, hang out, ride bikes. Wow, I like this ALOT!

look what I did over the weekend.

Used my Kenner Road kits from January and February and threw the IRISH one in there with stuff laying on the old desk.

Next week Alice in Wonderland is out! I am so so excited and have decided to be one of those freaky people and wear my costume. I have always been a fan of everything Alice. Years ago Sommersett Studio did a magazine on Alice in Wonderland and I still have it by my bed. The art is so funky and a bit dark but in a fun, childlike way. I am going to bring my tea cup but what to sip out of it?

It is sunny and 54 degrees in Missoula Montana. I see snow on the mountains but here in the valley it's a bit brown and mucky. Spring means mud here but that's actually fun if you have the right shoes. I love my black and white polka dot rain boots. I am picturing a dress with colorful tights and my boots. I am riding my bike to the bakery for a pain au chocolate and a coffee. Oh spring is coming!

What delights have indulged your senses this weekend?

Investing in yourself

2010-02-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

Three years ago I would never have imagined I would be cleaning homes for a living, or that it would be as successful and well paying as it is. I actually almost entirely support my family with this "little" business that I started 2+ years ago by accident. Life is funny that way.

I take this job seriously. I provide a service for women that makes their lives easier, better and more stress free. I am into the details of the job. I check the fridge and wipe down the shelves if they look dirty. I wipe the shmutz of the cabinets, at exactly toddler height. (usually peanut butter and jelly) I vacuum underneath the stove. I detail the glass shower door so that it looks like new. I fluff pillows, water plants and change lightbulbs. I make beds, wash sheets and organize linen closets. (I fold a perfect fitted sheet-Martha would be proud) And yes Adrienne, I clean baseboards.

I've realized something while doing this. Like some women need to have their hair done once a month or they feel..well, not quite right; some women need to have their homes cleaned once a week to feel good. From an outsiders view, their homes are spotless. All 4,000+ feet of their million dollar home has nary a dust bunnie in it but they breathe a sigh of relief when I walk in the door to clean. In these homes I usually come equiped with a box of q-tips for getting dirt out of tiny places. But I wash every "clean" surface in that house whether it needs it or not. I happily do this because as silly as it seems, it makes them so happy, and it pays well.

Now there are also the women that work outside the home and have children they are mothers to. These woman are frazzled. Their large homes are overwhelming. They aren't filthy just in need of help and organizing and some spit shine. I like these homes the best because I feel like I am really helping. I once had a woman who after a first cleaning/detailing, left me a message on my cell phone thanking me-she was crying because she was so overwhelmed. Sounds silly I know but I get it. It's like last monday when I got home after a 10 hour day and my husband had done laundry and made dinner. I cried too.

Times are hard for many people right now and I know that it is scary when you can't figure out how to pay your bills or what you can do to change your situation. I have been there and although things are looking up for us...(God forbid I get sick or hurt) we are on a tight budget. Don't give up. You may be surprised by what life throws at you. I think what I have learned through the struggling is that it's important to be open to the possiblities. Cleaning homes is not how I imagined using my time and talents. I would have preferred teaching again or owning another cool retail space (much more glamorous occupations) but I finally surrendered to the idea that I can't always have it my way. So much for a college education! In the end it doesn't really matter. And who knows what life has in store for me in the future?

Wow, LOONG post to say this: I bought a Dyson. I saved some money and bought this:

I had been borrowing an old version from a friend who wasn't using it and I decided it was about time to invest in my business.

I have been busy working,reading, crafting and teaching my new Art Journaling Class at a free after school program for middleschoolers. I have 14 students this semester and have had to rethink my loose, free-flow teaching style. Too many kids for that. Each class we use only a few different supplies at a time and switch it up each week. They are loving it so far.

So tell me what delicious surprises have come your way lately.

Where's the Love?

2010-02-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

Oh don't get me started on Valentines Day. I love the sentiment of the day, just not the trappings. I love the idea of it just not the crap that goes along with it. Do the dishes and vacumm the house and you can forget the box of chocolates and the card you rushed to find just before getting home from work. I know for a fact my husband would rather have a backrub and for me to stop for 10 minutes and actually pay attention to him than a stuffed animal or some other silly thing. But that's just me. It's sorta of like Christmas. Give presence instead of all the other stuff that costs a lot and end up in the garbage.

Except for cards, or handmade gifts. Those are special. Oh alright, chocolate is always good too! Happy Valentines Day. Cheers to love and kindness and doing something special for someone!

I am taking an internet break for a bit. Busy and need some time to get things done and rest. I was just telling a friend how wonderful it is to feel a connection to the people I have met on line. So as corny as this sounds, I will miss you guys for the next several days. Have a great weekend.

A tad bit of glitter

2010-02-03T14:37:00.001-07:00

*, originally uploaded by mariehochhaus.

Isn't this a cool photo?
She's so lovely.

I am dreaming today of sunshine.
I am remembering someone I used to be.

lonnngg blondish beach hair
confused
cowboy boots with denim shorts
big hoop earrings
red lipstick
boys I didn't no how to say goodbye to
a black leather satchel filled with:
Jane Austen
a composition book
collection of pens
black sharpie
address book
stamps
toothbrush
wine opener
black restuarant apron
duck tape wallet
hair bands
red lipstick
black eyeliner
gum

Hmm..

got to get ready for work. Barrys Irish Breakfast with whole milk is giving me the courage I need! I"ll leave you with this layout I made with more glitter and Kenner Road. My granddaughters Aubrey (big sis) and Jordan.

Don't put glass glitter in your pockets

2010-01-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

I really do put glitter in my pockets some times. It started after I closed my scrapbooking store in Ct. To me, any day that ends up with some glitter on your face is a good day. Well when I owned the store and was teaching classes and doing demos, I would come home with glitter on me most days. My boys thought it was pretty. When I closed the store I used to miss it so I put glitter in my pockets sometimes and it just made things better. My favorite place to sprinkle glitter is at church. Just a little, when no one is looking. It makes people curious. I know I am weird but honestly, it's the little things that make me happy.

So I love my Kenner Road kit. So pretty. I love vintage, soft and feminine but I usually don't scrapbook that way. I have all these gorgeous photos of Jordan, my newest grand-daughter, and this kit just fits perfectly. She is so dang sweet and pretty and I guess the crazy spray painted backgrounds don't seem to fit with her cute little face.

My favorite thing in the kit? A little bag of silver glass glitter. It is real crushed glass so it's super sparkly but seriously, don't put it in your pockets-ouch.

working with what you've got

2010-01-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

It's January. blech.
gray, cold and the winter seems to stretch out forever.
Then there's working with what you've got.

Made some broccoli soup.
roasting a chicken tonight and baking brownies.
Oh did I mention, this is my one tuesday a month off from work.
Kenner Road kit came--beautiful.
Just landed another client [will not count weekly hours ;) ]
Netflix movies coming today.
this photo of my grandaughters.

"If your everday life seems poor, don't
blame it; blame yourself; admit to
yourself that you are not enough of a poet
to call forth it's riches;
because for the creator there is no poverty
and no poor indifferent place."
~Rainer Maria Rilke

This looks pretty dang cool

2010-01-21T08:49:00.001-07:00

I am not a gadget girl. I don't own any diecut machines. But this looks cool-especially the edge cutter. Apparently it can cut material, chipboard, etc. I really enjoy Tim Holtz. I think he has some good ideas and certainly knows how to package them. I am a sucker for packaging and "the look" of things. It's nice when things look good and are good.

That being said, I will not be purchasing this gadget but it sures looks fun! I am curious if anyone else thinks it's cool and is actually going to buy any of the dies and what you think of them when you finally get your hands on them.

I did purchase a subscription to this kit club. Kenner Road has some of the best kits and

Kerry Lynn is a altered art genius in my opinion. The design team is filled with some of my favorite scrapbookers as well so it's a good fit for me. I used to subscribe to Poppyink before all the kookiness, and I loved it. I found I scrapped a lot having the kit come every month. Also I don't love my local scrapbooking store. It's okay but doesn't have the things I really want to try. I feel like Kenner Road fits my taste and I get to try new product without buying on line which is always a disaster because then I want too much so I end up getting nothing. I think kit clubs are a good idea and many are reasonably priced. Right now for me it still is a lot but with a new client (and selling my plasma twice a week) I decided to treat myself. I don't shop so this will be a fun surprise each month.

Does anyone else have a kit club favorite? What are you excited to see from CHA? I hope who ever got to go has a great time!!

In the Queue

2010-01-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

Cindy has a new blog. It's called StoryBoardC. It just looks yummy. I wish I could actually do what I think in my head with this blog but seriously, she does it right. It's pretty, inspiring and she has such a great eye! A few posts ago she commented on must see movies and Netflix. It's winter here in Montana and if it isn't just frigid, it's icy and dangerous so walking or other outside activities (besides skiing) is out. We watch a lot of movies together as a family. Not so much tv. but on a cold winter night there is nothing better than a good movie. So what's in my queue?

The Thief Lord-orphaned children in Venice, mystery, a boy named Prosper (seriously I almost want to get pregnant one last time to name my child Prosper)

Kung Fu Panda-yeah we are a bit old in our house for cartoony type movies but we love this one.

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor-the boys like it and I have a bit of a thing for Brendan Frasier.

The Alamo

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Mouse Hunt

Grey Gardens

Get Smart

The Warrior

Wakeing Ned Devine

5 children and It

The Namesake

Run Fatboy, run

The Mission

A River Runs Through it

The Cave of the Yellow Dog

Ramen Girl

City of Ember

Bottle Shock

Mrs Henderson Presents

I have yet to weigh it heavily with my favorite types of movies-Kung Fu and Jane Austen adaptations. In that order.

No naps to report but I did manage to use my crazy spray paint backgrounds and make 3 layouts.

I am working nights all weekend but will have Sunday off, really looking forward to having a day without work!! Still, I am very grateful to be working, one day off a week or not. Hope you are having a great weekend. What are you crafting, cooking, eating or planning? Oh and if you have any good movie suggestions, let me know! Gotta fill up that queue.