Timber found his way to us via the rescue group. He's a great foster. Check out his cute picture. He's five and very settled down, likes to cuddle, gentle as he can get. One great dog, he keeps Suzie in line. We laughed really hard because he has a tendency to sit on her when she gets too rowdy. The only down side, he got caught digging a hole in the back yard. He and Suzie took a bath because by the time he was done they were both covered in mud. Thank goodness, Andrew was home and he had to give them both a bath before they could run in the house. If we were ready for another big dog, he'd be a keeper.
Scrapbdazzled by One Big Yellow Dog
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Land in Chicago, meet Lisa. Get out GPS, try and load turn by turn from the website, no luck. Get out the turn by turn guide book, and start reading. Use the list of sightseeing stops to find our first stop. Had a slight detour, navigator did a poor job of finding Willowbrook and Del Rhia's Chicken Basket. But we did succeed.
Yum!
Next stop Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.
And finally the Gemini Giant.
Scrapbdazzled by Day 1 on the Mother Road
Sunday, August 16, 2009
And it just so happens my rain barrels are green. Two are installed with a third still waiting. I feel so good right now, I am doing something for the environment, cutting back on my water bill and making my house my own.
Scrapbdazzled by my little 70's Ranch House on Lake Lavon
Scrapbdazzled by my little 70's Ranch House on Lake Lavon
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
He's the calmest lab we've fostered, full of personality and charm. Mitchell makes sweet eyes when you start petting him and leans over against your leg. Like there's no other place he wants to be. He's two years old, yellow and the usual skinny and losing hair by the handful. He knows how to give Suzie good quarter when they are playing.
He came to us with a collar and tag. The tag has the name of the vet clinic and a phone number/address from Carlsbad, NM. Apparently the shelter he ended up at tried to track down his owners. I can't imagine who or why anyone would willing give him up. There's been no accidents, countersurfing or chewing things up. Only two days with us and I'd say he's a great dog!
Scrapbdazzled by Mitchell
Saturday, July 25, 2009
End of Day 8 - Final group dinner, the specialty of the house; duck. Interesting dinner it was a close second for laughter. (Team dinner in Sofia wins the prize for laughter) Again, it was a shop until you drop. There were two interesting shops, both closed by the time we finished dinner. Note to self, return early on Saturday to enrich the Czech economy. Meet the rudest waiter from Prague possible at a cafe near our hotel while searching for an after dinner drink. He weaved his way over to our table and made the most of the eye rolling and impossibly terrible waiter behavior possible. I could hardly keep my tongue. Prague will not be remembered for it's customer service (see notes on other restaurants and service in future posts). I exacted my revenge when paying the tab. 196 KC, paid with 200 KC, when he stood there weaving in front of us waiting for more, my comment to him, "That's all I am going to pay for rudeness and eye rolling." Seriously, I wouldn't be surprised if he had a drink for every one he served. And yet that didn't stop him from behaving like an @$$.
Day 7 & 8 - Two whirlwind days of tours for embassy, businesses and more limping along for miles on my ankle. P&G was by far the best "global company" tour, but a local IT firm demonstrated the Czech's are making a name for themselves. Dinner on Day 7 "Pizza"? Not bad for Prague, but definitely not what I was expecting. I suppose it doesn't hurt to deviate from my strategy of eat, drink and be merry as though I am a local. We had great fun. I had no idea how hard people can shop!
Day 6 - Travel to Prague, but first a trip to the Museum of Archeology in Sofi
Day 4 & 5 - First round of meetings, interesting perspectives from local consulting firm, the embassy and bank. Wondering how Bugaria will succeed with corruption and lack of EU funds. series of meetings with businesses, the worst presentation, IT company (which remains nameless) offering services and support that couldn't run it's own equipment. Best presentation, construction and real estate services, very strategic and on top of it. He's slated to become one of the ministers in the newly formed minority government.
Day 2 - Tough Day, still adjusting to time difference. Dinner at a local restaurant was the difference. Laughed and share a rumor that I still have a hard time believing. Two of our professors married to each other, didn't see that coming in a million years. Early to bed and trouble sleeping.
Day 1- Travel day. Up early, Andrew drove me out to the airport before work, (thank goodness). Checked my bags all the way through to Sofia. Spent some time pampering myself at the airport. What's a girl to do with four hours before her flight? Found out I don't need ID or boarding pass to go through Customs or Security while in Frankfurt. That's the beauty of flying on American! Lost Tom temporarily in Frankfurt, but he caught up with us before the flight to Sofia.
Finally Scrapbdazzled By My Absolutely Last Class and a Trip to Be Remembered
Monday, June 22, 2009
Cyrus went to his forever home today. His new owner seemed just delighted to have him there. Of course, Cyrus was his lovable self. I think he's going to do very well. But the best part of my story? Andrew went with me, because I didn't think it was a good idea to go over to some stranger's house by myself. Andrew's usually not home when fosters get adopted, so he really hasn't experienced the heart wrench when they leave the house with their new parents.
I did pretty good when we left and as we were leaving, Andrew said he didn't want to come with me again. It's too hard. As we were driving home, we were talking about Cyrus and I happened to look over and saw his face was wet with tears. I gave his arm and squeeze and said it would be ok. I should have kept quiet, we both started bawling over leaving Cyrus.
Even though we both knew we were "only" fostering, Cyrus made a spot in our hearts that can't easily be filled. Even though I've said Suzie's the "only" dog we are going to adopt, Cyrus was family already. I won't give up fostering, but there are times when it's incredibly hard. Cyrus was one of those hard cases.
We've fostered enough to know how fast they worm their way into your hearts. But with most fosters, its been ok to let them go, knowing that they are going to a good home with a family that will love them. Three times since we started fostering, there's been the CLICK, where the dog just is a part of us. Luckily for us, we were able to keep one of the CLICK's, I can't imagine Suzie any place else but home with us. Cyrus is another. The third was a temp foster I agreed to take over Thanksgiving, and it was heart wrenching when we couldn't keep her.
But with Cyrus, I know he's in a good home. Sometimes it's just one of those things, call it my intuition, but I get the feeling his new owner is going to be very devoted to him. Cyrus has the same way about him, once he loves you, it's total devotion. Nothing is as important to him than being with you and close to you. Except maybe food!
Twice Scrapbdazzled - By My Son and his Big Heart and Through my Tears for Cyrus and his New Home.
I did pretty good when we left and as we were leaving, Andrew said he didn't want to come with me again. It's too hard. As we were driving home, we were talking about Cyrus and I happened to look over and saw his face was wet with tears. I gave his arm and squeeze and said it would be ok. I should have kept quiet, we both started bawling over leaving Cyrus.
Even though we both knew we were "only" fostering, Cyrus made a spot in our hearts that can't easily be filled. Even though I've said Suzie's the "only" dog we are going to adopt, Cyrus was family already. I won't give up fostering, but there are times when it's incredibly hard. Cyrus was one of those hard cases.
We've fostered enough to know how fast they worm their way into your hearts. But with most fosters, its been ok to let them go, knowing that they are going to a good home with a family that will love them. Three times since we started fostering, there's been the CLICK, where the dog just is a part of us. Luckily for us, we were able to keep one of the CLICK's, I can't imagine Suzie any place else but home with us. Cyrus is another. The third was a temp foster I agreed to take over Thanksgiving, and it was heart wrenching when we couldn't keep her.
But with Cyrus, I know he's in a good home. Sometimes it's just one of those things, call it my intuition, but I get the feeling his new owner is going to be very devoted to him. Cyrus has the same way about him, once he loves you, it's total devotion. Nothing is as important to him than being with you and close to you. Except maybe food!
Twice Scrapbdazzled - By My Son and his Big Heart and Through my Tears for Cyrus and his New Home.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
He's just a big bundle (88lbs) of love. Cyrus is our newest foster. He's very sweet and much calmer than Suzie. As Suzie found out when she wanted to play. He like to stretch out on the tile floor and nap, which causes Suzie to stand over him and bark in his ear. He doesn't pay any attention to her and continues to sleep.
He came to us a little skinny on the rear end with big handfuls of fur falling out and just starving for attention. He's starting to catch up on the weight, the fur's is still falling out, but he certainly has all the attention and love he want's. He loves to come sit next to me and gently leans over puts his head on my lap and gives me the big brown eyed look. I can't resist!
It's funny how different each of the foster's have been, Cyrus doesn't like being outside. He does his business and comes right back to the door. Maybe if it wasn't so hot outside. I have to laugh at the two dogs together, Suzie is just dying to play with him outside. While he's trotting around sniffing, she's getting ready to pounce on him, crouching down getting ready to launch into a crazed charge across the yard. Cyrus takes it all in stride, and bobs, dodges and weaves her advance.
Cyrus is scrapbdazzling for his gentle personality.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Roux and the color of roux is very important to the type of dish you are making. I thought her example of the four spoons was very helpful. We sampled some local root beer and beer from Abita, both were excellent, even though I don't really like beer. Bread pudding might actually have grown on me.
First day here, we behaved like typical tourists, Nat got this awesome picture of down of the streets. It's been 22 years since I was last here, the place has changed a little. Of course, Katrina had an impact. I was shocked to see the number of buildings still empty or undergoing renovation. The place is still beautiful with a special sense of place that is truly unique to the Quarter and the people. I loved looking at the buildings and we are talking about finding a place to rent and coming next year for a week and living down in the quarter, to get a true sense of place. One thing I can promise, we are going to come when the weather is cooler. Hopefully it will keep down the stench of trash and puke on Bourbon Street.
Scrapbdazzled by the Letting the Good Times Roll in NOLA
Saturday, May 16, 2009
It's done! The walk is over, the fun begins! Well not entirely, the team still has six more sections to write of our business plan and one totally awesome trip to make to Eastern Europe. But I've done the cool part, the walk to get the pretend diploma. I am so glad I decided to do it, this is my last time in college for educational purposes that follow career path goals.
From now on, it's education for fun only PERIOD!
From now on, it's education for fun only PERIOD!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Creative, talented, inspiring, and full of laughter.
Six excellent classes with talented artists, five mini classes, four new friends, three happy hours, two wonderful women close to my heart, and one amazing time. Call it Inspired 2009!
Scrapbdazzled by my trip with friends new and old with creative overtones.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Freida got adopted today by a lovely couple. She was her usual sweet self, I am not surprised that they decided to adopt her. She'll be a good addition to their family. She did her noodle trick of sliding off the sofa and landing on the floor. They loved it. While they were filling out their application, she made an adorable nuisance of herself. Bouncing up to sit on them, putting her head in Brian's lap, giving kisses to Liz. She was too cute!
Scrapbdazzled by Freida or "Little Bit"
Scrapbdazzled by Freida or "Little Bit"
Friday, April 10, 2009
Maybe I should say Joker and Riddler as much trouble as they get into. Suzie with the kong, is our girl, Freida or "Little Bit" as we call her, are roughly the same age, Suzie's got 30 pounds and a couple of inches on Freida. But Freida makes up for it and makes sure Suzie doesn't overwhelm her. They make a cute pair, we almost committed foster failurism again. Thank goodness we came to our senses. I thought this was an adorable picture of the two of them. Freida's meeting her potential family tomorrow morning. I am very excited for her, she's so sweet and very loveable. I hope they see it also, she's going make a great adoptee for some lucky family.
Scrapbdazzled by 2 Chocolate Knuckle Heads
Monday, April 06, 2009
Yep, that's the big day, finally after too long, I'll be taking the long walk across the stage!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy? That's an understatement. I've bought my graduation announcements, (I'll admit it only so I can have one to scrapbook) yes, I'll mail out 24 of them not that it matters. I have my tickets, probably will only use the one for Andrew and I am going tomorrow to get my cap and gown. I can not believe it, I am so close to graduation. UTD doesn't have a summer graduation ceremony, so I had a choice, May or December. Ya, like there really was any choice on that one, I'll pass on waiting until December.
Count me Scrapbdazzled by May Graduation Ceremonies. I can hardly wait!
Count me Scrapbdazzled by May Graduation Ceremonies. I can hardly wait!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Add parts buried in the back yard + one new post, mix in some sweat equity digging out the old post and with a dash of concrete to hold the new post. Bake over night to set up concrete. Decorate with gate and missing chain link.
Voila, one replaced section of fence with gate. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get the chain link back in place? Using some tie downs with and racheting tight worked just fine!
Thursday, March 05, 2009
I just can't get over what a beautiful dog she is, perfect form, gracefully bouncy all in the same package.
Andrew and I are so lucky to have her as a part of our family. Scrapbdazzled by Suzie
With the greatest pleasure, I am posting a birthday present I received from my friend Josiane. I watched her create these for several gifts and oohh'd and ahhh'd over them while she put them together. I know she planned to give them as gifts. I just kept hoping I'd be lucky enough to receive one. And voila! At lunch at our favorite Thai restaurant off McArthur in Irving, I became one of the lucky few!
This so tickles me to have one, it's in it's place of honor on my hutch in my scrapbook room where I can look at it with pleasure!
Scrapbdazzled by my Generous and Talented Friend Josiane
Monday, February 02, 2009
Updated 15 February, Swoozie has become Suzie and has her forever home with us. Turns out she's a perfect match for us, with a few problems that will be helped with training, she's very special. We spend Saturday together in the back yard, me working and her chasing everything that moved, birds, shadows and herself. She wore herself completely out by the time I was finished in the backyard and spent the afternoon and evening curled up in a ball on the sofa fast asleep, when I got ready to go to bed, I found she had put herself in her kennel without being told. Too cute!
Scrapbdazzled by our Dog, Suzie
At first she was a sad doggy, but with a few days in her new foster home she's starting to settle in. Way too smart for her own good, and too much determination, she knows how to open the gate so she can go and find the cat.
Her previous foster liason, said she looks a little like a giraffe, all legs and neck. I must admit it's true, plus Swoozie has a extra funny way of using her long neck. She can turn her head practically around to look at you.
Very laidback and relaxed, just a lover. But when she gets a wild hair, watch out. She loves to leap and run and fetch with the best of them. She needs a buddy to play with, I can see where she'd be lonely in a one dog household.
There a lot of doggy talk, I suppose she's trying to tell me something, but I not sure what yet. She knows her commands of sit, stay and leave it. Andrew's been walking her and says she's pretty good at heeling.
Her fur is velvety soft, beautiful chocolate with red tones. It would be very easy to fall in love with her. See for yourself...... Scrapbdazzled by One Sweet Dog
Scrapbdazzled by our Dog, Suzie
Her previous foster liason, said she looks a little like a giraffe, all legs and neck. I must admit it's true, plus Swoozie has a extra funny way of using her long neck. She can turn her head practically around to look at you.
Very laidback and relaxed, just a lover. But when she gets a wild hair, watch out. She loves to leap and run and fetch with the best of them. She needs a buddy to play with, I can see where she'd be lonely in a one dog household.
There a lot of doggy talk, I suppose she's trying to tell me something, but I not sure what yet. She knows her commands of sit, stay and leave it. Andrew's been walking her and says she's pretty good at heeling.
Her fur is velvety soft, beautiful chocolate with red tones. It would be very easy to fall in love with her. See for yourself...... Scrapbdazzled by One Sweet Dog
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Facebook entries, and I thought blogging was bad, now I have two sites to keep up with. What was I thinking? So let me punish you twice, head over to if you want to see more photos
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1264254821#/profile.php?id=1594321729&ref=profile&pub=2309869772
Scrapbdazzled by Facebook and reconnecting with friends and family.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1264254821#/profile.php?id=1594321729&ref=profile&pub=2309869772
Scrapbdazzled by Facebook and reconnecting with friends and family.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Scrapbdazzled by the Holiday Season
Inquisitive, full of energy and fun. Here's our latest foster. Coco or Chica as I like to call her, is a real peach. She's still very much a puppy in a lot of ways, mostly good ways, housebroken, knows her doggy commands, and is happy. We have plans to meet a potential family next week, I hope things go well for her, she really needs a forever home, so she can settle in and give all the love she has stored up to her new family. They have a previously adopted lab from the rescue group, this is a good thing as she's lonely for a brother or sister or cousin to play with.
Scrapbdazzled by Sweet, Rowdy Chica
Monday, January 05, 2009
Update!!!!! I found my camera, thank goodness. I can scratch San Antonio at Christmas off my BL.
Scrapbdazzled by my Nikon CoolPix
I can only remember I had it on Christmas Eve. It holds the most important thing: Pictures, from Christmas and our vacation. I can't find my camera any where. I am only hoping it didn't get left at the hotel. Sigh, Here's hoping I find it.
In the mean time, you'll have to use your imagination. Can't you just see my smiling face watching my son open his presents and opening his awesome gift to me. I got a really nice tool box, one like you know "boys and their toys".
You'll have to imagine the beautiful Christmas lights on the Riverwalk. They were picture perfect and the Riverwalk was nearly deserted.
Not So Scrapbdazzled While My Camera is Missing.
Scrapbdazzled by my Nikon CoolPix
I can only remember I had it on Christmas Eve. It holds the most important thing: Pictures, from Christmas and our vacation. I can't find my camera any where. I am only hoping it didn't get left at the hotel. Sigh, Here's hoping I find it.
In the mean time, you'll have to use your imagination. Can't you just see my smiling face watching my son open his presents and opening his awesome gift to me. I got a really nice tool box, one like you know "boys and their toys".
You'll have to imagine the beautiful Christmas lights on the Riverwalk. They were picture perfect and the Riverwalk was nearly deserted.
Not So Scrapbdazzled While My Camera is Missing.
Did I mention that I've been blessed and consider myself very lucky. I've reached a point in my life where I can afford to express myself through scrapbooking and mixed media outlets. Blessed in the sense that I can afford to challenge myself through classes and retreats to try new things. My creative outlet affords me relief from the stress of every day life.
So my big news; I signed up for another Michelle Ward workshop retreat in Wisconsin at Valley Ridge Art Studio http://www.valleyridgeartstudio.com/ for October 2009.
Here's the direct link for Michelle's workshop.
http://www.valleyridgeartstudio.com/programs/workshop.asp?WorkshopID=125
I am so excited about this workshop because I'll be building on things I've learned from the last two years. She's also going to demonstrate some stamp carving. I can't wait to learn.
Scrapbdazzled by Michelle Ward, Valley Ridge Art Studio and the Lovely Cows of Wisconsin
So my big news; I signed up for another Michelle Ward workshop retreat in Wisconsin at Valley Ridge Art Studio http://www.valleyridgeartstudio.com/ for October 2009.
Here's the direct link for Michelle's workshop.
http://www.valleyridgeartstudio.com/programs/workshop.asp?WorkshopID=125
I am so excited about this workshop because I'll be building on things I've learned from the last two years. She's also going to demonstrate some stamp carving. I can't wait to learn.
Scrapbdazzled by Michelle Ward, Valley Ridge Art Studio and the Lovely Cows of Wisconsin
Monday, December 08, 2008
It took more than two years, but I finally got to attend a retreat. It couldn't have been a nicer time. Josiane and I signed up to go to Megan's Place http://www.megansplacetocrop.com/
Myrel is the owner, chief bottle washer and hostess. She's an excellent hostess and chef, the house, cooking and pampering couldn't have been any better. I was very lucky that Josiane invited me and so glad I accepted.
I spent the weekend organizing unfinished projects from the last two years. In the middle of sorting, downsizing and repacking, I managed to find several projects needed some quick fixes to become "completed". The definition of completed, means paper tacked in the right spot, some embellishments fixed in place, ribbon tied on and creatively cut. What's not in the definition, pictures and the final, final tweaks to the album. I found several needing binding. Thanks goodness I brought my trusted Bind-It-All and closed those rings up tight!
I had the best weekend in a long time and I am so organized for the next crop or retreat that comes along.
I am printing photos for the final, final.
Scrapbdazzled by my Friend for inviting me and Myrel's Hospitality
Myrel is the owner, chief bottle washer and hostess. She's an excellent hostess and chef, the house, cooking and pampering couldn't have been any better. I was very lucky that Josiane invited me and so glad I accepted.
I spent the weekend organizing unfinished projects from the last two years. In the middle of sorting, downsizing and repacking, I managed to find several projects needed some quick fixes to become "completed". The definition of completed, means paper tacked in the right spot, some embellishments fixed in place, ribbon tied on and creatively cut. What's not in the definition, pictures and the final, final tweaks to the album. I found several needing binding. Thanks goodness I brought my trusted Bind-It-All and closed those rings up tight!
I had the best weekend in a long time and I am so organized for the next crop or retreat that comes along.
I am printing photos for the final, final.
Scrapbdazzled by my Friend for inviting me and Myrel's Hospitality
Monday, December 01, 2008
I suppose I should expect these things to happen. But it still not fun to have it happen to you. You do everything you think you can do to keep it from happening, but still in the end.....
And then of course there's the end.
And then of course there's the end.
- The end is never pretty.
- You don't want to do it.
- But you have to put your foot down.
- And say enough is enough.
- Set your traps and get it over with.
- Snap.
- And then it's over.
Arrivederci- Hasta La Vista Mousey!
Where's that Darn Cat when I need her!
How dare he run directly in front of me across the kitchen floor and behind the dog's bowl.
Not so Scrapbdazzled when I am catching Mice in the house.
And then of course there was the marshmallows. What does a dog do with a marshmallow, why you play with it of course! Until it sticks to the bottom of your paw and then you can't find it.
There's the frisbee, the yard to sniff and inspect all the corners and spots inbetween.
DFW Lab Rescue has been the best experience for our home, it's brought the special personality of labs back and reminds you of the wonder of unconditional love. Lost, abused, abandoned when it would seem all hope should be gone. They bring the joy and pleasure of life with them, each in their own individual way. We have been blessed to know all three.
Hoping that she finds her forever home with us. Meera is one in a million.
Scrapbdazzled by Meera the Puppy
Hhmm, there's still time for a trip to Walmart for a costume!
11-18-08 Lee was adopted and went to her forever home, it was so neat to see how happy her new mom and dad were.
Scrapbdazzled by Lee the Lab
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sam is an awesome dog, but he's already found a home, and has moved on. We miss him terribly. Here's the most adorable picture of him. Andrew is going to really miss him. Sam bonded with him right away. You could really tell that his previous owner must have been a guy, because Sam gravitated to Andrew immediately. When he needed something he went to Andrew first. Kind of a let down for me, because I am so use to being the Mom and everyone comes to me if they want or need something. Not that he didn't come to me if he needed food, to go out or to play, but when Andrew was home, Sam would go to him first.
Sam validated my thoughts about having a big dog and specifically a lab again. It was a good choice and we are both looking forward to our next foster!
Scrapbdazzled by Labradors
Isn't he a real cutie? I am becoming a foster mom for labs and this is Samson. He's going to be my first foster. I am picking him up from the vet in Ft. Worth and bringing him home on Saturday. I'll let you know how it goes on Saturday.
Scrapbdazzled by Samson!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Saturday was TOO much fun. Steps to having TOO much fun...............
- There was a slight mishap with timing and alarm clocks. (Good story to giggle over in years to come.)
- Headed out to Waco with Josiane and Gloria! My BSF's!
- Stopped to get kolaches on I-35.
- I got to see my two favoritest sky blue friends Elsa and Roxanne.
- I received a truly adorable notebook covered in my favority theme, Halloween fabric, from my sky blue friend, Elsa.
- Got crafty at Crop, Paper, Scissors, http://www.croppaper.com/. The store owner is such a nice person!
- Spent the day being three*creative with Debby. The Memory Bee (She's a genius! See my Houston book in previous posts!)
- Wrapped up the whole day with dinner with more new SF.
This was my version of the (Ted and Bill)except that it's; Bernie, Josiane and Gloria's excellent adventures.
I am looking forward to next month's adventures.
Scrapbdazzled
Friday, September 19, 2008
I am going to see Debby Schuh tomorrow!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
How hard can it be? The trim needs to be completed on the floors. How hard can it be to cut the mitered corners and 45's where the trim butts against the next piece. I have a coping saw and a metal moulding guide. How hard can it be?
Well perfection aside, and a handsaw with miterbox later. Not so bad. Here's my effort at hand cutting the trim.
Well perfection aside, and a handsaw with miterbox later. Not so bad. Here's my effort at hand cutting the trim.
Thank goodness for the nail gun! OH yeah and the dremel too, I couldn't have made this cut around the door without it.
Scrapbdazzled by Nail Guns, Air Compressors and Dremels
Plans were set, travel arrangements made, the hotel room booked and the event paid in full. And then came the fateful phone call.
Canceled. Canceled. Total disappointment, no 7 Gypsies.
I got a quick refund and little did I know a very nice surprise was coming in the mail. You won't believe the scrapbooking supplies they sent. I couldn't have been more excited. Take a look at the photos. 7 Gypsies scores very high marks in my book. First time that a cancelation had such a positive outcome.
Scrapbdazzled by 7 Gypsies
Canceled. Canceled. Total disappointment, no 7 Gypsies.
I got a quick refund and little did I know a very nice surprise was coming in the mail. You won't believe the scrapbooking supplies they sent. I couldn't have been more excited. Take a look at the photos. 7 Gypsies scores very high marks in my book. First time that a cancelation had such a positive outcome.
Scrapbdazzled by 7 Gypsies
"The purpose of life is to listen - to yourself, to your neighbor, to your world and to God and, when the time comes, to respond in as helpful a way as you can find... from within and without."
Fred Rogers
Perfect don't you think? If only we all practiced this more often. Too often, its about only hearing enough of what the other person says to be able to respond back with your own "important" opinion. I'll admit I am guilty of this also. So I am practicing, listening actively, by hearing what the other person says and then repeating it back to them. If they respond with a positive return, I know I actually heard them. Its particularly hard to practice when it's someone that wants to take the conversation in their own direction, stepping it up a notch and only applying their concerns or own position. I have to remind myself, that they don't realize my objective and keep on track actively listening to them and their concerns, patience and actively responding back to their concerns will allow them to feel heard and empowered to actively listen to me also. Wish it was as easy as it sounds.
Fred Rogers
Perfect don't you think? If only we all practiced this more often. Too often, its about only hearing enough of what the other person says to be able to respond back with your own "important" opinion. I'll admit I am guilty of this also. So I am practicing, listening actively, by hearing what the other person says and then repeating it back to them. If they respond with a positive return, I know I actually heard them. Its particularly hard to practice when it's someone that wants to take the conversation in their own direction, stepping it up a notch and only applying their concerns or own position. I have to remind myself, that they don't realize my objective and keep on track actively listening to them and their concerns, patience and actively responding back to their concerns will allow them to feel heard and empowered to actively listen to me also. Wish it was as easy as it sounds.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Check out the link, Debby is so cool, she sent a personal email to her students in Texas letting them know she's going to be in Waco. Now is that personal customer service or what?
http://www.croppaper.com/Classes_Main.htm
We got a email even before the store's newsletter came out. So block off the 20th of September and meet me in Waco or in Dallas and we can drive down together.
Hey, Josiane and I are pictured on Mellie's blog, does this mean we are famous? Nah, probably not.
http://www.croppaper.com/Classes_Main.htm
We got a email even before the store's newsletter came out. So block off the 20th of September and meet me in Waco or in Dallas and we can drive down together.
Hey, Josiane and I are pictured on Mellie's blog, does this mean we are famous? Nah, probably not.
Monday, August 11, 2008
I wouldn't have picked Stillwater as a place to go scrapbook, it's a long drive and there's not much shopping to be done in the town. But all things considered, Melody was going to be there teaching. I've met her once before at Scrap Lover's in San Jose and thought she was pretty talented then. She was quiet and reserved, but of course anyone would seem quiet compared Danelle and Kristi.
There were three classes offered in Stillwater. Josiane and I agreed to take all three and drive up together. We left GiGi home and took her car since GiGi's so expensive and there were only the two of us going. Of all three classes my favorite was the Autumn mini -album, pictures will have to follow since only my cover is completed. We stamped and stamped and stamped in the first two. I am sort of out of my element, not a big stamper. You wouldn't think so to see my closet full of stamps, but hoarding is not the same as stamping. Needless to say, be watching for my photos, I'll post all three as soon as I get them finished.
One last note, we managed to find a Big Lots and score some great bargains on Basic Gray ribbon and Making Memories embellishments. I see a class developing out of this for the next family get together. I was on the hunt for the Michael's $1 stamp bargains. I still need October and December, but no luck in Oklahoma City.
Scrapbdazzled :)
There were three classes offered in Stillwater. Josiane and I agreed to take all three and drive up together. We left GiGi home and took her car since GiGi's so expensive and there were only the two of us going. Of all three classes my favorite was the Autumn mini -album, pictures will have to follow since only my cover is completed. We stamped and stamped and stamped in the first two. I am sort of out of my element, not a big stamper. You wouldn't think so to see my closet full of stamps, but hoarding is not the same as stamping. Needless to say, be watching for my photos, I'll post all three as soon as I get them finished.
One last note, we managed to find a Big Lots and score some great bargains on Basic Gray ribbon and Making Memories embellishments. I see a class developing out of this for the next family get together. I was on the hunt for the Michael's $1 stamp bargains. I still need October and December, but no luck in Oklahoma City.
Scrapbdazzled :)
I'll admit it, I've been too busy, too lazy, too forgetful, etc to even down load pictures off my camera's. I totally forgot I had pictures of one my class projects from Debbie's classes in Rockwall on my camera, it's absolutely no excuse. I am embarrassed to say they've been on there for at least two months maybe more.
This is one of my favorite mini-books from this year. It's the reason I took Debbie's classes in the first place, but it also chronicles one of my favorite trips this year. Houston was the best trip in terms of laughter, site seeing, stores, food, the hotels, and even the drive wasn't all bad. There are the inevitable stories about Sonic and Happy Hour. Of course, there's the three stops at Penzy's and last but not least all of the fabulous scrapbook stores in Houston. The book itself is to rave over, there's pockets, tabs, cards that slide out, photos in uniquely formatted layouts, accordian files. For me, it was an opportunity to play with nothing to lose, I can always print out more photos and a chance to be completely inspired to try more of the same.
So here they are tadaaaaa.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
I'm finally a home owner! I been missing in action from posting or doing anything creative for the last three months. But things are starting to settle down and I had time to read blogs and surf the web tonight, so I figured I do a short post also. And few pictures to show progress.
There was a downpour this day, but it came from across the lake and blew everything off the patio and knocked down the flowers hanging at the back of the house. I was hoping it would come from the south, so I could see if the garage flooded. No luck at all. I did learn that plants and furniture will blow across the patio into my sun room windows in a heart beat.
Notice the rain coming directly down over the edge of the gutters, they were totally full of muck, leaves and branches on both sides of the house. Luckily for me, my son got up on a ladder and cleaned them out. Nasty smelling stuff, but we dumped into the new flower beds thinking it will add good fertilizer to the area.
There was a downpour this day, but it came from across the lake and blew everything off the patio and knocked down the flowers hanging at the back of the house. I was hoping it would come from the south, so I could see if the garage flooded. No luck at all. I did learn that plants and furniture will blow across the patio into my sun room windows in a heart beat.
Notice the rain coming directly down over the edge of the gutters, they were totally full of muck, leaves and branches on both sides of the house. Luckily for me, my son got up on a ladder and cleaned them out. Nasty smelling stuff, but we dumped into the new flower beds thinking it will add good fertilizer to the area.
When we reached the house, she escaped into the boxes and I didn't see her for a few days, she was fairly mad at me. Needless to say, she's found happiness hiding and climbing on the boxes and has started snuggling up once again with mom.
So work is far from over, but I've crossed off foundation repair, new front door and storm door, replaced back door and added a storm door, sealed up windows, added a new layer of insulation in the attic, replaced garage door opener, repaired the garage door itself, new circuit breaker box, rewired AC and stove, added lights to the front of the garage, moved switches around so they are more logical, and added a couple of outlets in rooms that were sadly lacking a place to plug things in. Added a couple of ceiling fans, painted three rooms with two more in the works, starting scraping kitchen cabinets and in general spent more money in two months than I have ever done. I shudder to think of the costs. But I have all the receipts, when I think I can stand the shock, I'll go through them.
I still have half a garage full of boxes and the living room is jam packed. But I see progress!
Yes, it's a big step, but I found a "fixer upper" in Wylie.
The first time I drove by it, I was on the way to my Mom & Dad's RV. My first thought, what a dump. Late winter and there was no grass, and the left over debris from the last home owners was about the yard and house. But oh the view from the back yard!!
But spring is a time for renewal and pictures can be deceiving. Here's a peak at the front of the house.
It's really quite a charming little house, it has some very nice features and a bunch of possibility.
I've been price shopping for refrigerators, flooring and the usual. We were hunting through surplus building supply stores for bamboo flooring ( I'm trying to go green) and I found this awesome door in Richardson off of Arapho. Can't you just see this door on the front of the house? There's no way I can afford this now, but it's on the list for a potential upgrade in the distance future. Now if I can just find windows to match.
I still have to wait for closing and that's not scheduled until next month. There's the move out of the apartment. I did find a place online that delivers recycling moving boxes and comes and buys them back when you are done. Is that awesome or what?
The plan is to pack all of the stuff we don't use much and put it into storage, moving the big items on "moving day". I'll go back to the storage in a few weeks after the big moving day and get the rest of our accumlated life's treasures.
What pulled me in? It's the view from the back of the house.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
It was Houston or bust. Our fab shopping adventure. 50,000 hotel points and $210 in gas. AA and Garmin to navigate by with the help of my three great comrades in shopping. We hit all the best stores in Houston and have some great memories to share. I used a Debbie Schuh class to put together my photos and memories. I'm not quite finished yet, but more to share later.
BTW, if you have a chance to stay at a Hotel Indigo, book the room. They are unbelievable and have such a great decor.
My favorite class? Very hard to chose. Shimelle is really, really great with inspiring ideas, Margie's class used such great product and cool concept. And of course, there's my favorite Scrap Celebrity; Donna Downey.
What to post? Well of course, Donna's "Year in the Life" is completed. I used the concept to scrap more pictures from our one and possibly only family vacation at my most likely to visit spot DISNEY. Not a year, but wonderful 10 days!
So very simple, white cardstock, scrap paper for the blocks, stamping, journaling and 9 3x3 pictures, with a little paint on the edges
I didn't take all of the classes because I was scheduled to take one class with Donna in Virginia in February. But oh boy, I took her unscripted class. We learned how to use crackle to make some great paint surfaces and my first try at the Bind-It-All. I am now a fanatic.
I planned poorly and didn't have all of my class supplies again, so I had no paint. I tested a couple of colors but couldn't achieve the color layers I was looking for. I made up extra covers from chipboard I had with me, thinking I would test and test to get what I was looking for in color.
Check out the fabulous look with the silver metallic crackle over top of the pink. I was totally inspired by the SEI line for Valentine's day and loved the glittered paper. So it was my usual buy up what I think I need, some how butterflies became part of my theme. So the hunt was on for butterflies. And finally, Gotta Scrap has the best flowers from Prima, in perfect colors of pink!
And finally, the results.........
Just a hint, you can crackle with Elmer's Glue too. Saves the expense of using the special crackle medium.
Two long Years...... and It Was Worth the Wait
I started with an thread of an idea, something based on Halloween cause its my second favorite holiday. I pulled out my stash of Halloween based scrapbooking stuff thinking this would inspire me to make something Kitschy for this year's holiday.
Technique #1 gesso and paint, Technique #2 was spray paint and stencils. Yahoo, take a look at a page I did before I jumped in and did my assemblage! This is my favorite. So what my new favorite thing to do, spray paint and stencils. It was amazing what got created when you overlay stencils and paint overlaps. So shopping I must go, I can tell you I just sold a bunch of stencils at the last garage sale, I am kicking myself now.
What did I take away from this? First Michelle Ward classes are worth the wait. Second, it was good to get out of my box. Third, I can't wait for next year's classes.
So you want to know how to find Michelle? Three ways:
I found Michelle Ward's web site Green Pepper Press http://www.greenpepperpress.com/ through Yahoo groups and stamping. I bought stamps and longed to take a class with her. You can also find her at her blog http://www.michelleward.typepad.com/
Or if you want to journey to beautiful Wisconsin in May of 2008. She will be teaching classes there again. See the link for Valley Ridge Art Studio click on the link for a preview of the schedule for 2008. Kathy and her husband own Valley Ridge Art Studio in Wisconsin. It's the nicest studio and workspace I have been too. http://www.valleyridgeartstudio.com/schedule.asp
Plus I got to enjoy Wisconsin's main agriculture products: cheese and the cheese producers.
Friday, August 24, 2007
So it's true, I have not done an altered project in months. I shied away from all things that are not scrapbooking. Even dropped off my scarf knitting . (LOL) Who needs 10 scarves in various colors, I don't wear them and the cat has lots of new toys to play with once she found my knitting bag.
But all things being creative, and of course, one of Donna Downey classes I created something I am so pleased about. Canvas. Yep, I did it. Used my new favorite colors, soft Hawaii tropics. Don't ask me what colors, but they go well my newly finished mini book for Hawaii. Don't ask about pictures or when the trip is. I don't have one scheduled or planned.
But I digress. Back to the canvas.
Step 1: Minnesota, four sheets of patterned paper cause I thought it might look good with my paints. Not that I don't have a shelf full of paper at home. Knowing full well I can't put more than two patterned papers on a page. I have pattern paper phobia. Don't know the pysch term for it. But I dread mixing patterns. Uhm, Hello! That's why scrapbook manufacturers make so many shades of cardstock.
Step 2: Get home later than snot from airport, run around trying to pack stuff for next morning. OMG, its 2 something AM. Go to bed. I have the most important stuff, paint, paper and canvas. Oh ya and Gel medium.
Step 3: Get up late, get to class 15 minutes late. Apologize profusely to all ladies glaring at me for holding up class.
Step 4: Directly drizzled MM paint onto canvas, I feel slightly queasy right about now. Donna always inspires you to take risks, no sissy paper plates and dabbing the paint on with a brush.
Step 5: Push that stuff around with my foam brush, oops, maybe foam's not the best. But Michaels had them on sale 20 gazillon for $1. Can't pass up a sale. Darn, to much green and not enough red blotches.
Step 6: More paint on top of canvas. Keep pushing it around, go for the artistic blobs of reddish pink and put some more blue on top the yellow. Rats, too much green all over!
Step 7: The cool altered technique with old newsprint, phone books, old dictionary pages or something double sided with words. Get out that gel medium, spread it around layer on that newsprint, ( thought I was so smart searching for cool designs) reminder to self, give up the planning and go with the flow. Apply not too sticky and not to unsticky masking tape to newsprint. Give it some drying time. You'll be able to tell when its done by pulling up paper by masking tape. It leaves the most awesome layers of paper and reverse print on your canvas. Rub, sand and go over paper and remaining print to soften. Or you can take Donna's class and learn from the master herself!
Step 8: Get out the dreaded pattern paper. Here's where I almost stopped. I created this masterpiece of paint and gelled paper, but problem was my painting didn't match the paper. Donna came to the rescue and pointed out that covering my big patch of yellow softened the whole look. OMG, I am having fun now!
Step 9: Jump up and run out to the store, (Scrapbook Pad in Colleyville is a great store) find cool stuff for my canvas. What do I want to say? What is this about? Well of course its about me! Its been about me all along, and how being creative sets me free. HA, some wings, some chipboard, and some GD expense flowers later, I think I might have a plan. Don't forget the stamping.
Step 10: Pack it all up, because Bernie's rule of thumb never finish creating today, what you can finish creating tomorrow.
Step 11: At home. Struggle with finding photo, what to put on the canvas, of course it's about me, but I can't take a decent picture of me. All photos make me look fat, oops, that's because I am. What's the trick to taking skinny photos? No one shares that! Muddle through photos. I love my camera, I don't know how to work half of the stuff on it and it's not a fancy shmancy one, but it takes a good pic.
Step 12: K, I like the picture, but it must be adjusted, digitally fixed to remove all of the flaws. Never mind all my flaws, I'll just artsy up the photo. So you can't tell which flaws are mine and which are the artsy stuff, I put there on purpose. Did you know you can draw in extra eyelashes? Too cool, except the first time I tried it looked like Spiders were crawling out of my upper eyelids. Don't try this on eyebrows, I gave myself some caterpillers every time I tried. Good enough photo send to printer. I love my little Epson!
Step 13: Leave all pieces laying on canvas for a few days while I move them around adjusting the layout. Remember rule of thumb. Finally, positioned, wait a few more days and stick those things down. Wait a few more days to take picture of art.
Step 14: Write this incredibly long post explaining the wonderful process to tell in three words, Donna inspires me! Put the post and the picture of work on blog.
Scrapbdazzled
Monday, July 02, 2007
Ok, so its obvious! I am hooked on the topic of journaling about vacation. But I saw the neatest idea for capturing my journaling and building a picture scrapbook of where I have been and tracking my whereabouts for one year.
So I was cropping last weekend with friends at the Bucket....... One of the ladies, Tracy is genius at her best.
Last year Tracy made a 5 x 7 album cover and tab pages for each month of the year. She collects postcards from all the places she visits that month while she is traveling for work. On the back of each postcard is her journaling, thoughts about work, what's going on in her life besides work, neat things she sees while she is on location (postcard location). Each postcard is filed away by month between covers and under tab, with a hole punch at the end and a ring to hold it all together. She has an awesome mini album that captures the year. She was making gift albums for all of her staff for this year's upcoming travels.
The neatest thing about this is that you can buy postcards anywhere and could use this idea right here in good old Texas, just dash by the postcard rack in every local store pick up a postcard for the week that says something about your mind, mood, or location. Jot down your journaling notes on the back, give it a punch for assembly and you're finished.
I am cropping this weekend at the Bucket, needless to say my bag is full of supplies to assembly a bunch of these babies, I see gift albums galore and my very own journal of places I travel this year. Be it travels of life opportunities or new locations for work and play. Don't you just love it!
Make your own postcard journals and add a few postscripts for fun!
Scrapbdazzled
So I was cropping last weekend with friends at the Bucket....... One of the ladies, Tracy is genius at her best.
Last year Tracy made a 5 x 7 album cover and tab pages for each month of the year. She collects postcards from all the places she visits that month while she is traveling for work. On the back of each postcard is her journaling, thoughts about work, what's going on in her life besides work, neat things she sees while she is on location (postcard location). Each postcard is filed away by month between covers and under tab, with a hole punch at the end and a ring to hold it all together. She has an awesome mini album that captures the year. She was making gift albums for all of her staff for this year's upcoming travels.
The neatest thing about this is that you can buy postcards anywhere and could use this idea right here in good old Texas, just dash by the postcard rack in every local store pick up a postcard for the week that says something about your mind, mood, or location. Jot down your journaling notes on the back, give it a punch for assembly and you're finished.
I am cropping this weekend at the Bucket, needless to say my bag is full of supplies to assembly a bunch of these babies, I see gift albums galore and my very own journal of places I travel this year. Be it travels of life opportunities or new locations for work and play. Don't you just love it!
Make your own postcard journals and add a few postscripts for fun!
Scrapbdazzled
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Describe yourself.
But don’t use the traditional method; i.e. brown hair, brown eyes, 5’4” Pick a group of nouns such as color, a food, an animal or ……………. and use it to describe yourself.
For instance……
I am like the color green, cheerful and energetic.
If I had to describe myself as a food, I say like a Thanksgiving turkey. I feel all golden, brown and crispy on the outside, lovely moist steamy tender inside with a Cajun stuffing, all spicy at the core.
If I picked an animal to describe myself, I am an ostrich sometimes, I would rather stick my head in the sand than have to confront things that are uncomfortable or ugly.
If I picked an architectural style, I would say I am Greek Revival, classic with a slight bit of flair.
But don’t use the traditional method; i.e. brown hair, brown eyes, 5’4” Pick a group of nouns such as color, a food, an animal or ……………. and use it to describe yourself.
For instance……
I am like the color green, cheerful and energetic.
If I had to describe myself as a food, I say like a Thanksgiving turkey. I feel all golden, brown and crispy on the outside, lovely moist steamy tender inside with a Cajun stuffing, all spicy at the core.
If I picked an animal to describe myself, I am an ostrich sometimes, I would rather stick my head in the sand than have to confront things that are uncomfortable or ugly.
If I picked an architectural style, I would say I am Greek Revival, classic with a slight bit of flair.
There is something daunting about the crisp, first page of a new journal.
I have been journaling for more than 15 years, but I still struggle with moving past that first page. There's a feeling of wanting it to be "just right." Well, relax—there is no right or wrong way to begin a journal, just as there is no right or wrong way to maintain one. Take a deep breath and begin writing. HERE ARE a few ideas to get your pen moving:
1. Blank Page
Skipping the first page may seem like an obvious choice, but I struggled with many journals before the idea occurred to me. No rule says you MUST start with the first page. Give yourself permission to begin randomly anywhere within the pages of your new journal.
2. Greeting
Write a greeting to your journal as a way to open communication and honor the intimate relationship you will be sharing. Welcome your journal into your life, reflect on the place where you are now, and look ahead at the places to which you hope to journey within the sanctuary of its pages.
3. Dedication
Many published books begin with a dedication page. Try this technique to honor someone who has been important in your life or who has brought you inspiration. Explore the ways this person has impacted your life.
4. Acquisition
Begin with the story of how you acquired your journal. Was it a gift? What prompted you to purchase your new journal or notebook? Has a significant event or transition in your life prompted you to begin a journal?
5. Goal Setting
"If you don't know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else," Yogi Berra wisely warned. Outline your short-term and long-term goals. Consider the areas of your life you want to nurture within six months, and those in which you hope to grow within five years. Reviewing your progress and accomplishments is a great way to keep on track. The first page of your journal is a great place to host these goals. Not only will they be easy to locate, but you will be reminded of them each time you open your journal.
6. Table of Contents
Leaving the first couple of pages blank will allow you to make a quick reference table of contents as you fill the pages with entries. Number the pages in your journal so you can more easily reference each topic and page number in your homemade index.
7. Collage
Add a third dimension to the first page of your journal by including some of your favorite items. Photographs, ticket stubs, dried flowers, drawings, comics, horoscope clippings. Add to the collage as you add to your journal.
8. Practical Matters
Record birthdays, anniversaries and other important dates for easy reference on page one. Or consider using this private place to list pin numbers and passwords for personal and computer accounts. Still another practical suggestion is to use these opening pages to create monthly calendars to keep your appointments and priorities organized.
9. Personal Mission
Take a cue from successful businesses, and craft a personal mission statement. This should be a focused statement of purpose in which you identify the most important roles, relationships and other priorities in your life. Who do you want to be? What do you want to do? To whom and to what do you want to give your life? What legacy do you hope to leave? What principles would make sound anchors for your existence?
10. Spirituality
Pen a prayer, verse, meditation, mantra or affirmation. Use this space to examine your progress thus far in your spiritual journey or to define your personal theology. Find a picture from a magazine or postcard that symbolizes your spirituality, and paste it onto the page next to your writing.
11. Lyrics
Write the lyrics to one of your favorite songs. Explore what makes the song so special to you. Try www.lyrics.com for a free directory of thousands of lyrics indexed alphabetically by artist.
12. Current Events
Take some time to capture the events that are shaping history. What is going on in your city, your country, the world? What are your thoughts and opinions about these events?
13. Genealogy
Draw a diagram of your family tree. Reminisce about your family's history, and recall your favorite childhood memories. What funny or sad stories can you remember or have you been told about your relatives?
14. Theme
Choose a theme for your journal, such as Nature, Dreams, Inspiration or Wisdom. Write the theme boldly upon the page and find quotations that relate to this word or phrase. Look up the definition of the word, or write your own. What does the word mean to you? How will it apply to your writing?
15. Letters
Compose a letter to a lost friend or loved one. Write a letter to someone who has inspired you or to someone with whom you have unresolved issues. This therapeutic exercise can often stir some heavy emotions.
16. About You
Paste some snapshots of yourself to the page, and write a synopsis of your vital statistics—height, weight, occupation and current circumstances. You may want to do this again on the last page of your journal to see what (if anything) has changed.
17. Poetry
Grace the first page of your journal with a special poem. I used Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Success" at the beginning of one of my journals to remind me that there are many different measures of being successful. Emerson's words were a comforting reminder when I found myself journaling some of life's disappointments. If you are a natural poet, this is a great place to showcase one of your own favorite poems.
18. Clustering
Draw a circle with the word "journal" in the middle. Write down all of the words that come to mind. Circle each word and draw a connecting line between each circle. Use free-association to build upon each word or short phrase. This exercise will probably generate ideas for writing past the first page of your new journal.
19. Refocusing
Instead of concentrating on the first page, try randomly writing quotations, prompts or drawings at the top of other pages. This technique will give you inspiration down your journaling road.
20. Gratitude
In the words of a French proverb, "Gratitude is the heart's memory." Use your heart's memory to list the people, places and experiences for which you are grateful.
I have been journaling for more than 15 years, but I still struggle with moving past that first page. There's a feeling of wanting it to be "just right." Well, relax—there is no right or wrong way to begin a journal, just as there is no right or wrong way to maintain one. Take a deep breath and begin writing. HERE ARE a few ideas to get your pen moving:
1. Blank Page
Skipping the first page may seem like an obvious choice, but I struggled with many journals before the idea occurred to me. No rule says you MUST start with the first page. Give yourself permission to begin randomly anywhere within the pages of your new journal.
2. Greeting
Write a greeting to your journal as a way to open communication and honor the intimate relationship you will be sharing. Welcome your journal into your life, reflect on the place where you are now, and look ahead at the places to which you hope to journey within the sanctuary of its pages.
3. Dedication
Many published books begin with a dedication page. Try this technique to honor someone who has been important in your life or who has brought you inspiration. Explore the ways this person has impacted your life.
4. Acquisition
Begin with the story of how you acquired your journal. Was it a gift? What prompted you to purchase your new journal or notebook? Has a significant event or transition in your life prompted you to begin a journal?
5. Goal Setting
"If you don't know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else," Yogi Berra wisely warned. Outline your short-term and long-term goals. Consider the areas of your life you want to nurture within six months, and those in which you hope to grow within five years. Reviewing your progress and accomplishments is a great way to keep on track. The first page of your journal is a great place to host these goals. Not only will they be easy to locate, but you will be reminded of them each time you open your journal.
6. Table of Contents
Leaving the first couple of pages blank will allow you to make a quick reference table of contents as you fill the pages with entries. Number the pages in your journal so you can more easily reference each topic and page number in your homemade index.
7. Collage
Add a third dimension to the first page of your journal by including some of your favorite items. Photographs, ticket stubs, dried flowers, drawings, comics, horoscope clippings. Add to the collage as you add to your journal.
8. Practical Matters
Record birthdays, anniversaries and other important dates for easy reference on page one. Or consider using this private place to list pin numbers and passwords for personal and computer accounts. Still another practical suggestion is to use these opening pages to create monthly calendars to keep your appointments and priorities organized.
9. Personal Mission
Take a cue from successful businesses, and craft a personal mission statement. This should be a focused statement of purpose in which you identify the most important roles, relationships and other priorities in your life. Who do you want to be? What do you want to do? To whom and to what do you want to give your life? What legacy do you hope to leave? What principles would make sound anchors for your existence?
10. Spirituality
Pen a prayer, verse, meditation, mantra or affirmation. Use this space to examine your progress thus far in your spiritual journey or to define your personal theology. Find a picture from a magazine or postcard that symbolizes your spirituality, and paste it onto the page next to your writing.
11. Lyrics
Write the lyrics to one of your favorite songs. Explore what makes the song so special to you. Try www.lyrics.com for a free directory of thousands of lyrics indexed alphabetically by artist.
12. Current Events
Take some time to capture the events that are shaping history. What is going on in your city, your country, the world? What are your thoughts and opinions about these events?
13. Genealogy
Draw a diagram of your family tree. Reminisce about your family's history, and recall your favorite childhood memories. What funny or sad stories can you remember or have you been told about your relatives?
14. Theme
Choose a theme for your journal, such as Nature, Dreams, Inspiration or Wisdom. Write the theme boldly upon the page and find quotations that relate to this word or phrase. Look up the definition of the word, or write your own. What does the word mean to you? How will it apply to your writing?
15. Letters
Compose a letter to a lost friend or loved one. Write a letter to someone who has inspired you or to someone with whom you have unresolved issues. This therapeutic exercise can often stir some heavy emotions.
16. About You
Paste some snapshots of yourself to the page, and write a synopsis of your vital statistics—height, weight, occupation and current circumstances. You may want to do this again on the last page of your journal to see what (if anything) has changed.
17. Poetry
Grace the first page of your journal with a special poem. I used Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Success" at the beginning of one of my journals to remind me that there are many different measures of being successful. Emerson's words were a comforting reminder when I found myself journaling some of life's disappointments. If you are a natural poet, this is a great place to showcase one of your own favorite poems.
18. Clustering
Draw a circle with the word "journal" in the middle. Write down all of the words that come to mind. Circle each word and draw a connecting line between each circle. Use free-association to build upon each word or short phrase. This exercise will probably generate ideas for writing past the first page of your new journal.
19. Refocusing
Instead of concentrating on the first page, try randomly writing quotations, prompts or drawings at the top of other pages. This technique will give you inspiration down your journaling road.
20. Gratitude
In the words of a French proverb, "Gratitude is the heart's memory." Use your heart's memory to list the people, places and experiences for which you are grateful.
I am posting a challenge off our cycle of one per month, because I had something neat happen the other day and I plan on doing a scrapbook page about it.
Your challenge is to talk about a tangible lost of goods, what have you lost, how it made you feel, when did it happen, why was it important and who takes part of the loss responsibility.
How often do we lose things?
I’ve lost my keys, misplaced multiple pairs of glasses. Yes, I’ll admit, I have found my glasses on my head and now I always check there first.
I have sent things in the mail of been sent things only to have them disappear in the mail. Once or twice, things have mysteriously ended up in my mailbox weeks or months later.
I’ve lost my company badge, I was positive it was in my purse, only to get back from a trip to find it gone.
I’ve “lost” stuff I was going to use in a scrapbook project and had to buy another.
I’ve lost CD’s/DVD’s don’t ask how that happens, but when I open the case it’s empty. They haven’t popped up yet.
Things tend to disappear from my house, car, purse and etc. I find it terribly annoying. I know that with any luck I’ll find the things in the house that have disappeared, if I am lucky I find the scrapbook stuff tucked away in the wrong place, the same with the CD’s and DVD’s.
The mail is another story. Since it is completely out of my control, no matter how much insurance I put on the package, even if I ask for signature confirmation there is no guarantee it will make it to its destination. Is it the mail swallowing my package, it’s possible, but there’s no way to know?
I’ve been in several circle journal groups. I have one book back completed and it’s a great treasure to me from a local group in Texas. I have one back partially completed, where the instructions to the group got messed up, but I have the book. Two have disappeared, I thought permanently gone. But imagine my delight (partial delight cause I don’t have my book back yet) one book has popped up one year later in New Zealand. The CJ group was shutdown due to people not sending books on, so I figured I had lost both books, even though I have PO confirmation delivery of one book. I was positive the other book was definitely gone, because I couldn’t track in beyond last April 2006.
Cleaning up emails is my least favorite task, but imagine my pleasure at finding a second email address for the lady in New Zealand in my old files. The first address was going undeliverable, so I lost hope of reaching her. I sent an email to the address I just found and happily got an email back from her. She only now received the book, one year later. Does it mean that I may actually see my book again? It’s possible, I have hope again. I’ll let you know what happens. Can I blame the mail for the book going missing for more than a year, I don’t know, but I am certainly hoping it doesn’t take one year to get it back!
Hoping you find things lost,
Your challenge is to talk about a tangible lost of goods, what have you lost, how it made you feel, when did it happen, why was it important and who takes part of the loss responsibility.
How often do we lose things?
I’ve lost my keys, misplaced multiple pairs of glasses. Yes, I’ll admit, I have found my glasses on my head and now I always check there first.
I have sent things in the mail of been sent things only to have them disappear in the mail. Once or twice, things have mysteriously ended up in my mailbox weeks or months later.
I’ve lost my company badge, I was positive it was in my purse, only to get back from a trip to find it gone.
I’ve “lost” stuff I was going to use in a scrapbook project and had to buy another.
I’ve lost CD’s/DVD’s don’t ask how that happens, but when I open the case it’s empty. They haven’t popped up yet.
Things tend to disappear from my house, car, purse and etc. I find it terribly annoying. I know that with any luck I’ll find the things in the house that have disappeared, if I am lucky I find the scrapbook stuff tucked away in the wrong place, the same with the CD’s and DVD’s.
The mail is another story. Since it is completely out of my control, no matter how much insurance I put on the package, even if I ask for signature confirmation there is no guarantee it will make it to its destination. Is it the mail swallowing my package, it’s possible, but there’s no way to know?
I’ve been in several circle journal groups. I have one book back completed and it’s a great treasure to me from a local group in Texas. I have one back partially completed, where the instructions to the group got messed up, but I have the book. Two have disappeared, I thought permanently gone. But imagine my delight (partial delight cause I don’t have my book back yet) one book has popped up one year later in New Zealand. The CJ group was shutdown due to people not sending books on, so I figured I had lost both books, even though I have PO confirmation delivery of one book. I was positive the other book was definitely gone, because I couldn’t track in beyond last April 2006.
Cleaning up emails is my least favorite task, but imagine my pleasure at finding a second email address for the lady in New Zealand in my old files. The first address was going undeliverable, so I lost hope of reaching her. I sent an email to the address I just found and happily got an email back from her. She only now received the book, one year later. Does it mean that I may actually see my book again? It’s possible, I have hope again. I’ll let you know what happens. Can I blame the mail for the book going missing for more than a year, I don’t know, but I am certainly hoping it doesn’t take one year to get it back!
Hoping you find things lost,
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
So the vacation is over……… It’s one of my great sorrows that I don’t write enough about a trip while I am on the trip. Usually I am too busy or “tired” to journal while we are on the vacation. I missed any journaling for the one and only major family vacation in December during the trip, but I still remember most of the important stuff. I was still buzzing with happiness and too tired when I got back. Plus there was a billion things to unpack, laundry to do and I had to go back to work in the next day. The last thing on my mind is jotting down all of the things about my vacation.
Only once have I written while I was on a trip. I still have the banged up spiral note book, but I put all of it on the computer when I got home. I was in my computer journaling phase and not one jot of my handwriting made it into a scrapbook. (which is a whole other subject) I am over that now, it’s easier to scrawl something in the book right away and I finally got over my messy handwriting.
But I have been wondering how to improve my journaling about vacations. I am excited about the idea of day or weekend trips, cause I have this aching desire to see as much of the world as I can even if it’s only for a weekend away. So I did some surfing on the web and found a couple of good sites to help me improve my journaling whether it’s a short or long vacation and thought I would share them with you.
I particularly like this site because she talked about day and weekend trips. She also has great tips about keeping your tools close at hand while traveling.
http://www.writingthejourney.com/exercises/traveljournal.htm
This one is more about how to scrapbook, but there is a short section on journaling. She makes me feel guilty because she does all her journaling before cutting one piece of paper. I am all about diving in and filling in the blanks with journaling later.
http://www.scrapbooking101.net/articles/april2005makingavacationminialbum.html
Amazon sells a journal to help you plan and jot down things that happen while you are on your trip. But buying this would mean the height of being organized to journal for me, I probably won’t do this, I feel just as comfortable with leftover old spiral notebooks that Andrew didn’t finish out in school. They are torn and battered, I can use them and not feel guilty if I shove them in the glove box of the car, drop them in the mud or the cat sits on them. I can scribble and doodle in them also. I would feel obligated to stick to writing if I “bought” a journal for vacation.
An idea from one site said think about journaling your vacation as your second vacation, because you get to relive all of the moments of the vacation. What a lovely way to think of it, instead of seeing it as a chore to complete your scrapbook.
The Challenge
So I am setting out a challenge for all of you, the next trip you go on, add that special trip journal from Amazon in your purse, or grab that grocery list pad or the beat up spiral note book. Jot down your thoughts even if it’s only a few words or thoughts or a quote that sums up the day. Make a sketch or doodle on your pages… Keep everyone involved whether they write in the journal or you capture their thoughts on your pages.
Summer is just starting, here’s your opportunity to pack your journal and write in it while on your trip.
Only once have I written while I was on a trip. I still have the banged up spiral note book, but I put all of it on the computer when I got home. I was in my computer journaling phase and not one jot of my handwriting made it into a scrapbook. (which is a whole other subject) I am over that now, it’s easier to scrawl something in the book right away and I finally got over my messy handwriting.
But I have been wondering how to improve my journaling about vacations. I am excited about the idea of day or weekend trips, cause I have this aching desire to see as much of the world as I can even if it’s only for a weekend away. So I did some surfing on the web and found a couple of good sites to help me improve my journaling whether it’s a short or long vacation and thought I would share them with you.
I particularly like this site because she talked about day and weekend trips. She also has great tips about keeping your tools close at hand while traveling.
http://www.writingthejourney.com/exercises/traveljournal.htm
This one is more about how to scrapbook, but there is a short section on journaling. She makes me feel guilty because she does all her journaling before cutting one piece of paper. I am all about diving in and filling in the blanks with journaling later.
http://www.scrapbooking101.net/articles/april2005makingavacationminialbum.html
Amazon sells a journal to help you plan and jot down things that happen while you are on your trip. But buying this would mean the height of being organized to journal for me, I probably won’t do this, I feel just as comfortable with leftover old spiral notebooks that Andrew didn’t finish out in school. They are torn and battered, I can use them and not feel guilty if I shove them in the glove box of the car, drop them in the mud or the cat sits on them. I can scribble and doodle in them also. I would feel obligated to stick to writing if I “bought” a journal for vacation.
An idea from one site said think about journaling your vacation as your second vacation, because you get to relive all of the moments of the vacation. What a lovely way to think of it, instead of seeing it as a chore to complete your scrapbook.
The Challenge
So I am setting out a challenge for all of you, the next trip you go on, add that special trip journal from Amazon in your purse, or grab that grocery list pad or the beat up spiral note book. Jot down your thoughts even if it’s only a few words or thoughts or a quote that sums up the day. Make a sketch or doodle on your pages… Keep everyone involved whether they write in the journal or you capture their thoughts on your pages.
Summer is just starting, here’s your opportunity to pack your journal and write in it while on your trip.
Friday, June 01, 2007
So it's almost been one year, I love my new job, oops, not really new anymore. It great, something new to work on all the time, still lots to learn. And I get to travel. Everyone seems to think that is the down side to my job, but they must be kidding cause thats a big @$$ perk.
Lots of changes happened in the last 11 months.
I became an empty nester, strange feeling, not to have "son" running in and out, friends all over the house. I see him regularly, and we have reached a new stage in the mother son relationship. I enjoy this as much as all that came before. Being a empty nester mom is the best, he isn't always around, just enough to have a good time together and then he is gone.
After 11 years I bought a new old car. I own a gas guzzler. GASP! GG is will always be my favorite car, she is everything a 40 something could want in a car, seats galor, electronic everything, cup holders I would have killed for 8 years ago. Cargo space out the you know what. I LOVE my car.
Lots of changes happened in the last 11 months.
I became an empty nester, strange feeling, not to have "son" running in and out, friends all over the house. I see him regularly, and we have reached a new stage in the mother son relationship. I enjoy this as much as all that came before. Being a empty nester mom is the best, he isn't always around, just enough to have a good time together and then he is gone.
Finishing my MBA finally. I made up my mind that if I stayed at my current company, I was going to do everything I could to get this done. I have three semesters left, YIPPIIIEEEE. I can't believe it and can promise myself no more school. Although I have already started thinking about what I can do when I retire. There will be a nursing shortage, hmmm, that wouldn't be that much more time in school. Plus good retirement, I can work part time or work and travel. Wouldn't that be great. It's either that or farming.......
I transformed my empty bedroom into my art, craft, scrapbooking, making a mess room. I love this room. I have been buying bits and pieces for a long time, thinking about how I wanted to decorate the room. This would be the first room, where I can afford to do whatever I want. So I am going with a neutral, pink, black and cream scheme, with a Paris "fashion" theme. Why Paris or fashion, I suppose shoes started it. There was a lot of neat stuff with shoes on it in those colors and I do love shoes. Then of course there was the matching decorating stuff at Hobby Lobby which brought in the rest of the fashion element, which had some Paris stuff on it, and that opened up the whole Effiel tower thing. My mom and dad were here earlier this year and they helped me get things hung up on the walls and sorted out. Took me awhile to find everything, cause I had stored things everywhere, but when I would find something, that would remind me about something else and I would have to go digging to find it. I still don't have everything totally neat and tidy but I am getting closer and I love my room, it is a place where I can be totally happy making stuff.
All in all, I have enjoyed these 11 months more than just about any period of my life. Things are definitely great!
SBD
scrapbdazzled random ideas and musing
scrapbdazzled random ideas and musing
Ask me why am I back again, I had an interesting discussion today with a friend, about why she blogs. For her its a marketing tool. Ok, I understand this, but hello, go read most blogs, personal ramblings and musing that have nothing to do with anything except perhaps an attempt to air your personal diary on the web for all to see. Maybe my next blog will be some of my personal dirty laundry!
Ask me why am I back again, I had an interesting discussion today with a friend, about why she blogs. For her its a marketing tool. Ok, I understand this, but hello, go read most blogs, personal ramblings and musing that have nothing to do with anything except perhaps an attempt to air your personal diary on the web for all to see. Maybe my next blog will be some of my personal dirty laundry!
Blogging?????
Why on earth would anyone want to read about my rambling! Sigh, everyone I know has become enamoured of blogging. Why do we need to share on the internet t and what is important for anyone to want to read all about them?
Gosh, I don't know.......
B.
Gosh, I don't know.......
B.
Gosh, I don't know.......
B.
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