A LONG AWAITED CREATION

Outlawz - Oozak

2011-10-08T11:52:00.000-05:00

Check it out!

1000 Member Party - Check it out!

2011-10-02T16:04:00.001-05:00

http://outlawzchallenges.ning.com/

New Challenge and New Beginnings

2011-10-02T14:52:00.009-05:00

I know I haven't posted for a while but I am back! So here I go...my first entry in a year. Wow! I can't believe it's been a year but I guess time does fly. Anyway, I digress.

So my first entry will include a challenge with prizes to add to your stamp or crafting collection. I will also be including a new card I created on a separate post today.

http://outlawzchallenges.ning.com/
is where the challenge is located with opportunities to have fun and possibly win prizes. Good luck and Have Fun!

Surprises

2011-03-14T22:36:00.000-05:00

Some people like surprises others do not. I tend to not like surprises. I like structure. I like plans. Surprises can be good or bad or even mixed. Of late, I have had a few surprises, mostly good even though they started as bad or could have led to bad.

What do you do when you receive information that is not complete? Or you receive a surprise (possibility) of life threatening news? Do you begin to worry? Do you start to pray? Do you accept things as they are, dealing with things as they come? Or, do you jump to acceptance without going through all the phases of grief? Now remember, you don't have all the information yet. You just know something is wrong. Your doctor gives you unclear information because it could be so many things and in today's day and age, they cover themselves by disclosing everything just so they don't get sued. Meanwhile, you are praying, confused, angry, accepting, denying and so many other possibilities. No matter how we react, we react in our own way.

Surprises...I can do without, unless of course it's good news.

Hope you receive some good surprises.

Friendship & Love

2011-02-27T19:44:00.002-06:00

The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love.
-- Hubert Humphrey

I have not felt well for some time now and have had a myriad of tests to try and find out what is wrong. As you know, feeling ill is not fun. Feeling ill and seeing serious specialists is less fun. Waiting on tests results can really test your patience and your faith at times. During all this, there are at least two things that can help you through it, hopefully....love and friendship. I am very blessed to have both.

I am very blessed that both my family (including extended) and my husband's family care and love me. I don't think I understood this until now. I mean, I know my family loves me. I know my husband's family cares about me, but love???? Well, people show love in many ways and at different times. They are very kind and generous people but we have never been close. We see each other for holidays, birthdays but rarely for no reason. I'm going to see what I can do about that.

During my scare, my husband's family...each member, reached out to me personally. How are you doing? What have the doctors said? What tests have they run? When will they know more? These were the questions my husband and I found ourselves answering, typical questions. I guess what makes me feel loved during all this is that each one of them took the time to ask about me and listen and extend help in any way.

Over the last 4 weeks, I have missed a lot of days from work for tests or pain. I am new in the department and the last thing I wanted was to have this impede my performance. Each day I called my boss to communicate my status. Each day he said to focus on getter better and work can be re-distributed if need be. And then, I started getting calls and emails from people at work asking how I was doing and if there was anything they could do for me. People who only knew me for 5 months. On one of those calls, I broke down and started crying. I was scared. My co-worker on the other line stayed with me. She listened. She didn't interrupt. She lifted me up and gave me the strength to make it through the rest of the day at home. She did this all while she was at work. That is how much she cared. That is how lucky I am. That is how blessed I am.

I returned to work this last Friday and had more people come up to me and inquire about my health. They were happy to see me but wanted to make sure I didn't over do it and have a relapse.

Even as I am writing this now, I still can't believe how blessed I am to have so much but most importantly love and friendship. I guess I need to count my blessings more often.

A New Happiness

2011-01-03T16:51:00.000-06:00

What is happiness? It could be having a home and a successful career. It could be getting a raise. Or, it could be something small like a child's face. But if you do not have a child (in the normal sense of the word), happiness could be brought to you by Charlie, Lucy, or Snoopy. Not the Charlie Brown characters, although those are fun and can bring giggles, smiles, and happiness too. My newest happiness is a sweet little 16 pound Westie called Molly.

Molly is sweet, playful, well behaved, has so many other wonderful traits but most importantly she makes me happy when I am sick or down or anytime for that matter. How can you not love this face?

From Molly to all other dogs of the world, "Woof, ask your master for a doggie massage and you'll want it everyday." Woof, Woof for now.

Creating Once Again

2010-12-31T23:00:00.003-06:00

I've finally gotten back to my creative arts. I am trying to be more organized for the new year and regularly post. We will see how that goes.

Anyways, I saw another blog where the blogger had shown her 10 favorite cards using a particular brand of stamps. I am not partial to any one stamp manufacturer. I just like them to be deeply etched for a nice crisp look. I also like to try a variety of techniques. You know, keep the creativity alive. Be different. Below are my own ten favorite cards. I hope you enjoy.

I made the card below with black embossing paint and used wood as the surface on which to emboss. I think it is so elegant. This has to be my #1 favorite.

Alcohol Inks on Acetate

Nestabilities, Embossing Plates, Copics

Impressabilities. Copics, and Glitter

Watercolor

Crayon Resist

Dry Embossing

Stamping on Acetate

Distress Ink, Acrylic Paint, Distress Embossing Powder

I hope you enjoyed a little peek into my creative outlet. More creations to come in many different formats.

Keep your creativity alive and Happy New Year!

Halloween Edition

2010-10-31T21:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Well, it's been a Long time since I have posted anything and to my followers, I apologize for going MIA. Life has been exceptionally busy and challenging over the last 11 months but it has brought me many blessings. And, I thank God for each one.

Now on to Halloween and surprises.

Did you know Halloween is celebrated on the last day of the Celtic calendar? It was originally a pagan holiday, honoring the dead. Halloween was referred to as All Hallows Eve and dates back to over 2000 years ago.

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. It ranks right up there with Christmas. I find the mystery of Halloween exciting. I didn't do much trick or treating during my childhood but did enjoy seeing the scary movies and every now and then listening about haunted houses or urban legends.

While you won't believe me, I can attest that I lived in a haunted house in the city at about age 5 or 7. My father and his friend experienced the supernatural too in that house. I won't go into my true story as just thinking about it brings back scary memories. So, here's an urban legend for you ghouls and goblins out there. It is similar to what I experienced except I was all alone very late at night and there was absolutely no explanation for what had happened that night.

I present to you...Stranger at the door.

There was once a young boy and his sister. One day their parents went out to run some late errands they had put off until the last minute. Before they left they told their children not to open the door under any circumstances.

Because they were watching TV, they didn't pay much attention. About an hour after the parents left, the children heard a knock, knock, knock, knock. Knock, knock, knock. The children who were now in their rooms asleep, were awoken at once.

Knock, knock, knock. Knock, knock, knock. Finally the sister got up wondering who it could be. Her brother lay awake in his bed listening. When he heard nothing for a few minutes and his sister did not return, he got a little scared.

He decided to go to his neighbors house, who were very close friends of his. He got out of bed and headed for the front door in the dark. When he got to his neighbors house, he found them awake.

They told him they were relieved he was there, because they had just heard on the news that a murderer had been spotted just a few blocks away not too long ago. In the morning, they discovered the sisters body and a discarded knife on the brothers bed.

So what scary stories do you have to share that you will never forget? Or what urban legends have you created?

Happy Hauntings!

One person at a time....

2009-12-12T18:43:00.006-06:00

At this time of year, you hear so much about giving back but do we just listen or actually do something about it?

I heard a great radio story on CNN today about a principal in Vegas who had a large population of homeless kids in her school. These kids live in the blanket tents they have talked about in the news, they barely have food to eat, or clothes to wear. Some children were getting by eating catsup packets. Catsup packets...do you believe that? The principal made it her job to run a campaign year round to help these families have food, clothes and toys for birthdays or Christmas. One person at a time changing the world. That is all it takes.

Then of course you hear about the number of homeless in this country, the number of children that go to bed hungry... here in the most advanced country in the world, the number of people who can't pay their gas, their water, their mortgages. One person at a time can make a change there. Whether it's donating to a food pantry, dropping off clothes at a shelter, paying a little extra in your gas bill for those whose gas may be shut off. How about donating your time if you can't donate your money? Work with Habitat for Humanity, help at a food pantry, deliver meals through Meals on Wheels, visit an elder home and spend holiday time with a resident, adopt a pet for the holidays if you can't keep him/her (but you'll come around and start loving them so quickly, you can't turn them in after Christmas), volunteer opportunities abound!

I will be donating my time to file tax returns for low income families through the center for economic development. I have gone through my closets once and will go through them again before the holiday season is over. I have coats and shoes to give. I have my donation pile waiting until I get paid to see what little we can do. Making a change one person at a time.

It all makes me stop and think 'How lucky am I Lord...for I have a roof over my head, food on my table, clothes on my back, light and heat in my house, a job, a supportive family'. Thank you Lord.

Not only during Thanksgiving or the Holidays should we be giving thanks but all year round.

Count your Blessings and Give Back.

One person at a time can make a difference!

Copy Kat???

2009-12-06T11:07:00.008-06:00

Ok, so many of you know that I make handmade cards and have so many I should sell some of these. I am thinking about it but not there just yet.

Anyway, anytime a SCS swap comes through, I consider it carefully for a couple of reasons. First, do I need more cards?...Always. Are the participants using high quality paper and excellent stampers (comes with time unless you are a natural (which I am not))? Do I have time???? This is usually a no. Once in a while regardless of time, I fit in a swap or two. Well, this is #2 with 2 more to go.

So, here's is the story. I read the directions to the swap and thought I understood them which in too many cases I think I do but read through the instructions so darn quick that I miss something. Boy did I miss on this one. You see, the swap was very simple. All I had to do was create a card (copy) from the Clean and Simple gallery or something similar to that and make a slight twist on that. Pretty simple, right?

Instead, I go through the process of creating a card from scratch similar to one I saw elsewhere but very detailed. Not Simple but Clean. I spent about 2 hours working on my sample card and got sooo frustrated I stopped, went back to the swap instructions and realized...."you silly fool, you are making the wrong card." "You did not follow instructions at all." Well, at this point with all my craft stuff out, I made the correct swap card. I have attached it here for you.

I have since found out that the other card I made can be used in another swap that is - Cuttlebug related with stamping. Not a loss after all...but wait that means that it would be swap #5. Ok, I think I am getting in over my head. So much fun though. :)

Here is Swap # 2 or is it #3 at this point?

Fuzzy Cozy

2009-12-05T08:11:00.008-06:00

I love my fuzzy slippers. They are so warm and keep my feet just toasty. Sometimes I don't know I have them on since they are so cozy. I am sure you have a pair or two like these.

Well, like I said, sometimes I forget I have them on. DH wanted to take me out for dinner last night since I have been in the house for the past 2 days nursing my flu...not the piggy one. Anyway, you know where this is going, right? I got out of my fleece pjs, put on some socks, long sleeve t-shirt, followed by a warm fleece, jeans, long scarf, warm and cozy fleece hat, wool mittens...now remember I don't want to get sicker. So what's missing? Hummmmm. How about some shoes that are not my fuzzy slippers. I didn't notice until we were about 1/3 of the way to the restaurant but who cares. There are too cute and cozy.

At least I didn't go out in my pjs. I have done that too at Chili's but they just didn't look like pjs.

Anyone else forget to change out of something that should only be worn at home?

How do artists keep their Mojo?

2009-12-03T15:45:00.007-06:00

How do artists keep going when they feel lousy? Well, I cheat...I had to make bday cards and used the punch outs from a Basic Grey kit, EXCEPT...for the last card. I have to do some work. I do not usually 'cheat' but had to get these out. See them attached.

New Traditions

2009-12-01T08:40:00.007-06:00

With Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, and other holidays around the corner, I think we should create new traditions with our families, spouse, or significant others. You may already have some and if so, that's great. But for those of you (including me) who do not have one, take a little time to think about some of the things you want to do during the holiday season or year-round.

My list is rather long but I will try to accomplish these:

See the holiday windows at Marshall Field's (oh yeah, Macy's (blahhhhhh - can you tell I still don't like that takeover?), lunch in the Walnut Room, a Christmas play, holiday lights, craft shows, holiday movie with my nephews and niece, Christmas Around the World in one of our great museums, donating gently used coats, adopting a child for Christmas (gift giving to complete stranger), distributing donations of Christmas gifts from employees at my company to under-priviledge children at their school. I can think of so much more, but for now, I am focused on these.

What is on your list or your tradition (new or old)?

Open your eyes

2009-11-29T13:01:00.012-06:00

I think we all have a blind side.

My dh and I went to the movies this weekend and saw Blind Side. It was Awesome! It was such an inspirational movie I would pay to see it again. In fact, I would like it on DVD when it is released.

For those of you not familiar with the movie, it is about a child 'Big Mike'. His nickname is apprpriate when you see the character. He didn't like being called 'Big Mike'. His real name was Michael. Anyway, he is pretty much homeless and without parents or support. Until...Sandra Bullock's character takes him into her family home and her heart. Not only did she change his life but ....he changed hers and her family's lives.

I can't say enough good things about this film, except it is a must see. I rate it 5 stars.

Take the opportunity to open your eyes and see what is around you. Hopefully we can all find ways to make a difference in other people's lives. Just some food for thought..

Waterfall Cards

2009-11-28T18:00:00.004-06:00

For Christmas Swap from SCS.

Waterfall Cards

Flip piece is 2" X 7 1/2". Score at 1 1/2", 2", 2 1/2", and 3".
Cut squares (3) 1 1/2 X 1 1/2" and (3) 2 X 2" and (1) 3 X 1 7/8"
Cut a strip of paper to attach the flip portion to card 4 X 3/4"
Take the 2 X 7 1/2 scored piece and fold on the last score at 3". All scores should be visible on top.
Take the 4 X 3/4 and adhere the short edge of the folded piece 2 X 7 1/2 piece to it, centering on the smaller piece to form a T.
Stamp your images on the 2 x 2 squares and mat on the 2 1/4 X 2 1/4 squares
Stamp the verse on the 1 1/2 X 1 1/2 squares with the end line being stamped on the 1 7/8 X 3 piece
Fold the 7 1/2 X 2 piece on the scored lines. Take the matted squares and adhere in order on the 1/2" scored sections
Adhere verses to the back of the matted squares
Take the T piece and center it on the background cardstock and attach each side with mini brads, eyelets, or strong tape. Mat background on to cardstock and to open card pull the flap and card will open in a flowing motion.

Blessings

2009-11-28T06:53:00.012-06:00

Although we get frazzled at times around the holidays, it is a special time to count your blessings and be thankful for what you have.

My blessings this year include: My darling husband for without him, I wouldn't know where I would be, my great friends who support me and provide me with good advice in addition to loving me the way I am, for a supportive family who puts up with my many moods, for my brother who Always says I Love you before he gets off the phone with me, for a fabulous sister in law to be and my existing in-laws, for having a great job, for my niece and nephews who always put a smile on my face, for having a home and food, for having great doctors and I am sure many more things.

Even though Thanksgiving Day has past, during this holiday season and through out your lifetime, count your blessings and it will be amazing how many you come up with. Something I need to do more often.

You are more blessed than you think.

Old Friends

2009-11-20T07:16:00.004-06:00

Isn't it great when you get to spend time with friends that you haven't seen in a while? You may talk once in a while or even everyday, but it's just not the same as seeing them in person, giving them a hug, and enjoying a wonderful conversation with them. My dh and I were blessed with this opportunity last night and had a very nice evening...catching up, hearing their stories, sharing personal and spiritual thoughts, and enjoying a fabulous dinner.

Thank you Andy and Anne for your friendship and love. We love you back.

"True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in their worth and choice."
- Samuel Johnston, (1709 - 1784)

Christmas Cards Begin - CC2009.01

2009-11-18T20:47:00.010-06:00

So, with Christmas around the corner, this crafter is way behind. With my surgeries and workload, this year I decided to only send out a few handmade cards as opposed to my typical 150. Yep, that's right 150 handmade cards and they aren't the same any year nor do I stick with one theme, color, stamp, etc.

With that, the unveiling of the first Christmas Card creation of 2009.

For instructions, see the address below which will guide you to my SCS gallery. http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1545451?

Kindness of Strangers

2009-11-17T06:35:00.006-06:00

So, this is similar to my last post in that it relates to Random Acts of Kindness.

For you crafters out there, you are aware that Michael's gives you coupons at the register when you purchase something from their stores. Usually coupons are 40% off . Well, my friend went to one yesterday looking for craft stuff and bumped into someone, a total stranger. They started talking and out of the blue the stranger asked her if she would like a 40% of coupon. My friend was a little uncomfortable taking away someone else's coupons but the woman insisted as she had about 6 and was offering as many as my friend would like. She ended up taking one and saving some money off her purchase.

Random Acts of Kindness as little as they may seem, can make a difference. It doesn't have to be money related. Just doing something randomly for a total stranger can bring some sunshine.

Try spreading some random acts of kindness. It feels good.

Too much Mojo

2009-11-14T16:36:00.011-06:00

Ok, so weeks ago I had no MOJO...no creative juices flowing. You know what I am talking about. If you lost your MOJO, here's a good link attached to read and give you tips on getting it back. I did these things without reading this article and now I have too much MOJO (don't ask me how that is possible or tell me it is not possible, 'cause it is). The problem now is not enough time.

My new commitment....oh no...here it comes...post every other day and make a card at least 2xs a week or scrapbook page. Yep, I said it and it's in writing so now you can hold me accountable. No more going 'MIA' for weeks. Shape up or ship out.

So, I have all theses cards made that I have to upload but thought boy, I also have to upload my scrapbooking pages. So much to do....so little time.

Do you ever have too much mojo???

Artist with Big Heart

2009-11-14T01:36:00.008-06:00

Do you ever stop and think how blessed you are..in ways that you don't even know? Through the kindness of one stranger, your day can change in an instant.

This adorable card I received from a fellow SCS (splitcoaststamper) who found out from a friend of mine (unbeknown st to me), that I was needing surgery and feeling kinda mopey. I am recovering from that surgery and am having another in January.

Anyways, a complete stranger took it upon herself to send me a thinking of you card to cheer me up on a day I really needed it.

Thanks Nancy for the request.

Thank you Peggy for sending the great card. I can't find you on SC but hope you find me so you get your well deserved 'Thanks'. I love it.

This is why SCS is so great. Artists with big hearts.

Whatever

2009-10-20T17:30:00.001-05:00

Have you noticed that the English language has slowly been deteriorating? We have had slang for a while. We are using letters for words...BF. Or is it BFF?. Obviously I am not with it or cool or is it some other word that is in style now. We say words or phrases that really don't add much, just to start or end a sentence. Well, I thought it was interesting that ABC News Nightline had a feature on the words and phrases that annoy Americans the most. Here is what they found.

A recent poll by Marist College ranked the most annoying expressions to Americans.

The fifth most annoying is "At the end of the day."

Number four is "Anyway."

In third place, "It is what it is."

In second, "You know."

And the winner of the most annoying expression among Americans: "Whatever."

Personally, I think there are at least two phrases that should be added.

"Do you know what I mean?" and "Needless to say."

I know I am guilty of the "whatever", "anyway", and "it is what it is." The funny part is that the "It is what it is" bothers me the most when other people say it. Then I catch myself saying the same thing. It's contagious. "You know what I mean?" "Anyway, whatever." (Big sigh)

What expressions do you find annoying?

Screwed on Backwards

2009-10-17T13:43:00.007-05:00

I am sure that you all have experienced a day or two or maybe more, where you have felt like your head is screwed on backwards. Well, I have been experiencing a lot of that this last week. Boy I hope it gets better. Maybe it's stress, maybe it's too much on my to do list, maybe it's old age (no I don't think it's that one). You guys know what I mean.

You feel you have everything under control and then you get a reminder email something is due in two days. Oh no! You get a call from a doctor's office where you were supposed to be at 9:00 and it's now 9:15. You thought the appointment was at 10:00. You forget family birthdays. You forget to take your computer to work with you and halfway there you need to turn around. We have all had these types of incidents.

I think as women, maybe men too but I think it's a woman thing, we try and do soooo much, we lose track of things. We don't like to ask for help. We are superwomen! Aren't you? We are wives, mothers, daughters, friends, worker bees, and on, and on, and on. Our to do lists seem endless.

When do we take care of ourselves? When do we have quiet time to read a book, do some gardening, exercise, all without interruptions? It's like that Ellen Degeneris skit where you see a soda pop that doesn't belong where it is, so you go to take it to the kitchen. On the way you pick up something from off the floor and take it to the laundry bin. Then you think, hum, I should reorganize the mud room (these shoes are a mess). Well, since I am reorganizing the mud room, maybe I should throw out what we don't need. You find a book and go to put it in the bookshelf. Three hours later you pass the soda can which is now in a different wrong spot. And you start the cycle all over again.

Ok, so off I go to create a swap, or should I do my RAKS, or maybe I should clean my art room. Hum, I think I will have breakfast first. Gosh, I hope I remember everything I have to do.

More Critters

2009-10-06T15:25:00.008-05:00

For those of you who don't have window wells and don't live in the way west, you may not be able to relate directly to my story but I am sure you will find this funny nonetheless.

Sunday afternoon after grocery shopping, my dh and I had went down into our basement to put things away and retrieve other items. While down there, I heard a noise and out of the corner of my eye, I saw something move. It was not in the basement. Thank GOD! It was in the window well. I should correct that. THEY were in the window well. THEY were critters! :(

Where did they come from? Well, we have a prairie behind us and I guess that's where they were originally. I was staring at this thing trying to figure out what it was. Nope. What THEY were. They weren't possums, raccoons, skunks, squirrels. What were they??? And, how do we get them out, I pondered.

Well, animal control should be able to take care of this, I thought. I made my call to the local pd to get the number and the police officer told me that animal control does not deal with wildlife but only dogs and cats. WHAT? She told me to try Department of Conservation, Department of Wildlife or a Forest Preserve. Lots of help that was.

I called Animal Control anyways and sure enough, their recording said they only dealt with dogs and cats. The recording also said to call back during normal business hours and they can refer you to offices that deal with other animals. Normal business hours?? It was Sunday at 5:30 pm. What was I supposed to do until a government agency opened on Monday, I thought.

As I was trying to come up with ideas and researching answers, my dh visits a neighbor to see what he suggested. He comes back and says to me "The guy said he's been needing some target practice." "NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT. We are not killing animals. Come up with another idea", I responded. DH responds with, "Well, I can put a ladder down there and see if they can climb out." At that point, I was willing to try anything so that was exactly what he did. He scared the little one but it did not move.

At that point, I got online and started doing more research as I heard the critters clawing away at the window downstairs. Gross! Well, I found what I thought was a government agency. I should have known better. What government agency is open on Sundays at 6:45 pm? This company was privately owned and dealt with wildlife removal. Alright, now we are getting somewhere. Well, I didn't know that when I called they were in Indiana. We are in Illinois. It took them a few hours to get to us. They removed 2 dead MUSKRATS (the little one had escaped up the ladder) and we were now critter free after paying $55 per animal dead or alive. What a business. It only took them 5 minutes.

Last month it was frogs. This month was muskrats. Those window wells covers are going on very soon. What a Sunday.

Not Giving Up

2009-10-06T15:19:00.003-05:00

You are probably wondering where I have been for a while. If you haven't, well, you have missed a lot. That will be a different post.

Today's post is about not giving up. You know what I am talking about. We all have different goals that we say we are going to do or try, maybe it's New Year's resolutions or not.

Some of my goals for this year were to walk/run a marathon, lose weight (like so many other millions of Americans), adopt a child, receive my an internal audit certification, and just be thankful and happy. For me that's a lot. Again, lots of these details I will share with you soon.

Today, I want to focus on my marathon. Well, I may not have told you of my car accident back in August, my surgery with pins in my hand, and my physical therapy. Due to all of this, I had to postpone my marathon and training. However, now that my ribs are better, I have started walking on my own. My own training before official training for the season begins. Despite my setback, I am not giving up.

Be determined and reach for those goals!

A Long Awaited Hope Still Waiting

2009-09-10T19:44:00.003-05:00

This is the first you may have heard that my dh and I are going through the adoption process. Yipee! Finally a child. Well, if you have ever gone through the process or know of anyone who has, it is a LONG process (no pun intended). We were set on an international adoption specifically from Colombia, as that is where I am from. Are plans have been changed by fate, destiny, God. We were not accepted into the program for Colombia or any other Latin American country for reasons that I do not want to disclose here. So, we have decided to go the domestic route. Maybe we were meant to save a child here in the states. Maybe we were meant to have a baby and enjoy that experience if only once in our lifetime. Maybe we weren't meant to be parents of a sibling group. Whatever the reason, this is where we are at now. We have options and will begin to explore those options. I still hang onto my dream of being a mommy. And, I am waiting with lots of hope.

Hoping I will hold a little creation (baby or child) of my own someday.

For you moms out there, count your blessings everyday. No matter how frustrated or tired you may get, thank God for your precious babies.

They Miss Me :)

2009-09-09T18:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I received a beautiful card signed by a group of my scrapbooking/card making friends. The awesome part is that they all signed it that they missed me. I have only been part of the group for a short period of time and may have attended 6 crops or so. They don't know me forever but I open up pretty easily. I couldn't believe it. I have gotten emails from them too. It's so nice to be part of a group you really truly feel like you fit in with and each care about each other. You guys know who you are and you are AWESOME! I love you guys. I have to post the card when my camera is working so you should see the pic by end of week. Great job on the card Nanc.

Create some sunshine in someone else's life! Make it a surprise.

Saved 10 Lives

2009-09-06T17:35:00.011-05:00

Yesterday, while simply relaxing and enjoying the beautiful day...all of a sudden there was an emergency we had to take care of. It affected 9 lives. We had to save them. No, they weren't kitties. No, they weren't puppies. No, they weren't children..well...in a way they were. They were babies! They were baby frogs. Ribbett, ribbett, ribbett. Maybe they were toads but nevertheless they were part of the froggy family and they had gotten lost from their home. They somehow found themselves in the bottom of one of our window wells. I think we found the mommy and her babies but no daddy. My husband took a small ladder into the window well. Poor little babies were terrified. They were jumpin' all around and did not want to be disturbed. I grabbed a deep bucket and one by one each baby frog was saved. My husband took them to the prairie behind us and let them loose on the rocks. Boing..one jumped right into the pond. The others were safe now back into their natural habitat. I should have had my camera. It was cute to see each baby frog jump out of the bucket and onto the the rocks. What a beautiful day. We saved 9 creations yesterday. Today, one more was added to the bunch.

Enjoy mother nature's creations.

Life awaits

2009-08-29T18:46:00.006-05:00

Well, another summer has come and gone (almost) and I haven't learned to ride my bike. I know it is never too late but for this summer or fall it is. Why does it feel like every time I want to learn, something happens that prevents me from doing so??? Weird. Such a dream waiting to come true.

With my car accident and the surgeries, I am banned from learning to ride this season. My beautiful bike is in the garage. I see it every day. I see the cyclists in the neighborhood, on the paths....aaaaahhh. How nice it would be.

Well, I'll have to find something else I can learn to do where I won't injure my hand. Maybe, just maybe, I will take swimming lessons this winter, but don't bet money on it. I'm scared of swimming pools.

Don't let my setback discourage you. Learn to do something new, take a class you have been longing to take. Life awaits!

I Love You

2009-08-26T09:10:00.011-05:00

Today, I want to focus on not waiting to demonstrate your feelings, love, encouragement to others, especially family. You never know what may happen and when, so appreciate what you have while you have it.

I think just about everyone at one point or another has had a moment or two where they have been upset with a relative or parent. How long do you hold on to that? It does neither you nor the other person any good. In the long run, the relationship will suffer if you don't let go. Forgiveness is so important, both spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

My father has been in the hospital for about 6 weeks now and it was touch and go for quite some time. He is doing relatively better than he was after his surgery but it has challenged his independence. He basically has to learn everything from scratch....how to dress, undress, bathe, walk. It is amazing what we take for granted. A few weeks ago I didn't know, neither did he or the rest of the family, whether he was going to make it. He was so extremely fragile. He still is, but I see improvement. Everyday, he is getting stronger.

Well, on one of those days when I thought he wasn't going to make it, all my disappointment, frustrations, and anger went away. That was no longer important. My father was important. It didn't matter what mistakes he had made in his life; I loved him just the same and I was going to be by his bedside for anything he needed. I did this day in and day out until I could do it no longer as it was affecting my health.

On my next visit, dad realized that I loved him so much and would be a caregiver with no squeemishity (is that a word? well it is now). We both cried as he told me he loved me and that he was sorry for everything. He now knew how much I loved him and the patience and tolerance I had was never-ending for him.

We often demonstrate our love in our own ways, but sometimes we need to demonstrate it in the way the other person needs to receive it. A verbal I Love You always is nice to hear but sometimes even better to say.

Show some appreciation to a family member today. Start a new tradition. Say I Love You to a family member, parent, spouse everyday and mean it. You won't have regrets later in life.

Creating for Others

2009-08-17T07:49:00.008-05:00

“One knows from daily life that one exists for other people...” Albert Einstein (1879–1955) Swiss

This quote can apply to all of us as we give unto others and make little differences unknowingly. These small acts of kindness create happiness and bring joy into someone else's garden (life). A small token as helping someone out when they are down on their luck makes a difference. No thank you is needed if done out of purity.

By the same token, others around us, even a total stranger can create a smile on our face by just making a kind remark, doing something silly, or creating a better world out of kindness. Think about all the times this quote has applied to you and the times someone existed for you.

This week, let's focus on bringing joy into someone else's garden. Create joy and happiness for someone else without an expectation of a thank you. And, if someone creates a better world for you, let them know it.

Persevering Through Uncertain Times

2009-08-14T10:31:00.007-05:00

“The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found those dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.” Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) Dutch painter

New Blogger

2009-08-12T08:54:00.004-05:00

As you may have read below or for those of you just tuning in, I was in a car accident on Friday. I have lots of bruises and pain. Turns out I also have a broken hand and will be having surgery. I have another doctor appointment today and I am hoping he does not find anything else wrong like chest or rib damage as I am in pain there too.

In any case, I would like to introduce my assistant blogger, my wonderful husband. He'll be helping me with my blog effective Saturday.

Save Lives & Win Prizes

2009-08-12T08:45:00.008-05:00

ht tp://page s.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8

Easier to read donation information for Leukemia Lymphoma Society TNT. You can also check the link on the side of this blog.

Encouragement

2009-08-09T09:45:00.014-05:00

“A word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success.”

Anonymous

I chose this quote today because I felt I needed it. My failure of fear of failure at this time is not completing my marathon or falling too far behind of my team to finish. You see, I was in a car crash yesterday and it was pretty bad. I am ok besides lots of bruises, swelling and pain. It could have been worse. Thank God for seatbelts, airbags, and OnStar.

My coach and my husband will be working with me to catch up with the team but it will be a long road. I just need to keep the faith and keep positive. I waited this long to make this creation (my participation in the race) happen so I must keep my determination.

You can do just about anything if you want it badly enough. Keep the faith!

Something To Think About

2009-08-08T07:57:00.012-05:00

"Each day when I awake I know I have one more day to make a difference in someone's life."

James Mann (b. 1946), writer

Prizes

2009-08-07T08:53:00.008-05:00

Did you know you can win a raffle prize by donation through my website on Team in Training? All proceeds go to the Leukemia, Lymphoma Society. Here are details.

I’m currently raising funds as a member of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Team in Training.

Our Mission: To help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives. Why I Care: I’m fundraising (and training) in honor of my brother in law, Ed Madell.
Why All of Us Should Care: What we don’t know CAN hurt us. Every 4 minutes, a person is diagnosed with a blood cancer. It can happen to you or a loved one at any time.

Why take action now? A small donation now makes a big difference later. How to Donate: You can donate online in less than 5 minutes and it's secure! Simply go to my fundraising page at http://pages.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8 and make your donation. The good news is your donation may be tax deductible (consult with your tax accountant), and you will feel great about giving. All donations go directly to LLS.

Consider sponsoring me for:

$ 1.00 per mile (13.10) or
$ 25.00 or
for $40.00 you can buy a beautiful silver lining necklace from jesslc. This makes a great birthday gift, bridesmaids gift, holiday gift. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to LLS. Please use code http://pages.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8 when purchasing from jesslc. http://jesslc.com/SC03.htm or
if possible $150.00 for a chance to win a $200.00 spa gift certificate

More Good News: For every $25 you donate, your name will automatically be entered in a raffle to win a new and engraved iPod Shuffle with VoiceOver.

Double Your Chances of Winning: Donate $50 and your name will be entered twice in the raffle. Donate $100 and your name will be entered four times! Raffle drawing takes place September 19th. Prizes will vary. Winners will be notified within one week of drawing. Please be sure to include contact info when donating. If you prefer to donate offline, please contact me via e-mail.
When to donate: Now. Donations need to be in by September 30th for recommitment date. Donations need to be in earlier if you are participating in the drawings.
Thanks for your support! I greatly appreciate your generosity. Check out my website (attached) periodically for updates and pictures. http://pages.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8

A LONG AWAITED CREATION: Saving Lives

2009-08-07T07:52:00.004-05:00

http://pages.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8

Saving Lives

2009-08-07T07:44:00.010-05:00

Team in Training website to benefit the Leukemia Lymphoma Society is complete. Here it is http://pages.teamintraining.org/il/StPeteHf09/u00lcs8 Trained early this morning. Team training is tomorrow at 7 am (uggh). Wish me luck!

Correction to Posting for Amazing Success

2009-08-07T07:39:00.003-05:00

www.ksgoins.com. is the correct website address for Karen, my amazing coach and inspiration.

Again, she has so much knowledge and experience in different areas I am sure she can help with and life or career coaching you may need. Visit the website. It is so worth it.

Thanks for the correction on the address Karen.

Amazing Success

2009-08-06T18:46:00.012-05:00

Isn't it awesome when friends can inspire you to become a better person? They bring out the passion (not just the best) in you. They encourage you and have a way to ask yourself the difficult questions like: 'What do you really want to do when you grow up?', 'What is your purpose on this earth?', 'What's holding you back from going for the gusto?' These people are rare.

My friend started off as my life/career coach. Through her motivation and some deep soul searching on my part, I am doing what I want to do. I have gotten involved in volunteering again. This time it is more intense and I have gained so much from it. It's not just TNT with Leukemia Lymphoma Society but others as well. I have also reduced the stress at work and can manage my work and staff better.

Karen, you are AWESOME!

Thanks so much for your encouragement and asking the tough questions. It took me a long time creating this. I am still on the journey and enjoying it.

If anyone out there needs a life coach, career coach, a little help finding your way in life, contact Karen at amazingsuccess5@comcast.net

Let's hear it for inspirational friends and creating success!

Friends

2009-08-03T23:14:00.008-05:00

So Saturday I got to see a friend I made 15-20 years ago. Yeah, I know that's long ago. Well, we didn't keep in touch, we lived in different countries, living different lives but on Saturday our paths crossed while visiting a family member in the hospital. We had a great conversation and realized we had a lot in common with each other even after all the time that had passed. We made a promise to get together and take her family member out with us for a girl's afternoon out before she goes back home. It's so nice when you re-meet an old friend or create a stronger bond with one you haven't seen in forever.

Here's to friendships awaiting out there for you!

Training

2009-08-02T10:39:00.005-05:00

Well, I missed my first training session; however, it was for a very good reason. I can not share it at this time. Let's just say it was a personal family thing.

I am determined to make up my training time. I've got to cross that finish line. Not so much for me but for the hundreds of thousands of Americans living with blood cancers.

So, this endeavor as challenging as it will be, will give me an opportunity to re-create my body and get back into shape, rekindle some friendships and create new ones through my fundraising efforts. And, we are back to my point of creating...following your passion....waiting to do something or waiting for something to create , re-create, what have you. This applies to family too.

Spend some time today creating new friendships or working on those whom you've lost touch with for so long. You will never know what you find.

Good luck!

Are you crazy????

2009-07-29T09:55:00.006-05:00

Are you crazy? That's the comment I received from a few coworkers when I told them I signed up for the Team in Training Marathon to raise funds for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. I said no, just determined. I love doing not for profit work and making a change in the world. I am not doing this to help find a cure for blood cancers but to find a cure and save lives. I did this before, albeit, 10 years ago, when I was younger and in better shape. I can do it again.

I'll keep you posted on my progress with pictures on my TNT website. I am still constructing it but you will receive notice about it here and in Facebook once I am done creating it.

Do something crazy but safe today! Maybe re-create yourself?

Creating Yourself

2009-07-28T20:48:00.004-05:00

I've had a busy day today so I am going to borrow a quote from a very well known creative artist. Tim Holtz. While at a store today, I came across a project sheet. The quote on the sheet I thought was perfect.

"Life is not about finding yourself, it's about creating yourself....Enjoy the journey."

In the coming days, you will hear more about creating myself since I have already found myself. Enjoy your creations and share your creativity.

Creation courtesy of Judy Hayes.

Waiting so LONG to learn

2009-07-27T18:54:00.004-05:00

Since this a new blog, I have a lot to catch you up on.... but I won't overload you at once.

Ok, so I am 40-ish and you won't believe what I decided to learn to do at my age. Many youngsters, of any age, already know how to do this and have no fear. I, on the other hand, developed a fear of this at an early age. Have you guessed yet? My fear (any guesses?) was due to rose bushes. I wasn't scared of rosebushes or their thorns but falling into them on my bike. So, after many years.... yep, you guessed it, I am now learning how to ride a beautiful bike my husband bought for me on my birthday just 5 years ago. I have had 2 lessons so far, both without pedals. I have to say it's odd but the bike repair guy said it's easier to learn balance and brakes without pedals. Hum? So, we are trying it his way. It's quite a workout but I am enjoying it and by end of summer (I hope) I will be riding my bike with pedals.

It's never too late to learn or create your dreams come true. Yeah, I know it's make your dreams come true, but I like "create". It flows better with my blog theme.

Happy creating!

2009-07-27T18:40:00.001-05:00

Creating Isn't Easy

2009-07-26T16:52:00.003-05:00

Whoever said creating was easy was very mistaken. I have been "creating" my website for hours now and know it will change again. I guess that's the fun of it. Make changes, keep creating different looks. It's yours to create out of it what you want, my friends say. I haven't figured that out yet. However, looking out onto the prairie behind our yard makes me wonder.....hum... beautiful day....hum.....time to play. For now, this artist is done.