Relax

I finally did it! I put the books down, tossed the laundry behind a door and closed it, left dishes in the sink (yes, I really did!) and decided to take a deep breath, relax with a few friends and craft for an afternoon. I found myself glancing toward the sink from time to time... but held fast to the idea that there were plenty of clean glasses in cupboard so it would be okay!

This project was a hit. All close to my heart products were used. The flower was made from February's Stamp of the Month - Easter Eggs. The right side has a velcro closure and opens to hold a lined notebook inside! (Sorry, I can't figure out how to 'flip' this picture... i'm a blogger newbie!)

The criss card card is one I made using the Emporium paper packet from Close to my Heart and a Rub On ... yes the products speak for themselves! I love the color combinations in the Emporium paper pack!

Friend

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant. I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; Before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.
Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant. I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; Before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.
Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old. I know I am sometimes forgetful.. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten.. And I eventually remember the important things. Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and Compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect. I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, And to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore.

I've even earned the right to be wrong. So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, But while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day(if I feel like it).

* I made the FRIEND card using Close to My Heart products: Paper: X7075B More to Adore; Stamps: Playful Flourishes D1212, Say It In Style D1283 and Celebration Bouquet C1313.; Ink Bublegum and Cocoa; Ribbon Z1301 Designer Chocolate. You can see these products and more at www.samanthaovitt.myCTMH.com

The Girls

Here is a glance a scrapbook page I made as part of an Christmas Calendar album. As you can see by my postings, I am not much of a glitter and glam type of person. This page was made using CTMH paper though I can't remember which one! LOL My sister could probably recognize it - I promise to improve on noting my products! Whenever you find yourself in a bind to find a gift for someone that has everything ... search the heart and give a gift that will leave a lasting impression!

LOVE

Here is a quick page I made at our craft gathering - The Memory Makers-

This year I am determined to make some "me" time. My goal is one scrapbook page, card or alterered project a week. That will most definitely be challenging with four children at home and some tough Psychology classes this semester, hence the need for me time!

The One

A little over two years ago my mother moved from twenty miles away to just a few houses away. At the time, I didn't realize what a true blessing it would be. There is not a day that goes by that I do not talk to her or see her. She has become such a close friend and we share so much. She is such a strong person and I am finally beginning to understand my life and how I came to be the person that I.

The One

How can I thank "the one"

Who gave me life?

"The one" responsible

for my every breath?

For without "the one"

I would not know unconditional love.

I would not know tender hands

Or unselfish hearts.

Without "the one" I would not understand

The pains and joys captured in ones life.

I would not be able to give

Without receiving

"The one" molded me,

leaving enough softness to add shape

"The one" gave me strenth

to take my first step

Yet didn't let go when I chose to run

Rather than walk.

"The one" listened to my dreams

and wiped my tears with each setback

"The one" nurtured me, supported me and loved me.

THANK YOU MOM, FOR BEING "THE ONE"