Nurture

As a mom to five children, a college student, a childcare provider, mentor, wife ... I allow little time for replenishing my energy. Every moment is spent meeting the needs of those around me that I have forgotten that I, too, have needs -physical, emotional and spiritual. I realized that if I do not attend to my own needs at some point or other I will fail at meeting the needs of those I most care about and stray from who I am. I took a few hours to attend an afternoon craft gathering at my friend Deanna's house and was blessed to meet an amazing SU demonstrator (visit her at www.wendystamps.com). Listening to her share her 'journey' with us really inspired me to think about my goals. Not only is she extremely talented, it was obvious that she was true to herself! She inspired us to 'think outside the box' and the two pages below were created under her guidance (I added a little of my own touch).



I am going to use this layout when I find the "just right" picture of my 20 yr old son and I. I was reminded of how much I cherished each and every moment of raising him and though he has begun his journey into adulthood I am blessed by his "I love you's" every day!







This was a fun, colorful page that I couldn't just have a flower or two ...





Have a Sunshine Day!!

Wow - Amazing Blog Candy Giveaway!

this tops the charts! Check it out: corrosivecreationsbyjanet.blogspot.com

Blog Candy Give Away ...

Hat off to Sarah's Paper Tray for reaching 2000 hits on her blog. To celebrate she's giving away blog candy you are sure to love! Visit her blog ... and if you know how to add a counter please let me know!

CONGRATULATIONS Sarah!!
http://sarahspapertray.blogspot.com/2009/04/i-reached-2000-hits-and-have-some-blog.html

The family is a haven in a heartless world.

Today was one of those days that I was making myself dizzy going around in cirlces. Sipping a hot cup of coffee with pen and pad next to me, I decided to make a "to do" list! Dig out Spring and Summer clothing, wash windows, vacuum and mop, clean daycare, scrub bathrooms, tackle the mounds of laundry piled up in every corner, begin homework assignments ... the list was endless.

The house was quiet and I could hear the clock ticking in the background. I thought about my friend that had lost his life just eight days. I was once again reminded how precious each and every second of my life is - I needed to stop worrying about what everyone thought if they came into my home and it was not spotless - we had clean clothes, clean dishes and food in the house. I tore the paper from the pad, crumpled it up and tossed it in the garbage. When I heard the giggles coming from upstairs and the footsteps of the kids waking up ... I knew my priorities were right where they needed to be. I grabbed my coffee and raced to the living room and plopped on the piles of "blankets" - the burst of laughter that filled the room filled my heart!

I made these Easy Post It holders with the kids. We sat around the table sharing M&M's, laughter and a memory I will carry in my heart!


~ The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family. ~Thomas Jefferson
I had a request for Chocolate Bar slider cards with a "You Rock" theme. Here are a couple of ideas I came up with. Comments??

** Please consider following my blog!! It would be greatly appreciated! **

WIZARD’S HANGOUT: Cards made with Random Stamped Cardstock

WIZARD’S HANGOUT: Cards made with Random Stamped Cardstock

I Lifted ...

I have been going through a difficult time with the loss of a friend in a tragic accident and have not felt much like sharing. Through mourning and memories, my sisters have been the foundation of my world and I love them dearly. I am facing finals for my college courses, a chaotic week of no school and a full daycare while trying to prepare for my first CTMH party outside of my home. I
have made several cards but seem to find fault with most of them. I looked to my sister for inspiration and voila - a Mother's Day card that I love!


The top card was made by my Amazing sister Marie (Isomcre8tions.blogspot.com) and the bottom card is my take on the technique. She has and always will be an inspiration in my life - because of her I have learned to value who I am. Thank you Marie!

Minute by minute ...

Today was one of those days that I woke up, took a deep breath and decided that it was time to relax. The kids were all out and about with what appeared to be the entire neighborhood in the back yard ... what better time for me to search for a bit of creativity. Since exploring Booth #32's blog, I have become infatuated with the Jr. Size Legal pad holder's. I make them for friends and family (don't peek Marie - this one is for you!) I used all CTMH products (except for the ribbon) Creme Brulee and Sorbe paper and ink, March word puzzle stamp set.


I struggled with the silhouette card (CTMH) and did not feel that the 3x3 square with the scallop and "mother" looked quite right. Feedback is welcome and appreciated.