The End of 2010

This has been quite the year, and quite frankly, I am done with it.

As of late, I have been a very bad blogger. I admit it. Between living in two households while helping Gramie after her accident, working full-time which includes an hour each commute, and trying to keep my own household up, there wasn't much time for art or even a daily posting.

Recently, I lost a co-worker. He was a very sweet spirited person, loving/doting father/husband  and all around nice guy. He "sang" to our callers. Not "sing" in a musical way. "Sing" as in a soothing, sincere tone. It was incomprehensible that I will never hear that voice again. Ski on Kev.

Since his death, as most people do, I reflect. I don't reflect well. Most people reflect on the good, the positive. I reflect on regret. 

Should I have bought the second pair of TOMS?

(well, sure! a child gets a pair, too!)

Should I have gotten a less expensive new car?

(yea, I could tie all my stuff to the roof of any size car)

Should I have stayed away the first time I left this house 16 yrs ago?

(I don't honestly know where I would be)

Why can some people be negative, grumpy, uncaring and a sour-puss and I enable that?

(cause I have a great studio to hide from it)

See? I don't reflect like most people. 

Anyhoot; I found the perfect way to reflect with words:

For those of you who love a great deal….

Holiday Card Class
$20 Nov.13th
Contact me for more info and to register!

and ….THANKS!!!!

November Blog Hop…Mistletoe!

After some extreme issues with blogspot and posting here it is!
Fabulous artwork and of course, I am so not worthy!!!

If you came here from Erica's blog, you're in the right place (and I better if you sneaked around before I updated, you probably wondered, WTH?!!!)

Since I neglected to actually order the beautiful holiday kit from CTMH called Mistletoe, I used some sample swatches to make the card…I do love the papers!
The verse is actually colored in with our Glitter Rub Ons…am kind of out of practice with them but still really cool and no mess with glitter!

Now hop on over to Betsy's blog for some more fabulous artwork!

The 3 Muskateers…40 years later!

40 years ago:
I was a puny freshman in High School and met up with these 2 others.
As the world around us was changing, we endured many things in those few short years that we were inseparable…wars, presidential failures, women's rights coming to the forefront again…how hormones defined us or ruled us.
There was a lot more hair involved…and a lot less weight for a couple of us.
We were not wild rich kids but lived in a beautiful newly developed area only a few blocks apart.
There were no cell phones, or computers only the iconic telephone that we hung on for hours even after just leaving each at the bus stop.

One Day ago:
We reunited.
The reunion involved tears, laughter, great food and I'm pretty sure, a lot of alcohol.
We found out that other than a few years out of the 40, we were within 30 miles of each other and never knew it.
We shared the loss of loved ones, family dynamics, our careers, and tried to solve many current social issues as well.
We all sound EXACTLY the same as we did 40 years ago but would not have recognized each other walking down the street.
There are now 2 new sets of email addresses, cell phone numbers and home addresses in my phone and I will GPS them a couple times a week to know I haven't lost track of them again.

OOOPS…We did it Again!

More fun at Stampin' Memories…

additional details to come but meanwhile imagine, carmelized bacon, cheesie shredded potatoes, home-made scones and jellies, quiche, ham, turkey sausage, fruits and more!

It's That Time Again…!!

We interrupt this blog, job, and household chores to attend our fall Stampin' Memories Scrapbook Getaway!
Click HERE to see some of the fun you probably have missed by not attending:-)
See ya on the down side next week!

Blog Hop for October! (what? OCTOBER already?)

If you've landed here from Erica's Blog, you're on the right track.

I was invited to participate in a "Blog Hop".
I don't who is going to be sorrier; me or the gals who invited me!
I've been in an artistic slump lately…yup, not a creative bone in my body.
But here goes...
The main focus is the beautiful papers or the colors from the new Olivia papers from Close To My Heart.
Love the papers so much I forgot to order them. But I do have the cardstock colors...

I love the new colors: Pear and Sunset. Who'd a thunk that they would have been paired with Barn Red? And aren't those mini-button-braids just the cutest stankin' thing?!
I cheated and added some B/T from another set as the background. So sue me.
 
Now hop on over to Mary's Blog 






Have a fun time!

Dads Are Heros Without Capes

As I was thinking of how Mom is going to have to adapt to life with (hopefully) a temporary disability, I remembered how I felt when I watched a long-time friend's daughter get walked down the aisle by her father who suffers from MS.

Walking her down the aisle was always Billy's Plan A…right up to the night before the wedding, Plan B was looking better. We all giggled thinking well, the Bride would look oh-so-cute on the back of his scooter. Or hey, even matching scooters! But Billy wasn't even thinking of Plan B. HIS Plan, Plan A was gonna happen.

I had arrived a tad late for my taste, but LUCKILY was put right at the back of the church.
I will never be so glad that I was at the back of the church again!

I saw him "scoot" into the foyer of the church and my heart swelled. No matter how it happened, he was still going to take his daughter down that aisle.
And then he….
he stood up.

Well I choked up right about there. I didn't think this could get any better.
And then….
She walked to him and supported him back to the white linen carpet and said,

"I gotcha Dad"
Well I just bawled right out loud. Along with 450 others. I think if we weren't all wiping our noses, we might have applauded.
And dang if he didn't…

walk her all the way down that aisle!
Now most people wouldn't bother with a rear-end shot like this…but to me it was a monumental shot. Then 50 people pushed me out the way to get the same shot.
It was a mass ceremony. 1.5 hours. I was a wreck.
And then…damn!

if he didn't walk HIS bride back down the aisle.
I'm tellin ya I was toast by the end of this wedding!
Oh but wait…that can't be the end of the story.

You see, when Helen and Billy got married, I was one of their 7 bridesmaids. And when I got married Helen was pregnant with this darling bride and her twin sister and was my Matron of Honor.
The other twin will be married in February.
THIS Father/Daughter dance brought the day to a whole new level of awwwwwwww…..

Billy's Hero Cape flew in the wind of all of our tears that day.

The Big "Bang" Theory

"Bang" as in car accident.
"Bang" as in the air bags that do great damage while probably saving one's life.
"Bang" as in I would rather phone in the injuries than be classified something other than a trauma patient. Wouldn't that be more efficient?
"Bang" as in injuries sustained by a more mature person are more serious and life-altering.
"Bang" above said injuries are also going to be life-altering for me, too.
She's healing on the outside…the inside might just take a tad longer.

Here Chick, Chick!

Yes, today was the 5th Annual Chicken Festival and as usual, Gramie was Chief Chick!
My oldest niece came up from the Bay Area to witness the event.
She will never be the same.

and my poor daughter napped curled up in a ball sucking her thumb all the way home.

Things I Learned from Other Blogs...

I am following valuable advice here.
But to see the valuable advice you will have to go elsewhere.
And if you are a blogger you will not want to miss it.

PW

PS
I love ya
The End

New Idea Book & Products Autumn/Winter

ok, so I'm cheating here, but it's still an important message, k?
Our new CTMH Idea Book has arrived!
Here's a peak at the new Scrapbook Kits available now!

Love them on and all!
View these and other new products at my website

Summer 2010

Things have been...well, let's just say there are lots of reasons why I've been a bad blogger.
Just this week, we've had 2 family losses on my husband's side.
One older person, one younger person.

Instead of dwelling on those losses here and since it's been a while since I've posted anything at all, will save those details later when I can see better.

Meanwhile, back in the garden...we are abounded with cantelopes, watermelons, tomatoes, peppers, zuchinni, really huge garlic, shallots, red/white onions, and any herb we'll ever need. (remember that when I say "we", it's not that I took a hand or shovel to the dirt, but documenting with pictures is an important part, right?)

I'll leave you with a picture from yesterday

It's a TRIPLE Play!

and you can get your hands on this darling kit to celebrate National Stamping Month!

visit my website for all the great details by clicking here

Who Doesn't LOVE, LOVE LOVE a SUPER SALE?!!

WHO? Just tell me WHO doesn't love a great sale?
WHO? Is a Close To My Heart paper junkie that will sweat bullets over a great sale?
If that's you...(who me you say?) Yea YOU!
Amazing deals on select MyStickease Assortments ($2), Level 1 Scrapbook Kits ($4), Level 2 Scrapbook Kits ($6) are yours for 8 days only (or while supplies last, whichever comes first).
Get it? 2, 4, 6, 8 IS GREAT!
Beginning August, 4th at 9am MST, for 8 short days first come, first gotta have 'em until supplies are exhausted...
Use THIS to make your wish list, log onto my website by clicking HERE
Grab your favorite beverage, patience, and payment card and SHOP TIL YA DROP!

It's Summertime so that means....the Annual Pear Faire!

It's our 38th Annual as a matter of fact!

Check out how fun this event is every year here.

Bring your shades and be cool at the Pear Faire, Courtland CA.

Just a Quick Share from DC

I'm still recovering from my trek to DC....
But wanted to let everyone know I made it back alright, then proceeded to throw out my back! Do I go back on vacation to cure that?

I got to take an awesome night tour of the city....but not much during the day.
One of my consultant friends from KY, Betsy took this awesome photo and I thought I would fill up some space until I could post some updates.

One other teaser...our new Fall Idea Book will knock your socks off!
Nothing but good stuff coming from Close To My Heart people!

It's Time!

I may not have a chance to pop in to say "bye-for-now" before I leave for Washington, DC., so this is it!
This is the Gaylord Property and Convention Centers...they are awesome! Truly a city within.

If this location is anything like Texas and Florida, it's sure to be an adventure!
And if the heat we've been having here in Sacramento (high 90's - low 100's) isn't enough, the Eastern seabord AND of course, DC are have their own heat waves.

I'll stick to night tours and the pool during our off time from Convention!

Jumpin for Joy...and see ya yater!

Every 10-13 years, I've had to bite the bullet and buy a new car....
this time it wasn't easy, but I percevered! (sic)
Take a gander and picture it in my driveway, locked up tight while I'm in DC next week!

15 years...It's a Beautiful Thing....

I love bling..shiny sparkles on a card, sparkly men who are immortal (go Team Edward!) and diamonds of course, too.

15 years ago, I saw this little magazine-like catalog with cute little stamp images and was hooked. I signed with a company called DOTS (Dozens of Terrific Stamps)to be an Independent Consultant. 10 years ago the company changed vision and the name to Close To My Heart.

The rollercoaster ride has been such that I cannot imagine what my life would have been without.
The friends unmeasureable, the business incredible and the products are truly one-of-a-kind.
No matter what has gone on in my life, Close To My Heart has always been there for me. Whether full-time, or part-time, I've always had a place in my heart for this company. They resolute true values for us and I know them to be the number one company in an industry that, in this economy, could be precarious.

As I ready to travel to DC for our Annual Convention, I am also celebrating 15 YEARS as a Consultant.

I am honored to wear this in celebration of my longevity AND to still represent Close To My Heart for many years to come...

It's Almost Time....

For Close To My Heart's Annual Convention in DC !
It's also my 15th year Anniversary with them as well...a rarety or so I've been told.
Not that the pressure is on or anything, but time is running out for creating swap items, room-mate gifts,etc.

Here's a peek into my harried studio!

It's Beginning to look a lot like Convention!

For Convention this year, we were able to buy a journal with 

theme colors and logo, Picture This.

Along with a journal aspect, I'll be using mine as an autograph book.

(the shabby chic is my touch, of course!)

After all..it IS my 15 year Anniversary with Close To My Heart!

Should My Blog Be Titled, "My Shoes of Mind"?

I'm noticing a trend lately!

Love...just LOVE Gadgets! *Edited*

I love gadgets...and am an enabler.
Which means I love people who love gadgets and then enable me to enable others to love them, too.

does that make sense? just "checkin' in on that.


Anyhoot! I love this gal...Stacy Julian.









She's a MAJOR enabler in my life.
A few things that she brought to my life (other than the obvious love of scrapbooking and all that comes with it) are my favorite green shoes.
fabulous sale

And these, which make me very happy, too!

and now of course......

Well, since we're BFF's and all, we both love

What's a girl gonna do?
*snort*
I think I should use this little pup to collect all cool green things that she's enabled  me to bring into my life and scrapbook them!

wedding

JACKPOT! uh...what recession?

Each day at 9am MST, my website will have a special a huge box (did I say really huge).. and by taking advantage of the HIGHLY reduced (yes, prices keep dropping, too!) you could also win big!
Whaddaya waiting for? Check it out, man!

Silly Sassy

My new cousin!

Salute

To all who have served or are serving...my debt of gratitude holds no bounds

Touchy Feel Good parte 2

retail therapy...online no less!
and yes! they feel as comfy as they look. I can't wait to walk ON water to see the footprints I leave behind.

THIS one is a favorite...

of many.
Will share more later!

And now for your listening enjoyment...

Back "in the day" when I had a lot of hair, eyelashes and a size 5 waistline, I was into music. I should clarify that for the most part, the music was whatever the BFG's band was playing for gigs.

One of his band mates and longtime childhood friend went on to pursue music professionally. He has toured with Rod Stewart, Etta James, the Eurythmics, jammed with Bo Didley and the likes.

Even if the Blues don't float your boat...even if the sound of the harmonica doesn't rock your world...no one and I mean no one cannot NOT appreciate the talent of
Jimmy Z

Grab a cup of java, kick back to enjoy and whatever you do, don't try this at home. If you're my age or close, you'll see stars and pass out.

Hey Soul Sisters!

I can't believe it's been 2 weeks since I've blogged! I know you'll forgive since you love me.

*tap*tap* is this thing on? Right ya love me? k...as I was saying....

Anyhoot...lots goin on:

First and foremost Gramie got past another procedure for a tumor in her lung. Same song as last time with a change up. No extended stay in the hospital, but severe nauseousness post surgery. Took her about 22.5 hrs to get over it, then we hit Costco, Walmart...ya know the norm. I was exhausted.

Supported Susan G Komen Race for the Cure by registering as a 10 yr survivor then went scrapping at Stampin Memories. I really can't believe it's been 10 yrs for both.

You'll be happy to know that although we were at the Bradley House for 2 days and nites, I did actually get A (as in ONE) layout done whilst others were slammin' out between 6 and 18! wow.

Looking forward to DC in July for my 15th anniversary with CTMH where they may pull me up on stage and for nothing else but to ask...what has kept you around for so dang long?

(that's another post)

And since you asked, yes, still doing the commute to support My Frame of Mind, which today is the day I order my new glasses...(again, another post forthcoming)

And so let me share with you how I spend my commute...ROL (rockin' out loud)

Hey Soul Sister

Welcome to Nat'l Scrapbook Day, the new Summer Idea Book and Studio J !

So many new things to name that they render me speechless! really.

There's It's a Miracle Kit, the fab new Summer Idea Book from Close to My Heart AND Studio J.

Head on over to my website and check it all out!

Something New..Faster, Simpler, Easier!

Available now through my website only, is the newest, greatest Scrapbooking tool in the industry.
I'm free of papers, free of glues, a gazillion little embellishments...(well...not!) but I could be singing, "I'm free at last!"
Studio J is here...and if you want to work on projects on the go, don't want to worry about lugging totes full of "stuff", or can't live with files and files of digital images, you are gonna love  NEW.FREE.TOOL.

To take a tour and play around, free of course, head over to my website and click on Studio J.

Have fun!

(ps: have been down and out lately, as mom had surgery on Wednesday. and guess what? I did some on-line scrapbooking with Studio J while in the waiting room!)
THAT IS AWESOME! (and Mom's ok, too!)

You're Sweet

Sneak Peek of new products coming soon....

Encina Apaches Alumni

Ever year, my Alumni does a fund-raiser for our beloved Encina High School in Sacramento.
It's the Old guys (aka Alumni) vs the current Varsity team.
In 10 years, we have raised over $400k...all from email pledges.
Friday nite was THE nite:

The alumni lost a heartbreaker on Friday night...

 

After leading by as much as 17 points in the third quarter, and by 13 points with 5:34 left in the fourth quarter, the alumni were unable to handle the relentless full court press of the varsity team. Forcing turnovers, they whittled away at the alumni lead, finally taking the lead for the first time with 1:50 left in the game. The alumni fought back, with Erickson Aquino 95 making 4 straight free throws to tie the game 65-65 with 42 seconds left. But the varsity prevailed, winning 71-65.

 

In spite of the result, this was a fun and exciting game to watch. The alumni had speed and deadly shooting this year, but the youth of the varsity team and their second half press won out.

 

At's ok...we need to "let" the young guys win once in awhile!

This year, despite the economy, we raised an impressive $29K !!!

As usual, an after-game get together happens. This year I met up with a friend I've known since the 8th grade and haven't seen in about 6 years.

We DID celebrate THAT!

Here's some highlights....

This is pre-game at the free BBQ dinner with Steve Palmer, one of the even co-ordinators.

I simply refused to wear an old cheer outfit...no matter how much anyone pledged!

Then we went into the remodeled gym ($30m  and no a/c!)

Smile and wave Martha! This is what we USE to do at games, right?

This is me trying to get the Alumni excited and enthusiastic when the score took a dump on our side...

Yes, yes...I know sitting on the Apache logo is like sacraligious...but them seats are hard on old butts!

We had a great time even though...well you know...we lost! But I hopefully gained a old friend back.

I'm a MAC girl...in a PC World

COME TO MAMA!

Self Portrait

I hate commuting...and I need a haircut.

It's over!

nothing left of Easter 'cept the clean-up!

Faux Stitchery...

Lately (or at all, depending on how you look at it) I haven't had a creative bone in my body...
So I revel in the cleverness of others...this coming from one of my TeamMates, Shelley!

Look closely at the the Sunflower piece.
Uh...that means CLICK on the photo to enlarge.

Do you remember those ridiculous pattern tracing wheels we used in Home Ec class?
Well, they make GREAT impressions on paper without all the mess of tracing paper...sand across the top and VIOLA! Faux Stitchery!
Idn't she great?! And I've never taught her a thing (or two)

(ps: you can buy those little tracing wheels made just for scrapbookers...imagine that!

i Dare You....

As of late, I've been wallowing in my own frustrations of a long commute, nerve wracking job, and just every day life.
I needed a big kick in the ass to say, "see? you don't have it so bad".

Well, I found that big kick in the ass and I have a dare for you....it's a big challenge.
Be forewarned...
You will need tissues...
You will need an hour, or two or a day or week...or come back to it every time you need a big kick in the ass OR
a song in your heart OR
to see/feel that life is full of blessings that come in many different sizes and people celebrate them to the fullest.

I DARE you to read this blog to
Enjoy the Smallest Blessings

I found Nemo!

Had a lovely family gathering today, and our niece, along with her family had a beautiful "sea" tank.
Not only did she have a clown fish named Nemo but of course annemies, aneonemies, anomenies, 
anemones. It was very curious to see how the other fish avoided the anemones, becuase it would kill them. Safely, and securely, Nemo would run to the anemones when another fish got to close to him...
Just LIKE THE MOVIE!

It's Time for FRAME shopping!

It IS all about *MY FRAME OF  MIND*, ya know!