Redecorating!

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Peach green tea

Hello! I know it's been a bit since I last posted, but hubby and I have been super busy around the house. 

Back when our boys were in college, we turned our dining room into a game room, complete with big comfy couches and a large television so the guys could all do their gaming together. since it's been a while that any of them lived at home, we decided it would be nice to have a dining room again. 

so hubby declared last week, out of the blue, that it was time to go find some antique furniture. I'll never say no to antique shopping! so off we went. we found some gorgeous pieces at fabulous prices, always a good thing!, and have been working on painting walls and moving things around. it's all been a very nice early anniversary present to us. :)

needless to say, that has left NO time for crafting. I do apologize for no posts. I had so many projects planned for this month, but they will have to wait. 

I don't know that I will be back to share again before Easter, so I wish all of you a most blessed holiday!

love to everyone!

Jennifer

Meet the Newest Member of our Family

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Cinnamon French Toast coffee

Hooray, it's the weekend! 

I ended up not feeling too well this week, plagued by nasty migraines and seizures, so crafting was not on the agenda unfortunately. but I wanted to share with all of you about the newest member of our family.

over the past few years we have sadly had to say goodbye to our precious pups, Brutus and Palmer. it's still hard to type this without crying. we are 'those' people whose dogs and cats are huge parts of the family. their loss is devastating. 

so last January David had finally decided that he was ready for a new dog. we had been watching the website of our favorite rescue center when he saw a chocolate lad puppy. so off we went. 

we brought home Watson, a 6 month old chocolate lab/Chesapeake Bay retriever mix. he is so full of personality and enthusiasm for EVERYYHING!

he has quickly grown into a big cuddly bear. like all of our dogs, he absolutely loves going to camp every day to run and play and greet everyone. we are so very blessed to have him in our lives! :)

have a fantastic weekend!

Jennifer

A re-post that I most certainly needed

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Pumpkin Spice coffee

Hello to everyone! I hope you are having a great weekend so far.

I was sad to discover that I lost the entire folder of my craft project phots when my external hard drive became corrupted. that's more than 20 years of photos, just gone. so I've been spending the past few days going through each post on my blog to save what pictures I can. it's been quite eye opening. my style has changed and also circled back around over the years.

the thing that has struck me more than anything is how I used to share my faith. I've gotten away from that for whatever reason. my faith certainly hasn't changed, but how I express it definitely has.

I came across this post from 2013. I have no recollection of the circumstances that prompted me to write, but I was impacted by the reminder that this message holds just as true today, with our political and social climate being less than kind and loving toward 'others'.

I'll share the entire post here, or you can follow the link to the original.

may God speak to your heart in the same way He has spoken to mine, both then and now.

love to all of you!

Jennifer

one day I will stand in front of God and have to answer many questions about how I lived my life. one of these, I'm sure, will be "did you love my people?" how will I be able to look Him in the eyes and say, "well, I chose to love only certain ones, God. some had different opinions than I did, some looked different than I did, some well, they just weren't really that clean or smelled kinda funky, so they weren't all that easy to love. and gosh, God, some just weren't very nice. some were down right mean to me."

and I have a feeling God will shake his head in sadness and reply to me, "and what about those times when you were mean and outspoken and said things in anger you didn't really intend to come out the way they did? or that time back in the 80's (and 90's) when you were just kind of a pain and thought you knew everything, but in fact still had a lot to learn about kindness? how lovable were you then? and didn't someone still wipe your brow and soothe your soul and tell you how beautiful you were?"

and He will remind me of the people who dropped off food at our back door when David didn't have a job or sent cards or texts when I was going through chemo or built a front porch as I went through more treatments for my cancer or the outpouring of cards when Tyler was hit by a car or the multitudes of other blessings that happen each and every day.

He will let me know that no matter what my sin, I was loved always and there were people who let me know.
so by following in HIS footsteps, I have to pass along that same love to others - regardless of their life choices. I am to love others unconditionally. understand that I am not asked to love the sin, but instead to love the sinner, for that is what each and every one of us is. we are all on a journey and can only do this with the help of one another and God's grace.

I am not the judge. I do not sit in judgement upon anyone. I can't. it's not my job. I am only called to love my neighbor. and I am working on it. it's not easy. it's one of the hardest commandments in the Bible. but it's worth it. we have to help each other out, not push each other down. that is what it means to be a follower of Christ, in my opinion.

I'm not here to debate the Bible - just stating my thoughts and opinions. each of us is entitled to our own. I'm weary of the hate and mud slinging from both sides. A & E has a right to suspend whomever they want as far as I am concerned. it's their network, they can do what they want. The Robertsons can say what they want when they are away from the series. they have that right as well. I just don't necessarily agree with them.

Happy Easter!

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Earl Grey Lavender tea

 Hello and Happy Easter!

 my yard was absolutely FILLED

with lovely lavender crocus :)

well as they say, the best laid plans of mice and men.... obviously I have not been crafting or posting. Unfortunately I have discovered that my blog is blocked by some servers for potential malware and viruses. I have searched and searched, but can find no signs of malicious activity anywhere on the blog. Google has been no help whatsoever, no matter how many times I try to reach their IT department, which is difficult all on its own.  I have no idea how many of you can actually reach or view my blog.

I am investigating other blog formats and servers, so will update when I have started something new. I would really hate to lose this entire blog, but feel that having a site where people can feel secure visiting is more important. 

This weekend we are blessed to have all of our sons and their families as well as David's mom, two sisters, and brother in law visiting. Tyler and Danielle had another little girl the first part of this month, so it's definitely a time to celebrate our blessings and beautiful family!

a card from 2016

David and I, (mostly David), have been doing a complete rehaul on our kitchen. We started in January with the hopes of having it complete for our Easter gathering, but nothing with a century home is ever quick or easy. David has had to demolish all of the walls, the ceiling, and floor. it's basically starting over from scratch. He is doing an amazing job with it all! I'm excited because not only will we have an updated kitchen, but after removing numerous layers of various types of flooring, we will finally be able to use the original floors. Our home was built in 1861. He has taken it all back to the original woodwork. We have come to the decision that this will be the home we retire in - our forever home. so we want to get it in as good of condition as we possibly can while we are able. retirement isn't that far off....

an altered project from 2016

anyhow, I haven't forgotten all of my wonderful friends and followers. just have to get these repairs and some health issues out of the way so I can FINALLY get back to crafting. I miss it so much. I miss all of you so much!

may your Easter overflow with blessings from above! you are truly, truly loved!

Jennifer

Merry Christmas!

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Pumpkin Spice chai 

It is almost here! Christmas is coming, bringing joy and many blessings for each and every one of us!

I apologize for my long absence. So much has been going on - times to celebrate as well as times to mourn. Our precious dog Brutus was diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer in April, and died within 6 weeks. We still feel his loss so deeply. 

But in the midst of the sadness, there have been many moments of happiness. I have been able to visit our grand-daughters several times, David and I have taken a few trips, and we will have our entire family together for Christmas for the first time in several years. They are truly my heart's delight! 

Crafting has taken a back seat with all that has been going on. I've worked more this year than in the past several. that will be tapering off in 2024, so a craft room re-do will hopefully bring with it LOTS more crafting time! I have made several journals and have plans for many more. My children are requesting that I make my more detailed cards, so I will see what I can do on that front as well. I confess that I really do miss the creative time. I not only want to get back to it all, but need to get back to it.

so as I close, know that each of you who still pop by every once in a while are a special part of that creative journey. I so appreciate your enthusiasm, kindness, and support. Thank you!

Merry Christmas to each and every one of you! you are loved!

Jennifer

Easter Blessings

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Turmeric tea with ginger and orange

Sending Easter blessings to all of you who celebrate the holiday. He has risen! :) oh, what hope lies in those three words! I am often overwhelmed by the depth of God's love and faithfulness. He never once leaves us. what comfort!

I have several cards to share today. I had to keep them fairly simple because I wanted to mail them through regular first class. 

Main images are found for free at Create with TLC. vintage fussy cut images are from The Graphics Fairy. Papers are from 49 & Market and Asuka Studios. 

Simple embellishments. Organza ribbon is from Really Reasonable Ribbon and little flowers are by Prima. Stamps are from Tim Holtz. inside of each card is decorated similar to the envelopes. 

 

This last card was made for a very special young lady. our youngest son, Ryan, and his wife, Elizabeth, have become foster parents to a 13 year old girl! she moved in this weekend. she is someone they knew from their church youth group. I wanted to send her a little something to say hello. :)

and lastly I ask for your prayers for our daughter-in-law, Lauren. she had a mini stroke several days ago. she is currently resting at home, with more tests to come in the upcoming week. We are so thankful that God kept her safe in the midst of all that happened. She is currently taking baby aspirin to help thin the blood. Our daughter-in-law, Danielle, who is pregnant, is also taking baby aspirin. She was told that mothers who have had covid, which they both have had, are at a higher risk of stroke. so lots of prayers and trusting in God's healing.

May you know how much you are treasured and loved! Happy Easter!

Jennifer

Happy 4th of July and email followers

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Spiced Hazelnut coffee

image by

The Graphics Fairy

Happy 4th of July to all of my friends living in the USA! I hope you have a fun as well as safe celebration surrounded by those dear to your heart. :)

I have been informed of a service to follow blogs via email now that feedburner has deactivated this tool. It is called follow,it. I believe that I have imported all of those email addresses who follow my blog this way. Please let me know if you don't receive notices of upcoming posts. 

I haven't been doing much papercrafting recently, but did make a wonderful ribbon and fabric banner to hang in one of our bedrooms. I will share that with you this week. We are slowly trying to redo all of our sons' bedrooms so that they are a bit more updated when they come to visit. So far we have two completed. Eventually we will tackle the entire house. my next big project is to get my craft room cleaned and organized. ugh. that is going to take a VERY long time. :/ 

so thank you to everyone who continues to follow my little blog and post such lovely comments.  :) I appreciate all of you!

much love to everyone and have a most amazing day!

Jennifer

She's Here! :)

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Spiced Macadamia coffee

image courtesy of The Graphics Fairy

 Our precious grand-daughter arrived last weekend, on the Saturday before Easter. :)  She was born via caesarean section. Both mom and baby are doing well at home. Hubby and I planted a flowering dogwood tree in our backyard to honor this special moment. We hope to go visit them this coming weekend. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement as well as your prayers. Y'all are the best! :)

Happy Easter!

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Earl Grey Lavender tea

Happy Easter to all of you! I hope you have a most blessed day, surrounded by those you love. :)

I apologize for not being around. My health has really been struggling these past few months, seeming to get worse. :( I spend most of my time either in bed or on the couch. The upside is that I am getting a lot of reading done as well as watching some wonderful programs through various streaming services.  of course nothing quite beats the beautiful bird song I hear each day or cuddles with our cat and dog.  those are the best!

our sweet little grand-daughter is to be born within the next few days. to say we are all excited is quite the understatement! :) I did make her a journal, but finished within an hour of leaving to visit Mick and Lauren in St. Louis for their virtual baby shower. hopefully we will be able to visit the entire family in May, so I will try to remember to take pictures of both the baby journal and Mick's garden journal then.

(both vintage images from The Graphics Fairy)

With so much divisiveness and antagonism in our county, no, in our world, please remember that love is the great unifier. We are told by Jesus to love our neighbors, all of our neighbors. Let compassion and kindness prevail in our lives, always. :) 

Project Photos Coming Soon

 Coffee/Tea of the Day - Coconut Caramel Hazelnut coffee

Hello! I hope that everyone is doing well, staying safe and healthy. A new day, a new year, ready for blessings in abundance! New opportunities to spread love and kindness! :)

Thank you to all of you who have so sweetly left comments sent emails or cards. You are much appreciated and loved! :)

I will soon share a few photos of projects I worked on in the past year. yes, I am THAT slow! :D I have started making junk journals and love it! oh my gosh, what took me so long to try one myself? a perfect way to incorporate my shabby/vintage style with re-purposed items and a touch of sass & whimsy. ;) ha!

I made journals for each of our sons and their wives, but didn't get photos of most of them since I was racing to get them in the mail for Christmas. The journal I made for my husband for our anniversary is still a work in progress. he is so understanding! I was able to get his handyman journal finished for a Christmas gift, so at least he has one complete. (I am still adding bits and bobs to it, although I don't think he has noticed yet. grins!)

The biggest shocker to the family is that I am actually sewing in all of these journals! that is the first thing every single one of them noticed. ;)  it is no secret that my old sewing machine and I didn't always see eye to eye, pardon the pun. The repair man even commented that he had never seen a machine that gave someone such difficulties as mine. I was given an older sewing machine from someone who was cleaning house several years ago. Inspired by the many fabulous journal makers on YouTube, I decided it was time to get it out and make a fresh, new start. Lo and behold, I am having so much fun! I go through almost an entire spool of thread with each journal I make. Just goes to show you that we should never stop trying new things or exploring past ones!

My love and prayers to each of you. Stay safe and healthy!

See you soon,

Jennifer

*Update 01/14/21 - I apologise that I have not yet posted photos. I haven't been doing well this past week. Hopefully I can get pictures added over the weekend. Thank you for understanding.

Hello! :)

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Santa's White Christmas coffee (I am in a Christmas kind of mood)

Hello to all of you who have so kindly and faithfully stuck with me and my little blog. I apologize for being away for so long. My health is fading, but I am still hanging in there. :) I have about an hour or two each morning when I can get a few things done, but otherwise I am in bed or lying on the couch. Obviously, as with everyone, the pandemic hit us hard. Two of our sons had the virus, but oh, so thankfully have recovered. Our middle son's wedding was put on hold, and only two weeks before the scheduled date, they received notice to proceed. It was a lovely, although much smaller event than they had originally planned, but such a glorious day! :) Camp received notice that they could open with strict guidelines at the very last minute. David has been scrambling to get everything ready and in place. This is the first week of programmed camps, so we are thankful!

I have been doing a bit of crafting here and there. photos are saved on my computer, and just need editing & watermarks. Then I will begin to post here. I will try for this weekend....

I hope and pray that all of you are safe and healthy. :) please take care of yourselves and loved ones.

Until I see you again, remember that you are so very loved!

Jennifer

Update and trying to get crafty

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Pumpkin Spice Hazelnut coffee (it's my go to comfort flavor!)

Hello and Happy weekend!
I apologize for my absence. still struggling with health issues, but finding joy in the beauty of each day. :) so many blessings to count!!!

when I feel well enough, I am attempting to put together my first journal. it is great fun! I have been coffee staining almost everything in sight, since I always have an abundance of coffee and grounds in my house! ha! ;)

I am still reading every day. that is an essential for me. also watching lots of movies. thank goodness for Netflix and VuDu! :) of course my favorite thing to watch is the wildlife outside my windows. The birds and other little critters are wonderful and can entertain for me hours....

I want to thank those of you who have left comments or sent emails inquiring about my health. you are so kind! I am not always able to respond, but your messages touch my heart.

My prayers are with everyone around the world as we deal with the coronavirus concerns. may calm minds and healing prevail.

much love to all of you and enjoy your weekend! :)
Jennifer

Vintage Happy Thanksgiving Greetings!

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Cinnamon Macadamia Nut coffee

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my friends here in the USA! I hope you are surrounded by family and friends, counting your many blessings. :) I know I am so grateful, every day!

I am sharing the card I made to send to a few very special folks. Our middle son will not be able to be with us this holiday because of living so far away. St. Louis just isn't as close to Ohio as Michigan. ;) Our other sons and their wives will be driving in tomorrow to spend the weekend with us. While we will miss Mick and Lauren, I know it will be a wonderful time with everyone else. I am so excited to see them again!

One of David's sisters and her husband spent a few days with us last week. They live in Texas, so other than weddings, we don't get to see them often. Thankfully there are 2 weddings next year, so we will have several opportunities for visiting and fun times!

so on to my card -
the beautiful vintage images are from The Graphics Fairy. plaid paper is by Bella Blvd., gorgeous brown textured ribbon is from Really Reasonable Ribbon, and flowers are from Wild Orchid Crafts. the leaves were die cut from the Tim Holtz Fall Foliage die set, using cardstocks that were sprayed with an assortment of distress oxide sprays. so many lovely colors irl! the little acorn cap I picked up out at Camp. I love using bits of nature on my project, especially in the fall.

Have a most glorious holiday and weekend!
Jennifer

Challenges:
Crafty Gals Corner - anything fall goes
Creative Moments - anything goes
SSS Wed - anything goes
Words 2 Craft By - thankful
CRAFT - inspired by a book (Cranberry Thanksgiving or Berenstain Bears Give Thanks)
Creative Knockouts - winter/holidays (holiday - Thanksgiving)
Southern Girls - anything goes

Missing You - Honoring the Hundreds of Native American Women who go Missing Every Year & Blog Candy

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Salted Caramel

Today marks the 3rd anniversary of the Women's March. I was privileged to join with over a million of my sisters and brothers in solidarity for so very many important causes in Washington DC at that first march two years ago. I would love to be able to march again this year, but my health prevents me. as of a few days ago, I really wanted to, but it's hard enough for me to get up and down my stairs right now, much less walk a few miles.

Yesterday was the very first march of Indigenous People in DC. oh, how I wanted to be there for that, too. so many things trouble our native people right now - their sacred lands are being destroyed by oil & gas pipelines, their beautiful women disappear at alarming rates, basic health care and housing is lacking, and yet they are some of the most peaceful, kind, loving people I have ever had the honor to meet. I have learned so much from the time I have spent in their presence. to say my life has changed would be an understatement.

so when I attended the very first Women's March, I carried a sign on behalf of our Native People. (I actually have the water vessel from that poster tattooed on my arm now!)  I planned to do the same today. But since I couldn't attend the march, I thought to make a card honoring the women who disappear each year.  it's a very serious problem here in the US and in Canada. a new bill has been put through Congress called "Savanna's Act," which honors a young woman brutally murdered about a year and a half ago. David and I met her family at the Standing Rock healing ceremony just after she was murdered.

I embossed a panel of watercolor paper with the bg stamp from the Dare 2B Artzy set "Feathers." using WOW Perissa powder. the same bg stamp was stamped directly onto the card base and embossed with WOW Primary Goose powder. the feathers were stamped onto both watercolor paper and recycled cs and embossed using the WOW Perissa powder. feathers were then fussy cut and watercolored with various shades of SU! ink. I wanted to give everything the look of ombre, but also feminine and a sunrise over the prairie.

flowers are by Wild Orchid Crafts, pretty little crystals are by Prima, ribbons & trims are from Really Reasonable Ribbon, and ticket & vintage button are from my stash. "Miss You" sentiment was stamped with an alphabet set. tag was cut from the same recycled cs as the feather. a real feather was added to the bundle. (it's a found treasure! no birds were harmed in collecting it!)

I now have the blog candy ready for all of you who follow my little blog. :)

the candy will run through Sunday, January 27. I will announce the winner here on Monday, January 28. this will allow enough time to mail the candy to the winner before Valentine's Day.

*please leave a comment asking to be entered. . this is open to followers from all around the world! :)

some of the items included in the prize:

• House Mouse 'Shower of Love' stamp
• Unity Itty Bitty 'You Melt My Heart' stamp
• Treasured Times 'Baby Doll in the Garden' stamp
• SSS 'Hot Mama' dye ink
• assortment of Really Reasonable Ribbon ribbons
• flower shaped eyelets
• My Mind's Eye chipboard tags
• Crate Paper hearts & lips puff stickers
• Doodlebug Designs tiny hearts stickers
• adhesive mini pearls
• Valentine themed sequin mix
• more little goodies, some not pictured here :)

the blog candy is for anyone who is a follower or would like to follow my blog. if you follow by email or some other method, please be sure to let me know in the comments. I am offering this as a way to say thank you for those of you who offered your kindness while I was not around due to my illness. it really does mean a lot! :)

even though I only have one physical prize to give away, those of you who have been involved in my blog candy giveaways in the past know that I often will surprise a few of those entered with gift certificates to digital stamp companies. so be sure and get your name in the drawing! :)

Thank you for reading about a cause and people that are so very dear to my heart! I hope you have a wonderful weekend! :)

Challenges:
Crafting With Friends - anything goes
Simply Create Too - anything goes
Crafting With an Attitude - anything goes
Just Add Ink - something new (Prima crystal dots)
Crafty Creations - anything goes
TTCRD - anything goes

Catching Up and a Sympathy Card

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Maple Walnut coffee

Surprise! I am back! :)

I know that I have been away for a VERY long time, but so much has been going on over here. for those of you who have stuck around, I am very thankful. sending you big hugs and much love! :)

I am still dealing with seizures. yeah, yuck, I know. have several a day still. am trying something different that SEEMS to be working, but they haven't gone away yet. crossing fingers, toes, eyes, ears, and everything else I can think of in hopes that it helps. those things wear me OUT! ;)

had another health scare that we are trying to figure out on top of that. yeah, when it rains and all of that fun. but hey, still blessed! :D Palmer & Moon Pie keep me smiling every day, as do the lovely birds I watch at the feeder and the squirrels & chippies that scamper along below it. gotta keep smiling!

I am also working behind the scenes on Ryan & Elizabeth's wedding as well as getting things ready to hopefully open my Etsy store in February. exciting stuff!

Dave's dad passed away on Christmas Day. just going to say that it's been very difficult for everyone for many reasons.

a dear friend's son passed away suddenly, leaving behind a wife and children. it has devastated them, needless to say. a card seems so inadequate, but it is something that I can do, in addition to prayer. so I went into my craft room and made this....

used the "Waterfront" stamp set by SU! and sentiment is from the Reverse Confetti set, "Tall Blooms."  it was inspired by a card I saw on Pinterest using the Waterfront set. the gingham plaid paper is my favorite from Authentique. card base is stamped with the "Burlap" bg stamp, also by SU!

vintage buttons & ticket are from my stash, little flowers & leaves are by Petaloo, linen thread is from SU!, washer is a found item (much to hubby's embarrassment when I picked it up off of the ground! grins!), and tab punch is by EK Success. celery green ribbon is from Really Reasonable Ribbon.

I will have blog candy to post, hopefully over the weekend, to say thank you to those of you who have so kindly stayed as followers of my blog. you will need to be a follower to be eligible, which I don't normally do. this is just my way to show my appreciation for those of you who have hung around! :)

much love to you and have an absolutely fantastic day! :)
Jennifer

Challenges:
Crop Stop - anything goes w/a vendor carried in the Crop Stop store (Authentique, EK Success, Scotch foam mounting tape - for main image)
Get Creative - anything goes
Make My Monday - use words or a sentiment
Fashionable Stamping - anything goes w/rubber stamping
Corrosive - anything goes
Inkspirational - use kraft (card base and one of the ink colors)
Artistic Stamper - anything goes w/rubber stamping
Happy Craft - anything goes
Southern Girls - anything goes
Dream Valley - anything goes

Thanksgiving Wishes!

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Cinnamon Chestnut Coffee

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my friends who live here in the States! :)

May you enjoy peace and happiness with those you hold most dear! May you find yourselves surrounded by joy all throughout the day. I pass these thoughts along to everyone, no matter where in this beautiful world you happen to reside! :)

please forgive me for being away for so long. my seizures have been so very bad of late. it's difficult to be on the computer, much less attempt any crafting. I think I have made one card in the past month. will try to get it uploaded to the blog at some point soon. I do still have Christmas blog candy, but many of us make holiday cards all year long, so that will still be timely even if I don't get it posted soon.

have a fabulous day! I hold you all in my thoughts! :)
Jennifer

From My Heart To Yours for WCMD plus Blog Candy

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Victorian Earl Grey tea (Earl Grey with lavender and roses, one of my very favorites!)

Happy World Card Making Day! I hope you are able to get crafty today, and if not, then perhaps sometime this weekend. :)

Some of you might know that October is the month that is recognized for Breast Cancer Awareness. I have been in remission from Triple Negative breast cancer for 6 years now. to say that I am blessed would be an understatement. I am thankful every single day. flat out. I do ask that you use wisdom in the ribbon causes that you support. just do a bit of research. I remember the kindness that so many people shared with me when I was going through my diagnosis and treatments, so kept that in mind when making my card for today's post.

I am afraid that my one day in the craft room this week was a bit much for my poor head and sent me into a tailspin, but I sure did enjoy getting inky again! I was super blessed earlier to have won a kit from Simon Says Stamp, so put some of the elements to use on my project that I am sharing. the sentiments in the "Mandy's Flowers" stamp  set were perfect for the thinking of you card I wanted to make. flower center is dotted with distress stickles. I sure love that stuff!

the kit also included an assortment of papers from the Bo Bunny Early Bird collection. I don't often use Bo Bunny papers, so this was a treat. very pretty and nice quality. I have several of their digital collections, and will definitely add some paper pads to my stash when I come across them.

ribbons are from Really Reasonable Ribbon, with the seam binding distressed as I love to do. :) pink crochet trim is some that I won a while back, so I apologize that I don't have the store to reference. vintage buttons are from my stash. isn't that floral button gorgeous?!  little flower is from Wild Orchid Crafts. so happy to see that the new owner has opened the store. hooray!

now I know that most of you are here for the blog candy! I have 2 that I am offering - one that is pink/thinking of you/breast cancer awareness themed and another that is Halloween/fall themed. I will have these open for only a few days so that they can be mailed out by the end of next week and the winners can get busy playing with their goodies! candy is open to everyone!!!! no need to post on your blog or become a follower unless you just want to. everyone is welcome to come to the table and share a cup of coffee or tea with me. :)

Pink/Thinking of You/Breast Cancer Awareness Blog Candy:

• Breast Cancer Ribbons
• House Mouse cling stamp
• Pink Washi Tape duo
• Heidi Swapp Journal Embellishments
• Prima cling stamp
• Pink polka dot plastic bags
• Pink Buttons with adhesive
• Pink mulberry flowers
• All items shown in photo
• Assorted other buttons, ribbons, and flowers not shown

*Inlinkz tool removed per new privacy laws since all prizes have been claimed. thank you for your understanding. :)

Halloween/Fall Blog Candy:

• Simon Says Stamp ink pads
• Simon Says Stamp cling stamp set
• 3 Treasured Times cling stamps
• SRM Stickers
• Fall Leaves Washi Tape
• Jack O'Lantern Painting kit
• WOW embossing powder
• All items shown in photo
• Assorted other buttons, ribbons, and flowers not shown

*Inlinkz tool removed per new privacy laws since all prizes have been claimed. thank you for your understanding. :)

I do try to add a few extra items to each blog candy package other than just the items shown. I want each winner to be happy with the goodies that they receive. :)

Winners will be announced on Wednesday, October 10. Please be sure that you have entered the appropriate blog candy by way of the little blog froggy link. if you are unable to do so, please let me know in the comments section. otherwise I will not know that you are interested in the blog candy.

*for those of you who are having difficulty adding links, I am very sorry. I have tested it myself and not had a problem adding a specific blog link. you might want to try that or come back again and try again later. I will add your names to each of the blog candy prize drawings. thank you for letting me know about the problem. if you don't mind, I can try adding your entries myself to see if that works also.

Thank you so much for being friends of my blog and stopping by with your kind comments! Have a most amazing day!
Jennifer

Challenges:
Colour Crazy - #40 anything hand colored goes
Creative Fingers - anything goes
Cardz 4 Galz - What's New? (new stamps, papers, and aqua ribbon)
Crafting with an Attitude - anything goes
Crafty Creations - anything goes
Paper Minutes - watercolors
TTCRD - anything goes
Tuesday Throwdown - for a cause (pink for breast cancer awareness)
A Bit More Time to Craft - anything goes
Creations in Pink - anything goes in pink (LOVE this challenge theme!!!)
Digi Doodle - pink for breast cancer or Halloween
Crafty Cardmakers - lace or ribbon (both here)

Rehearsal Dinner Invitation

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Bossa Nova tea (a vanilla and hazelnut blend - perfect for fall)

Hello! so happy to see all of you today! :)

I am actually feeling pretty good, the sun is shining, a new Doctor arrives on Sunday (for all of you Whovians out there!!!), and I am heading right to my craft room just as soon as I finish typing up this post. yep, life is good indeed. :)

I wanted to share with everyone the invitation I made for Tyler and Danielle's rehearsal dinner. we had such a wonderful time! our brother-in-law, Wilson, cooked the meats on the grill for us while the rehearsal was going on. Ryan's fiancee, Elizabeth, and I were busy in the kitchen getting everything ready as the key players took part in the rehearsal. goodness gracious, I could NOT have gotten everything done without that young lady's help. she was such a saving grace to me that weekend!!!! we are blessed to have her joining our family, without a doubt!!!!

since I had been out of commission for so long with my seizures, I was trying to make things as easy as possible before hand, so did order a few items from local vendors. we have a fabulous apple orchard nearby that makes the most wonderful pies. I ordered a variety from them for dessert and then made some chocolate chip cookies to go along with them. a dear friend of ours has a homemade ice cream business, so they provided an assortment of flavors to go with our desserts. Tyler and I picked up about 6 varieties of breads from Great Harvest Bread Company earlier in the day. oh yum, is about all that needs to be said to that! :) Smoked Chipotle Baked Beans, a French Style Potato Salad, Marinated Fresh Tomato and Mushroom Salad, and Kettle chips finished out the meal. simple, but so very tasty and filling for an evening surrounded by the people who love you!

my invitation was made with papers from the Carta Bella Flora no. 2 collection. pretty ribbons are tied for accent, but kept simple to ease mailing. plenty of distressing to add that shabby touch I love so much. they were a large 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" size.

all of the tables were decorated in navy gingham. paper products were the same. David made these amazing wooden tool box type centerpieces that we filled with mason jars. they held cutlery and napkins. even the dogs were wearing navy gingham bandannas! they looked so cute! :) Tyler bought a navy gingham shirt to wear that night, too, to keep in the spirit!

thanks for stopping by! I'll be back on Saturday for World Card Making Day with a project, hopefully!, and my blog candy! see you then. :)
Jennifer

Cup of Columbine Birthday Greetings

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Tea Thyme (I see that it is currently out of stock. hopefully it will soon be back and ready for purchase. I am almost out myself!)

wow, I know that I have been gone for a very long time. so sorry about that. have lost a handfull of followers, and to those of you who have stayed the path, I am so very grateful and say thank you!!! :)

not only did we have the beautiful wedding, but a few days after that, a dear friend of ours passed away. she had only recently been diagnosed with ALS, so we are all still reeling that she is gone. the day of her funeral, our precious dog, Palmer, was hit by a car. thankfully he is doing okay now, but it's been a bit stressful needless to say.

as I am trying to sort through the supplies from one wedding, we are in the midst of preparing for the next one. :) and all the while the seizures still rage on. sigh.... was ever so thankful that they went on a temporary hiatus for the wedding so that I was able to attend and get what needed to be done, done.

but you are here for craftyness. so here you go! finally! I am hoping to get more done in the days and weeks to come. not sure if anyone ever took photos of the things I made for the wedding, but I do have a picture of the dinner invitation I can share later....

the card was made for my SIL's birthday. the beautiful cup of columbine flower digital image is by Power Poppy, digital papers are from several Prima collections, and sentiment is by SU!  butterfly die is from Cheery Lynn and main die is by Spellbinders. (I can no longer add either digital papers or Cheery Lynn to my post labels for some strange reason per Google. they are flagged and cause my pages to be blocked.)

seam binding is distressed with ink and is from Zipper Stop, twine is from Really Reasonable Ribbon, and flowers are from the former Wild Orchid Crafts. not sure if and when the new owners are going to open the store, as the site has been saying it will be opening soon for quite a while now....

vintage lace & buttons as well as doily are from my stash. frantage powders have been added to the  main image and around edges. wink of stella glitter pen was added to the center of the butterfly die.

again, thank you to those of you who are still here! :) I will do my best to be back and share with you soon. have a most amazing day!
Jennifer

p.s. I will have more blog candy coming VERY soon!!!!

Challenges:
Crafty Gals Corner - 3+ layers
Everybody Art - anything goes
TTCRD - anything goes
Tuesday Throwdown - add some texture
Artistic Inspirations - anything goes
Crop Stop - anything goes w/doily option (Prima & Spellbinders sold in store)
Dream Valley - girlie
Whoopsi Daisy - anything goes in shades of purple
Always Happy Birthday - anything birthday themed goes
Daisy Chain - birthday

Long Time, No See....

Coffee/Tea of the Day - Peach Melba tea

Hello! Sorry that I have been away for so long. I had a very nasty flu bug that kept me in bed for over 3 weeks. just started feeling better this past weekend. it was a really horrible bug. still have the icky cough, but it is finally getting manageable.  the seizures are starting to get a bit better, and I will be going to a seizure specialist after the wedding.

speaking of the wedding, the big day is this weekend!!!! we are in the throes of final preparations now. yep, chaos around here!!!! family starts arriving tomorrow, in addition to Dave and I celebrating our 32nd anniversary on Thursday. lots going on!!! :) but it's all for a very fun reason. :)

needless to say, I haven't done any extra crafting to speak of. lots of stuff for the wedding, obviously, but not much to share here yet.  more than anything I am just thankful that I am beginning to feel a bit better. taking it as easy as I can so that I can be there for the wedding day. every cabin at Camp is full with the exception of just one or two, so it's going to be wonderful to have so many people around to celebrate so much love!

I'll be back in a week or two to post photos. we are pet sitting for Mick and Lauren next week as they take a vacation, so our house will be full of lots of four legged mischief! :D