Christina's Creative Corner

2010 A New Year & New Beginnings

2010-01-05T18:05:00.005-06:00

As much as I have enjoyed blogging in the past I have decided to start this new year differently. If you read this because you are a family member or a friend and you want to know what I’m up to and what's new in my life…………..you already know how to reach me so drop me a note or better yet, call me! I would rather talk to you then wonder if you read the latest update. If you read this to see what’s new in my scrapbook and card making world……well I will be getting back to that soon enough and you’ll find me on the message boards and in the galleries on my favourite sites – and maybe even come across me at some new places.

In the meantime I have a new life to enjoy: since my last entry I have moved, lost and gained friends, let go of furry family members, found unconditional love in my life, read interesting books, been creative in different ways, tried some new things and learned some valuable life lessons. I have let go, moved on, accepted, hurt, healed, grieved and loved. For those of you who have taken the time to read about my world, I thank you for your time and leave you with these thoughts to remember:

• Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.
• When in doubt or crisis, take the next small step.
• There isn’t enough time to waste hating anyone.
• Agree to disagree and know that it is really ok.
• When you cry, cry with someone because it is more healing then crying alone.
• Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up your present.
• Don’t compare your life to others as you have no idea what their journey is about.
• If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it.
• Take a deep breath – it calms the mind.
• Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful.
• Remember that it is never too late to have a happy childhood, but the second one is up to you and no one else.
• Burn the candles, use the good china, wear the lingerie – today is the special occasion you have been waiting for.
• Know that what other people think of you is none of your business.
• Time heals almost everything…. Give time, time.
• Don’t take yourself so seriously… no one else does.
• Believe in life’s miracles.
• However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
• You already have all you need, even if you cannot see it.
• Yield.
• All that really matters in the end is that you loved.

As I head into the beginning of the next decade of my life, I recall how I have always told my mom that my 40’s would be the best years of my life and today I am more sure of that than ever. Continue to count your Blessings, acknowledge who you are, be honest about what you want in your life and don't accept less, be prepared for change, and know that, if you’re not already there, your year is coming……… mine already did.

Oh, one more thing............ don’t forget that life is about living……

Music and People that Lift the Soul

2009-05-24T22:23:00.004-06:00

Tonight was another musical adventure which I thoroughly enjoyed. My friend Arthur and I went for supper then to the season finale of the city Philharmonic Orchestra whose evening theme was "Music By the River". It was interesting to note that a number of the musicians were the same ones I had seen perform last night as members of the city Concert Band.

It has been a long time since I have attended any classical music performances and it was terrific. The guest soloist was a pianist, Martin Janovsky, was yet another young man who really has talent. I think I preferred last night's trumpet soloist which actually was a surprise to me as I thought I would prefer the pianist. I wonder if it's not because I have heard some very highly renouned pianists and it is hard to compare this young man to them while my listening repertoire to wonderful trumpet players isn't extensive? In any case, he was still excellent and created a wonderful listening experience both on his own and as part of the entire Orchestra.

It's funny how some pieces of music bring the thoughts of people or events or places to the front of our minds when we haven thought about them for ages. The one piece that really affected me that way tonight was the Beautiful Danube by Strauss. It was played extremely well - and I've always thought of this as a somewhat difficult piece to play given the rests and timing of entrances - so from that stand point alone it was wonderful to listen to. I am not going to go into all the things and people it brought to the front of my mind but it certainly had an impact on me.

Another thing that impacted me tonight was someone else sitting in the audience. As Arthur and I chose where to sit, I realized that seated in the row directly behind us was a person I greatly admire, respect and love for all the things he did and gave to me when I was a teenager. Every now and again we have someone in our life who has such a great impact - who leaves such a huge impression - that they are never forgotten and there is a little safe box we keep their memory preserved and stored in. While I have seen this man from time to time over the years it stuck me tonight that it was 21 years ago that he and I had our photo taken together - a photo I just happened to come across last weekend when I was sorting photographs. He is a person who saved me from myself on a few occasions and for his encouragement and understanding, for his care and compassion, for his love of teenagers and his willingness to listen I will always be indebted to him. I continue to try to model myself after him by making a difference in the lives of the teens I work with, just as he did in mine. He knows who he is and he knows that he has made a tremendous difference, not only in my life but in many of the lives of the teenagers he worked with. God Bless him for that, because it's no easy task.

Beautiful Day

2009-05-23T22:04:00.007-06:00

Believe it or not, it was finally a warm enough day for me to wear sandals and the anklet I love that I got as a gift last fall!! I have been a busy busy girl cleaning and sorting and working on some basic house renos (sanding, painting etc.) I never realized how much stuff I have accumulated since moving here. This house always seemed so big but it is FULL of stuff so I am gradually going through it room by room and tossing out the junk, and giving away whatever is usable. I will be quite happy once that process is all done!! I've had some help with a bit of that from my friend Kaleah and that has been really great.

Maybe it has been the return of Spring or just the fact that I went through my clothes and realized "I have nothing to wear!" Just kidding! What I noticed was that I have work clothes - jeans, tee's and my summer weekend casual wrap skirts, but beyond that not much of anything so I bought a couple of really great tops (read sexy) and after much searching found a great skirt, a couple pairs of fabulous heels and Kaleah and I recently went shopping for some basic chandelier earrings so now I am pretty much set head to toe for anything that might come up!

Tonight for instance, my friend Lynne and I went for supper and then went to the city band concert. There was a fabulous trumpet soloist - quite a young guy (well, in comparison to me!! LOL!) and amazing talent and sound from him! His name is Ryan Cole if you ever have the opportunity to hear him perform it would be worth going to see him. He just convocated here and will be heading to McGill University to work on a Master's program. I was suitably impressed. I have to say I was surprise at the amount of classical music the band concert played as I expected more common show tunes given the group; however, I wasn't disappointed in the musical choices as there was a nice mix including a lovely medley from "Fiddler on the Roof".

I have been out of the "arts" scene for a while and somehow it is easy to forget what a tremendous amount of talent we have in our city! And I even had something great to wear!! :)

Conference Inspiration

2009-04-28T17:15:00.005-06:00

In my last entry I mentioned this wonderful keynote speaker, David Pelzer, author or several books. I found the manner in which he spoke quite interesting and very captivating. Even though he jumped around from topic to topic, all of a sudden he would say a simple sentence and the previous 5 minutes of his presentation would be pulled together and have a message of some kind. Interestingly, these messages were for anyone and everyone – young and old. These tidbits of advice are so incredibly simplistic they are often overlooked. He reinforced his statements by asking rhetorical questions and focusing on the positive – which given this man’s past and his life story is something of a feat unto itself. In his honour, I’m going to share with you some of the reminders that he gave the audience – words of his that I took away with me. These thoughts and messages don’t necessarily follow any order or pattern but were brought to the forefront of my mind through his storytelling and they serve as reminders to most of us to be caring and compassion and to live the kind of life we’ve always wanted and dreamed of - a kind of life we are capable of creating for ourselves and for one another.

“What’s your problem? Everyone has one.”

“Everyone has junk in their trunk. Purge it.”

“The worst thing is to save the world and lose everything else in the process. Care for yourself first.”

“What are you waiting for? Be Happy. Be Happy Now.”

“How much time do you have left? Enjoy life. It’s only for the now.”

“Don’t forget the bad times. They help you appreciate the Blessings.”

“When you know better you will do better. Keep learning.”

“Challenge is good.”

“Hurt people, HURT people.”

“I love you unconditionally.”

“What makes you happy? Find your Solace.”

“You don’t have a job – you’re on a mission.”

“You never know what the tide’s gonna bring in the next day.”

And finally, even though these are David's words, I hope you take them to heart:

“What the Hell are you Waiting For? HAVE FUN.”

For more information about David Peltzer, check out his website:

http://www.davepelzer.com/

Life's Messages Arrive in Unexpected Ways

2009-04-27T20:38:00.006-06:00

Perhaps it is just me but have you ever noticed how life just has this strange way of giving us what we need? That somehow what our hearts need to hear the most just shows up in our lives in a completely unexpected way? Well that has happened to me recently – not just once or twice but a few times. And I can even so as far as to say that when I haven’t really REALLY listened to it the first time the same message gets repeated to me over and OVER until I start to accept that this is the information I have been looking for even though at first I did not recognize it as such. Perhaps that is a little convoluted and philosophical for some of you but in my life it just seems to be the normal progression of how things work!!

For a long time I have been contemplating selling my house, packing up my cats and dog and moving to someplace unknown (preferably a place that is not inhabited by men as I have decided life would be much less complicated without them! :) Seriously, this is the state of general discontent my life has moved into. Even though I love my job, my house and the city I live in sometimes that doesn’t seem like enough. We all go through this from time to time and in an unexpected (loving?) conversation I had with my brother last night, I somehow got the message I needed to hear (Thanx Bro!). So I’m staying here. Going to continue to look at down-sizing, and simplifying my life. Realizing that I do my job because I love what I do – not because the people I work for and with are wonderful. I am just lucky that I love what I do and sometimes that has to be enough.

That said, it doesn’t mean my life is perfect or that I’m not going to work at making things better for myself; it just means that I’m going to stay focused on the people and things that make my life meaningful and happy – the same as everyone should!!

It has been a bit since I last updated everyone and time is going very fast right now. I caught myself another damn cold and was in bed basically four days in a row. It developed into a lovely chest cough but that seems to be dissipating somewhat now. Unfortunately for me, I headed out of town for a 3 day conference and was still sick throughout but Wednesday was the worst. I couldn’t wait to get back to the hotel and go to bed!! Anyway day 1 kicked it off with a facility teachers meeting; day 2 the opening speaker, a couple of sessions and a banquet; and day 3 another couple of sessions and the return trip home. All in all I thought it was a very good three days – and I have to say, at least in my view, the keynote speaker – author David Pelzer, did not disappoint!! It was also really interesting to learn about some of the programs that are being developed and used throughout the province both within the custody facilities and the community schools. I am also grateful to have the opportunity to re-connect to a few other facility teachers whom I like and admire for their optimism and progressive attitudes!

In other areas of my life, I am approaching my second meditation class this coming weekend and am really looking forward to it. I know I have to spend a little time writing out my ‘homework’ responses and will arrange some kind of a “play date” with my friend Lynne who is also taking the same class – so that will be a bit of fun for my weekend. Other than that – I have no particular plans. Of course there’s always more renos and touch ups to be done! One day soon I hope to get back to my scrap-booking table but that will happen when the time is right and until I’m in the creative mind set I’ve just learned to accept and not to force the process!

I have been counting my blessings recently and when I take the time to look around me I realize how many people have had huge impacts on my life lately - trust me - you know who you are. Just so you know your kindnesses - words, gestures, gifts, hugs and time spent with me don't go unappreciated. Thank you for all the positives you have given me -and the wonderful ways you have each added to my life - even when I haven't believed I deserve it.

Waayy too Long Lazy Bones :)

2009-04-16T16:32:00.018-06:00

I can't believe it has been way over a month since I last put in a post. I guess I will have to make a better effort at keeping this up so you all know what has been going on in my life!!

Not in any particular order here's a catch-up entry:

I found a couple of wonderful people to do some work in my house. First of all, Pete came highly recommended by my neighbour who he has done some work for in the past. He gave me quite a decent estimate on building bookcases for my den/reading room. In talking with him he also felt he would be able to complete the rest of the room including the flooring installation, tiling, mantle, and finishing trim. I was quite happy to hire one person to do most of the room so I went ahead and did that. I really appreciated that Pete was in touch with me on a daily basis as the room progressed and kept me up to speed with what was going on and how long things would take.

Here are some before and after photographs so you can see how beautiful it is. It has truly turned into my favourite room in the entire house. I light my candles in the fireplace in the evening and sit in my lovely chaise with a cat or 2 on my lap and the dog on the floor beside me. The peace and serenity I have found here is amazing. I love it - and in fact am sitting there as I write this post right now!!

So above, I know I mentioned a couple of wonderful people. Pete was only one. The other is a terrific person named Mike. Mike came to the house to give me an estimate on some painting, wall repairs, flooring repairs and such that needed doing - you know - all the "bits" that you never seem to get around to? He was one of three people I contacted to give me estimates for that kind of repair work. He gave me a great estimate, like Pete did, and was so personable I knew he was the right person to do this work for me.

Mike scraped, mudded, sanded and painted my main bathroom yellow (yes, I did say yellow Mike!); did similar wall repairs for me in my en-suite and re-painted it too. He did some electrical on my main floor - in the main bathroom where the light and fan switches are finally inside the bathroom, and in the den where he installed my dimmer switches, new electrical boxes in my bookcase bases and my new light fixture. He also made my sliding curtains in the den look awesome (I know, I know - you hate IKEA!! LOL!). He was a huge help in the basement when I started having issues with my hot water tank. He repaired that (even when the two plumbers who came out didn't seem to be able to), cleaned up the wiring in my furnace/storage room, wrapped my hot water pipes the way they should have been done initially, repaired some flooring in the little kids room, helped one of my other friends move my couch into my den, touched up some paint on the main floor and was just an overall "handy" guy to have around.

Through all that we became good friends and spent quite a bit of time talking, eating and watching movies which was wonderful. Mike even went so far as to check on me when I came home from work sick one day. (I had the flu. Yuk!) Now, the sad part for me is that he isn't from here - not even from this province - and has now returned to the place he views as "home". I hope he is doing well there and that we can stay in touch. Mike is a kind hearted person - not something too easy to come across this day and age. He did a lot of work for me that I will always be grateful for, let alone having the opportunity to get to know someone as terrific as he is. What a treat!!

Anyway, as you can tell things in my house have been in a state of flux and disarray for a while. Lots of extra cleaning (yes, if you know me at all, you know I'm one of those 'clean freaks') but it has paid off as the house really does look so much better. There are still a few things I need to get done (hey Mike, you coming back this way anytime soon?!! ;) - some of which I can do myself so I need to get focused on those and get them out of the way.

Work is about the same but seems a little more stressful lately with lots going on and an upcoming conference next week so I will be away for three days to attend that. My mom said she would be happy to cat and dog sit so she will be here taking care of things for me which takes away some of the stress of being away from home. Having someone I trust looking after my furry kids is always an issue. I know one thing is for sure - she's gonna curl up in my big chaise and read while I'm gone - I just KNOW it!!

I have started attending a meditation class once a month and it runs for the nest few months. The woman leading the group is a psychic medium so you can imagine that is right up my alley. She is a really interesting person and is offering some other classes I am interested in taking at some point. So far I have been to one session and am currently working on my "homework" assignments. Very interesting. Truth be told, I am hoping to get a lot of out this class. I need to get re-centered, re-focused and figure out what I want and where I am going with my life and my decisions. I am facing quite a few big choices over the next few months and really want to be sure I am on the best path for me so I am quite hopeful that this will help me in that area of of my life.

It just happens that there is also a lady I work with who, when I told about the class was genuinely interested and was able to get into it as well. She and I have become quite good friends and supports for each other outside of our regular work environment and because class happens on Saturday early in the afternoon, that might be the best excuse for the two of us to get together and have a bite to eat :) What do you think girlfriend?

Obviously you can tell that I am busy with one thing and the other and have some decisions to make. Neither of which is bad on their own but together it makes for a hectic life! Because of that and the level of stress I've been encountering, I am trying to get back into running - with having injured my knew about a year ago, that has been really difficult to do. Mostly (and I must admit, sadly) I end up power walking quite a bit instead of being able to jog but at least I am finding the exercise helpful and somewhat of a stress reliever. Not quite as effective as when I used to jog a lot but every thing you can do to help eliminate stress is a 'step in the right direction' (sorry about the pun!)

Something else some of you might not know is that last Fall a friend of mine and I did a photo shoot (or ten!) and believe it or not, for once I was in front of the camera, and not behind it!! I ended up with some quite nice (amazing?) photos and we now have plans to do another session this summer which will be another interesting stretch for me in terms of stepping out of my box and moving outside of my comfort zone. To add to that I have another friend (male) who is interested in participating in this photo shoot with me so that will be an entirely different challenge for both myself and the photographer. We'll have to see how that goes!! Truthfully I am hoping that the walking/jogging will help me get a little better body shape before we do the photo shoot(s?). Anyway, if anybody wants to pre-order a calendar for next year you know where to find me - LOL!! ;)

In terms of my furry family, generally things are ok. Shumi had some pretty bad seizures just a few weeks back so I have consulted with the vet and adjusted his medication accordingly in hopes that I can get the seizures under control and we won't have to add any more medication to what he already taking. Poor guy!! However, he does seem to be doing quite well these days and I am hoping that when mom is here sitting the pets for me she will be able to keep a little closer eye on him then I can as I am at work all day.

I also have this wonderful girl who is like a younger sister/niece to me. She is a great teenager and we do some things together on occasion. Several years ago I promised her I would always be there for her and I am doing my best to uphold that promise. We shop, go for supper, go to the occasional movie or hang out at the local bookstore (not too exciting for some of you but for her and I it is cuz we are both book worms :) I'm tickled and honoured that she likes to spend time with an old gal like me!! Last night I got to take her for supper at my favourite Vietnamese place and we had a really nice time together so that was great. She just started her own blog so here's the link (which I will also in my favourites) if you want to go check her out!

http://kaleahbrynn.blogspot.com/

Another exciting thing that I want to mention is that I designed a ring (an ankh of course!) and had it made. It's a time consuming process, but totally worth it for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Ken (the goldsmith I have used on occasion) did a fabulous job and I am over-the-top-happy with how well it turned out! In fact, when I went to see the mold that they make the metal cast from, I was still wondering if it was going to look as good in real life as it did in my head - and I have to tell you - it is waaayyyy better in person!! So you can watch for me to be wearing that!! I so LOVE it!

Lately I have been giving a lot of thought to my Blessings. Sometimes I forget to do this on a regular basis. I have to be one of the luckiest people on the planet - I have wonderful friends spread from B.C. to Ontario, great family, furry kids that put a smile on my face almost daily (yes, silly girls I'm talking about you :), a lovely home, loads of support when things get rough, a job working with kids that who I love, enough to eat, an excess of clothes (sad, but true), and have few true complaints that cannot be fixed or changed though making different decisions. What is better than that?

Well I better sign off for now as I have company coming over in a bit - tea and dessert tonight with a visit. Ought to be a good time.

Hugs to everyone :)

Everyone Should Believe

2009-03-09T21:59:00.006-06:00

in the "Wish Fairy". There is something sweet about the innocence of small children and the mentally challenged. Not everyday do you go to work to find your duties have include becoming a wish fairy - or rather, playing the role of the wish fairy. One day last week another staff member asked me to phone from one room in our building to another so that I could speak to a challenged youth who simply wanted to talk to wish fairy and explain (in great detail) what he was wishing for. So I said yes. There I was on the phone talking to a youth who I had a visual sight line of through a large plexi-glass window, trying not to give away that he was talking to me - the best wish-granting-fairy-of-all-time (according to him!!) His first wish was to have a friend - and he wanted his doll to come alive and be a friend for him. Then he went on to ask me if I could give him a different wish - and that was for his brother - who loves him very VERY much - to come see him and stay with him. Well I really couldn't grant that one either but we decided if he was a very good boy and listened to everyone and went to bed that night and closed his eyes really tight and pictured his brother it would be just like having him there. I mean really, what's a wish fairy supposed to say in those circumstances?? Our conversation continued to include some wonderful questions that still make me smile, such as "Do you know Tinkerbell?" and "Are you and Peter Pan friends? I talked to Peter Pan yesterday."

What a fun part of my day that was!!

New Cat Blogs

2009-03-02T19:51:00.006-06:00

As many of you know, I am a lover of most things with fur! I just received an email about 2 newer blogs and I want to pass these along to you so that if you are also a cat person you might take the time to read them. They are near and dear to my heart simply because they are both representative of SCAT - the Street Cat Rescue group that several of my cats have been adopted from. Please take a look at the good things these people are doing for the many yet-to-be-adopted cats and kittens in our city.

http://communities.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/blogs/pawsitivethinking/default.aspx

http://catadoptioncentreonfaithfull.blogspot.com/

I know I will be sure to be keeping my eye on these new forums!!

Learning to Juggle

2009-02-09T18:12:00.010-06:00

It seems that these days about all I do is juggle one thing to another with little or no accomplishment and less of a sense of completeness than I’ve had at other times in my life. I guess that is because there are a lot of adjustments I find myself making – not all of which can be put into words but many of which involve some deep emotional content that I will just have to work my way though. So how’s that for a nice rambling opening statement?

One of the biggest impacts in my life as of late has been the loss of another of my dear pets, Puss-puss, my 15 year old cat – exhibiting only small symptoms which took me some time to narrow down just who was having the issue. A couple of weeks ago the blood work confirmed what I already suspected – he had gone into Renal Failure. For those of you who do not know what that is, the easiest way to explain it, is to say its kidney failure. It is a fairly common ailment in older cats – and there are a few things that can be done to prolong a good quality of life – like sub-q fluids and a special, strict diet. It’s up to every individual what they feel is the best in their circumstance – and for me, I couldn’t do that to him. When I heard him crying, getting that first sub-q injection, it nearly broke my heart. So, I chose to keep him for a week – treat him with lots of love and kindness, say to heck with his urinary tract diet, spoil him with treats and good human food, and just spend time with him enjoying his last few days. As hard as it was, the right decision for me and for him was to let him go.

In telling others about my predicament I learned a lot. First, I am lucky to have such great support from young people. My two teen-age friends said very similar things – one expressed how Puss would be able to reunite with his two brothers and sister and noted that it was strange how the sickest of my original three kittens was the one who lived the longest; and the other suggested that it was ok for him to go and for me to let go because Puss already knew there was someone else around to take care of me and that I would be okay. Both of these wonderful girls sent text hugs and kisses to say goodbye as both had known him for a very long time.

I also learned that there really are people out there who care about you – and you might not even know it. This was made crystal clear to me on a couple of different occasions when visiting my veterinarian and when talking to the clinic staff on the phone. The vet even expressed to me that this cat was one of his first clients when he took the clinic over from the previous vet and he went on to tell me what a sweet cat I had, and that he would be missed. I was also touched by a note that was left for me from a woman who does some work for me. She told me coming to my house just isn’t the same because she misses his kisses. Isn’t it odd how attached we become to our pets – and don’t even realize that others have become attached to them too?

Now just over a week has passed, and as hard as it has been for me to let go I am finally getting used to not seeing him around the house – there is no cat eating breakfast on the back door mat; no curled up ball of fur sleeping in his favourite round chair; no one climbing on my lap to inform me that it is supper time and he is hungry; no little white cat feet tying to hold my face and lick me with that very sandpaper-like tongue. There is no cat in the house that will put up with me scooping him up and dancing across the living room with him; there is no “heavy breather” lying along the back of the couch on his heated mat. There is no cat crawling into every box and bag that comes into the house; there is no sneaky white-bread-eating-cat-chewing-his-way-though-the-plastic-bag-to-get-to-the-newly-bought-buns. There is no cat following the vacuum cleaner, waiting for his grooming session with the hose.

The dog has lost his play mate – the only cat who would let the dog pounced on him and hold him down; Sarah has lost another friend, companion and grooming partner; and I have lost one of my very best friends who has seen me through many life changes- jobs, houses, partners, and the loss of friends, loved ones and his furry siblings.

I have come to see how lucky I am to have had him in my life these last 15 years, and he stands as a reminder to me not to take life for granted because none of us ever really know what is around the next corner or how long we have left in this world. He taught me to hang onto those I love with both paws, enjoy it when someone else gives me a bath, accept hugs and kisses, find a warm body to snuggle up to, and to show my gratitude the best way I can. He taught me the value of sharing my toys, that sometimes it’s really ok to stick my tongue out at the world and that a nap in the sun can solve almost any problem. He role modeled for me that it’s okay to let others take care of me when I need it, that sometimes it’s okay to clown around and he showed me that every now and then you have to accept a little craziness from those you love. Thank you for the life lessons little man. Love you.

Stoich-e-WHO?

2009-01-25T18:47:00.008-06:00

So as most of you know, I am no chemist but last week I spent a few hours trying to help this lovely young lady prepare for her final Chemistry 20 exam. I am not sure just how much help I was really as I had to review the whole course myself to start with AND I am not that great at math which doesn't help too much in the face of Stoichiometry - but by the end of the 3rd (and final!) study session I did see that she was catching some of the concepts that has passed by her during class!!

So Kaleah, if you have 3 eggs and five cups of flour how many loaves of bread can you make and what will be left over?? LOL!!

Of course, as with any study session, a few kit-kat breaks are required.....

Fudge Puddles Anyone?

2009-01-12T20:26:00.012-06:00

While visiting family over Christmas I was introduced to THE most decadent peanut-butter-chocolate-filled cookies I think I have EVER had. They are sweet enough to knock your socks off and rich enough that ONE will do - but trust me, it's verrryyyyy hard to stop at one!! So while my cookie batter is in the fridge I thought I could spend a few minutes on another entry.....

This weekend was another fun-filled time for me. In fact, it was one of THE BEST birthdays I have EVER had. Honestly, it was great.

My BF, Noel came up from Regina and arrived here mid afternoon Saturday. I was Blessed to have him here as he had a bad night of driving and had no sleep since the afternoon before. Running on only a few energy drinks it told me a lot that he made such an effort to be here. It was important to me that he was here for several reasons - but the main one is that I wanted him to meet my BFF - Patti, her husband Scott and their baby Carlee. (I had yet to meet Carlee myself!) It was an absolute bonus that he gave me a beautiful birthday gift and the sweetest card ever ;-)

Shortly after Noel arrived so did Patti and Scott with Carlee in tow. Finally seeing Carlee itself was great. What a good little cutie-pie! (Back in August when Carlee was born I was able to finally show you some of the projects I had been working on so check last years' August entries to meet her and see her cool diaper cake, baby blanket and keepsake box!) You know, just getting together with such dear friends was a great treat. I cannot think of the last time Patti and I actually got to spend any kind of celebratory day together in the last 20 years - besides her wedding! We went for supper and Carlee slept nearly the entire time - much to my amazement!! Back at my house we chatted some more and did our Christmas/Birthday exchange all in one - and just like always, Patti knows the kinds of things I love and once again has spoiled me rotten!! (It's ok - don't stop!! I love it :)

Here are a few photos from that evening - and sooner or later I'll post some more once Patti sends them to me (hint!hint!!! LOL!!):

It was a wonderfully relaxing evening because these are all people I love and who know me so well that we can joke and just have a good time. It was nice for me that they enjoyed each other's company with never having met before, and hopefully down the road we'll be able to do more visiting!

It was great to see you Patti & Scott and to finally meet li'l Carlee!! Travel safe on your return home and keep in touch. Love you Girl!! F.F.

Oh yah, the cookies turned out great :)

Sunday Night Coffee Break

2009-01-06T21:53:00.009-06:00

Lucky me! I got to have a wonderful visit with Kaleah and her mom, Twyla, just the other night. I got a beautiful Christmas gift from them and a fabulous hand-made card (and we all know how I love those hand-made cards!!) I adore the candle holder Kaleah chose for me because it is inscribed with this statement "Sunshine, Laughter and Friends are always welcome".

It was truly great to have a visit and catch up. Time goes by so quick and we all get so busy with our lives it's nice to stop and really enjoy the friends we have - so over coffee and scrumptious chocolate lava cake, deep dish apple pie and cheesecake desserts, that's what we did!! Here are some photos of Twyla, her beautiful daughter Kaleah ..... and well... of me!! :)

They are both real sweethearts and both of their friendships mean a lot to me!!! Thanks for the wonderful visit.... and Kaleah remember it's over the bridge, two stop signs, turn right, turn left go one block - and don't forget my Cafe Mocha!! LOL!!!

Holiday Post - Time to Catch Up

2009-01-05T04:42:00.023-06:00

It's back to work for me in a few short hours from now so I thought it was about time to post a holiday update. Let me first say I hope that you all have had an enjoyable Christmas and New Year's and have spent your time among family and friends as I had the opportunity to do.

I really decided not to stress myself about the holidays this year - no "perfect present" hunting, no fancy meal preparations, no baking to speak of (except that which I received as gifts.... Mmmmmmmm thanks - you know who you are :)!! Just the simple choice of who to spend my time with and where that was going to be. Personally I think this was one of the holidays I will recall with the most fondness....

My boyfriend (yes, I am still trying to determine if I am too old to have a boyfriend but I'll call him that for now - alth0ugh "man-toy" does also have kind of a nice ring to it ;-) arrived earlier on Christmas Eve day than I expected which was a terrific surprise and we spent the majority of the holiday together which was really wonderful and a lot of fun.

Christmas Day, was a pretty relaxing affair at my house. My mom came over and we did a little present opening and later in the afternoon my sister and her family also stopped in and we did a little more present opening. I have to say I am one spoiled girl when it comes to the present department!! We made the traditional turkey dinner (no over-the-top-Martha-table-setting for me this year though!) with all the trimmings, including mashed potatoes to die for. Everyone got in on the Spirit of the Season including my newest furry kids who had never experienced the joys of playing under (and IN) a Christmas tree before! Truthfully it was one of the most laid back, thoroughly enjoyable Christmases I have ever had.

Boxing Day was an event all unto itself. It was an early morning start off to visit my "Alberta family" as I fondly refer to them. A quick check-in at the hotel and onto my brother and sister-in-law's home where we were greeted with hugs and by a host of other family members who were already having a pretty good time!! Always interesting when visiting there as you never quite have any idea what to expect or who or how many bodies might be present at any given time!! It was great to see all my nieces and their respect families there having a 'relatively' good time. As usual at their house, there was plenty of delicious food and good conversation and fun. (And yes, she REALLY playing that thing with her nose.... only in my family!! SIGH!!)

The following day it was off to West Ed. mall to drop off a little Christmas gift to a girlfriend of mine just before she started her work shift for the afternoon. Even though it was a quick catch-up it was great to see her as always and at least make sure her breakable gift arrived in one piece!! After few bits and pieces of shopping and getting some 'must have' Cinazeo's cinnamon buns, it was a fast trip back to the hotel and off for a much quieter evening visit with my brother and his wife. What a difference a day makes in ther household!!

Then on the 28th we decided to take a quick trip to Calgary. Lucky for me my pet sitter didn't mind staying an extra day (Thanks Mom!!). Arriving in Calgary in the early afternoon, we hit a pretty good 'craft' store with goodies for both me (scrapbook supplies) and my guy (diecasts) so that worked out really well for the both of us. That evening we went visiting and the next day made the return trip home.

All in all, even though it was cold, the trip was a wonderfully relaxing, well-deserved break! My BF decided to do some sledding so off he went for the better part of a couple of days which gave me some much needed time to clean my house and tidy up from Christmas. It also gave me a chance to do a little different kind of 'house-cleaning' that was in dire need of being done - I sorted through some papers, letters, old journals and cards and had some good giggles and a few tears as pages went through the shredder. (I must have over worked my shredder as I killed it and had to buy a new one!!) In amongst the letters, I came across a great photograph of my cat Puss-Puss that my friend Patti had taken and mailed to me years ago. Looking at that photo really proved to me how much he has aged - and as usual, I was worried that he would be the next to go - even though it turned out not to be the case.

I was very pleasantly surprised by my BF when he returned earlier than expected from his trip and we spent a quiet New Year's Eve together. The next couple of days were about errands and doing a little of this and a bit of that - and making a difficult decision.

When we returned from our trip, I found that Nathan - my 5 year old tuxedo - wasn't feeling well. I watched him closely for a few days and decided the kindest thing I could do for him was to let him go. He had an immune deficiency since I got him as a kitten and I had done everything I knew to do through his few years - including having all his teeth pulled to see if that would minimize the bleeding he had in his gums. On and off antibiotics that upset his stomach and didn't help; then most recently he had 2 steroid shots which gave some relief but did not solve his ongoing cat cold for any length of time. (Normally these injections should have lasted about 3 months but in his case they were helping only for 4-6 weeks.) I decided that I just did not have the heart to keep giving him injections every few weeks, and so on January 2nd took him to the vet and held him while they put him to sleep. Not the best way to start a New Year, but the timing of some things are beyond our control.

So Nathan, you know I will miss your soft kneading paws and your deep purr. You were a little ball of fluff when you joined our family - and your antics have always made me smile. I will continue to think of all the times I fed you - as I would place your food bowl down in front of you, I would say "You definitely know how to dress for dinner, my boy" and I swear you'd smile. I guess that will always be our inside joke. I will miss your toothless ways and your big, beautiful eyes. Only here for 5 short years, but worth every tear I've shed in losing you. Love you big guy......

So to close this entry on a more positive note, I have to say, there is nothing like being surrounded by the people who love you during the holidays. This is one year that I have been lucky enough to spend time with many different people who love me and wish only the best for me - their acts of generosity and kindness and heartfelt words have created a warmth in my heart that is beyond description. It is they who have made losing my Nathaniel a little easier. Suffice it to say, it has been one of the years I have truly felt the most loved by those around me and it is a season that will not be soon forgotten. Thank you to all who have played a role in celebrating the last few weeks of the year with me. May 2009 be filled with All the Blessing you so Truly Deserve. Love to you...

A "Response"

2008-12-16T20:02:00.004-06:00

Last night, talking to Ian on the phone, he asked me about a blog comment that was left at the end of August. (You know who you are!) I actually had not seen it until he brought it up and when I read it I felt it deserved a simple response to the questions it contained so here goes:

If you care to read some of my other blog entries (ie. July 6th) you will find that Squeak passed on in July of this year. Boots passed in August of 2004 - both from cancer - just different kinds. Puss-Puss is as scrawny as ever but still healthy except for seeming to be as deaf as a post. As you can see from my other blog entries I have a whole different furry family now!

I passed your hello onto my mom. She is "mom" to a lot of people and you're not the only one who thinks of her that way. Oh yeah, and you're right. It really has been a long time. I hope you and your family are doing well.

That's all for now.....

TOO Much Fun

2008-11-17T16:28:00.005-06:00

Can anyone ever really have TOO much fun? Well I think I must have about a week ago!!

Seriously, I was thrilled when Kelsey called to tell me she was in town and wanted to have a girls’ night like the old days!! I was so excited that I could hardly stand it!! After I tackled the grass cloth on my own and did so rather successfully, I decided that I needed to break up the busy-ness and Monday morning it was off to buy some paint for one of the walls, all the trim and above the fireplace. I found a color that seems to work with the wall covering, the tiles and the new drapery panels so I got painting on that and was all done within a day or 2.

From the paint store I went to the lawyer’s office where I updated my will and then it was off to the grocery store. Even though I was running a little late, Kels was very understanding and it was wonderful to see her!! We shopped all afternoon and Kels gave me her thoughts and opinions on a lot of things. We stopped for a snack and coffee and had a great visit which really gave me a chance to catch up with her and all the things she has been doing lately. She really has some great goals and plans for her life and I can’t imagine her not being successful as she is one determined young lady!!

We met up with Ian and ran home to collect the 2 kittens and popped them over to the vet. My two youngest were both spayed last week and one seemed to have a little infection in the incision so I wanted to have that looked at. Both girls got their boosters then too so only the one needs to make a return visit in 10 days! After that we did a little more shopping and the tree of us went for supper. It was really good for Kels to have a chance to visit with Ian as they have known each other for a long time too and I think it was good for both of them. Kelsey is the kind of girl who brightens everyone’s day and it was a joy to tease her about the Orzo soup – which she now calls maggot soup. (Too many CSI’s for her imagination!! LOL!)

Back at the house I asked Ian to take some photos of Kels and I so here is one of those…

After Ian left Kelsey and I spent a long time talking and just catching up. Funny the observations that others make about us when we don’t even see what is going on in our own lives. Kels told me that Ian and I were way more relaxed then we had been when she and her brother had visited us one-and-a-half years ago – we were more fun to be with and seemed better off as friends then as a couple. Out of the mouths of "babes".

We spent a great deal of the evening talking about clothes and boys and school and life and I think that was a wonderful thing for the both of us. Definitely some strong bonding time. Kels is one of those kinds of people that even when you don’t see her it never feels like you’ve been apart for very long!

We finally sat down shortly after midnight (yes, with cheese toast, and delicious hot chocolate) and watch one of the 2 girlie movies that we rented – “Heavy Petting”. It was pretty good actually and even tho’ someone told me the title sounds like “soft porn” - it wasn’t!! Finally we headed for some zzzzzzz’s around 3 am. (Waaayyyyy too late for this “old” teenager!!)

While Kelsey slept in I did a few household chores and finally gave up opened her bedroom door and threw a couple of cats on the bed to get her up. It seemed to work as she came into the kitchen looking bleary eyed a few minutes later! We ate a late (very late!) breakfast and talked a lot about religion and spirituality and eventually headed back to the living room to watch “Penelope” which was a cute movie as well. None too impressed with me, Kels kept her face hidden during the movie so I could not take any photos of her…. So here are the few shots I did get…..

(nice eyeball Kels!! LOL!)

And while I was off putzing around a bit she decided to take some photos of herself to leave with me… too cute!
and Kels' version of "scary cat"...

Finally - here are my three fav pics from our weekend Kels - don't be surprised if you see them show up on a scrapbook page sometime!!

Anyway, Kelsey I know you’ll read this eventually and I just want to tell you that you are maturing into a wonderful person and that I am incredibly proud to know you and to be considered one of your friends. Keep in touch! I really do miss seeing you and having you live next door!! Love you girl!!

How Long Has It Been?

2008-11-09T10:36:00.027-06:00

It has been much to long to tell you everything that has been going on but I do want to share some thoughts and photos with you!! The easiest might be to try to catch up from where I left off in September.... so here we go

September was a busy month with returning to work after having several weeks off in the summer. There always seems to be something to catch up on even though there is always someone doing my job when I am gone. One of the nicest things about returning to work is having the kids I work with tell me they are glad I am back and that they missed me. It's good to know I am creating some bonds with these troubled teens.

I spent a good part of September in my yard doing general clean-up and getting ready for Fall. I hired someone to do some of the heavier work - including cleaning my gutters and pruning a large tree in my back yard. Hopefully in the Spring my perennial flower bed will grow a little better without the tree blocking out all the sunshine!! I also arranged for winter snow removal so that is one less thing I have to worry about taking care of. (Not that I want to see the snow just yet, but I know it's inevitable!)

I also finally did something for myself that I've wanted to do for many years - get a tattoo. I designed a tattoo of my cat who passed away in July of this year. I had my tattoo done by Sylvia at Pic-Man . She is really cool and we had a lot of fun. In fact she said this is one of her favourites. Here are some photos of my tat session (which I will scrapbook eventually!!)

The rest of September really flew by. I got my new bedroom furniture assembled and set up my room a little differently then what it was.........

and my two new girls grew like weeds....

then it was October.....

With October came a sick cat (Nathan) who was not responding to the antibiotics that he was on so back to the vet and as a last resort we tried a steroid shot which really seems to have done the trick. He will likely need this injection every few months but if it works and keeps him healthy and with a good quality of life then I am happy with that. Of course, steroids will shorten his life span but a shortened healthier life is better than a sick, unhappy existence for longer.... at least that's how I see it and I think Nate would agree!!

I also had yet another meeting with the company that is building bookcases for my den and we finalized the measurements for those. October also brought another couple of trips - one that I wouldn't miss for the world.

My brother's family decided to throw him a surprise 50th birthday party so my mom and I took the bus to a town about an hour outside of Edmonton. We arrived at the hotel on Thursday night, did a little shopping Friday, and went to my oldest niece's house on Saturday in time for the party. It was WONDERFUL!! He was completely surprised and was thrilled that his family was there - his kids and grand kids and his sisters and mom. had a really great time - although I must say I think he had the best time of any of us!! Everything was wonderful - from the food to the decorations - and the company was great too. He was in a very "brotherly" mood - "I just want you to be happy and have what I have with Bo because she's wonderful" he said. Mind you, he also asked some personal questions that, as his wife told him the next day, "a brother should never ask a sister those questions!!" which I found really funny!! Here are a few photos from that...... mostly of the birthday boy and the rest of you know who you are!

My mom and I spent the next couple of days at his house and visited with both him and his wife, who wasn't feeling well at all. It was also nice to be there on his actual birthday and give him his gifts - Harley shirts - which he loved!

I did get chance to see their newly renovated bedroom and she did show me her "almost done except for the baseboards" renovated craft room. I just learned that she recently got into card making and some altered projects which I think are amazing......

I am trying to convince her to go over to Sassy Scrapper and join the wonderful group of ladies that post their projects and pages there. They have been incredibly supportive and kind when it has come to my absence on the site and have been very welcoming and encouraging me to come back and join them when I can!!

I returned from my brother's only to go to Regina for a few days. It was a nice break - just to be away and to know that everything at home was being handled well by Margaret (thanks!!) who is the most awesome house and pet sitter EVER!! I hung around with Noel and really did not do much of anything - I guess that's why it was such a nice break!! We are going to continue to see each other when we can and see how that goes.

That took me to the beginning of November....

Back to work and the regular routine.... I have manged to set up lots of appointments through the month - you know, things that just need to be taken care of - doctor, dentist, tattoo touch up etc. Even the cats have their appointments - in fact, the 2 youngest girls just got spade last week and this week everyone has their routine vet checkup/vaccination appointments!

I decided to take Monday off to give myself a 4 day weekend as I knew I had lots to do in the den to get ready for my bookcase installation. I am so happy because I was able to get the grass cloth up on my walls all by myself!! I wasn't sure how difficult it was going to be but I managed it and am quite pleased with the results. (No pictures yet but I will post some when the whole room is done and you can see the progression start to finish then!!) I purchased enough to all 3 walls but decided against doing that as I felt it might be too busy so am going to pick up some paint in the next couple of days and hopefully can get the wall and possibly the trim painted before my 'long weekend' is over!!

Happily I also heard from a sweetheart of a girl who is visiting the city this week. She is here from Edmonton and is babysitting her cousin and wants to get together for a girl's night so that's what we are going to do. I haven't seen her in over a year and I really miss her. I knew her when she was just a little thing and now she is 16. I thought it was so sweet that she wants to have the same kind of girl's night that we used to have when she was small and I would look after her in the evening sometimes. I am really looking forward to spending Monday night with her - a chic
flick and some "famous hot chocolate" (if I can remember the recipe!) !! I will be sure to post some photos of that in a few days!

Well I suppose that pretty much catches you all up..... Sassy ladies I will be back at it pretty soon - lots of things still going on but life seems to be settling down and I need to get back to scrapping as I am falling further and further behind!! Can't wait to see you all on the boards!!

Sorting and Cleaning

2008-09-12T13:14:00.010-06:00

Ever think you just HAVE to sort out your house - and I don't just mean the place that you live, but your own physical, mental and emotional house? Well that is what I am doing - more or less! I am one of those people who cleans physically (an exercise in futility with 6 cats and one dog!)and emotionally at the same time. I suppose for me the task of cleaning is a mindless one so it enables me to think and still feel that I have something to show for it! So that explains, at least somewhat, the delay in between posts - which I really apologize for!

I wasn't able to get as much scrapping done over the summer as I had hoped because other things came up and took priority; but that's okay because I know the scrapping will always be there and I'll get back to it eventually. Right now I have other things on my plate - some renovating projects like my den and now some flat packed furniture that I need to assemble! I am sure it will all get done - and like for most people it's just a matter of time! There also seems to be lots of outside yard work that needs to be done to prepare for the coming fall and I have to get going on that.

I hadn't seen this beautiful girl, Kaleah, in quite a while so it was great to get together and catch up with her and her mom over supper a couple of weeks ago. She really means a lot to me and here is a photo of the two of us from our supper date:

We have similar goals right now (sounds odd doesn't it, but it's true!) and are supporting each other the only way we know how - texting!! She told me she'll be getting glasses soon - can't wait to see what you get girl!! ;-)

Recently, I took a mini-holiday and went off to Regina for a few days. Spent some time with friends and was able to connect to a long lost university classmate which was really nice. I was surprised by some things that happened - but surprises are good sometimes so there is nothing wrong with that! I noticed my new girls (kittens) grew tons in the few days that I was gone! Funny how they grow every day but you don't see it til one day they are full sized cats!

Hopefully as my life settles down into a routine again, I will find the time to post a little more often! Now it's back to a regular work schedule and trying to get all the Fall yard work done in preparation for the winter we all know is coming!! Enjoy these lovely days while they last!

FINALLY I can share...

2008-08-21T16:20:00.006-06:00

My BFF got the package I sent her so I can finally show you a couple of the projects I mentioned that I had been working on.

First is this baby blanket:

overall pattern
close-up of "web" stitch

And second is an altered keepsake box that I thought she might want to use to hold a baby book, photos and it's even big enough for baby's first outfit!

Front (lid)

Spine

Inside left for photo and right with pocket for keepsakes/cards/birth announcement

Close up of left photo mount

So even though I have not accomplished much during my summer holidays, I wanted to share with you items I had hinted at before!! Thanks for looking!

Days Have Officially Run Together

2008-08-11T12:24:00.007-06:00

I guess that's what happens when you get out of your routine!

So rather then trying to tell you all of what has been going on, I'll just say my beautiful BFF has finally had her baby (August 4) and it's a GIRL! I am so happy for her and her great husband! Here is a lovely photo of her - please help her welcome Carlee Grace to the world:

Somehow BFF's always know just what you need to hear and today she sent me this terrific email:

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day,drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter 'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.''Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.' What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile! 'But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life. After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned: THIS SAYS IT ALL:

Time passes.

Life happens.

Distance separates.

Children grow up.

Jobs come and go.

Love waxes and wanes.

Men don't do what they're supposed to do.

Hearts break.

Parents die.

Colleagues forget favors.

Careers end.

BUT.........Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach. When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out. Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life! The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other. Every day, we need each other still. Pass this onto all the women who help make your life meaningful. I just did.

Short and very sweet: There are more than twenty angels in this world. Ten are peacefully sleeping on clouds. Nine are playing. And one is reading this right now.

Congratulations My Friend. May God Bless you and lend a hand in your new journey. I love and miss you.

Days 9 &10 One album, done

2008-08-03T23:07:00.005-06:00

Busy creating this 12x12 scrapbook for a 50th wedding anniv this weekend. Got it done Sat pm - just in time for today's festivities.... a good time was had by all and the celebratory couple really seemed to like their book. I'm very glad!! I had some nice compliments today about the dress I was wearing and here is a photo of me and the MC at the anniversary celebration. (It is his parents who were celebrating their 50th!)

Days 6, 7, & 8 - Somebody let me off this ride!!

2008-07-30T22:58:00.003-06:00

Just crazy busy - integrating kittens into our household routine; doctor appointment about my knee (again!); physio appointment to get a knee brace; tidying the house in time for company; getting asked to make 50 cards asap (yeah, I know 50!! Is the guy crazy??); trying to get another "secret gift" completed (which I did get done yesterday - now I just have to prep it and get it into the mail off to its rightful recipient); starting a new project that I have to get done by this weekend (yikes!); shopping for the afternoon with our guest (awe..... it's Ian's cousin - does he STILL count as a guest??); and just trying to get by on only a few hours of sleep (don't know why but I can't seem to sleep more than 4-5 hours a night as of late!). And then of all things I received this in an email from my dad this evening - just what I needed to be reminded of:

There are two days in every week about which we should not worry.
Two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension.

One of these days is yesterday,
with its mistakes and cares,
its faults and blunders,
its aches and pains.
Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control.
All the money in the world cannot bring back yesterday.
We cannot undo a single act we performed.
We cannot erase a single word we said.
Yesterday is gone!

The other day we should not worry about is tomorrow,
with its possible adversities,
its burdens,
its large promise and poor performance.
Tomorrow is beyond our immediate control.
Tomorrow's sun will rise,
whether in a splendor or behind a mask of clouds.
But it will rise, until it does we have no stake in tomorrow, for it is yet unborn.

This leaves only one day:
Today.
Any man can fight the battles of just one day.
It is when you and I add the burdens
of two awful eternities - yesterday and tomorrow,
that we break down.
It is not necessarily the experience of today
that disturbs one's peace of mind.

It is often time the bitterness for something which happened yesterday

and the dread of what tomorrow may bring.
Let us therefore live one day at a time.

Thanks dad for reminding me of this!!

Day 5- Slowly but surely!

2008-07-25T20:37:00.006-06:00

Well, today started off about 2 hours earlier than I thought - my sneaky old man cat must have stood on my alarm clock during the night as when I woke it read 10:05 and once I bumbled my way out to the kitchen to begin the feeding process, I saw the kitchen clock which read only 8:05. The little SNEAK!! Oh well, love him anyways!! So I guess that got my day off to an earlier start than I intended but that's okay as I FINISHED one of my SECRET PROJECTS today!! Yippee! now that one can get stroked off the list and I can move onto the next...... sorry tho' it's still a secret... you never know who's reading your blog and it's a surprise so I don't want to spoil it!! Besides that, it was an "awful allergy" day!! Sneezing and snuffling all day - but what's a girl to do? So I went on about the usual business of the day - a couple loads of laundry, some tidying, popped a few things in the mail, and stopped off and had a nice visit with my mom this afternoon. Pizza for supper, evening chores and here I am - updating my blog and sharing with you a few pictures of "the girls":

Window seats - best in the house!

Chaos napping in the crate.

Calamity kicking back in the kittie tent.

Snuggled together on the top of their cat tree.

(Great place for an afternoon nap!)

Chaos (standing), & Calamity (laying) atop their sunny perch!

Day 4 - More of the same...

2008-07-25T08:18:00.003-06:00

So once again I was too pooped to jot anything down last night but my day yesterday basically followed the same pattern of the days before... with just a few differences. Physio in the morning where she re-taped my knee and taught me how to do it so I can (hopefully!) continue my exercises pain free over the next little while. I hopped off to one of the LSS that I don't visit very often and was able to get some interesting things there - some beautiful wine themed papers and some flowers and some brand new kitten and puppy papers! Spent more than I planned but isn't that usually the case when I go to any SS? LOL!
At home I worked on some custom made cards - an order of 10 with a specific theme, plus a couple of western cards - waaaayyyyy overdue. Do you know how difficult it is to scrap with kitties trying to help?? Anyway, just glad to get them all done! Ian even helped by using my Cricut for the letters while I worked on the other bits! Later I kept working on that special project and I am really close to being done. It will feel great to get that crossed off my list too!

Day 3 - A Little of Everything

2008-07-24T09:33:00.003-06:00

Too tired to write last night so just a quick bit about yesterday. It was a day to catch up on correspondence and bills. I sorted papers, filled out reimbursement forms (thank goodness for a great health plan!!) paid bills and answered emails. In between it was kittie socialization, a quick visit from Ian's mom, and a SUPER surprise gift drop off from my friend, Greg's' daughter, Sam - Cinniminies straight from Edmonton!! She's going to school there in the fall and sounds like she has found herself a fabulous place to live close to campus and everything a girl could want! I finished up all the household laundry and made HUGE progress on my little "surprise" - sorry - can't show you yet!! I took the tape off my knee and realized how much difference it made - the aching pain was back shortly after so I'll have to learn how to tape it myself! Chatted with a couple of friends in the evening and it was off to bed for me! Not exciting but another day of holiday spent itself in the blink of an eye.

Day 2 - the best of well laid plans!

2008-07-22T21:12:00.002-06:00

Unfortunately no scrapping today - general house tidying; load after load of laundry; time well spent playing with kittens and giving pats to cats and dog; a few minutes spent enjoying my back yard; lots of another craft project- ssshhhhh.... it's a secret until it's all done then I'll show you what I'm working on!! Tonight a quick chat with sis, dad and mom; dishes and other regular chores; tidying my scrap table in preparation for scrapping and finally one more hour til bed time..... g'nite all.

Day 1 of Summer holidays

2008-07-21T23:26:00.003-06:00

Physio at 10 am - my knee is taped to see if that helps minimize the pain and give me more pain-free, mobility; followed by a visit to the in-laws; then errands; stopping by at one of the LSS quickly to see how it is now that they've moved into a bigger space; grocery shopping and having my mom over for supper - BBQ main course then cheesecake topped with Cassis wine from Elephant Island Vineyards in B.C. (one of the only fruit vineyards!!) - Delish!! Ian walked the dog after supper and played "laser tag" with the older cats. It was funny watching my mom enjoy the new little girls and their antics! You would have thought they put on a show just for her!! Some laundry and now off to bed in clean sheets with a plan to scrap a lot tomorrow!!

Funny how things happen that make you wonder....

2008-07-20T08:52:00.013-06:00

So my girl has been gone just 2 weeks now and it has been an incredibly hectic time for me. Besides being very sad at times, I have found it difficult to be out in my yard. It's hard not to picture her there. It doesn't help that we've also had tons of rain which isn't very motivating and at times just seems to echo my sadness. It's hard to lose a pet - they are friends and family members; and many people don't seem to understand that so it's hard sometimes to know who to share your thoughts with. I'm Blessed as my family does understand and I have lots of support from Ian who also misses his little black girl. In fact one day this week he insisted that I went out to see something in the yard.....
these beautiful lilies are growing in the spot where Squeaker used to lay in the flowerbed. Ian said she left them there for me. To be honest, I knew they were growing there but I just did not expect them to be so pretty - I do not recall them blooming like this last year, either. For me this just confirms that getting a garden stone memorial made was the right thing to do. Funny how things happen that make you wonder.....

Anyway, there are lots of other things to focus on which has really helped me over the past few weeks as well. First there is my friend, Patti's, new baby - arriving soon I am hoping!! For her shower which I could not attend (she lives in B.C.) I created this adorable Diaper Cake. I had never made one before..... but now I can share the photos with you as the shower has come and gone....

They have chosen a marine theme - thus the little anchors on the booties and the fish bath book and fishie teether. Ian was a great help rolling diapers and baby jumpers and I think he even had a good time shopping for all the baby stuff with me! It was a lot of work, but I am so happy with how this turned out!! And I know Patti was happy to get it (even if the second layer wasn't quite hanging together!!) I have a couple more things I am working on for her... just hope I can get everything done before baby comes as it seems to me I am always running behind these days!!

And speaking of fun things..... I want to introduce you to some "little furry people" - formerly known at Gianna and Gwynn - now known as Chaos and Calamity (Jane):

Calamity

Chaos

Calamity

Chaos

Calamity (left) & Chaos (right) in their temporary "integration" room -

wanting to climb out - and yes, they really do CLIMB!!

Chaos (facing left) & Calamity (facing right) Exploring the houseBasement ceiling looks like a fun hiding place!

No FEAR kittens are here!

What better time to have new kittens in the mix then on my summer holidays.... I bet they will make scrapbooking FUN!! :-)

Sorry I've been MIA!

2008-07-06T11:49:00.004-06:00

There's a real sense about having priorities and as my cat became more ill I made her my priority! In this technological age I put most everything else on hold - my emails, phone calls and correspondence of all kinds. One thing we can never get back is TIME - so in her last days we spent lots of time sitting in the yard in the evening as this became her favourite place to be. I think it was the only thing she looked forward to near the end. And yes, right now I feel "behind" and have the consequence of having postponed so many things that now I am scrambling to deal with - but I can never get those last days back - so for the choices I made, I am grateful.

She seemed to have been having some really nice days right near the end - even though I knew as the days wore on she was weakening and required more pain medication. It was also more and more difficult to get her interested in food - so we cooked her chicken and pork chops and fish that she loved. We gave her broth made from duck to make her pain medication go down a little easier. And if you were to ask me if I'd do it all over again - I'd say yes. She was one of my kids - just in a fur coat.

Friday July 4th Ian found her lying close to the litter box - not on her usual mat or in her tent. She was in such pain she barely wanted to move. I stayed home from work, and made an appointment with the vet clinic. I sat with her in the yard in the morning as the minutes ticked past - I petted her and told her how much I loved her and how good a kitty she'd always been. I told her she wouldn't feel any more pain and that she'd get to see her Bootsie brother. I sat by the pond and she lay in the sun beside me and showed me her belly wanting a rub, one last time.

No crate required for this car ride. I held her one my lap and rolled down the window so she could smell all those lovely outdoor scents of the morning. At the clinic she sat on my lap - she did not cry or act afraid. I think she just wanted not to be in pain anymore. Our kind vet talked to her and gave us some time to say good bye. He stayed to the end to make sure she passed quickly and he told us we were doing the right thing. "Too many owners", he said, "leave their pets in pain for too long. The suffering is not nice."

While I do not want her cremains back, I do want her body to be treated respectfully so I asked for her to be taken to Family Pet where my father-in-law works. I know he will take good care of her little body. With tears in our eyes and sadness in our hearts we left the clinic - having to say goodbye to an old friend is one of life's most difficult times.

For every pet I've had pass on, I have a little memorial- for one it's a marble cat sculpture; for another it's a heart-shaped pendent with wings and a crystal tear drop. For her, I wanted a piece for my garden. That is where I think I will remember her best. We stopped at a couple of places and when I could not find what I wanted, I went where I could have it custom made. I ordered a stepping stone with a stained glass cat on it - some leaves or flowers around the border. I chose the colours of the glass for her dark fur and her beautiful eyes. We chose the pose - one that closely resembles her ticked off look if you stopped petting and she did not think it was time to be done! It will be beautiful - and can easily be moved into the house through the winter months.

It will be a while until I get it, but that's okay. The wait will be worth it - and maybe a bit of the sadness I feel will be soothed by then.

I miss my little girl - she will always hold a piece of my heart in her paws. Love you my girl.

Crazy busy me!

2008-06-25T19:38:00.005-06:00

I'm busy busy right now - many things on the go at work and counting down to my summer vacation!! Yipee! Last day of work is July 18th - with no plans except to laze about, take pictures and scrap! That said it has been a bit of a difficult month here and I'm waaayyyyy behind on many projects that I hoped to be doing or have finished by now! Just trying not to stress about things and enjoy simple things as they come along.

For instance, there was a crop this past weekend on Scrappy and saw that they posted a really fun, challenging photo hunt - so Ian and I went out late in the day on Saturday and tried to capture as many photos for the hunt as we could. What was great about this is that not only did it give us something to do together but it got us off our butts and outside - enjoying the weather and the mixture of people and events going on in the city at that time. I love living here so much - and it's such a pretty city that I sometimes forget to stop and really take a look around - and this photo hunt was a great opportunity to do that! Eventually it resulted in a layout with photos of some of my favourite places:

Of course lately I feel as though everything is an uphill battle but that's just way of life isn't it? For instance last Thursday I was supposed to have a crown put on a tooth and the dental equipment wasn't working quite right so all they could do was put on a temp crown..... and then 4 days later (Monday) it came off - so back to the dentist I went yesterday to have yet another temp crown put on..... and next week I return again to have the permanent one put on!

Even though things aren't terrific I will say that I am glad my pets are seeming to be doing better as it has been a hard time for them too. Nathan's upper respiratory is much better and he's almost done his meds; Shumi's hot spots are healing nicely and the staph infection seems to have cleared up and he is also almost done his meds: and, well, I'm glad for every day that my girl is able to eat something to keep her skinny body going, and that she chooses to sit with me. purr and head-but me as I know there won't be that many of those days left. I'm trying to enjoy those moments while I can, even when I am preoccupied with other aspects of my life.

On a scrappy note, I got my order of CTMH stamps from Melissa the other day and even though I haven't played with them much I just just their designs! Can't wait to really have some fun with these!! As well, I have continued to move ahead in the Miss Scrappy contest and completed these 2 layouts for rounds 3 and 4:

Round five could be a little more challenging as I've a few idea but nothing too concrete about what I am going to do!! It's all for fun anyway and these ladies come up with the neatest challenges - I love it on their site!

That's it for now - lots to do tonight and a weekend of scrapping to think about so I better get tidying my scrap room!!

SNR Publication

2008-06-14T20:01:00.006-06:00

So about this time last week I hinted for your to come back for more information about my scrapping life! I am happy to say that Scrapbook News and Review asked for all three of the pet layouts that I submitted to their pub call. This publication came out today and is a step in the direction that I want to go with my scrapping! SNR is a by-subscription-only E-magazine, so if you don't subscribe you won't be able to see which ones I submitted so here they are:

(Shumi, Boots, Squeak, Puss-puss)

(Puss-puss)

(Squeak)

If you've read my most recent post, you will know that this wonderful feline (the one in the pink and black layout) was just diagnosed with cancer. I am happy that this publication is out now, as I have been able to "share" with my Squeaker-girl, that she has affected many lives - not just mine; and that she's out there for all the world to see the way I see her. I will miss her greatly when her time is up.

Friday the Thirteenth.....

2008-06-13T07:23:00.005-06:00

It has been a difficult week here at our place and I'm just relieved Friday is finally here. My little black girl (see photos of her in my previous entry) has been sick-sick-sick - losing weight and unable to keep much food down. The first ultra-sound showed a tumor, the second revealed two tumors; one abdominal and one intestinal. The biopsy results came back yesterday - she has cancer. No matter if you expect the worst or hope for the best - whenever the word cancer comes up, it can't be good.

I have talked with my vet, who is one of the kindest, most compassionate people I've ever met. He understands that when people walk into his office with a pet that is ill, he must administer to both the pet and the the owner. In my experience, there are few vets who truly understand this. He has always been up front with me and knows that I want his professional opinion as well as his personal one. He listed all the options - another ultrasound to get more information, surgery to remove the tumors, no surgery and pain management until it's her time. After learning what kind of cancer she has, weighing our options, taking into account her age and other factors, I know in my heart that the last option is the best one.

For now, she is happy - still head butting and "squeaking" for cuddles and attention. Still grooming herself (and others), purring when petted and smacking the dog on the nose when he's in her space. She comes to kitchen when it's meal time (hers or ours) and waits for tidbits from the counter or table - knowing full well she'll never be denied. And even though I have to feed her very small pieces a few times throughout the day to help her keep her food down, she's still my sweet girl cat. I will keep on with this for all the days we have left together - until she shows me she's in discomfort - and then I will leave the rest in God's hands. Some things never change - my love for her is one of them.

Thank you to those who have listened and helped through the last week of tests and waiting things out. Your support and heartfelt kindness is truly appreciated.

One RAK's Winners Layout!

2008-06-08T09:25:00.010-06:00

If you remember back around the beginning of May, I gave away a couple of RAK's to celebrate National Scrapbook Day. Cheryl, the winner of the first RAK, has been kind enough to share with me the great layout she made and I just have to share it with you all so here's a link to her blog! Please go check it out - it's a great layout and this lady knows how to use a camera!

For other interesting information, I've added a new favourite place to visit and it's great for anyone who wants to get their work published as they continually update a list of places that are looking for submissions - otherwise called "Pub Calls" - which is also the name of their blog! So if that's the route you are heading be sure to check them out!

And speaking of getting published, I just had a little good news about a week ago - but you'll have to wait another week before I tell ya so be sure to check back this time next week!!

More scrapping news: there's this fun contest going on at Sassy Scrappers and of course I just HAD to jump in and be part of it! It's being run in rounds and there will be eliminations after each challenge. The REAL challenge for me is only having 5 days to complete a challenge! I know that doesn't sound hard but working all day just zaps my energy and lots of time I just don't feel like I want to do much in the evening. (A big part of that is the knee thing - but more on that later!) Anyway, the first challenge was to interview someone and include part of that interview on a layout, so I interviewed my gal pal Kaleah and my finished product looks like this:

(Okay so it doesn't look as good on paper as it did in my head, and it IS a little out of my comfort zone with it's all-over-busy-ness, but I'm still happy enough with the results...... and I didn't get eliminated so that's a good thing. Actually no one was eliminated this round so it's not such a big deal!! LOL!!)

As for other things around here - well not much changes day-to-day. The good thing is we did manage to get the cats' bedroom reno done in just over a week - new paint flooring, closet shelves - the works! I think they like it a lot better - and I KNOW I do as it's much easier to clean the lino then it was to deal with the carpet that was in there. I'm still trying to see if I can get some good photos of their room at night - as the flooring glows in the dark (no I'm NOT kidding!) but so far no luck! Here are a few pictures - starting just after ripping the carpet out - see the pretty tiles? - and then the painting and finished flooring - with a happy? cat!

Actually, I think they are pleased now as it's clean and fresh and they have new beds and new toys. Ian even built a little bed base for the large heated pad they have as we did not know if it would discolour the lino because the heated bed does get quite warm underneath! Who doesn't want to come back reincarnated as one of my cats? They even get their own room with beds, toys, a tree, scratching posts, a circulating watering bowl, pictures on the walls and a window view!!

Glad that is all done as my knee is still really bugging me and it was hard to be up and down on the little step stool to do the painting! Anyway, I'm going to see a surgeon on the 19th and learn what he has to say about it and what might be done. Until then I'll just do the best I can and hope that it gets better on its own! Yup, the 19th will be a great day here - also going to the dentist to get a crown put on. YUK!!

That's it from here for now - wishing you all a restful Sunday!!

Dogs BIG Adventure!

2008-05-29T10:43:00.006-06:00

The night before last, someone hopped over our fence and went through the shed we have in the back yard. Thankfully we don't have much (if anything!!) of value in there!! However, they did trample a little of Ian's veggie garden (he's not happy about that) and stepped on a piece of decorative fencing bending it over. They also did not bother to close the gate when they left.....

so in the morning Ian took me to work like usual and then headed home to do some work and painting the finishing trim for the basement bedroom out in the garage - when he hears the familiar click-click of doggie tags on a collar so he looks up and sees Shumi coming around the end of the back yard fence heading to his favourite front yard tree! He called Shumi who came only to the edge of the garage; and knew not to bother to chase the dog so just watched him as Shumi got to go THREE whole houses away on his big adventure! Of course THEN he yelled for Shumi to come (which he did, thank goodness!) and Shumi went and sat on the font door step waiting for Ian to let him in the house. We are sooooooo lucky!! He could have been looongggg gone and we'd never know it..... so now we have padlocks on our gates that open from the inside and if someone wants to come over the fence they'll be leaving the same way!!

I absolutely count my Blessings when Ian told me this after I got home from work! Glad dog is fine and is no worse for wear from his little jaunt!!

It's only Tuesday.... but I'm ready for Friday!!

2008-05-27T20:48:00.003-06:00

As you know from my last post, we are now into some renovations so last night after work it was a second coat of paint; and today it was off to pick up a few more odds and ends to keep working on the job. I must say Ian did a great deal of work on the room today so we now need to do another coat of paint in the closet and on the doors and trims, let the cement floor sealer dry, lay the underlay and then lay the fiber floor lino. Of course then it's putting on trim and doors and covers and switch plates and wiping everything down before moving the cats back in - but they are gonna be some HAPPY cats when this is all over!! A lovely fresh, new blue room!

I have to admit, that did take over my scrapping life for the time being and all I managed to get done over the weekend was to give my craft room a proper clean and sorting! I have found some more challenges on Sassy that sound like fun so hope to get involved in those in the next few days. As well, I'm in the running for the title of "Miss Sassy" - a 6 week scrapping event. I'm sure to be eliminated along the way but it's all for the fun and friendship so I am quite looking forward to it! Also, my LSS is having a great sale on everything in the store so it's off to spend money there in the next day or so! (Like I need to spend more money on scrapping supplies?!LOL!)

On the bright side, we have FINALLY settled with SGI and although I am not 100% pleased with the outcome.... it is a HUGE relief to have it over and done with. One less thing to think about and all that!

Anyway, lucky me - tomorrow is only a 1/2 day for me at work as I have an eye appointment followed by a dental cleaning appt in the afternoon. Not that I look forward to those things but they are the necessities of life and sometimes any reason is a good reason NOT to be at work!!

I also want to drop a note of Congrats to new (again) mom Lisa and welcome baby Samuel into the world! Cannot wait to go see him!! The photos she emailed me are adorable!

Time flies when you're having FUN?

2008-05-26T08:26:00.007-06:00

Sorry it's been way over a week since my last post. There is just lots going on at the moment ans it's been hard to keep caught up with everything. In fact, I just realized this weekend that I was late paying some bills - which is just NOT like me!!

So I have been to the dentist and the root canal is done - now I go back in a few weeks to have the cap/crown put on. The root canal itself wasn't painful - just the after effects of having to hold my jaw open for that long and the swelling that took a few days to disappear! Believe it or not the worst of it was the wait to have the root canal done in the first place - not being able to really eat or drink anything that was either hot or cold because of the huge increase in sensitivity in that tooth! Yikes! But now it's feeling pretty good so I'm VERY happy about that!

Health wise, I have also made my first trip to the physiotherapist and she confirmed what my family doctor said. That I likely have a tear in the meniscus and will need surgery. Luckily, my family doctor went ahead and made a referral to a orthopaedic surgeon and I already have an appointment scheduled in June! YEAH ME! In any case, I am trying to do my physio exercises (without pain) and that's not going so well for me as i wake up with pain and of course, at the end of my work day it's usually worse - not better! So I'll just keep at it and go from there!

On the long weekend Ian's cousin came from up from Regina for a couple of days and we had a really nice visit with him. I decided to start putting out my garden ornaments and got a little of that done. As we don't really plan to travel anywhere for summer holidays this year we decided to spend some money and do a little more work on our back yard. We purchased a new gazebo and new patio furniture this spring and were able to get that all set up on the long weekend too!

I bought some bedding plants and still need to pick up a few perennials as some of mine did not winter well and haven't poked their heads up yet so I think they aren't coming! That said, Ian did get our small vegs. garden planted and there are a few things starting to show up there too!

Anyway, I had hope to get the rest of my plants in the ground this past weekend but that didn't work out either. Saturday the weather was fine but "life" took over and Sunday - it was a bit chilly and blah here so I wasn't too motivated to go outside; never mind that I already had lots on my plate inside the house! Saturday morning I was cleaning my scrap space (hoping to get some pages done for another online crop!) when Ian got up and let the dog in. As neither of us were really paying attention, the dear dog decided to go downstairs and pee everywhere. You see, before we moved into this house, the previous owners had a dog that must have been kept downstairs a lot as we already know there is quite a bit of stain and damage to the carpets in the basement; and our dog thinks this is an okay thing to do - mark and cover up the old pet smells. To say the neither Ian or I were happy but we know this is really our fault and not the dog's sooooooo we decided rather then clean the rug we would begin tearing some of it out!

We started in the "cat's bedroom" and took out all their furniture - beds, litter boxes, toys, food, and all the things that we had stored in the closet. Then we pulled out the carpet in sections and began scraping the underlay off the floor. There are tiles on the cement - which I suspect are asbestos based, so we were careful not to do much to them except scrape them clean. Then it was off to the store for paint and closet shelving as well as some other bits and pieces......

Already Wednesday!

2008-05-14T16:19:00.006-06:00

I intended to update my blog after getting home from the doc on Monday but just never got around to it and then had bits and pieces of my "after work life" to take care of last night so that bring us to now!

I was off to the dentist Monday morning to learn that I have an infected tooth which they are currently treating with antibiotics - until Friday morning when I go for a root canal. Even the sound of those words is so awful it makes me cringe so I don't even want to begin to think about what it's going to feel like!! But really, can it be worse then the pain I've had in my mouth for the past 2 weeks while I waited to get to see a dentist?

Of course Monday afternoon I headed to the doctor's office only to find that he thinks I've torn my "meniscus" (part of the knee towards the inside of the leg) in my left leg. We are hopeful that physio might relieve it along with time to heal but in the long run it might mean surgery. Oh joy.

I did not know it was mandatory that I begin falling apart at this time in my life but it seems that is just the way it is!

Other then those 2 things life is pretty smooth - still waiting to settle our vehicle claim from the t-bone accident a couple of months ago and had to take our "new" vehicle back to the place that certified it for Sask. in order to get the axles replaced at no cost - but those things will come as they are meant to and one day soon we will a rally great running vehicle and it will be at least somewhat paid for by the SGI claim. (See? I really am trying to find the silver lining!!)

Anyway, here are the 2 RAK's that I drew for a week or so ago and I will be popping them in the mail tomorrow or Friday (or "Root Canal day" as I have been calling !!)
First RAK:

Second RAK:

Hope you ladies will enjoy these goodies when they arrive!!

That's all for today - off to make some cards and do a little bit of scrapping if I can fit it in before supper!

Waking up to GREAT things!

2008-05-10T10:49:00.001-06:00

Hey all, I am the featured scrapbook artist of the week on Robin's BLOG!! Check it out!!

Crummy days!

2008-05-07T19:59:00.004-06:00

You ever have one of those absolutely crummy days where nothing goes right - and then you have an ah-ha moment about how to change your view? Well, here's my day: a cat who has not recovered from a tooth extraction that was done Monday - she still isn't eating, her face is puffed out like a balloon and one eye won't dialate properly; and I think I must be having sympathy pains for her as I also am having tooth pain! Plus I just found out my new-to-me-vehicle needs another $2000 in repairs (axles) and I've yet to settle with the insurance claim on my old vehicle from being run into several weeks ago. Big time bummer right? Well, my turning point is thanks to all of you who left such nice comments on my last post and whose names all got entered into a draw for an RAK that I have. You are all GREAT and gave me the smiles I needed to feel a little better about my current situation and I THANK YOU for that from the bottom of my heart!! And because of that I think I will do TWO RAK drawings. Yup, you heard right - TWO!

So I've put all your names into a container and (drum roll pleaseeeeee......) just had DH draw one and the first one goes to ................. Cheryl (WeScrap)!! Yeaahhhhhhh Cheryl.

And the second one goes to.......... Scrapper in my spare time (Sassy Scrappers). Woo-hoooooo Scrapper!

You ladies will be hearing from me shortly and I am quite sure you'll be happy with your packages!! Once I have everything together, I'll post a couple of pictures here so everyone can see what you've won!

To the rest of you ladies - sorry Lady Luck wasn't with you tonight! You are all great people and I am so glad you stopped by my blog! I know I will be continuing to check out those of you who blog and I hope you will pop back and take a peek at what I have been doing every so often too! Thanks for all your sincere comments and warm thoughts! See you around the site!!

Too Busy Scrappin'

2008-05-01T17:35:00.010-06:00

Sorry I've not been in the chatting mood lately - just trying to do too many different things at once! I wanted to leave lots of love in the gallery at iScrap to add to my points over there PLUS it was scrapping mania all month at Sassy Scrappers who had tons of fabulous challenges and lots of fun things going on for their grand opening!

I have to admit in amongst all of that I've been terribly busy at work - including teacher office renovations - moving everything out and back into our workroom space, high counts of youth so we are constantly full, some new course developing, lots of marking and just the regular daily routine! I finally recognized that I needed a few days to myself to re-group and re-fresh so I used some holiday days and stayed by myself in my scrap room for three days!! What a great feeling - and I got lots accomplished too! It doesn't say "Caution - scrappin's happenin'!" on the door for no reason!!

I am super glad I did take a few days off as my weekend took on a life of its own when my brother called Saturday morning to see if he could come for an overnight stop on his trip from Edmonton to Estevan! I arranged for a family brunch the next and day and we had a great evening and morning spending time with him! It was completely unexpected and it was a real TREAT to see him and have a little catch-up visit!! Hopefully we will get another chance to visit him and his family sometime soon (hint!hint!)!!

Anyway here are a few of my more favourite layouts that I have been meaning to get to and finally did during my cropping days. This one shows me over many years and it's quite significant to my life as it talks about how I always knew I wanted to be a counselor, then how futile that seemed after I convocated, and finally it is about my present situation and how some days I question why I have chosen this path - and it's simply to help "1 kid at a time".

This is me and my BFF Patti - a photo that was taken last year:

Here is one of my absolute favourite photos of my oldest cat, Puss-Puss - he truly is a treasure and puts s smile on my face everyday!

And here is Shumi playing in our yard about a year ago. The journaling on this layout is very important to me as it talks about his epilepsy and how I did not even know dogs could have epilepsy until I got him - and even with that, "I still choose you". He's a great part of my family too!

Now, here is a layout about my Aunt Carol who was a godsend when Ian was in the hospital in Edmonton just over 2 years ago:

And finally - just a couple of views of a really cute paper bag book I created using a great new line of papers and some photos from a trip to Edmonton for Klondike days!

NSD (National SCrapbooking Day) is coming up this weekend and to honour that and my love of scrapping I have a little RAK I want to give away. Just leave a comment in this post and I will enter your name in a draw for some great papers and embellies! Hopefully you've enjoyed a little glimpse into my world of scrapping! Have a fab scrapping weekend!!

Things you don't want to Wake Up to in April!

2008-04-19T10:55:00.005-06:00

Never Enough Hours in the Day!

2008-04-14T19:44:00.007-06:00

There just never seems to be enough time to catch up and do all the things I want and HAVE to do!! Are you a list maker? I am. Not just a list here and there either.... a Palm with a to do as long as your arm, pieces of paper - sometimes for a day, sometimes for a week, sometimes one at work then another at home for me, then hubby's list, and of course the never ending errands and grocery list. WHEN DOES IT STOP?

Anyway, thanks for indulging me as that was my rant for the day. I guess I am somewhat (partly?) regretful that I did not get the house cleaning done yesterday as I should have (even though I did get caught up on the laundry) - instead I hung around the house in my pj's and scrapped my day away. I came up with these 2 layouts, some little gift containers and a few cards.....

The stitching around the outside is all done by hand....

and now this one is about my gal-pal Kels - there's always a place for her in my heart:

Finally here is a clear card made from a transparency and a little gift box that I made using my Cricut. I filled it with candy and gave it as a thank you for a co-worker who really helped out last week!

So I encourage you to put away your list just for one day and give yourself the time and opportunity to play! You'll never know what you'll come up with.... hey.... maybe you'll do a layout ABOUT your lists... or better yet, about IGNORING THEM for a whole day, or.....

(at least now I can cross this off my list!!LOL!!)

Sassy Ladies

2008-04-07T18:17:00.007-06:00

The ladies on Sassy Scrappers are a great group. Warm and welcoming. All this month they are hosting their "grand opening" crop - lots of great prizes and fun challenges. Here's a layout I did from a sketch on their site:

Of course you KNEW it would have a cat or a dog in it didn't you? I love these photos of my curious cat!!

And thanks Valerie for your nice comment in my last post! (She's one of those nice Sassy ladies I mentioned above!)

Anyway, Ian's working again tonight which gives me plenty of quiet evening time to scrap myself silly so that's what my plans are for the evening. What are you doing?

Before I sign off - just a special hello and a wish for a totally terrific birthday to Kels! I miss you girl!

Take care and enjoy your evening - no matter what you choose to do!

Quick note

2008-04-03T19:14:00.003-06:00

So far we've had two cats to the vet this week! About $350 later in vet bills Ive got a cat on meds for upper respiratory (he has no teeth and was drooling all over the house prior to getting him on meds so this is much better now that most of the drooling has stopped!); and one that we thought was going to have a tooth pulled but just ended up getting them cleaned. Who knew tarter bacteria could cause such oral problems? She lost almost 2.5 lbs in 4 months so now we are hoping she'll resume a normal eating pattern and my household might settle down a bit!

The cats aren't the only ones who were in for check-ups - Ian and I went to the doc today for prescription refills and although Ian's got a little too much weight going on around the middle ( I'm sure he'll lose it again come summer and outdoor activity) everything seems pretty normal with us... if yo can call either of us normal!

I am finding these days that I need a break from work. Not sure just when or how it's going to happen but for my own sanity and the safety of the children involved (LOL!) it might be best if the time out came sooner rather then later!

Besides that there are a couple of neat things going on at iscrap and sassy scrappers through the month of April so I am hoping to get involved with those a bit! And this weekend we are going to do a nice dinner thing (Ian's choice cause it was his birthday a few days ago) so I am looking forward to that. Tomorrow's Friday and in my world there are NO BAD Fridays so everyone enjoy and start your countdown clocks to the weekend!

I had NO idea .....

2008-04-02T08:43:00.004-06:00

Surprise to me this morning when I checked out my fav scrapping sites - one of my pages is the layout of the day over on http://www.iscrap.net/! Big Surprise to me! Check it out - it should be up until midnight tonight!

I guess this makes up for not making it onto the DT I applied for!!

Hectic week = no Blogging!

2008-03-28T22:27:00.002-06:00

I still don't know just where the week went and I think somehow I am further behind then ever!! With it being year end at my job, sometimes there's a little money left that needs to be spent on very short notice so I was able to get some teaching supplies and new books for the kids to read. I've been to nearly every teacher and/or book store in the city this week (mostly on my own time!) and have spent every cent of the budget I was given! I was surprised to get very poor service at one of the major bookstores - especially given that I order a large number of books from them nearly every year! I actually ended up ordering books on-line at a competing store because I had no assistance in finding the titles I wanted at the store here! But now it's allll good! The last of the books should arrive early next week, I have some new teaching supplies for some of my low-end readers, some new novels for pleasure reading and a few nice posters top brighten up the space! All in all a tiring - but successful - week!!

I do have to say that it's been a slow scrapping week - or should I say month now that March is almost over? This week I did get one altered project done but I can't tell you about it really or even show you as it's a gift and I don't want to spoil the surprise...Shhhhhh........

I am pleased that I got some "computer" work done this week - sorting photos, resizing pictures for galleries, uploading to a few sites and so on. I suppose it just feels like I didn't accomplish much because I can't really see what I did - but somehow I know I was busy and didn't waste much time!!

Finally right after work today I took one of my cats into the vet as she has lost a lot of weight in the past 2 months and just doesn't seem to want to eat much. We found out she has a really bad tooth (so bad, in fact, that it's infected) so she'll be back to the vet next Thursday for surgery to remove it and for a blood workup to be sure there is nothing else wrong!

So this weekend I am just hoping for some R&R - a little down time - maybe a movie, a little scrapping if I feel like it, getting caught up on my email and changing a few bits on my blog, but for sure some house cleaning and tidying my scrap space to get ready for a month long crop at Sassy Scrappers. That ought to be a lot of fun and I am really looking forward to it!

Here's hoping you have a great weekend and find the time for a little of your own R&R!!

Life has its own Momentum!

2008-03-20T21:21:00.004-06:00

It's funny how some things take over your life with a speed and intensity of their own! Since being in a car accident just over two weeks ago, it seems there hasn't been a moment of rest. We have been out every evening after work, and all day on the weekends looking for a replacement vehicle - with all the questions that need to be answered - what kind, how much to spend, old versus new, what kind of motor, how many seats, towing capacity, mileage, and on, and on and on. Then there is the fact that being out every night means late suppers, gumpiness, and regular chores all going undone. None of which are pretty!!

I think we are over the major hurdle now because we settled on a vehicle today, agreed on a final price with the seller and picked it up after finishing the financing. The rest, as they say, is up to God. SGI will do what it needs regarding the write off payout, but for now we have regained some sense of control and have a vehicle that we are happy with! So here I am trying to get around to saying something halfway intelligent and perhaps witty for my blog entry - but my mind is a complete blank. Literally I am sitting here vegging out... I have almost caught up on my emails, my regular scrap forums and galleries, and think I am ready for bed .... so I won't keep you here - bored to tears....... instead I just ask you to count your Blessings and enjoy the Easter celebration and/or long weekend that lies ahead of you! Take Care and Drive Safe!!

Some Happy Inspiration

2008-03-13T14:49:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I received this gem of an email and I wanted to share it because it speaks volumes to me....

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.
3. Buy a DVR and tape your late night shows and get more sleep.
4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement,
'My purpose is to__________ today.'
5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6. Play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.
7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, and prayer.
They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Clear clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires,
issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn.
Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away
like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a
college kid with a maxed out charge card.
17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vampires away.
18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words:
'In five years, will this matter?'
26. Forgive everyone for everything.
27. What other people think of you is none of your business.
28. GOD heals almost everything.
29. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
30. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friend will. Stay in touch.
31. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
32. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
33. The best is yet to come.
34. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
35. Do the right thing!
36. Call your family often. (Or email them to death!!!)
37. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements:
I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished _________.
38. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
39. Enjoy the ride. Remember this is not Disney World and you certainly
don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life,
so make the most of it and enjoy the ride!

40. Please Forward this to everyone you care about.

Have a great Friday!

2008-03-12T20:28:00.003-06:00

Okey-dokey! I was tagged a while back (bet you thought I forgot didn't you Jemma?) on Jemma's blog. The tag is to use my middle name (or maiden name, for those of you who want to try but aren't blessed with a middle name!) and to come up with a descriptive word for each letter.... my middle name is Margaret... so here I go:

M - mathematically challenged - I mean I can get by, do the day to day stuff, balance the chequebook and pay bills, etc. but I'm no math major, in fact I often say my sister got all the logical/math genes and I got all the creative ones!!

A - animal lover - pretty much anything with four feet and a fur coat; granted, not so much into reptiles and bugs, but anything furry. As my hubbie would tell you I'm easily distracted, "Oh look, a kitty!"

R - I am totally a real redhead - not too fast to be angry, but when I'm ticked off - LOOK OUT! And I don't know if it is a red-head thing but I am stubborn too!

G - I have been told I have a gold-heart so I'm using that for G. I would do pretty much anything for anyone - and my friendship runs deep and I take it quite seriously - honouring my word and looking out for my pals!

A - (again "A") addicted - to organizing and anything artsy! I have always loved crafts of any sort - especially photography; and I am totally loving scrapbooking as a way to express myself through photos these days!

R - reader. What more can I say? I love a good book and read almost anything!

E - educator. I am doing what I know is the right things for me to do in my life. I love teaching anything - scrapbook related things, crafty things, stitching, sewing, cooking, etc. - and in my work life I teach English and Art to troubled 13-18 year olds - and I LOVE it!

T - tea drinker. Finally, I am a huge tea drinker. Love loose leaf teas, green teas, black teas, jasmine tea, many herbal varieties, and so on. I even have a little collection of tea pots to go with all my different teas!

So that's everything you wanted to know about me and more!! Finally I can cross this off my list (A - addicted to being organized) and go have a cup of tea (T) before reading (R) in bed for a while! Good night!!

New Layouts!!

2008-03-11T20:56:00.005-06:00

I think I mentioned in my last post that I was able to get a few layouts done this weekend. I love being involved in the online crops - don't have to pack everything up and go somewhere, can stop for a break whenever I want.... and I learned that there are a lot of ladies like me out there - they stay in their jammies all day when they crop at home too!! Gotta love that! Anyway, here are the layouts I got done..... hope you enjoy and thanks for looking!

Here's my mom at Thanksgiving:

One of my favourite places in the world - Takakkaw Falls in B.C. Gorgeous!!

My curious cat........and the first time I've used glitter on a layout! How fun is that?

My most senior cat - and the odd way he eats - one kibble at a time:

And finally, a double layout of Ian and Shumi at obedience classes in 2004.... Shumi got 91% on his final test.... not sure what Ian got!LOL!!

That's it for now! Wish us luck with SGI and our poor Jeep tomorrow!!

A Better Week

2008-03-11T06:25:00.007-06:00

I started off my last post saying that we weren't having a very good week at our house! First of all my hubbie got his T4 and it doesn't look like his workplace has been taking off enough tax so that is always a little surprise that no one needs!

As well one of our estimates came in for the fireplace reno's we are trying to do and it seems quite high to the both of us so we need to find another option. (We are thinking of asking hubbie's dad who does some fab woodwork, but aren't sure he'd have the time just now as he's re-doing his kitchen cupboards at the moment!)

And then there was this:

I know..... it doesn't look too bad...

And even from this angle, you'd think it's not bad.... unless you notice that the door is waaaayyy out at the top of the frame... and has been taped to reduce wind inside the Jeeep....

And here's the closeup... what can a Kia Rio do for you??

So, to say the least, we sustained some damage..... count my blessings I wasn't hurt as it was full impact on "my" side of the car. I am very lucky!!

The funny thing is that the driver who hit us lied to the police.... she said she had a green light and Ian failed to stop for her when he was turning left. A witness came forward stating that he saw the whole thing (he was coming up behind her) and that she did run the red .... so it looks like hubby might not get the ticket and have to pay damages. We'll know more this week. Thank goodness for strangers who are willing to get involved!!

It's funny how attached we get to things. This has been a great vehicle for us and we have finally paid it off.... only to wait and see if we need to finance a new one. SIGH! I guess SGI will tell us tomorrow after the assessment.

On the brighter side, I took an extra day off work to make it a long weekend and spent much of my time recovering (bumps, bruises and general shock, I think), and scrapping as it was another online scrap weekend at iscrap. I don't know that I "won" anything but it was fun all the same! And I did manage to get 5 layouts done (which I'll try to post here later today or tomorrow) and I played a few games, which is always fun too.

Just a note before I go! thanks to Lisa who always leaves such great notes on my blog! It's great to hear from anyone who wants to leave me a note!

One of Those Weeks!

2008-03-06T17:26:00.007-06:00

It hasn't been a great week this far and I am seriously hoping that spending the weekend participating in an on-line crop @ iscrap will cheer me up!! I thought I should kick off the "happy me" weekend by taking some photos of my scrap space and posting them because I LOVE my space and I wanted you to see where I will (hopefully!) be spending most of my weekend!!

Originally, we used this room as our office when we owned a business, but when we sold the business and no longer required an office space, I sort of took it over and it became our computer room and my scrapping room! This room is a actually a bedroom on the main floor of our house. It has a lovely large window but no direct sunlight, which is great. My scrap table (IKEA) has a built in light table which is awesome. The trays attached to the right hand legs swivel so it's a great place to store my everyday adhesives, and small tools. I have 2 large blue boxes that sit underneath the table - full of my 12x12 papers - they are organized by colours and one box is solids while the other is patterns. I use the back of the desk as storage - for my sewing machine, tool trays, idea box and the drawers are full of inks, embossing powders etc. Above the desk my hubbie installed some paint cans on the wall (you can juuusttt see them above the top edge of the chair!) - and this makes great horizontal storage for all my different kinds of pens! And who doesn't love those magnetic boards and strips from IKEA? Love these for hanging ongoing projects and lighter templates like the stitching and journaling ones that you can see there!!

To the left of the desk is some great storage - a cropper hopper for my photos and storage units (Michaels) -and further to the left is a closet. You can see I have two large sets of plastic storage drawers - the top contains all my acrylic stamps. and blocks (mostly already in storage packages as they are CTMH stamps), and the bottom contains all sorts of my other craft items. There are loads of shelves in the back of the closet for larger items like my extra box of photos, chipboard sheets, large mailers, clipboards waiting for altering etc.

Beside the closet is a great set of shelves with some of my favourite photos of family and friends as well as some keepsakes like the over sized doll! There is a bookcase (old pantry unit) that I keep lots of idea books and all kinds of magazines in - and a basket full of various scrapping magazines, and such.

Then behind the door, my handy hubbie built me a ribbon holder and he took a rotating acrylic paint carousel, cut it in half and hung it underneath the ribbons so all my paints are visible too.

Along the same wall more Michaels storage units - topped off with my Cricut; and my computer desk! Love the glass shelf with plants and coloured vases! (If you are into details, check out the clock with the little coloured balls and the neat round ceiling light in the upper left corner!)

Finally, the main wall in the room has a large cubed storage area - filled with cases (fishing tackle trays) of rubber stamps, embellishment boxes of brads, eyelets, buttons, floss, etc., and of course my mini stereo!! This unit is topped off with many storage boxes (WalMart) - all my scrap papers sorted by colour, and smaller drawers of foam stamps, metal sheets and tools, beads, etc.

At the end of the table on floor you can just make out my Clip It Up (love that!!) and a heated mat for my furry scrappy helpers!!

Now you've seen my space and know where I'll be hanging out this weekend! Hope you enjoy your weekend as much as I think I am going to enjoy mine!! Watch for new layouts, and posts next week so you can see what I accomplished!

Uh-oh... THAT'S not good!

2008-03-02T11:09:00.007-06:00

You wouldn't believe my Saturday....

okay, let's just back up a little.........

Just like many of you women out there, I am a close friend of the toilet bowl. I am the rubber glove, toilet-ducky, scrub-brush put-my-hand-where-no-one-should-ever-have-to household toilet (and bathroom) cleaner. Okay, it's not great but I've learned to live with it. Having spent time that close to the porcelain pal, I know what size something has to be in order to get flushed through the pipe. I know what will and won't fit. But do you think my dear hubbie would believe me? Six years of being married and more years of cleaning bathrooms (it was also one of my "chores" growing up) and he STILL doesn't believe me and has to see for himself......

So yesterday just around supper time I am looking at our fish tank (ahhhhh, now you know where this is going don't you?) - it has needed a really good cleaning for a long time but just in the last day or so developed this absolutely horrific algae problem..... and when I point it out to Ian, we take a good look and realize that our placostamous (who we figure is about 5 years old) is stuck in the corner behind a large decoration. Out come the tank cleaning supplies..... buckets, towels, scrubbies, water purifier, aquarium salt, carbon filter, air stones... and...and...and....... the NET. Placostie isn't doing well so Ian moves him into a different area of the tank and we can really see he's not long for this world..... so, the fatal decision is made...... Plascostie needs to be disposed of.

I asked, "Are you going to flush him?" He says he is and I tell him that I think Placostie is too big. Into the net and into the bucket then they disappear into the bathroom together. I hear flushing, gurgling, more flushing.... the shut off valve on the toilet being turned... Ian comes out..... goes back in...... next thing I know he's in the kitchen getting out the garbage and wanting me to hold the bag....

APPARENTLY I was right..... he was TOO BIG TO FLUSH!! (Aaack, aaack..... tie the bag quick!!Aweeeee...... poor thing.) Not only would he not flush, but he jammed himself in the bowl and Ian needed pliers to "fish" him out with. Yuck-yuck-yuck!!!

In any case, poor Placostie has gone to fishie heaven... and hopefully we have learned a lesson from this. Sometimes the wife DOES know best!! LOL!!

So we sorted through the supplies we have and decided it's time..... new stones, decorations. backgound papers, filter replacements, are needed. Off we go... from store to store to store until we've gathered up everything we need for a new home for our 6 remaining fish. Finally I think I can stomach something to eat... so we grab a quick bite.... and then it's home again. Too late to start the whole cleaning process but at least we are all ready!

So this post is dedicated to Mr. Placostamous who had a good life and grew into one of the great bottom feeder, algae eaters of our time. Bye-bye Mr. P, bye-bye.

Getting a Good Night's Sleep

2008-02-27T06:27:00.006-06:00

.... seems darn near impossible around here!! Last night qualifies for the most hours of uninterrupted sleep that I have had since Shumi (the dog) had a tooth pulled on Friday!! I actually only had to get up with him once during the night!! And the cats did not even begin to bother me until 10 minutes before my alarm went off!! That's a first in ages! Almost 5 hours of undisturbed sleep!! How lucky can a girl get?

So I think (maybe, hopefully) that my cold is starting to clear up. It has been one nasty bug and not getting enough sleep sure doesn't help any! But I almost feel human today.... a pretty good start to a Wednesday if you ask me! And it has been a good week so far...

Monday I received a really special treat in the mail. (Gotta love it when your bf send your jewelry!) Patti sent me a really cute necklace - she has the best taste in jewelry (she is great at picking out all kind of gifts for me, actually!) - in a sweet keepsake box that describes our relationship to a T! Watch for a posting on the weekend or early next week with a layout featuring all the jewelry she has given me over the last several years! She's my "J" page for my ABC album that I am currently working on.....

and speaking of scrapbooking..... last night I finished up another iScrap challenge (now called WeScrap to give the site more of a community feel). I had to do a monochromatic layout .... it's called "New Best Pals" and features the tongue-hanging-out-favourite and the lovely Sarah:

Check back for that jewelry layout I mentioned! Have a great few days!

Under the Weather

2008-02-23T11:23:00.005-06:00

Haven't had much to say the last few days. Came home sick from work on Wed - headache and flu symptoms. Suffered thru that - managing to share with my hubbie by Thurs night so instead of sleeping to get rid of it I was up tending to him at 3 am! Somehow it turned into a cold so by yesterday I was feeling "better" - only the sniffles to contend with!

Yesterday wasn't a great day for my poor dog, either! Off to the vet to have his teeth cleaned and one pulled. He's not too happy about that! Just got him home late in the afternoon and he had a seizure (he's epileptic!), inside the front door. To make it worse, he knocked his head on the entrance table, too. Poor guy was up most of the night with the trots - likely a reaction to the anesthetic. I took the first shift of being up (12mid to 4am) and hubbie took the second shift. Still not too steady on his paws today but a little more relaxed and seems to be sleeping better. Looks pretty pathetic tho' with his shaved leg (from the IV) and sad face! I supposed it's just like having a sick kid!! Anyway, at some point I am sure I will get a full nights sleep!! I can only hope!

To say that I haven't accomplished much this week is an understatement! Tried doing a few bits here and there but just not enough energy to even sit at my scrap table and work on anything. Still trying to make a dent in our recent renovations! Did have a couple of fellows in to give us estimates on creating a nice area around our den fireplace. Haven't heard back yet - hope I don't die of shock when I see their quotes! I did learn that the den walls (panelling) are not nailed on - just glued. Thinking of taking it out and going with a grasscloth type wall treatment to help disguise any bumps and bits of leftover glue that we cannot get off the wall! If you've had experience with this type of wall treatment, drop me a comment and tell me your experiences! That might help me to decide what to do!

Well, dog needs to be let out so I'm off for now. Have an enjoyable, relaxing weekend! (And I'm going to see about getting some scrapping done!)

Three Day Weekend

2008-02-19T13:03:00.007-06:00

Where did it go? Anybody else feel that way?

Seems there just isn't enough time to get everything you wanted to do done - but somehow three day weekends seem to go so much faster for me then the 2 dayers - and somehow I am always tired upon my return to work! What's up with that?

I suppose if you want to really analyze it I did get a fair amount accomplished: a reasonably clean house; groceries for the week; some family time- both on the phone and in person; finished reading my book; got around to cleaning up the computer drives and backed-up some photos; took a few pictures for my newest scrapbooking project - an "ABC All About Me" album and got three of the pages completed; finished up the laundry; had a hair cut (thank goodness!!); fit in an appointment with a brick mason - to give me an estimate on renovating my den fireplace; and even fit in a little tv watching. Hmmmm ... sounds pretty good now that I think on it!! LOL!

Here are the beginning pages for my ABC album that I got done. I've chosen and 8x8 format and wanted to keep the pages focused on the photographs with only a small bit of journaling to go alongside. I hope by being consistent in the title and basic layout and the use of black and white, that I can choose other patterns of papers that compliment each letter and use different colours throughout!! I know you can't tell by looking at them here but the B&W chipboard letters are flocked and have a great texture to them! SWEET!

I popped on iScrap today and learned that I have a couple more challenge to get busy with so I suppose I should get to them!! Next month is another online weekend crop - a great time and lots of fun things to do!! I probably won't take on any of the monthly challenges, but will focus on the crop and my own scrapping instead!

So what did you do for your weekend?

Layout With Love

2008-02-14T06:15:00.004-06:00

I am happy to say that the layout chosen by iScrap to feature today is one of my husband when he was getting his pacemaker checked. I suppose it's not often that people ask to take photos of that sort of thing - but for me it's part of the life that we have and I wanted to record it!! (You can see it on the slide show here or at http://iScrap.net.)

Here is another layout along those lines, but about my neice Brittny who was only 4 lbs when she was born.

There is some journaling on the front which reads Brittny Nichole, born Oct. 22, 1989 at the U. of A hospital. Photos taken Nov 11, 89 - one week before weighing enough to go home!

There is also some hidden journaling on a card which reads: Extra Terrestrial. Brittny wan't the cutest baby ever born! In fact we thought she looked like E.T. with her big eyes and forehead! But there was a reason - she weighed only 4 lbs. and spent the first month of her life in the hopsital. Now, 18 years later - and weighing way more than 4 lbs., she's a bright sweet articulate woman who warms my heart. As I look back E.T. has a whole new meaning - extra tiny. Love you Brit!

Happy Valentine's Day everybody!

I'm So Excited.....

2008-02-13T11:14:00.004-06:00

For many of you this might not be a huge deal but for me it's positive thing that's happening in my life! I just got an email from the iScrap team letting me know that tomorrow (Feb. 14) I am going to be the featured scrapbooker of the day. That just means that my layout will be featured so it will get a little more exposure then some of the others I have posted on that site. It was great news to get that email so be sure to check it out (even though it is very likely that the same layout is posted here on my blog ;-)! I don't know which layout it will be so we'll all be surprised that way!!

It can be found at http://iscrap.net/ under the Creative Cornere Banner!

Hey, Bo, maybe it will be the one you like sooooooo much :-O LOL!!!!

Returning to My Usual Self

2008-02-03T12:42:00.000-06:00

Finally, after almost a week of feeling ugly with a nasty head cold, I am coming back to be me again. I am not a good "sick person" - I like to be left alone with my tissues and Vicks!! So glad to be feeling on the path to better health again!!

Anyway, do you ever wonder about the tricks stores use to get you to come into their store and spend money? Sometimes it's as simple as a flyer (I'm a sucker for those!!), or a coupon in the mail, but it's not often I come across this marketting ploy. (This is a really cute one, actually.) I am signed up at a local pet store to receive mailings and be part of their so-called 'pet club'. I do remember when I initially signed up I had to put down my pets' names and their approximate dates of birth on the form. To my amazement, mailings (usually coupons) come quite regularily from the store - but oddly enough, they aren't addressed to me. Apparently they decided to skip me and mail them directly to my pets - for their 'birthdays' no less. The first one came to Nathan, and now we have had another delivered to Squeak. I'm beginning to wonder if I even have an address attached to my name - but wait! I must still live here too, because my name appears as the "care-of" (supposedly I am the one with the wallet, however, if you saw my pets' piggy bank, you'd wonder) - and even at that, the store must have decided they didn't like my first name as they added on to it (please, call me Christopher). Yes, that's the great world of advertising, promoting and mail coupons!! The pets get the coupons, and I get to spend my money on them! Lucky pets!!

I suppose I shouldn't complain - it's not like I never spend money on things for me!! In fact, my friend Ardath gave me the latest Close To My Heart (CTMH) catalogue to browse through and who can resist their wonderful acrylic stamp sets? I know I can't, so that was my big splurge towards my scrapbooking for a while!! Can't wait til they arrive! Besides that, there are lots of new fun things going on at iScrap. I am almost ready to start my ABC Album. Yes, it's another project that I am already well behind on - but one that will take several weeks to complete so I won't feel rushed or panicked about getting it done all at once! I thought this sounded really good - a chance to focus on me and the things that bring me the most joy. I decided to use a basic black and white colour palette with some solids and patterns thrown in for good measure!! I'll share my pages here as I am able to get them completed.

For now, it's off to make some cards and maybe a layout if I can find enough creativity to keep me going!

Tagged for Tunes

2008-01-30T12:03:00.000-06:00

A while back I was tagged by Jemma as she wants to know what 5 songs hold a great deal of meaning for me. Those of you that know me well, already know I'm a "little bit country" at heart but you might be surprised by the songs I've chosen because I also like a number of other styles of music. It was really hard to only pick 5 - as music, of all kinds, is really important to my soul. So for me, here are my top 5:

This one I chose because, even though my siblings (both older) and I, sometimes don't see eye to eye, we each know for sure that we can depend on each other - no matter what.

We Got Us (the Muppets)

Piggy: Life is a funny thing
Sometimes you laugh and sing
Kermit: Sometimes you grumble and fuss
Piggy: But either way what do we care?
Both: We got us
Scooter: We have our ups and downs
Our share of smiles and frowns
Gonzo: But through it all we don't fuss
Kermit: 'Cause we got a special thing goin'
All: We got us
Fozzie: Some people like to go through their life single
Aw, that wouldn't suit us at all
Floyd: Why sing a melody as a soliloquy
When its more fun to be
All: Harmonizing
People they say we are
Crazy the way we are
That we won't even discuss
'Cause what we got they can't smother
We'd trade our life for no other
They've only got one another
But we got us!

This next song I chose because of my job and my parents. As a young person I often wondered why my parents pushed me to do things I did not agree with or really did not want to be a part of, but now, with what I see every day working with young offenders, I have become very grateful for the kind of upbringing I had and the kind of people my parents are. I see them as the glue that made me who I am and helped form my beliefs, and I know that there aren't many parents in the world like them anymore. To me this song says it all:

Drug Problem (Bellamy Brothers):

I hear people talkin' 'bout goin' cold turkey
dryin'out, checkin' in to Betty Ford
but I just can't relate to all those strange addictions
cause my DRUG problem never went ignored.

Chorus:
You see I was DRUG to church on Sunday mornin'
I was DRUG to family reunions
I was DRUG to Grandpa's farm to work every summer
and I was DRUG to weddings and reunions.
I was DRUG out the door to go to school, everyday
I was DRUG by my ears when I was bad
when I disobeyed my parents or my teacher,
I was DRUG to the woodshed by my dad
and those DRUGS are still running through my veins,
still affecting everything I do and say and if kids today
had those kinds of DRUG problems
I believe the world would be a better place.

I won't claim I grew up to be perfect, far from it
But everytime I start to make a slip
I can see daddy reachin' for the good book
and can hear those prayers roll from momma's lips
And that's why I count my blessin's every evenin'
and pray to the good Lord up above
thank Him for givin' me a DRUG problem
and a home and a family filled with love.

Repeat Chorus

Third, is a good old country song by George Strait. Ian told me a long time ago that whenever he heard this song he'd think of me and 20 years later - here we are:

Check Yes or No (George Strait):

It started way back in third grade. I used to sit beside emmylou hayes
A pink dress, a matching bow, and her pony tail.
She kissed me on the school bus, but told me not to tell.
Next day I chased her round the playground
Across the monkey bars, to the merry-go-round
And emmylou got caught passing me a note
Before the teacher took it, I read what she wrote.

Chorus:
Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do, well then don't be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to.
I think this is how love goes, check yes or no.

Now were grown up and shes my wife.
Still like two kids with stars in our eyes.
Aint much changed, I still chase emmylou.
Up and down the hall, around the bed in our room.
Last night I took her out in a white limousine
Twenty years later, she still gets to me
Cant believe its been that long ago.
When we got started with just a little note.

Repeat chorus

I chose this next song because Ian and I used to write a lot of notes and letters to each other when we were teens. There was a time when we weren't together and I did not get to see a lot of him, so on the bad days, all I had were those letters.This song is my story about that time in my life. (BTW, I still have a lot of those letters...)

Those Letters (Darryl and Don Ellis):

I got a call from her tonight
She was tying not to cry
She asked, "Have you seen him lately?
Do you know if he's okay?
Ain't the months gone by like years",
And then her words turned into tears
She said, "I haven't been the same
since he went away."

Chorus:
She's been readin'those letters again
Hanging her heart on the wind
And I know how lonely she's been
She gets so weary being' strong
Most of the time she's alright
But now and then late at night
She needs to lean on a friend
She's been reading those letters again.

She says she hasn't slept a wink
She's been drinking and she don't drink
And all his old love letters
say his heart will never change.
I know she's tryin'to let him go
But his memory's dyin' slow
'Cause the only thing he left her
She just can't throw away

Repeat Chorus.

Finally, my fifth choice would be this song by Carolyn Dawn Johnson. If you look at my slide show you'll find a layout (featuring myself) using the song title and these lyrics:

God Doesn't Make Mistakes (Carolyn Dawn Johnson):

A couple inches taller
Another size smaller
A little curl in my hair
Used to wish I was older
Now I wish I was younger
Back when I didn't have a care
Most of the time I am happy with what God gave me
Once in a while I wish that some miracle would change me
I'm ok with the way God made me
I have my days but doesn't everybody
It's not always easy for me to believe in myself
But I gotta remember
I'm always gonna be a better me than anyone else
And God doesn't make mistakes
Mama says I'm special
Calls me her little angel
Yeah, I could almost do no wrong
But I trip and stumble
Guess that's what keeps you humble
But I pick myself up and I carry on
I'll never be a flawless model of perfection
Nobody's perfect and I admit I'm no exception
I'm ok with the way God made me
I have my days but doesn't everybody
It's not always easy for me to believe in myself
But I gotta remember
I'm always gonna be a better me than anyone else
And God doesn't make mistakes
I'm thankful for the rainy days
They only make the sunshine sweeter
I'm ok with the way God made me
I have my days but doesn't everybody
It's not always easy for me to believe in myself
But I gotta remember
I'm always gonna be a better me than anyone else
And God doesn't make mistakes

So for me, I like music that has a meaning to it - and something I can relate to - no matter if it's kids tunes (Muppets), Gospel (Bellamy Brothers), or country!
What are your top 5?

See-thru mini book instructions

2008-01-23T19:51:00.000-06:00

There was a new challenge in iScrap that I decided to take part in. It was to create a mini book with one of the following themes: It's all about you, Home sweet Home, or Photography. I chose to do a book in a style that was new to me and to use the newest member of my family (Harry, the cat) as the subject for an "All About You" album. I wanted to create an acetate or clean album using transparencies. At some point I am sure I saw the way to make this album while I was cruising my favs on the net, but it was quite some time ago and I just don't remember the source. Also I am sure my version is likely a little different than the one I saw as I couldn't remember it exactly, but here are the general directions.

1. Gather some transparencies (1 8.5x11 page makes 2 pages in the book) and some of your favourite patterned paper (can be 8.5x11 or 12x12).

2. Trim off the white edge on both the transparency and the paper.

3. Cut the transparency in half across - creating 2 pieces that are approx 4x8. Use a scoring blade to create a fold down the middle of each of your transparency pieces so you have a card size of about 4x4. (Depending on where the white edge was, the exact size may vary a little.)

4. Repeat this process with your patterned paper. The difference is that is your patterned paper is SINGLE SIDED, you will need to cut 2 pieces the same and glue them back to back so the pattern faces out on both sides. If you happen to be using DOUBLE SIDED paper, you will only need to cut one piece.

5. Next, tear or cut a 2x4 piece of paper - your choice of pattern or solid colour. This is going to be the spine of your transparency book. Use the scoring blade to create a score down the centre.

6. Layer a transparency on top of the spine and attach the two together using 3-5 brads.

7. Using the two transparencies (one with the "spine" paper on the inside) and then the patterned paper, layer them to create a "sandwich" beginning with the spine transparency on top, then your pattern paper then another transparency. Be sure the folds line up as closely as possible.

8. Take some ribbons and/or other fibers and tie them around the spine so that it holds all the layers together.

9. You are now ready to embellish your transparency book. Remember with transparencies, you can see it from both the back and the front so you'll want to be careful in how you line up your images and embellishments.

As you can see from my example, I added several more pages and chose to embellish only the front cover transparency. I used rub ons (which don't look good from the back side because they are letters) but another thing that might work very well would be stamps using staz-on, or another permanent type of ink made for non-porous surfaces. Keep in mind that letters and words can only be properly viewed from the side on which they were stamped, but patterns like flowers and flourishes can be viewed well from either side of the sheet. You could also simply create designs with alcohol inks that would be beautiful when viewed from both sides of the transparency.

So give this charming, little "transparent" book a try and drop me a note to let me know how it turns out!Good luck!

Another Week Gone Already??

2008-01-20T12:21:00.000-06:00

How time flies.... it's been a busy week at our household as I've taken on a couple of extra projects at work which have caused me to stay late a few nights. Hopefully the planning stages are almost done and there won't be any snags with having the youth work on their clay pieces!

Try as I might I've only been able to knock a few projects off my scrapping goals list - but a few is better than none!! I've finished a few thank you cards, one birthday card and one "congratulations, you're pregnant card" so that's a start!!

At home some other things came up - like having to bath one of the cats (see the "Eyes Have It"page below to know which cat it was!), who, BTW, has NEVER been bathed before. That makes it a little more INTERESTING doesn't it? We managed okay, although I must say he was less then impressed with us! He will just have to get used to it tho' because there's more of that coming his way. He has Plasma Cell Stomatits, which is somwhat like an allergy to his teeth and so we had to have ALL his teeth pulled a while back. And trust me, it's really hard for a cat with no teeth to groom himself and to keep clean - and the other cats can only do so much..... sooooo the rest is up to Ian and I! Poor thing!!

And along with that we've been deciding how we want to renovate our basement (likely not for another year or so) and our den (this years' goal. I am happy with the ideas we have come up with for both - and of course, I love the colour and design part of it so that has taken up a lot of my current brain-functioning space!! LOL! Even though yesterday was a long furniture shopping day..... I think we might have found something for the den, so that's terrific! I'll be sure to post some before and after pictures when (if?) we get it done!

Now I have a low battery signal... so I'd better post this and run!

Thanks to everyone for the great birthday gifts (we actually celebrated my birthday last weekend) and wishes! Til next time..

No Time For Sleeping...

2008-01-14T19:29:00.000-06:00

Too Busy Scrappin'!

What a great weekend. Lots of fun at the iScrap on-line crop. Games (scattergories, bingo, word scrambles and more!), cool make and takes (party invites, shopping folder, etc.) and TONS of fabulous challenges - both scrapping and iScrap site related ones. Here are a couple of my favourite Challenges.

This one was about your favourite colour. First, choose your colour. 80% of the colour used in the layout had to be your favourite AND you had to use the name of the colour somewhere - either in the title or journaling. This is what mine turned out to be:

Aren't you GREEN with envy??

Another of my favourites was an ongoing Challenge. every so often the creator would give you the next step - and it was interesting as you never knew what was coming. Basically it started off as one 12x12 solid, and 3 patterns, along with a 4 world title and 2 photos. Next, she gave specific dimensions for each of the pattern papers to be cut to size, and told us that one had to be made off square - either by sutting trimming with decorative scissors or tearing. We then had to find a large chipboard piece of our choosing and cover it with ribbon. Our title could be anyway we wanted - rub on's, stencils, stickers, stamps, chipboard etc. Finally we had to use 6 brads, eyelets, or stickers. And the last step was to adhere everything to the page any way we wanted. Unbelieveable the different layout's that people created. Here's mine.....

And even though there were lots more, here is an idea that I thought was really neat. We were given a link to a site and had to go "scraplift" the layout ......

This was a well planned event. There were all sorts of things going on, a live chat, plus message boards, games, make and takes, challenges and so on. We were encouraged to leave comments on each others layouts and in the message boards. A really big bonus for me was not having to try to decide what to "take" as it was all in the comfort of my craft room!!

All this...... and I could stay in my flannel jamies and fuzzy slippers all day... I mean, how often can you do THAT at a crop??

Iscrap Weekend On-line Crop

2008-01-13T00:09:00.000-06:00

This is the first on-line crop I have ever been involved with. I've been having a great time playing games and getting neat challenges for layouts I never would have thought of. I will post some of these layouts and items when I get the chance. One of the things I am supposed to do is post answers to the following 5 sets of questions on my blog. Feel free to submit your own answers to me either by email or in the comment section! Let's see how we compare!!

The Power of 5.
1. Five things I can’t scrapbook without: acrylic stamps, photos that say something to me, coloured pens, pop-dots, brads
2. Five places I have traveled to most recently: Edmonton (AB.), Regina (SK), Creston (B.C.), Okanagan Valley (B.C.), Langley (B.C)
3. Five things I watch on TV: Ghost Whisperer, 48 Hours, Rescue Mediums, Hope & Faith, Take Home Chef (Curtis Stone is a cutie!!)
4. Five foods I can’t stand: sushi, mussels, calamary, organ meats (liver, kidney), wild bird (quail, duck)
5. Five reasons to visit iScrap! meet new people, enter great contests, get neat ideas, have others comment on your photos/l.o.'s, learn new techniques

So there are my answers! What are yours?

Just for Fun!!

2008-01-10T07:31:00.001-06:00

Today's my birthday and I want you to help me celebrate so I'm having a little contest ...... I want you to send me an email telling me how old you think I am!! The first person (sorry, family and friends who know me well cannot play!) to email me with my correct age will receive a little scrapbook package - some papers and embellishments, I'm thinking! I will be off to the LSS to pick up some goodies after work today!! If no one guesses correctly, I will put all entries into a draw and pick one person randomly! How's that for fun?

PS. I promise I won't hold it against you if you think I'm older then I am!! ;-)

New Goals for a New Year

2008-01-09T18:45:00.000-06:00

Ok, so who set some goals for themselves for 2008? I know I did and strangely enough, a challenge on iScrap helped me to record them! Here's the page I submitted to the iScrap challenge:

As you can see, this is a simple record of the 4 goals I hope to meet through my scrapbooking. There is a great article in the Jan edition of Creating Keepsakes magazine to help you set some scrapping goals if you haven't already!

One of my goals is to scrap a backlog of photos I have from years past. I was able to spend a few hours of my Christmas vacation sorting my old pictures and choosing the ones I most want to scrap. Then I went through my supplies - both patterned paper and embellishments, to see what I could use. Next I selected complimentary solid coloured papers for each set of photos and grouped the papers with the corresponding photos and embellishments so now I have quite a few "ready to start" pages and projects - and a shopping list for things I want to get! Finally I created a list of layouts, cards and projects so that I can refer to it throughout the year and mark off anything I have completed. (I have this list "hidden" under the photo on my 2008 Scrapbook Goals layout.)

I am not suggesting you have to scrapbook the way I do or be this organized (anal?), but I do hope you'll give some thought as to what you want to accomplish this year! If you want to share your goals (whether they are scrapbooking related or not) feel free to leave me a comment or drop me an email! All the best to you for 2008!

Western Cards

2008-01-06T11:05:00.001-06:00

Yesterday and today I created some western themed cards for Don, a friend of mine. I like each card to be a little different - unique in its own way. Even though the papers or images may be used repeatedly, I never make an exact duplicate! Just a little change can make a huge difference. I really love the patterned papers I'm using for these cards - they are by "Sugar Tree" and even tho' I've never found this line in Saskatoon, it's quickly becoming one of my favourites! I'm also using some fabulous rubber stamps by "Stampin' Up" - I especially like the phrase stamp that came with the set (see today's quote)! So what do you think?

This is one of my favourites as the detail in the patterned paper is unbelieveable! The photo doesn't do it justice!

The First Day

2008-01-04T20:31:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my first blog entry! Ok, so I admit to being a little behind in the world of technology, but better late than never right? I simply wanted a place where my friends and family can check in on me and see what I've been up to. When I am not at work (I teach English and Art to at-risk teens) or putzing around the house, I can usually be found scrapbooking, or doing something creative! As many of my family members are spread across Canada, I thought it would be fun to have some way of showing them what I am doing so watch for lots of photos, lots of projects and hopefully some neat ideas and tips for others who scrapbook and like to create. For today, know that we are setting out on a journey together and that I'm glad you're coming along!