Tailored Sentiments - Dawn "Petrick" Cosgrove

Aloha

2012-02-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Aloha Everyone!!

Adam and I are currently in Hawaii, having an amazing time enjoying the sunshine :) I just wanted to pop in and let you know I haven't disappeared, I'm just taking in the many sights this beautiful island has to offer!!

Frosty Morning & a Card

2012-01-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

Can you believe its almost February?!? I've hardly settled in to January!! We woke up this morning to the most beautiful sunrise, followed by a thick frost that covered the trees, making it truly a winter wonderland :)

Our morning view

The lovely frost

And, because VDay isn't far away..I have been busy creating little love notes and greeting cards to celebrate the special day..this card is of no exception ;)

I heat embossed the lacy heart with white embossing powder, then die cut a heart out of white cardstock, stamped it with a gingham pattern and adhere it on top. Then I stamped PTI's Bkgd Basics: Hearts sentiment in black ink, followed by some dotted flourishes and arrows in Pure Poppy ink. The final addition were these mini white hearts die cut from felt...warm & cozy!! Gotta love that ;)

Happy Crafting Everyone!

love,

dawn

A Little Re-Fresh

2012-01-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday everyone!!!!

With these chilly temperatures we are experiencing (-34 celcius, -29 F with the wind chill), I am up early this morning, checking blogs, answering emails and getting myself ready to leave the city and head home to the farm again. But I just wanted to stop in quickly and point out the little blog refresh I have been working on with Heather Rolin!! I had been thinking about updating the name of my blog for a few months now and just before Christmas, I approached Heather to see what we could do.
The result is up (new banner and sidebars) and I'd love to hear what you think!
Have a great day everyone and stay warm if you are anywhere near this extreme winter weather!!! Happy Crafting!!

love,
dawn

Something to Ponder..

2012-01-18T23:29:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wondered what your "thing" was in life? Have you found it? Searched for it? Struggled to get it? Such a strange concept to imagine everyone has a "thing" in life, but, I truly do believe that we all possess the ability to create something..anything, that is unique to our being. As a young girl I would daydream of my future and the endless possibilities that it seemed to hold. And, while in college, I would be inspired by so many things but never fully understood how to carry it out to completion, be it a project, a business idea or anything in between. And, even today, I am still always wondering what exactly it is that I should/want to be doing in life.
I can spend hours online, searching thru inspiring blogs and telling myself I should be going out more and taking those beautiful photos I saw or creating that layout that made me get off my butt... but when I walk away to bring that motivation to my own life, I seem to lose the inspiration, why is that? Do you ever go through this in your own life?
So far what I have learned is that it is alright to keep working at figuring out who you are. It will always be healthy to work on yourself, grow, expand and learn something new. Through the growing phase its only natural to question your path but I know that it'll always work out, just the way it was supposed to. And if you yourself have questioned this exact same topic, please keep the following in mind:

Just something to ponder...have a great night everyone! Happy Crafting!

love,
dawn

Total & Utter Randomness...

2012-01-17T00:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

I hope you all had an amazingly wonderful weekend!! Preferably in an area that did not get hit by that freak winter storm??!? (Okay yes, it is the middle of January..but you CANNOT drop 20 degrees in 1 day and not complain!!) I had plans of coming home to the city to visit my family yesterday but due to the storm, I stayed at the farm an extra night and came home today. Needless to say, I am missing my hubs back at the farm now but quite cosy in my old bedroom at the folks' house for a few days while I fill up on good 'ol city vibes ;)

Speaking of which, matter #1 I wanted to take care of was to stop by the photo centre where I have been sending all of my Project Life photos so I could get down to documenting my first 2 weeks of January..upon arriving at said photo centre I was informed that my photos were nowhere to be found..nowhere. Even though I received a confirmation email 5 days ago that my order was complete...nadda...ugh. So, I have resubmitted my order to a different photo centre and will be picking these up this week before returning home!! I really can't wait!
Any of you out there attempting PL without the Design A Photo Protectors?!? I have read that others are printing their photos and jotting down notes so that when the protectors are back in stock next month, they can begin documenting their PL...I don't know about you but I know myself and, if I don't work on it now, I never will!! So, with that in mind I have taken to writing down my notes in my daily agenda, plus sticking my photos in to a photo sleeve that holds 6 horizontal 4x6 photos to simulate the Design A protectors..giving me an idea of how it will actually look upon completion next month. I think this idea kind of rocks (definitely rocking my world) but...what are you doing til they are back in stock?!?
Speaking of Project Life, today while driving home on roads such as these:

I happened to look to my left and you will never guess what was flying next to my drivers side window:

Yup, a snowy owl!! Just flying right alongside me....how cool is that?!? I couldn't believe it!! I, of course, immediately called Adam to let him know what I had just experienced (he, of course, did not find it as life altering as I had, but thats okay). This experience is definitely going in my Project Life this week and although I did not take my own photo of him..I will definitely print one and add it to my album!

Although I haven't created a layout for PL yet, the photos, the documenting and the "being mindful of the everyday" have been amazing. I cannot wait to get our lives down on these pages to document and remember for the rest of our lives.

Well its getting late here so I should get my sleepy self to bed...hope you all had a wonderful start to your weeks..Happy Crafting everyone!!

love,

dawn

Together Forever

2012-01-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

Back at the inlaws ;) So here comes another post!! Today I was able to spend the afternoon in my studio and get some crafty goodness off my desk. While most of my creations are for submission to publications, I did create a special goodie just for the ol blog 'o! Since today marks just one month til Valentine's Day, I thought I would create a sweet little something for you...

All products used today (minus the Divine Twine: Valentine ) are from Papertrey Ink ;)

I loved Conversation Hearts as a child and thought this card was a cute nod to the mini sweets I always enjoyed as a little girl. Have you started your Valentines yet? I'd love for you to link them to me so I can see them!! Have a great weekend everyone. Happy Crafting!!

love,

dawn

Currently on 01.13.2012

2012-01-13T19:07:00.002-07:00

Us driving to Saskatoon this past Monday!!

listening: to the absolute stillness of the country-side

reading: a stack of new magazines (LOVE new magazines!)

watching: Big Bang Theory...cracks me up EVERY time!

eating: popcorn, of course!

drinking: wine...since Italy I just.can't.stop!

wearing: my farm uniform: lulu's and a sweater!

feeling: excited

weather: cloudy this morning, snowy this afternoon and now the most beautiful stars have lit up the sky

playing: with new stamps for an upcoming call!

wanting: Reese's Peanut Butter Easter Egg...yum

needing: my Jakey :(

missing: my family

waiting: for everything to come together

enjoying: being a newlywed!

thankful: for everything I have been given in my life

I can't believe its already almost the middle of January! Time is just going so fast!! I have been keeping up with my Project Life, taking photos and jotting down notes of random thoughts and events in our daily life. I finally received my Core kit in the mail today so can actually begin proper journalling (cannot WAIT for the pack A photo protectors to be coming back in stock next month). Have any of you decided to participate in Project Life this year? I can't wait to see it all come together, I'm so excited for this!!!

As a side note, we still do not have internet but I'm hoping that won't slow my blogging down. Even if that means I need to start coming over here to the In-Laws daily just to keep this blog updated, I am definitely willing to do that!! I hope you all had a great week and are looking forward to an amazing weekend!! Happy Crafting everyone!

love,
dawn

Burning Day!

2012-01-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I am over at my inlaws so thought I'd create a quick post so as to not leave this blog so dang quiet. I've thought about blogging every day and, if I had internet, I would have posted every. single. day. Hopefully we'll get the issues resolved shortly, but until then..please accept my apologies!!!

Two days ago I experienced my first burning day on the farm. Branches and garbage that had been collected over the last year and a half were piled out beside our dug out and finally, on Thursday..it was time for it to burn!! The heat from the fire was incredible and the photos I captured are definitely going in my Project Life album (still have not received my PL contents, but I am keeping track on my calendar and taking photos none-the-less). anyways, without further hesitation..here are some of my favs from Thursday:

My Father-In-Law (showing us how its done!)

Still no internet...

2012-01-04T19:51:00.000-07:00

Country Girl

2012-01-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday Everyone!

I’m back with another layout today, can you believe it?! I made this layout last summer as I was preparing for my big lifestyle change..from city living to farm living..and let me tell you, I have so many stories to share thru layouts this year, I can hardly wait to start them!!

Now, I’ve only been a farmer’s wife for 2 months and living on a farm for 4 months..but wow, what I’ve learned already has been amazing! It seems as if almost daily I utter the words, “my how my life has changed!” It’s truly amazing.

There are many wonderful aspects about my new life that I am so blessed and grateful for and there are also many aspects that are challenging and sometimes down- right hard. But I am learning, I am growing and I am proud to now call myself a Country Girl!!

For todays' project, I used patterned papers from The Girls Paperie as well as letter sticks and embellishments from K & Company.

I hope you are all enjoying the start of the new year!!! Thanks so much for stopping by :)

love,
dawn

A New Year has Begun...

2012-01-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!

I hope you all had a wonderful evening filled with love and laughter as you rang in the New Year! Adam and I went to the States for the day, came home and had a quiet night of appy’s and movies, which was definitely alright with me! At midnight, Adam popped open our bottle of champagne to celebrate and that, dear friends, was our first new years eve as newlyweds ;)

And today brings us a new year: 2012!! I feel really good about this coming year, I think it’s going to be another amazing one, which it’ll have to be to beat 2011! This morning as I was on the treadmill (resolution # 5, I believe) I was thinking about everything I wanted to do and accomplish this year. How I really want to push my creativity and see what I truly have inside of me. I want to study photography and learn everything I can about it. I want to capture our daily memories and scrapbook them like I always say I will. I want to create my business from home and make it a success. There are so many ideas brewing in my head..I can hardly wait to get them all down on paper and start working on making them come true!

A few goals of 2012 that I can share with you at the moment are the goals I have set for my blog and my memory keeping. First off, I suck at blogging…I know this. And I really don’t want to suck at it any more (in my defence, we have no internet at the moment, nor have we since the beginning of December..so when I want to blog, etc I have to go over to my inlaws and do so). But we will have the internet problem solved soon enough and I vow to blog more frequently..I promise. Also, I suck at sticking with a project (photo a day challenges, December Daily, etc) but I really want to see something thru. So, I have decided to work on Project Life for 2012. I know it’s a HUGE challenge for me, but I whole heartedly accept that challenge! I figure it would be an amazing way to document our first year of marriage! My core elements and page protectors have still not arrived in the mail yet though, but I am taking photos and documenting the “who’s & whats” of our daily life and will record them in my album when it arrives and plan on sharing my weekly layouts with you every week {gulp}. So please stick with me…I promise this is going to be a very good year ;)

I was actually SO motivated to get on my goals of memory making that I already made my 2012 title page for my regular scrapbook album (not my PL album) and I thought I’d share it with you here, today.

Here's to a creative and inspiring year in 2012!!

love,

dawn

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!

2011-12-24T15:21:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a VERY Merry Christmas!!! We are back home for the holidays with my parents! We finished up wrapping our gifts yesterday and today stayed in where it is nice and cozy, popped in Elf and mom taught me how to make fresh buns and cinnamon buns...mmm, the house smells lovely!!

I hope you are enjoying the merriest of days with family and friends!!

love,
dawn

Its Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas...

2011-12-02T05:14:00.003-07:00

So, so, SO excited for the month of December...I'm so excited that it is FINALLY here!! December is by far the most treasured month of the year for me..filled with sparkle and magic, whats not to love? We are just getting settled back in to our cozy farm life from our whirlwind wedding and honeymoon and although there is so much to do, all I can think about is pulling out every Christmas decoration I own and turning this place into a home that even Buddy the Elf would love ;)

This month I will also be working on my December Daily..which will be the 3rd year in a row I will attempt to actually complete an album! Seeing as I have yet to complete an album, I'm determined that this will be the year it actually happens! Are you jumping on the bandwagon and working on one as well? Since we just got home on Tuesday, I have yet to pick up my Studio Calico pkg (that holds this years' December Daily supplies) from the Post Office and therefore have no pages to show at this time..but I did take photos to document the 1st of December, and thought these would suffice, for now ;)

Our first day of December was filled with glorious snow that fell the night before, taking photos for this years' Christmas card and working on our new home that we are hoping to move in to this weekend (yay!) ... and here are the photos that will go on to my page...

Isn't it beautiful? December is the ONLY month that I don't care how much it snows..as long as it sticks around for the 25th ;)

Our driveway! One of my favorite things about living on a farm in winter is that the freshly fallen snow is rarely disturbed by people, making for gorgeous winter photos!

I bought these reindeer "hats" a few years ago and came up with the idea to use these this year while we were in Italy. And my amazing hubby agreed!! Gotta love a man in a silly antler hat ;)

Its goofy, I know...but it makes me smile!!

This is quite possibly one of my favorite photos from our photo session yesterday! I told him to make a funny pose and this is what he pulled off. When I pulled out the antlers, he looked at me, wondering (hoping!) that I was joking..but nope, this year we're going to have fun with it!!

Of course I had fun with it...and why wouldn't I?

It made for an awesome Christmas card design that

I know our families will love :)

Eeek! Can't wait to see the final, printed cards! They should be here by next week and you can be sure I will include one in my December Daily album!

One thing I will have difficulty with though is the lack of printers in our area! I'm so used to having photo places around me while living in the city...this could take some getting used to!!

And finally, this is my Mother in Law helping me with the backsplash of our future kitchen. Her and I make a pretty great team and although we've never tiled before, I think we're doing pretty awesome if I do say so myself ;)

So thats it! Our 1st of December in a nutshell!! How will you be documenting your Holidays? I'd love to hear from you!!! Happy Crafting everyone!!

Home

2011-11-30T08:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!
Well the wedding happened..it was amazing..and then our 3 week honeymoon thru Paris and Italy happened...and I still can't find the right words to summarize our time there...I feel inspired, content and ridiculously happy!! I have so much to share..but for now, just have to try and get settled back on the farm and in to our new life as newlyweds...I'll be back soon to share everything!!! But, before I leave..here's a little sneak at our time in Pisa ;)

Happy Crafting Everyone!!!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T10:20:00.000-06:00

When witches go riding, and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers, 'tis near Halloween!!!

Happy Halloween everyone!!! What are you all up to today? I am back home to prep for our wedding this Saturday (wow!) and will be enjoying the trick or treaters tonight for sure!!

Although I have been a little too busy to do as much paper crafting as I would like, I did make sure that I had made at least one Halloween card to share for today, and I have to admit, I couldn't be happier with it!

I used Kraft cs from Papertrey Ink for my card base and filled it with papers and embellishments from My Minds Eye & Making Memories, then topped it off with stamps from Waltzing Mouse (witch, cauldron) and Papertrey Ink (sentiment and date)

The baker's twine is from Doodlebug (LOVE it!) and the bloody border punch is Martha Stewart

I couldn't resist adding some sparkle to her "magic" from her finger as well as the poison she's stirring up in her cauldron...just, magical :)

And..something that is rare for me but something that I love when I see it, I even worked inside the card this time!

The inside sentiment is also from Waltzing Mouse. So there is my Halloween project for you today..spooky, isn't it? :)

Whatever your plans are for today, I wish you a very safe and Happy Halloween!!! Happy Crafting Ghoulfriends! Mwahahahahaha...

The Honeymoon Smash*

2011-10-22T15:32:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone!

Hope you are enjoying a beautiful Fall weekend. I cannot believe this amazing weather we are having..am so crossing my fingers and hoping it will stay around for a few more weeks as....*drumroll please* it is just TWO WEEKS until our wedding!! Can you believe it? I definitely cannot WAIT until November 5th :)
P.S - can you believe its November in less than 2 weeks already?!? Sheesh!

Okay, so I have been busy with wedding prep, designing, cutting, emailing, calling - you name it. But my To Do list is trimming down daily, and that makes me one happy Bride!! Also, our honeymoon is booked and we will be taking off on November 7th! EEEEEK!!!! Yes, my blog will remain silent for the month of November, but I PROMISE I will have LOTS to share when we return!!!!!!!

And since this honeymoon is a very big deal (in so many ways -our honeymoon + our first trip to Europe ever!) I wanted to document it right. And by that I mean, none of these failed past attempts where I bring a notebook and try to jot down our memories while forgetting most of it and having portfolios stocked full of memorabilia that just never made it to a page :( Nope, this time I'm smashing it in folks!

Yesterday I picked up my smash* International book and am so excited to fill it up with all of our memories from Paris & Italy :) And today, I have decorated my cover and thought I'd share! Hope you like it!!

I used mostly October Afternoon products on the cover:

When I saw OA's paper with the world atlas on it, I knew I wanted to cut out Europe and single out France and Italy - I love how this turned out!!

I also used smash* paper tape (polka dots) and Cavallini & Co's Paris tapes to add some texture to my cover - I love it :)

The "Nov" sticker is from Jenni Bowlin - thought it would be a sweet way of adding the month we went to the cover!

So thats my cover, what do you think? I am just so excited to start filling the pages up with everything we find over there!! Have a great weekend everyone! Happy Crafting!

Holiday Style & a Card

2011-10-11T10:41:00.001-06:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone!!

Hope you all enjoyed a beautiful long weekend :) As this was my first long weekend at the farm, I have to admit that I almost forgot it was a holiday weekend altogether! Days seem to run in to one another here..and thats alright with me ;)

This morning, I woke up to an email regarding October Afternoon's "Holiday Style" line being released for Pre-Orders and I have to admit..I think I've been living under a rock! As you may very well know, I am a little "obsessed" with October Afternoon. Their lines are always so beautiful and I always make sure I stock up on them...some may even call me a collector more than anything!! But, how is it that I never heard of Holiday Style until today?! Where on Earth have I been?? But, sure enough..I clicked on that link and my heart skipped a beat..this line is beautiful!! My favorite Holiday release of the year by far! Of course, I stocked up..so excited for it to ship near the end of the month!! Have you seen it? Not to worry if you haven't..I've got you covered!!

This, my friends, is:

Walking the downtown sidewalks that are freshly covered with a light powder of snow. Shopping bags in one hand and your child's hand in the other. On the corner you hear a choir singing Silver Bells. Along with others, you stop to look at the department store holiday window displays. Lines out the store doors of families waiting to see Santa. You can feel it in the air. It is Christmas time in the City. It is times like this that you wax nostalgic of being a kid yourself during the holidays. That is Holiday Style, the latest holiday collection from October Afternoon.

Although it isn't until next Christmas that I am hoping we'll make it to NYC, doesn't the above paper, City Sidewalks", make you want to go now? I have wanted to go to NYC at Christmastime for years now..and this line makes me even more excited!

I am a sucker for anything vintage, especially at Christmas and this paper, Toyland, is perfect!

Here is the entire paper pad..trust me, it is gorgeous!!

Okay, confession time: I may have snatched 3 packages of miscellany...yep, 3. I couldn't stop myself!! How awesome is this?!

So...what do you think of the new line? Are you helping yourself to some Holiday Style this coming Christmas? I can't wait to see what everyone does with this line!!

Alright..I also have a festive card to share with you all today. As I have been in the Holiday mood lately, I couldn't help myself once my new Papertrey Ink stamps came in the mail last month and made 4 cards in one quick sitting...I love when that happens!

I don't know about you but for me, when it comes to Christmas, the more traditional the better. Yeah some color combos on the trees look gorgeous, but for me? I'm all about the good 'ol red & green. And making my cards on Kraft just makes it that much richer!

I die cut my holly leaves and berries using PTI's dies and my Cuttlebug. I love how the felt gives the card a nice cozy feeling!! Of course some Stardust Stickles on the berries didn't hurt either ;)

On the inside, I stamped PTI's Holly Jolly border with New Leaf Green and dotted the berries with red Liquid Pearls to give it some dimension. I have to admit..I really, really love this card!!

So how about you? Have you gotten in to the Holiday spirit yet?? Happy Crafting Everyone!!

Gobble, Gobble

2011-10-09T17:19:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my fellow Canadians!!

Today is the first beautiful Fall Sunday we have had and it fits perfectly with our Canadian Thanksgiving. The air is cool & crisp, the sun is shining golden thru the beauitfully tinged leaves of the trees and the smell of turkey is in the air...yum!!

Via Pinterest

There are so many reasons to be thankful this year. Even though I have been battling the flu the last few days, I am still so grateful for everything that has been going on in my life.

I am thankful:
- for my amazing family. I don't get to see them that often anymore now that I've moved, but they are so amazing in every way
-for my soon to be husband, Adam. Words could not possibly describe our relationship or how I feel about it. He is my everything and to this day I still cannot believe I get to marry him (in 27 days!!!!)
-for my friends..they mean the world to me and I don't think I'd survive without their friendship
-my partner in crime, Jakey..that dog is the star of my life...I just love him so much!!
- for the ability to quit my job and focus on building the business I have always dreamed of
-that in 27 days, I will be one half of such a magical day. I've been given the opportunity to plan the wedding of my dreams..and what girl wouldn't be grateful for that?
-that I have a love of this crafting industry that inspires so many people around the world. Paper crafting is a huge part of who I am and I have no idea who I would be without it!
-for all of you..you inspire me and I am always so grateful that you could take time out of your own lives to check in on mine..thank you!!

I hope you are all having a wonderful Sunday, Thanksgiving or not! Take care everyone and Happy Crafting!

Winner!!!!

2011-10-03T19:41:00.001-06:00

Hey Everyone!!

So sorry for the late post but I had my Bridal Shower & Stagette this weekend..so a lot of catching up to do!! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and a very happy World Card Making Day!! I'm here to quickly announce that the winner of my copy of Holiday Cards & More, Vol 6..courtesy of Paper Crafts is none other than:

Jessie said...

WOW, just WOW! This is definitely my favorite card on the hop. Did they mean to save the best for last? ;) I'm most excited about spending Christmas in my new home with my husband. :D It will be our 2nd Christmas together. <3 looking forward to a warm fireplace, our little Christmas tree, and hot cocoa!

CONGRATULATIONS Jessie!! Please email me your name and address to d.petrick@hotmail.com and I will send out your copy of this wonderful magazine ASAP!!

Paper Crafts magazine Presents: 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-09-30T03:00:00.161-06:00

Hi Everyone!!

You cannot imagine how excited I am to be a part of this amazing blog hop today with all of these lovely & talented designers. When I received the email from Kelly at Paper Crafts, I almost fell off my chair! This truly is a dream come true for me!

So, as one of the lucky designers chosen to be a part of today's hop, I have a lot of fun in store for you... what do you think? Should we get started?! Let's go!

First off, let's talk about this amazing special holiday issue from Paper Crafts, stacked FULL of holiday goodness! 6 years ago when the first issue of Holiday Cards & More came out, I eagerly bought it and ran home..so excited to open it and see what was hidden amongst its pages. To this day, I have collected every Holiday Cards & More issue and refer to them often when making my holiday cards. And so, this past Spring I was bound & determined to submit my creations in to the call and wouldn't you know it, 5 of my cards made it in to this magazine! It truly is a dream come true! I had so much fun listening to Christmas carols and playing with all my favorite holiday images. I think the best aspect of this process was challenging myself to create cards that were truly different from any other I had seen before. And because creating Christmas cards ranks #1 on my favorites list, this experience was honestly so much fun! So if you haven't gotten your hands on Holiday Cards & More, Vol. 6 ..don't worry, I have you covered! You can purchase your very own copy right here:

http://www.scrapandpapershop.com/product/paper-crafts-holiday-cards-and-more-volume-6/new-arrivals

And as much as I enjoy taking the time to really pull out all my materials to create a card, some days a quick 'n easy card really hits the spot. They are the perfect solution when you are trying to mass produce a design for all the loved ones on your Christmas card list. And seeing as I send out an average of 50 cards ever Christmas, quick 'n easy is the way to go for me!! So, since we were challenged to create a quick 'n easy holiday card for this hop, I got straight to work on creating a simple, homespun Christmas card that you can recreate quickly in just a few small steps!

First off, make your card from Kraft cardstock. Stamp a candy cane border image in red ink across the top of your card, then stamp your sentiment.

Next, using green ink, stamp a pine bough garland across the centre of your card. Stamp berries and ornaments in red ink to add some interest.

Next, using liquid glue, adhere glitter to the pine bough garland to add some sparkle (what are the holidays without a little sparkle?) I used Martha Stewart Tinsel Glitter for my card here.

Finally, tie red & white twine around your card front and add a red button, tying it in a bow. And voila, a quick 'n easy Holiday card ready in just minutes!!

So, what do you think? I hope you enjoyed my creation for this blog hop, but it doesn't end here! There are 11 extremely talented ladies waiting to show you a quick 'n easy holiday card as well, I hope you will stop by and give them some Holiday love as well!!

And because Paper Crafts magazine rocks, they have a fun giveaway going on for you right now! Just click here, leave a comment on the Paper Crafts Connection and you will be entered to win this amazing prize below...trust me, you're going to want this!

But wait!! The fun isn't over yet!! I have been given an extra copy of Holiday Cards & More, Vol. 6 that I would love to give away to one of you lucky readers. All you have to do is leave a comment below, telling me what you are most excited about this coming Holiday season and I will pick a lucky winner! Comments need to be in by Sunday, Oct 2nd at midnight and I will announce the winner of the magazine on Monday, October 3rd. Thank you so much for visiting me everyone, and Happy World Card Making Day tomorrow!
Happy Crafting Everyone!

Can you feel it?

2011-09-18T16:12:00.005-06:00

There's a crispness in the air these last few days .. the mornings are cool and the evenings bring a feeling of frost in the air.. can you feel it?

Autumn is on its way. And with that, a very giddy girl here :) You see, Autumn is my FAVORITE season of the year...its just, magical to me! And this year is no exception..I am getting married in 48 days to the love of my life, we are planning a magical honeymoon and I have a LOT to be thankful for this year. Bring on the season!

There are yellowing leaves all around me and while it makes me panic a little (fingers are crossed for a beautiful Nov. 5th day for our wedding) it makes me want to push harvest along so Adam and I can go out for one of our many nature walks with the camera to see what we can capture in all its Autumn glory!

What are you most looking forward to this Autumn season?

Photo from my camera

Picking Favorites

2011-09-16T00:00:00.001-06:00

I have been stalking the Papertrey Ink blog for the last 14 days - watching, waiting, anticipating for this months release. Have you? This month kicks off their holiday releases..and if you know me, you know I love ANYTHING to do with the Holidays!! Christmas is by far my favorite holiday of the year. It is around this time of year that I start getting a little Christmas crazy..singing carols, creating Christmas crafts and anticipating decorating the house with lights, trees and all the goodies I've collected over the years. And with this months' release...lets just say, I cannot wait til my pkg arrives!!

This release my favorites have to be as follows:

I love me some good 'ol fashioned candy canes and this set has my mind swirling with ideas!! Anything red & white for the holidays is right up my alley!

Stylish Sentiments: Holiday. Umm, wow? I don't think I could pick a favorite sentiment in this set..they are all fabulous! I do have to say though that the "Singing Loud for All to Hear" sentiment is definitely going on a layout about one of my favorite holiday movies, "Elf" .. and if you've watched that movie, you know what I mean!

And, probably one I'm most excited for:

Melissa Phillips is an amazing artist and crafter and her stamp sets do not let her down. She has a way of taking something rustic and homespun and making me fall in love with it! This set will definitely be inked in a hurry!! And, my other favorite crafter, Betsy Veldman made an amazing frame with this set that I just had to share

Now..I just have to sit and wait for all of this goodness to arrive!! Happy Crafting everyone!!

Home

2011-09-15T08:46:00.000-06:00

With harvest running us ragged, we haven't had time to unload my belongings since I moved in here 2 weeks ago, nor have we set up a proper home. Now, I don't know about you...but I love being "home" and I miss it so much! I explained to Adam that when I say I miss being home, I don't miss a specific house back in Alberta..I just miss that feeling of being home, the warmth, the comfort, the freedom...that is what I miss

I miss my puppy (he's at my parents' home until I get this farm Jakey-proof), my afghan that mom made me which I like to cuddle up in every night, my PVR, my popcorn (we've been working 12-16 hour days and am too exhausted when we get home to make any. I miss my family - our visits and Sunday night suppers and I miss my friends. But what I am learning here is something extremely valuable:

Home is wherever I make it. Home is where Adam is. Home is in his arms. Home is waking up with him every morning and falling asleep with him every night - without missing a beat. He gives me love, friendship, laughter, silliness, freedom..he gives me everything I could ever ask for.

So well yes, I miss my pumpkin spice latte's and my scrapbooking time (which will come once we're set up) ... I know that it is all worth it because I get to be here, with this guy (below), for the rest of my life!

And, just in case you were wondering, we have just 51 days left til our wedding!!!

Have a great day everyone!!! Happy Crafting!!

Week 1 as a Farmgirl

2011-09-07T14:46:00.000-06:00

image via Pinterest

Well, I've officially been a farmgirl for a week! It still feels as though I am on holidays and due back in the office any day now, but then I remind myself.."nope, this is your life now!"

We are in the midst of harvest here in SK and things are going well after a rainy day last week caused us to lay low for 3 days. We're working some 16 hour days and although we are tired and ready to hit the sack..we're extremely happy! Things have been interesting for me..trying to carve out a piece of me here has been a little more trying than originally thought..but I have faith that it'll all work out sooner rather than later.

For the most part, I have been filling my days riding around in the semi's with Adam. Loading up with wheat, driving it back to the yard to unload in to the bins, moving augers, moisture testing the grain and going right back out to do it all over again! Today though, I decided to stay close to home in an effort to get a few things done.

So far today I have tackled my fear of using the zero turn ride-on mower (big check off my to do list!) It was a little bit of a shakey start, but I got a hand of it eventually. The best part was all the grasshoppers jumping towards me..which of course led to mini freak out sessions, followed by a lawn mower going off course. But I laughed til it hurt and I got it done..I think I may get this farm girl thing down eventually!! Afterwards, I came in to the house where I have been baking my little heart out. Cookies & a cake that...now that I think about it, needs icing shortly :) So...thats my life in a nutshell..can't wait to get back to crafting!!!

Happy Crafting everyone!

My heart is a flutter..

2011-08-25T12:41:00.005-06:00

I woke up this morning with butterflies...the realization that a completely new life is on the horizon for me, is still a little unfathomable! I can't wrap my head around the details just yet. Its crazy to picture my life now with this amazing future we are building and although its a little overwhelming, I simply cannot wait!

But the reality is, this afternoon and tomorrow are all I have left of work in my office. The firm I work at is where I feel I grew up a lot in these past 4.5 years. I've learnt so many new things and met so many amazing people..its bittersweet to be leaving it all behind, even though this is something I've wanted for a very long time!

But, when things seem overwhelming and I feel any nerves...I think of this place:

Paris....ahh, je t'aime

Now, why would I think of Paris? Well that's easy..it's a stop in our European honeymoon that begins in 80 days! Yes, my farmer sure knows how to spoil me! I cannot believe I get to see the Eiffel Tower in person..I am so unbelievably lucky!! So yes..when things seem overwhelming and my seemingly lovely city life beckons me from the country, I'll remember just how truly lucky I am to be walking towards the life I've been given ;)

photos via Pinterest

Possibilities are Endless...

2011-08-23T13:01:00.000-06:00

As I am working down my last week of work, I have a mix of emotions/thoughts in my head. I'm excited to be making such lifechanging decisions & moves but nervous as to what the future will hold for me. And then I found this and I knew that no matter what happens...I'm going to be alright..

Changes

2011-08-18T19:43:00.002-06:00

I am not the type of person that enjoys change..in fact, that statement alone is quite the understatement! But, thankfully I do not fear change and because of that ability, it allows me to experience so many crazy events in this whirlwind journey we call... life..

My life has been a roller coaster this past month and I fear it has only begun! In just over a weeks' time I will be starting my new life with Adam. Living on the farm in another province entirely, prepping for our wedding in just a couple of months and opening a whole new chapter in our lives' story. Lately I have been spending my evenings packing up my belongings and stacking them, waiting for Adam to come this weekend and pick them up! I have been training my dear friend, who will be replacing me at the job I have been at for 4.5 years and all around just trying to wrap my head around all these immense changes!

My future is up in the air and while it has been scaring the crapola out of me..I've decided to view it from a different perspective entirely now. Yes, my life is changing..in a HUGE way, but what lies ahead of me is the man of my dreams, my best friend and a blank slate that I get to paint in whichever way I want. I can get caught up on my scrapbooking, continue designing my greeting cards..my gosh, I can do ANYTHING!! Its such an amazing feeling...look out blog world..I'm going to finally have the time/ability to create and write as much as I've always dreamed of! The possibilities are truly endless!

Playing Catch Up..

2011-08-10T14:03:00.000-06:00

So I am still working away on my August Photo Challenge..but my SD card became corrupted over the weekend and all...my...photos...LOST! I'm trying to run recovery on them, but so far: no dice :( But I'll keep working away..I have so many memories in those photos I took..I really hope they aren't gone for good!

BUT, without further hesitation..here are Days 5,6 & 7:

Day 5, Someone I Love was easy..my fiance!! I took this photo this past weekend {one of only a few that survived} in a wild sunflower field...my personal heaven ;)

Day 6: Childhood Memory

Childhood Memory = Ladybugs! I would spend hours as a child collecting this sweet little insects..wanting to have my very own ladybug as a pet {unfortunately they never did live long enough}

Day 7: Something New

Something New: My Vintage Pearl necklace that Adam surprised me with!! *sigh*

Alright..I'm off to continue playing catch up..wish me luck!

for the love of Yellow...

2011-08-05T12:02:00.002-06:00

Okay..so I cheated on Day 4 of the Photo Challenge {kind of}

We were challenged to photograph our favorite color and as much I as was excited about this, I just simply ran out of time. But I will make a point of shooting beautiful things that are yellow this weekend and adding it to this post. In the meantime, I did spend time collecting a few favorite images from Pinterest, heck I even made a collage for you!!

Oh yellow..you make me so happy! You remind me of summer, warmth, happiness, coziness, hazy evenings, sunshine & sunflowers and warm buttery baked goods. How could it not be my favorite color?
What's yours?

Puffy Marshmallows in the Sky..

2011-08-04T15:45:00.001-06:00

Day 3 of the photo challenge - Clouds!

And for that: a view from the Prairies

Some may find it lonesome, some may find it eerie..but when I'm out in the middle of nowhere with my farmer, I find peace and stillness. I draw inspiration from the solitude of sitting and listening to my own thoughts and watching life unfold where it is completely undisturbed. Have you ever been able to sit for as long as you want and not hear anything but the wind or birds? Ever? I get to as often as I want to and I love it!

So often while living in the city I am frustrated by the motorcycles and the diesel trucks revving their engines as they carreen around the corner..the noise wrecks any solitude I may have had..but here, none of that exists!

Just clouds...floating across a big open space...{sigh}

~Just Breathe~

a photo challenge for August

2011-08-02T19:48:00.001-06:00

Thanks to the lovely post by Oh So Lovely, Im going to participate in their photo a day challenge for the month of August! Since I brutally failed the attempt for this back in June..I'm determined to do it right for August! I have a crazy busy month ahead of me..so cross your fingers & stay with me!! August..here we go!

So...with that being said..Day 1 {selfie}:

My selfie focuses on two of my favorites: my blue eyes that I got from my daddio and my extreme summer freckles {I haven't seen freckles like these since I was little!}

And Todays' challenge {what i wore}:

Favorite polka dot blouse and black capri's, perfect for the office in summer!!

Tomorrows' challenge: CLOUDS!!!

CHA items I {heart} Part II

2011-07-26T10:15:00.000-06:00

Okay so I have seen way too many product lines to love that came out of CHA Summer 2011..and anyone who has been in my scrap studio would know, I'm a teeny bit obsessed with collecting favorite lines {oops!} ..can you blame me though, I mean, really?

I have been patiently waiting for October Afternoon to reveal the full lines of their 3 new product lines..but alas, I'm still waiting :( So...with that being said, I will just post up the sneaks that they put on their blog and when the full lines are revealed, I'll blog them as well ;)

First up: Farmhouse!

YES! There are 2 companies coming out with a "Farmhouse" line..and I love BOTH of them! The images, the designs, the colors..it makes my heart happy just looking at this!! I cannot WAIT to have these papers in my crafty little hands!!

Next up: Sidewalks

In the words of Carrie Bradshaw, "Hello, lover"..thats all I can muster for this line..its beautiful, its vintage, its colorful...and soon it will be mine, all mine ;)

Next up: Sasparilla

Alright, so my farmer does not own a horse (but are free to ride some whenever we choose), but I don't care..I love this line! And since it is currently stampede week here in my City and we have gone all out decorating the place..the line will be the perfect addition to my Stampede layouts!!

Time to let you in on a little secret wish of mine: I want to someday be on the October Afternoon design team!! I love this company, their products are amazing and I am pretty sure I own every single item that they have ever created..they are simply amazing and it is on my list of hopes/dreams that someday I can join them in their amazing journey!!

And speaking of amazing journey...this photo came out on PC's group page...

I had made it my goal to be in PC's Holiday Cards and More special issue, and this year I did it! 5 of my designs will be showcased in this beauty..and I cannot wait til Sept 27th when it comes out!!

Thats all for me today folks...as always, Happy Crafting!!

CHA - Items I {heart}

2011-07-18T12:09:00.000-06:00

Alrighty so the sneak peaks have been coming out for this years' Fall/Winter 2011 CHA show and I...am...in...LOVE! I just called Adam and told him I'm really nervous...and, of course, he couldn't possibly understand why. so I informed him I'm nervous because I feel an empty bank account coming on in future months ;) hehehe

Today I'm showcasing my favorite lines from craft company: Crate Paper!!

Now, this was surprising to me considering I've never been a huge fan of this company. Not sure why exactly..just never seemed to be persuaded to pick up their lines before...but this year...well, they stole me heart with their Peppermint and Farmhouse lines!!

First up: Farmhouse!

I love the warmth of this line! Perfect for Autumn photos, Family gatherings and pictures of us in our new home! Now yes, maybe the fact that in just 6 weeks I will be moving the farm and am only 3.5 months away from becoming a farmer's wife might be a reason why I was pulled to this line as well..but thats allowed..no?

Next up: Peppermint!

Now, I may not be a fan of all of the colors and designs in this collection but the paper above and all the embellishments are what truly hooked me on this line..I know I already have a tub full of Christmas goodies..but that never meant I couldn't buy more...right?!

Alright..so there are my top picks for Crate Paper's new CHA releases!! Can't wait to dig up some more key finds for you soon!!

Take care everyone..and happy crafting!

Currently on 06.17.2011

2011-06-17T11:32:00.001-06:00

listening: to the trains pass by my office building

reading: forms and applications for work

watching: Criminal Minds..is it crazy that it spooks the heck out of me, but I still love it?

eating: crackers and Boursin cheese..yum

drinking: water ... water...water....

wearing: my fav zebra flats!

feeling: moody..but super happy its a Friday!

weather: raining, grey & windy..

playing: with travel themed scrapbook supplies

wanting: my farmer to come in to the city for once so I don't have to drive this weekend

needing: to get rid of this mild cold I caught last weekend

missing: my Grandpa Petrick, who passed away 13 years ago today..and I still think about him almost daily

waiting: to be done my office career in 44 days!

enjoying: popcorn...lots and lots of popcorn!

thankful: for everybody and everything I have ever been given in my life

Modern day Snow White

2011-06-09T12:16:00.000-06:00

When I was a little girl, my parents took me to my aunt's house with no other explanation other than they had a surprise for me. When we arrived, I walked in to see a baby fawn strolling around her living room! It had been rejected by its mother after hunters got too close and placed their scent on it and a few people got together to arrange for it to be transported to the Calgary Zoo. And since it was needing a home for a day or two, my aunty opened up her place and that allowed me to get up close and personal with my own version of Bambi.

I have always been grateful for that experience! Not many people can say they get to play with a fawn (nor should they, as its always dangerous for an animal if humans get too close). I've talked about that day a lot lately, especially now that I'm out in the country a lot with my farmer. And just the other day, I was complaining to Adam that I hadn't seen a fawn yet..which worried me considering our winter was so harsh this year! But last night, on my way home..I found this little baby stumbling across the highway

I turned off the highway to make sure it was okay and found it laying against a fence, calling out for its mama. When I noticed there was another couple keeping watch of the fawn I went to talk to them and this little thing just ran towards me. I tried escaping it, knowing what human scent could do to it, but it wouldn't leave my side. It was young, it was hungry and I'm betting it was scared. Once the police and bylaw showed up, another lady came and told us that the exact same thing happened the day before and she called Fish & Wildlife. She fed it baby formula and put it under a tree as directed, but yesterday it was still roaming around, trying to find its mom. It had been surrounded by people for at least 2 days and before I knew it..this happened..

I don't promote this..please don't think I do. But I have a huge, soft heart and when a baby fawn needs some love, I can't refuse it. It kissed my chin, snuggled up to me and wouldn't leave my side! Every once in awhile it would try to walk back towards the highway, but we kept it close to us, to make sure nothing happened. After 45 minutes, Fish & Wildlife came..they just wanted to put it under a tree again and let nature take its course...I wasn't happy with that!

The policeman that was with us spoke up and made his concerns known about the dangers of causing an accident on the highway and so F&W packed the fawn up in a kennel and moved it to a nearby park that is more sheltered and known to house deer. I felt better, but still not satisfied

All night I laid awake, wondering if the fawn was safe. Did it find its momma? Was the momma dead? Did another herd take it in and keep it safe? Would it be there, in the dark, scared, hungry and crying for its mom? Or is it safe? Did someone take it to a rescue sanctuary? It burdened me all night. I woke up with puffy eyes, imagining the fate of my little Bambi and drove to the park to ease my mind. The fawn was nowhere to be seen, nor was it anywhere near the highway! This made me a little relieved/a little worried. But in my mind, it found its momma and is now hiding somewhere, safe and sound!

I am so blessed I got to be so close to such sweet wildlife twice in my lifetime. What an amazing experience!

Photo Challenge: Day 1!!

2011-06-01T19:37:00.001-06:00

Happy June 1st Folks!
Can you believe it? Its June!! Our weather has definitely been all over the map lately...warm, cold, warm and lots & lots of rain! But nevertheless..its June..summer is around the corner..and I'm going to make every sun-filled day last!!

As I had posted yesterday, I am participating in a 30 day photo challenge for the month of June that I found posted on my new favorite obsession: Pinterest. Today's challenge was to take a self portrait..and here is mine!

After very little sleep last night I realized this photo made me look very, very tired! With that being said I overexposed my photo and even lightened it some more to give it a bit more of an airy feel :) Day 1 - Completed!

30 Day Photo Fun Challenge!

2011-05-31T00:30:00.000-06:00

Morning Everyone!

So I found this on Pinterest the other day and knew it was something I wanted to participate in! I'm a sucker for anything to do with photography, so I know this "challenge" will be so much fun for me!

Tomorrow is June 1st and with that..my first photo challenge: Self Portrait!!

Planting Day

2011-05-30T11:28:00.000-06:00

What an incredible weekend I had! Saturday was full of camera fun with friends and family and then yesterday, the sun finally popped out long enough for me to have a planting morning with my niece, Makiya. Her mom, Jodie is not a gardener but any means and as I enjoy having a green thumb, I felt it was my duty as her aunt to show her how much fun it could be!

For Easter, I bought Makiya her own set of gardening tools and a packet of sunflowers & Zinnia's (2 of the easiest seeds to plant!). Then yesterday..we got to work!

I am so very proud of her! She worked so hard for me..digging up the dirt, planting the seeds, playing with worms..very, very impressive!

When I look at these photos, all I can think about was how she kept grunting when she would dig or would fall forward from the amount of force she would get that dirt out of our way! Such a sweet helper!

With my time left living in the city narrowing down, I'm very excited to spend as much time as I can with my loved ones. Especially this little stinker!! And, in the next 3 weeks she will be a big sister to a little brother or sister!! I can't wait to see her grow .. just like the little seeds we planted together ;)

Friday!

2011-05-20T14:38:00.000-06:00

Hey folks!

Just wanted to pop in quickly and wish you all an amazing weekend! I have my dear friends bridal shower tomorrow and then I'm off to the farm for the long weekend here that us Canadians are super excited for!

Also, just to share some good news, I received HAPPY MAIL today in my inbox from none other than the fabulous Susan Opel at Paper Crafts magazine. I submitted 16 cards for their special Card a Day issue and wasn't feeling overly confident..but they accepted one of my projects!! SO giddy!! YAY!!!!

Have a great weekend everyone! Happy Crafting!!

Currently

2011-05-19T12:28:00.002-06:00

I am so in love with the lists I've been reading on blogs lately..just a record of whats going on at that exact moment in your life...and with that being said:

Currently:

listening: to the sound of silence in my office

reading: I need a new book for the summer, hmm

watching: Law & Order: SVU ..I've PVR'd it and not afraid to admit it, I'm obsessed!

eating: Sour Cream Noodle Bake from PW herself..so yummy!

drinking: water ... and loving it!

wearing: the only sweater I could get out of my dresser drawer this morning..ugh, need to get that fixed ASAP!

feeling: foggy from allergy pills, but really, really happy in life

weather: grey, windy and raining...welcome Spring! hehe

playing: with scrapbook supplies daily

wanting: my farmer

needing: to lose that little extra weight I've been gaining since last year!

waiting: for my new niece/nephew to make their appearance next month!

enjoying: Skype with Adam

thankful: for my family & my friends

Feels like yesterday

2011-05-18T10:17:00.000-06:00

It feels like yesterday that I was sitting beside my grandma, telling her all about my life as a 13 year old. I had a fresh new perm in my hair that she complimented me on as I filled her in on all the trials and tribulations of being a teenager in the 90's. The day I am talking about was a sunny day in May 1997, my grandma was in the hospital, fighting a losing battle. I didn't know it that day, but it would be my last conversation that I would ever have with my grandma. I sat with her for hours, just the two of us. And when it was time to leave, I got up, kissed her cheek, then stood at the end of her bed and told her I loved her. She smiled. And I was gone. And just like that, so was she. She was my first loss & its been incredibly hard for our family..but it still feels like just yesterday she was here

This is my grandma's graduation photo from 1945, wasn't she beautiful?

My grandma lived an amazing life. When she was younger she was (apparently) an amazing swing dancer and loved having a good time. She met my grandpa just out of school and they fell madly in love with each other! They had 4 children, my father being their baby and lived a simple, yet incredible love story. One that I envied for most of my life! My grandma is also a symbol of strength for me, she battled polio, cancer, a leg amputation & a tracheotomy in her life..and she remained strong throughout it all. She is my hero.

Her favorite flower was the lilac, and every time I see one or smell one I can't help but allow my thoughts to drift to her..she was beautiful, she was strong, she was loved, she was my grandma and my role model. 14 years ago today she left us for a better place. But every Spring, a lilac blooms and she lingers in their scent..

Weekend Thru the Lens

2011-05-09T10:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday everyone!!

I hope you all had an amazing weekend and all you mom's enjoyed a special Mother's Day yesterday! I made cards for both my momma & my future mother in law - both of which I love very much! Last night we celebrated at my parents' house with pizza & ice cream cake! YUM!

This weekend I was off to the farm to spend time with my farmer *grin*. We worked very hard as the season finally began! Saturday we sprayed 1100 acres in the sprayer .. a very long, 14 hour day sitting in the buddy seat did nothing for my muscles..but I came home smiling, and thats all that mattered!

This is Adam's new sprayer - he's pretty proud of it!! It measures 120ft wide and runs pretty smoothyl..when not hitting holes, crevices, rocks, etc hehehe

During the day we would get sprinkled on every now and then, but then the sun would always come out afterwards. And, to my delight, my first rainbow of the season appeared and it was every bit as beautiful as I remembered!

One of my favorite "finds" of the day were these little duck nests hidden amongst the fields. Adam was very careful not to disturb them and it was always fun counting the eggs and seeing the ducks keep a close eye on us to ensure their future young were taken care of

You know what's really lovely? Sitting out in the middle of nowhere and hearing nothing but the sound of the breeze blowing by the songbirds whistling around you .. *sigh* just perfect!

And at the end of the day the boys did their maitenance and cleaning up of the equipment while I walked around taking photos (of course) and when I turned around..I saw the sun beginning to set and caught this:

Now to me, that's just plain beautiful!

And yesterday we began seeding!! Adam was looking over his plans and figuring out how much liquid fert to mix up..he just looked so cute to me..one of my favorite photos of him to date!! What a great weekend we had!! Now its back to work and counting down the days til next time I can be back at the farm! (12 days to go!)

Friday Randoms

2011-05-06T10:41:00.000-06:00

Has this not been the longest week ever? And still .. its only half way thru the morning!! I'm sitting here, antsy to get on the road to see my farmer this weekend..and time is seriously craaawwwling..ugh

BUT the good news?

A) Its Friday {as previously mentioned}
B) Its sunny out; and
C) Its going to be a beautiful weekend!

This weekend I will be sitting in what is known as the "buddy" seat, next to my farmer while we spray & seed the fields for this years' crops. As I met Adam last Spring, this will be my first seeding experience..and although its not everyone's cup of tea..I'm actually excited! Last August I spent 5 hours riding around with Adam, spraying a field of weeds, and honestly? Loved every minute of it! Thats what's so cool about A & I, we can do anything and have a blast, as long as we're together! *sigh* .. I miss him

5 on 5

2011-05-05T15:38:00.000-06:00

Its the 5th of May already! Can you believe it? Summer will be here before we know it {and judging from the exceedingly warm temps outside, I'd venture to guess sooner than we thought!} I'll be heading off to the farm tomorrow for the weekend and have much to do before then, but thought I'd stop in and share 5 randoms with you for the 5th day of the 5th month!!

reading: Something Borrowed {can't wait to see the movie!}

eating: Popcorn - every day! I have been doing this since as long as I can remember {truly my favorite food!}

wearing: brown turtleneck, brown trousers and the cutest brown mary jane wedges {woo hoo!}

wanting: my farmer :( I really, really miss him!

enjoying: the beautiful Spring weather we are having and seeing all my perennials benefitting from it!

What are your 5 randoms for the 5th day of the 5th month?

The Sights & Sounds of Spring!

2011-05-03T10:18:00.000-06:00

It is definitely Spring here .. finally!! Every day I take some time to enjoy the fresh Spring air .. I open my windows to freshen up the house and spend time outside with Jakey either playing catch or digging around in my garden. Yesteryday while Jakey and I were chillin on the grass, I took a moment to listen to everything that was happening around me .. it was peaceful, it was inspiring .. it was life!

I could hear the sound of lawn mowers throughout the neighborhood, the smell of fresh cut grass, the sound of a gentle breeze whisking thru the green grass and most importantly the song birds who have finally come home for the season, it was beautiful! And then .. because it was rather warm out .. I heard the sound of this...

*pant* *pant* *pant*

he always knows how to ruin the moment...

Oh well .. back to my story!! Since Jakey here has ruined my beautiful *sounds* of Spring bit .. I just went to shoot some images of the everyday happenings of our life yesterday ...

Yeah, we like to cuddle .. it makes Jakey feel loved and keeps me smiling when my farmer can't be around

and my tulips are starting to bud!! I reckon we'll have beautiful yellow tulips by the end of the week!!

While yellow is my favorite color .. I must say green comes to a close 2nd .. gee, do you think? hehe I never loved color as much when I was younger, I went straight for blacks, navy and the odd white .. but now that I'm a little older and more aware of what I like .. I go straight for color! Can you tell by the color of my kitchen? {love it!!}

What a wonderful day we had *sigh* now today will be more organizing the house & getting it ready to list, maybe work on a few more projects for submission and possibly a chick flick .. as today it is raining out..the perfect Spring weather to bring on my flowers :) Happy Crafting everyone!

Happy May!!

2011-05-02T09:30:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone!

How were your weekends? Mine was really productive and fun! Friday we went out and celebrated my news with wings & Caesars at my favorite pub, Rossco's. It was really fun to catch up with my family but I really wished Adam could've been there.. it just wasn't the same without him!

Then Saturday we started cleaning, fixing, organizing and working on my home to get it ready to list. This is very bittersweet for me as I love my home..I think its beautiful and a true reflection of me. I hope it sells quickly and smoothly..but it will still be hard for me to walk away after all the blood & sweat we poured in to it just one year ago.

Then Sunday was a relaxation day for me, I slept in much later than I normally ever do, ate breakfast, watched a movie, cleaned my basement, did some laundry, recycled old magazines and headed up to mom and dad's for Sunday night supper with my family. All in all, a great weekend! Very productive but also very fun!! What were you up to?

I have a few more calls for submissions that are coming up and I would like to submit for, so my plan this week to is to keep cleaning & organizing my basement, keep up with our walks after work, get creating for publications and of course .. take more time for this

because, really, that's what is truly important in life

Friday Randoms

2011-04-29T15:09:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone!

Happy last Friday of April & Happy Royal Wedding Day!! Have you all been watching *the* wedding? I haven't seen the whole event myself..but have caught glimpses and viewed the dress and it really truly is a fairytale come true! *sigh* I am so, so excited for today!! So much to say...and with that, my Friday randoms

- It has been raining all day here and is not showing any signs of stopping .. but its a warm(ish) kind of rain and either way, it couldn't steal my sunshine today .. nope, uh uh .. not with my giddiness ;)
- Watching William and Kate get married this morning only cause me to get even more excited about my upcoming nuptials in November!! I have SO much to plan and do .. and now I cannot wait!!!!
-Okay .. here's why I am just so excited .. are you ready??

I'M GETTING PUBLISHED AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Remember how I've been working on my submissions for Paper Crafts' Holiday Cards & More issue? Well today was happy mail day and I received one at noon!! 5 of my projects have been picked for publishing! 5!!! YAHOO!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you PC .. I heart you!!

So tonight my family will be going out to dinner and I will be celebrating!! Adam can't be here this weekend which saddens me as its just not the same without him, but we will Skype later tonight and have a mini celebration of our own!

Alright, now that I can breathe and relax .. I just wanted to stop in and share my news with you .. have a great weekend everyone!!!!!

Thankful

2011-04-21T11:28:00.000-06:00

With tomorrow being a holiday, today is officially a "Friday" for me! I'm gearing up for another busy weekend at the farm plus our annual Easter Egg hunt here in town with all my family. The family Easter egg hunt is a tradition in our family .. one that I never want to see end! We have a home video from 1989 in my grandparents' back yard .. I was 5 & kinda cute and the video makes me smile, giggle and tear up every time I look at it. Traditions are important. Hugely important. Please don't ever stop them in your family, please create new ones and work hard at keeping them in your lives!

I'm a little sentimental today. You may have noticed ;)

Currently, I am going thru all the photographs of the 27 years I've been on this Earth. Some make me cringe, some make me want to find a match, but most make me smile and bring me back to all sorts of days when life seemed never-ending and simple! For these ones, I am thankful. I am thankful that someone thought to pick up the camera and take those shots, I am thankful that those days existed to create these memories and I am thankful that I grew up in such a loving home!

And now that I'm older, I'm thankful for this man

He is seriously everything to me .. he makes me laugh, he makes me feel loved, he gets me and I get him and he takes really, really good care of me. Every girl wants to marry someone like her daddy when they are older..and let me tell you, he's "The One" .. words cannot express how truly, madly, deeply I am in love with this man ..my beau, my farmer, my hubby-to-be!

And of course, I'm thankful for this little man

He is a furball, a lab, a puppy at heart and my baby. I adopted him almost 4 years ago now from the local animal shelter..and let me tell you, I think he's saved me more than I ever saved him! He is my constant companion, my buddy, my fellow foodie and snuggle buddy. He gets me out walking, we have one sided conversations often and when I made the big decision to leave my 9 year relationship and start fresh..I couldn't have done it without him! I don't fear living alone because he protects me, he waits for me til I come home from work every day, he guards our home and he loves me unconditionally. *sigh*

And this

I'm thankful for this relationship..this amazing, amazing relationship! I envied my grandparents and my parents..they had a love I thought I would never attain .. but I watched, I listened, I learned and I went with my gut and I found him..the love of my life. There is a peace that now exists in my life, its comforting and exciting and we are going to have an amazing life together, we just know it ;)

Wherever you are .. I hope you have a lot to be thankful for today too!! Have a great Easter weekend everyone..Happy Crafting!

Friday Randoms

2011-04-15T11:55:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday everyone!!

We went an entire week without snow!! (knock on wood). Although the weekend temps are still looking a little cool & windy, it still promises to be a great weekend to do a lot of Spring cleaning and organizing of the flower beds! Adam is on his way in to town as I type this and we have a VERY long to do list awaiting us!! This weekend we are cleaning up the yard, taking down the Christmas lights (finally) and taking a load out to the dump from my interior Spring cleaning. Then we are shopping for things like toilets, bathtubs, showers & sinks for the new place PLUS a few wedding errands as well ;)

And with that, here are my Friday randoms.

- Today is the 2 year anniversary of my daddio being cancer free!! Its a huge, huge day and definitely something worth celebrating!! 2 years ago my dad was under the knife in Calgary and my mom, my aunt and I spent the day out and about, trying to take our minds off of everything that was happening. We shared a few laughs and a lot of tears that day..and now looking back, I am so grateful for the way everything has turned out

- I am working hard at purging my home and cleaning like a mad woman, for I plan to list it on the market for May 1st..the decision is bittersweet for me as I love the home I have created in the past year, but I am excited to move on to the next chapter of my life with my future husband and our new home!

-I have now successfully submitted 18 projects in to Paper Crafts Holiday Cards & More magazine..my fingers are crossed as this is something I have wanted for years..April 29th is when the acceptance emails will be sent out..please cross your fingers with me!!

- I am cooking up a nice dinner for Adam and myself tonight..complete with homemade brownies for dessert (my specialty) .. was pretty ashamed when I realized we've been together 10 months now and I can count on one hand how many meals I've actually cooked for him ;) Don't get me wrong..I actually think I have a pretty valid "excuse" .. most weekends I'm there at the farm so we eat with his family, and when he comes to me, its a treat for him to go out to restaurants or we eat with my family! My..how my life is going to change in just 4.5 months!!

Alright folks..looks like that's all for me this week!! Have a super awesome weekend, enjoy the sunshine (if you get any) and I will see you next week! Happy Crafting everyone!!

Garden Planning

2011-04-14T14:43:00.000-06:00

Last summer was my first in my new home and I was bound and determined to slowly but surely turn it in to my beloved, an English Cottage garden! I worked tirelessly researching the right plants and watching my yard for shady and sunny spots, weeding, planting, staking...it never ended! And I loved every minute of it!

Now with Spring on the horizon, a gardener's thoughts turn to the outdoors and visions of peonies dance in our heads...I'm so excited to see what has survived this brutal winter of ours! My tulips are now a good 2.5" up from the ground in my backyard..and my lilacs are in full bud..I will be checking in on the rest of my "brood" in the week to come, but right now we are under a wind/rain warning so I think I'll leave that task for a few more days! And since this will be my last summer gardening at this house (its bittersweet), I have plans to lovingly care for all the plantings I researched and bought just one Spring ago (seems so soon to give them up!)..plus I'll add a few sprinkles of plant seeds in the back, just for good measure!

now that its Spring, what are you anxious for?

Photo: Jupiterimages

Friday Randoms

2011-04-08T09:21:00.000-06:00

Morning Everyone!!

It has been feeling more and more like Spring lately here..til of course we woke up to more snow on the ground this morning ..

..UGH!

But thankfully there isn't too much and it'll melt by noon with the warm temps we've been getting! What are your plans for this weekend? I'll be home - cleaning, purging and creating!! I am working hard on my Holiday Cards & More submissions (due on April 25th!) fingers crossed I can pull it off and get published again!! (One of my 2011 resolutions!)

Other than that, here are a few other random happenings in my life:

- I have a sick puppy (again). Came home to another mess in my basement yesterday and quite a few bathroom runs during the middle of the night! I'm keeping my fingers crossed he'll be alright while I'm at work today :(
- There are 211 more days left til I'm a Mrs ;)
- Further to my previous comment, I'm having a little trouble with my inevitable name change in Fall - do I hyphenate my name? Or completely drop my maiden name? Hmmm
- We are having our annual family Easter Egg Hunt on the 24th again this year and I am so, so SO excited! I love our family gatherings..traditions are good for the soul!
- Since I am working on submissions for PC's Holiday Idea book, I figured I needed to get in to the Christmas spirit so popped in my favorite holiday cd .. Adam found this rather hilarious and now I am wondering if I in fact do the love the holidays a tad too much?!

Other than that .. my life is crazy, busy and very exciting!! I am looking forward to a productive weekend and I hope you have a wonderful one yourselves!! with that, I'll leave you with a wedding card a created last month for one of the many weddings we have coming up this summer!

All products used are Making Memories :)

Happy Crafting Everyone!

Overwhelmed

2011-04-07T08:22:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning feeling slightly overwhelmed with all the things on my to do list! I have Spring cleaning on my brain and of course after a long, cold winter my house is in dire need of some attention! Items have been dispersed around the house in a disorderly fashion and I find myself stepping over things just to get across my basement! It simply will not do any longer!

And now with a full free weekend ahead of me (beau will be staying at the farm and me in the city) I am looking forward to a weekend spent on my house, purging, organizing and cleaning .. and oddly enough its exciting! I can't wait to have a nicely clean house..ready to shine!

And because I can't leave you without a photo..here is a pic of my boy Simon and I out at the farm a few weeks ago..*sigh* I love my dogs!

Refreshing

2011-04-05T22:09:00.000-06:00

I had such an amazing night tonight! After work I went and stocked up on some much needed groceries - and I know that this seems like a chore to so many people, but I for one LOVE grocery shopping! Restocking my shelves and trying new things always excites me!! Nothing like a fully stocked pantry to make this girl smile :)

Then, once home I tried a new recipe from P Dub and I have to say..it was heaven on a plate! So easy peasy to make (my favorite kind) and tastey!! Look at what I did!! I turned all this...

In to this!! Mmmm...

Then, after cleaning up the kitchen I headed out with this guy:

handsome lil devil ain't he?

To pick up his "presents" before garbage day and I am proud to say that although it took me 3 days to do it..my yard is completely clean now with not one speck of poop in it! A first since I don't know when..

I just did a happy dance..

Okay..anyways :) THEN to my delight...I found these..

After all the snow and cold and drudgery...Spring is actually here..my tulips have broken ground and I was so giddy I had to run inside to grab my camera after taking some pics with my phone and sending them to Adam to prove how wonderful of a gardener I must be ;)

And then I was on a mission..what else could I find growing? Sure enough..my lilacs are in full bud too!!

Also I found a peony shoot in the ground (YAY) .. but didn't photograph it..sorry but my hands were already dirty from mucking around!! I am so excited though...I have so many plans going on in my head..I can't wait to get growing!!

Now its bed time for me..I have a phone date with my beau and then tomorrow is another new day!! Have a great night everyone!

Happy April 1st!!

2011-04-01T10:55:00.000-06:00

This morning I woke up to the most beautiful sunrise, it was a perfect blue sky frosted with pinks, lavenders, oranges and yellows ..and while I was outside snapping photos of said sunrise .. it hit me, I was standing outside in my pj's with no coat on ..and was comfortable! Does that mean? .. Could it be? Spring? Yes..I think it is!! Well yes, Mr Weatherman has threatened us poor Albertans with yet another winter storm watch for the weekend .. but its in the pluses this week and I have no fear that Spring has actually sprung.

While talking with my mom yesterday I found out that both her and my grandma have seen some perennials popping up already .. I ran out to check my garden..and sadly nothing to report ... yet! But now that warmer weather is here my thoughts have shifted from the dark doldrums of winter to all that is green and fresh! I planted my beds with as many cottage plants as it could possibly hold, so this year I'm excited to see what survived and what will finally bloom now that it is in its second year .. peonies, roses, foxgloves, lupines...oh goodness I can't wait!!

And speaking of cottage gooness..I came across this mosaic last Spring and fell in love with every.single.image..it just ..ack, I can't stand it!!

Photo: My Romantic Home

And what's even better than this? the realization that next year I will have an entire farm yard to make this a possibility! Ohhh ...just you wait SK, I have BIG plans for you!!

Inspired

2011-03-29T12:25:00.001-06:00

It doesn't take much for me to completely fall head over heels in love with something I see .. especially when its paper. Or stamps. Or pretty colors. Or a mixture of them all! Today, while browsing Pinterest (my new favorite love), I came across some of Mish Mash's creations..and WHUMP!

{that was me falling off my chair}

Photo from Mish Mash herself

Like..hello gorgeous!! this single post alone has reignited my passion for sewing and buttons..and yumminess! The colors alone make me giddy..I am vowing to live in a world full of these colors from now on :) Visions of creations for new babies, Spring, Summer, gardening...ack...

Needless to say my poor bank account was violated once again by the purchase of this beautiful stamp set .. {at first I wondered how I could've missed it, but then realized that it was released while I was on vacay}.. so "oh yes wait a minute mr. postman hey hey hey hey" .. i'll be waiting for you!!

Monday Randomness

2011-03-28T15:17:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Hope all your weekends were fabulous :) I can actually say I really didn't do much Friday night or Sunday and Saturday I took a shopping road trip with some fabulous ladies to Calgary about 2.5 hours away .. it is always fun when us girls get together and hit the road..you never know what you'll end up talking about or who will makes us laugh the most, but I can definitely say this trip did NOT disappoint!

And since I have tons of new cards to showcase but not one on this computer to download..I leave you with some Monday randomness:

- It finally started acting like Spring this past weekend - but alas, it isn't to be just yet..there are snowflakes falling on the ground as I type :(
- I think I'm having some major B12 issues lately..I'm always sleepy and have very little energy .. must. increase.dosage. ASAP!
- I haven't seen my beau in 8 days now and I miss him so very, very much ..damn you SK winter storms!
- I finally found my dream yellow purse at Winners the other day and quickly snatched it up..only to leave a nice blue ink mark on it shortly thereafter...any ideas how to get ink out of leather?!? PLEASE?!
- I lost 2 lbs last week .. *sigh* if only that were enough
- I'm intrigued by the thought of merging my two loves of cardmaking and photography - I'm not knowledgeable in Photoshop so could be interesting..but love thinking about possibilities!!

Well thats all the randoms I can pull out of my head today...have a great evening everyone!

Spring Forward

2011-03-13T09:30:00.001-06:00

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

YAY!! Its getting closer to warm sunshine-filled days!!

Another hour of daylight is upon us!! Have a great Sunday everyone!!

I'm still alive!!!!

2011-03-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

Yes I know I said I was going away to California for two weeks and it has now been 5 weeks since I was physically on this 'ol blog-o..but, well .. life has been BUSY!! I have sooo much to share and some really, really exciting news that I will be sharing in my next post.. PROMISE!

Until then, California was amazing :) A dream vacation and I loved it very, very much. I took just under 1,000 photos and we created many beautiful memories along the way! But, unfortunately all vacations have to end at some point and I came home to a nasty chest cold and well..bitter cold winter weather..I don't know about the rest of the world but we here in the Prairies of Canada are getting miserable..its cold, it keeps snowing..and we just want it to be done! I am craving Spring so bad..the warmth of the sun, the sight of green grass and green tendrils poking out of the soil..the smell of life again..I want to get out in my flower beds and work the soil, squishing dirt between my toes as I mosey along..pretty please Spring..don't be late!

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T06:00:00.002-07:00

I wrote this post before we left for California on the 5th of February..just wanted to stop in and make sure I wished you all a very

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

{Photo courtesy of Pinterest}

Inspired

2011-02-11T00:00:00.001-07:00

I had to include this "quote" in my February "Love List" .. how could I not? There have been a lot of changes in my life path this past year and I know they are only going to continue changing..but this quote, this sign..its left me inspired. Why stick to the same ol, same ol..when you could do something amazing? I don't know what all is in store for me in this life..but I guarantee sitting at a desk, surrounded by boring paperwork and financials is NOT what I was made for! So..here it is, "Do what you love and love what you do"

The "One"

2011-02-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

My February "Love List" would not even come close to the truth if I didn't dedicate at least one post to this man:

He is my farmer, my beau..the only man that could ever compare to my daddio..he is definitely, "The One". We met in May of last year and after the second date, I knew he was the man I will some day marry. He makes me laugh, he makes me smile and when I'm with him..the entire world just fades away...(sorry for the mush, but it is Valentine's Day next week!)

So..although it would appear he is #9 on my Love List..I'm pretty sure we all know where he truly ranks ;)

Marshmallow Hearts

2011-02-07T00:00:00.005-07:00

Hiya folks!!

#7 on my Love List...hot chocolate and marshmallow hearts...need I say more?

I picture myself walking in to the sweetest bakery and ordering a hot chocolate..only to find this..aww, who would't love this?!

Crafty Get Togethers

2011-02-05T00:00:00.001-07:00

It's finally here!! The day we take off for sunny California :) We have been planning and waiting for this day for months..I never thought it would arrive! With that being said, any blog posts that appear between now and February 22nd are all pre-written and scheduled..(didn't want to leave things too quiet over here in blogland!)

And carrying on with my February "Love List"..Day 5 is all about crafty get togethers! I don't know if you have noticed, but craft groups are showing up everywhere in magazines this month! From Country Living (UK), Martha Stewart and even Better Homes & Gardens! Unfortunately, I do not have many people in my circle at the moment that I could host these kinds of events with..but I'm determined to find some! Being creative and making crafts is always fun for me..but being around other inspirational crafters would make the experience so much more meaningful!

Photo: Martha Stewart February 2011 issue

The blogging community is an amazing resource for finding inspirational crafters that you can identify with and, if given the chance, I can only imagine what my "dream team" would be if I could select a group of crafters to spend the day with, making cards and getting glittered up with...Melissa Phillips, anyone? That would.be.awesome!

Do you attend craft workshops? Have a group of friends that meets regularly to work on fun projects with? If so..I envy you! If, like me, you are still searching for that group..why not take a chance and create your own? Attend a workshop at your LSS and find crafters that you just "click" with..you never know where it could lead! Some times its best just to work alone..clear your mind and relax..but, as we all know..some times you just need a few friends to make it better ;)

Blessed

2011-02-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

I woke up this morning, a very lucky girl. Today is my 27th Birthday and I feel completely blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful, inspiring and loving people! This morning I awoke and was so undescribably happy, I was actually crying tears of joy..the gift I received this morning is more heartfelt, more touching, more meaningful than any other gift I will ever receive in my life. This gift is personal and won't be shared here on this blog..but know that what was given to me is something I will cherish for the rest of my life.

And as today is a work day I am here at my office surrounded by my coworkers, (friends) and they have spoiled me rotten and reminded me that I am very loved! Also, Adam came in to town last night and will be spending the day getting us ready for our big trip which starts tomorrow..this California roadtrip is going to be a once in a lifetime event and I cannot wait to live every moment of it!! How is it that I am so blessed to have this all in my life? I am so thankful..so grateful and so excited for my 27th year!

Tonight we will be celebrating with my family and closest friends over dinner at my parents' home with cake and presents to follow..what a lucky girl I am!!!

Have an amazing Friday everyone :)

February Love List..

2011-02-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to the 2nd day of February..and Day 2 of my Love List!! Today I have a very sweet idea to share with you from CakeSpy ... Mail and Ship Cupcakes!!

I personally LOVE baking cupcakes and because it seems to be more rare every day to bake from scratch, I know I have quite a few people on my list that would appreciate this kind of mail in amongst their bills!!

Who wouldn't love to receive this? A freshly baked, moist cupcake in a cute little jar..ready to devour! I am definitely in love with this!!

Happy February!!

2011-02-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of February today, a month which I have personally coined as "The Love Month". Although I will be out of the country from the 5th to the 21st, I plan on dedicating this month on my blog to everything "love"..photos I love, cards I love, Valentine's Day, you name it!!

To ring in this lovely month, I thought I would focus on a new book I picked up at Michaels that has seriously recharged my thinking of starting my own cottage industry. "The Handmade Marketplace" by Kari Chapin is..amazing. A must read and definitely something I am currently in love with!

This book is a must read for any crafter wanting to earn an income from their craft. It helps pick you up from your early beginnings, guides you through setting up a business, helps you with selling at craft fairs and how to become a success. I especially loved the Creative Collective..a resource pool of ingenious crafters who have become successful and provides you with tips on how to better your own business!

Seriously, if you haven't read this book yet...you are missing out!! Pick it up today, I promise you will love it!

Brrrr

2011-01-31T13:48:00.001-07:00

Okay..California could not come any sooner!! Last week we were above 0..today, -27 (thats -14 F, I believe)..it is COLD! I'm starting to think I could pull out my Christmas stamps again and they would feel right at home with this weather! A couple of coworkers and I walked 2 blocks for lunch and I honestly thought I would lose an ear..this is horrible! This morning, I let Jakey outside to do his thing and the poor thing (okay, he is a suck, but still!) he was stumbling towards the door, holding one paw up and switching it to another..they were so cold he couldn't walk anymore! He got to the door and just kind of slumped over, I had to pick his rump up and pull him inside! Yes, he is a spoiled 80lb doggy..but I don't care :)

Needless to say my Monday has not started off so well, besides the fact that it is so cold out: a) my car wouldn't start this morning so I had to call 3 coworkers before finally calling my dad to come drive me to work, b) I came to work only to find an error that occurred on Friday needed my immediate attention; and c) I still have this dang head cold! But I'm going to stay positive..after all, a week from today I will be soaking up San Francisco, CA...how many Albertans can say that?!

I hope you are all having a much better Monday than I am and I hope you are able to keep warm if you have been hit by this cold front as well :) I have a busy week ahead of me! I need to pack for our vacation, tidy up loose ends at work and its my Birthday on Friday..I will be 27 and loving it :) Have a great day everyone..Happy Crafting!

Be Mine, Valentine...CR84FN Challenge 13

2011-01-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

How was your weekend? We are back in the midst of winter again :( It started snowing Friay night and hasn't quit yet! Temperatures have plummeted 25 degrees and the roads are icy nightmares! Compare this with my head cold that has developed and you can bet I stayed in all weekend long! There are some definite advantages to my staying in..laundry is caught up, house is clean and I got quite crafty with all my spare time!

Speaking of craftyness...on to this week's CR84FN Challege (#13) and my second time participating!! This week's colors are Brown, Red and Teal...yummy! And with Valentine's Day being 15 days away..I could hardly resist making a valentine for someone sweet on my list..

Above is this week's challenge, and below is my take on these beautiful colors!!

What do you think? I used PTI's Kraft CS for my base as well as their Hawaiian Shores and Dark Chocolate! The polka dot paper is from Michaels (love it!) And the fun border is also from PTI, which I ran through with my Cuttlebug

I used Betsy Veldman's idea of faux embossing on the Dark Chocolate with PTI heart dies and the sentiment is from PTI's 2010 Love Tags stamp set

And of course I couldn't forget my envelope!! Since this card is for a very special valentine of mine (my little niece) I decorated it with a heart doily from Michaels, some red/white twine and a postage stamp, also from PTI's 2010 Love Tags stamp set!

Thank you so much for checking out my little creation! Take care, have a great week and Happy Crafting everyone!

Happy Sunday

2011-01-30T06:00:00.002-07:00

To me, Sundays are for family and loved ones..relaxation and movie dates cuddled up on the couch. And if it were Spring, picnics on the park!

{Photo via Pinterest}

Happy Sunday Everyone!!

Friday Randoms

2011-01-28T09:22:00.001-07:00

It's finally Friday!!! Any big plans for you all? I will be staying home this weekend and packing for our vacation that is coming up in just 8 days!! the excitement is building..and we are very, very giddy!! This has been a very long week for many of us, not sure if its the weather or what..but I am so looking forward to sleeping in a little tomorrow morning!!

Not much to share with you all this morning, but here are a few of my Friday Randoms:

1) I started feeling a cold coming on last night, swollen throat and sneezing..but it didn't progress over night, so I'm hoping that's a good sign! I've been gurgling Listerine to keep the sore throat at bay..fingers crossed!
2) Adam is finishing pouring concrete in the dome home today..when he's done today he will have officially poured 320 yards of concrete!! That's a lotta mud people!
3) I bought the book, "The Handmade Marketplace" at Michaels this week and I am soaking it up like a sponge! It is lighting a spark in me that I worried was lost forever..I am so excited by all the ideas swirling in my head now!
4) I want to craft full-time but have no idea if I have what it takes to make my dreams a reality..motivation is hard to come by for me lately..
5) I wake up every morning blessed that I met "The One"..I didn't think he existed, I thought it was a myth..but he does and he's mine and I'm giddy every day that I get to spend my life with him!
6) I'm ready for Spring..I need to look out my window and see green grass and beautiful flowers..I'm over this snow and dead stuff

And with that, I leave you a Spring fresh piglet..so cute!!

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

Happy Crafting everyone and have a great weekend!!!

Countdown to California

2011-01-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

The sun is starting to shine more, the temperatures have jumped a great deal and the days are getting longer..Spring is just around the corner!! I'm getting Spring fever..daffodils have been purchased and are brightening up my kitchen as we speak..and next week's big road trip to California is only going to make it worse! Adam and I are getting so excited..9 days to go!!

I told Adam this morning that I'm worried about going to California..worried that I might love it so much that I won't want to come back!! I love to travel..there are so many places on my bucket list to see..but something about California just calls to me...I am giddy just thinking about it ;)

And since the Golden Coast is on my brain today...I went to my daily inspiration site, Pinterest, and typed in California under their seach engine..and I found this unbelievably sweet California beach retreat ..now, in the past I have never been known to be a "pink" girl..but this color is growing on me immensely!!!

Now I'm wishing I incorporated pink in to one of my rooms in my home!! Hmmm...may have to think about that a little more ;) I printed this photo out and am adding it to my inspiration scrapbook..I'm going to have to create something with these color beauties!!

Have a great Thursday everyone..Friday is ALMOST here!! Happy Crafting!!

Celebrate the good things..CR84FN Challenge # 12

2011-01-25T09:29:00.003-07:00

Hey Everyone!!

I have been so inspired with the color goodies over at CR84FN that I just had to make a card for this week's challenge! And since it is one of my dearest friends' birthdays on Thursday..I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone ;)

This week's challenge was to use Kraft, Lavender and Light Pink..colors that my friend Jennie will absolutely love!

And with that inspiration..I created this:

I made my card base out of PTI's Kraft CS along with their Lavender Moon CS and some scrap DP from my bin (Cream is House of 3 and Pink is Imaginisce, I believe). The butterfly and heart where made from my "Love Lives Here" die collection from PTI while the sentiment is from the dollar bin at Michaels ;)

And of course I just had to use some of my Prima pearls..I love these accents with the rosettes..so beautiful!

On the inside I stamped a sentiment from PTI using Plum Pudding ink that states, " May your birthday be a joyful celebration of all that you are and all you dream to be" .. *sigh* .. just perfect!

And since I'm huge on packaging lately..I couldn't give this card away without pretty-ing up the envelope! I glued down a paper doily, adhered a Prima rose and tied some PTI twine around before addressing it to the recipient!! So excited to give this to her!!

Thank you so much for spending some time with me today..have a great Tuesday and, as always, Happy Crafting!!

Just your heart, in exchange for mine..

2011-01-24T14:25:00.001-07:00

This Valentine's Day will be our first as a couple..and we'll be spending it somewhere on the Golden Coast :) And because I wake up every morning, grateful that this amazing man has been placed in my life, I want to acknowledge it in a special way on Valentine's Day! And I have no idea how I'm going to do it yet :( So as I am perusing blogland daily, I come across inspirational bits (quotes, photos, etc) and I need a place to "store" them..so here we go :)

I found this quote today:

I think I love you. Is this love? I never imagined I'd know it for myself. My heart... It feels like my chest can barely contain it. Like it's trying to escape because it doesn't belong to me anymore. It belongs to you. And if you wanted it, I'd wish for nothing in exchange - no gifts. No goods. No demonstrations of devotion. Nothing but knowing you loved me too. Just your heart, in exchange for mine.

-Neil Gaiman

And it accompanied this photo on Etsy:

I love bleeding hearts..I have them in my own gardens and many photos such as these that I've taken..but..is it too girlie for my farmer?!? Nevertheless..I love it and am SO glad I found these bits of inspiration!! What are you doing for Valentine's Day?!?! We have 21 days left to plan!!

Weekend Recap

2011-01-24T11:58:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday Everyone!!

I had an amazing time out at the farm this past weekend and am still reeling with excitement over spending as much time as possible with my farmer :) We are inseperable and I wouldn't have it any other way!! We watched movies, cuddled, talked excitedly about our big trip that's coming up in just 12 days and we spent a lot of time with family. In fact, yesterday my parents made the 2.5 hour trip to come to the farm, meet the parents, see the new dome home in construction, broke some bread and shared a few laughs. It was amazing to see my family at the farm..an amazing feeling of joy filled me while looking at our two families as they came together. My two worlds have finally collided! The.Perfect.Weekend!

Unfortunately the drive home was less than favourable and the side road that gets us from the farm to the main #1 highway was a skating rink! I drove 60 km/hr on a road that usually sees me double that! And I was so thankful that my parents were right behind me, every step of the way! But, we made it home..safe and sound and thats all that matters!!

I have pictures on my camera that have yet to be downloaded on to my computer, so words will just have to do my experience justice for now!!

Other than that, I am busy working away at paperwork and deadlines that need to be completed before we take off next weekend and catch myself dreaming of warmer weather, which is just around the corner! With that, I will leave you with this beautiful photograph I found here:

Happy Monday and Happy Crafting Everyone!!

Inspired

2011-01-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone!!

I had about an hour to browse blogs today and I couldn't help but feel so inspired by the images from around the world, that I wanted to started collecting them for my own personal "image library". Often times, I click on one link that sends me to another and other and before I know it I end up with a photo and no source of how to find it again! It can be so frustrating!! So I'm going to try a new method of cataloging my loves...wish me luck ;)

Also, I love going to inspiring blogs such as Postcards and Pretties, the way they collage their inspiration is wonderfully delicious for someone like myself and although I'm new at the collaged image, I thought I'd show you some of my favorite love images from my search today..

Photo's Courtesy of TinyWhiteDaisieis

Forgive the black border..as I said earlier, I'm new at this! ;) But aren't these images some beauties? I want to crawl in to that teepee and eat fresh berries and drink champagne while planning my next big adventure...*sigh* .. oh right...

keep it movin'

Anywho..I have big changes coming in to my life in 2011.. BIG! And I think starting inspiration boards for focusing on my goals as I move through these changes will be the perfect medicine! I can't wait to see what I come up with! most often looking at other images inspires me and I can't figure out why..then I either print it out or move on and forget about it and I leave the inspiration in a dark corner of my brain, just waiting to be sparked again. I think its time to ignite that spark, don't you?

Whatever dream/inspiration it is you have been holding back on in your life..this is the year to see it come true. Breathe life in to it and live an inspired year with everything you do (easier said than done, I know!). I am going to sit down with the ideas swirling in my head, I'm going to pull them out, write them down, plan how to make them come true and see myself open doors to possibilities I never thought possible before! You should too!

And since I can't be all talk and no action on this blog, I'm going to list 3 personal goals of mine right here, right now {gulp}, here goes:

1) Get published in a paper crafts magazine, again. (My first published work was in Paper Crafts magazine's Sept/Oct 2010 issue!!)

2) Gear Tailored Sentiments towards generating my sole income; and

3) Design my own line of wrapping paper for Christmas 2011 (FUN!)

Okay...there it is, out in the blogworld for anyone and everyone to see...no taking it back now! Now its your turn..I can't wait to see you plan, focus and realize your dreams this year too! Keep a look out for more inspiration boards/images on this blog and Happy Crafting everyone!!

Longing for Life

2011-01-17T12:32:00.001-07:00

I'm writing this entry from my desk, which has a view of the cold snowy afternoon that is upon us. It has snowed and snowed and snowed and quite frankly..I'm ready for it to pack up and leave! Normally I love winter..sure, I could do without the cold..but I find the irridescent glow of the fallen snow beautiful and inspiring! But, once you've seen as much as we all have..it gets a little old :(

So..as my entry title suggests..I'm longing for life! I'm longing for the day when I can walk out my front porch and breathe in the dirt and the smell of the freshly cut grass and the life that happens all around us when flowers are in bloom..when life actually happens!

Thankfully this year I get a break..in just 19 days we are off to the Golden State..some place where I have never been and some place that I know will fill my soul with inspiration, beauty and a feeling of belonging. The more I research California, the more I realize I feel a kinship with this beautiful state..I feel like I could belong there and I'm so excited to take it all in, in just a few short weeks! I was laying in bed this morning thinking..I cannot believe I'm going to be in San Francisco in 3 weeks! I am going to Disneyland! I'm going to Venice, CA!! Its unbelievable!

Photo Courtesy of Flikr

And so, I'll be dreaming of Cali to get me through the next 3 weeks and if, when we get back, I'm still longing for life..I'll focus on photos like these..that make me giddy for Spring!!

Photo Source Unknown

Friday Randoms

2011-01-14T10:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Everyone!!

We are being bombarded by snow this week..it just won't go away! I hope to sneak out and take some photo's of all the white stuff..but until then, you'll just have to take my word for it! I usually plan on heading to the farm on Friday's, but due to the weather I think its best if I stay home and off the roads. So I will be busy visiting with my family and friends, cleaning my house, scrapbooking, making cards for my tradeshow in a couple of months and watching movies with Jakey :)

This has been a strange and very long week for me..in fact, this card I made on Monday describes me to a "T" about how I was this week!

Yep, just hand over the chocolate..and no one gets hurt. That's me alright! Work was emotionally draining and stressful and took a huge toll on me, but I made it through and I'm excited to move on :)

So, a few randoms for the day:

- I wish I could take the afternoon off for a "Snow Day", I'd cuddle up with some popcorn and pop in "Pride and Prejudice" with Kiera Knightley..my all time favorite Jane Austen movie to date!

- I am really, really bummed that I won't see Adam for another week

- I have big plans for Tailored Sentiments in 2011..its actually keeping me up at night, excited with the possibilities that exist! I can't wait to start sharing these ideas with you!

- My bestie has her ultrasound next Thursday and I get to see my new niece/nephew for the first time!!

- I'm so excited about scrapbooking this year..but have only done my title page so far! So many ideas and no idea how to put them to work

- There is just 22 days til we leave for California..and I'd bet that its going to be a life changing vacation for us ;)

- I'll be 27 in twenty-one days, and it doesn't bother me at all! I'm actually looking forward to it!

- I google the Weather Network daily to see what the temps are like in San Fran and LA..somehow knowing that its +28 C there makes my -18 C world feel warmer..

So much "stuff" going on in my life right now..I just love it!! Have a great weekend everyone, I know we are all getting hammered by the weather..stay home if you can, stay warm and happy crafting to you all!!

Friday Randoms

2011-01-07T08:58:00.000-07:00

It so does not feel like a Friday to me today! The week back from holidays is always brutal, but in the winter when the days are shorter..it really feels like I'm dragging my butt by 4:30 every day! Today is no different, my alarm went off at 6 a.m and I actually prayed that it was only 4 so that I could get 2 more hours of sleep in! But, since that wasn't possible, I got up and decided to weigh myself as I have officially completed my first week of working out on the treadmill (4 sessions) and what did I see on the scale? I actually gained 3 lbs! Now, I don't know about you..but is that normal? My first week..I was expecting to lose half a pound, hoping maybe 1 lb loss...but gain?! How does that happen? So..not only do I have lack of sleep working against me, I also have this lovely little 3 lb weight gain on my brain...so NOT a good way to start the weekend! I guess next week I'll just have to be that much more focused!!

Today after work I will be taking off for the farm again..Adam will be working steadily on the new house all month before we go to California in February for 2 weeks, so we agreed that I will be making the trek all January so that we can still be together :) And the farm? Well its just an oasis for me..I mean look at it!

It gives me peace and tranquility from the city life and I look forward to it every weekend I'm there!!

Once I'm back home on Monday I will be focusing more on my card business, Tailored Sentiments and my Etsy shop as well as preparing products for a tradeshow I'm in in March!! So much to look forward to this year already!!! Have a great weekend everyone :) Happy Crafting!

2010 in Review

2011-01-05T11:23:00.003-07:00

I have been working on a "2010 in Review" layout that will capture all the momentous occasions that occured in 2010..let me tell you, it was a busy year!!! I've pulled some of my favorite photos to use and thought I would share my year in photos...so here we go!

January 2010 - Happy New Years, Bought my First home and Pole Class!!

February 2010 - My 26th Birthday ( I was Greek dancing)

March 2010 - Sandra's Birthday - the Night of the Lemon Drop

April 2010: Took Possession, Petrick Easter Egg Hunt and Jennie is Engaged!!

May 2010: Jaelyn Petrick is born and Renovation Central at my home!

June 2010: Fell in Love ...

July 2010: Moved in to my home - Reno's Complete!

August 2010: Robyn's Stagette, First Harvest, First Magazine Publication out on newsstands and

Petrick Family Reunion at the Lake! Whew!!

September 2010: Robyn and Ian got married!!

October 2010: Our first Halloween together and Makiya's 3rd Halloween!

November 2010: Adam surprised me with a trip to Niagara Falls!!

December 2010: Makiya's 3rd Christmas and our First Christmas together!

What a beautiful end to a beautiful year!! 2010 was amazing and very busy, but I know that I will love 2011 even more! Bring it on! I'm ready for you!!

Happy Twenty Eleven!

2011-01-04T08:49:00.001-07:00

So I realize its a few days past wishing everyone a Happy New Year, but I've just come back from holidays and getting settled is much harder than I thought it would be! The tree is still up and my house is a mess from Christmas..and in truth, its so overwhelming, I just don't know where to begin! But, today after work I resolve to begin tackling my home..one room at a time until eventually it actually looks like a human being dwells in it again :)

How were your holidays? Mine were fabulous and very, very busy! I haven't done that much driving...EVER! Christmas Eve and morning were spent with my family, then that afternoon we drove out to the farm..where we stayed til the 28th, then we came home to visit with a cousin of mine that I hadn't seen in 7 years, then on the 29th we drove down to Great Falls Montana in possibly the worst driving weather ever and since we were headed for the mountains, we spent a night in the city in possibly the worst hotel room ever! On the 30th we proceeded to drive through the mountains to our cabin..where the scenery was like this:

Isn't it beautiful? We woke up the morning of the 31st and went for a hike to some waterfalls and we ended up spending two and a half hours enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery..I felt invigorated after this! Because this was a pretty quiet corner of the State, most of the snow was left untouched and I hadn't seen this much beauty in a long time..Montana definitely left an impression on me ;)

Now its a whole new year and although I usually try to make resolutions, I never end up keeping them anyways. So this year, I have set goals for myself..(one being more scrapbooking!!) and I will keep track of them to see how I do over the year. One such goal was using the treadmill regularly once again..I did so good in 2009 and lost a fair amount, only to have let it go through the Falls months in 2010 again..so now, its a new year and I will start all over again!! Wish me luck!

Also, I am officially on countdown for our roadtrip to California next month!! One month today I will turn 27 and one month from tomorrow we are headed to the Golden Coast! I'm so excited!!! 2011 is going to be amazing, I can just feel it!

Not a Creature Was Stirring..

2010-12-23T11:34:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas Eve, Eve!! haha

I'm still plugging away at the office so it doesn't completely feel like the holidays yet, but we are coming in again tomorrow til noon and then I'm off for 10.5 glorious days!! I'm so excited!!

Last night I spent some time with my mom, wrapping a present for Adam's family, eating dinner and watching "Four Christmases".. and then Jakey and I drove around to look at lights before coming home to wrap presents on the floor by the tree watching my all time favorite childhood Christmas movie, One Magic Christmas...do you remember this movie? It was made in 1985 (I was one!) and mom taped it for Curtis and I and we watched it every Christmas! I haven't seen it in years so last night I poured a glass of wine, PVR'd the movie and felt instantly giddy watching a movie that made me feel like I was 4 years old again, waiting for Santa to arrive!!

Adam and I will spend some time with my family tomorrow night but when we go home, we will snuggle up on the couch and watch this movie together..I am so excited!!

Other than that, I have a few small errands to run and I am ready for Christmas!! Have a very Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

Through the Years..

2010-12-22T09:27:00.003-07:00

I don't know if its just because the end of yet another year is upon us or I'm just feeling a little nostaligic, but I have been spending some time thinking about what all has happened in 2010 and how blessed I feel for everything and everyone in my life. Yesterday I went through my day planner and wrote out everything significant that happened so that I could create a layout chronologically organizing my past year..and it was amazing! I bought a house, took a fun class with girlfriends, got published in Paper Crafts magazine for the first time, found out friends were getting married/having babies, met "The One"..the list goes on and on!

This made me realize how truly important it is to keep scrapbooking. I've let it slide over the years, but I would really like to keep an updated scrapbook for 2011. Every month review what all happened, create layouts for specific events, etc. Time goes by so fast now a days, and I want to remember everything I can!

With that in mind, I went to my besties' house last night for our gift exchange with each other, as well as with my niece Makiya. We've done this every year, but the last three years has been even more special with the birth of my niece. Now that she is 2 1/2, she is SO much fun at Christmas and so excited for Santa (it helps that you can tell her Santa is watching when she starts pouting too!). I went home and downloading my pictures from the night on to my computer and realized I have captured a photo of her and I every Christmas since she was born..and it mystified me as to how much she has changed! And with that, I give you my 3 year Christmas with Makiya in review:

Here she and I are for our very first Christmas together! She was born in August, so would have been 4 months old here...awww :)

And here we are in 2009, she turned in to such a munchkin so fast! I love her goofy little grin here...gosh I hope she knows how much she is loved!

And finally, our annual photo, taken last night:

Poor sweetheart has had the flu bug that's been going around, so last night she was allowed a couple of chocolates from her princess advent calendar..just so she could catch up! She has an amazing personality and my Lord she is busy! Running and playing and laughing! There are still moments when I have absolutely no idea what she is saying, but at that age you can nod and play along with them and they won't know the difference ;) She warms my heart and I love her so much..and I'm so excited for next Christmas, where she will be the big sister to a little boy or girl!!! ;)

Happy Crafting everyone...I hope you are taking in everything that the holidays has to offer and cherishing every moment!

Countdown to Christmas

2010-12-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Its the 21st...can you believe it?! This month has completely flown by! In fact, this entire year has gone by so ridiculously fast..I can hardly stand it! In just 10 days it will mark a YEAR since I officially bought my new home that I am now in! A YEAR?!? Jeez...time really needs to slow down now..

But since it is only 4 days til the most wonderful day of the year arrives we are busy putting the final touches on presents, buying those few last minute gift ideas, baking cookies and watching holiday movies. My favorite holiday movie by far is - Elf. Who doesn't love Elf? "I'm singing...I'm in a store...and I'm SINGING"..hehehe, love it ;)

Adam will be home on Friday and will be busy wrapping presents to place under the tree..and we are so excited to start our holiday festivities!! Its pretty dang cold out there but it makes me happy to know that means we'll have snow for Christmas!!

I'm off to continue my merry making...hope you are all ready and settled in for the holidays!!! Happy Crafting everyone!

It's Christmas Time in the City..

2010-12-13T10:52:00.001-07:00

Officially in countdown mode..only one more weekend to finish your Christmas shopping!! Adam and I will be spending our weekend in Calgary, visiting a Christmas filled Heritage Park, going shopping and visiting with his best friend and his wife. I'm really excited to get away for a mini holiday with Adam..we both love just disappearing for awhile!

This past weekend was another busy one for us. Friday night we visited with mom and dad over beers than went on a date to the movies to catch, "Due Date". The movie was funny enough, but nothing I would see again unless it were on tv. I am always so disappointed when all the funny scenes are shown in the previews!!

Saturday morning we had visitors over, my cousins and their 6 month old daughter as well as my parents came to visit while I did a photo shoot with the little girl..she was such an awesome poser for me..just sat there, all content..not one tear all morning!

Then we headed out for lunch with mom and dad, ran some errands and got ready for my office Christmas party! Before we knew it we were at a friends' house for pre-party drinks, hopped in a cab and away the party went! We went to bed around 3:30 that morning..and let me tell you, I'm still paying for the lack of sleep today!

Needless to say, yesterday was full of laziness. We laid in bed til 11:30, had a quick breakfast and ran some errands that Adam needed to do for the farm, grabbed lunch and ate it while watching "Fred Claus", had a nap and before I knew it, it was time for my beau to leave me again :( I always get a knot in my tummy when he goes to leave..but I'm thankful that in just 4 more days he'll be back for our weekend in Calgary!!

Now tonight I'll be finishing my wedding photo cd and starting the edits on Jaelyn's first photo shoot..very excited to see these!! Hope you are all having a wonderful start to your week..take care everyone and Happy Crafting!!

Friday Randoms

2010-12-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Once again, its snowing here. I'm not complaining because its December, and December is the only month that I love when it snows...but I still don't like the cold! I don't like that I have to start my car 10 minutes before I have to leave for work just so that it doesn't feel like I'm sitting in an ice cube tray while driving to work. I hate when I have to scrape my windshield for what feels like forever until my arms feel like falling off, just so that I can see where I'm going in the darkness of the early morning. And I hate..I repeat HATE being cold! But no, I'm not complaining..no sir, not here!

Today starts off another busy weekend and I'm super duper excited because

A) Adam is on his way here again (YAY!);
B) I have my cousin's 6 month old daughters' photo shoot tomorrow morning at my home; and
C) Tomorrow night is my company Christmas Party and they all finally get to meet Adam! Oh, and there's free food and booze (and who wouldn't love that?!)

How are you all doing on your Christmas shopping? I approached this year in a very zen-like manner. I had no gifts going in to December..and I wasn't stressed or panicked or freaking out as per usual. No, I just kept slowly picking up presents, one after another..until yesterday I realized I'm pretty much done! Just like that! No one night shop til you drop marathon, no stressing over what to get whom..nope, I made my list...I checked it twice..and before I knew it: its time to wrap prezzies! And oh how I love to wrap prezzies ;) Last night I realized I had a few gifts out for Adam that needed to be covered so I sat down with 2 new rolls of Hallmark wrapping paper-goodness and wrapped to my hearts' content. I've left them without the icing (the ribbons and bows and accessories I lovingly add to all my presents) just so that I could sit down and really wrap them up nicely another night!

But I'm not going to lie, I look at the calendar and mu heart sinks a little when I realize there is only 2 weeks left til the jolly old elf arrives. I know that is a strange sentence, but its true! It makes me sad that as we get older the month of December (just like every other month in a year!) just flies by us..there are so many things that make this month special to me and I hate how fast it goes by! 2 weeks..thats all we have left. And then its on to a whole new year with all new goals and hopes and dreams..something I look forward to as well!

So here it is, my goal for the next 2 weeks:
-Take every day and make it special. Do something Christmas related every day: bake cookies, wrap presents, watch a holiday movie, go for a drive and look at Christmas lights..do something to take in the holidays! And, scrapbook the month as I remember. Keep contributing to my Christmas Journal and add in whatever extras I want to..this year is so special for me, my whole family together, my amazing man by my side and his family, my new family..all around us. It truly is a magical time of year!

Holiday Train

2010-12-08T09:35:00.001-07:00

Last nights' Holiday Train was awesome! Jodie picked me up after work with Makiya and we made our way down through the mass of people to find our spot in the crowd. Makiya was amazed at the lights on the train and for the first time since I was a little girl, I remembered what Christmas was like through the eyes of a child...and it was amazing. When the train door opened and Santa Claus appeared she was beaming and waving "hello" and my photo's captured a sparkle in her eyes that makes me melt!

I will upload my photos this evening and add them to this post, I can't wait to see them all myself! Also, a photographer from the Medicine Hat News took our photo last night and now we are in the local newspaper today!! I tried to scan the image in to share here today, but alas, it won't work :( But trust me, its cute!!

Now today I'm meeting up with a friend of mine that I've known since Grade 3 but due to our lives being so crazy lately, we only get to see once every couple of months..and we have SO much to catch up on!! I just love the holidays, don't you? Take every day in and make it worth remembering...you'll be glad you did!!

Randomness

2010-12-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

Just a few random things today, nothing important..nothing prolific..just pure randomness:

1) I started something on Saturday that has now become a full blown obsession of mine: watching "Keeping Up With The Kardashians". There was a full day marathon happening on the "W" Network and I started watching it and could. not. turn. it. off!! So I PVR'd it and have been watching episodes ever since!!

2) I can't sleep at night lately..must be due to late nights this past weekend talking to Adam, editing photos and watching tv/movies. Let me tell you, this sure makes my 7:30-4 day job totally suck!

3) My best friend and I are taking her 2 year old (my niece) to watch the CPR Holiday Train tonight at the local train station. Those of you outside of Canada, or those Canadians who don't know about this, the Canadian Pacific Railway decorates some of its cars up in twinkling holiday lights and pulls in to cities and towns across the country to raise money for local food banks. I was there 2 years ago and it was great! Once the train pulls in to town, a car door opens and musicians sing carols for the crowd while we drink hot chocolate and marvel at the lights. When I was there 2 years ago, Johnny Reid performed and I started to really love his voice!

Photo Courtesy of CP Rail

4) I'm officially getting LOTS checked off of my Christmas list lately!! I may have a few stocking stuffers left for Adam, my mom, my best friend and Adam's parents are all I have left to buy for and I already know what I'm getting them, which is half the battle!

5) My house is a complete wreck. There are messes everywhere from the front door to my reading room and kitchen..it stresses me out! But, of course, Keeping Up With The Kardashians (Refer to point #1) is taking up much more important time in my life (oie)

6) I just found a local photographer today that I can absolutely say I want to shoot my wedding..whenever that may be ;) since I am always the one behind the lens I thought it would be really difficult to find someone in town with a style that I loved and believed in, but I was proved wrong today when I stumbled across her site, pretty much accidently! I emailed her for pricing and info, just so I had it and now I know I want to hire her..for every photo of our future family that I do not take myself! In fact, since I've started this photography journey recently..I would seriously be honored to shadow this lady and learn from her..I wonder if she would take me?! Hmm..need to check that out!

And that my friends is pretty much where my head is at today! Wow, what a mess of thoughts!! Anyways, off to the Holiday Train!! Have a great evening everyone!! Happy Crafting!

Happy Monday!!

2010-12-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everyone!!

How was your weekend? Mine was quiet, cozy, crafty and for the most part, uber-relaxing!! Of course this is all after Friday night, which, if you read Friday's post was rated among the most nerve-racking days of my life so far! Friday night was my first wedding as the photographer...I say "the photographer" because I was the only one shooting & the only one responsible for capturing every precious moment of the special day between two complete strangers to me and a room full of no one I knew..yeah, it was nerve-racking and I made myself almost sick thinking about it! But after work I slipped into more comfortable "photographer" clothes, drove myself over to the reception hall and started snapping pictures..and the more I snapped, the more calm I became! I am proud of myself for getting through it and now, looking back I can say its pretty darn cool to think I was a photographer for someone's wedding..and I know it won't be my last ;) I remember stopping in between formals and thinking to myself..."this is so cool!", "this is so much fun, I can't believe I am getting paid to do this", I loved it! All I want to do now is keep practicing, learn more, research more..get really, really good. Here's a couple of my favorites so far, I had taken over 600 photos in just over 4 hours so to say I have a lot of work ahead of me wouldn't be stretching the truth..but again, its so much fun!!

Okay this one..is seriously my favorite of the night, so beautiful!!

So those are just a few of the hundreds I took. The feedback I've received so far has been amazing, its actually made me giddy! And the bride loves them, which means the most to me!! I'm actually looking forward now to shooting their newborn baby pictures in the Spring!!

The rest of my weekend was spent watching movies, making cards, talking with Adam, visiting family and doing some Christmas shopping. No, I didn't work on my Christmas journal but I'm not worried! I know exactly what I want to put in each days' entry so far..just need to sit down (hopefully tonight) and finish them!!

On the 2nd Day of Christmas..

2010-12-03T12:00:00.001-07:00

Alrighty, my JYC page for Day 2 was completed last night and I must say I am loving it! I will add it to my lil bloggy here this weekend once I get a chance to photograph it! You see, I'm photographing my very first wedding tonight and to say that I'm a little distracted and freaking out would be a slight understatement! The blushing bride and groom were introduced to me thru common friends and before I knew it, I had my first wedding gig booked! Now, I've been shooting cameras for years..but being someones' actual photographer?! This is fairly new..I'm very excited for this experience, but so nervous that I won't live up to my standards I've set for myself...keep your fingers crossed for me, please?!

Other than that I will be home this weekend, scrapbooking, making cards for my cousins' store and addressing the envelopes for this years' Christmas cards which I just received this morning from Mr. Postman (I love you Mr. Postman!)

And since I have no photo to share with you just yet, I found this one from Urbanic's blog and it just made me happy...oh how I love you pretty papers and ribbons!

My December 1st Layout

2010-12-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

I know...I can't believe it myself either..I'm actually posting a scrapbooking layout!! ON TIME!! Its insane, its a miracle..its, well..its Christmas time ;) If you have read my earlier blog posts you will know that I am taking part this year in Shimelle's "Journal Your Christmas", a fabulous online course that helps you focus on what's truly important this time of year! Yesterday, being December 1st was naturally, the first day for entries. Day 1 was all about creating a manifesto.. and here is what is now sitting pretty in my little album:

Whenever I actually do some kind of scrapbooking, I always end up doing a 12 x 12 album, therefore, nothing has changed with this one either :) I've also decided that although I will follow the prompt topics, I will also include anything else I find relevant about my month as I go along..this is, afterall all about my own personal experience with Christmas 2010!

Just a couple if little close-ups of my page..I'm really in love with the "clustered" look that iIve seen on the pages of my scrapbookers I adore, so tried my hand at it..I'll get better at it too as I go along :) And no, Adam would not be surprised to see that I found many ways to add glitter to my page!! Snuck it in with the pointsettia image, the "Joy" sticker as well as added some red gemstones to the centre of my flower, just because I could! ;)

Alright folks, todays' page is all about wintry weather and I've got my journalling already completed, my images I just shot on Monday all printed and ready to go..can't wait to scrapbook them tonight and (hopefully) share my Page #2 with you tomorrow!! Have a great Thursday everyone..Happy Crafting!

Journal Your Christmas - Day 1

2010-12-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

Today is day 1 of my 2010 Christmas Journal!! Today's prompt is all about creating a manifesto for your album..something that describes why you are creating this book, what it means to you, what your goals are for this holiday season and what you hope to create by spending time daily on this book. Shimelle provided us with some inspiration to share on our blogs and so here it is!!

As I received this prompt late last night, I spent some time writing my manifesto in a journal, to which I plan to copy to my album page tonight and share with you as soon as I can!!

Happy December 1st everyone!! Christmas is 24 days away!!!!

Its the most wonderful time of the year...

2010-11-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Its here! Its here! December 1st is just around the corner..and its the most wonderful time of the year! I'm so excited!! I have so many blessings to be thankful for and much to look forward to..I can't wait to take in all that the season brings!

I have also vowed to actually complete my journal this year, which, if you remember at all, last year went about as far as .... well, thats about it! If you haven't heard of the unique month long class, Journal Your Christmas, then you need to check it out. Sign up once and you are free to join in for the rest of your life! Beginning tomorrow, December 1st you will receive a prompt in your inbox with helpful photography tips, journal ideas..the works! I picked up my album last night and have already been busy taking my holiday photo's ...

Okay, not that I'm bragging..but, "hello, beautiful Christmas tree!!" hehe..sorry, couldn't help it, I am very proud of myself for this one ;)

Anyways..the motivation is huge, the photo's have already been started and I'm feeling the love for my 2010 Christmas Journal!! What are your plans for recording the holidays?!? I'll be back soon with pages from my journal..happy crafting everyone!!

Still not wrapping my head around...

2010-11-03T10:03:00.006-06:00

the fact that its already November!! I keep thinking about Christmas, as it is my favorite time of year and then I feel completely shocked when I realize its only a month away now!! December is going to be amazing! I am so excited!! Is there anything better than a month full of Christmas magic?!?

This weekend Adam and I are taking off on our romantic trip to Niagara Falls, ON..we fly out on Saturday and will come back home on Tuesday..needless to say, I'm just a little excited ;) I have no idea what flights we are on, what time specifically we are leaving or arriving, where we are staying...nothing!! Its all planned by Adam and I am l.o.v.i.n.g it!!

Next thing on the agenda? Christmas lights!! I haven't used them in 3 years and I am soo excited to bring them out of the basement and make them sparkle again in all of their candy cane glory! But before I get too ahead of myself..I thought I would share with you a little of my Halloween weekend!!

I just love being a "good witch" for the holidays!!

Our pumpkins this year that Adam carved!! Aren't they fantastic?

And of course, my favorite trick or treater in the world..my niece Makiya..isn't she adorable?!

Another fantastic Halloween season has come and gone..now its time to put the spider webs away because Christmas is on its way!!! Happy Crafting everyone!!

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T00:00:00.002-06:00

Photo Courtesy of Flikr

It's that time of year again! Witches, black cats, pumpkins and more candy than you can imagine!! Have a safe and spooktacular Halloween everyone!!!

Friday Randoms

2010-10-29T11:25:00.002-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone!!

We are all dressed up here at my office, nothing like a finance building full of witches, bridezilla's, nurses and superheroes ;) There is nothing like one day a year to be however goofy, silly ot spooky you want to be!! I love it!!!

I'm extremely excited for this weekend, Adam is coming today and we have a full schedule on our hands! Tonight will be dinner out, tomorrow we're off to grandma and grandpa's for a visit, then some shopping, another dinner out, carving pumpkins (the photo above was last years') and then Sunday we have the cutest little trick or treater coming over in the morning, brunch with my family and a full night of handing out candy!! (I just hope I didn't eat too much and still have enough for all the kids!!) I'm kidding!! ..... kind of ;)

The front porch is decorated (finally!), the cauldron is bubbling and the spiders are waiting..I'm curious to see how many trick or treaters I will have as this will be my first Halloween in this home..I'm guessing 40-50..we'll see how well I estimated on Monday!!!

But until then, have a great weekend everyone!!!!!!

The Witch is in..

2010-10-27T14:28:00.003-06:00

Halloween is in exactly 4 more days and if it weren't for the freak winter frost we have got going on here..I'd be outside hanging spiders webs this afternoon on my front porch. Fingers are crossed that this happens before Sunday..gotta spook the place up a little, you know? This past weekend out at the farm, Adam and I took a little time out of our day to make my bubbling cauldron of witches brew..it turned out fantastic! Just needs a few little touch ups and I'll be photographing it while placing it on my porch! Its green and filled with bugs and eyeballs..mmm mmm good!

Then, come Monday morning..I'm in full Christmas swing! The Christmas cards have been designed, the lights will go up shortly outside and the hunt for the perfect (faux) Christmas tree will be on! It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!!!

On another note, Adam surprised me Sunday night by telling me he's whisking me away to Niagara Falls next weekend (I love surprises) So we will be taking off next Friday and returning on the following Monday. I am so excited to get away for awhile! This will be our first holiday together before the big one in February..it'll be just perfect for us =)I've always envied people who get up and go away somewhere for the weekend..reading Kelly Purkey's blog sure makes me antsy too..and finally I get to experience that!! And, best news of all is we're wanting to make this a more frequent event in our lives!!

So what do you have left to do before Halloween? Is the candy bought? The decorations up? I can't wait to see everyone's photo's from this weekend!! Happy Crafting everyone!

'Tis Near Halloween..

2010-10-22T09:50:00.002-06:00

When witches go riding and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers, "Tis near Halloween". Ah, I love that sentiment..it makes my heart beat just a little faster in anticipation of the ghoulish fun to be had in nearly a week's time! Last night I was out decorating my front porch with all things pertaining to witches (at Halloween I'm obsessed with witches!)when, to my surprise I realized I had inadvertantly locked myself out of the house! Yup, Jakey was inside, the oven was on cooking my supper, rice cooking on the stove..it wasn't good! Quickly I ran behind to my lovely neighbors who graciously let me in to use their phone and once again my dad came to the rescue a mere 10 minutes later!! I'd like to say that will be the last time that happens..but I know myself too well!

But it was fixed in minutes and I got back to prepping for trick or treaters! I hung my witch window cling from Martha Stewart on my front window (she looks so cool at night!) and this weekend, Adam and I will be making a cauldron full of bubbling brew (thanks to BHG!) I'll post my house photos once everything is up and decorated!!

As for myself, I will be dressing up next Friday for the office..as a witch, of course. I have my long black dress, my spider rings, striped stockings, witch shoes and of course, my pointy hat! I think its great to have one day to be whoever you want to be..young or old its never boring on Halloween!!

On another note, I recently found the super fun application of Poladroid..and with that I'll leave you with my latest creation..happy weekend everyone!!

Thursday Randoms

2010-10-14T09:32:00.003-06:00

The original title for today's post was "Friday Randoms", yup..nothing worse than thinking its a Friday and realizing its only Thursday!! My crafty mojo is...nowhere to be seen, it's left me high & dry! I have many things on my crafty to do list but something is missing. Hopefully it'll be back in time for all the new PTI goodies I plan on ordering at tonight's release!! ;) Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas over at PTI, have you seen it? My shopping list is ever expanding..I just love this time of year!

This weekend I'm heading back out to the farm, there is so much going on out there! The dome home is steadily coming along, I have photo's on my camera, but again that just hasn't been done yet. Also, its my BF's Birthday this Sunday, he'll be 28!! Also on the list for this weekend is the town's annual Fowl Supper..I'm a little nervous to attend, it will be the first time I meet a lot of people from town and well, its never easy being the new girl..keep your fingers crossed for me please!

Then next week I plan to go in to full Halloween mode. The spider webs will be strewn across my front porch, the witch shoes for my costume will be dug out and the Halloween candy will finally be purchased (every year I purchase bags of candy and eat it all myself before I buy more for the kids..this year I figured I'd take a much healthier approach!) Are you ready for the spookiest time of year yet?!?

Speaking of Halloween..I thought I'd leave you today with this too cute to spook image, courtesy of Flikr

Happy Crafting Everyone!

Update

2010-10-08T08:50:00.002-06:00

Hello friends and happy Friday!!

Just wanted to give the ol' blog an update and let everyone know I myself have been down for the last few days this week, doctors say I have a slight case of vertigo! Woke up at 3:30 am on Wednesday morning and the room was spinning! Ran in to a few walls, laying down made it worse, closing my eyes made it worse..it was not fun at all! I'm on some medication and feeling much better, just in time for Thanksgiving this weekend (we celebrate it in October here in Canada). I'm so excited for spending the weekend with loved ones, eating turkey and feeling grateful for all that I have in my life.

I will be back next week with more creations and even a LO! Yes, I actually sat down on Tuesday and made my first layout in about a year..I'm very proud of myself ;)

Have a great weekend everyone!! Happy Crafting!!

We have a Winner!!

2010-10-03T08:22:00.002-06:00

Good Morning Everyone!

Did we all survive World Card Making Day? It was such an exciting day for me, blog hopping and seeing what everyone was up to! Great job to everyone that participated!! As for my little corner of the world, I printed off the comments from yesterday, cut them up & placed them in a cup and the winner that was randomly selected is none other than:

Cokie Pop Paper Boutique said...
Those little snowmen are adorable. Love the colors. Great giveaway:)

October 2, 2010 4:40 PM

Congratulations Angi!! Can't wait to send these goodies off to you!!

I'm off to set up a table at Bustin Loose: The Race to End Breast Cancer. I've been volunteering and participating in this fundraiser for the last 3 years and it still amazes me every year at the sea of pink and just how many participants come out in full force! I'll be sure to take photos and post them tomorrow. Enjoy your Sundays everyone!!