Crafty by Nature

Newer pieces

2012-02-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

So of course I uploaded the old file. Duh. Here is some of my newer work.

Happy Friday Everyone!

2012-02-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

I'm baaaack.... I have been busily working away in my studio, taking lessons and addressing personal issues... yup basically living life as best I can. Hope you will forgive my long absence. Here are a few of the things I have creating in the last little while. You will recognize that I have been influenced by certain artists - Kelly Rae Roberts, Teesha Moore, Tamarra Laporte, Susi Blu and Christie Tomlinson. These ladies are magical in my opinion. Their work creates a truly visceral reaction in me. Visceral as in I FEEL something - a tug at my heart strings, butterflies in my tummy - all that good stuff.

Anyway, here we go.

Enjoy!

What a difference a month makes

2011-10-26T11:10:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone -

I know we haven't spoken in a month. It's probably a good thing though since I have been an angry, babbling, emotional mess trying to pretend to be FINE.

My sister was diagnosed with Stage 3 lung cancer. I am ANGRY! I hate that f****ing disease. It steals people from our hearts.

Anyway making any kind of art I would want to share was not an option. Oh I made art alright - angry, furious art, and eventually I was able to exorcize the demons which posessed me.

Once that was taken care of - I came to accept that life as we (my family and I) knew it, was changed for ever. With that acceptance came a renewed desire to create art that pleases me. Of course I hope it pleases you as well, but I finally get that until I create for myself, I will not be satisfied with the outcome of any piece and will always have a skewed view of my work.

Why am I telling you this? Well I want you to understand the importance of this piece. She was made for me, with me in mind, and she is hanging on my wall. I love her. Period.

Namaste -

Art to soothe the frightened soul

2011-09-23T20:29:00.000-06:00

So here's the thing. My sister was diagnosed with cancer recently. Now, I am going to guess I am not the only person here who HATES that word, that stupid disease. We all know someone who has had it - we know people who have fought that battle and won, and some who have lost. The very word strikes terror in me. Because I watched my mother die of cancer when she was my age, I don't ever want to see another loved one go through it. But Spirit is in charge and Spirit does as Spirit will.

I decided my sister needed one of my paintings, or maybe I just needed to give her one.

Here is what I did (the piece was inspired by a rubber stamped image I saw somewhere...)

The quote is from a gospel hymn -

"His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me"

Peace everyone -

Danielle

Unconditional Love

2011-09-08T22:23:00.000-06:00

My youngest sister, Marie Josée devotes her life to her horse rescue farm. She has loved horses for as long as she has been alive and always dreamt of working with them. Her dream came true when she married her husband John, and they combined their families to create one truly special place. I love being there whenever I can get to Quebec.

This picture is of Josée and a recent rescue named Otis.

When Josée introduces a horse to the farm, she sits quiely on a pile of hay and lets the animal investigate his or her new surroundings. What ensues is a special moment when the animal finally understands that he is safe.

This photograph was taken about 5 minutes after Otis' arrival. It reflects the kindness in my sisters soul and the appreciation of this beautiful animal.

Enjoy!

Latest painting

2011-08-04T20:37:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone -

My husband wanted to give one of his cooks a housewarming gift in appreciation for all her hard work. Holly is 21 years old, well-traveled and a hard worker. She is also moving into her first apartment. So here is the piece dedicated to Holly.

Enjoy!

D xx

A great new project!

2011-06-26T10:39:00.000-06:00

See Magazine Bowls and 1000's of others - or share your own on Cut Out + Keep

Pieces for Fundraiser

2011-03-28T19:44:00.000-06:00

So, my youngest sister and her band decided to have a fund raiser for the victims of the Japanese Tsunami. Other bands and v ocalists joined up with her, and next thing you know it is HUGE!!! Why am I telling you this (besides wanting to brag about my baby sister?) well because she asked me to donate a piece of my art for an auction they are having.

Of course I said yes immediately, but as the project grew, the venues multiplied, so I have sent off 3. Here they are -

Let's hope they bring in a ton of money for this worthy cause.

Have a great evening all, I am off to work in my art journal.

Another She Art Girl

2011-03-20T12:59:00.000-06:00

I loved making this one. I designed my background paper which I then collaged on to the canvas and then added some stain and rub-ons. Her skirt is fabric which I stamped before attacking with ModPodge. Her shirt however is scrap from a glossy craft magazine as is her hat.

No sooner was she created that she was adopted by a local young woman who "fell in love" with her. Thank goodness I got a picture first. lol

Have a great day everyone!

2011-03-18T13:53:00.000-06:00

Latest She Art Girl

2011-03-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

Good morning all!

Once again I was completely posessed by Christie Tomlinson's infectious teaching methods. I LOVE her She-Art Class and can't wait to see what her next course will be. I urge you crafty types to check Scarlet Lime out.

Anyway I want to share my latest Girl with you. This time we learned to add scenes and doodles to our art.

Okay, I have to tell you - I love the way she turned out! This one is definitely a keeper. She is mine mine mine. Muahahahaha!

Okay, so now I am off to work on my journal.

Have a great day everyone!

There is life after a heart attack!

2011-03-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends -

Life has been a little hectic here since my "mild heart attack" before Christmas. No one can figure out why it happened or why I am still having issues, so I have been spending a lot of time (too much time) with cardiologists. At least I am not in hospital...

I feel fine. So no worries here.

So here's the scoop. I am SICK of making cards! I don't think I could put another one together if my life depended on it. Of course, I need to do something, so I decided to visit the amazing world of altered art. I visited and loved it so much I moved in.

I am taking Christie Tomlinson's She Art course and am just loving it. Christie is a wonferfully quirkie woman with huge talent. She is an excellent teacher and has the gft of making everyone feel good about their art.

Here is my first attempt -

and here is my second.

I am also learning to make Art Journals, and although I can only dream of being as good as artists such as Sheena MooreI am loving the process.

Here is the cover to my first book, I also prepped the pages and added fiber to make it interesting -

and here are a few pages

This is my FAVORITE page so far

So as you can see, I have not been idle, just doing my own thing and enjoying it. I will keep you posted as I travel my artsy journey. So far I am having a blast!

Have a great day my lovelies.

I am back!

2011-02-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hi everyine - I am back after a pretty long absence. I don't know what happens to the time but I seem to get caught up and things and keep putting off blogging. Anyway here I am.

I have decided to concentrate on learning about art journalling and altered art and that is what I have been working on.

I am looking forward to taking Christie Tomlinson's SheArt Workshop at the end of the month and have been learning journalling through a wonderful group I joined.

Here are a couple of photos of the my first journal to give you an idea of where my must is taking me.

Take care y'all.

Want to win a $25.00 gift certificate?

2010-11-13T11:38:00.001-07:00

Then come and play INSPIRATION TAG with us! It starts on Monday, November 15th and will last until December 5th. That's the day the winner will be announced! Winner? Yes! There will be a $25.00 gift certicate awarded to the winner and they can even decide which store they'd like it to be from! So get your running shoes on!

Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Card for my daughter

2010-10-20T16:15:00.003-06:00

Jessica loooves cows. She collects them. Don't ask me why. We have never lived on or near a farm. We have always gotten her cow thingies, pyjamas, salt and pepper shakers etc.

When I decided I wanted to make her a "Thinking of you" card, I knew I had to find the perfect cow.

I wish you could see it in real life. I 3D'ed its butt by printing a copy of the image and cutting out the part I wanted to emphasize- in this case the cow's bottom. I then applied it with a paper spring which causes it to wiggle when touched.

I am happy with the way it turned out and know it will make her smile.

Later xx

Inspiration

2010-10-20T00:40:00.006-06:00

Isn't it nice that the littlest thing can spark one's imagination?

Today while taking another look at the digi stamps CardMadFairy had provided the Design Team at Stamping Vacation with, I fell in love with this little spiral star.

Of course I had to have a play and here is what I came up with

Enjoy!

Autumn Fairy

2010-10-09T16:42:00.003-06:00

Last one for today.... maybe (vbg)

Another one

2010-10-09T10:21:00.003-06:00

I admit it, I am addicted... I love these images!

Cardmadfairy

2010-10-09T08:10:00.005-06:00

Good morning everyone!

The wonderful people at Cardmadfairy very graciously donated some digis to the Stamping Vacation Design Team. Their images are amazing.

One of the most common complaints I hear about digital stamps or digis, is that they are limited. That there is "only so much you can do with them"

I disagree, I love working with digital stamps and in my opinion their potential is only limited by our imaginations.

I was so inspired by the Cardmadfairy digis that I had to have a play immediately.

This is my take on their "Inspire" stamp.

I used Photoshop to achieve this look. First thing I did was change the color of the stamp from black to a sort of brownish-sepia tone. I removed the white from the digi as well leaving the background empty.

I then created a background in some of my favorite colors.

Placed the altered stamp on the background and then using some flourish brushes I completed the look.

I then used one of my favorite quotations - "I saw an angel in the marble and carved until I set it free" ` Michelangelo , and added it to balance the image.

I am really very happy with the way it turned out.

Here's another of Cardmadfairy's digis - "Insight"

Although I basically used the same techniques on this one, it was a little more involved.

The most time consuming part was burnishing some of the colors to give them more depth, others were dodged to brighten them up without losing their intensity or luminosity. There are tools in Photoshop to do this, and once I figured out how to use them, I enjoyed it a lot.

Love the digis, love the results and can't wait to play some more.

Thank you so much to Stamping Vacation for arraging for us to receive these great images and a huge hug and thank you to the great people at CardMadFairy's Creations.

Have a great day.

And the Winners are!

2010-09-28T08:12:00.002-06:00

Good morning!

It is my pleasure to announce the winners of my leg of the Stamping Vacation Handmade with a Hop Blog Hop.

Congratulations go to -

Andrea - http://andreajbpiecesofmine.blogspot.com/ you have won a set of stamps from Little Claire Designs.

Christi Hicks - http://www.blogger.com/profile/02932957085115574069 you have won a prize from the Cutting Cafe

and finally,

Pat - http://pgarvin.blogspot.com/ You have won a $25.00 gift certificate from SkyBluePink.

Ladies you have until October 3rd to contact me at dbrault1@shaw.ca with your information so that I can arrange for you to receive your prizes.

Visit Stamping Vacation for a full list of prize winners.

Congratulations Ladies!

A new Card

2010-09-27T19:32:00.005-06:00

Hi everyone -

Fall is definitely in the air, so when Denise of Stamping Vacation asked me to make a card using the quote "Problems are solution maps", I thought why not use our front yard as inspiration.

In particular, I thought our silly birdbath illustrated the quotation perfectly.

So, here is my card. I created the background and drew the birdbath which I then layered.

What do you think?

Ladies and Gentlemen we have our WINNERS!

2010-09-26T21:48:00.002-06:00

The first ever Stamping Vacation Blog Hop has ended.

We will announce the winners on Tuesday evening so watch this blog.

In the meantime, thank you to all who took the time to visit and post a comment. I wish I had candy for all of you.

Bye for now...

HOMEMADE WITH A HOP!!!

2010-09-25T07:15:00.006-06:00

"Welcome to your fifth stop of 10 on Stamping Vacation's first blog hop:

Homemade with a HOP!

This blog hop started today at 9:00 a.m. US Central Time and ends Sunday (tomorrow)) at 9:00 p.m. US Central Time.

This hop focuses on easy to make homemade embellishments for paper crafting and we have a long list of incredible prizes available to be won on every single blog!

At Stamping Vacation you could be randomly chosen to win a 15 pound gift certificate and a digital image from Ooh-la-la AND the grand prize is a gift certificate to the store of your choice. The amount will depend on how many blogs you visit during the blog hop. The gift certificate will equal $5.00 for each blog you visit AND comment at. So there are 10 blogs which means the gift certificate could equal up to $50.00!!!! But if you only visit one blog, it would just be $5.00.

I will be giving away prizes from SkyBluePink, Little Claire Designs and the Cutting Café. Don’t forget to leave a comment!

In all there is well over $300.00 in prizes! You MUST be a follower of Stamping Vacation and add a comment at the blogs to win the prize. If you don't have a blog, be sure to leave your email address so we can reach you. Winners will be announced on September 28th!

And here is my homemade embellishment!

AN ORIGAMI SHIRT

This simple little folded shirt has helped me out of many a bind, when I have been asked to make a card for a male. The shirt is easily adaptable to any man and any occasion. If you are feeling really creative you can even add a little tie.

1.Start with a rectangular sheet of paper (like a standard USA letter 8.5" x 11"). I like using a 4" x 6" scrap. Fold it in half lengthwise and unfold. This gives you a central crease down the middle of the sheet.

2.Fold the left and right edges of the sheet towards the middle. This gives two flaps.

3.Fold the right flap out towards the right side. The exact location or steepness of the fold is not critical. Try somewhere between a quarter to a half way down the sheet.

4.Repeat of the other side: fold the left flap out towards the left at an angle. This forms a "V" shape where the paper is peeled away from the central crease.

5.Turn the paper and flip over so the "V" is on the bottom and is facing down towards the table. Valley fold (about one inch) of the top edge down towards you.

6.Flip the paper again so the "V" is now facing up. Fold the right corner of the paper towards the middle crease.

7.Repeat with the left side: fold the top left corner towards the center allowing the two corners to meet in the middle (left corner is shown with an arrow).

Image 7a is a close-up. Step 6 and 7 form the collar of the shirt.

8.Bring the bottom of the paper up and slide it under the collar. Now you can see how steps 3 and 4 formed the sleeves of the shirt.

9.Press the bottom of the shirt firmly and you're done!

And here is the card I attached my shirt to:

I keep a little supply of these on hand, they are great to use on that last minute card.

Hope you enjoy!

Your next stop on our hop is Cory’s at Free-4-Ever. More great prizes there as well.

And here is the complete list of blogs on the hop:

STAMPING VACATION - Denise

ALL THINGS CRAFTY - Stacie

MERRYMADE CARDS AND CRAFTS - Merry

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL - Audrey

CRAFTY BY NATURE - Danielle

FREE 4 EVER - Corry

DREAMING AND CREATING - Karen

ASPIRING TO CREATIVITY - Dana

EMU CREATIONS - Annmaree

COLDWATERS 2 - Lorraine

Thanks for hopping by!! Hope you are having a terrific time at Homemade with a HOP!

DON"T FORGET! Be sure to leave a comment if you want a chance to WIN!"

Dedicated to my friend Denise

2010-09-22T09:04:00.002-06:00

This is a hard time of the year for Denise.

Last year, Denise lost her beloved son Bryan. He was only 20 years old. Bryan passed when he suffered complications after back surgery.

I can't imagine anything worse than losing a child.

Denise, I am holding you in my heart and although I know nothing will take away the pain you must feel, I do hope this little gesture eases it a little.

Please always remember that you are loved.

I am here for you girlfriend.

XX

Another Sponsor for the Stamping Vacation Blog Hop

2010-09-14T13:38:00.002-06:00

Okay, so do any of you remember my post about Little Claire Designs http://www.littleclaire.co.uk/ ? I raved about prices, quality and amazing service. I loooove them.

Well Carol, of Little Claire Designs has graciously offered to be a sponsor of our blog hop.

How exciting is this? You know, I don't think I have ever seen a hop with so many prizes. Be sure to set your days aside so that you can enter your comments and have a chance to win...

Off to watch huby pick apples and plums off the ground and from the trees... Guess I will be baking.

Have a great day!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

2010-09-13T12:06:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I am not much into the actual technical aspects of this blogging thing. I love creating my cards and art and love sharing it with you but I am pretty rotten at promoting myself or my work.

That being said - I MUST remind you about the Stamping Vacation Blog Hop starting on Saturday September 25th at 9:00 a.m. US Central Time and lasting until Sunday September 26th at 9:00 p.m. US Central Time.

The Dream Team (as the design team likes to be called) will be hosting HOMEMADE WITH A HOP which will focus on homemade embellishments. We will be offering prizes on all ten blogs and will be offering a $5.00 - $50.00 gift certificate (depending on the number of blogs commented on) to the grand prize winner's place of choice! That's over $300.00US in prizes!

To whet your appetites here is a list of our blog hop sponsors . . . so far. . .

Practicing Creativity Designs
Sticker Store
Glitterbabe's Art
Ooh la la Creations
Sunflowers and Dragonflies
Meljen's Designs
Sky Blue Pink (I get to give this prize away. I love Queen Xina and her royal entourage and have been a huge fan for years)!
Die Cut Dreams
Prairie Fairy Designs
Really Reasonable Ribbon
Victorine Originals
The Stampsmith
Rubberstamp Ave.
Lawn Fawn

I can hear you all saying "WHAT???? Can this be possible???"

Well of course its possible, would I lie to you????

So mark your calendar and get yourself ready for an awesome weekend....

Oh and before I forget - If you decide to become a follower of Stamping Vacation, please mention my name, they are offering a gift for the person who brings in the most followers once they have reached 200!

Thanks and ta ta for now....

STAMPING VACATION BLOG HOP SOON!

2010-09-01T17:09:00.002-06:00

Hi all -

The Dream Team at Stamping Vacation will be hosting their first ever blog hop this month. Theme is Homemade Embellishments.

There will be loads to see, how-to's and prizes!

Watch this space for more info.

2010-09-01T17:03:00.003-06:00

Hi there -

Here is another card made as a member of the Stamping Vacation Blog - this one for the Occasion Oasis challenge. Again, I used an amazing Mo Manning image.

Enjoy!

Name that card Challenge at Stamping Vacation

2010-08-28T11:18:00.002-06:00

Windy and cold here today. Ahhh, I guess Winter is on its way... at least here in Edmonton, it is.

Perhaps I can warm things up with this sweet little card, made for the Stamping Vacation - Name that card sentiment.

Drop by and check out the other cards, have some fun, drop us a comment, and remember "imagination is intelligence having fun" so go out and make something!

Owwwww!

2010-08-19T12:29:00.002-06:00

It's been a rough couple of weeks... Our computer died and we had to get a new one. That meant that we had to scramble to find all of our programs and reinstall. But it is all done now, so one crisis averted. I felt cut off from the rest of humanity.

Now, do any of y9ou know what "trigger finger" is? It's a condition where the flexor tendon on a finger gets caught between the joints. Yup you guessed it, I got it. I am in a brace waiting for app, with ortho surgeon.

This hasn't stopped me from being creative though. I will be posting new creations very soon.

Ain't life grand???

Have a great day.

Amazing Blog Candy on Jak Heath's site.

2010-08-01T14:42:00.003-06:00

Hi there everyone -

Have just been to visit Jak Heath's blog - one of my favorites - and oh my goodness, what a wonderful blog candy contest she has going on.

Check it out. Really, you won't regret it.

http://www.jakheath.com/2010/08/blogcandy-hanglar-stanglar-promarkers.html

Felling crafty

2010-07-28T22:44:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone!

What a beautiful day. Finally.

I thought I would share some of the cards I have made in the last little while.

Why don't you drop me a line and let me know what you think?

Have a great day -

TTFN -

Paper Flowers

2010-07-26T11:01:00.004-06:00

Good morning all -

Was feeling a little uninspired today, so decided to take a stroll down memory lane.

Remember the flowers we used to make out of tissue paper way back when? I decided to make some just to keep my hands busy. Rather than tissue paper though, I used light weight cardstock and various inks to add a touch of realism. My favorites are the carnations so far. Very easy to make, especially if you have decorative edged scissors.
All you have to do is cut out 6 circles to the size you want your flower to be, cut around the edge with the scissors (I used the Ripple pair). Cut six v-shaped notches at regular intervals around each disc. Pierce a hole in each for the brad. Now for the fun part - crumple up the discs as much as you can. Don't be afraid, basically all we are doing is breaking down the starch in the cardstock to make it more malleable.

Next, uncrumple the discs, stack them on the brad and "smoosh" into the shape you want.

Have fun!

Woohoo! I made the team!

2010-07-25T20:17:00.002-06:00

Hey all, I just found out I have been selected to be a member of the Stamping Vacation Design Team! It is such an honour.

I love Denise's blog and am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her. If you don't already follow the blog, I really recommend that you check it out here http://stampingvacation.blogspot.com/ or click on the title of this blog for a direct link.

Little Claire Designs

2010-07-25T19:53:00.005-06:00

Haloooo everyone!

I have just got to tell you about my greatest discovery.

As most of you know I am Canadian. I have found it very difficult to find the supplies I need for my cards at an affordable price. Someone mentioned Little Claire Designs to me (http://www.littleclaire.co.uk/) and I decided to check them out.

Now many of you know that I had been wanting some ProMarkers for a long time, but they are way too expensive here. I thought I might ask Santa for a few and had resigned myself to working in watercolour since I couldn't find any decent alcohol based markers that were affordable.

Well, when I saw the prices at Little Claire, I just about fell off my chair. I thought for sure I was messing up the currency conversion, but was pleased to see that I hadn't.

I was able to buy all four seasons of the markers as well as the skin tones set and 10 meters of beautiful organza ribbon for £40.50 and that included the shipping!!!! That is just over $60.00 Cdn!

Okay, so now I had to sit on my hands and wait. I expected it would take at least 6 weeks to 2 months for my purchase to arrive. Imagine my delight when I received everything as ordered (plus a little "candy"
from them as a surprise) within two weeks.

I have since placed another order and again, the price was more than reasonable and the items in my hand in less than two weeks.

I LOVE LITTLE CLAIRE DESIGNS!!!

So if you are looking for a vendor who offers quality goods, affordable prices, and great personal services, I highly recommend Little Claire's. Just click on the blog title and it will take you to their website.

Hey - tell 'em Danielle sent you....

Where does the time go?

2010-07-14T22:46:00.003-06:00

Well hello everyone -

Time, as it usually does, has gotten away from me. I have been dealing with medical issues, a move and several other things, and just never seemed to be able to settle down long enough to post.

But here I am, ready and eager to share some of my latest creations.

Enjoy!

I can't believe I haven't posted in ages!!!!

2010-05-14T21:53:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone! It has been forever since I have posted. Sorry about that, but life has a way of getting in the way - ya know?

We have moved into a great little house and I can now get outside more. Have to tell you now that it actually feels like Spring, that is where I spend most of my time.

However, I have been creating and will post some cards soooooon. I promise.

I will also try to keep the posts coming.

Hugs

Moi

Wedding Gown

2009-08-06T09:48:00.005-06:00

Hi all -

Thought I would show you a keepsake card I made for a friend who is getting married in a few months. It was quite easy to make, although adding the lace details was a little finicky.

Enjoy!

Another dreary Emonton day

2009-08-06T09:24:00.006-06:00

Good morning everyone!

It is still frightfully cold here, and we are wondering where our Summer has been hiding. Oh well, Mother Nature will do what she wants, right?

I have been busily creating cards, paper sculptures and teaching.

Here are some of the projects I worked on -

I love the way this one turned out. To get the water effect I filled a baggy with hair gel (the cheapest I could find) - I tinted it by dipping a marker into the bag and then smooshing it around which also created bubbles. I sealed the baggy and then attached it to the back of the aperture and added the stamped and coloured image of the mermaid behind that. This is one of my favorite "get whale" cards.

I had a wonderful visit from two lovely sisters from British Columbia who wanted to learn some parching. Now, for those of you who aren't very familiar with parchment craft, it is not a craft that can be taught in an afternoon, but I did my best to teach them the basics.

Here is a pic of Ruth and Dorothy proudly displaying their finished projects.

I have also been busily visiting other blogs, the best way to learn new things in my opinion. I came across this great contest that I want to share with all of you. Go to this site and hope for the best - good luck to all who enter. http://priscillastyles.blogspot.com/

Have fun everyone, will be in touch soon.

Want this badge?

The weather outside is frightful

2009-07-06T20:22:00.011-06:00

So what better way to spend this week than crafting in my wonderful space? I have to say though, I don't understand this weather at all. It is COLD here!!!

I have made several cards, and worked on a few other projects and am pretty happy with the results.

I think I was so relieved to finish the book I was writing and illustrating for our little Trey's 4th birthday and to get it mailed out, that it was just a nice way to unwind...

Another thing that was great, was that I got to spend some time with my SU demonstrator. She brought a couple things that she thought I might like, and boy was she right! I absolutely fell in love with the water colour crayons, in fact ordered some right then and there. She was so nice, and left hers with me so I could play. And play I did.

Here are a couple of samples.

I have to say that I have always loved watercolour and was quite happy using my pencils, but these are fabulous! The paint is so easy to pick up with your brush, and it is really nice to push around on the paper.

Anyway, next thing I wanted to do, was something that would at least feel like Summer.

I used my Marvy Markers and a digi stamped image and just had fun.

This little girl looks so much like my sister did when she was 3 or 4, it is eerie..... And you have to love this little surfer dude. It was a lot of fun making these.

Finally, I wanted to try working on some actual stamping, which has never been my strong suit, anywaym I was missing my best friend and wanted to make her a card that would convey that message. I think this one will do it.

This card was just for fun. I used some of my favorite stamping up papers and wanted to see if this idea would work as an invitation to a little girl's party and as a super girlie thinking of you card. I love how it turned out.
Finally I had to work on my parchment skills. I admit that I am not thrilled with the piercing, but the painting was a pleasure to do. I guess she's okay, but the card could be better. It will probably end up in my "oops" drawer for further work.

Finally, here are the pages from Trey's book. Enjoy

Good Saturday morning everyone!

2009-06-20T08:04:00.007-06:00

It is a beautiful morning. The birds are expressing their joy with raucous delight, the sun is shining, and it isn't even 8:00 a.m. To those of you who have known me for a long time, yes, its true, I am up with the birds every single morning now. I like having coffee with my honey, before he leaves for work at 5:00 a.,.

I have to tell you that this week was excellent. I finally saw a wonderful lady surgeon who was able to give us the great news that the lumps in my breast and surrounding lymph nodes are definitely NOT cancer. What a relief. Now we wait to see a dermatologist/surgeon who will determine what treatment I will have to follow. I can live with that.

Blog Award!!!

As if that weren't enough good news, I awoke to find out that I had been awarded a blog award by Trish ! Trish is not only a wonderful card maker, but I am proud to say a terrific friend too. I love how the net allows us to call someone who lives on the other side of the planet a friend.

Here is how it works -

1. Comment on this blog.

2. Cut and paste the award logo and use it on your own blog.

3. Nominate 5 to 10 blogs you feel show great attitude and gratitude.

4. Link to your nominees within your blog post.

5. Comment on their blogs to let them know they received the award.

6. Link back to the person who gave you the award to show your appreciation.

And so it is with great pleasure that I nominate the following bloggers for an award:

Denise Clark's inspirational blog - STAMPING VACATION. I love this blog and feel as if I have come to know Denise through her writing and crafting. Well worth a visit.

Hands, Head and Heart, Melanie Muenchinger's terrific blog. Melanie is a designer for Gina K. and I love her stamp sets. Great inspiration, warm and friendly tone.

The Born Doodler, Michael Strong's Blog. Now if you aren't familiar with Mike's beautiful stamps and recycling genius, you must visit his site.

Soxsational Scraps, probably the first blog I became a fan of. I love her work, her generosity and the great new sites she refers us too. Her art is awesome, and her digital sets are gorgeous!

Scrapped into a frenzy! My wonderful friend Betty is the owner of this one. If you want to learn how to design from a sketch or how to create beautiful whimsical cards, this is the one for you. Betty, hope your birthday was wonderful yesterday!

and last but not least

Amazing Paper Grace Becca's blog takes my breath away. I have yet to visit it and not be blown away by her art. These are not mere cards, they are frame-worthy pieces that I would love to be able to replicate.

There are so many more blogs that I love, so please don't think this is my whole list and for goodness sake, the order of my nominations is insignificant, I just wrote what came to my mind first...

Ladies and Mike thank you for providing the stimuli which is the impetus for my creativity.

Hugs,

Danielle

Father's Day and all that goes with it...

2009-06-06T12:22:00.005-06:00

Good morning everyone!

Father's Day is coming up. Like Mother's Day, it is bitter sweet for me. Both my parents have passed and I have always felt like an orphan on these days. That is up until recently.

My husband has a wonderful set of parents. His father, is the type of father every person should have. Caring, generous and kind. What more could a person ask for.

So, I wanted to make him something different and special as a card. I thought about everything this 80+ year old man does, and decided that what I wished most for him was a day of calm, of peace.

Here is what I made for him. The deck chair is made of paper, in fact the only parts of this little gift, that are not paper are the ribbon on the lid and the acetate sides of the display box. The little red book is actually a miniature card with a greeting on it. On the lid, I wrote "Relax and Enjoy your Day".

Although fiddly to make because of the little teeny folds, it was fun too. I am looking forward to making others in this series.

I sure hope he likes it.

Enjoy!

Hugs,

Danielle

Sometimes you just hafta have fun!!!

2009-06-04T02:31:00.013-06:00

Several months ago, during one of our usual telephone conversations, I told our little grandson a story about how his Nana had caught a fairy. It was a story that kept us busy for a good 4 or 5 minutes which is pretty good for a three year old!!! After our talk, I went about my business. The little tale I had told kept circling around and eventually started telling itself.

I love fairies. In fact, I love them so much, that I decided to try and collect them. It isn't as hard as one would think... you just have to be very vigilant and strike when the moment is right.

The steps to follow are quite simple. First one must create an environment that the fairy will like to stay in. I decided to make a box with a window and to decorate it with pretty things. Of course, you have to remember to leave holes so she (or he) can breathe. Perforate profusely...

That being done, I set upon my quest. I sat very still for many a night waiting for one to appear. I had no doubt that one would, since I had proof that they came to our home regularly just to cause mischief (as evidenced by lost keys, missing socks, last cookie being eaten, etc.).

One night, as I pondered the meaning of life and what I should make for dinner the next day, it happened! There right in front of my tired eyes was a pretty little redheaded fairy (was there ever any doubt?).

I quietly grabbed a colander (a perfect tool although one could use a strainer or net as well) and BAM! SHE WAS MINE!!!! Muahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!

Quickly grasping my long handled tweezers I carefully lifted her out of the clever trap I had set and placed her in her new home. I left the room so she could accommodate herself to her new environment but left the camera on automatic (yup, I am always thinking). It was set to take pics every few minutes. When I awoke the next morning, she was curled up sleeping in the corner of her box... I downloaded the photos and this is what I saw....

Okay, so maybe it wasn't such a great idea....

Sisters at Delivery

2009-05-31T17:48:00.018-06:00

Good Sunday afternoon!

A lady from one of the crafty groups I belong to, asked if anyone had a 3D sheet set for a woman who wanted a thank you card for her sister who would be partnering her at the birth of her child. We didn't. But I felt inspired and set to sketching.

Now as many of you know, I do not do 3D sheets, but there is a wonderful lady in our group who creates the most amazing sheet sets and so we collaborated. We had done so before and I loved the way it had turned out, so I knew that if anybody could make something out of my drawing it would be Penny Wessenauer. Penny did not disappoint and she made my doodle look so good, that I can't help but wish that I had someone to make this card for.

Anyway, here is the end result. Hope you enjoy, and please feel free to help yourself click on freebies link

Hugs,

Danielle

CRAFTY BY NATURE NEWS

2009-05-28T17:44:00.040-06:00

Hi everyone-

Check out our new website CraftybyNature. Paul has been working hard to set it up as I want it, and in my opinion, has done an awesome job. Feel free to poke around, and to hang out in the Crafty chat room. Invite your friends to join you for some real time chat. And stay tuned for some fun projects, shared ideas, and much more.

BIG NEWS!!!! THE CRAFTBOX IS HERE!!!!!

The wonderful prize that you all helped me win from The Original Scrap Box is here! And what a busy time we have had of it.

We received the CRAFTBOX exactly when we were told we would.

Fed Ex called us to make an appointment to deliver it to our home. They then explained that they would drop off the skid contents as "close to our door as possible" but that they would not bring it to our apartment. We were okay with that and waited for them. Once it was here, I left it up to son James to bring it up the three flights of stairs to our home. Thank goodness he is in shipping and receiving because he knew exactly how to go about it and got it up here without breaking bones or the contents of the boxes.

Paul and I had decided to wait until the weekend to put it together because of his work schedule. Sunday finally came, and we got down to setting up what we thought was going to be James'
Bedroom/slash my craftroom/our office. Turns out that James prefers remaining on the couch in the living room because the TV is in there and the kitchen is close - geez can that boy eat!

Anyway, putting the whole CRAFTBOX together took Paul and James about two hours with breaks. It is a beautiful piece of furniture/organizing armoire that converts into a storage craft table for the home. impressive really and very well made. We were quite delighted. I have taken pictures which I will gladly share with you. I feel obligated to issue a WARNING at this point. CAUTION – 50+year old shirtless man in pictures!

The CRAFTBOX is no cheap kit in a box deal. Every piece was clearly marked, and beautifully handcrafted. Every screw, peg, bracket, etc, fit perfectly, nothing was skewed, scratched or warped. The wood is gleaming, and the finished piece is very high end I would gladly display it in any room in our home

The actual task was easy. There were no frustrated curse words, or arguments (as is wont to happen when one puts together a piece of furniture from a kit). No special tools needed, just the usual screw driver. I was surprised to see that the company’s logo The Original Scrap Box was beautifully etched on a piece of brass and looked great on the CRAFTBOX rather than screaming at like the usual glaring piece of advertising.

Between the three of us, we managed to empty the room, put the CRAFTBOX together and fill up the room! We reconfigured the computer and did all of that fun stuff. Finally came the time to start loading my stuff. I learned two things... The SCRAPBOX Storage System has room for tons of stuff. With multiple drawers , shelving it holds all of my paper and more, I especially like the Velcro carry totes bags that attach to the inside of the doors (very clever and hugely convenient). The second thing that I learned is that I had TOO MUCH STUFF!!!!!

With great resolve, I decided to go through every single scrap of paper, ephemera, tool and more to see what I could give away, sell, or throw out.

It is now Thursday, and I can finally say that I am ready to craft.

The room looks really good, feels good too. The storage unit is awesome and although I keep the doors open most of the time, I especially like what the room looks like when the doors are closed.

Would I recommend the Craftbox to my friends? YES! In a heartbeat, It is the perfect solution for hiding what we as compulsive paper and embellishment, etc, collectors love so much, and yet having it at the ready for whenever the urge to create strikes.

If you want to know more visit the site by clicking one of the links in this blog and if you decide to purchase one (use Craftybynature as your coupon code) you will receive a $100.00 off the total shipping cost. You can also use the banner at the bottom of this blog.

I can tell you that it is well worth the investment, it is any crafter's dream

Happy crafting everyone!

Love,

Danielle

~ Every piece that is created with feeling
is a portrait of the artist.

I know its been a while....

2009-05-05T07:18:00.003-06:00

But what a while its been.

I can't believe that I won the Scrapbox Contest!First prize The Craft Box™ it is every crafter’s dream great for scrapbooking storage Thank you so much for all your votes.

Of course now we have to get the room ready for when it arrives. Talk about daunting tasks. There is so much stuff in here, and I just don't know where I am going to put it for the time being. But like all journeys, I guess we will start with one little step.

Sorting... ugh. I keep thinking I have come up with the best way to sort my crafty things, but then another way comes up that I think might be better. Should it be color, theme, type?

All paper together, all brads together, all everything together... Or all blue together, all green together, etc. Help! I need your advice. What do you think?

What works best for you when it comes to storage? What makes everything easy to access? Please let me know.

Of course, for the time being James is still on the couch and we are still battling this gawd awful flu. Not that that has stopped me from being creative. Being sick quiets me down and allows me to focus on one little thing, since I don't have the energy to be scattered.

So I have created at least ten projects between naps. It's nice to know that something is being accomplished while I recouperate.

Anyway, I will post pictures a little later. For now, well its time for another nap.

Take care.

Crafters Kitchen

2009-03-21T00:59:00.003-06:00

I have been visitng many blogs to see what people are doing.

I have to tell you this one is one of my favorites. I love the way Jak writes and her work. I haven't missed one of her posts yet.

I highly recommend you check her out.

http://crafterskitchen.blogspot.com

More ATCs

2009-02-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

These were done for a swap. Fun to do and easy too.

ATCs (Artist Trading Cards)

2009-02-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

I have discovered that I like working on small surfaces.

Here are a bunch of ATCs I made using a faux handmade paper technique. In my enthusiasm I made way too many for the swap, so I have plenty left.

Anyone want to trade?

Face in the mirror

2009-02-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

I drew this with my sister Claudette in mind, but when it came time to send it out, I couldn't find it anywhere. I looked high and low, and it was just gone! Vanished.

More than a month later I was going through some seldom used paper and what should fall out but my little card. Phew! I love this drawing and really was disappointed it had been lost before I had taken a picture. But its all good now... And I can always send it out next year...

I am ahead of the game, I already have one Christmas card made!

Dream Come True or Worse Nightmare

2009-02-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

So there I was doing my thing in my craft room, when Paul comes in and declares himself a "Crafter's Widower"! He proceeds to say, "well if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

He sits down and starts asking for paper, my scissors (ahhhh, my scissors) dimensions of a scrapling, etc.). He continues chatting away and wants my glue, my this and my that. Each time I have to stop what I am doing to fill his request and ooh and ahh... lol but he ends up handing me a lovely scrapling which I proudly showed to the group and displayed in our office/craft room.

He was very pleased with himself and couldn't wait to read the comments from all my group friends. They didn't disapppoint. They all love the idea of a dh joining in and all hate the idea of sharing their tools. I don't think I have much to worry about, since the last thing he said after completing it was "I don't think I'll be doing this again" and "I will never Iris Fold... too picky!"

Me thinks he doth protest too much. Watch this space for more from my Honey.

SCRAPLINGS!

2009-02-07T08:59:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed making these. Love the way they use up even the tiniest scrap. Looking forward to making many more.

Japanese Pyramid Card?

2009-02-07T02:35:00.000-07:00

This was my first pyramid card. I made it for my sister Claudette.

Halloween Pop-Up

2009-02-07T02:34:00.000-07:00

This was for little Trey. I wanted to make him a card that would make him chuckle. It did.

OOPS!

2009-02-07T02:32:00.000-07:00

THIS is the card I made for my friend, the other one was for my daughter.

3D Window Card

2009-02-07T02:31:00.000-07:00

I like this one. I made it for a friend, with the idea that her little boy would like it. I think he did almost as much as the gift we got him... NOT! How can a card compete with Martian Matter?

Boxed In!

2009-02-07T02:28:00.000-07:00

This was a lesson from another group. The deal is you had to make it and show it. So I made it and showed it. I wasn't thrilled with the results and am sure that it would be a lot better if I were to make it now, since I have my Scor-Pal.

Another Queen Bee Challenge

2009-02-07T02:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this one is actually iris folded. The piece was more about the elements than the actual technique. I found some images of old soap wrappers on line, and adapted them to suit my purpose. I added the crown to the little girl and thanks to some tips from Lisa Vollrath on her Go Make Something site, I came up with this piece. I think I might actually make one for myself someday...

Blah, Blah, Blah!!!

2009-02-07T02:23:00.000-07:00

It was time for another telephone/address book. I wanted a little binder since the people in my life change addresses and phone numbers like most of us change our socks.

We found the binder all right, a boring black leatherette thing and I just couldn't leave it alone. This si one I came up with.

Another Scor-Pal Project

2009-02-07T02:21:00.000-07:00

I needed a place to store stamped imaged. This cute little project seemed to be the perfect solution. I had a little trouble with the sides, I think my measurements were a tad off, but it sure is serving its purpose. I will be making more of these...

I finally gor my Scor-Pal!!!

2009-02-07T02:19:00.001-07:00

Finally it came in the mail. I went nuts scoring everything in sight. But finally decided to actually make something. I chose to use it to create a challenge card - themed "Green". I used my favorite green paper and following the instructions I found on the Scor-Pal site, made this window card. I used my Martha Stewart Circle cutter for the circles, and a tiny flower punch for the embellishment on the inside circle.

I think it turned out pretty well for a first try.

Pinkand Orange Challenge

2009-02-07T02:09:00.001-07:00

Two of my favorite colours in one challenge? Of course I had to go for it. I created the paisley paper in photoshop and the rest was a piece of cake. I quilled the flower embellishment, and soaked it in Porcelain Petal to give it more shine and subtance. I like the way this card turned out.

Let it Snow

2009-02-07T02:07:00.000-07:00

An obvious piece to create for a Snowman card made for another group I belong to. SSSD. I water coloured him, and triple folded the card, so that the message has another image below it. It's hard to see here, but it is a puddle with a scarf, hat, carrot, etc., floating in it.

What Bird?

2009-02-07T02:04:00.000-07:00

We were given the opportunity to create a "free" card in the Card Craft Group I belong to. I felt silly, and this is what I came up with. Designed in photoshop, and then 3D'ed. I like the look on the cat's face, and well the whole feel of the card. I hope the recipient gets a good chuckle out of it as well.

Another Tax payment

2009-02-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

This fancy folded tax was for another Queen Bee of the Iris Folding Group.

She was fun to make. I used real lace for the gown inset and facy folded the rest of her dress. The rest of her was coloured with markers and pencils.

Paulette's Birthday Card

2009-02-07T01:58:00.001-07:00

Although Paulette and Claudette are twins, they are very different people. Claudette is more of an airy fairy bohemian type, and Paulette is more earthy, and at times salty... I thought she would get a good laugh out of this card and it was a hoot to make as well.

I designed the background in Photoshop and 3D'ed all the important parts... LOL!

The Dreaded Marilyn Piece

2009-02-07T01:55:00.000-07:00

Yes another Iris folded card (well fancy folded since I never have an Iris, or almost never), and this one was a killer. The theme was "Star" and I couldn't just make a star, noooooo, I had to choose a celebrity as my subject. I wanted to reproduce the Marilyn pose that is most popular, where she is on the grate and the air is causing her dress to billow up. Not enough that I wanted to reproduce the movement, but I decided to do it with SATIN RIBBON!!! Slippery as all heck!

Marilyn Monroe was quoted as saying "Don't be afraid of the dark, because that is where a star shines brightest". So an apt subject right?

I started this project over at least five times. That's a lot of ribbon to throw in the garbage. I was ready to trash the whole project when Paul came home from work with several rolls of ribbon and urged me to give it one more try. By removing her legs from my design I was able to finish her to my satisfaction.

I know one thing for sure, I will never make another like her!

Again, I designed the background in Photoshop, and watercoloured her, outlining was done in marker.

Tribute to a Queen!

2009-02-07T01:44:00.001-07:00

Yes, another Iris Folded card. This was my favorite until this month's Queen Bee card. And I can't show you that one until the Queen has it in hand.

She was made as a "tax" for last month's Queen Bee on the Iris Folding group I belong to. I designed the background and hat in Photoshop and then drew her in marker. I water-coloured her and iris folded or rather fancy folded her dress. Her hair, which I quilled took 6 feet of strips! If you notice her hair is white. Hmmm, think there is a message there? Anyway, I loved the way she turned out.

What did she say?

2009-02-07T01:41:00.000-07:00

This is the Christmas card I made our friend Robert. I think she is pretty self-explanatory. I try to think up outrageous cards for him every year. The previous year's card was "Vixen" pole dancing in a bar where elves and deer would go to unwind.

Two Friends, One Pair of Shoes

2009-02-07T01:38:00.000-07:00

The theme of this challenge was wearable items. I wanted something Diva-licious for the lady who was going to receive this.

Wild Thing!

2009-02-07T01:35:00.001-07:00

The theme for this challenge was wild. The first thought that came to my mind was Maurice Sendak's delicious book "Where the Wild Things Are". This little guy was my favorite in the story, I especially love his armpit hair sticking out of his sweater. But then again I would. He was drawn and coloured with Staedler Markers - my favorites. lol

My Daughter's Card

2009-02-07T01:32:00.000-07:00

I made this card at a time when my daughter was going through some very trying situations. I wanted to inspire her without being preachy and to express how much I love her without being too mushy. This seemed to be the perfect way to express everything I felt. Out of respect for her privacy, I will not display the interior of the card.

Yet another Iris Foldiong Challenge

2009-02-07T01:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to elicit the whole Art Deco/ART Nouveau feel with this piece. I like the movement in this card. Again I designed the background in Photoshop and took it from there.

Kokopelli

2009-02-07T01:28:00.000-07:00

Here is another Iris Folded card I made for yet another challenge themed Music. According to legend, Kokopelli was the god of fertility and music. Apparently he would bring flowers and music to a village. When he inevitably left, most of the village girls were pregnant. Sort of like today's rock stars... Some things never change.

Fly like an Eagle

2009-02-07T01:24:00.000-07:00

This 3D card was made for Paul's closest friend Cam. It was a labor of love and Cam was very happy with it.

Asian Iris Folded card

2009-02-07T01:22:00.000-07:00

I have to say that this is one of my favorite pieces. When I first conceived her, I knew that I neede authentic paper for her to have the look I saw in my head. We actually trecked down to Chinatown to find what I needed. She is composed of Josh Paper, origami paper, and a whole bunch of other goodies we found during our foray through the little shops. Many of the shopkeepers were more than generous, with their time, explanations and enthusiasm for my project(s). This was also the only time I got Paul to eat in a vegetarian restaurant and knowingly consume tofu!

Another Iris Folded card.

2009-02-07T01:18:00.000-07:00

She is drawn in pencil, outlined in fine line marker and coloured with my good ol' Prismacolours.

2009-02-07T01:16:00.001-07:00

One of Paul's employee's asked me to make a card for his wedding anniversary. This is what I came up with.

Josée and John's wedding card

2009-02-07T01:12:00.001-07:00

Now this card was special. I made it for my little sister's wedding, I have to say that I was really happy with the way it turned out. Parchment cards are so pretty when done well, I have seen some pieces that take my breath away. This one was made with a whole lot of love for Josée and John.

Breezy Lady

2009-02-07T01:10:00.000-07:00

This was made for another group I belong to - Iris Folding. The pattern was made by a member and we were all given the challenge of reproducing her. I designed the background with Photoshop and quilled her hair. Which reminds me, almost all of my "ladies" have red hair. Those of you who know me, know why...

Polka - dot.

2009-02-07T01:08:00.000-07:00

I loved making this card. She was made for a challenge on Card Crafts - the theme - if you haven't already figured it out - was Polka Dots. Can you see her little cat in the corner?

Edmonton Fringe Festival Poster

2009-02-07T01:05:00.000-07:00

This is the first poster I made for the Roguespeare Players at the Edmonton Fringe Festival, there have been several others since and I will show them to you some day. Paul and I work on the Fringe stuff together since he is more adept at the actual "building of the poster", I usually am responsible for the art and the spelling...

First Parchment Card

2009-02-07T00:59:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with the look of Parchment Craft (Pergamano) and decided to give it a whirl. This was my first piece. I was pretty pleased with myself.

2009-02-07T00:52:00.001-07:00

Just a fun card for my sister's birthday. Note she is drinking orange juice. lol

Trey at 3 months sketch

2009-02-04T18:06:00.001-07:00

This is our little grandson Trey when he was 3 months old. We couldn't get to Montreal and I wanted to be close to him, so I drew him, for us... Paul decided to frame the drawing as a surprise for me. It now hangs in our office/craft room along with many pictures of him.

I used coloring pencils, Prismacolor, my favorite for this piece.

Shout out to Sheetload of Cards

2009-01-15T09:39:00.005-07:00

Good morning everyone:

I thought I would tell you about one of my favorite sites in the WWW.

SHEETLOAD OF CARDS - The first thing that attracted me was the name. I thought it was clever without being too cutesy. I don't do cutesy as you all know.

Then when I checked it out I was blown away. This E-zine is fabulous! and amazingly it is FREE! Which is my favorite price.

All you have to do is register at their site.

Click on today's title - I have linked it to their January issue - check it out - I am sure you will love it as much as I do.

I will be added several new pics to my photobucket too, so don't forget to take a look.

Have a great day and remember

Every piece that is created with feeling is a portrait of the artist

Mea Culpa!

2009-01-12T18:49:00.003-07:00

Okay, so stop nagging. I am back... sheesh...

I have been busy creating various cards, ATCs and altered items, and I have been loving it.

If any of you want to trade ATCs please let me know. I would love that.

I am so glad the holidays are over and that we have the time to do the things we love. I really missed just being creative rather than having to take care of specific tasks like Christmas cards.

I have had the luxury of visiting several blogs, some that are my new favorites, please check them out.

Particularly Head, Hands and Heart
http://melaniemuenchinger.blogspot.com/2009/01/more-paper-candy-for-you.html

http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/
which is a really cool site if you want to know how to ...

http://chrissyd723.blogspot.com/
Really lovely site

http://artisticallydesigneddiversions.blogspot.com/
Just an appealing site with nice ideas

If you're looking for challenges, check out the Arty Girlz
http://artygirlzchallengeblog.blogspot.com/

And don't forget Zak's

there are many more and I will be sure to add them in the near future.

Have a great day!

Muah xx

Good morning World (2)

2008-12-06T05:56:00.005-07:00

Good morning Famly and Friends:

I woke up to a beautiful sight. My world blanketed in white. Finally we have snow.

I love the way it looks and feels. Everything seems so clean, and quiet.

This beautiful white world has inspired me to attempt a watercolour painting that has been percolating for the past few days. I can only hope it will work as I would like it to be a gift for my youngest sister.

Wish me luck.

I know I haven't been consistent with my posting, but it is just such a busy time of year, and if I can drop one thing off of my to-do list, I will.

I have created many new cards and will post them in my photobucket album at some point this weekend.

For now, I have to get ready as my friend Carol is coming over because she needs me to help her make Liam's little mouse costume for his 1st grade Christmas play. There are tails (?) to be sewn...

Have a blessed day, I promise I will do better and write more.

Gee, it HAS been a while

2008-11-28T11:53:00.003-07:00

Hi everyone:

I know, it's been a while and I am truly sorry that I have been so quiet lately. Since I put my back out it was very difficult to sit in a chair for more than a minute or so. Of course the docs gave me meds, and I spent a few days flying Air Percocet. Not my favorite feeling in the world, although I do like the no pain part, so I only took them for a couple of days.

The only residual effect of the back problem is a loss of sensation in parts of my foot. Am seeing the diabetes specialist in a couple of weeks and he will know what to do about that.

So, I managed to make a few more cards, which you can check out in my photobucket, otherwise, I am trying to catch up on swaps, housework and sleep.

I will try to be more consistent when it comes to writing, but I will promise to at least touch bases once a week... THAT I know I can do.

So, thanks for all the get well wishes, the cards both snail and e mail and finally the prayers.

I am good, really, feeling like myself and raring to go (as long as it doesn't involve walking - lol.

Take care everyone, and to all my American friends, Happy Thanksgiving, go easy on the Black Friday experience...

Hugs and all that.

I'm baaaack

2008-11-11T23:27:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone:

Did you miss me?

Man oh man what a week this has been. I have barely been able to drag myself away from my studio.

We have a very challenging photo restoration project on our plates. These photos have been in wallets, tucked into books, carried around in purses and pockets, and just plain mauled.

They are wrinkled, have tape on them, torn in places, and the people are wearing vintage print clothing that you can hardly make out. The glare is horrendous in most of the photos since the photographer had his subjects facing the sun... Well, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger right?

I also had two sets of ATCs to get done, have one mailed off already. The second one, well that is a whole other ball of wax. I thought they were complete, all except for my signature, but just before I was to sign them, I thought oh why not add, such and such to give the images more depth... I HATE them. Have to start every single one over. So guess who won't be getting much sleep (if any) tonight.

I also have a couple books to finish making, haven't finished the structure and sure haven't worked on the cover art, and finally an Iris Folding project due in 5 days!!! Oh and did I mention two cards for a swap and a prize package for a contest I ran?

So my Lovelies, don't be too sad if you don't hear from me for the next couple days. Be content knowing that I am happily creating my little heart out.

Thanks for checking in.

Hugs and all that.

Monday all over again

2008-11-03T21:26:00.003-07:00

Hi Folks:

It's Monday again. Hubby is had today off and we decided to go galivanting. We ended up at a craft store and they were having a terrific sale on paper products. I was able to pick up some beautiful additions to my cache.

My sisters received their birthday cards and were very happy with them. It is funny how identical twins can be so different. They have such different tastes but look the same.

I know I promised to publish some pics of my latest work, but I just didn't have the time to do it today. Hopefully tomorrow, but I won't promise since I hate breaking promises.

Well I know that this isn't the great Canadian Novel, especially today, but I am going to sign off right away. I ache in places that I didn't even know I had.

Have a good evening everyone.

Bye for now.

Already sunday???

2008-11-02T13:10:00.002-07:00

Hi Folks!

I can't believe it is already Sunday! I know I lost a couple of days because I was ill, but still is it just me or is time moving much faster? Certainly, it can't be because I am getting older... right?

So, with the computer down yesterday, I actually got quite a few cards made, I know I promised I would have new pics for you, and I will. . . tomorrow.

My Australian friend Betty is being so helpful. I am trying to improve my parchment technique and she is doing all she can to make it happen. Love you Betty!

My Texan friend Betty and I are going to collaborate on a card. I am so looking forward to the experience, since this kind of art is usually a solitary experience.

I have many swaps and challenges to take care of this week. I want to have everything ready to be mailed by Thursday.

I expect Christmas card orders will be coming in soon as well as poster and flyer requests for the Agencies we volunteer our services for. This is a crazy time of the year and I always look forward to its being over.

For the first time in recent memory children did not have to wear snowsuits and boots for Halloween. It was actually pretty toasty according to our standards. I enjoyed listening to their screams of delight even while I lay in my sick bed - well okay, it was a sick couch - television was my friend.

Our little grandson was a pirate this year and I hope to have pics to share when his mom gets them to me. He still isn't speaking to me. Doesn't like Nana anymore. I know patience is a virtue, but it is one I am very quickly running out of. I miss our chats but will continue to wait for him to come around. He is angry because Nana lives far and doesn't visit. I would let him in on a secret if he would let me, Nana is pretty choked about that too.

Oh, to add insult to injury, yesterday a major water main broke in the street in front of our home so we were without water for 24+ hours. Not fun! Isn't it amazing how spoiled we are with our luxuries - I do believe that indoor plumbing is a luxury that is unheard of for many of the planet's inhabitants. I can't imagine having to cart water from some outside sourse to do all of my chores. I try to remind myself of how lucky we are when I am feeling a little sorry for myself... You know those "{wahhh I didn't have a pony when I was little" kind of days.

But I digress. The city workers toiled all day and all night and restored our services about an hour ago. They are just cleaning up the site and preparing to leave. Bless their hearts, I sure appreciate what they did.

Okay, so I am off to do the dishes, and maybe even take a shower!

Have a great Sunday evening!

Welcome to Thursday!

2008-10-30T21:01:00.002-06:00

Hi folks:

Today was a much better day, and I decided to obey doctor's orders and take it easy. It was a great excuse to play with all the goodies I received lately and make a few more Christmas cards. I will post pics in my photobucket tomorrow since I haven't quite figured out the new camera yet.

We finished the pet grooming project which was really pretty easy, a few flyers and business cards, and now just have to wait for the client to pick them up.

Hubby is working through the night as always on the 30th day of the month. There is so much more to being a Senior Chef/Kitchen Manager than just cooking.

I was able to catch up with my emails, all 350+ and even watched a little television.

I got another wonderful phone call from my daughter, who is still receiving RAKs from the card group I belong to. She has now decorated her bedroom door with them. She was in fine spirits, and although I suppose a part of this is due to her meds kicking in, I truly believe that your cards and best wishes played a huge part in her recovery.

My grandson being typical, has decided that he "doesn't like Nana anymore". I reminded myself that this was just a phase and not to let my feelings be hurt. He is three going on 30 so I can wait until he gets through this. This Nana will continue to love him with all her heart.

I made another bay window card, and a couple of 3D cards, and have all the pieces cut for a few more. So I will be busy this evening.

Thank you again for your best wishes.

Hugs for each of you.

Thank you

2008-10-29T17:51:00.002-06:00

Hi Folks:

Thank you for your get well wishes. I am feeling a little more like myself today. Being diabetic is no fun. Never mind having to inject myself 5 times a day, but some of the complications can be a real problem.

I still managed to cut out some elements and do a little artsy stuff today, but I wasn't really in the mood.

I am sured I will be back to my old chipper self by tomorrow.

I received two wonderful PIFs yesterday. Lots of goodies in them. And today I received a package of wonderful things from one of my favorite online merchants - Sky Blue Pink.

They are having a great sale and I couldn't resist, my favorite is the mystery box of goodies. You pay whatever price and they send you double in various ephemera. I absolutely love what I got.

Of course I received the blank books I had ordered, and the blank ATCs so I can get started on those.

Funny, I feel like a hamster on one of those wheels, moving as fast as I can and not getting much accomplished. I want to get into my parchment craft and learn as much as I can, but that may have to wait until I have finished all of my Christmas cards.

For tonight though, I am going to have a bath, and rest.

Tomorrow I will be back on track.

Thanks for dropping in.

Not much to tell today

2008-10-28T02:08:00.002-06:00

Hello Folks:

Today has been spent in a creative, inspired, friendzy. I have watercoloured, decoupaged, collaged and 3-D'd to my heart's content. Nice thing is I am pleased with all of the results... I hardly had to throw anything out. lol

I received some wonderful PIFs in the mail today. PIF stands for Pay it Forward. That is where someone in our group posts that she has something(s) to give away, you then ask for it, and post something that you are willing to give away, hence it is paid forward.

There were stickers, and rub ons, letters, and embellishments, a card mailer, etc. Nice, I feel as if every day is Christmas these days.

It is 2:30 a.m. and I am still sitting in here wondering what to do while the water colour dries properly. Perhaps another 3D?

I know, a sane person would go to bed, but I never claimed to be sane...

Do you get the same buzz I do when you know that a piece you are working on is going to turn out? It just fills me up. Don't be shy, please post a comment here, let me know you have visited.

I would love to hear from you.

Night night,

Sunday, Sunday SUNDAY!

2008-10-26T20:29:00.000-06:00

Hallooooooo Folks!

I am still in my pyjamas. The guys are watching a pay per view wrestling thingy and I get to play in here. Woohoo!

Dinner was nice, we had our monthly "picnic", where we lay out a buffet of goodies and we pick at it throughout the evening. This evening's fare was a baguette, asiago cheese dip and spinach/artichoke dip, three different kinds of sausages, 4 types of cheese, potato salad, coleslaw, pimento stuffed and garlic stuffed olives, thai pickles, smoked oysters and mussels.

I can't remember having this lazy a day. I read, watched girl tv (you know decorating shows, What not to Wear, spoiled brides and interfering mothers-inlaw) - just what I needed.

Of course the day wouldn't have been complete without catching up on emails and creating (very little) in the studio. I embellished the Bay Window Card, made a 3D embellishment and played with rubber stamps. No great results, but at least did something.

Now, I have to prepare to packages I have to mail tomorrow, and work on a couple other projects, included a parchment card.

I love the look of parch craft. So delicate and pretty. I also love using my pastels to blend colours on the reverse side. Everything looks so ethereal.

Some of the stamps I received in my "RAK" were pretty badly stained. Water sure wasn't going to get them clean, but I remembered a trick I used to use for removing ink from my children's clothing. Hairspray! So I thought, why not? I saturated the stamps with hairspray (I always have some in the studio to use as a fixative for my charcoal or chalk pastel work) and wiped the stamps off. Guess what? It worked. I rinsed them off, and voila! They now look practically new.

Okay I am off to do whatever I can... Onward and upward and all that.

Saturday, and your point is?

2008-10-25T20:45:00.002-06:00

Hi folks:

It is Saturday, which is just like any other day here since both men are working.

I have spent the day in total decadence doing nothing but playing in my studio. I am one happy camper.

I have had the chance to take photos of some of the cards I have made and will post them as soon as I figure out how to.

Oh my gosh, I almost forgot, it SNOWED today! The wind has been howling, at one point I was worried it would blow out our windows, but nope, no trip to the Emerald City just yet. Anyway, I don't think the Wizard will ever be ready for me or my little cat too. (sorry no dog).

I finished the bay window card and am really happy with it, although there are a few things I would do differently next time.

Got the cards to my sisters, the Twins, mailed, and I am only a few days late.

I think my new year's resolution is to mail things to family and friends in plenty of time. I am real good about doing to the other crafters in my groups, but family? not so much.

I have "met" this delightful lady through one of the groups. She is 82 years young and just a wonderful person. I am so happy to call her friend. Wish she lived closer though, maybe she would adopt me. lol but Australia is a little far away.

The cats have almost forgiven us for shaving them.

Paul and James are good. Life is good.

And I am going back to play.

Night night all! Or in Betty's case, g'morning!

People can be so kind

2008-10-24T15:04:00.002-06:00

It is well into the afternoon. Housework is finished (for now) and just as I was about to sit and start working on the Bay Window Card, the doorbell rang. I was expecting a package so I wasn't terribly surprised to see the mailman standing there.

He handed me a box and went on his way.

I carried it into my studio, still thinking it was the supplies I had ordered, but then realized that I didn't recognize the address it was shipped from.

Oh my goodness. I had been RAKed. For those of you who don't know the term, RAK stands for Random Act of Kindness. Someone from one of the card crafting groups I belong to, had sent me a box full of goodies.

Tons of amazing stuff for me to play with. Rubber Stamps, both mounted and unmounted - I haven't counted them but trust me there are lots, paper, card stock, crimpers, and a treasure trove or brads, charms and other embellishments.

Now you have to understand I don't know this lady. I don't think we have ever spoken through the group, but she decided to surprise me. And boy did I get emotional.

Of course I looked up her phone number (you gotta love the internet) and phoned her. We had a lovely chat, it was as if we had known each other for ever, sharing personal stories the way women do and becoming friends in an instant.

I will definitely keep in touch with her... and the others.

Geez, people can be so kind.

Good Morning World!

2008-10-23T07:57:00.005-06:00

I am new to this whole blog thing and not quite sure where this is going to lead, so will just write what I am thinking and hope for the best.

It is a blustery day, the wind is howling through the bare trees, the sun hasn't risen yet, and it feels like a true Autumn day. I still haven't gotten used to the dramatic weather changes here in Edmonton, even if I have been living here for almost 10 years.

I am itching to work on my latest project, but first must tackle all those worldly tasks that help our home run smoothly. Dishes, dusting, vacuuming, laundry, blah blah blah.

I also have to prepare for the cats' groomer. She will be shaving our big cat, who tends to get matted. So I am anticipating a lot of loud complaining from Fudge, since he is such a drama king... I know he will feel better once it is done, but oh the process is no fun at all.

I was thinking about the card making groups I belong to. There are so many wonderful people on them. They are talented, generous, funny, supportive and kind. I wonder if they know how important they are to me? Since I am housebound, these internet friends are my link to the outside world.

Well Hubby and son (who has been staying with us for the past few weeks) are at work and I can finally get my day started.

Hopefully will have something to show you by the end of the day.

Thanks for dropping by.