Create..Dream..Live

Sketch it Satuday

2012-02-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

Don't miss Sketch it Saturday at Scrapbooking from the Inside Out...

I had a lot of fun sketching these up on Adobe Illustrator. I don't personally use sketches, but I can now see since this was my first time creating them, how you could! So fun!

Grateful for this BEAUTIFUL weather.. but stuck inside for the moment. My girls (who I like to call Hurricane Allie and Tornado Isabelle) have left the house in quite a state.. so going to do a bit of clean up and then head to Greensboro to see my friend Kathy and then to dinner and watch a movie. Spent last night with my "sister from another mister" (love that!) Donna and her husband John. I just LOVE them both.. It was his birthday and they always make me laugh. I was blessed to meet them at the Milton Rhodes Gala a few years back. Ever since then, I knew Donna and I were always meant to be soul sisters. Be sure to check out her business. She is the one who helped SFTIO with their website!! She is truly the best. One of a kind...and my life is so much better with them in it!

Weststokes Advertising

Happy Birthday John!!!

Until next time!

Flashback Saturday...

2012-02-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a flashback to last February and Vulnerability...

http://scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.blogspot.com/2012/02/flashback-saturday.html

Been feeling pretty vulnerable lately... this week I had a tough situation where I really put myself out there... and ended up being hurt. I questioned a lot of what I really believed in but with the help of dear friends, I realized, I acted in the way that was exactly who I am. I was me. I went into the situation believing and trusting another with no basis. And that is what being vulnerable is about. Courage...

From Courageous Kate this week: Courage is: feeling afraid, diving in anyway, and transforming.

and I am thankful. I can walk away with a lesson learned. A heart that is bruised, but stronger. And a belief... That I am... worth it all.

SFTIO!! Dream.. and Create

2012-02-01T11:39:00.001-08:00

Be sure to come by Scrapbooking from the Inside Out and see what we LOVED at CHA and also.. DREAM is live...

http://scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.blogspot.com/

Video of CHA... day One and Two

2012-01-31T19:25:00.001-08:00

Here is a quick recap of Day one and two at CHA...

Enjoy!

On my way.. and some inspiration!

2012-01-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Morning! I am on my way to CA and to CHA today... some of you may ask??? what is CHA... well.... it is the Craft and Hobby Association and this is the weekend that the Winter Trade Show opens.. in easy terms.. a playground for anyone who crafts in any form or fashion.. woodworking, knitting, baking, scrapbooking. I say.. anything you can buy at a Michaels, AC Moore, Hobby Lobby, or specialty store.. you will find here! Of course.. we ALL know where I will spending MY time! :)

I will be looking at new ideas for Scrapbooking from the Inside Out.. and new ideas for me and my journey! And seeing friends and making new ones I am sure! I am truly excited and feel blessed for this opportunity. Anything you have seen you want me to keep an eye out for? (here is a great link for all the sneak peeks in one place) I am going to take lots of pics and of course videos! So keep an eye out here! Headed out this afternoon to LA and then Rachel, Melissa and I are off to Anaheim tmrw AM.

This is a GREAT post about what we do at CHA as a team at SFTIO:

CHA and SFTIO

For some inspiration this am.... check me out over on the SFTIO blog!

Sketch It Saturday!

And Don't miss our new kit!! It is JUST GORGEOUS!!

Dream

Come on by...

2012-01-13T08:18:00.000-08:00

Come on over and visit me here today...

Scrapbooking from the Inside Out

Happy Friday!

Creative Space Update

2012-01-10T03:46:00.000-08:00

Morning! I have wanted to update you on my creative space but just have not had the chance, so before the girls got up... and the day started I thought I would snap a few quick pictures. I have spent a lot of time organizing... LOTS more to go... but this is a GREAT start for me. (lets not mention the few crates in the garage I still need to go through.. but that is part of my Spring destash!!)

looking in from the door.. (don't look too close.. that could be a February sneak peek from SFTIO on the table!!)

Love my new owl from the Target dollar spot. He holds my edge punches right now.

This is opposite my work table. Pile o'mail needing to be filed. (with a book of Girls Guide to becoming a teen on the top.. ACK!) Big project in the corner... ALL my pictures... albums, negatives, frames, everything...

The side table is used for storage, but that is also the place when friends come to sit. It is an easy place for me to clean off.. and then they have easy access to all the fun!! and... Who needs to use both doors right?? Was much better space used... lets not talk about that closet ok?? between me and you?? THAT holds LOTS of other crafty goodness... my sewing machine, fabrics, all my stamps, and honestly.. the biggest area of destash... feeling a need for some of those boxes of love to be sold off..... :)

LOVE my space now... Lolo the CRAZY cat spends most of her time either on the couch.. or on the back of my office chair (with me in it). My girls are usually found playing on the floor and I am on the computer on pinterest, or cooking up a new idea. Writing a blog, or just trying to catch up. We all love this space now. When I ask them what they want to do, they now say, lets just go create Mommy!!

The New Year

2012-01-04T20:55:00.000-08:00

I have not posted in a while... the holidays had me running crazy... and I also had many personal decisions that had to be made. One of these, was incredibly hard to make. I have decided to not setup a studio space at a.l.o.e. The main reason being that I needed time just to focus inward and really concentrate on my art. Continue to take it to the next level and share that with those in my life in a way that was more organic and not as a business. Elaine and Kelly have spent such an enormous amount of time, blood, sweat, tears and heart into making the store AMAZING and I can not say enough for you to go and visit! Be sure to get a mani/pedi. See Shakira for a massage. Check out all the fun sewing classes! And be sure to see all of Elaine's "wares"... TRULY an amazing space not to be missed... a little gem in Lewisville.

I am also going to be spending more time focusing on my time as the Creative Director at Scrapbooking from the Inside Out. Blogging, layouts, lots of fun coming your way!!!

2012 is going to be my year of courage. And for me, it was a courageous step to listen to my heart, and follow it. It was one of the hardest decisions to not be a part of a.l.o.e. but I know, that in the long run, my art will grow and flourish... and my heart.. says thank you!

Here is a piece I created on a night of "craftiness" with my friend Anne Marie...

New Design Team

2011-12-05T19:51:00.000-08:00

It is the most wonderful time of the year... yes... Christmas! BUT.. also the time of year that we get to announce our new design team and I just am busting at the seams!!! These woman are very talented.. and the SFTIO team has lots in store for the next 6 months...

Of course.. they will be lead by the most fabulous

Melissa Elsner

Melissa and I have started this wild ride together when I joined SFTIO earlier this year. She is amazingly insightful. She can guide and lead, yet release and allow. There is no one better to lead this team. I feel like I already know her, but can not wait for CHA in Jan to meet her for the first time!

And the rest of the team!

First.. let me introduce you to:

Jen Matott

I personally love Jen's fun and free style. She is not afraid to mix mediums and I think you will find her style visually interesting and inspiring. We are also girls who know how to handle the winter as we both hail from upstate NY (except.. I am the one who now lives in the much warmer south!!)

Next up:

Nicole Martel

I think you will love her style. Clean, yet full of fun details. I am truly excited to get the chance to work with her.

And....

Bonita Rose

This mission statement was taken from her webpage.. "I believe in always remaining true to myself and living my life happy, no matter what. It's a choice. I always try to go where the peace is. Always."

To me, this is who Bonita is. I have only known her for part of this year, but her energy is limitless, and her heart is bigger.

Finally...

Stephanie Ackerman

Stephanie and I go back to a few years ago. Her doodles always "had me at hello" and her genuine, open, this is me style is something that you will not find in many. We have had the chance to see each other over several retreats/conferences and I am thrilled beyond measure to have her be part of the team.

I encourage you... take time... go to the site.. www.scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.com See why I am so passionate about not just these woman but the team we all create together.

Here is looking to an amazing 2012.

One class you do not want to miss

2011-12-05T19:50:00.000-08:00

In the day and age of so many online classes... and the choices.. there is one that I will recommend for you to take...

Mission.. Accomplished

I promise... you will not be disappointed.......

I will be there... will you?

Catching Up...

2011-11-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

Wow.. so many things have been happening over the past few weeks.. so much to tell you about!

I think that the most exciting is the CRAFT Beach retreat. So much planning went into this. Every last detail was taken into consideration. From a treat bar, to special drinks and meals considering all needs and desires. The view was breath taking. The give aways never seemed to end. And the friends that were made I am sure will be life long.

The projects were so unique and based in emotion. The teachers were helpful and having a smaller retreat size allowed for everyone to have one on one time to express their questions and really learn the techniques. This intimacy allowed for those who attended to customize their projects and share with those around them. Amazing and Magical.

All the special details!!

Lifelong friends...

The gorgeous Annenberg beach house Santa Monica, CA

And... my dearest friends.... Paige and Rachel.... Paige and I were roommates right after college and she introduced me to Rachel. This was the first time the three of us had been together... well... in a REALLY long time!!!

Also... a.l.o.e.!!!!

The store is coming along!!!! I have started to paint my studio and have started to work on projects that I will be teaching. This holiday weekend I am going to be spending working in my home studio and getting things organized. I am feeling this itch just to create and paint and design!!!

be sure to follow the progress here:

a.l.o.e. of lewisville

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. Lots of wonderful things are coming.... and I am already grateful for how far I have come on my journey this year!!!

2 exciting chances to CREATE!

2011-10-28T03:09:00.000-07:00

Morning everyone!!!
I wanted to share with you 2 amazing ways you can add more creativity to your life!!!
One.. is CRAFT.. I have talked about it here before... but now you have the chance to "choose your way". Take a class, just the day.. or the way I prefer.. the WHOLE weekend!!!

the second way is something you can do in your jams!!! ONLINE with Stephanie Ackerman. Stephanie is known for her AMAZING doodles and her BIG heart. PLEASE, if you only take one online class this year.. it is this one. Full of techniques, lots of Stephanie love and you will come away with several amazing little projects.. all about HEart.

HEart with Stephanie Ackerman

And here is the details on CRAFT... this is going to be an AMAZING event... one of a kind... and I know that you will not want to miss one minute!!

CRAFT beach retreat

Have a wonderful day.. and a safe Halloween weekend!!!!

So what is a.l.o.e all about???

2011-10-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have had a dream this past year or two. To have a space where I could be creative and have my friends surrounding me. A place where Mom’s and the alike could all share ideas and have fun. A space where I could create and be inspired.

I walk around the arts district in my town and see the work and create spaces. And wonder.. what would it cost. Could I do it? I talked to another creative friend and asked if she would join me. Things were tight for her too and it was shelved for another day.

Then.. several months ago, she got serious… and had several friends who wanted in. And thought of me right away. We thought we pretty much had a space but then realized some zoning issues. In disappointment we continued the hunt. And sometimes, better things come along to those who wait. As of last night, the lease was signed at 6360 Shallowford Rd. Right in the middle of Lewisville.

I knew that I could not pass up this chance. I have no business plan. I have no specific idea of exactly what I am going to do. Here is what I do know… I have this creative yearn. I have this desire to share with others all I have learned. I have the eagerness to inspire others to allow themselves to share themselves through creativity.

Right now, I am helping with the logo. The general color and feel of our business. Running some of the financial ends, figuring out some logistical parts. Sweeping floors, and at some point, mowing the lawn! But my creative soul will be able to grow here.

What do I hope.. I hope that I can teach classes. I have so many friends now in the industry (hint hint) that have designed such great kits that I could teach in this space. I want to take the kits from scrapbooking from the inside out and guide people on a journey of exploration of feelings and emotions. I want to have girls night out where people can just come and explore. I want to teach skills I have learned. I just want to share… grow… learn… and along the way… love what I am doing. I want this to be a vehicle for my friends who are also creative to share.

At some point I could carry a small variety of unique products, but I do not (at least right now) plan to be a “art or scrapbook” store. I could sell kits, and basic supplies. But honestly, I think just having a girls creative night in sounds perfect!!!

What do you think?? What would be great in this space? (do you know an investor??? LOL)

Here is what we are using at the moment as our mission statement:

A community space that is beautiful and provides more than just a store. It is a place where you can go right around the corner and be able to relax with friends, host social events, and be around like-minded, inspiring woman. Living in this space is a woman who will make you look fabulous, a woman who can guide you on a creative journey, and finally where you can find some of the most beautifully refurbished finds by the most talented eye. Accompanied by some of the most creative treasures and treats... there is no place quite as special.

Come visit us and watch us grow:

www.aloeoflewisville.blogspot.com

Inspiration Unlimited Part Deux!

2011-09-26T17:09:00.000-07:00

I was finally able to get all of my goodies and projects unpacked last night. So many of my friends here asked “how was it?” “did you have fun?” For me, there are no words to describe when you get a room filled with women who want to express themselves. We all in one form or fashion, love to create. Some are detailed. Some just go with the flow. Some want to mix it up and try their hand at their own style while others follow the letter of the instructions. But… we all have the same need. The same desire. To be heard. To have what is inside expressed. The energy arriving at IU is something that you can not describe to people. And upon leaving, you feel like you are leaving family. And you all say “same time next year” if not sooner!

I was blessed this event. Last year, I went with my sister. We had an amazing time and met some really wonderful friends. One could not come because of a brand new baby. And my sister decided Italy was more important than IU. (insert big smile!) Several could not return due to work schedules or other pulls of family life. The best part, one of the friends that could not come is going to be my roommate at another event in November!!!

I had the luck to have the best roomie. She was funny and listened with her heart. We had a good time meeting each other. I did not know her, but from facebook, and was very lucky that we were able to relate so well. I also was blessed but sitting at my table with 3 of the nicest, kindest, down to earth women. We had a wonderful time chatting, sharing and just inspiring each other. Friends for all time now, I am sure. Some of the women I met inspire me. They are Mom’s who have been in the industry for years and opened their hearts to allow me in and share my story and listen to theirs. One of the woman, plans the event. She has the biggest heart of them all and is too funny. I am lucky to call her a friend. And, lucky that in January at CHA we will hit Disneyland together and have her show me the way around!

This is my family. My creative family. And, for me, just a part of that amazing family. My world has been gifted with women who express themselves. Who have hurt, who have smiled. Who have recovered and who are not shy about talking about falling. You can walk into a class and know that you are welcome. That is a place that can become magical. And for me, it has. I will return to Green Valley every September that IU takes place. An event that is not just a place for creating, but a place for friends. A place where I am embraced for exactly who I am.

Inspiration Unlimited

2011-09-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

Year 2 of Inspiration Unlimited has been and gone. For me, it was a big milestone. A year ago, I was determined that I needed to be prepared to lose it all, in order to gain it all back. I look back on this past year and see an incredibly strong woman. A woman who did not think that she could make it through on certain days. Days when tears would keep me to almost a stand still. A woman who felt so much pain and apprehension that she was sure that there would never be another side. Now, looking back, I can not believe how much I have grown. How much I have loved. How much people have LOVED me. How much I have learned.

I moved into my own place with the girls 50% of the time in February. I was incredibly blessed for a neighborhood of friends who dropped parts of their own lives to come and help me in this transition. The women came at night to pack and the men came during the day to move me. Not just move me, but to take apart every piece of furniture and reset it back up in its proper place so that I could feel just that much more at home in my new place. And several weeks later have the elders come back to check on me to be sure I did not need any help. A blessing truly to have such people in my life who cared enough to be sure I would be ok.

I am now feeling very much at home. A true little retreat. I have an art studio. My girls room is filled with love, pink, owls and of course lots of dolls!! My room has all the touches of peace. Reminders to breathe. To take the time for me. I have mums at the front door and it is truly my refuge. Even if it is just for now.
My creative journey has taken such twists and turns. I decided to join my friend Rachel on the adventure of Scrapbooking from the Inside Out as the Creative Director. It has taken me outside of my creative box and made me think in a "kit" kinda way. I have been able to come up with ideas and brainstorm and my creative side is just SINGING!!! I have made amazing friends and have only started to scratch the surface in this industry. I just know it!!!!
I have made plans to open a store. Yup... if you follow me on facebook you would have seen some clues to that. It is a group of "mompreneurs" and we have some exciting things coming to you!!!! I am thrilled to finally have the chance to TEACH!!! It is what I LOVE to do. To share my experiences. To share my techniques. To watch when someone learns a new way to find that creative side within themselves!!! I have realized that is what makes me tick. It not allows me to be creative, but allows for those around me to explore their OWN way of expressing themselves.
I am still very involved with the Children's Theatre of Winston Salem and Twin City Stage. I love working with these organizations. It will be my last year on the board, but I have made this last year my priority in helping them get to the next level. There are days, when I am not sure that they even needed me. They are an AMAZING group of people. So talented. I only consider myself lucky to be in their company. I have so many ideas to take them to the next level. Our education director once said to me that he wants to have an "award winning children's theatre" and I plan on getting him that.
My girls... oh my girls. This past year has also been quite a transition for them. Allie started 4th grade. Isabelle had a hard summer. They were remodeling her school and she was sad not to be in her "old school" and with her friends. It was a bit of a juggle.. but the girls (I think) are finally settled into their routine. They love "Mommy's house" and we all spend lots of snuggle time together. They drive me crazy sleeping in one room... but we are working out the kinks. They are growing far too fast and there are days that I wish it would just stand still. But, I know, that they are going to grow into amazing girls, and eventually woman.
My life is filled with love. My life is filled with friends. I am not saying there are not hard days. Days when I still cry. We all do. There are times that I slip back into that sadness but thankful I am able to rebound with the help of my friends and my faith. I BELIEVE. That is my word for this year. I believe my life is just starting. I believe I can do anything. I believe that my girls have the best Mom and that they can do anything. I believe in the love and hope of my friends. I believe....

More to come from Inspiration Unlimited soon!!! The classes were amazing and I can not wait to share the pics and more of my time there.

Create Your Future at CRAFT!

2011-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the CRAFT: Creating Reflective Art for Transformation Blog Hop!

Are you just beginning at this blog?

Make sure you begin at the SFTIO blog
so you don't miss all sneaky peeks

and your chance to win one of six kits!

If you get lost, a list of all the stops on the hop
is at the end of this post.

This event is brought to you by our team at Scrapbooking from the Inside Out, the premier source for inspiration to explore your inner world. Six talented and well-known instructors will be leading creative and meaningful workshops using our generous sponsors’ latest and greatest products at this intimate, boutique event right on the beach in beautiful Santa Monica, CA, November 11-13, 2011. You’ll spend a magical weekend focused on embracing who you truly are and gaining the skills, techniques and tools to use our craft to understand yourself more deeply on an ongoing basis.

Here is MY sneak peek:

CRAFT:

Three full days of crafting, creativity and camaraderie for only $450

(three consecutive monthly payments of $150 each.)

Spots are still available for this unique, pampering
and heart-expanding getaway.

Register now at the event blog HERE.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• 6 emotion-focused, technique-teaching personal workshops ~ All CRAFTers participate in every class. No need to choose ~ they're ALL yours in
CRAFT’s ocean-view, beautifully styled, creative space
• 4 special Art & Soul experiences
• Scrumptious breakfasts & lunches from Hollywood hot spot Urth Caffe
~ Friday, Saturday & Sunday
• Sweets, treats & beverages all day long
• Transportation from The Ambrose to and from the Annenberg Beach House for all workshops and activities via the CRAFTy Cab
• Oodles of workshop supplies

(you’ll just need to bring your basic tool kit – checklist to be provided later)
• A fabulous welcome gift, a CRAFTy tote filled with goodies,

valuable giveaways and fun prizes!

*Lots more details on girls’ night out dinners, airport transportation, location, hotel and event venue and more are available HERE.

For questions, comments and special requests, please email event coordinator Paige Ramos at craftbeachretreat@gmail.com

The Dates: November 11-13, 2011
The Times: Workshops from 9-5 each day, broken into two sessions.

SPONSORS:

WHY SHOULD YOU COME TO CRAFT?

What really sets CRAFT apart is unique mission of Scrapbooking from the Inside Out, kit club, inspiration source and online community. Thousands of participants all over the world have used SFTIO’s resources to explore their deepest emotions. They’ve lifted themselves and each other exploring Freedom, Gratitude, Anticipation and Wonder. They’ve faced their inner doubts and fears delving into Regret, Yearning, Loss and Vulnerability.

SFTIO’s trademarked and industry-exclusive approach to artistic motivation is the heart and soul of what makes them unique. Their monthly inspiration page with hand-selected music, stock photography, quotations and deep journaling prompts elevates scrapbooking to an expressive art form where members are guided to truly explore their inner worlds. Click here for links to past Inspiration Pages to see more.

SFTIO raises the bar even more by providing challenges using the prompts that add a design twist, teaching members to use ‘visual journaling’ – powerful symbolism – to combine right and left brain expression. The result? Meaningful, rich, pages and projects that reflect all of who you are, Inside and Out.

CRAFT workshops will incorporate a variety of tested, proven multimedia inspiration tools combined with the special talents and techniques of a stellar teaching staff, supported by Art Therapist Rita Coufal, PhD and Artist/Therapist Joy Mauldin.

Growth is a journey…not a destination. And it’s a most personal one…only you know what you need out of this experience. In the intimate, supportive setting SFTIO has created for you, you’ll have the opportunity to practice being more and more yourself. Their take on scrapbooking and creativity isn’t about a quick fix, or a set of ‘positive thinking’ reminders. It’s about a deeper approach, telling your truth – pretty or not, looking at both sides of the coin, and leaving the weekend together with the creative skills and tools to be more fully expressed in your life.

THE INSTRUCTORS:

While you’ll be learning amazing techniques, styles, tips and techniques in every workshop, these are not cookie-cutter sessions – you’ll be challenged to dig deep, learn about yourself and tailor your project to reflect who you are and who you want to be.

American Crafts Design Team and Product Designer
Hambly Screen Prints Design Team

Copy/Creative Editor for Northridge Publishing
American Crafts Blog Hostess/Design Team

Creating Keepsakes Dream Team 2011
Prima Design Team

Creating Keepsakes Dream Team 2011
Lily Bee Design Team
Jillibean Soup Design Team

Mixed Media Designer
Copic Certified Designer

Founder and President,
Scrapbooking from the Inside Out

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
REGISTER NOW.

And now for a giveaway! SFTIO is giving away FIVE kits to FIVE lucky readers…make sure to leave a comment (before Noon Pacific Time on 9-15) on each blog you visit in the hop to increase your chance of winning. Tell us please, in your comment, what emotion you’d love to explore in your scrapbooking! Winners will be chosen from all blog comment entries and will be announced on 9-16 on the SFTIO blog.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SFTIO: http://scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.blogspot.com
Stacy Cohen: http://stacycohen.blogspot.com/
Linda Barber: http://milesofpaper.blogspot.com/
Paige Ramos: http://thebumpyride.blogspot.com
Amy Tan: http://amytangerine.blogspot.com/
Paige Evans: http://chrisandpaige.blogspot.com/
Tammy Onderdonk Klass: http://createdreamlive.blogspot.com/
Seven Gypsies: http://www.sevengypsies.blogspot.com/
Ly T. Le: http://www.lytlescrapper.com/
Melissa Elsner: http://theprofoundbrunette.blogspot.com
Jillibean Soup: http://www.jillibeansoup.typepad.com/
Rita Barakat: http://letsembellish.blogspot.com/
Kai Baldwin: http://www.enjoytheridetoday.blogspot.com/
CRAFT Blog: http://craftbeachretreat.blogspot.com/

For your next stop,
make sure to check out Seven Gypsies’s blog.
Good luck and we hope to see you at CRAFT!

Where in the world?

2011-09-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have fallen off the blog wagon...

It has been a CRAZY summer....

Lots of swimming.. lots of giggles... lots of creating...

spent time with Rachel getting the next 6 mo ready...

and let me tell you... YOU WILL LOVE THEM!!!

I spent some time at CKC in Charlotte learning new techniques from the

amazing Holly using Faber Castel gelatos and more!

I also did a class on flowers and now need to incorporate them into everything I make!!!

I am still getting the art studio unpacked, but was able to work on this piece

for my wall and actually used my Silhouette for the first time and LOVED it...

how in the world did I ever live without this before??

And.. in between all that.. celebrated a 90 year old Grandma.. saw family that I have not seen in years. Took the girls to NYC where riding in a cab, a subway and a bus was the highlight of the trip. Saw some great inspiration and loved seeing my friends!

AND had First Day of School...

WHEW!

But....

Keep an eye out for some exciting news...

AND a GREAT blog hop tmrw!!!

Journey

2011-07-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Part of my journey in discovering more about my creative side has been to write... Here are just a few things that I have written over the past few year... I hope you enjoy them. I have found writing for me to quiet my soul and celebrate me.
Happy Monday!!!

While waiting for cable today.... :) 2/4/2011

Our lives are like quilts - bits and pieces, joy and sorrow, stitched with love. ~Author Unknown

A quilt… something that has been racing through my mind for several months now. Initially, the idea was born at Allie’s Old Tyme Day. My volunteer assignment that day was to work with several women who are so talented in the art of making quilts. One woman was blessed to have this as her career. She is known within the quilting circuit and travels around the country teaching and inspiring. These woman had on display some vintage quilts that were over 100 years old. They had been handed down family member to family member. They had stories about every piece, and every stitch. Each pattern signified a story. And my mind began spinning.

My life has been a quilt. Along every step from birth to now, covering me, hiding me, keeping me warm and shielding me from the storm. Each person I encounter has added a piece to that quilt. Some pieces are large. Some pieces are very small. But each person, whether the memories are happy, joyful, full of laughter, sad, scary or even mean, have added a piece. People you meet in the street who send you a smile, or the person who’s name you never knew, that you admired a piece of artwork with you in a museum. Kindness of the heart. Humanity. At its finest.

Some are full of color.

My children are the brightest. Isabelle and Allie’s radiate in colors of the rainbow. My Dad’s is a piece full of photographs. Blazing with a yellow light that radiates security and peace. Some in my life are the stitches that hold the quilt together. Life long friends, the ones you can count on no matter what. The ones who have been there through the bad, the good, and all of the in between. Many pieces are tattered. Even worn. These are the friendships that have taken a toll over time. Those that have been hurt, but with patience, grace and hope, they have been restored. They have stitches of apologies and knots of promises to keep talking. Friends that are “new again” have found their pieces and add new colors, new patterns. One of my favorite additions to this shield of hope and love is my new friends. Their squares forming with every meet. A laugh adding a shimmer, a tear adding a stitch of strength, and shared joy is the harmony that makes these pieces gleam with personality.

People who have not been kind to me in my life have pieces that are almost grey and threaded. There as a reminder but not something that will keep me warm. Part of my life, but these squares add no strength to the quilt. They must not be forgotten, as there is a lesson. In every piece, there is a lesson. Humanity, sometimes, at its worst.

Some of the squares are patterned, textured, or even designed. Reflective of each of the personalities as I remember them in my life. A friend from high school may have a musical instrument on his, a best friend from college is adorned with buttons. Looking at this quilt is like seeing a picture of my life. Exactly how I would want to remember everything as a snapshot.

There are days when I wrap myself in this. Seeking the strength. Days as a child, it was the fort I hid under. Or in college, the blanket that keep me in bed on Sundays until noon. On the days of my children’s birth I wrap it around my shoulders eager to add memories. On this journey.. I wear it as a cape. Showing my colors. Proud, but shielded.

I will not deny. There have been days over the past year and half that I have questioned why pieces were even there. But, each piece has a value. A meaning. There have been days where I have wanted to take it as a child takes their “woobie” and just cling to it. Soaking up tears, and laying under the covers with it. Hoping to understand. Aching for some of the good memories to flood back and take away some of the hurt. The days of security to take away the days of doubt.

A covering. A shield. All me. Filled with memories, made with love. Held together with the hope of tomorrow and the gratefulness for those in my life today.

The sewing machine joins what the scissors have cut asunder, plus whatever else comes in its path. ~Mason Cooley

Here are 2 short poems... I do not consider myself a poet... it is more like seeing my emotions fall onto the paper... I do not live by a meter or a stance... it is truly.. just how I feel at the time.

Honesty is one of the characters
That is sought for the center
but can destroy cores

It can bring joy
and tears can flow endlessly
hearts can sing
and souls can see possibilities
never believed in before

Time and patience
are the foundations
If allowed to blossom
and grow
intricately weaving through the
trellises of a heart

But this honesty can also
bring optical to the realm of
dreams and hope
not always bestowing
what you desired to be
in the looking glass

hold on tight
have confidence in your heart
never falter believing
in a dream
in a truth
or another

Tammy Onderdonk Klass 11/10/10

This was written really at a hard time for me...

Growth

Aug. 14, 2010

Seeking the strength

Holding on for the light

The path holds curves never imagined

awaken in me the memory

of not so long ago

Seeking the strength

To not crumble

Diffidence shrouds

radiance from within

Holding On

Letting Go

Beset by fears

captivated as the light emerges

CRAFT Beach Retreat!

2011-06-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

ALL THE DETAILS

about

CRAFT Right Here

ALL ABOUT CRAFT:

CREATING REFLECTIVE ART FOR TRANSFORMATION

The Dates: November 11-13, 2011

The Times: Workshops from 9-5 each day, broken into two sessions.

Plus four bonus ‘art and soul experiences’ will be right before and after classes, and a few in the evening at the hotel. Some secret…but including a henna painting workshop, sand art/message in a bottle and more...

THE PROJECTS:

1. A nametag/corsage/home decor interactive project that will include canvas, handmade paper flowers (with different meanings), ribbon and a ton of paint and mist applications and techniques; the interactive part is symbol and word charms that everyone will have to share with each other over the weekend.

2. A personalized, decorated journal to use to record your feelings about the different roles you play in life.

3. A canvas wall decor project incorporating layering, layering and more layering…all about what matters most.

4, 5 and 6: Three intricate multi-page scrapbook page projects, one, a three page series on your feelings before during and after a life experience; the second on the influence of the most important people in your life and what you learned from them, and the third on an emotion you'll choose in advance using multimedia content - music, quotes and stock photos.

In each class, we'll be combining our teachers' brilliant individual styles and techniques along with emotional exploration and discussion before and after the workshop.

We are developing the samples…we are waiting for the new releases from the Summer CHA show in Chicago so all the supplies are brand-spankin’new. We’ll have the sneaks out in August!

WHAT TO BRING:

We'll have a detailed supply list in August, but it will basically consist of your standard tool kit...scissors, a trimmer, pens, some ink pads, a corner rounder...and we'll also be letting you know about types and sizes of photos to bring that will be perfect for each project.

But everything you’ll need to actually work with will be provided – tons of patterned paper, cardstock, canvas, paints, mists, and MUCH more…you’ll get your own kit of supplies for each workshop, plus we’ll have a tool area for everyone to share.

We’ll also have a small ‘store’ set up by our friends at LA’s only LSS, Sonja’s Scrapbook Spot, to provide any of the basics you might forget or run out of...

We'll be sending out a questionnaire soon with info we'll gather from all our CRAFTers about what emotions are most important to them. The entire event will be personalized and customized to YOU.

WHY SHOULD I COME TO CRAFT?

What really sets CRAFT apart is the work we’ve done these last three years at Scrapbooking from the Inside Out, our kit club, inspiration source and online community.

We’ve interacted with thousands of participants all over the world to explore 36 emotions to date as we near our third anniversary. We’ve lifted ourselves and each other exploring Freedom, Gratitude, Anticipation and Wonder. We’ve faced our inner doubts and fears delving into Regret, Yearning, Loss and Vulnerability.

SFTIO’s trademarked and industry-exclusive approach to artistic motivation is the heart and soul of what makes us unique. Our monthly inspiration page with hand-selected music, stock photography, quotations and deep journaling prompts elevates scrapbooking to an expressive art form where members are guided to truly explore their inner worlds. Click here for links to our past Inspiration Pages to see!

We raise the bar even more by providing challenges using the prompts that add a design twist, teaching and learning with our members to use ‘visual journaling’ – powerful symbolism – to combine right and left brain expression. The result? Meaningful, rich, pages and projects that reflect all of who you are, Inside and Out.

Each of our workshops at CRAFT will incorporate a variety of our tested, proven multimedia inspiration tools combined with the special talents and techniques of our stellar teaching staff. We’ll begin and end each workshop with discussion and sharing, supported by our resident Art Therapist Rita Coufal, PhD.

Growth is a journey…not a destination. And it’s a most personal one…only you know what you need out of this experience. In the intimate, supportive setting we’ve created for you, you’ll have the opportunity to practice being more and more yourself. Our take on scrapbooking and creativity isn’t about a quick fix, or a set of ‘positive thinking’ reminders. It’s about a deeper approach, telling your truth – pretty or not, looking at both sides of the coin, and leaving our weekend together with the creative skills and tools to be more fully expressed in your life.

THE INSTRUCTORS:

While you’ll be learning amazing techniques, styles, tips and techniques in every workshop, these are not cookie-cutter sessions – you’ll be challenged to dig deep, learn about yourself and

tailor your project to reflect who you are and who you want to be.

In alphabetical order…

Creating Keepsakes Dream Team 2011

Lily Bee Design Team

Jillibean Soup Design Team

Creating Keepsakes Dream Team 2011

Prima Design Team

Copy/Creative Editor for Northridge Publishing

American Crafts Blog Hostess/Design Team

Mixed Media Designer

Copic Certified Designer

American Crafts Design Team and Product Designer

Hambly Screen Prints Design Team

WHERE WILL I BE?

The location for our premiere CRAFT event is really special. As a ten year resident of Santa Monica, I am exceptionally proud of my city. It has everything you could want in a destination...sun, sand and sea. It's got free thinkers, art and culture, great shopping, fantastic food, from the best of the food truck craze to comfy neighborhood haunts to the finest of fine dining. It's home to some of the friendliest people you'll find in the 'big' city. And it's a walking city - there are many weekend days that I never get in the car.

THE VENUE

Our classes will be held at the beautiful and brand new Annenberg Beach House, right on the sand off Pacific Coast Highway (also known as HWY 1). The space we'll be in is an intimate room, the Terrace Lounge, with floor to ceiling windows...every seat in our venue has a view of the ocean. Right outside the door is a lovely seating area with a fountain where we'll be enjoying our lunch breaks.

The building is home to a rotating multimedia art collection that evokes the ocean and features local artists. Soaring ceilings, a tool area, snack corner and a fireplace complete the picture...a perfect location for a crisp November day! With an average high of 70 and a low of 54, wherever you're from, the weather will delight you! And our afternoon classes will end just in time for a bonus activity and watching the sunset over the Pacific. Heaven!

HOTEL

If you'll be joining us from out of town, we've got another treat in store for you...our official hotel, The Ambrose. Imagine the perfect mix of craftsman lines and zen energy...complete with a small garden and pond, a living room, and rooms designed with feng shui principles in mind. We've negotiated a special CRAFT room rate of $198 per night plus tax, so if you room with a friend (or we help you find a roomie) the cost is just $99 per night, which includes parking (if that applies to you), free wifi, and a daily organic continental breakfast from our event caterer, Urth Caffe. Transportation from the hotel to the Beach house is included in your registration, and airport transfers will be available for a nominal fee.

Once at the hotel, you can utilize their cute london-style shuttle service to get you to shopping or anywhere else local you'd like to see!

OUR INCREDIBLE SPONSORS:

You’ll be working with the best materials in the Scrapbooking and Crafting world…

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

www.craftbeachretreat.blogspot.com

WE CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME YOU TO OUR FAMILY OF CRAFTers!

Getting There!!

2011-06-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

Well... I have been working little by little by little and I am officially "boxless" in my apartment. I finally have things hanging on the wall and curtains up in the kitchen, the girls room and my room. AND, my office/art studio is coming together!!! I only need about one more FULL day to get it all organized. I think that a purge and reorganize is in order, but for now.. so that I can start to BE creative again, I will just put the most used products in some bins on my shelves and leave the reorganizing and purge for a rainy day. (Lets not talk about my garage! I am looking forward to a fall children's consignment sale where THEY tag and hang for you!!)

Here are some pics.. and when it is ALL done I will post some more...

Looking in.. to the left.. computer area (with Brownie vest needing to have items transferred to the Junior vest!) and to the right... The art area. (with the cats seal of approval!)

this is the bookcase and all of the boxes that still need to be organized. The next picture is my closet. It is very organized, though it looks overwhelming!!

These are pictures of my desk close up. I can not wait to start to be creative! Projects I have been working on in classes I have taken recently are on the desktop.

If you are on my facebook page, you will know that last week was recital week. 4 days straight between dress rehearsals and then the actual show. I am SO proud of both my girls. For Isabelle, this was her first year, and she did GREAT. Her song was It is Pink! She was adorable and loved the stage. For Allie this was her 6th recital. She had 4 "numbers". 2 ballet (somewhere over the rainbow, colors of the wind), one jazz (911.party on the dance floor) and one tap (zebra dance)

She amazes me. She remembers it all... and looked gorgeous. My baby.. is turning into an amazing girl.

More Soon!!!

CRAFT Beach Retreat

2011-06-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

Hi all!!
I am so excited about this event!!! It is a not to be missed.... Details are coming out everyday... but you know where I will be in November!!!

http://craftbeachretreat.blogspot.com/2011/06/five-and-counting.html

Exciting News

2011-05-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!

I have such exciting news!!! I have a new endeavor that I have been working on for just a little while and know that it will yield some really amazing partnerships with an incredible design team and one FABULOUS owner.

Rachel and I have been friends for many years (we now say almost 20) and knew that once her business got to a place... we hoped to find a way to work together.... and realize that now is the time!!

Please stop by www.scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.com and check out what these amazing kits are all about. You will love it! AND... keep your eyes open for lots of new things coming too!!! We would love to hear any ideas... comments... good jokes... and pictures of all the lovelies you are creating!!!

alliebellesmom@gmail.com

Looking forward to an AMAZING future...... THANK YOU RACHEL!!!!!

Optimism

2011-05-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

Check out the June kit from Scrapbooking from the Inside Out!

OPTIMISM!

It is gorgeous with lots of fun embellishments.. I can not wait for you to play and create!!!

Stop by and see all the amazing kits... inspiration and creations!

www.scrapbookingfromtheinsideout.com

so where in the world have I been?

2011-05-24T05:55:00.000-07:00

Well... it sure has been a busy few months...

I promise to be better about keeping up... but I thought I would give a picture recap.... they say... a picture is worth a thousand words! **warning... NOT in calendar order.. LOL**

I hosted my first Thirty-one table at a childrens consignment sale... and no sale is complete unless you have a Hula Hoopin Cow. Thanks Monica at Monkey Hooper.

Birthday Girl..........

Allie had a SPA birthday Party. I still can not believe that she is 9. The years have flown by. She is an amazing daughter. ... an incredible artist... kindest heart... a great big sister (when she wants to be!)... playful and not too interested in being too big too fast. Isabelle enjoyed the day too (actually I am not sure who enjoyed it more!)

Easter and Passover came and the girls enjoyed many Easter Eggs hunts with their friends and neighbors. A co-worker had an AMAZING Easter Egg hunt at his home with about 70 children and their parents. 5 and younger were in the front and up from there was in the back. They had spectacular food. (our favorite was the bread cut out to chick, bunnies and butterflies. Funny how much more you eat of it!) They have a zipline setup in the back between trees and to watch all of the kids and the excitement was just picture perfect (though.. I only have video!)

AND to end Easter Day.. we got to take our first swim of the season!!!

We celebrated the marriage of Kate and William at work in style....

Added a new family member who is named LoLo (her adoptive name was Lolita!)

And the girls always keep busy painting, beading, blinging, sticking and just about anything I can put on the table for them...

So.. what have I been doing creative....????

The HbdH of Winston Salem had its 2nd meeting. I love the concept of Community Art. Creative at heart individuals gathering together to discuss design, art, concerns, how to make it better.. and honestly.. just have some plain old F..U..N!!

This "meeting" of the Honey Badgers Design Hive was focused around Exquisite Corpse. If you have never heard of this... see here or here

We spent the night collaborative collaging and also collaborative story writing. I love love love this idea... and plan to do it more.... in so many ways!!

Many EXCITING things are happening in the art community where I live. Over time... I will post more about it.. but I am honored to live in a community that so much believes in the arts and how they play an integral role in the lives of the people that live there.

I attended Donna Downey's Inspired for Day Classes...

This is the class I took with Stephanie Ackerman. She is wonderful. They are not complete yet, but will be soon! I love her "free" style to just be.. have fun.. get messy... and enjoy. And.. I love Stephanie. She is kind, creative, open hearted and is inspirational. Find her here

I had a great time working with Christy Thomlinson on this leather cuff.... (kind of addicted now!)

and was able to take a mixed media canvas class with her... I LOVE the way this came out.

I also took a family tray class with the amazing Ly. t. Le. Find her motivational style here

AND I am SOOOO excited because I only have 6 boxes left to unpack and then dress the walls in my art studio.....

I have been disappointed on the time it has taken me to get this pulled together.... BUT.. I must be kind to myself and realize that I have so many other things going on to... but watch out... because here I come! :)

And.. I am in CA right now.... spending time with my life long friend Rachel. We attended an event called Color Connection with Prima, Tattered Angels and Pink Paislee. What a great day.

It was held at the amazing venue of the Mission Inn in Riverside, California. This is a place that is on my must return to and stay so I can explore. Just gorgeous....

This is the project from the Tattered Angels Class.

This is a darling album from Prima.

And 2 great layouts from Pink Paislee

The collaboration between these businesses is unique. And perfect. They all create some of their product lines with the others in mind. A great way to market. Bravo!

But... I am not sure if this was not the best part.....

A cupcake from Casey's Cupcakes...

(who won the 2011 cupcake wars.. and I know why!!!)

Off to pack... (or go back to sleep.. my body is still on NC time!) more soon I promise!

I do have a really exciting announcement to make!!!

Tell a New Story.. Soul Restoration...

2011-03-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

It has been weeks since I first started to listen to Melody's voice... as she walked through the house.. and described to us... your soul house... how it can be everything you dream of.. until one day you wake up and you just don't even know where you live anymore. I listened to her words, and watched her face... and you have to look in her eyes. She has been there. This is not a woman who pretends to be "a guru", or a "know it all". This is a woman. Someone.. just like us. Who hurts, who laughs, who smiles.

My journey with Melody is described in the beginning of this blog..

Hello!

I was thrilled.. elated... beyond words to know that I could take this class with Melody. Seeing her describe in person her timeline.. and then to realize it was a class for us, was a thrill. And then, to have not only her talks with "just you" every week, but to have the classrooms of woman there to support you.

I have had friends tell me, they could not do this.. they are not an artist.. and I try to explain... this class is not about the art.. it is about the heart. Your heart. Finding that time to do this for yourself. I will be honest. I have not completed all the projects. But, I have downloaded and printed all my material and have watched all the videos. I personally had a large life change right in the middle of it all... and have had to pack and unpack and find... all of my supplies. I was disappointed. I allowed my life at that moment to start to move back into MY soul house... Then Melody and Kathy would have an inspirational message.. or video. I listened. I closed my doors.. and believed I was ready. It was hard. There were days that I thought I could not watch another video through the streams of tears.

“Perhaps our eyes need to be washed by our tears once in a while, so that we can see life with a clearer view again.”

We all have our own burdens to carry. Our own pains and no one can judge if one is greater than another. I remember seeing Andy Dooley in a seminar and he said "change your story". It is so easy to introduce yourself with all the labels you believe you are... or what you think others think of you. It is easy to introduce yourself based on your history, and bad luck. But I now refuse. That and those things are not me. Those are the things that I allowed to be moved into my house.

I had a friends ask me.. how are you so strong?

Because, I believe that I am strong. That I am worth love. Brave Girls has allowed me to have a connection with my friends that I did not have before. I even made a new friend who I realized was taking the course after a post she had made on a mutual friends facebook wall. We are strong for each other. Empowerment. It is a strong force. You allow yourself to believe. And you can have all your dreams come true. And when those hard times come around again, because they will, you will have the strength to see them coming. Put your storm windows in... batten down the hatches and hold on.

The process works... Pouring your heart and soul into journals. Even if all you do is listen to what Melody has to share. Even if you just take what she has provided and stick them down. Allow yourself. Believe in the process. Find a friend... pick up your child's paintbrush and just see what it feels like to put color to paper. I am blessed. I have a degree in fashion design and find myself to truly be artistic. It is in my senses. Everything I see to me is a color or inspiration. But I struggled. And then, I just let down the expectations. And had fun.......

Sewing itch....

2011-03-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

I have been bit... but by my sewing bug again.... it seems that once I get my "crafting" on.. I just want to get it all back in gear at one time!!!
Finding good fabric here has been a trick... but recently I came across Karen Grey.. and I just LOVE her shop....

http://www.karengraydesign.com/

Not only is her shop a visual wonderland.. but she is wonderful... so friendly.. her classes are so interesting and different. There are little birds from the rafters.. and every where you look there is a focal point for inspiration. I am taking a quilt class there soon.. so watch for pics!

While at Karen's, there was a little bird quilt which caught my eye. It lead me to search out this very interesting pattern. I have been in love with birds and owls lately. I imagined taking those birds and appliquéing them to a bag, or even to an art journal. This wonderful quilt in her shop was designed from a company called Two Peas in a Pod. I searched them on the internet and quickly found Trish. After some crazy back and forth emails.. we both realized that the quilt I was looking for was from another company called Two Peas in a Pod.. but I was thrilled to have found her! Because look at these!!!

can you stand it?? Can you say toooooo cute? I can not wait to make these.. and have my own Hoot-n-Nanny's!!!

Here is the best part though... TODAY is Trish's birthday.. and she has a great giveaway on her blog... so stop by.. wish her a Happy Birthday... see all of her other lovelies... and enter to win a great birthday present...

http://twopeasinapoddesigns.com/2011/03/24/happy-birthday-to-me-my-birthday-gift-to-you/

Some Old Layouts...

2011-03-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

While unpacking and getting my new studio setup (taking me a long time to get that set up!) I found some of these old layouts... thought it would be fun to post them... as a place of "start"..... so that in the future there is a place to see where I have come from...

When taking classes at CKC or CKU I never completely follow the directions... but I will not call these layouts mine either.... just used for inspiration!

These two layouts were done either at a CKC or CKU.... I do not remember the paper company... year is about 2002 or so. Words printed on transparency.

The green squares are actually able to be lifted up and there are 4 pages that can be used for pictures or journaling.

Rusty Pickle! :)

There two layouts were done in a Rusty Pickle Class. CKC I think. I love Rusty Pickle and always took their classes when I could. Again, these were about 2002 - 2003. Paper Distressing.. folders for journaling... fabric for ribbons... and of course the burlap as a picture background.

This was my first (and about my last) piece of "digital" scrapbooking. I used a very specific paper assortment provided by Epson and entered a contest which I won. This is dated 2004. The picture is Allie's first Easter 2003. I decided that as photoshop is part of my everyday work... digital scrapbooking is just not as interesting to me as actually getting my hands dirty! I like the making, sticking, blinging. I think moving forward I may see how I can integrate the 2 as there is now such wonderful digital assets available.

This was a layout that I LOVED. I completed for a CKC entry and to date is still one of my favorites. The colors, the simplicity. I used clear acrylic letters for the "ballerina".

The "tutu' is made from one of Heidi Swapp's flowers folded in 1/2 and then I used stickles. I cut out the bodice from paper. I think the detail that is the best that is so hard to see is along the edges of the paper is dots from the roller that you would use in sewing when you were transferring pattern pieces onto fabric (what is that called???)

This is one of my other favorite layouts... We took Allie to Disneyland for her 5th birthday.. April 20th, 2006. She LOVED the pink Mickey Princess ears.. and she made everyone try them on. I loved all the circles I used.. and the fun fonts...

There next few layouts are just some quick layouts that I had made doing my first 6X6 pages. Handcut letters from stickers.. lots of pen and ink stitching... the tic tac toe is painted on... This is really when I was first starting out.. and just trying to incorporate my handwriting and other mediums besides just paper.

These are some Chatterbox Papers and the clear letter stickers that matched the papers. I LOVE chatterbox paper and still have LOTS and LOTS to use!!!

This last picture is of the painting I completed this last Friday with my friend AnneMarie at the Taste of Art classes at the Sawtooth Center. Not too bad for a 2 hour class that was 45 minutes of talking and only red, blue, yellow, black and white paint. :) (and not to mention the first time I have exclusively used acrylics with no other medium in a long time)

Hope you enjoyed the ride back in time with me..........

Renovation!

2011-02-28T03:54:00.000-08:00

My move is complete... I am in my new home... getting settled. I have the kitchen organized... the girls room setup...I think that my closet may take a bit still... but the one thing I am so excited about is that I have my own art studio!!! I can sew... paint ... create ... inspire ... dream ... LIVE! I love it because I have a couch to sit and read... I have an outdoor patio right off of it.. for the days of sunshine... and when I just need some quiet and fresh air.

I thought I would take a picture of it before... so that I could really see the journey... and cherish the results.

The one thing you can not see is a BIG closet.. I plan to use that to store bins, and really use that as a depot for supplies so that I can try and keep my area as neat and clutter free as possible. My dream, when I own my own home again one day, is to have an area with built ins, but in a rental... I am going to make this the best creative space I can!

Happy Monday!

One word, A New Friend, and my Soul so Far!

2011-01-29T05:13:00.000-08:00

I had to post a picture of my "word" that I found at Target (you just HAVE to love that store!!)

I love this and can not wait to find the perfect place for it in my new home.

I love the details in the letters and know that it will so helpful in my Ali Edwards class.

Today, I made a new friend. And I am so excited! The universe works in ways that we only can begin to understand. A mutual friend thought that we would get along, so he "set us up" as facebook friends. We had a wonderful lunch only to find that we have so many similarities in life. As she said "spooky" :)

She also scrapbooks and I am so excited to have someone else to be creative with now!

Anne Marie... glad you are part of my life.. and look forward to lots of laughs, memories and lunches!

Finally.. my soul restoration is moving along.. not as quickly as I would like. Honestly, I am really feeling a bit behind, but I have truly spent the time embracing the videos and doing the work. To me, it was so important to not only do the projects, but to spend the time. Realizing where I am strong, and where I am weak.

The first project is a mini book with your truth teller, your soul house and other bits of information. I very much love flowers so knew that they had to be incorporated some how. I also knew I had to put a butterfly. My symbol of renewal. rebirth. Here it is planned out...

and here it is post some color... I used watercolors.. and LOTS of water :) excited to finish this today!

Getting ready for a busy day... Allie's bowling... and I need to get a certain laundry monster under control and start some packing... one week from today a new chapter starts...

Happy Saturday!

Being Brave

2011-01-22T11:58:00.000-08:00

Today begins my Soul Restoration journey...
Thank you Melody and all my brave girl sisters!!!

I am nervous... and excited... and scared...
And I am a week behind!!!!

I have already watched parts of the videos and they have brought me to my knees. Lots of soul searching.. and creating.... yes.. excited!!

Keep an eye out here for what is to come.....

Finding my creative side

2011-01-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

One of the things I promised to myself was to find my re-discover my creative side.. I thought that I could do this through just "doing".. but also.. through taking some classes.. so what am I doing??

1. Suzi Blu's Petite Dolls. I am so excited to start painting again. And not have it be life drawing.. or still lifes.. or color wheels... (all of those projects from college!!)

2. One Little Word This is with Ali Edwards. Taken through Big Picture Scrapbooking. I love Ali.. but I especially love this "one word"... check out the list of "one words"
Reference of one words - amazing!

3. Last but not least... Soul Restoration.. I was INCREDIBLY blessed... by a dear friend.... who wanted to remain anonymous... I was granted this amazing gift to take this class. She knew how much I had been struggling as of late... and how much I admired not only her, but Melody.. and the whole Brave Girls Camps and philosophy. I could not believe that someone thought enough of me (and she barely knows me) to gift me this incredible restoration of my self!
I am so excited.
Brave Girls Soul Restoration

The fun part is.. I have a girl friend in town who will be taking this also.. so we plan to get together to work on our projects and I also plan to skype with a friend in CA as she and her friends work on theirs!!

I have a feeling this is just a scratch on the surface for me this year! I am looking forward to it!

One Word

2010-12-30T18:49:00.000-08:00

Ali Edwards has been posting an idea of one word for the year for several years now... One Word

I have never considered this before.. but this year.. felt compelled.. honestly... driven to a word.

BELIEVE

I have a wonderful saying right above my bed... Dream... Hope... Believe.

Thanks Dogwood Lettering!!

This past year has found me questioning.. and searching... and every time.. the same word would pop into my mind. Believe. Know that you are on the right path.

Ali is offering a wonderful class through Big Picture Scrapbooking for the year. An exploration through the year of how this word is manifesting in your life. I am in! One Little Word I can not wait to explore monthly how I am believing... and hoping.. and dreaming!

I am also incredibly lucky to be part of Brave Girls Soul Restoration starting in just 12 days! I was also incredibly blessed that this class was gifted to me anonymously. I have no idea who to thank. So.. to that incredible person who BELIEVED in me... THANK YOU!!!

Brave Girls Soul Restoration

Happy New Year! I hope that 2011 is everything that I know it can be! Bring it! :)

I will be running (well walking!) the lights at Tanglewood Park with some of my nearest and dearest friends in the neighborhood. I am so excited and blessed that these incredible woman are in my life.

My first try!!

2010-12-29T22:24:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to work on a mixed media piece. I love Kellie Rae Roberts and even Christie Thomlinson has this wonderful .pgf up on her blog. scarlet lime post here!
There is so much inspiration out there.. I could go on and on...

I needed a gift for a friend... someone who has been on a journey.. and is finding their perfect place in life. I wanted something that would remind them about patience. trust. hope and belief. and forgiveness.

Here it is!

It is a smaller canvas. And it was SO hard to get a good picture. I started by collaging some designer papers from stamping up on the base. and some sheets from a book also. I then used acrylics and washed over it with blues and creams.. wiping and adding silver also.

I then painted the tree (I tried to add some texture to the base of the tree using molding paste.. but did not love the effect) and also some green buds. Highlighted in a darker brown and then washed over that again... sanded a bit.. washed it a bit more.. sand.. wash... you get it :)

I used a stencil in the corner and actually used a stamp pad ink (need to get some tattered angels glimmer mist in brown!) and let it dry.

Then I worked on my angel. She is a collage of the same papers as the base. I painted her face and hair. I struggled with paint face or not to paint a face. I also tried oil crayons and they did not perform as I would have liked. I outlined in black pen.. and added some small details.

I then stamped with Staz-on the small flourish on the tree and also the butterfly on her dress.

I could not decide what to add the love is patient with.. thickers? hand written? I then thought that the hand punched words gave it interest.

Last, I added the words. hope. trust and forgive at the base. journey in the trunk.. and the words in the tree are what you get. I also added in her dress love with courage. The last addition was the heart. I added with glossy accents so that it popped off just a bit.

What would I change.. Mod Podge MATTE!! no glossy.. :) (though it did make changing mistakes easier).. not so much wash... and just practice.. practice.. practice. Also going to try fluid acrylics as I think I will be happier with the pigmentation and the ease of use.

The gift was loved... and appreciated. I LOVED creating it. Especially for the person who received it. Already have an idea for the next one :)

Some detail pics...

fearless, happiness, celebrate, gratitude, courage, brave, peace, believe, magic, miracle
grateful, dream, passion, acceptance, strength

What inspires me?

2010-11-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the things that have caught my eye lately... can you tell I am liking owls???
Enjoy!!

Michelle my Belle

Christy Thomlinson

These past 4 are Linda Solovic

These paintings are by Melissa Moss

As seen in Karen Gray's studio/store

Where have I been???

2010-11-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

I made a promise to myself to blog more... but the past few weeks have found me doing almost everything at a crazy pace I just have not had a chance.... I am so glad that I take pictures.. so I can remember what I have been doing with my time :)

So.. where have I been??

Well.. this little bug.. had her 3rd birthday.. Oct. 30th. A weekend filled with Halloween magic and Strawberry Shortcake fun!

Then... we had Old Tyme Day at Allie's School

Followed by pictures by the amazing Alyson Shulz!! These were taken at Old Salem...

A hike to Hanging Rock was in store too. Allie and Isabelle both loved climbing through the waterfalls and on the rocks... all was great.. until a year precocious 3 year old determined she did not want to walk anymore..... note to self... always have nap BEFORE we go!

Last.. but not least... special things about both my girls... Isabelle.. her newest thing is when she sees a tree she runs over to it and says take a picture of me... Here are 2 of the many many that have been taken over the past few weeks! LOL (and note the My Minds Eye flower in her hair!)

And.. Allie... who has become quite the little artist..... took first place in the Dixie Classic Fair for her artwork.... and here she is featured on the back of her school newsletter.. GO ALLIE!!

So.. now you know where I have been!!! I have been keeping up with all my inspiration hunting and have lots of files... now.. just to get all of my creative juices into my hands and start creating! I did make one beautiful piece at my friend Wendy's. I can not wait to put this up!

Happy Creating!!

Some of my favorite stops

2010-10-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite stops everyday! I usually try to spend at least 15 minutes a day just surfing for ideas and have big files saved up by theme/idea. So when my creative space gets organized again (just moved it again to a new space!) I try and use these inspirations to get the creative juices flowing!

http://www.homegrownhospitality.typepad.com/
LOVE Stephanie. She is the kindest person. AMAZING doodler. Creative... inspirational. This is for sure a stop I make everyday!

http://thepaperlife.typepad.com/the-paperlife/
Amy ..... One wonderful woman!!!

http://www.teresacollins.typepad.com/
Mistress of Bling.. LOVE love Teresa!

http://stacyjulian.com/blog/
The master of simplicity.. color and a MUST see if you EVER get the chance... SO inspirational.

http://jannawilson.typepad.com/
LOVE This ARKANSAS girl!

http://www.heidiswapp.typepad.com/
so much fun.. fun.. fun

http://aliedwards.com/blog
no one more talented... an amazing mother... and a true artist...

http://kellyraeroberts.blogspot.com/
My FAVORITE mixed media artist...

http://www.melodyross.typepad.com/
the BRAVEST girl I know

http://bravegirlsclub.com/blog/
THIS IS a site I go to EVERY day!

http://michellehill.typepad.com/
LOVE this polkadotwhimsy girl....

These are just a taste of my favorite few... I will add these to the side and keep adding them as I find them.... but enjoy for today.. be inspired... and CREATE!!

Hello!!

2010-09-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

Optimistic Loving Creative Soul
Living Courageously

Welcome to my blog! After such an amazing weekend at Inspiration Unlimited I thought that it was about time to put together my own blog about my creative side! My first post will be about my adventures here at the amazing Green Valley Ranch…

Why this blog?

Well… I lead a crazy life! I love to have my friends and family involved in my life and there are many who live far. I wish that there was a way we could all just teleport to one another… it would make thing so much easier.

I wanted a place that I could share things that inspire me. Projects I am working on. New magical finds… new wonderful places.

I wanted somewhere I can share all the blogs I read… everyone always asks.

But.. most of all….this is part of my journey. Part of this creative part of myself I am re-appreciating.

I feel that I can use this place to share, teach, inspire and the best part of all…. GROW!

Inspiration Unlimited? What is that? And WHY?

Well.. It all starts with a doodle. Stephanie Ackerman is someone who’s blog I read. I can not remember how I stumbled upon her blog. It has been several years now. I love her style of doodling. (which I am now taking a class in!) and when the chance came last year to meet her and take a class with her at Donna Downey’s Inspired event in my backyard I was not going to refuse. I made this amazing little album with my favorite detail… Roses! I was reading her blog and found out that she was going to an event with Teresa Collins. I have always enjoyed Teresa’s style. But, for me, what sent the deal over the edge was a phenomenal woman. Melody Ross. She was to be the keynote speaker. I knew no matter what, I had to go. I emailed Ginger Nelson, the coordinator, on May 16^th but soon found out that they were completely sold out. I was so disappointed. BUT, on May 23^rd she emailed back that 2 sisters had canceled and would we like the spaces. My sister Michelle was going to give this amazing gift to me for my 40^th birthday. It was something I could not imagine… Stephanie, Teresa and Melody! AND Vegas! Let the fun begin…

I soon realized that I loved the style of so many of the teachers. I had been reading Elizabeth's blog and following the adventures of SPARK and House of 3. But, I never realized how this event would re-ignite in me the desire to do this… REALLY do this… to create… to dream… to LIVE a creative life. I used to worry when I would come home from events I would not finish projects. Not with these! I can’t wait! I can not wait to take things I have learned and use them again and again!

But, for me, the best part came in 2 parts. New friends. I met some of the most amazingly, creative, wonderful, happy, loving, kind, warm and just FAB woman. In particular, there is a shout out to Amy, Janna and Michelle. Woman… who live this creative life everyday… and mother children… and love. Love what they do. You can see it when they talk… I am beyond blessed to meet these 3 woman and in particular all of the woman that weekend in Green Valley.

Melody. I am not sure that there are words for the effect that she has had on my life. I have “known” Melody since the beginning of my creative journey in scrapbooking. In the days of the first Chatterbox lines. I would hunt down pieces and parts to be sure that I had whole rooms to complete my stash! In working with Christy Thomlinson at classes at CKU. Reading her blogs and then losing her. For her only to re-appear stronger, more amazing and one of the owners of the “truth tellers” in my world. BRAVE GIRLS!

Again, I am not sure how it became part of my world. But, I know that it has been right from the start of it. I know that I read some of those first Brave Girl truths. I saw pictures from the first camp. I knew that this was something special. And something that I so needed on my journey. My journey that has left me questioning and doubting everything I once knew. Now, I have many many friends that read them. I feel like I have shared a small piece of hope. I have friends that send me emails.. did you read todays? OMG! I have made a little journal even for a male friend as he struggles to find his way through a realization of a dream. I knew when I heard she would be there. I could not and would not miss it.

She did not disappoint. I sat in the corner. Tears streaming. Hoping that no one saw me. Listening to her tough times, her joyous times. Her struggles and her strong beliefs that have pulled her through. And one part that just struck me. Mercy. “if the drs told me that this would have been 6 years I don’t think I could have made it. Good thing in my head I just kept thinking it was 6 weeks”. No one can see or predict how long you will be in a hard situation, but you will get to the other side. And how do you deal while you are there is what is important. That is where I am in my journey. There are certain parts I can not change. So how can I be at peace with them. And, what hard decisions that maybe I was not willing to make before, am I willing to make now. Melody. I thank you. I thank you for being brave. I thank you for Brave Girls. And I thank you for being you. I admire you. AND I hope… and pray that I can get to Brave Girls Camp next year!!

So as I fly home. I am thankful beyond words. I am grateful for my ability to create. I am thankful that I have met some new friends. I am warm in my heart. I can not wait to see my girls. Squeeze them. Hug them. And one day… have such a story to tell. About a doodle, a dream, and a brave girl.

Teresa Collins

Janna Wilson

Melody Ross

Stephanie Ackerman