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Keep On Climbing ;)

With Summer so close, I'm royally in love with pure, saturated color! I'm all abuzz with positive energy as well - there's been some great things happening lately. Even though I said good-bye to a close confidant this week, times are looking up. A few days ago, I walked the old Stillwater Courthouse, the very place I said "I do" to Eric on our wedding day. The visit was a first since the loss. In the past, I drove by the building, gave it a quick glance, and then moved on. For some unknown reason, this time, I parked the car right in front of the building. Near the front door was a large sign stating "Tours Open". My immediate reaction was to enter, so I mustered up as much courage as I could, and pushed forward. As soon as I stepped inside, an overwhelming energy greeted me.  I wasn't quite sure what to make of it, but my sense was that someone was there to guide me along...someone close to my heart.

Over the next half-hour, I roamed, photographed and studied the interior from top to bottom. Along the way there was the occasional flashback. For example, there had been a recognizable window that Eric's aunt had peeked into during one of the photo sessions. There she stood, right behind Eric and I, and we hadn't a clue she'd been there!  It wasn't until after the wedding, upon receiving the official wedding photos, that we found out what she'd been up to. There was also a Mr.George Washington painting at the center of the duo spiral staircase that connected the upper and lower floors. I remember walking the stairs with Eric, hand in hand. We'd just exchanged vows. Now, it was only I walking the stairs and George looked the exact same. Looks like life has been good to him. Go figure.

After navigating the interior and exterior of the courthouse, I felt a tremendous sense of peace, calmness, and happiness. I'd survived. The visit was a major accomplishment. Looking back just a year or so ago, taking a tour of the courthouse wouldn't of been an option in my mind. It's amazing the level of personal transformation undergone between then, and now. I'm a changed woman....yes, I am.

 

I'm going to switch topics here, so bare with me :) The layout is a "climber". Laugh. Actually, the whole climbing analogy is one I came across in a grief publication a number of months ago. My resigned friend, Jeff, and I, often made reference to it when dealing in difficult moments. The goal was to "push forward", or "keep climbing", even if we felt like staying put. Believe it or not, the motto works! I still use it to get through life's harder moments. I'm determined to reach the top! 

 

Also in regards to the layout, is my sudden passion for transparency. Ok, transparency is nothing new for me, but colored transparency, such as the Polaroid frame here, opens up a whole new epicenter of ideas I've yet to try. I wish more manufacturers would work with the material so that I had greater access to it. Cream transparency is especially beautiful.  It's semi-opaque-ness is a joy to work with! 

 

There it is again, the mightily gold gel pen surrounded by black outlining via hand-doodled circles. Inside the circles are spotted chipboard dots from Pink Paislee. I painted around them with "Gold Lame" Smooch, which is far lighter and less opaque than thought. Maybe I need to try a different color...

The pretty turquoise floral glass pebble is a favorite embellishment of mine - it was a Prima find a year or two ago. Recently, I came across two sizable containers of "crystal clear" circle shaped glass cabochons at a local crafts store. They were dirt cheap - around $2.50 a box!! Here's what they look like..

Glass Pebble Source :: Crafts Direct {St.Cloud, Minnesota}

I plan to back them with my own personal selection of images/patterns. Still have to select an adhesive for the process, but it shouldn't be that hard to locate one. If someone has an adhesive selection that might work for adhering paper to the backside of the pebbles, please share!  

 

A fabric heart is adorned by one of Jolee's new vintage-inspired cabochons. It sits on top a Studio Calico pink label sticker layered with light tan patterned paper. Beneath is a Studio Calico yellow label chipboard piece. Yes, lot's of layers!!

Are you missing the Sassafras die-cut flowers as much as me? Someone, please tell Rebecca that she needs to reopen Sassafras!! I love Rebecca's designs, flowers included!! 

 

More of Jolees new vintage pieces :) Michael's had them on sale at 40% off a couple of weekends ago..I bought a couple of packs. I can't help but love a good sale :))

 

Have you spotted Studio Calico's "Mister Huey's Gold" spray ink? It's pure pretty metallic-ness - it's also more opaque than I expected. I'm very happy with the results..it's shimmery too!

 

A final pick of the layout....yes, my chicken scratch is legible. Laugh. Well, sorta. :)

 Ethan hung out with me while capturing photographs for this post - he totally loves the pebbles. I almost think he likes them more than me...

Time to pack up and head out for the day! I shall return with news of the upcoming tutorial...hoping to develop the base of the project this weekend and start on the label components. Keep you posted!

 

Special Thanks + Mapping Happiness

 

You guys are amazing. Beyond that, I don't really know what else to say. The comments made in response to the weekend's posts left me speechless, literally. Never have I felt so intimately connected to the outside world as I did the last four days. What surprised me most was finding out that nearly everyone shares similar struggles. Whatever life's challenges might be, it's obvious that we're not alone in our dealings with them. Nearly all of us, at some point, are overcome by a single, unexpected  "crash moment" that pushes us to the brink of insanity. Ultimately, it's our personal willpower  and social connections that save us. I speak from experience, hence my continuing presence here. So, to all of you, THANK-YOU for following my story - Your voice saves me time and time again. I'm forever grateful. 

I have a surprise something-or-other  up my sleeve. It's a Summer tutorial titled "Mapping Happiness". This afternoon, I sought out more supplies so that I could start working on it this weekend. I'm going to take a solid two weeks to get it off the ground. If you're curious as to what it's all about, I'll give you two hints:

Antiqued Gold Frame + Map of Italy

~

.....stay tuned. New Layout Tomorrow!

Imagine Peace :: Memorial Day Weekend

 

It's Memorial Day Weekend. Ethan and I will be making the trip to Eric's resting place with a bouquet of roses, an assortment of rocks (Eric was passionate about nature), and the wonderful memories formed during our twelve years together. I'm sure Ethan will find a couple of extra items on our way to the site to give to dad since he's privy to rescuing misplaced flowers, knick-knacks, tree sticks, leaves, and whatever else happens to cross his path prior to our reaching the top of the hill. Laugh. Ethan's to also share his news of graduating from preschool! Next Thursday night is the special graduation ceremony. I know that Eric is mighty proud of his lil'guy - it's a big moment for all of us, but even more so for Ethan. He's come so far, and is already nearing kindergarten..It's a reminder of how quickly time passes and that always, we miss having daddy around. Thinking of you today, Eric. We love & miss you. 

~

More of Eric :: May 2007 - January 2008

"I've been working on this layout for the last few days. Been mostly scrappen' at night when Eric's sleeping and I have a little free time. I took this photo a month or so ago before Eric's last chemo treatment. We were sitting on the couch together hand in hand. Thinken' about all the years we've known each other. 12 total."

- Blog Entry Written a Couple Month's Prior to Eric's Passing -

~

Say what you need to say...

Friendships are hard. At least that's what I'm finding out after a profound series of friendship losses the last eight months. Only a few ever really seem to survive long-term. In thinking about this after suffering a major fall-out this week of what had been an immensely wonderful friendship, I started doing some research on the subject via a route that made sense to me and that had once been a major part of Eric's life; Buddhism. Some of what I read echoed my experiences. It is absolutely true that real friendship is a major source of happiness. Some of the happiest moments in life are spent with those we love, including friends and family. Even a simple engagement, such as a quick exchange between two strangers, can lead to a sense of well being and ease. A true friend can enrich our lives even further. They share with us kind words, listen to our stories, embrace our imperfections, lift us back up following misfortune, and give us hope that tomorrow will be a better day. They also make us laugh to no end, compliment our faults, and inspire positive energy, always. The benefits of friendship are numerous..but finding and maintaining them isn't always easy.

I can't say that my social circle is prolifically huge by any means. It's never been one to brag about, but for someone who aspires to share in close friendships rather than surface relationships, the friends I have are more than enough. Most were cultivated following the loss, as the ones I had prior, departed entirely. Finding new friends has been a grand challenge for me. I admit to being slightly quirky, overly sensitive, occasionally abrasive, and too honest.  I tend to put my foot in my mouth at the perfect moment. I speak before I think. I often forget that there is more than one person in the room. Of course, my true friends have no problem pointing me in the direction of correction if what I say is slightly out of touch with reality. I don't mind either. More often then not, their honesty is what ultimately saves me in the end and it keeps me in check via the long run. Still, my imperfections have a way of scaring most folks away and I don't entirely blame them for not sticking around. Obviously, we're not a match made in heaven. Plus, the connection process is seriously prone to error. I guess that's what makes real friends a source of tremendous value. So, the few that I do have, I hold close and true. Plain and simple, life without them wouldn't be the same...

The loss I suffered this week was because of serious flaws sustained during the maintenance of the friendship. In some respects, we simply shared too much. We grew comfortable giving support and advice to each other on a regular basis. Eventually, the advice and support turned into enabling that lead to a series of misunderstandings. From there, it didn't take long for conflict to replace our usual, insightful conversations And it continued for far too long. Yesterday, the friendship crumbled. In response, I cried. I wanted nothing more than to make it work, and some how I had felt like I failed the friendship. Today, I had to find a way to be ok with the possibility of letting go and to accept that it's purpose had been served. It's said that God brings people in and out of our lives as part of his grand plan for each of us, and it is for our greater good that he does this. I'm starting to believe in the plan, but I'm growing tired of the losses. My wish is that people would just stay. It'd certainly be easier, wouldn't it? I suppose then we couldn't appreciate the good ones, the happiness makers. Their contribution to the plan is by far more relevant and of greater consequence. 

I'd love to hear about your friendships, the good, bad, and everyday reliables. Please share...it's a subject that is near and dear to me.

Mara Mi Stationary Store :: Part Two

As promised, here are the second set of images captured of Mara Mi's Stationary Store in downtown Stillwater, MN. I had difficulty putting the camera down. The colorful displays were intoxicating and it seemed that behind every nook and cranny was more to look at. Truthfully, I had wanted to bring all of it home with me, including the gloriously decorated table at the store's front entrance. Talk about a fabulous introduction. Maybe I should just pack my bags and move in already. 

I'd like to pass along a quick thanks to Gary, Mara Mi's owner, for stopping by and commenting a day or two ago. What a tremendously wonderful surprise!! And I'm all for expanding Mara Mi's presence, Gary. London sounds about perfect!

I love how Mara Mi displays their washi tape selection. It sits tidely and patiently inside two large glass jars that sit amongst other office supplies. Surrounding them are "washi tape" kits - this set of extra thin washi tape was by far my favorite :)) 

 

Just across from the washi tape was a bold, get-right-to-it collection of Japanese mechanical pencils and notebooks. I was inches away from claiming a pencil for the purse - they're some of the prettiest pencils I've ever seen!

 

Yes, Mara Mi designs partyware! Napkins, plates, silverware, etc. Have a Summer party coming up, and live in Minnesota? Check out Mara Mi's large extended partyware selection. There's lots to choose from :) 

 

Do you sometimes buy a card simply because the design inspires you? I've done it a couple of times myself in the past. The Thank-You card was an immediate purchase. I couldn't surpass it's almost perfectly "Christine" color palette. 

 

And there you have it, Mara Mi, cozy on the corner of a busy intersection inside the beautiful area of Stillwater - a regular travel destination for those of us that live in the Twin Cities - there are a ton of shops and restaurants in the area to be enjoyed, Mara included! Can't wait to get back there...two weeks and counting!

Crate Paper + Little Boy Blue "New"

 

 

When I heard that Crate Paper was releasing lil' boy and lil' girl baby collections this Spring, I just knew they'd be extra cute! Each has a slightly different feel and vibe, but both encompass that retro-ish feel that's recognizably "Crate", and only "Crate". Of course, there are some new embellishment/paper additions - check out the wood "baby-themed" shapes, and matching AC Thickers. Also, the boy collection is home to a "flashy" patterned paper that'll cost you less than a buck - though some trim-work is required. Still, the flashcards, when seperated, are worth every little penny. Use them alone, or together (frame the sheet while you're at it! The paper is super darling...)

 I actually had a chance to create with the collection over Mother's Day weekend. Before doing so though, I had to seek out a baby picture. Sadly, I lost all of Ethan's baby pictures to a failed external harddrive a number of months ago. Luckily, I as able to located an adorable picture of Ethan's cousin instead. Them blue eyes are as precious as can be...

Believe it or not, this young lil' boy is now well over three years old! Ethan and I have plans to see him this weekend as his sister is about to turn one - guess I'll have to use the Baby Girl collection to document the special, upcoming occasion. :))

 

I'm keeping the post short and sweet 'cause I'd love for you to make it to Crate's blog to see the new collections as soon as you depart from here. Make sure to tell Crate Paper what you think of them!! Leave a comment if you'd be so willing. Lastly, there's a "Name that Baby" contest on Friday - Lullaby could be all your's for free! Mark your calendars. See you over there..

Mara-Mi Store + Cafe :: Stillwater, Minnesota

When it comes to bold colors, modern patterns, big typography statements, hand-illustrated graphics and all things paper, you know I'm there. So, when I heard the rumor that Mara-Mi planted itself in the quaint, trendy district of Stillwater, Minnesota, I added the stationary shop to my "must-see-to-believe" roster immediately. I made the first visit to Mara-Mi two months ago, but forgot the camera. No kidding.  Finally, this last Saturday, with camera in tow, and the lil' fella Ethan, I drove the forty-five minutes again, to see the place a second time.  Upon arrival, we stopped off at the store's in-house cafe for a quick treat so as to settle in before going crazy with the camera, and "yes", the checkbook. The idea of leaving empty handed hadn't seemed much of an option given the two big glass jars of washi tape sitting at the back table. A couple hundred photos and five tape rolls later, we said our good-bye's to Mara-Mi. And, after a two hour photoshop session tonight, I'm ready to share the trip! Be prepared, there's a ton of color ahead!

 *Because I took enough photos to supply a week's worth of blog posts, I'm breaking the Mara-Mi presentation in-half. Stop by on Friday to see the rest of the images..

I'm skipping the descriptions this time around. I figure there's enough photos here to outlast any further info needing mention. Now tell me you wouldn't shop this place like no one's business...

 

Shifting Scrapbook Trends :: The Modern Design Takeover

 

White. White. White. I don't know what to make of this up & coming neutral. Normally, I shy away from using it. Period. My creativity is driven by color, almost exclusively. Still, I'm drawn to it's modern, clean appearance because I'm really liking some of the new scrapbook trends lately. A couple days ago, I sat around thinking about ways in which to incorporate it into my scrapbook style. While at my desk, I experienced a sudden, unexpected light bulb moment that went something like this...

Treat white like a side item. Around it, create a bright color palette. And don't just use a little bit of color either..go all out! Skip the sanitary white-on-white layering. When formulating the color palette, balance pastels with bold, lively hues. Also, as a whole, the presentation should be eclectic, but not overly random. To do this, partner neutral patterns with more lively ones. Make use of embellishments in unexpected ways, as well.

I'm really excited to give some of these ideas a try. I hope to build on them as well. I'll keep you posted as to my progress. It's time to embrace change...

 

Another trend I told myself I wouldn't give into, Washi Tape. For the longest time, it's price point made it extremely easy to look the other way. While everyone else was collecting stacks of washi tape, I was avoiding it. Laugh. Well, wouldn't you know it, times have changed. After running into a table that's surface was covered with jars and bowls of patterned/solid washi tape varieties, I caved and bought five of them. Currently, I own eight rolls. Since purchasing the last roll, I told myself, "no more". Well, surprise, surprise! Every manufacturer under the sun is producing the crafty, soft-stick tape! Just a couple a days ago, I almost succumbed to a three-pack! Thankfully, the practical side of Christine kicked in. Honestly, how much washi tape do I really need?! Yes, it's cute, but it's tape, plain & simple. Scotch tape works just as great! Ummmm..maybe not.

 Metallic colors are HUGE ,again. I'm very happy about their return to the design scene. A number of years ago, I outlined everything in gold. I then followed it up with black outlining. I owned an ample number of gold gel pens, too. Thankfully, I kept a few. As of right now, I'm expanding my gold-ware collection - this small jar of gold smooch is waiting for me at my desk. Not quite sure what I'm going to do with it yet...

 

As a random insert, I accidently came across this retro-ish, red polka-dot transparency at the local Archivers. It's part of a brand new release from Fancy Pants called "Wave Searcher". It's truly bright red, and is flocked. Can't wait to create with it! 

 

I can't confess to being a good cook by any means, but I'm learning to make use of fresh goods over the less-than-stellar processed foods I'm trying hard to avoid. Today's late night cooking spree included freshly baked blueberry scones! Find the delicious recipe HERE.  I promise, after one bite, you'll be sold on them! They're heavenly tasting...

 

Last weekend, we made a trip to the local Ikea store to pick up a new kids table for Ethan, and a cream shag rug for the living room. During the visit, we stopped off at Ethan's favorite hot spot, the light fixture area. While there, Ethan thought it a good idea to help the retailer save on energy usage by turning off a row of lamps. Unfortunately, I had to instruct him to turn them back on. Of course, he happily accepted the request because it'd been another opportunity to play with the switches. He's crazy about mechanics and how things work - it's too bad I'm not an engineer.

I should probably depart. I have a calculus final that begins at 7:45am, sharp. That's less than seven hours from now. The last final, Micro Economics, is on Thursday..so close to the finish line. Wish me luck!

Good-Bye Spring Semester & Hello Summer School!

Hello Friends, on this very fine Friday! Yes, I seem to pop in and out of this place at random. On the flip side of that though, Spring semester is just about over {two finals remain!}. It's hard to believe that already, I conquered two years of business school (Business Calculus, Macro Econ, Micro Econ, Accounting I, Information Computer Systems (Database Development), etc.) It's a HUGE achievement given the circumstances of the last four years. I feel truly blessed that all has worked out well. In pushing forward, I have two Summer Class ahead of me; Accounting II & Business Stats. One starts in June, and the other, July....the adventure continues.

Speaking of which, from the movie "Up!", my very favorite line...

The movie tugs at my heartstrings every time I watch it, but this quote is so, so true. Eric would have said the very same thing! 

 

A few days ago, I spent the morning with my good friend, Jeff, at the local Brueggers Bagel Shop. Upon concluding our visit, I handed him my camera to take a couple of photos - he did a pretty amazing job! Love that I look happy and healthy again. :)) 

 

Yesterday, I posted a brand new layout at the Crate Paper blog! It's followed by a lengthy description and a brief number of technique ideas. There's a whole range of colorful photos as well - locate it HERE. 

Also, Crate's hosting it's May color challenge!! Tara Anderson has once again created a new "gorgeous" color palette - just look at her clothesline display..the PEACH is heavenly, don't you think?

One more item about Crate Paper before concluding today's post :)) There's been a makeover of sorts, one that has been long time coming, and is extremely exciting..feel like taking a guess? I'll return Monday with a full disclosure - enjoy the weekend!

Cute Ethan Story + An Elle's Studio Invite

For nearly two weeks we'd waited to see Jeff's pinball machine. Ethan had been beyond excited to check it out. So, for two weeks, it was the only thing he'd talk about until we finally reached Jeff's house on Saturday. Here's the run down on our exchanges - I think you'll get a good chuckle out it. Be prepared, there's a curve ball head...

Visit arranged, one week to go...

"Mom, how many more days until we go to Jeff's house?"
"In a couple of weeks, Ethan."
"Mom, that's a long time. How about we go tomorrow?"
"Jeff won't be home tomorrow."
"Well, I want to see his pinball machine now. I don't want to waaaaait."
 

Fast forward to the big day, just hours prior...

"Mom, is it time to go? How many more hours?"
"Four more hours. That's it!"
"But that's a long time. Can't we go now?"
"Nope. Jeff is working."

 Leaving the house, officially...

"How long is it going to take to get there?"
"Thirty-minutes, Ethan. Remember, first we're having dinner with our friends."
"I want to see the pinball machine before we eat."
"Sorry bud, it's food before games."
"Ohhhh man."
 

Destination  behold...

"Mom, it's in the living room."
"Do you want to play it?"
"Not yet."
"Really? But you've been super excited about it..."
"First, I'm going to play with the Legos."
 

I should of known. Legos. What about that pinball machine he'd been talking about the last two weeks? Eventually, with Jeff's motivation, he gave it a whirl. He had a blast, too. And now that we're home, he's asking about it again. Something tells me there will be another visit to Jeff's soon. Laugh. Ethan is such a hoot! Maybe next time he'll skip the Legos, you think? 

~

Over the years, I've been so very fortunate to meet an abundance of wonderful people from within the scrapbook community. Some of them have turned into blossoming friendships that I greatly cherish. They're my saving grace. And no matter the amount of time that passes, the friendships never change. Naturally, they just exist, as is. They're some of the best friendships you'll ever create, truly.

One such friend, is Elle. Yes, Elle from Elle's Studio. I've known her a couple of years. Love her. Love her tags. Love her kits. I recently had a chance to create with Elle's Studio April kit, "Here & Now". Over the weekend, I laid the kit contents on my desk and immediately got to work. 

The kit's color palette gave me the idea to take out a recent photo of our furry cute creature, Casper. Like many of my photos, it had been waiting for the right moment. The soft colors fit him perfectly.

There's a hidden secret about Elle, and I'm about to expose it. Inside her well packaged boxes is the cutest shade of pink tissue paper you'll ever see. Every time I open an Elle's Studio box, almost instantly, the pinkness of the paper makes me smile. Not surprisingly, with the kit, the paper greeted me once again. I pulled it out, folded it multiple times and trimmed a small flower from the layers and layers of paper. I gathered them together with a tiny brad and then placed on top, a velvet yellow flower (Maya Road). I also curled up the edges, just slightly, to give it that messy look. Finally, I positioned it on the layout for an extra boost of pink!

 

Polaroid frames from Studio Calico's "Numerical" patterned paper serve as frames for the layout's titlework. I filled them in with antiqued Vanilla cardstock. I then taped them up with peach colored washi tape. 

*The numbers are not included in the kit. They're from my personal collection and manufactured by Bella Blvd. 

 

One of my classic, everyday tools that I keep near me while working is a gold gel pen. For the longest time, it's been my tool of choice. I love it's reflective qualities and how kindly it takes to strong, vibrant colors. You can't go wrong with gold! 

 

Fill those tiny spaces with Dimensional adhesive! The dotted pattern can be created on top of anything, really. I was wanting to expand upon the already beautiful hexagons from My Mind's Eye. 

 

It's difficult to see, but I also applied a thin layer of dimensional adhesive to Jenni Bowlin's hexagon stickers. 

 

There's a couple of additional layouts posted at the Elle's Studio blog if you'd like further kit usage ideas! Also, a brand new Elle's Studio Inspiration Gallery is live - get your pin button ready 'cause there's lots to love! 

I'll see you again on a brand new day! Oops, before I forget, Blue Birds take flight at the Crate Paper blog all this week! There's a Pretty Party giveaway up for grabs, too! Chirp. Chirp. >>