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!
