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Widowhood :: Big Girl Pants

This lil' album is still a work in progress, but let me tell ya, it's been a major source of therapy for me!! There is still so much about this widowhood journey that is all-consuming, including the complexities of dating. I think I'm getting better at grasping the size and scope of it, but that doesn't go to say that there aren't moments I'd rather forego the frogs and stay living in the palace all by my lonesome. Laugh. But, I'm not going to let a few "toads" get in the way of me meeting Mr.Right! Also, I don't desire to live in an empty palace the rest of my life. It's all about re-initiation and staying afloat - If there's anything to be had from this whole widowhood ordeal, it's that "big girl pants" are non-optional! I bought myself a new pair - they're toad resistant, too.

 

I've taken to hiding a portion of this page, but those details will never come to light here. Instead, because this album is of a more personal nature (autobiographical), I'm going to focus on the various elements and techniques that I think might be of interest to you. And there's quite a few that went into the two pages on display today.

The first encompasses a 4" x 6" (My Mind's Eye) transparency that is layered with a host of patterned papers and random embellishments. And because of it's transparent nature, I had to take into consideration the corresponding page beneath it. So, it was essential that I paid attention to both pages during the construction process. Each influence the other, and the overall design. 

 

I usually take on a detailed page like this in sections. On this particular page, I started in the upper right corner. I trimmed a rectangular section of neutral patterned paper (Studio Calico), and adhered it down. I covered the top portion of it with a small square cardstock frame (Quikutz Die) backed with a clear definition sticker (Making Memories). Before positioning the chipboard bookplate (American Crafts) with tiny pearl brads (My Mind's Eye), I applied a brown label sticker over the definition, and a label rub-on emphasizing the word "Joy" (Basic Grey). I distressed the chipboard bookplate with a nail file.

 

A netted pink flower (Prima) finds it's way onto two more that our both dotted and neutral (October Afternoon & Making Memories). Anytime you've a solid color flower to work with, for a quick easy boost, partner it with matching neutral color flowers. I use this technique frequently so as to emphasis the prettiest part of the flower and to avoid clashing colors and patterning. 

 

This is my favorite page from the album thus far - it's color palette is punchy and poignant. It also emphasizes the "strength" and depth of the moment documented - there's also another item from it that stands out...

I plan to bring about this subject via it's own post, but I've a very special friend out there that I've grown immensely close to the last six months. We talk nearly everyday - and I'm grateful for her company. Tara Anderson recently sent me a small box of her handmade flowers and embellishments. Some of you might be familiar with her popular Etsy store and have been lucky enough to purchase an item or two from her (sells out fast!). If the case, then you know how much work and time goes into the construction of her pieces. They're astonishingly lovely...I recommend regular visits to her blog to keep up with her latest Etsy releases.

I removed a flower from the box and added it to the page. I laid it on top a large doily rub-on (Basic Grey). Note the pretty stitching and beadwork. I must take to creating some of these :) If only I had Tara's knack for modern, fashion forward color combo's! 

 

As to some of the other items on this page, here's a quick run-down: Butterflies (Making Memories), Yellow Rhinestone Brad (Pink Paislee), Rose Sticker (October Afternoon), Epoxy Rose Sticker (Making Memories), Best of Luck & Better Soon (Papertrey Ink Stamps), Journal Card (October Afternoon).

 

A required American Crafts Chipboard Alpha Set, "Hardcover" - available in four different hues. If I see'em, I buy'em. 

 

Filling up! This altered album will be a constant work-in-progress.  I'll supplement it with new pages as needed - and if more space is required, I'll pair it with a partnering album. The best part about autobiographical journals is that they can be whatever you want - the ending doesn't have to be clearly defined and time is never an issue! It's also the perfect means for trying out new techniques and using up supplies you might of otherwise ignored. :)

For further album info, send me an email! Have a great day my friends!

A Return to Crafting & Real Life

This album feels perfect in every way. It radiates from a sincere place in my heart and each time I look at it, there's an intensity I can't quite overcome. I recently told a friend that often, my best work stems from "real life" - if I'm put to the challenge of both processing and dealing with something outwardly, what ends up coming about is a direct reflection of what's inside. This album speaks volumes as to my current standing, and if it had an actual voice, it'd tell you that I'm ready to move on, make peace, and continue with the search. And allow me to say, it feels tremendously good to craft, again. :) It's been far too long since my last run-in with an album of this size. 

A couple of you emailed me concerning the brand of the album used in this project - it's Bo Bunny! I purchased it from a local archivers, but I imagine it's probably available elsewhere (online?). The album includes canvas binding, and a petite binder ring set. It's of a convenient size as well - neither too big or small! It's easily paintable, but I prefer the look of "Kraft" instead. If you've questions about the album or have difficulty finding a resource in which to purchase one, I'd recommend getting in contact with Bo Bunny directly. I'm sure they'd be of great help in locating an appropriate retailer for you. 

I've been doing a lot of experimenting with page sizes and page combinations inside the album. I've also taken to evaluating the relationship between each of the given pages - my goal is to have them blend seamlessly and as an individual, cohesive unit. Whatever page you happen to be on, a slight sneak of the page beneath it is within view. This encourages "movement" and curiosity. It also serves as a great opportunity to build varying embellishment set-ups between multiple pages! 

* Note that I went digi, too! I've a sizable digi collection on my computer, but rarely find time to take advantage of it. Because of the eclectic nature of this album, I thought it an optimal moment to make use of a couple of digital frames and phrases. Super simple...

Here, I took an individual digital frame, duplicated it, and then partnered the two frames together on a canvas colored digital pattern paper background. As a final detail, a quick digital phrase was added about myself on top the bottom photo.

And the shabby chic paper clip serves a specific purpose...

Between the photos and it's corresponding transparency (situated via staples), is an open space for private journaling. I trimmed to size a journaling spot from Vanilla cardstock and tucked it inside the homemade pocket. To assist in keeping the journaling spot from escaping, I positioned a clip. When you pull the clip, the journaling spot follows. It's a nifty little trick, don't you think?! 

 

I've plans to add a photo to this area, but it's without for now. I guess you could say it's a page-in-progress. :)

It's the tiniest of details that make all the difference sometimes - and there are always ample embellishments available to cater to these kinds of set-ups. Consider some of the smaller stickers you might have on hand - how often do you look past them because of their size? When used alone, tiny items tend to get lost - but when used in partnership, they take on a whole new perspective! The key is organizing them and having them ready at any given moment - cups come in extra handy for storing tiny odd and ends - so do drawers!

 If you've any questions about the album or the supplies used, please leave me a comment. I'll try my hardest to provide an answer/response in a day or two. Have a lovely Wednesday!