tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76366106969166539912024-02-02T12:13:01.847-06:00A Peaceful Place To BeLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.comBlogger355125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-763888276428596102014-12-28T18:47:00.002-06:002014-12-28T18:47:31.788-06:00End of Year Wrap UpI haven't been a very good blogger this year. It's not that I wasn't busy doing lots of fun stuff, but a few things kind of got in the way and stole my blogging "mojo" for a while. So, while I usually do an end of year synopsis that includes all the stuff I blogged about during the year, this year, I'm going to post here about some of the things I didn't already post about and put all the last half of the year into one post - so I'm warning you now, this will be long and picture heavy!<br />
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So, here we go:<br />
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In mid-May we went home to Connecticut to see my family. We were so lucky that the weather was nice for our trip and we got to experience some of the beauty of the bike path in Cheshire.<br />
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We took a day trip out to Mystic to visit a few little shops I wanted to see and even went by the Mystic Seaport. Me, Doug, and Joao (Ja-wow-wow!)<br />
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Here I am with my sister, Amanda; and my cute nephew, Joao.<br />
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We even squeezed in a trip to NYC and had fun seeing the sights and doing some shopping.<br />
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At the end of May, our Doll Club hosted Jessica Hamilton and Paula McGee, two fabulous teachers. I ended up taking the class with Jessica Hamilton since I wanted to learn how to make a ball jointed doll. </div>
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The picture below is my face in its initial stages - kind of ugly, I know.</div>
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Here she is all in pieces ready to be strung together:<br />
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Here she is all put together but without any clothes or hair as of yet. For my first ever ball jointed doll, I think she came out pretty good.<br />
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At the end of the summer, just as we were moving back into the house after all of the construction, we had some visitors! My sister and her family came for a few days and we had the best time. </div>
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At the splash pads, I don't know who loved it more - my sweet nephew or his dad. ;) <br />
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We ate at Osaka, the hibachi restaurant one evening and that was lots of fun.<br />
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We spent several nights at the pool staying right up until closing. The first night, we stayed past closing time and actually got ourselves locked in! We had to call the homeowner's association and luckily Doug came and was able to let us out with a special key through the clubhouse. For a while, we thought we were going to have to spend the night sleeping in the pool chairs. :) It was a good lesson to be out of the pool, packed up and ready to go.<br />
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It was a fun, fun week filled with lots of activities and I was very sad when it was time to say goodbye, and send them back to Connecticut.</div>
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I had big plans for my yard this year but they didn't come to fruition with all the other stuff that was going on. </div>
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It was still pretty and a nice sanctuary for lots of birds, butterflies, and<br />
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LOTS of hummingbirds! <br />
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At the end of September, my investment club took a trip to Santa Barbara. </div>
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This was the view from the balcony in our room:<br />
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We rode the trolley and walked, and walked, and walked.<br />
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We toured the sights,<br />
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and enjoyed the views.<br />
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We took a wine tour,<br />
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we ate, </div>
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and had a *little* too much to drink. <br />
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It's okay, we weren't driving - we were on our own private bus. <br />
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We even had some down time by the pool, relaxing, reading books, and just enjoying each other's company.<br />
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I volunteered at a few events for the Humane Society of Tulsa. We hosted a BBQ fundraiser and then an adopt-a-thon. Lots of hard work but I loved every minute of each event. Miranda Lambert even made an appearance!</div>
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The next two pictures are from Good Grief Girdie's blog - we took a class from Lesa Dailey at Paper Crown and had a great time.</div>
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And the same weekend was Glitter Market and I was a vendor for the first time!</div>
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Before I knew it, Christmas was here and gone, and now we are gearing up for another New Year.<br />
I'm looking forward to 2015 - how about you?Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-66504760436479665202014-08-01T19:06:00.001-05:002014-08-01T19:06:42.899-05:00Debby Schuh at Paper Crown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last weekend, <a href="http://www.papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown</a> hosted <a href="http://debbyschuh.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Debby Schuh</a> for three fun classes. I had taken one of Debby's classes last year and absolutely loved the project we made. I blogged about it <a href="http://www.apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2013/09/oklahoma-memory-book.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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This year, I was able to sign up for two of the three classes Debby was offering and here is a peek at what we made. Friday night was this adorable LOVE book. It holds small photos and it will be so fun filling this little book.</div>
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Here are some of the embellished pages:<br />
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Look how cute this page is with the prize ribbon. The page flips up so I can put a couple of pictures inside.<br />
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Debby is very generous with her class kits so there is plenty of extra paper and embellishments to add extra pages into the binder.<br />
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Cute, cute, cute!<br />
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This is going to be so much fun to fill. *AND* I finished this! So, now really all I have to do is add pictures. <br />
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The first class on Saturday was this adorable Day at the Seashore book. I love the beach and now I need a beach vacation for some memories to fill this book with.<br />
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There is plenty of open space for pictures, journaling, or whatever. <br />
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The colors are fun and festive, and Debby has such a way with mixing product lines and choosing just the right embellishments.</div>
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Lots of fun little envelopes and tags.<br />
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Lots of different pages. <br />
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I will treasure these books for years to come.<br />
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I wasn't able to take the third class that Debby offered that weekend but the class sample was every bit as beautiful as the others. <br />
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Debby lives in upstate New York but travels all over the world to teach. I would highly recommend taking a class or two if you get a chance. She also hosts shopping trips to Paris, England, and New York City. Maybe I'll see you on one of those fabulous shopping trips! ;)Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-16314213541250664562014-07-21T17:53:00.001-05:002014-07-21T17:53:05.150-05:00Here we go again with Restoration #2I've been kind of quiet around here because I've been preoccupied. Stressed out and preoccupied. You may remember a little over a year ago, we went through a huge restoration when we had a tiny water leak that affected our entire first floor. I blogged about it <a href="http://www.apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2013/02/roughing-it.html" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://www.apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2013/02/what-mess.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2013/02/not-such-peaceful-place.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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After the restoration was complete, everything looked great until about two months after we moved in. I started noticing the floors weren't "right". For a YEAR, I went back and forth with the the restoration company who kept telling me everything was fine and I kept insisting it wasn't. My gut told me things weren't right. I'd wait a couple months and call them back again, over and over. I finally got two outside opinions and each contractor told me at a minimum we needed to have the floors refinished.<br />
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We finally got the original contractor to agree to refinish the floors and were getting ready to schedule a date when I found the source of the problem. The plumber who installed the toilet in the 1/2 bath didn't install it correctly and it had been leaking under the floors for the past year. YEP. Guess I was right.<br />
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So that means the ENTIRE job gets to be done again. Not only that, but since it is a 3rd party liability claim, I had to go round and round with <u>everyone</u> to get this project scheduled. I had to deal with the contractor, the adjuster, and the 3rd party insurer. It took over a month and multiple, draining phone calls to finally get this project underway.<br />
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So, the mess gets bigger as they pack us up once again. How do you decide what you need for the next five weeks and what you can live without?<br />
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It makes my stomach turn to see our home be upended this way once again. It's a violation for people to be pawing over our stuff. And the dogs were beside themselves with all these people in our home, packing up our things.<br />
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Ugh. So empty.<br />
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We really have to do this all again??? If you blow up the picture big enough, you will see the granite countertops on the back porch next to the toilet sitting out there too. I'm sure the neighbors think we are total white trash. I don't care. I'm over it.<br />
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Today the demolition finally began and it's a mix of feeling sick to my stomach over what is happening to my home, and a mix of relief that we are finally moving forward and that much closer to getting it all back to normal.<br />
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I'm sure the neighbors like seeing all this crap in the garage along with the giant dumpster and pod parked in the driveway, and construction vehicles clogging our quiet little street.<br />
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It gets worse before it gets better, right?</div>
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Last renovation, we were stupid enough to live in the guest bedroom with the four dogs while all this went on. This time, I couldn't face all that and started stressing out about going to a hotel with the dogs. I kept praying about what we were going to do and stressing how I was going to handle it all. God had a plan and I didn't need to worry about a thing!</div>
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We didn't end up in a hotel. THIS is where we are staying:</div>
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It's a 20 acre property that used to be a mini horse farm. Our friends own this beautiful place and it has been sitting empty so they allowed us to rent it for the time we need AND it's no problem to have the dogs here!<br />
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The grounds are beautiful! We're calling it our country manor. ;)<br />
Below is the barn where the mini horses used to sleep. It has cute living quarters on the second level. <br />
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The house itself is way bigger than what we need for a rental but we are enjoying our time here. There is a large room at one end of the house that we think was at one time a home office. When we saw the windows with this amazing view of the back yard, we decided to camp out in there. So we wake up to this beautiful view. </div>
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It's aggravating, stressful and just a big pain in the neck to be going through this for a second time but I just Thank God for all the wonderful things in our lives. I really shouldn't complain because nobody is hurt, nobody is sick, we didn't lose anything, and the house is being repaired. Plus, look at this place we get to stay! </div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-60369496843062839842014-06-23T16:53:00.003-05:002014-06-23T16:53:48.889-05:00A few Birdsong 4 projects<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Andrea Singarella taught this beautiful bracelet class and supplied all the vintage findings.<br />
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For those who finished early with their bracelets, Andrea generously offered additional beads and findings so we could make earrings. I love mine!</div>
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Karla taught a fun class of wool spun cotton fairies. The dog lovers at our table used the additional images Karla provided to make ours into dog fairies.<br />
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Lori Oles taught a sweet, nature inspired shadow box class. <br />
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The last class of the weekend was a beautiful mobile that was taught by Karla. It's going to be so pretty when it's done but I didn't quite finish mine before it was time to pack up. If I get it done anytime soon, I'll be sure to post some photos.<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-40285013739617890002014-06-18T18:34:00.002-05:002014-06-18T18:34:46.991-05:00Birdsong 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wow - it's been a while, hasn't it? Let me get right to it then. :)</div>
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A couple weeks ago, I traveled with my friend <a href="http://www.junqueseeker.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Terri</a> up to Lawrence, Kansas for Birdsong 4 at <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla Nathan's</a> home. I've been every year since the first one and it's always a great weekend. Terri and I travel well together and it's always nice to hang out with her.</div>
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<a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla</a> recently had a new patio installed and everything was looking great for us.</div>
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Lots of plants, flowers and fresh herbs that <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla </a>uses in her cooking. <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla</a> is a fantastic cook - everything is healthy and delicious and prepared with lots of love.<br />
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How cute is this? It's always fun to just take some time to look around. <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla </a>is always moving things around so we have new vignettes to look at and enjoy.<br />
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Most of us traveled up a day early to shop at West Bottoms which is a warehouse area with lots of antique shops. It's only open one weekend a month so this is where we got the weekend started. Here's Terry and Laurie:<br />
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It was a long hot day of shopping and walking and we were pretty exhausted at the end of the day. But the fun didn't stop there - Karla's friend Angie invited us all to her shop for a lovely party. <a href="http://bethleintz.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Beth</a> set up a make n take in the back room so we got to eat, shop, create, and socialize. Fun, fun, fun!</div>
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If you are a usual reader of my blog, you know that I love swaps! This spring was so busy for me that I didn't have a chance to sign up for any this time. I knew that I would be sorry when the time came for the swaps, but I didn't want to commit and then not be able to do my best work, or have to rush and stress out. This years swaps were a banner swap, an altered bottle swap, and an altoid tin swap. They did not disappoint! The talent in this group is amazing. </div>
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Here is Linda with her bottle swap. She is always so colorful and happy. :)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5O5-L5Ze3AY/U6IYyGFCSsI/AAAAAAAADq4/XwzFvuEBpIM/s1600/DSC_0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5O5-L5Ze3AY/U6IYyGFCSsI/AAAAAAAADq4/XwzFvuEBpIM/s1600/DSC_0040.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
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Here are Suzanne and <a href="http://vintageconnections.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tami</a> showing off one of the beautiful banner creations.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VRoLMlyAgw/U6IYxyeXGrI/AAAAAAAADq0/ZRh8GEdND2g/s1600/DSC_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VRoLMlyAgw/U6IYxyeXGrI/AAAAAAAADq0/ZRh8GEdND2g/s1600/DSC_0090.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://vintage-whimsy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hope</a>, <a href="http://karlascottage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Karla</a> and Randy:<br />
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This is an altoid tin that was decorated by Terry Frias for Pam. I want it!</div>
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My crafty tablemates seated clockwise from the left are <a href="http://www.junqueseeker.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Terri</a>, <a href="http://indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laurie,</a> Tammy, and Terry. Laurie is a four timer to Birdsong - just like me. It was Terry's first time, but I bet it won't be her last!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNFWW3xdCG0/U6IY05Jh72I/AAAAAAAADrU/yNHHj5CBRbc/s1600/DSC_0119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNFWW3xdCG0/U6IY05Jh72I/AAAAAAAADrU/yNHHj5CBRbc/s1600/DSC_0119.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just down the table is <a href="http://www.besottment.com/" target="_blank">Hope</a> and Linda.<br />
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It's so fun to see old friends every year and of course, to meet a few new ones too.</div>
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Rhonda, Linda, Gail and Nora checking out one of the swaps.<br />
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In the next post, I'll share pictures of our projects. :)<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-85845289297613207182014-04-28T13:24:00.000-05:002014-04-28T13:24:08.269-05:00Bobbie's Vintage Bunny Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Saturday before Easter, <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/04/blog-post.html" target="_blank">Bobbie</a> taught this Vintage Bunny Class at <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown</a>. Isn't she the cutest?</div>
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Just check out this adorable class kit! </div>
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And of course, this sweet little name tag! I save them all and have them on a bulletin board in my craft room. Maybe I'll do a blog post on that. Hmmm....<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-34705941527248258962014-04-26T11:53:00.002-05:002014-04-26T11:53:34.430-05:00Glittered Retreat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh my gosh ~ I can't believe I have neglected my blog this long. I've been thinking about blogging but just haven't had a block of time to do it. So sorry! </div>
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Well anyway. This post will be loaded with pictures so hopefully you enjoy!</div>
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Earlier in the month my favorite store in Oklahoma City, <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown</a>, hosted an amazing<a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/2014/04/paper-crown-glittered-retreat-day-1.html" target="_blank"> Glittered Retreat</a>. You know I love a good retreat and I knew this wasn't to be missed. I signed up long before the projects were announced because at Paper Crown, there is NEVER a class I want to miss.</div>
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For the first <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/2014/04/paper-crown-glittered-retreat-day-1.html" target="_blank">Glittered Retreat</a> all the teachers were our local favorites. We have incredible talent right here in Oklahoma and to get to take a class with each of these ladies in one weekend was a real treat! The weekend lineup included <a href="http://goodgriefgirdie.typepad.com/blog/" target="_blank">Jackie Peters</a>, <a href="http://medeah.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Medeah</a>, <a href="http://hollyabston.com/" target="_blank">Holly Abston</a>, and <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/03/once-upon-time.html" target="_blank">Bobbie Sanders. </a> I've added links to their blogs and definitely check them out!<br />
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Below are the pictures of the projects scheduled for the weekend. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(note: I didn't take the project pictures, I got them from the Paper Crown blog)</span><br />
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Jackie's Project:<br />
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The class kit's for Jackie's class. I know - it's okay to be jealous. ;)</div>
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Bobbie's Project:<br />
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And Bobbie always outdoes herself: (the outside)</div>
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The inside of Bobbie's kit. We had a little laugh because Bobbie said she created the inside of the kits with me in mind. She wrapped all the individual trims on a card because somehow when I'm in a class with Bobbie my embellishments end up everywhere but my work space! This way, I can keep track of everything. ;)</div>
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Holly's Project:<br />
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I didn't get a picture of Holly's kits but we were able to select our favorite vintage wallpaper and seam binding from her amazing stash! :)</div>
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Medeah's Project:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wou5Fcez8mY/U1vaQ7vfZoI/AAAAAAAADk0/elxs3o2eSak/s1600/Glittered+Retreat+Project.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wou5Fcez8mY/U1vaQ7vfZoI/AAAAAAAADk0/elxs3o2eSak/s1600/Glittered+Retreat+Project.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Medeah's kit. We were lucky because she prepared the boards for us ahead of time to speed things along. </div>
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Bobbie made these fabulous programs for our weekend. Every little detail was taken into consideration to make this such a fun time for all of us.</div>
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While we each were to make our own name tags for a contest, this sweet little name tag and pencil awaited me prior to Jackie's class.<br />
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And OH YES! Don't we all love a sweet swag bag filled with lovely treats???<br />
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The ladies worked for WEEKS transforming the upstairs room into this fun and beautiful space for our meals. Each time we entered this room, the decor and tablescapes were different and new. </div>
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See ~ I told you! Such attention to detail.<br />
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Just lovely. And although I didn't get pictures of the food, it was amazing too. Everything lovingly prepared and served. The Paper Crown ladies know how to spoil us!<br />
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How sweet.<br />
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These ladies worked their tail feathers off for us. I don't think words can convey the appreciation I know we all had for all the hard work, attention to detail, and creation of such a special weekend we all had. <br />
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On Friday afternoon, we took a shopping field trip to <a href="http://rinkgallery.com/" target="_blank">The Rink</a> which is an antique mall. When we were finished shopping we were surprised with all this goodness waiting for us at the front of the mall. Inside the pink box was a delicious cupcake. A nice drink of water in adorably decorated bottles and a copy of a favorite magazine. What more could we ask for???</div>
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I'm sure I've forgotten to mention some of the details but go on over to the other blogs with links and I'm sure you'll see plenty more! </div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-55830837272834870982014-03-04T14:53:00.000-06:002014-03-04T14:53:20.295-06:00St. Patty's Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When <a href="http://vivs-whimsy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Vivian </a>announced a Secret Leprechaun swap I knew I had to be in, so I signed up first thing. Then, I began to panic because I don't <u>really</u> celebrate St. Patrick's Day and I certainly don't have any decorations for it.</div>
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Once I settled down and started thinking about what I would make for this swap, I really had fun. The person I'm sending this to doesn't know yet that I'm her Secret Leprechaun. Here is a tag I made to send along with a couple goodies.</div>
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This little hanging ornament turned out kind of sweet. It measures approximately 5x7 and is a burlap "pillow" with a decoupaged sheet of music, an Irish girl, and some other embellishments on the front.<br />
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I'm happy with the way this banner turned out, and I hope I have time to make myself one just like it. It was hard to photograph so in the picture below, I took a closeup of the letter L.<br />
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My Secret Leprechaun was <a href="http://kenward.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kim K</a>. Kim and I had swapped <a href="http://www.apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2012/02/valentine-heart-swap.html" target="_blank">Valentine's</a> a year or so ago. She's a speedy Leprechaun and my package of St. Patty's goodness arrived over the weekend. It was all so festively wrapped which is part of the fun!<br />
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This frame with the 3d Leprechaun is just the sweetest thing! What a great idea.<br />
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She also made this cute Leprechaun in a cloche. Don't you just love this?<br />
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<a href="http://kenward.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kim</a> also included a fun shamrock necklace, some St. Patty's napkins and some gold coins. Thanks Kim! And thanks to <a href="http://vivs-whimsy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Viv</a> for hosting this fun little swap. :)Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-49448007464422705172014-03-03T12:47:00.000-06:002014-03-03T12:47:01.880-06:00Spring Soiree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/03/spring-soiree.html" target="_blank">Bobbie</a> hosted another fabulous <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/03/spring-soiree.html" target="_blank">Soiree </a>at <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Paper Crown</a> this weekend. I always feel like an excited little kid again when I arrive to see the fun decorations she has taken so much time to prepare for our class. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4VK98Xljfk/UxTJMK8Yz8I/AAAAAAAADgA/9KFdKbXwjUI/s1600/DSC02274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4VK98Xljfk/UxTJMK8Yz8I/AAAAAAAADgA/9KFdKbXwjUI/s1600/DSC02274.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cupcakes, candy, cake. Oh yes - please!<br />
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Of course, don't forget the name tags. I have quite the collection now and they always make me smile.<br />
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This was the main project. I signed up for <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/03/spring-soiree.html" target="_blank">the Soiree </a>before I even knew what the project would be. I knew there was no way to be disappointed and true to form, Bobbie outdid herself. </div>
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Of course, as if the above project wasn't quite enough, we made these sweet "party favors". Just precious!</div>
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It was a great day to celebrate Shelley's 40th birthday. This was Shelley's third party and she had one more to go that night. </div>
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As always, it was nice to hang out and visit with Nan. I'm so lucky for my sweet, creative friends. :)</div>
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To see even more pics, <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/03/spring-soiree.html" target="_blank">click here to go directly to Bobbie's post.</a></div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-54162173111439215632014-03-01T12:00:00.000-06:002014-03-01T12:00:03.899-06:003 Inchey SwapMy friend <a href="http://indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laurie</a> came up with this great swap. <a href="http://indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laurie</a> and I know each other from several creative workshops we have attended, and I knew some of our mutual friends would be participating too!<br />
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For this particular swap, we were to make six three-inch by three-inch fabric blocks. <br />
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Here was my creation - which was sort of similar to the larger heart I made for Jennifer's swap, but shrunk down and placed on a fabric background for the 3 inch by 3 inch requirement:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmYNncm4d9g/UxErxt7uSLI/AAAAAAAADe8/2oQ0BOlbwpg/s1600/Lisa's+heart+for+laurie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmYNncm4d9g/UxErxt7uSLI/AAAAAAAADe8/2oQ0BOlbwpg/s1600/Lisa's+heart+for+laurie.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our talented friend Hope Ellington came up with this amazing block with a frozen charlotte enclosed in a dimensional heart. She also included an extra little surprise in with her swap - a lovely heart necklace that says, "Be True". She amazes me.</div>
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Just look at this block that was made by our friend <a href="http://snipsandthreads.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tammy</a>. She managed to perfectly squeeze all that detail onto her block. So pretty! I absolutely love the pinks.<br />
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When I took this colorful block out of the package, I knew who made this without even having to look. :) Our sweet friend Linda - this is SO her - and I just love it. It makes me smile.<br />
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This pretty block was made by Lisa. I haven't met her in person yet, but what a lovely piece of art she created, and I'm thrilled to add it to my collection.<br />
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<a href="http://indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laurie</a> made this precious block, and this one is so her, too! I love the vintage fabric, lace, embroidery, and of course, a button. <br />
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Jeanelle embellished this block so sweetly - with the key, beads, buttons, vintage lace and wool. Just beautiful!<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-53389067012926155592014-02-28T18:33:00.001-06:002014-02-28T18:33:59.085-06:00Heart Swap #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Back in early January, my friend Jennifer posted she was going to host a Winter White Heart Swap. The rules were only that the heart should be in some shade of Winter White, and they should be approximately the size of our hand. They could be any medium of our choosing. I couldn't wait to get started!</div>
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This was my contribution for this swap:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNrMmXmRdkc/UxEjACOaS7I/AAAAAAAADew/EzkFkbxy4zA/s1600/lisa%2527s+heart+for+jennifer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNrMmXmRdkc/UxEjACOaS7I/AAAAAAAADew/EzkFkbxy4zA/s1600/lisa%2527s+heart+for+jennifer.jpg" height="279" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /> Look at this beautiful heart by Lonnie Jenck:</div>
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I love this fabric heart with embellishments. I'm not sure who the creator is since the packaging got separated from the hearts. If you recognize who made it - let me know!<br />
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This is a lovely paper heart with beautiful lace embellishment - again, I don't know who created this one. <br />
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This pretty heart has chunky glitter and multi-colored pearls and was made by Jill Sibbald:<br />
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I'm not sure who was the creator of this heart as there was no name attached but it is a paper and chenile heart with a fun "love" tag. <br />
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My friend Jennifer Barnes made this beautiful heart with so many layers and textures:</div>
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Patty Cross came up with this pretty fabric heart adorned with glittered clay wings:<br />
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Another sweet fabric heart, I'm not sure who made this one either~!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r6GhvTPAk0o/UxEi_qo6qvI/AAAAAAAADeg/H3JZhavB3rs/s1600/DSC02269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r6GhvTPAk0o/UxEi_qo6qvI/AAAAAAAADeg/H3JZhavB3rs/s1600/DSC02269.jpg" height="313" width="320" /></a></div>
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This heart came all the way from Germany! Our friend Wanda created this precious heart with a fun glittered heart in the little pocket on front.<br />
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This was a really fun swap to participate in and came at the perfect time after the holidays. <br />
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Next up, I'll post about the 3 inchey swap I took place in, so check back!Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-30927899449109132662014-02-02T07:26:00.001-06:002014-02-02T07:26:58.473-06:00Valentine Soiree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday was <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bobbie's</a> Valentine Soiree at <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">the Paper Crown</a>. It's always such a great time creating beautiful projects and just spending time with friends. Of course, Bobbie made us these cute name tags:</div>
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Look how adorable this treat station is! We never go hungry at these events that is for sure - and do you see all the sweet gift bags? Every single person in class went home with a door prize. We were all in love with the banner adorning the booth and one lucky person got to take it home. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8uN3tDIqqk8/Uu5EKGzH3SI/AAAAAAAADc4/2RgsGnQdwY4/s1600/treat+station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8uN3tDIqqk8/Uu5EKGzH3SI/AAAAAAAADc4/2RgsGnQdwY4/s1600/treat+station.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></div>
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These were our kits. Inside the frame were all the components for making our main project, and the small bag to the left contained materials for making a little party favor. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HoOq6SCE4Rw/Uu5EFMhlUnI/AAAAAAAADcs/5NwULEMNrw8/s1600/class+kits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HoOq6SCE4Rw/Uu5EFMhlUnI/AAAAAAAADcs/5NwULEMNrw8/s1600/class+kits.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's a few of the ladies with their completed projects.<br />
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Me and Shelley:</div>
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It's always a good time crafting at <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">the Paper Crown</a>. Also yesterday we found out the details (and signed up for) <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/2014/01/ask-and-you-shall-receive-paper-crown.html" target="_blank">the Spring Retreat</a>! Click <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/2014/01/ask-and-you-shall-receive-paper-crown.html" target="_blank">here</a> for more details. Space is limited to 30 so if you think you might want to go - sign up now. Believe me, classes fill up very quickly. Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-75703061145410845772014-01-31T08:49:00.003-06:002014-01-31T08:49:41.406-06:00Creating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over the past few years I've seen a year long course offered online at <a href="http://Willowing.org/">Willowing.org</a> called Lifebook. Although I had wanted to, I hadn't signed up because of time constraints. However, this year, even though there won't be more time in my life, I'm determined to <u>make time </u>for creativity.</div>
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One of our first lessons was to take our word for the year and create a Guardian Angel to guide us through the year. My word this year is "Move" and I'm pretty happy with how my angel turned out.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QbOWNGpEMCk/UuuvjrpbPhI/AAAAAAAADcA/kFOrJbGM-F4/s1600/lifebook+lesson+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QbOWNGpEMCk/UuuvjrpbPhI/AAAAAAAADcA/kFOrJbGM-F4/s1600/lifebook+lesson+1.jpg" height="320" width="262" /></a></div>
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Before Christmas, I had taken Christy Tomlinson's Artsy Ornaments class. Tam Laporte, the founder of <a href="http://Willowing.org/">Willowing.org</a> taught a class on making a paper clay doll using a jar as the base. A few months prior to the class, I had a few flood lights that had burned out but I thought that I could use as a base for a doll. I had already covered the bulbs with masking tape paperclay, then I set them aside in my craft room for months! In December, after watching Tam's tutorial, I finally took the time to collage and paint this little doll and I think she came out pretty good.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMUHs9yRKss/UuuvjdAdjWI/AAAAAAAADb8/R1Env90DXZg/s1600/recycled+doll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uMUHs9yRKss/UuuvjdAdjWI/AAAAAAAADb8/R1Env90DXZg/s1600/recycled+doll.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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As January was in full swing, I was feeling kind of sad that I wasn't participating in any Valentine swaps this year. Shortly after that, Jennifer Babcock announced that she was hosting a Valentine heart swap and I think I was one of the first to sign up. :) For the swap, we were to make 10 hearts the size of our hand made from any medium we chose. I made mine from fabric, lace, organza, and embellishments, and my hearts are pictured below. Jennifer is mailing our swapped hearts back to us this week - it will be fun to see all the creativity! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyAKNPndrGs/Uuuv2-Hmm8I/AAAAAAAADcM/66IHYSGzr_E/s1600/2014+heart+swap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyAKNPndrGs/Uuuv2-Hmm8I/AAAAAAAADcM/66IHYSGzr_E/s1600/2014+heart+swap.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then, to my surprise, shortly after Jennifer's swap, my friend Laurie Jackson announced that she was hosting a 3 inchey swap. Mine are almost complete to send off but I won't post pictures until the 3 inchies are actually returned. (Some of the swap participants read my blog).</div>
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Lastly, Danita was offering an online class called "A Doll Story". I believe I've mentioned it on my blog just a few posts back, plus I have a button on my side bar. I'm a tad behind, but here is my doll so far:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J4xl7x3zupE/Uuuv3Gus_aI/AAAAAAAADcQ/-nrFJAr6gHQ/s1600/a+doll+story+doll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J4xl7x3zupE/Uuuv3Gus_aI/AAAAAAAADcQ/-nrFJAr6gHQ/s1600/a+doll+story+doll.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm hoping to catch up on Sunday while Doug is busy watching the Superbowl. Tomorrow, I'm going over to the <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown</a> to attend <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2014/01/key-to-my-heart.html" target="_blank">Bobbie's Valentine Soiree</a> which I know will be fabulous, as always!</div>
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I can't believe that today is the last day of January. It's been quite a month. We're looking forward to moving into February. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-52319566437476278572014-01-13T14:26:00.004-06:002014-01-13T14:26:57.669-06:00A Doll Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm getting excited to start this class on January 20, 2014. If you'd like to join us, click on this <a href="http://adollstory.danitaart.com/" target="_blank">link</a> to register. It's going to be so much fun!</div>
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Oh! and one lucky person will get to take this class for free. :)</div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-69719942195542900772014-01-10T08:21:00.003-06:002014-01-10T08:21:33.123-06:00Goodbye, old friend.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Earlier this week, we said goodbye to Niles. It's a heartbreak as you all can imagine, even though we knew for a while that this day was coming, it's not easy to lose a member of our family. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0XnAhiDix0/Us_7WUC2L4I/AAAAAAAADbU/Usqm2E5lxF4/s1600/IMG_1423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0XnAhiDix0/Us_7WUC2L4I/AAAAAAAADbU/Usqm2E5lxF4/s1600/IMG_1423.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Although this guy was tiny, he was a fighter and that's probably what kept him here with us as long as he was. At his biggest, he was 4.5 pounds, and for the last six months or so, he was a teeny weenie 2.75 pounds. So physically fragile but so mentally tough. Our proud little man.</div>
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When I got Niles almost fourteen years ago, he was so spoiled from the beginning. Here's a picture of him in his little bed, surrounded by all his toys. He had a little smirky face and such a little attitude! If you picked him up to love on him, when you put him down, he's wipe your "stink" off him. He did a little moon walk and it was so funny to watch him. He just wanted to play all the time and chase the tennis ball until he would practically fall over with exhaustion. He'd sleep and get up and do it all over again.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_DIwsexYPw/Us_6CWrI9sI/AAAAAAAADac/FQ8JM5TdWyk/s1600/2nilesbed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_DIwsexYPw/Us_6CWrI9sI/AAAAAAAADac/FQ8JM5TdWyk/s1600/2nilesbed.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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He had a little fur coat with leopard cuffs, (a whole wardrobe actually - jammies included!):</div>
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He loved to curl up anywhere warm: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqh8fIVlXRo/Us_6CUi3SII/AAAAAAAADak/rF3z5KGLhbQ/s1600/nilesonchair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqh8fIVlXRo/Us_6CUi3SII/AAAAAAAADak/rF3z5KGLhbQ/s1600/nilesonchair.jpg" height="320" width="218" /></a></div>
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Or anywhere there was a ray of sunshine:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CtiH4MMYTdQ/Us_5z-6Nz7I/AAAAAAAADaU/y4WKDPHoTdY/s1600/DSC_0895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CtiH4MMYTdQ/Us_5z-6Nz7I/AAAAAAAADaU/y4WKDPHoTdY/s1600/DSC_0895.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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Back in the day, he could run and jump higher than you would ever think, but over time, he just couldn't jump anymore, and running made his little bones ache. </div>
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We almost lost him three years ago when he got attacked by another dog. He had severe injuries and was in shock. We set up a doggie ICU to watch him constantly and to keep the other three dogs away from accidentally hurting him more. We were so afraid when he wouldn't eat anything - not peanut butter, not even a hunk of cheese. Usually, he would sell his soul for cheese, but he wouldn't even look at it. By some miracle, Doug got him to eat "special chicken dinner" and we nursed him back to health. </div>
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Though, after that incident, he started to slow down. His bones really began to ache and we had to start pain medication for arthritis. We teased that he was a little "junkie" because when he would need his pain medication, he would come to the cabinet where I kept his pills. He would take it without even hiding it in cheese and he would go on his way. His eyesight and hearing began to fail, and over time he lost a few teeth. But he was a proud little man and he *loved* his Douglas. When Doug would come home from work, Niles would come out from wherever he was sleeping to greet him with an ear to ear toothless grin and wagging of his little flag tail. <br />
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Doug loved him too. He took such wonderful care of Niles - every night tucking him in and wrapping him in a warmy blanket. Making him special warm roast beef dinner trying to keep him from losing any more weight. We're all going to miss him so much. We gave him the very best life we possibly could and got so much more from him in return. I have a million stories and memories and for the time we had together, I am so grateful. He is so terribly missed.<br />
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I hope he's having fun in Heaven chasing bunnies and getting lots of snuggles from my Mom. I'm sure she's feeding him cream cheese on bagels just like the old days. Goodbye, old friend. I'll see you again. xoxo<br />
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-50169430384843422592013-12-19T16:16:00.002-06:002013-12-19T16:16:39.997-06:002013 White Christmas Tag Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It almost didn't happen this year, but Chris from <a href="http://perfectlyprinted.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Perfectly Printed</a> decided to host our annual White Christmas Tag Swap and I'm so glad she did! Here are the tags I received:</div>
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Created by: Jonnelle</div>
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Created by: Nora Neeley</div>
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Created by: Tammy Kaplan of <a href="http://Snipsandthreads.blogspot.com/">Snipsandthreads.blogspot.com</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJT2M3ZuhLs/UrNoxiSeX5I/AAAAAAAADYI/geSB7g4E2uw/s1600/DSC02216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJT2M3ZuhLs/UrNoxiSeX5I/AAAAAAAADYI/geSB7g4E2uw/s320/DSC02216.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
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Created by: Kimberly Laws of <a href="http://artjoystuff.blogspot.com/">artjoystuff.blogspot.com</a></div>
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Created by:Jeanelle Ricca</div>
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Created by: Leann Shultz</div>
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Created by: Chris of "A Little Creation"</div>
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Created by: Terri Wilkerson of <a href="http://Junqueseeker.blogspot.com/">Junqueseeker.blogspot.com</a></div>
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Created by: Jacqueline Reed</div>
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Created by: Chris of <a href="http://perfectlyprinted.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Perfectly Printed</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AO_kwi-YIQ/UrNo61SU-OI/AAAAAAAADZI/GhTmyeT3nBM/s1600/DSC02223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AO_kwi-YIQ/UrNo61SU-OI/AAAAAAAADZI/GhTmyeT3nBM/s320/DSC02223.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
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Created by: Erica of Golden Egg Vintage</div>
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Created by: Deidra Kidder</div>
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And this is the tag that I made this year for the swap:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8oDmTgTLRU/UrNuMUoCw1I/AAAAAAAADZw/UTcPkniXmwQ/s1600/My+tag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8oDmTgTLRU/UrNuMUoCw1I/AAAAAAAADZw/UTcPkniXmwQ/s320/My+tag.jpg" width="182" /></a></div>
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If you'd like to see the tags for the past years, visit my posts below:<br />
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<a href="http://apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2012/12/2012-white-christmas-tag-swap.html?showComment=1365653838803" target="_blank">2012 White Tag Swap</a><br />
<a href="http://apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-white-christmas-tag.html" target="_blank">2011 My Tag for the Swap</a><br />
<a href="http://apeacefulplacetobe.blogspot.com/2010/12/white-christmas-tag-swap-tags.html" target="_blank">2010 White Christmas Tag Swap</a><br />
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Thanks for stopping by!Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-29759854086145611232013-12-14T21:40:00.002-06:002013-12-14T21:40:43.545-06:00Winter Soiree 2013 I'm feeling much better so today it was over to <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Paper Crown</a> for <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bobbie's</a> Winter Soiree!<br />
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This is the class sample that <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bobbie </a>made to entice us - not that we need any encouraging when we know Bobbie is teaching. In fact, she announced today her upcoming Valentine Soiree and we all signed up without hesitation. We don't even know what the project will be yet, we just know that if you don't sign up early, you'll miss out! And THAT would be unbearable!</div>
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<a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bobbie</a> has an amazing eye for detail. Of course, we couldn't get started without our cute name tags!</div>
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My collection is growing. :)</div>
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And of course, the class kits - packaged so prettily!</div>
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My Snow Queen came out so sweet - I'm in love with her. I haven't gotten a full length picture of her yet as the day got away from me, but here she is riding shotgun on the way home. How cute is she!?!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xjy1PZCO1mE/Uq0hiFeVkNI/AAAAAAAADXk/Zu6_RKbsEvU/s1600/my+queen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xjy1PZCO1mE/Uq0hiFeVkNI/AAAAAAAADXk/Zu6_RKbsEvU/s320/my+queen.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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As a class bonus, we also made these adorable star ornaments:</div>
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It was another wonderful workshop with lots of delicious food, door prizes, fun and friendship. I say it all the time but, we are so fortunate to have such talent here in Oklahoma and such a great group of ladies to spend an afternoon with.Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-38353212729486797142013-12-05T09:46:00.000-06:002013-12-05T09:46:34.126-06:00This happened...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had a little episode over the weekend that ended up with me in the ER and getting to spend the night in the hospital. </div>
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I am on the mend and feeling better and stronger each day. :)</div>
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I'm a little behind on my Christmas crafting, journaling, and decorating but I'm taking it slow and will hopefully get caught up soon. We have bad weather coming in for the next two days so I think I'll have a chance to do a few things around here - with plenty of time to rest too.</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-21597202204189120292013-11-22T12:25:00.000-06:002013-11-22T12:25:06.633-06:00Holly Abston's Ship ClassSo, on Sunday I trekked back over to <a href="http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">the Paper Crown</a> to attend a lace ship class taught by<a href="http://hollyabston.com/" target="_blank"> Holly Abston. </a><br />
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Holly taught this class in California at <a href="http://jennydoh.typepad.com/crescendo/" target="_blank">Jenny Doh's Crescendo</a> studio back in the spring time, and we were SO EXCITED when she agreed to teach it here at home. <br />
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Isn't it so cute??? My ship is about six inches tall in total, but Holly has made them as large as almost two feet tall. <br />
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It was hard to get a good photo, but trust me when I say that my ship is precious!<br />
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I'm definitely going to have to make a few more of these. The hardest part is wrangling the wire which was a bit daunting at first, but once I got the hang of it - no problem. I'm dreaming of all the different laces I can use...<br />
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Sewing on the lace was fun and therapeutic and one of those things that you can sit, talk with your friends, and just relax. It was a perfect class for a Sunday afternoon.<br />
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<a href="http://goodgriefgirdie.typepad.com/blog/2013/11/lace-ships-with-holly.html" target="_blank">Jackie Peters</a> snapped this picture of us after the class. It was fun to have Jackie actually crafting with us since she's always teaching.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn9RGr8k6yM/Uo-ezR2lwSI/AAAAAAAADW4/DdfQhS0Vwrs/s1600/6a012875e93d9c970c019b0148792e970b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn9RGr8k6yM/Uo-ezR2lwSI/AAAAAAAADW4/DdfQhS0Vwrs/s320/6a012875e93d9c970c019b0148792e970b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Speaking of Jackie, hop on over to <a href="http://goodgriefgirdie.typepad.com/" target="_blank">her blog: Good Grief Girdie</a> and check it out. She's been busy creating for tomorrow's Glitter Market. I'll be there first thing to get a good place in line before the market opens. :)</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-41206203919547720242013-11-18T17:23:00.002-06:002013-11-18T17:23:23.155-06:00Let the Christmas Crafting Begin!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here in Oklahoma, we are so very lucky to have a store like the <a href="http://www.papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown </a>where we can go to take some fabulous classes. On Saturday, Bobbie from <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/2013/11/saturday-workshop.html" target="_blank">My Creative Life Diary</a> taught a class with four beautiful projects! Bobbie is so generous in everything she does, and is a genuinely beautiful person, inside and out. Check out her <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> - she does amazing work.</div>
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Our first project was this adorable rosette ornament:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS_LxJEEvcw/UoqcqP1l6lI/AAAAAAAADWI/gYkl5dhbeRw/s1600/Bobbi's+Christmas+Class1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS_LxJEEvcw/UoqcqP1l6lI/AAAAAAAADWI/gYkl5dhbeRw/s400/Bobbi's+Christmas+Class1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Next up we made this fun Christmas notebook to keep our holiday receipts and to jot down important notes for the holiday. Isn't it festive?!?<br />
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We also covered a photo album with these fun papers and embellishments:<br />
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And this - believe me when I tell you that the photos cannot do this beautiful project justice. The finished project is approximately 15 inches tall and is so freakin' adorable! I'm not a fan of hunting or deer heads but this wall hanging is just too sweet for words.<br />
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Can you believe we did all these projects for one class? We all had so much fun.</div>
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Stay tuned - I've got lots of stuff to talk about coming up. I took another fun class on Sunday, I've signed up for Dawn Sokol's Christmas countdown journal class and also for Christy Tomlinson's Ornament class. Can't even wait!</div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-47459505760020416982013-10-27T11:06:00.001-05:002013-10-27T11:06:37.289-05:00Pumpkin King<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday, Bobbie from <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/">mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com</a> taught this fun Pumpkin King Class at the <a href="http://www.papercrownokc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paper Crown</a> in Oklahoma City. Bobbie is not only a great teacher with amazing attention to detail, but she is also one of the nicest people you will ever meet! </div>
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If you can't really tell from this picture, this adorable piece is over two feet tall, and it looks great on my mantle. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btAez_2Mifk/Um025sPFYyI/AAAAAAAADUk/hibX8DCo4ck/s1600/DSC02161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btAez_2Mifk/Um025sPFYyI/AAAAAAAADUk/hibX8DCo4ck/s400/DSC02161.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
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Bobbie also made up cute little "favors" which were kits to make this cute little banner below. Since we had enough time in class, we were able to finish these too. </div>
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Of course, what is a class without an adorable name tag? So sweet!</div>
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Bobbie had a giveaway on her <a href="http://mycreativelifediary-bobbie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> a few weeks back and I was the lucky winner. Isn't this just gorgeous!?! </div>
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I got to see and spend time with my creative friends and had the bonus of coming home with all this cute stuff!<br />
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-11805083247184382052013-10-20T11:58:00.002-05:002013-10-20T11:58:40.353-05:00Halloween Shadow Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went again this year to Ann-Denise's 31 Wishes Event and had a great time. One of the swaps was a Halloween Shadow Box and I sooo wanted to participate but as usual, I waited until the last minute to get my swap done. Even still, I think it turned out pretty cute. If you'd like to see it more closely, click on the picture and get a better view. I'm sorry if it's a bit blurry, but you'll get the idea. ;) </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2FtwsR5TaTg/UmQKxQ2fPXI/AAAAAAAADT8/DDv5wf15WGY/s1600/Halloween+Shadow+Box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2FtwsR5TaTg/UmQKxQ2fPXI/AAAAAAAADT8/DDv5wf15WGY/s320/Halloween+Shadow+Box.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-46888108432363672232013-09-27T20:45:00.002-05:002013-09-27T20:45:31.475-05:00Do you believe in ghosts?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the things I really wanted to do when we went to Charleston was to take a Ghost Tour. There are several tours to choose from, but we waited too long to make a reservation and all we could get was the Dungeon Ghost tour. </div>
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We walked along the streets at night and and our tour guide gave us some history of the city, and at each stop along the way. Our first stop was at the Provost Dungeon.</div>
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The dungeon was very dark with no real lighting to speak of other than our guide's flashlight and some of the street lights filtering in through the windows. There were little vignettes set up to portray what it was like to be underground way back in the day.<br />
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I took several pictures with my iPhone and several with my little camera, and whatever lighting you see is due to the flash lighting up the very dark space.<br />
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The next day when I was looking through these photos, I saw this ghostly figure in the picture below:<br />
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If you enlarge the picture and zoom in on the shadow, you can sort of see a pirates face. I can make out a turban on his head, his eyes, a nose and a little mustache. Can you see it? </div>
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What do you think???</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-85945186548330290942013-09-26T11:00:00.002-05:002013-09-26T11:00:30.679-05:00Charleston Trip - Part One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My investment club just got back from a fabulous trip to Charleston, South Carolina. It's amazing that twelve ladies could actually get our schedules together to make this happen - and even more amazing that on this trip, there was NO DRAMA! It was wonderful!</div>
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Our first night in town, we were lucky enough to have dinner at Husk. We did have to make reservations several months in advance since this place is very difficult to get into. If you are planning a trip to Charleston, I highly recommend this place.</div>
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The menu changes daily and reflects the freshest seasonal ingredients. A few of the more interesting things we tried were compressed watermelon, pig's ear lettuce wrap (I couldn't quite enjoy the pigs ear - it didn't taste bad, I just kept thinking about the treats I used to buy for my dogs), pimento cheese spread (delicious!) and the baked grits. We left Husk feeling so full, I thought we might pop.</div>
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This is a picture of the outside of the restaurant:</div>
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On Saturday morning, there was a farmer's market in the town square adjacent to our hotel. The pink building in the background is the Embassy Suites where we stayed and it used to be the Citadel. Although not fancy, the location was great, the place was clean, and the staff was attentive. The free breakfast was also good. The weird thing was that not all the rooms had windows. Since we only went back there to sleep, it was fine.<br />
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The produce and the flowers at the farmer's market were just spectacular. Look at those peppers! There were plenty of local artists selling their wares, and I know we all had a great time mulling around. <br />
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Charleston has plenty of steeples. Oh, that blue sky and the *perfect* weather!<br />
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Part of our group took an afternoon to head to the beach. We went to Folly Beach which ended up being a great choice. There was a festival going on in the little town, and there was plenty to do (or not to do!) for all of us. Just looking at the beach pictures makes me feel relaxed.<br />
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Folly beach has a huge fishing dock if someone wanted to do some fishing.<br />
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The piers under the dock - I thought this was so cool! Some of the girls got in the water and then sat on the beach. I walked around and took lots of pictures - just soaking it all up!<br />
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We took a carriage ride and learned some history of this beautiful town.<br />
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Tom pulled us with grace and strength. <br />
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Of course, there was shopping. There are several in our group who are hard core shoppers and they were not disappointed in all that Charleston had to offer. The City Market was fun and we all picked up a few things, but the big time shopping was done over on King Street.<br />
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In the next post, I'll share more fun stuff we did. We packed a whole lot of stuff into the time we were there. </div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636610696916653991.post-18852810367474424532013-09-12T17:32:00.002-05:002013-09-12T17:32:21.659-05:00Fun embroidery hoop art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've seen lots of cute embroidery hoop art out there and finally decided to make one. This one was sent to my sister for her birthday - which was yesterday. It turned out so cute, I wanted to keep it for myself. :)</div>
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It feels so good to be in the creative groove!Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17176698364443082869noreply@blogger.com1