Halloween will be here before you know it, and the Senior Design Team & I have whipped up some easy solutions for mass-producing treats this year! Many of you are probably like me, three kids in school multiplied by 15-20 classmates each= dozens upon dozens of treats! It is definitely easy to just send in something store bought, but I think we can all say we enjoy the process of making them a bit more special. And there is also no denying that our kids get excited about having something so unique to give to their friends. Even if you do not have school-age children at home, you may have grandchildren and neighbors that need a little something special.
Whatever your situation, when making multiples of treats like this, the projects need to meet a few guidelines before I'll consider them as a final *prototype*...
actual treat item is inexpensive
ten steps or less to create the project
limited paper crafting supplies needed
as little cutting & adhering as possible
After much *fiddling* I developed this little number...
Isn't it sweet? It may look a bit complicated at first, but it is actually REALLY easy to assemble! I put together a step by step tutorial for you today so you can see just how easy it is!
First, I used our NEW! 4x4 (Medium) Rustic Cream square envelopes as the base for my project. Using things like envelopes and bags as the basis for your treats saves you on assembly time. I punched two stars out of each envelope. The extra large star punch, inserted at the bottom of the envelope...
Next, I used the small star cluster from 2009 Halloween Tags with Summer Sunrise ink to accent around the punch outs.
Here's a sweet little discovery. The medium glassine bags that we carry, fit PERFECTLY inside these envelopes! This is a really neat way to show off the star-shaped openings in your envelope without having to go through the process of adhering anything inside! I trimmed down the glassing bag to 4-inches so there wouldn't be any overhang to worry about.
After inserting the glassine bag into the envelope, I filled it with the candy of my choice. For this particular size project, I used 1/4-cup of candy corn to fill the bag. You could also use any of your favorite small scaled treats, such a s m&m's, Reese's pieces, chocolate covered raisins or anything else you can dream up.
I moistened the flap and sealed the envelope shut. I then punched two holes with my Crop-a-dile at the top. Threaded with Orange Zest stitched ribbon (available September 15th) and tied with a bow.
For the tag, I stamped the star background image from 2009 Halloween Tags set with Orange Zest ink onto Summer Sunrise cardstock. I punched it out with our new EK Success Scalloped Circle Punch. Lastly, I stamped the sentiment with True Black ink on the center of the tag.
To attach the tag in place, I first threaded some Rustic Jute Button Twine under the center of the bow. I then threaded BOTH ends of the twine through the hole in my tag AND through two holes of a Black Vintage Button.
(click above photo for larger view)
I then tied the ends tightly in a knot, which holds everything in place with no adjusting necessary. I just love the way this turned out! If you do the math, this sweet little treat is just as sweet on your wallet!
Now for the amazing creations that the design team developed for this challenge that are not only !
Didn't everyone do an amazing job this month! I hope that one of these amazing, easy to execute treat ideas appeals to you and your budget this Halloween! Thanks for stopping by!
If you are making Halloween preparations and are looking for additional inspiration, here are some archived posts you may want to take a look at too!!!
Really enjoyed getting to sit down and get back at these posts again. There's something so comforting about searching through old photos and reliving moments from long ago. It's like cuddling up with a quilt sewn together with memories. First, today's card...
(click on image above for a larger view)
I decided to ink up Life, it's been a while since I played around with this set. I had forgotten how fun & versatile it is once you start playing with all the different pieces. Sometimes I forget that it is totally okay to stamp colors on colored cardstock, in other words, stepping out of my comfort zone and not gravitating to an expected neutral like white or cream. For this project, I stamped all of the floral elements onto spring moss cardstock. I used a strip of Ripe Avocado In Bloom paper at the edge of the cover. I like how the lines that make up the bloom pattern takes on almost a spring moss look when paired with the coordinating cardstock.
The natural accents along the bottom were created with the large leafy branch (stamped in ripe avocado) and the small single flower (stamped in enchanted evening). The small flower was stamped repeatedly to form almost a *hydrangea* type of bloom. I followed up by adding a small dot with my white gel pen at the center of each of them. I really like the way this finished it off and helped to connect the white of the sentiment block with the rest of the project.
These cards are a bit larger than an A2, measuring in at 6.5 x 4.25 inches. I brought some nice white catalog envelopes at the store the other day that I will be using to mail these.
Now onto who exactly will be receiving today's cards (once again, in no particular order)...
#17: Jen Labrecque
A sister represents one of the few people in your life that know just about everything about you. They experienced your childhood with you, giving them a different perspective than anyone else as to how circumstance and experience shaped you into who you are today. While I have one brother and one sister, I am admittedly closer with my sister due to age and gender. To begin, I thought it would be fun just to share a few different photos that show the contrast between us as little girls vs. all grown up...
Christmas 1983
Christmas 1990
Christmas 1996
1985, Jen & I at the beach on a warm sunny afternoon.
2003, Jen & I at the same beach watching over Owen & Hannah.
Summer 1987, Jen timidly approaches a canoe.
Summer 2006, Jen captains a schooner in Casco Bay.
Jen and I had so much fun together when we were small. Our own little land of make believe. Tea parties in our playhouse, building forts underneath the snow-laden boughs of our backyard pine trees, building Barbie wonderlands that took up our entire bedroom floor, dressing up and pretending to be fashion models and rock stars.We had a large open field on the other side of the woods behind our house, which we liked to think of as our own version of Little House on the Prairie. All of these happy memories are so, so, so precious to me. Like little splashes of color that embellish the canvas of my childhood. It wouldn't have been the same growing up without her and I count it among my blessings that I got to live the first years of my life by her side.
Flashing forward to today, circumstances have allowed us to have the opportunity to reconnect and reminisce about those good 'ol days. Jen's current job is with a luxury cruise line affiliated with National Geographic, visiting unique foreign locations world wide. As most ship duty goes, she works several consecutive weeks and then in turn gets extended time off. She has been dedicating some of her off-ship time living with us and it has been so fun to be with her for these extended amounts of time. We hadn't been together for long periods like that since we were teenagers! It's amazing to laugh together at funny memories, cry together at movies (we both LOVE movies!), cook each other our tried & true recipes and share favorite shopping finds. Having someone in my life that has known me this long, who has had many of the same childhood experiences as I have, makes me feel so connected. She knows all the background, no need to explain the history behind anything. That sister-to-sister connection I feel is so special, so real, so grounded. I only wish that everyone could have the same experience, because it is nothing short of amazing.
#18: Wendy Sometimes someone walks into your life that you can't imagine ever walking out. A true blue best friend. Someone who after every phone conversation, every chat over coffee, you find that you have even more in common. Someone who can finish your sentences and read your thoughts. Someone that knows if you're putting on a smile to cover up the hurt. Someone who loves your children as much as their own. Someone you can always call when you need a good listener, no mater how late at night it is.
Wendy is that someone for me. We met at a playgroup when I was pregnant with Hannah. Our first common ground was that we were both originally from *up north* and now lived down south because of our husbands career choices. We hit it off instantly, finding that we both loved to be crafty. Sewing was the thing of the moment at that time for the two of us. Which carried on into other things such as soap making (insert giggle here! Yes, that's for you Wendy! May Christmas of 2005 rest in peace!) and most importantly, stamping!
(Autumn 2003, our first craft fair booth shortly after final set-up)
One of my fondest memories was when we decided to try our hand at the craft fair circuit. We worked for weeks preparing for our first show. I stitched some purses and created a few stationery sets and card collections. Meanwhile, Wendy put together the same, along with some custom magnets and votive holders. We pulled nearly an all-nighter the morning of the show, so needless to say we were exhausted before we even arrived!
It took a few hours for us to unpack and arrange everything within our booth space to our liking (which turned out to be a fabulous prelude to future CHA preparations!). When the show finally opened we were happy to see that there was quite a bit of foot traffic, but unfortunately not many who actually purchased anything from us. You see...how should I say this... we were a bit too sophisticated for our market. Let me put it this way, the booth directly next to us had the best selling item of the show with constant purchases taking place. That *specialty* item was nothing other than redneck wind chimes, created from empty beer cans. I mean, how could we possibly compete with that?
So we left the show with a few lessons learned, but also a stronger bond. What an experience! And I cannot imagine doing it with anyone other than Wendy. We have been best friends for several years now, through thick and thin, out-of-state moves and everything in between. I value her friendship, her opinions and most of all her advice. Thank you, Wendy, for keeping me grounded, for always being there, for being that *someone* that I cannot live without.
#19: Julie Heskamp
Many of you have probably heard the story of how Julie, Jane and I met, forming the very beginning of Papertrey Ink. But it always bears repeating.
Mother and daughter duo, Jane & Julie, assist in the running of the family owned printing company in Cincinnati. Many times over the last decade, they had talked about one day printing their own line of stationery. They had made inquiries with a few local graphic designers, but had yet to meet someone who shared their vision. They decided to try an unconventional route, and seek out an artist whose work was closely aligns with their vision, rather than one whose qualifications fit more conventional criteria.
Julie, being an avid reader of Paper Crafts magazine, reviewed back issues and found that my projects had a signature style that spoke to her. She took a chance and sent me a note through a link on my blog. I was cautiously optimistic after receiving the email. A few phone calls later, we took a bold step and set up a meeting. Papertrey Ink's first official meeting took place in my dining room. Although the three of us had just met, our roles within the company that was about to be formed fell into place perfectly. Our excitement and passion for our company were eminent from conception.
So, as I said above, we started our company with a selection of stationery and pre-printed cards (which can still be found on our website HERE!) I'll never forget the night that Julie suggested we release a stamp set every month, just to see how it goes. I flat out said "NO!". I was a complete novice with the graphic design software AND how would I come up with ideas EVERY month? She kept insisting that it be something we venture into, and eventually I reluctantly agreed. Funny how that whole *trial* period worked out and ended up developing into the main portion of the company!
What started out as a venture into stationery turned into an expansion of the passion I have for stamping. Julie had the foresight to see that this was a direction we needed to go in. I put so much pressure on myself, I probably never, ever would have jumped into the stamp market if it wasn't for her. So if you enjoy your monthly Papertrey stamp releases, you have Julie to thank!
Not only does Julie know how to push me just when I need it most, she always knows just what to say. She is FANTASTIC to brainstorm with, we do it on practically a weekly basis. When we talk about the business, we could go on for hours with ideas and concepts to develop. Without her taking that chance, so long ago, and emailing me, a complete stranger. Without her suggesting a break into the stamp market. Without her dedication, Papertrey would not be what it is today. Therefore *I* wouldn't be where I am today. So thank you, Julie, for sending that email, for pushing me to my best potential and most of all, thank you for being my friend.
#20: Gayle Labrecque
(myself along with several of my cousins during Christmas Eve festivities, as my aunt looks on from the couch)
You know how it is when you are very young, and you have an adult in your life that you want to emulate when you're older? Someone that you look up to. Whenever you're around them, you secretly find yourself saying "I want to be just like her when I grow up."
Aunt Gayle is what I've called her my whole life. My Dad's sister. I got to interact with her most at the Christmas Eve celebrations that my grandparents hosted each year. She was always very crafty and she would usually bring whatever her latest *hobby* was along with her to work on throughout the day's events. Knitting, quilting, wool hooking, embroidery, etc... She always gave people the most beautiful homemade gifts too, which I would just eye with wonder and awe. I just KNEW I wanted to make beautiful things like that when I grew up! Little did she know that those heartfelt gifts and crafty endeavors would later on inspire a little girl to develop an entire career.
She was always so kind. I specifically remember her working on a very detailed embroidery project of some kind. So many tiny stitches. I, at 8-years old, asked her how she had the patience to do all that. I'll never forget what she said...
"You can do anything if you just take it one step at a time."
That has pretty much been my mantra my entire life. You can achieve anything, ANYTHING at all, even if it is beyond your wildest dreams, just by taking my aunt's advice. Just break the goal down into small manageable pieces, and take it one step at a time.
(Aunt Gayle helping to design & create place cards for my wedding over ten years ago.)
Another favorite memory of my aunt is the help she gave me with wedding preparations. She took the time out of her extremely busy schedule to help design & create the 75 place cards needed for the reception. Not only did I appreciate her generosity, I thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with her as well. She is such a wonderful sweet person, and I love any chance I get to interact with her.
(the handmade candles along with the floral arrangements Aunt Gayle prepared for the ceremony)
She happened to be into candle making at the time and made our unity candles from scratch. They were elegantly simple & beautiful. She knew just what to take into account when creating something along the lines of our style. Aunt Gayle also arranged all of the flowers on the candle table along with the accents woven along the edge of the arbor where David and I would stand during the ceremony. It all turned out perfect. I couldn't have done it any better myself. I was truly blessed to have her help that day.
(Aunt Gayle & shucking corn over conversation during my last visit in 2007)
Whenever we get the chance to go back home to Maine and I visit with my father's side of the family, one of the things I look forward to most is seeing Aunt Gayle again. To talk about what kind of crafts she is into at the moment. Her warm smile. The way she dotes on all three of my children. I just love her to death! I am so thankful that she unknowingly instilled those first crafty inspirations in my head when I was so young. I don't know if I would be where I am today without that type of role model to look up to. Thank you, Aunt Gayle, a hundred times over, for everything.
#21: Jennifer Ellefson
I regret that I do not have a single photo of Jenn and I together. You see, we've only met once in person, but I feel as though I have known her for nearly a lifetime. We met at a CHA, long, long ago when I was still with Paper Crafts magazine. She was very sweet and her contagious smile instantly made an impression on me.
Flash forward a few years later and Jenn is an irreplaceable asset, to not only me, but Papertrey as well. By her willingness to take on new responsibilities each month along with a dedication to complete all tasks thoroughly and skillfully, she has built a repertoire with us that cannot be expressed in words.
Not only do I value Jenn as an employee, I value her judgment & opinions as my equal. I don't hesitate to contact her for advice whenever I am making big decisions. She is always objective, honest & thorough, which is just invaluable to me.
She's also a friend. Jenn has the uncanny sense to just listen when I need to talk, and knows when to interject advice or opinions when I need them most. It is unbelievably reassuring knowing I have someone there, covering all these bases at once. So, thank you Jenn, for being of such importance in my life & always being there to help me in any way you can. Your help and support is just what this girl needed!
#22: Dawn McVey
(Dawn & I the first time we met)
There we are! Two peas in a pod from the day we met! World Card Making Day in Kansas City! Dawn was so cute that day. All smiles. She brought some of her card samples along to show me and I couldn't believe the caliber of her work. Not only that, but I appreciated her style and felt we were a lot alike. I gave her my phone number that day, and the rest is history!
(CHA Summer, Chicago 2008)
She called me a few weeks later and we chatted pretty extensively. Let's put it this way, EVERY time Dawn and I get on the phone together, you're talking at least 60 minutes of chit chat. AT LEAST! We've been known to run into the 2-3 hour time frame as well! I loved being on the sidelines to watch Dawn blossom into the industry favorite that she has become. From her publishing achievements to the development of her successful blog, to her popular stamp line through Papertrey. She has done so much in such a short amount of time. I'm just so darn proud!
One of my favorite memories is of the CHA Summer Chicago show we went to last year together. She was like a deer in headlights the entire show, as it was her first *real* look at the industry that she had grown to love so much in just a few short months. It was an absolute pleasure to see everything anew through her point of view those few days. It inspired me and allowed me to experience CHA in a whole new light. Many late night talks with her were one of the highlights of the trip. We talked about anything and everything, and it was so special, so memorable for me. We just *click* co well together.
(CHA Summer, Orlando, 2009)
So, how do you thank someone for being themselves? And in turn bringing out the best in you? How do you repay someone for helping you to see the bright side of life, seeing the glass half-full, not empty? I find myself calling Dawn often, especially when I need a pick-me-up. She's just as good as sunshine on a cloudy day. Thank you, Dawn, for leaving a lasting impression on me. For being the positive energy in my life. Thank you for being your thoughtful, sweet self. I'll never forget you, my texting, iPhone loving, flip flop wearing, raspberry fizz concepting, potato soup eating, stamping friend! :)
Well, that wraps it up for today, folks! I'll have more for you within the next few days! Thanks for sharing in my continued journey!
has been a bit crazy the last few days and I haven't had a chance to continue with my birthday blessings posts as originally planned. These aren't the types of posts I like to rush, I like to be able to take the time I need to fully think through what I want to say. I am working on the next installment and hope to have it up sometime tomorrow. Thanks for stopping by!
Today's post is going up a bit later than I originally planned. Had a lot to say, a lot of photos to sort through to find the right ones to tell my story. I hope you enjoy what I've put together to share today and perhaps you're able to take something away from it in some small way...
First, today's card. Switching gears to celebrate some of the important men in my life, so a more masculine styled project was in order. Stamps sets include Beyond Basic Borders(tree) and Mother(sentiments, proving that the set doesn't need to be used just in celebration of mothers!). Ripe Avocado Bitty Box Basics paper is used as a fun way to balance out the bottom of the card.
It uses the tree image from Beyond Basic Borders in a fun & unique way. I stamped it onto Ripe Avocado cardstock with Dark Chocolate ink. I then used our new EK Success scalloped circle punch to punch out the top portion of it. I stamped the tree a second time on my Vintage Cream cardstock, again in Dark Chocolate ink. I then was able to line up the scalloped circle on top of the Vintage Cream, lining up the tree images. The scalloped circle is adhered in place with foam tape for dimension.
The sentiment was stamped in Vintage Cream ink onto a strip of Ocean Tides cardstock. I thought this sentiment was just perfect for the people I decided to celebrate today. You'll see exactly what I mean when you read on below...
But first, I've been sharing a lot of photos from my early childhood the past few days. How about a few from the teenage years? Embarrassing as they may be!
Freshman year. Oh my goodness, the hair!!! A perm, Sun-In, AquaNet hairspray and lots of teasing. (Can't do more dammage than that!)
Field hockey season, junior year. (I'm the second from the right)
Junior prom, pulling a double date with my friend Dawn.
A headshot taken by a friend during my senior year, in photography class. (Four years later and STILL bad hair!)
Senior prom with my double date partner once again, Dawn.
and last but not least, one more shot from my senior prom, with my dear, dear friend Elaine.
Now onto today's card recipients, otherwise known as my ongoing list of birthday blessings (in no particular order)...
#13: David
It all started with a boy catching a garter...
and a girl catching a bouquet. Really, that's how we met. Just like a fairy tale. Except this doesn't necessarily have a simple happily ever after, it's my never-ending story of happiness.
(David & I shortly after we began dating, 1998)
How do you put into words the impact of meeting your soul mate has on your life? We instantly clicked. We were together every spare moment from the day we met at that wedding. We had so much in common. So many shared dreams for family and the future.
(David & I enjoying a perfect island afternoon, 1998)
Not to borrow a line from the movies, but he completed me. It was if the empty feeling that was deep inside had been filled. The constant search to find something that was "missing" from my life had ended. David has always been that thoughtful, romantic kind of guy that a girl dreams about meeting. Sweeping me off my feet. He's always taken the time to make sure I know how strongly he feels about me, how much love his heart holds. So many special surprises and memorable gifts. And poetry... one of my favorites...
Once in a while you get lucky
and the most beautiful woman looks your way.
You spend the evening dancing;
she takes your breath away.
Once in a while you get lucky
and you date that special girl.
You look forward to the next time you'll see her;
wish you could buy her diamonds & pearls.
Once in a while you get lucky
and you get that perfect roommate.
She brightens up those cloudy days;
makes you think what wonders await.
Once in a while you get lucky
and you get down on one knee.
Share a night of deep feelings
and continue on your journey.
Once in a while you get lucky
and you've married the greatest wife.
She brings out the best in you;
brings out the very best in life.
Once in a while you get lucky
and you're given the gift of life.
Mommy and Daddy take over
in place of just husband and wife.
One day you may get lucky
and one of these will happen to you.
I've had the privilege of having every one
and it's much more than any man is due.
(David & I in New York City, 2000)
Of course, I could go on for hours about how David has influenced my life. But I thought today I would just focus on two of my favorite moments. Moments that are practically frozen in time for me. I can remember every second, every detail, as if they were yesterday,
(exchanging rings at our wedding, August 7th, 1999)
I thought I would start with the dance.
Of course, every girl dreams of the perfect wedding. Pair this with the fact that I'm a perfectionist and, well, I'm sure you can envision how much planning went into the event. One thing I had always dreamed of was having an official elegant and polished dance to perform for *our* first dance on the big day. We took our song to a ballroom dance instructor and she designed a routine just for the two of us. We attended lessons every week faithfully, for months leading up to the wedding day. Many nights, we pushed the living room furniture against the walls and practiced even more. After hours upon hours of rehearsing, we finally felt ready.
I will never, ever, ever forget when David took my hand and the first notes of our song began floating through the air. It was a beautiful night for an outdoor wedding. The lights twinkled all around the white tent that sheltered our reception. Our friends & family gathered around the parquet dance floor anxiously awaiting what might happen in the next few moments. And then it began.
The carefully orchestrated movements, the music blending effortlessly with our steps, David swinging me out and then in. The dance had felt so special when we were rehearsing those weeks before the wedding, but this, THIS moment was so different, so magical. I can still remember the way all the layers of my dress swirled around my feet and the way David's cuff links caught the light just right when his arm was held overhead. And the way that his eyes sparkled, dazzled with the once in a lifetime magic we were experiencing. The routine felt so natural, such a part of us. Our guests seemed to disappear for just a few of those moments. That dance was like the official crossing. One path ending and a new path beginning with my new husband.
The second most influential moment is a bit predictable in a way, but I don't think anyone can argue quite how pivotal it really is.
(David & Owen in those first few moments)
I had seen David interact with some of his nieces & nephews during the year in which we dated. But I had never seen him with a baby. I had never really had any experience with a baby either, so we were both a bit apprehensive and nervous as we waited those last few weeks before Owen's birth. And then all of a sudden he was here. The labor & delivery seemed to have taken a lifetime, but now that he was here, it seemed like such a small price to pay for such a blessing to enter our lives. I was exhausted, and I dozed off shortly after delivery for a quick nap. I remember waking up, and before even opening my eyes, the quiet stillness of the room almost seemed out of place in comparison to the hustle & bustle that had transpired just a few short hours ago. As I slowly opened my eyes, there was David, holding Owen for the first time. The only sound was a quiet creaking of the rocking chair moving slowly back and forth, back and forth. Owen was tightly swaddled with his little knit hat on to keep him warm. David was comfortably reclined into the plush cushions of the chair. Owen was tucked into the crook of his arm with his hands acting as a protective hammock underneath the newly swaddled baby boy.
He was so comfortable with his new role. Like he was made for this. David was studying every detail of this new life he had helped bring into this world. Watching the rise and fall of his small chest. Owen's mouth opening and closing slightly with the rhythm. His eyelashes long and dark against his pink cheeks. In that moment I felt an all new type of love blossom inside of my heart. I fell in love with David all over again, entranced with this side of him that I had yet to see before that day. Watching him bond with our newborn son, in such a gentle and compassionate way made me realize just how lucky I was. How this family we were starting was going to be something special. It made me think about the fact that there was no one else on earth that I would want to experience this with.
David and I have gone on to have countless other moments that are etched in both of our memories. I am sure there are even more to come. David knows me better than anyone else and we have experienced so much. He has influenced every decision, every action. Because everything I do, I do for him, for our family. Thank you David, for being my partner, my best friend, my everything.
#14: Dad
(Dad & I playing basketball, love the contrast of our heights, 1980)
A bit about my dad. He's tall. Really tall. When I was younger, I always thought of him as a giant of sorts. Someone that could save me from almost anything.
(playing ice hockey on our backyard pond, Christmas Day 1993)
He's got a fun-loving crazy side, which is my favorite thing about him. He'll try almost anything once. He's had an amazing array of hobbies that would put anybody else's list to shame. From dog sledding (yes, we had an entire team of dogs living at our house at one point) to gold panning. White water rafting, fur trapping, bear hunting, model airplane flying, antique tractor collecting, fly fishing, black powder rifle shooting,ice hockey, raquet ball, scuba diving, sailing, beer brewing, sap collecting & boiling for maple syrup, logging, duck hunting, fly tying, kayaking, need I go on? (You know, maybe that's where I get it from?) He was always one to be spontaneous, to make us laugh, to turn something ordinary into an adventure. That's my Dad.
(Dad, along with my bridesmaids, walking me to the aisle)
He's not one for words, so the single most influential moment that I will always treasure is my wedding day. David & I got married on my grandparents farm in Maine. It was an outdoor ceremony in August and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. I was so nervous when it suddenly became time to actually begin the main event. I had dressed & prepared in my grandparents house, so my dad came to the front door to collect me and make the short walk to the hillside aisle that had been created. He held my arm while my bridesmaids kept an eye on my dress & train.
(The moments before he gives me away)
The beginning of the grassy aisle, where I was supposed to enter on cue with the music, was hidden by a small grove of trees. My dad and I stood behind those trees as we waited for the rest of the wedding party to walk the aisle between the rows of crisp white folding chairs that held all of our guests. My arm was still tucked in his when he took his rough work-worn hand and put it over mine. I was in the process of breaking down mentally, on the verge of tears because of all the emotions I was feeling, my stomach in knots. And I think he sensed this. He bent over and begin quietly telling me things that he had never said before. Like he was proud of me. So incredibly proud to be walking me down the aisle. He knew I would be so happy. David was such a wonderful man. My dad told me that he loved me. That he was so happy to be there with me in that moment.
(the sweet little kiss he placed on my cheek before handing me to David)
And then we embarked on that walk. One slow step at a time (slow because it was all I could do to not trip over my dress!). And when we reached the front to where David was waiting, the sun was just beginning to set behind the hill. Then my dad prepared to hand me over to my soon-to-be husband. Before he let me go, he kissed me, his little girl, lightly on the cheek. My Dad turned slowly and went back to the aisle, taking a seat next to my mother. In that moment, for the first time in my life I felt confirmation of love from my dad, something I had never really experienced with him before in such a bold & direct way. I hadn't known it, but it is something I had been looking for all through high school, and now I had gotten it. It was influential with the relationship we would have in the future. Something I feel so lucky to have in my life. Thank you for stepping out of your comfort zone that day, Dad, and putting into words the way you felt. I remember every word and replay them often in my head and will never, ever forget them.
#15: David Labrecque (a.k.a. Grampie)
(Grampie in his element, aboard his lobster boat, taking in the day's catch)
Some people in this world make you realize how it's the simple things that make life worth living. Like a good meal surrounded by family and friends. The power of a good laugh. Making a house a home. That person in my life is Grampie.
(peeking at Grampie from the outside in, during Christmas Eve celebrations)
I'll always remember Christmas Eves spent at my grandparent's house. When we walked up those front steps, he was always the one to open the door and give us a welcoming hug. The warmth that emanates form their house is a testament to not only the coziness of the little log cabin in the woods they have built, but the strong family ties that they hold so close. Just looking back on all those holidays, allows me to be transported back to all those feelings, most of all a sense of belonging, a sense of love.
(I'll always remember his laugh!)
Grampie loves to laugh, loves to poke fun, loves to joke around. His heavy Maine accent makes him even more endearing to me today, now that I have moved down south and can notice it prominently.
(the paper mache loon I made for him as a gift in grade school)
One thing he tries not to let show all the time though, is his sentimental side. This area is where he has probably influenced me most. I'm sure you're wondering exactly what the photo above is depicting. Believe it or not, it's a loon. For those of you that may not be familiar with some of the wildlife in Maine, loons are a bird that can be found in many of the lakes around the area. My grandfather loves them because of the beautiful calls they make, particularly at sunset. I really wanted to make him something special for Christmas when I was in elementary school, so in art class I created a paper-mache version of his favorite bird. Admittedly, it's quite... unique! In the camp they used to own, it sat on a specially constructed shelf for many years. Now it resides comfortably in their home year-round. The fact that he has hung onto that little paper-mache sculpture all these years means SO much to me. He taught me that family and the gifts they give, material or not, are more precious than gold.
#16: Wendell Plum (a.k.a. Grandpa)
(Grandpa, just the way I like to remember him)
A pipe hanging precariously from the corner of his mouth. Clothes that have various stains, tears & other signs of a hard days work. A canvas hat perched atop his head to protect his ears from the sun. This is how I like to remember my grandfather whenever I reflect on him.
(Grandpa & I standing in front of one of our summer projects, which I designed and he helped to execute. 1996)
He's super smart. Retired from the engineering field. He loves to learn, loves to research, loves to absorb. It's a challenge to ask him about something that he doesn't know the answer to. He's curious, enjoys figuring out how things work. He's always said "Never stop learning".
Through living his life in this way, he has taught me to do the same.
(Grandpa in his element, sailing in Casco Bay)
I love Grandpa in a soft, understated way. My bond with him is so special, so dear to my heart. You see, he is one of kind. There in no one else, anywhere, that comes close to the type of man he is. He's kind & generous, but doesn't want anyone to know it. He inspires me to be a better person. He's one of the most active, energetic men in his age group (which I will discreetly not disclose!). Full of life, ambition. He never takes life for granted; just grabs it by the horns and won't let go. Lives every day like it's the best day. ALL of these life lessons are something that I carry with me, in an imaginary pocket, keeping them safe and close at hand as reminders of what he has taught me. Little souvenirs from all of the long summer walks, the in depth conversations. Grandpa, I love you more than I can express in words and I want you to know how much you have impacted my life. I will hold onto everything you have taught me and make you proud, passing those lessons onto my children as well. You are one of my biggest role models.
Four important people today. Four long excerpts that you hopefully enjoyed reading. I don't tell these four men in my life often enough how special they are, or how much I love them. Sometimes we might think that they don't care, that men are trying to be unattached and not let feelings or emotions show. But that's not really the case. I challenge you to send a strong male figure in your life a card today. Tell them how you really feel. Remind them why you care about them so much. Reflect on your happiest memories with them. You don't need a holiday to do these types of things. Today is now, so why wait?
Thank you so much for all of your birthday wishes yesterday! I feel so blessed to have so many online friends & readers who took the time to wish me happiness. It meant SO much to me as I read through them all and felt the warmth & love you put into your words. So thank you, to each and every one of you!
David & I went out last night and had a fabulous dinner at one of our favorite Nashville restaurants. We got the best table in the house and had an amazing waiter to top it all off. Getting to spend quiet time with David like that, paired with wonderful food & wine was the perfect ending to such a special day.
Now onto today's cards. I used a few of my favorite Papertrey classics.
I used Background Basics: Retro with our Fresh Snow ink for the background stamped onto the kraft card base. The leaf image is from Beautiful Blooms. And last but not least, a sentiment from Heart Prints Sentiments. I used some scalloped scissors to trim the top of the spring moss mat. A bit of random stitching on the sewing machine finished everything off.
The flower was created by stacking individual punched aqua mist cardstock blooms. The punches are the Retro Flower Punches from EK Success (I used the Whale of Punch, Medium, Paper Shaper) . I used a glue dot to attach a small Aqua Mist Vintage Button to the center. To add a bit of dimension, I curled all the petals slightly with my fingertips.
For some fun blast from the past photos, today thought I would share some family shots from throughout my childhood...
1983
1988
1990
2004
So fascinating to see how everyone changes over the years. When my siblings & I were young, who knew the different paths we would be on today?
Now onto today's card recipients...
#7: Mom
(Mom holding me shortly after my birth)
It doesn't even seem like my mother should be on this list, because she's off the charts. I mean, how much more influential can you possibly be, after bringing me into this world to begin with!
(my favorite photograph of my mother)
I think the best place to start is with sharing a bit about what I love about my mom. This photo is exactly how I like to remember her. She is ALWAYS smiling, and she has the BEST smile. The kind that just makes her entire face radiate with happiness. I loved being the cause of that smile when I was growing up. It just made you feel like all was right with the world to have your mother smile down upon you like that.
(Mom holding me as a toddler)
She has been (and is) very nurturing. There's always been so many cuddles & hugs. So much love, patience and understanding. Kind words at just the right time.
(Mom bathing my newborn baby brother, my sister in blue and I in red, supervising)
She's always worked so hard to keep our family happy & healthy.
She chose to be a stay-at-home mom, even after gaining her bachelor's
degree in college. Insisting upon family dinners every night. Fresh
baked goodies from the oven on occasion when we got home from school. Every day I strive to try to be the mother she was.
(my mom & I on my wedding day)
She has always provided guidance in subtle ways, that I didn't even realize until I was much older. Some lessons weren't REALLY learned until much later in life, where I was able to see situations from a different point of view. Sometimes I have found my own solutions to some of my biggest problems by just thinking about a situation or scenario that happened when I was a child.
(Mom holding Owen as a baby)
In turn, getting to see her play the role of grandmother to MY children has been so rewarding, eye-opening and touching. A bond was formed that we never had before. A common ground, where she had been through what I was going through. Offering advice & most of all empathy. Also, because of the relationship with my children, I now know how my mother feels about me. I know why she said or did some things that I wasn't happy about at the time. I guess that level of understanding comes with age and maturity really. But what an epiphany. Knowing that there is someone in this world that loves me THAT much, unconditionally is truly inspirational and something that can give anyone strength to get through anything. If that's not influential, I don't know what is.
#8: Emily Block
(Emily, far left, and I with friends at CHA)
How to laugh. How to not take life (or business) too seriously. That's what Emily has taught me. I'll never forget the day we met. It was at a CHA show a few years ago. We bonded immediately and made arrangements to get together later that night with a bunch of other mutual friends. We talked non-stop about business, about the industry, about cocktails and SO much more. It was the beginning of something really special which I hold close to my heart, even today.
One of the best things about our relationship is that even if we go months without speaking or years without seeing each other in person, we always pick up right were we left off. We have so much in common, yet so many personality traits that are opposite. It makes it fun to learn each others points of view on certain situations and opportunities. I look to her for both professional and personal advice. For a good laugh when I need to loosen up. And most of all, someone to celebrate my triumphs. Thank you for always being there, for being understanding, for being open & honest, for ALWAYS being you and teaching me how to be the same. You've made such a difference in my life, probably more than you will ever know.
#9: Ms. Joanna Hopkins
(a grainy yearbook photo of the art department from my high school, including Ms. Hopkins)
My high school art teacher, albeit somewhat unorthodox when you think about teachers, was one of the people in my life that taught me the most about art and it's many foundations. She wore Birkenstocks & socks with an endless array of Beatles t-shirts and long flowing gypsy-like skirts. She didn't have the type of personality that you would bond with emotionally. She was very distant and a bit overbearing. But she KNEW what she was teaching and HOW to teach it, and really, that's what matters most. I have never had any formal art training other than what I received under her guidance while in high school. So everything I know today is based on things she taught me so many years ago.
(an excerpt from the recommendation letter Ms. Hopkins wrote on my behalf)
One of the most influential things she did is a memento I still have to this day, tucked into my top desk drawer. A letter of recommendation she wrote on my behalf during the last months of my senior year, 1997. She wrote about specific attributes she thought that I had to offer to the art world. The strengths she felt I possessed for this field. Gosh, I can still remember reading that letter for the first time, just like it was yesterday. It was my very first affirmation. An actual hold in your hand, official statement from a professional, who felt that I had what it took to pursue art in some way or another as a field. A real honest-to-goodness art career. It was like I had gotten *official* permission to dream big. That if I worked hard enough, I could really do something with what I loved.
That letter will ALWAYS be one of my most prized possessions. I have Ms. Hopkins to thank for inspiring the very first nuggets of motivation. She helped me to believe in myself and build my self confidence as a young woman who was about to step out into the real world a bit unsure of herself.
#10: Cath Edvalson
My dearest, dearest Cath. Where to begin? So we met under very um....er....shall we say interesting circumstances. I had already been working for Paper Crafts magazine for some time before Cath got hired on. It's so funny to look back on it now, but we actually had a bit of a communication issue to start, as she was trying to let me know of some revisions to make as interpreted by her boss. Normally, that type of first meeting would lead to an unstable beginning for a relationship, but not with Cath & I.
(an example of some of my contributions to the PC101 column)
We worked together on the PC101 column every month for nearly 2 years. We would brainstorm the topics and how to execute the visual interpretation of the theme. I've never had so much fun collaborating with anyone on projects as I did with Cath. We were in sync, totally in tune. We knew what the other meant before they said it. We visualized the same end result, just from a brief verbal discussion.
Having the opportunity to work with someone of Cath's caliber has been one of the biggest honors of my career. She's passionate about the industry. She's genuinely kind & caring. She offers compliments & criticism in such a specific, personal way, even when acting as your editor, that you really feel as if she is in tune with your style and technique. She's so good at trend-watching (as demonstrated on her Moxie Fab blog and monthly article in Paper Crafts). She's funny. Like really, really funny (which is evident on her personal blog too). Whenever we get together for even just a few hours, the corners of my mouth begin to ache because of all the laughter that takes place between us.
Cath has been so influential in my life because she helped me to see what the definition of motivation & passion. So thank you, Cath, for helping me to see these traits in living color.
#11: Georgie Stimson
(Georgie & her daughter Norah)
Sometimes you never know how one small gesture can really impact someone's life. Something Georgie did many years ago, a small random act of kindness, is a memory I hold near and dear to my heart even to this day. She may not even remember it, but I certainly do and will never forget it!
(the prize winning page, featured in the May 2003 issue of Creating Keepsakes)
When David and I first moved down south from New England, I was becoming more and more interested in exploring all the possibilities in the world of scrapbooking & paper crafting. I was thrilled to find a local scrapbook store to got to. It was like a whole new world had opened up to me. Georgie Stimson, owner of Memories in Bloom, was quick to extend kindness and provide any help I needed whenever I shopped there. After some encouragement and a few gentle pushes, Georgie convinced me to start entering some of my work into contests. Once particular contest I entered in the beginning of 2003 was sponsored by Frances Meyer Inc., a popular sticker & paper manufacturer back in the day. A few months after entering, I was notified that I had won first place along with a prize of $2,000!
(the card from Georgie that I still treasure today)
The very first person I called with my news was Georgie. She was so excited for me and congratulated me wholeheartedly over the phone that day. A few days passed and when David brought in the mail delivered that day, I was surprised to see something from the store. It was a card from Georgie and the crew. Congratulating me once again on my win and wishing me continued success for the future. Having someone you look up to provide you with such words of encouragement is such a blessing. Knowing that there's someone out there that believes in you, reassuring you that you are going down the right path, is just the kind of stamina one needs to keep going, keep reaching, keep dreaming. I refer to this card often, when I am struggling or in need of a pick-me-up. Every time I read it, it's like Georgie is standing beside me, telling me to continue on because she'll always be there believing in me.
#12: Martha Stewart
(the cover of my very first issue of Martha Stewart Living)
I'll never forget one summer afternoon in 1998. I was working in Portland during the college break, staying at our family's summer island cottage. I had just returned from a trip to town where I had picked up a new magazine. I had heard of Martha Stewart before in media murmurings here and there but didn't really know much about her. After settling into lunch in the living room, I began flipping through my very first issue of Martha Stewart Living. As soon as my eyes absorbed all of the simple beauty on that very first page, I knew I was hooked. For the very first time in my life, I had found someone, something that I identified with when it came to my style. It was like someone had reached inside my head, into the depths of my creativity, and spilled the contents across the pages bound in front of me.
Soon after that first issue, I began following everything having to do with Martha. She is a savvy business woman first and foremost, which I think is a testament to any woman wanting to make headway in a typically male-dominated business world. Her taste is impeccable, showing me that anything and everything in the world around you can be beautiful and tasteful if you just put a little extra thought into what you do, what you create. I use these lessons often as I try to build my own career and business, together with my partners, Julie & Jane. I know Martha has inspired hundreds of people around the globe, but I needed to throw my praises into the ring as well. Because without her to serve as daily inspiration for both my work and dreams, I wouldn't be where I am today.
I hope you enjoyed everything I shared today. Do you have anyone that touched your life in a seemingly small way? Something that you remember even to this day? Have you ever mentioned it to them? Or thanked them for it? Use one of those cards in your stash, or make a new one, and express your gratitude! And remember to mail it!
Thanks for stopping by and I look forward to sharing more tomorrow.
